Beating Cancer Daily with Saranne Rothberg ~ Stage IV Cancer Survivor

In today's episode, Saranne takes us back to 1999 and shares the story of her first chemo treatment. She explains why she decided to throw a chemo comedy party and how it became a celebration of life amidst the challenges of cancer. Saranne discusses Norman Cousins's influence and research on the mind-body connection, highlighting the importance of infusing joy and laughter into the healing journey. Whether a small gathering or a larger event, Saranne encourages listeners to consider incorporating comedy and positivity into their treatment experiences.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 140 countries across 7 continents and features over 400 original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Saranne shares her initial experience of laughing and crying the night she was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer. The concept of "tumor humor" is introduced, highlighting the absurdities of the cancer experience. Saranne recounts the creation of the Comedy Cures Foundation directly from her chemo chair. The 31-Day Tumor Humor Challenge, where Saranne wrote 31 days of cancer-related comedy, is discussed. A humorous anecdote about considering wearing a skeleton costume to an X-ray appointment is shared. Saranne emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of humor during the cancer journey. Listeners are encouraged to share their own "tumor humor" via the Comedy Cures laugh line. The significance and impact of spreading laughter during tough times, particularly in the battle against cancer, are highlighted.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 148 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted

by Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes back Jacqui Bryan, a leading expert in functional medicine, nutrition, and whole health, to unpack the surprising world of antinutrients in foods. While many associate antinutrients with negatives like reduced nutrient absorption, Jacqui explains their protective role in plants and how they can actually be beneficial when prepared thoughtfully. Listeners will discover practical strategies to get the best nutrition from foods like beans, nuts, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables, while understanding which preparation methods best support health, especially for people managing cancer, anemia, or digestive issues.

Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, registered nurse, and functional medicine expert. With years of experience guiding clients, many of whom face complex health challenges like Stage IV cancer, Jacqui brings a personalized, science-based approach to food and wellness. Her compassionate coaching helps individuals navigate dietary choices tailored for optimal health, immune support, and improved quality of life.

"One of my favorite things to do with people is keep a food and symptom journal...this will give us loads of information in working together so that we can find a solution that will help individuals." ~Jacqui



Today on Beating Cancer Daily:

·      Antinutrients are natural plant compounds that serve as protection for the plant and only become a concern for human health in specific cases

·      Proper preparation, soaking, sprouting, fermenting, or cooking can reduce antinutrient content and make foods easier to digest and more nutritious

·      Some antinutrients, like tannins, can actually provide health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol

·      Those with specific health conditions, like anemia, osteoporosis, kidney stones, or thyroid disorders, should pay closer attention to antinutrient intake and food preparation methods

·      Pairing iron-rich plant foods with vitamin C sources, such as citrus or peppers, can improve iron absorption from plant sources

·      Keeping a personalized food and symptom journal helps identify which foods may cause issues and guides dietary adjustments

Cruciferous vegetables offer powerful anti-cancer benefits, but should be cooked if there's a thyroid condition or digestive sensitivity

·      Moderation and diversity in food choices, as well as listening to your body, are crucial; nutrition should never be all-or-nothing

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 148 countries across 7 continents 

and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by 

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review. 

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne discusses her journey of finding humor amidst the challenges of her Stage IV cancer diagnosis. Through her Tumor Humor Challenge, she seeks to inspire listeners by demonstrating how to uncover humor in their own cancer experiences. Saranne shares specific stories from her journey as a patient, survivor, and caretaker, emphasizing the vital role that laughter has played in her healing process. Her unique approach combines traditional medical treatments with complementary practices, offering a multidimensional perspective on cancer care.

2025 to 2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025 & 2026,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 148 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted

by Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne brings back comedian Missy Hall, a Stage IV cancer survivor, to discuss her journey through cancer survivorship and the challenges of navigating life in the "new normal." Missy shares her recent experience as a caregiver when her husband faced a medical emergency, highlighting the unique dynamics that arise when the roles reverse. They delve into the importance of being present and advocating for oneself in the healthcare system while exploring how Missy continues to find humor and resilience amid her health challenges. Tune in for an insightful and heartfelt conversation.

