Want to know how you can take action in the fight against cancer?

Help the AACR accelerate progress:

- Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at www.AACR.org/Give.

- Share this episode: Help amplify the message that strategic investments and scientific breakthroughs can change the future of cancer care.

- Listen and subscribe: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, and follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting, we spotlight powerful stories of purpose, partnership, and personal experiences that propel action against cancer.

Rodney and Erika McLeod, co-founders of Change Our Future, reflect on their personal cancer journeys and why they’re championing education, youth leadership, and cancer research through their growing partnership with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). NFL veteran and former Philadelphia Eagles safety Rodney McLeod shares how the loss of his grandmother to pancreatic cancer shaped his mission, while Erika opens up about her mother’s survivorship and their deep dedication to uplifting the next generation.

We’re also joined by Stephen Ryan, President and Chairman of the AACR Foundation and longtime supporter of cancer research. Stephen discusses how personal loss became a catalyst for his advocacy and shares key insights about strategic giving, leadership, and the importance of funding early-stage research.

Episode Highlights:

Segment 1: Turning Loss into Purpose

Rodney and Erika McLeod share how their personal connections to cancer inspired the founding of Change Our Future and their commitment to investing in the next generation.

Segment 2: Partnering with the AACR to Inspire Young Scientists

The McLeods speak about their involvement with the AACR’s high school program, empowering students to explore STEM and medical research as pathways to impact.

Segment 3: Building Confidence Beyond the Classroom

Through mentorship, leadership summits, and real-world skills, Change Our Future is equipping underserved youth with tools to succeed in life and career, including in cancer advocacy.

Segment 4: Legacy, Strategy, and the Power of Philanthropy

Stephen Ryan, President and Chairman of the AACR Foundation, discusses how cancer shaped his family’s legacy and how financial stewardship plays a key role in advancing cancer research.

Segment 5: Broadening the Reach of Research

Stephen reflects on the AACR’s reputation, the critical need to fund early-career scientists, and why the cancer research ecosystem must expand to reach more communities and have more potential.

Production Credits:

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guests: Rodney McLeod, Erika McLeod, Stephen Ryan

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, John Matthews, founder of Ride Hard Breathe Easy, and Jack Owens, a University of Notre Dame student, share their deeply personal journeys to fight lung cancer through action, advocacy, and cycling.

Segment 1: A Promise Becomes a Mission

John shares how a promise to his mother led to Ride Hard Breathe Easy and its first cross-country fundraising ride.

Segment 2: A New Generation Joins the Ride

Jack Owens talks about his current 3,600-mile solo ride across the U.S., honoring his grandmother and expanding the organization’s impact.

Segment 3: Meeting Patients Where They Are

They discuss how funding helps lung cancer patients with transportation and essential needs, making treatment possible.

Segment 4: Breaking the Stigma

John addresses the stigma around lung cancer and the importance of educating the public about its realities.

Segment 5: The Power of Family and Community

Reflections on the role of family, community, and support networks in sustaining the mission.

Segment 6: Training, Dedication, and Lessons Learned

Jack shares his physical and emotional preparation for the ride, and what keeps him going on the toughest days. 

Segment 7: What’s Next for Ride Hard Breathe Easy

If you enjoyed this episode, here is how you can take action to advance cancer research:

• Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give

• Visit https://www.rhbe.org to learn more about Ride Hard Breathe Easy or to make a donation

• Share this episode to raise awareness for cancer patients or with someone you know who might benefit from hearing it

• Subscribe to Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts

Production Credits

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guests: John Matthews and Jack Owens

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

In this emotional episode of Believe in Progress, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the AACR, is joined by Joe Krajewski, a father, runner, and advocate who transformed personal tragedy into a powerful mission. After losing his only child, Will, to osteosarcoma in 2016, Joe began running in Will’s memory as part of “Team Will Power,” raising vital funds and awareness in the fight against cancer.

You will hear a deeply moving conversation, Joe reflects on love, grief, and legacy, and how a father’s promise has fueled ongoing advocacy, research support, and endurance racing. Whether you’ve experienced loss or simply want to be reminded of the strength of the human spirit, this episode will stay with you.

Segment 1: A Father and Son Bonded by Running

Joe shares heartfelt stories about his son Will—their special bond through running, Will’s contagious energy, and their memorable experience running the iconic Hood to Coast relay together.

Segment 2: A Life-Altering Diagnosis

Just weeks after Hood to Coast, Will was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Joe recounts the moment of diagnosis, navigating treatments, and the endurance lessons that carried them through.

Segment 3: Team Will Power and the Legacy of Advocacy

The founding of Team Will Power marked a turning point. Joe explains how the team became a tribute to Will and a platform for cancer awareness, resilience, and generosity.

Segment 4: Grief, Reflection, and the Endurance to Keep Going

Joe opens up about living with grief, finding healing through running and writing, and how Will’s legacy continues to inspire his advocacy and outlook.

Segment 5: The Meaning of Progress

Joe reflects on the power of community, memory, and the AACR’s mission to advance lifesaving science—and what it means to ‘Believe in Progress.’

Take Action: Support Childhood Cancer Research

Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give

Share this episode: Help spread Will’s story and honor the strength of families impacted by childhood cancer.

Subscribe to Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy podcasts.

Production Credits

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guest: Joe Krajewski

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

In this special 50th episode of Believe in Progress, Mitch Stoller, the host of Believe in Progress and Chief Philanthropic Officer of the AACR, sits in the guest chair. Special guest host, Anthony Lopes, Esq., the executive producer of Believe in Progress, leads a reflective and inspiring retrospective conversation with Mitch. They discuss the early days of Believe in Progress, at the AACR, as well as moments that moved and transformed. This episode looks back at the voices, lessons, and stories that have shaped the show’s journey, as well as helped the AACR in the fight against cancer. We also hear about why there is still a lot more work to do in the battle against cancer, and why cancer research is so critical to that mission.

• Mitch shares the origins of Believe in Progress, inspired by a desire to connect science with humanity and foster wider engagement.

• From Lauren Hart to marathon runners to trailblazing scientists, Mitch reflects on the evolution of the show and its mission.

• The guests and moments that left a lasting emotional imprint, including the late Howard Brown and Mitch’s own brother.

• Connecting real-world impact with groundbreaking research—and how storytelling builds bridges between them.

• What surprised Mitch most about guests’ honesty, vulnerability, and the unexpected ripple effects of each conversation.

• From celebrity voices to younger scientists, Mitch shares his hopes and goals for the next 50 episodes and beyond.

• A call to action to subscribe, share, and amplify the message: cancer research saves lives, and everyone has a role to play.

• Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give
• Share this episode: Help amplify the message that strategic investments and scientific breakthroughs can change the future of cancer care
• You can show your support by following or subscribing to our show so that you never miss an episode! You can listen and subscribe to Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Host: Anthony Lopes

Guest: Mitch Stoller

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

This episode of Believe in Progress brings together two individuals leading global investments in cancer research: Dr. Christiana Bardon of MPM BioImpact and Mark Haefele of UBS Global Wealth Management. Dr. Bardon and Mr. Haefele are uniting science, finance, and philanthropy to accelerate breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Their collaboration has led to the Oncology Impact Fund, a revolutionary approach to investing in biotech innovation and expanding philanthropic support for cancer research.

Featured Guests:

Dr. Christiana Bardon – Managing Partner, MPM BioImpact

Dr. Bardon shares how MPM BioImpact has helped launch more than 59 FDA-approved drugs and is driving cutting-edge therapies in oncology. She discusses the philanthropic vision behind the Oncology Impact Fund and the critical role the AACR research grant-giving program plays in supporting young scientists.

Mark Haefele – Chief Investment Officer, UBS Global Wealth Management

Mark discusses UBS’s commitment to purposeful investing, the genesis of the Oncology Impact Fund, and how clients responded to the idea of aligning financial returns with social good through impact investing.

Key Topics:

- The intersection of financial investment and cancer innovation

- How impact investing can fund lifesaving research

- The origins and structure of the Oncology Impact Fund

- Why philanthropy and venture capital must work together

- The role of AACR grants in nurturing the next generation of researchers

Take Action: How You Can Support the Fight Against Cancer

- Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give

- Share this episode: Help amplify the message that strategic investments and scientific breakthroughs can change the future of cancer care

- Listen and subscribe: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to follow/subscribe to our show so that you never miss an episode!

Cancer Research Saves Lives®

Production Credits:

Host: Mitch Stoller

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

This special episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the AACR Annual Meeting 2025 in Chicago, features two compelling conversations that spotlight the human side of cancer research. From confronting rare diagnoses to reshaping clinical trials, our guests reveal how personal experience and advocacy are essential to scientific progress.

Featured Guests

Bill Day – Marketing Executive, Rare Cancer Survivor, AACR Foundation Board Member

Bill shares his journey living with a rare and currently untreatable form of cancer, offering a deeply personal look at the stakes of research funding. As a communications expert and AACR board member, Bill reflects on what’s needed to better engage the public, drive bipartisan support, and sustain the momentum behind cancer science.

Glenn Sykes – Metastatic Kidney Cancer Patient and Research Advocate

Glenn discusses nearly a decade of living with metastatic kidney cancer and his role in reshaping how clinical trials include patient perspectives. He explores the vital role of the patient-oncologist relationship, how education empowers patients, and why researchers must listen more than ever.

Key Themes

·      The power of patient advocacy in shaping cancer research and trial design

·      Personal resilience in the face of rare and advanced cancer diagnoses

·      Why storytelling matters in science communication and policy

·      The AACR Annual Meeting through the eyes of patients and advocates

·      A call for collective, nonpartisan action to protect cancer research funding

Take Action: How You Can Support the Fight Against Cancer

·       Share your story: Your voice matters. Help advance research by sharing your cancer experience with others—and with your elected representatives.

·       Support the AACR: Visit https://AACR.org/Give to donate and fuel the next breakthrough in lifesaving science.

·       Subscribe and share: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen—and help spread hope.

Cancer Research Saves Lives®

Production Credits:

Host: Mitch Stoller

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

This special episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago, features dynamic conversations with researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and student scholars, each contributing uniquely to the fight against cancer. From breakthrough diagnostics to trailblazing health services research, our guests share their stories of science, innovation, and hope.

Featured Guests

Dr. Marija Plodinec – CEO and Co-Founder of ARTIDIS

Dr. Plodinec discusses how her background in physics led to a revolutionary approach in cancer diagnostics through nano-mechanical phenotyping. Learn how ARTIDIS is using atomic force microscopy to analyze tissue stiffness and improve treatment precision for solid tumors.

Dr. Andrew Chapman – Director, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Jefferson Health

A leader in geriatric oncology and care delivery, Dr. Chapman emphasizes the importance of safe, high-quality care for all patients, especially older adults. He also reflects on the AACR’s impact as a convening force for breakthrough science.

Izzy Wiener & Isaac Silverman – Student Researchers, Yeshiva University

These future cancer researchers discuss their work in bioinformatics and molecular biology, presenting posters at the AACR Annual Meeting and sharing how their experiences shape their aspirations in medicine and research.

Aaron Shaykevich – Scholar-in-Training Awardee & Incoming Medical Student, SUNY Upstate

Aaron shares how his research into novel cancer markers is informed by his passion for public health and economics. He emphasizes the role of community insights and AI in future research directions.

Take Action: How You Can Support the Fight Against Cancer

• Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give
• Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and cross-disciplinary thinking can change the future of cancer care
• Listen and Subscribe: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts

Cancer Research Saves Lives®

Production Credits:

• Host: Mitch Stoller
• Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes
• Executive Producer: Michael Leary
• Director: Anthony Lopes
• Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary
• Writer: Anthony Lopes
• Editor: Michael Leary
• Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. 

Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

What happens when deep science meets bold cancer-fighting innovation? 

In this episode of Believe in Progress, we sit down with Dr. Ajit Singh—Managing Director at Artiman Ventures and a Trustee of the AACR Foundation—for a compelling conversation about the technologies and ideas shaping the future of cancer care.

With decades of experience leading both Fortune 500 healthcare companies and high-impact startups, Dr. Singh brings a unique perspective to the intersection of oncology, diagnostics, data science, and global health. From early detection and precision diagnostics to equitable access in underserved communities, his insights offer a powerful look at what’s next in the fight against cancer.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why diagnostics and imaging are essential to improving patient outcomes
• How venture capital is accelerating lifesaving cancer innovations
• What it takes to bring bold ideas to market—and make them accessible globally
• Why Dr. Singh believes in continuous learning, curiosity, and collaboration
• What drives his commitment to the AACR Foundation’s mission

Whether you're a scientist, entrepreneur, clinician, or advocate, this episode will inspire you to think bigger about what's possible in cancer care.

Take Action: How You Can Support Cancer Research

• Learn more about Dr. Ajit Singh’s work: Explore the ventures and companies he supports that are reshaping cancer diagnostics and care
• Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give
• Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and cross-disciplinary thinking can change the future of cancer care
• Subscribe and listen: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts

Cancer Research Saves Lives®

Production Credits:

• Host: Mitch Stoller
• Guest: Dr. Ajit Singh
• Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes
• Executive Producer: Michael Leary
• Director: Anthony Lopes
• Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary
• Writer: Anthony Lopes
• Editor: Michael Leary
• Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. 

Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Believe in Progress, the podcast presented by the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation, host Mitch Stoller sits down with Chef AJ—renowned plant-based chef, bestselling author, and host of the popular YouTube channel "Healthy Living with Chef AJ." With over 47 years of experience in whole-food, plant-based nutrition, Chef AJ has long championed the power of healthy eating.

But in early 2023, her journey took an unexpected turn with a stage 3 lung cancer diagnosis—an experience she publicly shared for the first time in November 2024. Now, Chef AJ is using her platform to speak candidly about cancer, nutrition, and what it means to live with purpose through adversity.

This conversation explores:

• Chef AJ’s transformation from “junk-food vegan” to whole-food advocate

• Her surprising cancer diagnosis and the emotional aftermath

• The evolving role of nutrition in cancer prevention and healing

• How community, mindset, and hope fuel her journey today

• What she’s learned from survivors, support groups, and sharing her platform

Whether you’re navigating cancer, exploring a plant-based lifestyle, or searching for stories of resilience and hope—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Don't forget to visit Chef AJ’s website and YouTube channel, to explore her books, including "Unprocessed" and "The Secrets to Ultimate Weight Loss," and access her “Thriving in the Face of Cancer” video series.

Also see:

Chef AJ's Bestselling book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JC8LHLZ?...

Chef AJ's Amazon store: https://amazon.com/shop/chefaj

Chef AJ's Social Media:

Instagram:   / therealchefaj  

Facebook:   / chef.aj1  

X: https://x.com/therealchefaj

If this episode moved you, here’s how you can make a difference:

• Support cancer research by donating at AACR.org

• Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen

• Share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing Chef AJ’s story

Production Credits:

• Host: Mitch Stoller

• Guest: Chef AJ

• Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

• Executive Producer: Michael Leary

• Associate Producer: Heather Holland

• Director: Anthony Lopes

• Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

• Editor: Michael Leary

This episode is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

How can new approaches to early detection make a difference for children at risk of rare cancers? In this episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Foundation, host Mitch Stoller speaks with Dr. Kris Ann P. Schultz, a leading pediatric oncologist and Scientific Director of Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children's Minnesota.

Dr. Schultz shares her groundbreaking work on DICER1-related cancers and how early diagnosis, surveillance, and collaboration with patients and families are transforming the field of pediatric oncology. From research-driven strategies to personal stories of survival, this episode explores how science and compassion intersect to save lives.

Whether you're a healthcare professional, a caregiver, or an advocate for pediatric cancer research, this episode offers vital insights into how research is reshaping the future of childhood cancer care.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How Dr. Schultz’s personal drive led her into pediatric oncology
• Why DICER1 research is critical for rare childhood cancers
• How early detection and surveillance guidelines are changing lives
• The vital role patients and families play in advancing research
• Why survivorship care is essential for long-term wellness
• How you can help drive progress in pediatric cancer research

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction and Mission Statement
• 00:15 Welcome to Believe in Progress
• 00:56 Meet Dr. Kris Ann Schultz
• 01:26 Dr. Schultz’s Career and Contributions
• 07:41 The Importance of Survivorship Care
• 12:49 Understanding ER One and DICER1
• 16:18 Early Detection and Surveillance Guidelines
• 22:32 Challenges and Future Directions
• 29:10 Conclusion and Wrap-up

Additional information and contact information:

• In 2024, the PPB/DICER1 Registry published updated DICER1 testing and surveillance guidelines in the journal of Clinical Cancer Research. This analysis demonstrated the impact of surveillance in PPB and Sertoli Leydig cell tumor and led to a recommendation for earlier initiation of ovarian surveillance in girls and young women with germline DICER1 variants. 
• READ MORE: https://aacrjournals.org/clincancerres/article/30/24/5681/750430/DICER1-Related-Tumor-Predisposition-Identification
• Early detection efforts for individuals with DICER1-related tumor predisposition include patient and family education and age-specific imaging recommendations. 
• In rare cancers, every journey matters! Individuals impacted by these rare conditions are encouraged to learn more about DICER1 and to consider participation in efforts to advance our understanding of optimal treatments.
• To contact the PPB/DICER1 and OTST Registries, please email [email protected].
• To learn more about the PPB/DICER1 Registry please visit www.ppbregistry.org
• To learn more about the OTST Registry please visit www.otstregistry.org

Learn more and take action:

• Visit aacr.org to donate and support pediatric cancer research
• Subscribe and share this episode to spread awareness
• For more episodes, visit aacr.org/BelieveInProgress

Production Credits:

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guest: Dr. Kris Ann P. Schultz

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Editor: Michael Leary

This episode is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

Cancer Research Saves Lives®

Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.