What if one simple test could give you more time?

In this episode of From Carpools to Chemo, Marisa Peters sits down with Dr. Jordan Karlitz, nationally recognized gastroenterologist and Senior Medical Officer at Exact Sciences, to break down one of the most urgent public health issues today: colorectal cancer.

Despite being one of the most preventable cancers, millions of people are still skipping screening, and the consequences are rising fast, especially in younger adults.

Dr. Karlitz shares what’s really happening behind the data, why screening guidelines changed, and how new non-invasive technologies are making early detection more accessible than ever.

But this conversation goes beyond medicine. It’s about advocacy, awareness, and the life-saving power of speaking up before it’s too late.

If you’ve ever delayed a checkup, ignored symptoms, or assumed “it won’t happen to me,” this episode is your wake-up call.

Key Takeaways

• Colorectal cancer is the #2 cancer killer but is highly preventable with early screening
• Screening should begin at age 45 for average-risk individuals
• Millions remain unscreened, largely due to fear, stigma, and lack of awareness
• Non-invasive tests are increasing access and improving adherence
• Being proactive and advocating for your own health can change outcomes
• Get clarity on colonoscopy vs non-invasive screening options
• Hear a powerful reminder of why early detection literally buys time

Resources and Links

Dr. Jordan Karlitz

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-karlitz-md-facg-agaf-3b3506101/
• https://x.com/jkarlitzmd
• https://som.cuanschutz.edu/Profiles/Faculty/Profile/35786

Marisa Peters

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisapeters777
• https://rss.com/podcasts/beseennetwork/
• https://beseen.care/podcast
• https://gobeseen.substack.com
• https://www.instagram.com/beseen.care
• https://www.youtube.com/@FromCarpoolsToChemo

Disclaimer

This podcast shares personal experiences and advocacy perspectives. It is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms, consult your healthcare provider and request appropriate evaluation.

Imagine knowing you should schedule a preventive screening but putting it off because navigating the healthcare system feels overwhelming.

In this episode of From Carpools to Chemo on The BE SEEN Network, host Marisa Peters speaks with Alex Colavin, co-founder of Threshold Health, about the barriers that prevent people from accessing life-saving cancer screenings. From complicated scheduling systems to psychological avoidance, many people delay care until symptoms become severe.

Alex shares his journey from studying cancer evolution as a scientist to building a company focused on improving access to preventive care. Through Threshold Health’s Beeline service, patients are connected with human care navigators who help simplify the process of scheduling screenings and taking the next step toward early detection. Because we know when scheduling is made easier - more people are seen.

Together, Marisa and Alex discuss why prevention should be easier, how small system changes can dramatically increase screening rates, and why making healthcare more human may be the key to saving lives.

In This Episode

• [01:05] Introduction to Alex Colavin and Threshold Health
• [03:10] Alex’s journey from cancer research to entrepreneurship
• [06:00] Discovering the real barrier to screening: access
• [08:20] How easier scheduling dramatically increases screening rates
• [10:12] The emotional impact of patient stories and late diagnoses
• [12:42] Why do healthcare systems place too much responsibility on patients
• [13:50] How Beeline helps people schedule screenings more easily
• [16:10] Shame, stigma, and delayed preventive care
• [18:38] Banana pancakes, family time, and slowing down
• [21:19] Advice for living more intentionally

Resources and Links

Alex Colavin

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/acolavin
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/beeline-health
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/acolavin

Marisa Peters

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisapeters777
• https://rss.com/podcasts/beseennetwork/
• https://beseen.care/podcast
• https://gobeseen.substack.com
• https://www.instagram.com/beseen.care
• https://www.youtube.com/@FromCarpoolsToChemo

Disclaimer

This podcast shares personal experiences and advocacy perspectives. It is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms, consult your healthcare provider and request appropriate evaluation.

In this poignant episode of From Carpools to Chemo, host Marisa Peters sits down with Dr. George Beauregard, a physician and father, who shares the heart-wrenching journey of his son Patrick's unexpected diagnosis of stage 4 colorectal cancer at just 29 years old. Patrick's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, the fragility of life, and the profound impact cancer has not only on patients but also on their families.

George, both a father and a medical professional, talks about the overwhelming emotions and challenges he faced as he navigated his son’s diagnosis and treatment. As George shares his personal experience with grief, faith, and his role as an advocate for early detection, his message is clear: cancer awareness, especially for young people, is crucial. George’s journey is a testament to the power of turning grief into advocacy and ensuring that the lessons learned from one’s pain can help save others.