2025 to 2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025 & 2026,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 148 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted

by Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne explores the intricate process of healing past emotional wounds while managing a cancer diagnosis. Drawing from her own life and the experiences of others, she shares a transformative quote and practical steps that all focus on redirecting one’s energy from pain to growth. Saranne candidly discusses how identifying and addressing unresolved hurts can be crucial in building the strength needed for the logistical and emotional challenges of cancer, particularly Stage IV.

2025 to 2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025 & 2026,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 148 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne shares a deeply personal and transformative breathing exercise she has used as a powerful tool in her journey of beating Stage IV cancer for 30 years. Saranne introduces listeners to a simple yet impactful strategy combining visualization and breathwork, which has helped her through surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy treatments over the decades. This practice is designed to help release fear and disease while inviting love and light, aiming to reduce anxiety and depression and enhance overall well-being.

2025 to 2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025 & 2026,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 144 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne addresses a profoundly challenging moment in the cancer journey: the immediate aftermath of diagnosis. Sharing her wisdom drawn from three decades of living with Stage IV cancer, Saranne offers comforting guidance and actionable advice for newly diagnosed patients and their loved ones. She reflects on her own experiences and recounts stories of helping others envision a life beyond cancer, emphasizing the importance of having a strategic plan and a supportive team during this critical time.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 148 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne explores the transformative power of self-celebration and micro-celebrations in the journey of battling Stage IV cancer. Saranne reveals her unique approach, inspired by the research of BJ Fogg from Stanford, which involves breaking down treatment milestones into small, joyful moments. By learning to be our own cheerleaders and celebrating every win, no matter how small, Saranne encourages listeners to foster confidence, hope, and resilience amidst their treatment.

2025 to 2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025 & 2026,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 144 countries across 7 continents and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes back functional medicine expert Jacqui Bryan for a fresh look at the big debate around raw versus cooked vegetables and their true benefits for immunity, digestion, and overall health, especially during and after cancer treatment.

Saranne and Jacqui uncover the surprising ways that cooking methods can affect the nutritional power of everyday vegetables, from boosting lycopene in tomatoes to improving iron absorption in spinach. Through laughter, memorable vegetable puns, and clear nutrition strategies, this episode offers hope, practical advice, and unexpected wisdom for anyone eager to get the most out of every meal, whether they're dealing with Stage IV cancer, supporting a loved one, or simply trying to stay well.

Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, RN, whole health educator, certified health coach, and a leader in functional medicine. With extensive experience guiding cancer patients and survivors, Jacqui's integrative approach supports immunity, reduces disease risk, and helps transform lives. Her expertise, conveyed through relatable stories and evidence-based recommendations, has resonated with listeners worldwide in over 120 episodes.

"Your immune system is made up of these nutrients, and we know that nutrition is one of the most beneficial things we can do for our body with or without cancer." ~Jacqui Bryan

Today on Beating Cancer Daily:

·     Cooked tomatoes have reduced vitamin C but increased lycopene, offering greater anti-cancer and heart health benefits

·     Lightly cooking carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes increases the availability of beta carotene and vitamin A, key for immunity and vision

·     Cooking spinach or kale enhances iron absorption by breaking down oxalates that inhibit mineral uptake

·     Mushrooms and asparagus provide more antioxidants and essential nutrients when cooked rather than raw, with cooking also reducing potential toxins

·     Boiling vegetables leads to the greatest nutrient loss, while steaming and roasting best preserve vitamins and flavor

·     Those with low iron, immunity issues, or in active chemotherapy may benefit more from cooked vegetables due to improved safety and nutrient absorption

·     Washing and preparing vegetables carefully is crucial for those with compromised immunity to avoid foodborne illness

·     Deciding between raw and cooked vegetables should be based on nutritional goals, digestion ease, and specific health needs, not broad “raw is always better” myths

Resources Mentioned:

·     Environmental Working Group – Dirty Dozen List: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/

·     Jacqui Bryan’s website: https://www.jacquibryan.com/

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 140 countries across 7 continents and features over 400 original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne