Hormone therapy is one of the most important—and challenging—parts of life after breast cancer. In this episode of Besties with Breasties, hosts Beth Wilmes and Jess Anderson welcome Dr. Katherine Clifton, board-certified medical oncologist at Washington University School of Medicine, for an in-depth conversation on hormone suppression therapy and survivorship.

This episode breaks down what breast cancer survivors need to know about Tamoxifen vs. Aromatase Inhibitors, how long hormone therapy should last (five years vs. ten years), and why treatment adherence is one of the biggest challenges in breast cancer care today. Dr. Clifton explains how personalized medicine—including tools like the Breast Cancer Index—is helping patients and providers make more informed, individualized decisions.

The conversation also addresses real-world side effects such as joint pain, cardiovascular health concerns, and quality-of-life issues that often lead patients to stop treatment early. With emerging research on lower-dose Tamoxifen and minimal residual disease testing, this episode offers both education and hope for the future of breast cancer treatment.

Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode provides practical insights and encouragement for navigating hormone therapy after breast cancer.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Hormone therapy can reduce breast cancer recurrence risk by approximately 50%
2. Tamoxifen is typically used for premenopausal patients, while Aromatase Inhibitors are for postmenopausal patients
3. Side effects such as joint pain and cardiovascular risks require proactive management
4. 20–50% of patients discontinue hormone therapy early due to side effects
5. Research into lower-dose Tamoxifen may improve tolerability
6. Minimal residual disease testing may lead to more personalized treatment approaches

Learn more from Dr. Katherine Clifton, MD: https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/clifton-katherine/

Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Faith through Fire
2. Washington University School of Medicine
3. Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

In this inspiring episode of Besties with Breasties, Beth and co-host sit down with Michelle, a young mom who faced the shock of an early breast cancer diagnosis and the unexpected emotional toll of a later recurrence. Michelle opens up about the fears, identity shifts, and challenges of navigating motherhood through treatment—sharing what it’s really like to balance caring for your children while trying to care for yourself.

With honesty and grace, Michelle discusses the heartache of losing breastfeeding, preparing for surgery, and processing the complex emotions that follow a recurrence. Her story highlights not just the difficulty of the journey, but also the strength that emerges when women lean on community, mental health support, and faith.

Throughout the conversation, the hosts explore how connection, vulnerability, and shared experience can transform the healing process. Michelle credits Faith Through Fire with giving her both meaningful support and a powerful sense of belonging—a reminder that no one has to walk this road alone.

As the episode closes, Michelle leaves listeners with a message of hope: even in the hardest seasons, light breaks through. Her story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the healing that happens when women lift one another up.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Breast cancer deeply impacts young moms emotionally and physically

• Community and faith play a crucial role in healing

• Motherhood during treatment requires extraordinary resilience

• Recurrence can spark fear, grief, and confusion—but support helps

• Therapy and support groups strengthen mental well-being

• Vulnerability with children fosters strength and connection

Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Faith Through Fire
• Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

In this powerful episode, hosts Beth Wilmes and Jess open up about one of the most common—and least discussed—challenges breast cancer survivors face: the fear of recurrence. From the emotional weight of scanxiety to the subtle ways anxiety influences daily life, they break down what this fear really looks like and why it’s so normal.

Beth and Jess share their personal stories, discuss how recurrence anxiety shows up in thoughts and behavior, and offer practical coping strategies, including distraction techniques, mindfulness, and breathwork. They explore the importance of community support, survivorship mentorship, and mental health advocacy—reminding listeners they never have to walk this journey alone.

Whether you're a breast cancer survivor, caregiver, or someone passionate about women’s health and wellness, this episode provides encouragement, validation, and tools for emotional resilience.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why fear of recurrence is so common among breast cancer survivors
• How anxiety can affect mental health, relationships, and daily routines
• Practical strategies—mindfulness, breathwork, and peer support—to manage fear
• The power of community, survivorship programs, and mentorship
• How self-advocacy and structured follow-up care support emotional well-being

Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Faith Through Fire
• Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

In this deeply moving episode of Besties with Breasties, hosts Beth, Jamie and special guest Pastor Patti Kirkland, explore one of life’s most profound topics — death, faith, and the Christian belief in eternal life.

With honesty and compassion, Pastor Patti shares how her personal experiences with grief and loss have shaped her understanding of hope, eternity, and God’s promises. Together, the group unpacks the fear surrounding mortality and reveals how faith can transform that fear into peace, purpose, and perspective.

