Beating Cancer Daily with Saranne Rothberg ~ Stage IV Cancer Survivor

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

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne shares her journey of battling Stage IV cancer for over two decades and how this experience reshaped her understanding of seeking help. Saranne discusses the significant challenges and transformations of learning to ask for and accept assistance. She introduces the concept of a "cancer delegation list" and provides a step-by-step guide to help those in need prioritize their tasks and seek support effectively. Saranne emphasizes the importance of focusing energy on healing and building a support system during cancer 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

In this episode, Saranne and Missy Hall dive into a hilarious and unexpected conversation that leads to a spontaneous decision to record another episode. Missy, a comedian and recent cancer survivor, shares her unique perspective on life and comedy and marvels at Saranne’s willingness to help others, even if it means moving furniture late at night. Join them as they explore the boundaries of comedy, the power of laughter, and the unexpected twists and turns of life.

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 shares her remarkable journey of using humor as a powerful coping tool during her battle with Stage IV cancer. Saranne recalls her early experiences with comedy, from watching Jackie Mason as a child to producing comedy shows for the Comedy Cures Foundation. She introduces the concept of "tumor humor," encouraging listeners to find laughter amidst their cancer treatment and challenges.

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

In today's episode, Saranne, the founder of the Comedy Cures Foundation, shares the incredible benefits of connecting with older individuals during her cancer journey. She highlights the wisdom and support she gained from cancer survivors who have been through rigorous battles or have lived with cancer for decades. Saranne encourages listeners to seek out these "wisdom elders" who can provide valuable insights, advice, and even a dose of humor. Join her as she emphasizes the importance of building relationships with cancer elders and the valuable lessons they can teach us.

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 guides listeners through a nostalgic journey back to their childhoods, encouraging them to remember and engage in their favorite childhood games and activities as a therapeutic way to transcend the stress and challenges of living with cancer. Drawing from her own experience and joy in playful activities, Saranne underlines the importance of rekindling childlike joy to foster a healing environment. She offers practical steps for listeners to rediscover forgotten sources of happiness and to incorporate play into their daily routines.

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

Reflecting on a chance encounter with a stranger, she reveals her philosophy of seeing her cup not as half empty or half full but as overfloweth. This mindset, rooted in faith and resilience, has been crucial in her extraordinary journey through numerous treatments and setbacks, propelling her to beat the odds for over 30 years. By practicing gratitude, mindfulness, and positivity daily, Saranne believes anyone can cultivate a perspective that not only aids in overcoming cancer but enriches life itself.

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 certified nutrition specialist Jacqui Bryan for a focused exploration on the overlooked vitamin K. Together, they unpack the distinct roles and sources of vitamin K1 and K2, share practical approaches for getting these nutrients through a variety of foods, and discuss vitamin K’s importance in bone health, blood clotting, and even cancer prevention. The episode clears up supplement myths, highlights potential medication interactions, and arms listeners, especially those facing cancer or osteoporosis, with empowering, food-first strategies.

Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, certified health coach, registered nurse, and functional medicine expert. With expertise in nutrition and integrative health, she offers clarity and actionable advice to those navigating complex health journeys. 

"You can sneak it into your diet in different ways...have diversity, have a wide variety of foods so that we're assured to get many of those nutrients that are so important for good health."

~Jacqui Bryan

Today on Beating Cancer Daily:

·      Vitamin K comes in two main forms: K1, found in leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, and K2, present in some animal and fermented foods

·      It is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it needs dietary fat for proper absorption and can accumulate in the body

·      Vitamin K is crucial for healthy blood clotting and bone strength, which is especially important for those with osteoporosis or recovering from cancer treatments

·      Consuming vitamin K-rich foods can reduce the risk of bone fractures, particularly in older adults and those weakened by therapies

·      There are significant interactions between vitamin K intake and blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin and Coumadin, requiring careful management

·      Fermented foods like natto and select cheeses are highlighted as potent K2 sources for those who consume animal-derived foods

·      A diverse diet including vegetables, dairy, and poultry can provide the recommended daily allowances of vitamin K for both men and women

·      Supplements are often unnecessary for those who meet their needs with whole foods: spinach, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts can easily exceed daily requirements

Guest Contact Information:

Jacqui Bryan:

Website: 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

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne embarks on a humorous reflection of her journey from the chemotherapy chair to a celebrated published poet. Sharing a deeply personal poem she wrote during her Stage IV cancer treatment, Saranne recounts the transformative power of laughter and boldness in the face of uncertainty. Reminiscing about the unexpected success of her poem, "Share a Cancer Laugh with Me," Saranne invites listeners to embrace bravery and joy, even in the most challenging times.

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

In this episode, Saranne and Missy Hall dive into a hilarious and unexpected conversation that leads to a spontaneous decision to record another episode. Missy, a comedian and recent cancer survivor, shares her unique perspective on life and comedy and marvels at Saranne’s willingness to help others, even if it means moving furniture late at night. Join them as they explore the boundaries of comedy, the power of laughter, and the unexpected twists and turns of life.

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