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction to George Beauregard
• [02:10] The shock of Patrick’s diagnosis: Stage 4 colorectal cancer at 29
• [03:03] From father to physician: Balancing love and expertise during a medical crisis
• [05:00] The importance of early detection and how young people are affected
• [08:00] Grieving as a father and supporting a family through cancer
• [12:00] Faith, anger, and acceptance: George’s spiritual journey
• [16:00] Raising awareness for early-onset colorectal cancer
• [20:00] Turning grief into advocacy: Patrick’s legacy and the book George wrote
• [24:00] Closing thoughts: The importance of staying present and advocating for better cancer detection

Resources and Links

George Beauregard

• https://www.georgebeauregard.com/
• https://sonehealthcare.com/meet-the-team/george-beauregard-do/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-beauregard-do-24677a40

Marisa Peters

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisapeters777
• https://rss.com/podcasts/beseennetwork/
• https://beseen.care/podcast
• https://gobeseen.substack.com
• https://www.instagram.com/beseen.care
• https://www.youtube.com/@FromCarpoolsToChemo

In this heartfelt episode of Be Seen, host Marisa Peters is joined by Liz Healy, a powerhouse who was living a successful life as a global business executive before her world was turned upside down by a cancer diagnosis. From a skiing accident to learning she had stage four colorectal cancer, Liz’s journey is one of strength, faith, and transforming pain into purpose.

As Liz navigates the challenges of her illness, she shares the impact cancer has had on her view of time, relationships, and the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. Through her candid conversation, Liz discusses the mental and physical battles she faces while staying committed to living a life full of adventure and purpose. From overcoming self-doubt to focusing on her goals, Liz’s perspective on life after diagnosis is nothing short of inspiring.

This episode is a deep dive into resilience, faith, and how even in the darkest of times, there is light in the moments we cherish with the ones we love.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Introduction to Liz Healy
• (01:27) The moment Liz’s life changed: From skiing accident to cancer diagnosis
• (03:00) A journey of discovering stage four cancer and multiple surgeries
• (06:00) Understanding the importance of early detection
• (09:00) Coping with the emotional impact of being a mother with cancer
• (13:00) Music, movement, and the power of staying strong mentally and physically
• (18:00) Liz’s approach to living without fear of death
• (20:00) The role of advocacy and the power of raising awareness
• (24:00) Finding purpose: How cancer has given Liz a new lens on life
• (29:00) Closing thoughts: Embracing each day as a gift

Resources and Links

Liz Healy

• https://www.instagram.com/lizscoots/?hl=en

Marisa Peters

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisapeters777
• https://rss.com/podcasts/beseennetwork/
• https://beseen.care/podcast
• https://gobeseen.substack.com
• https://www.instagram.com/beseen.care
• https://www.youtube.com/@FromCarpoolsToChemo

In this intimate and powerful conversation, Marisa sits down with trauma therapist and Family Room LA founder Ronnie Vehemente to talk about motherhood, self-care, grief, healing, and what it really means to be seen, especially in life’s hardest moments. From facing a cancer diagnosis with three young children to learning how to communicate through play, music, and presence, this episode explores how healing starts at home, and why being honest with ourselves is the first step to showing up for the people we love.

Whether you're a parent, a caregiver, or simply someone carrying a lot, This episode will stick with you.

In this intimate episode, Political Fundraiser and Be Seen Co-Founder David Thau opens up about how months of fatigue, bloating, and breathlessness turned into the last thing he thought could happen to him. He walks us the night everything changed and the effect it had on the rest of his life moving forward. From fanny packs of Chemo, to helping spread the word about young onset colorectal cancer. David shares why it was so important to talk about his situation and the impact he hopes to have with the "Be Seen" movement.

If you have symptoms or a family history don't wait around.

When life throws its hardest curveball, how do you return to yourself? In this raw and powerful episode, Gina Jacobson — a mother, C-suite executive, and cancer survivor — shares how a stage four diagnosis transformed her outlook on life, identity, and work. From learning to ask for help (one star emoji at a time) to redefining what it means to show up authentically in the workplace, Gina opens up about the unexpected connections, the quiet moments of resilience, and the reality of living with uncertainty. Whether you're facing cancer or supporting someone who is, this conversation will leave you thinking about what it really means to be seen.

Director Tony Benna joins From Carpools to Chemo to discuss his Sundance-winning documentary Andre is an Idiot, a raw, humorous, and deeply moving exploration of mortality. The film follows creative visionary Andre Riccardi, who, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, decides to turn his death into art—through comedy. Tony shares the behind-the-scenes journey of capturing Andre’s irreverence, resilience, and humanity on screen, the emotional weight of the project, and how storytelling can shift perspectives on life, loss, and colorectal cancer awareness. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about filmmaking, legacy, and embracing the uncomfortable with humor and heart.

In this powerful episode, Marisa sits down with Dr. Fola May, a leading UCLA professor and health equity advocate, to uncover the alarming rise in colorectal cancer among young adults. They discuss the critical importance of early detection, the barriers marginalized communities face in healthcare, and how to be your own best advocate. With personal stories, expert insights, and actionable steps, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to take control of their health and help drive change.

In this episode, Marisa sits down with Dr. Kimmie Ng, a leading oncologist and founding director of the Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber. They discuss the alarming rise of colorectal cancer in young adults, the latest research on potential causes, and the urgent need for increased awareness and early detection. Dr. Ng shares insights into the unique challenges young patients face, from diagnosis delays to fertility concerns, and highlights the multidisciplinary approach her center takes to support patients holistically. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on the future of cancer prevention, treatment, and advocacy.