This episode speaks to breast cancer survivors, caregivers, and anyone walking through hardship or uncertainty — reminding you that you are never alone, and that there is strength in faith and community.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How faith reframes our understanding of death as a transition, not an end.
• The Christian perspective on eternal life and how it provides comfort in times of fear.
• Pastor Patti Kirkland’s story of loss and resilience through faith.
• Why community support is essential when facing grief or uncertainty.
• How to navigate doubt and spiritual struggle with grace.
• Practical ways to nurture your faith and emotional well-being during difficult times.

Connect with Pastor Patti Kirkland:

• The Crossing Church- St. Peters, MO https://thecrossing.church/about
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattikirkland/

Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Faith Through Fire
• Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

What does it really mean to take personal responsibility after cancer — and how do you do it without guilt or shame?

In this honest and empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Beth and Jessica, unpack what “taking control” looks like after treatment.

They dive into how trauma shapes us, what we can and can’t control, and how mindset, discipline, and grace work together in healing. It’s a conversation about self-compassion, empowerment, and finding peace after the storm.

You’ll hear:

• The real meaning of personal responsibility after cancer
• How to honor trauma without staying stuck in it
• Daily choices that help you rebuild confidence and joy
• Letting go of guilt, shame, and toxic self-blame
• Why you don’t need to do it all to take your power back

If you’re a breast cancer survivor, caregiver, or anyone navigating life after trauma — this episode will help you take your power back.

Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Faith Through Fire
• Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

Weight Gain After Breast Cancer: Hormones, GLP-1s, & Real Talk on Survivorship

Weight gain after breast cancer is real — and rarely talked about. In this honest and empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Beth Wilmes and Jamie Grieshaber break down the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that make post-treatment weight management so challenging.

They share personal stories, expert insights, and practical tips to help survivors navigate hormones, menopause, GLP-1 medications, and emotional health — all with honesty, humor, and heart.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

-The link between weight, cancer, and survivorship

-How hormones and menopause affect weight gain

-The truth about GLP-1 medications and diet trends

-Tips for sustainable, self-compassionate weight management

💗 Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers hope, validation, and tools to thrive after breast cancer.

🔗 Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Women’s Health Unlocked: Cycle Syncing & Nervous System Balance

Welcome to another empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes and Jamie Grieshaber are joined by fitness expert and functional nutritionist Natali Kummer to dive deep into cycle syncing, nervous system regulation, and holistic women’s wellness.

In this conversation, you’ll learn how to:

-Sync your workouts with your menstrual cycle to support energy, strength, and recovery.

-Understand the role of the nervous system in women’s health and how to regulate stress for better balance.

-Shift your mindset around fitness and wellness to embrace your body’s natural rhythms.

-Apply functional nutrition strategies for hormone health and self-care.

Whether you’re a breast cancer survivor, a busy mom, or simply looking to optimize your health, this episode is full of actionable tips on fitness, mindset, and holistic women’s wellness practices.

00:00 – Introduction: Meet Your Hosts

00:17 – About Faith Through Fire & Podcast Mission

00:25 – Today’s Topic: Cycle Syncing & Exercise

00:57 – Guest Introduction: Natalie Kummer

01:23 – Natalie’s Approach: Beyond Fitness

01:39 – What is Cycle Syncing?

01:49 – Nervous System Regulation in Women’s Wellness

02:05 – Sponsor: Survivorship Bootcamp

03:21 – The Role of the Nervous System in Fitness

03:51 – Why Women Feel Stuck Despite Effort

04:50 – Challenge vs. Threat: Mindset Shifts

06:04 – Positive vs. Negative Stress

07:13 – The Power of Being Present During Exercise

09:10 – Growth Through Discomfort

10:55 – Introduction to Menstrual Cycle Syncing

16:32 – The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

19:50 – How to Adjust Workouts for Each Phase

22:04 – Using Cycle Syncing for Self-Care

22:57 – Boobs in the News (Fun Segment)

25:58 – Making Wellness Manageable: Where to Start

27:05 – Building Habits & Consistency

28:27 – Sponsor: Thrivent Financial

28:58 – Where to Find Natali Kummer

29:19 – Closing Thoughts & Support Links

Connect with Natali Kummer:

Website: https://www.natalikummer.com

Instagram: @nkummer

Empowered Movement: Exercise, Menopause, and Thriving After Cancer

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes(author, nonprofit founder) and Jamie Grieshaber, are joined by special guest Leeny Hoffman, a certified menopause fitness and health coach. Together, they explore how women can use movement to feel stronger, more energized, and more empowered during menopause and beyond.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

-How to shift your mindset around exercise in midlife

-The science and myths of fitness during menopause

-Practical tips for building a sustainable, joyful movement routine

-The importance of grace, flexibility, and functional fitness as you age

Whether you’re a breast cancer survivor, navigating menopause, or simply looking to thrive in your health journey, this episode is packed with compassionate, science-informed advice and real-life inspiration.

00:00 – Introduction: Meet the Hosts & Mission

02:00 – Today’s Topic: Exercise and Menopause

03:30 – Guest Introduction: Leeny Hoffman’s Story

06:00 – Why Specialize in Menopause Fitness?

09:00 – Myths & Mistakes: Cardio, Weight Lifting, and Recovery

14:00 – Hormones, Mindset, and Listening to Your Body

18:00 – The Role of Grace and Flexibility

21:00 – Functional Fitness & Why It Matters

24:00 – Building a Routine That Sticks

27:00 – Boobs in the News: Miniature Dachshund Adventure

31:00 – Final Thoughts: Advice for Women Starting or Returning to Exercise

34:00 – Where to Find Leeny Hoffman

35:00 – Outro & Support the Show

Connect with Leeny Hoffman:

Instagram: Leenyhoff

https://www.instagram.com/leenyhoff/?hl=es

Facebook: Leeny Hoffman Wellness

https://www.facebook.com/leenyhoffmannwellness/?_rdr

Website:Leeny Hoffman Wellness

https://www.leenyhoffmannwellness.com/

Menopause Made Manageable: Small Tweaks for Massive Impact

Welcome to another episode of Besties with Breasties Podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes (author, speaker, and founder of Faith Through Fire) and Jamie Grieshaber, dive deep into the realities of menopause, midlife, and thriving after breast cancer. This episode features Jen Schroer, RN, NBC-HWC, a board-certified nurse coach and founder of Clarity Health and Wellness Coaching. After overcoming burnout and hormonal shifts in her 40s, Jen now empowers women to reconnect with their bodies, release perfectionism, and create lasting lifestyle changes.

0:00 – Welcome & Introductions

00:45 – Snake Stories & Menopause Fears

01:34 – Introducing Jen Schroer, RN

02:55 – Jen’s Menopause Journey

06:34 – Common & Overlooked Menopause Symptoms

10:45 – Hormones 101: What’s Happening in Your Body?

16:45 – Emotional Health & The U-Curve of Happiness

21:19 – Boobs in the News

23:44 – Making Menopause Manageable: Little Tweaks, Not Overhauls

28:21 – Coaching with Jen: How She Helps Women Thrive

32:51 – Redefining Success: It’s Not About the Scale.

36:36 – Sponsor: Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

37:48 – Connect with Jen Schroer

40:45 – Closing & How to Support the Show

Connect with Jen Schroer:

Instagram: @ClarityWellness

Facebook: Clarity Health & Wellness Coaching https://www.facebook.com/people/Clarity-Health-Wellness-Coaching/61565380091577/

Website: claritywellnesscoach.com

YouTube channel: Nurse Coach Duo https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfvXtSxTwK1Qqgxeupoi2kA

Linked in: Jen Schroer https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-schroer-27967a328/

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes and Jamie Grieshaber are joined by special guest Kelly Burke, founder of Career Slay, to discuss the journey of career transformation after a breast cancer diagnosis. Kelly shares her powerful story of being diagnosed at 29 while pregnant, navigating treatment during the pandemic, and ultimately finding new purpose and joy in her work.

Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or simply seeking motivation to make a change, this episode is packed with honest conversation, practical advice, and hope for anyone facing life’s unexpected turns.

00:00 – Welcome & Introductions

00:25 – Mission of Faith Through Fire

00:46 – Meet Co-Host Jamie

01:08 – Young Survival Coalition Conference Recap

01:37 – The Desire for Change After Treatment

01:59 – Introducing Kelly Burke & Career Slay

02:17 – Kelly’s Story: Diagnosis at 29, Pregnancy, and the Pandemic

04:41 – Navigating Treatment and Career at the Same Time

06:12 – Taking Leave and the Relief of Rest

07:38 – Returning to Work: Promotions and New Perspective

09:13 – Beth’s Story: Post-Cancer Career Struggles

10:44 – Permission to Pause and Find Authenticity

11:27 – Burnout, Stress, and Health Warnings

13:15 – The Wake-Up Call: MRI and Tension Headaches

14:54 – Family Priorities and Career Break

16:35 – Planning for Change: Financial and Emotional Prep

17:58 – Launching Career Slay

19:35 – What is Career Slay? Coaching, Podcast, and Speaking

21:47 – Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs

23:15 – Advice: Take One Step at a Time

24:59 – Building Your Personal Board of Directors

26:01 – Final Thoughts: Living with Purpose

26:21 – Where to Find Kelly Burke

26:43 – Closing & How to Support the Podcast

Connect with Kelly Burke:

Website: https://www.careerslay.com/speaking

Social: @CareerSlay