A lifetime in finance taught Bob Tenczar the value of strategy, but retirement showed him the deeper value of service.

Inspired by his mother’s battle with breast cancer, Bob committed himself to giving back through organizations like The Rose and Avance Houston. His passion for helping underserved communities access care has turned volunteering into his life’s second chapter: one defined by purpose, compassion, and impact.

Support The Rose HERE.

Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

1. Key Questions Answered
2. How did Bob Tenczar get involved in nonprofit work and volunteering?
3. What specifically drew Bob to The Rose, and how did he end up joining its board?
4. What was Bob’s professional background before his nonprofit work?
5. Which other nonprofit boards has Bob served on, besides The Rose?
6. Why is serving underserved and lower-income communities important to Bob?
7. Why did Bob feel personally invested in The Rose’s mission?
8. How does Bob reflect on the changes in breast cancer screening practices since his mother’s passing?
9. What does Bob appreciate most about his experience at The Rose?
10. What are some memorable moments or highlights for Bob during his years with The Rose?
11. Why is the mobile program so important, and what challenges does it face?
12. What unique role do patient navigators play at The Rose?
13. Does Bob believe a cure for cancer will ever be found?
14. Where does Bob see the future of The Rose heading?
15. What are Bob’s hopes for his own daughters regarding health and service?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Volunteering with United Way

06:14 United Way Board Fair Highlights

08:10 Mammograms: A Lifesaving Necessity

11:34 Mom's Final Dress Choice

13:47 Health Advocacy and Family Support

18:00 Rose Program's Impactful Moments

21:56 Uninsured Women's Cancer Support

25:43 Future of The Rose

27:26 The Rose: Care and Giving

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A doctor’s choice to walk beside patients through their hardest moments comes from a calling to serve with both skill and heart. Dr. Angela Coscio’s love for people led her from lab research to breast cancer specialization, where she witnesses courage every day. At St. Luke’s, she finds purpose in connecting deeply with patients, guiding them through treatment with compassion and individualized care. Her story reflects teamwork, devotion, and the belief that every medical decision should be a true partnership.

Support The Rose HERE.

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Key Questions Answered

1. Did Dr. Coscio always want to be a doctor?
2. What path did Dr. Coscio take to become a physician?
3. What is the role of an oncologist?
4. How does Dr. Coscio deliver a cancer diagnosis?
5. Why did Dr. Coscio choose oncology as her specialty?
6. What happens at a tumor board?
7. What does being in a comprehensive cancer center like St. Luke’s mean for patients?
8. Are cancer treatment options personalized?
9. How does Dr. Coscio address questions about treatment options, such as chemotherapy vs. hormone therapy?
10. How important is the caregiver's role in cancer treatment and recovery?
11. Does Dr. Coscio encourage second opinions?
12. What advice does Dr. Coscio have for young women facing breast cancer?
13. How does Dr. Coscio support patients in communicating and preparing for doctor appointments?

Timestamped Overview

05:06 Interpreter Self-Doubt in Spanish

07:37 Collaborative Patient Care Discussion

10:24 St. Luke's: Team & Care

16:23 Connections in Cancer Care

19:39 Chemotherapy Decision Based on Science

20:45 Engineering Mindset Meets Oncology

25:08 Key Questions for Cancer Appointments

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A breast cancer diagnosis can become the turning point that empowers someone to take charge of their own care. Kristina Keller’s story shows the strength found in self-research, faith, and collaboration with her medical team while battling Stage IV cancer. She knew her dense breast tissue was an issue and found a problem during a self-exam. The combination inspired her to write the book Touch Your Tatas knowing that one step saved her life. Witty, funny, informative and at times, heartbreaking, this book is one every woman needs to read.

Today, she shares her journey to offer hope and practical advice to others facing the same fight.

Support The Rose HERE.

Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Key Questions Answered

1. How did Kristina discover her breast cancer?
2. What tests did Kristina undergo when she first found the lump?
3. Did Kristina have a family history of breast cancer?
4. How was Kristina’s final diagnosis made?
5. What stage was Kristina’s breast cancer when diagnosed?
6. What was Kristina’s initial treatment plan, and how did it change?
7. Why did Kristina choose fenbendazole as part of her treatment, and did her doctor approve?
8. How did Kristina respond to her treatment regimen?
9. How did Kristina’s faith and support system contribute to her journey?
10. What advice does Kristina offer to others newly diagnosed or facing health challenges?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Importance of Regular Self-Exams

05:43 Empowered Patient-Doctor Partnership

08:26 "Advocating Self-Research in Healthcare"

12:12 "Mastectomy Decision Reflection"

13:55 Deciding on 3D Nipple Tattoos

16:35 Faith's Role in Healing Journey

20:46 Living in the Now

24:20 "Living My Own Funeral"

26:41 Blogging to Streamline Support Conversations

28:43 "Faith and Finding the Right Care"

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Dr. Mahdieh Parizi is a pioneer in women’s healthcare at the VA, and she speaks with Dorothy about the introduction of patient self-scheduling for mammograms and improving patient return rates.

Additionally, Dr. Parizi shares insights on balancing professional and personal responsibilities, advocating for regular mammograms despite mixed recommendations, and overcoming insurance hurdles. With 25,000 registered women veterans and expanded breast imaging clinics, Dr. Parizi highlights ongoing efforts to increase breast cancer screenings and early detection.

Key Questions Answered

1.) What is the patient self-scheduling system and how does it benefit mammogram return rates?

2.) What multifactorial approach is used to improve mammogram return rates?

3. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected late-stage cancer diagnoses?

4.) What are Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) and how do they improve access?

5.) What challenges does the VA healthcare system face in improving breast imaging programs?

6.) What should women advocate for regarding annual mammography starting at age 40?

7.) What role does patient navigation play in improving mammogram follow-ups?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Dr. Parizi innovates VA mammography care for veterans.

04:31 Working at The Rose: Compassionate nonprofit healthcare experience.

07:39 Passionately pioneered women veterans' healthcare program.

12:04 Clinic adapts processes for efficient, comprehensive care.

16:01 Expanding breast imaging for women veterans' outreach.

19:35 Creative strategies increased patient attendance post-decrease.

21:01 Patients self-schedule mammograms; education events aid.

25:53 Balancing motherhood and professional responsibilities' challenges.

28:17 Annual mammography from age 40 saves lives.

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Early brain development shapes not only how a woman thinks and feels but also how she builds relationships and maintains her health throughout life.

Dr. Quianta Moore returns to the share how the idea that the interactions and support children receive, especially from caregivers, form the brain’s architecture. Without consistent nurturing, families may face long-term impacts on confidence and even physical well-being. Her insights drive home the importance of early intervention and strong community support for women and families.

Support The Rose HERE.

Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Key Questions Answered

1. How does early brain development impact people later in life, especially women?
2. What is 'serve and return' and why is it important in childhood development?
3. How do different caregiver responses affect a child’s developing sense of self?
4. Can early life stress affect physical health risks later on?
5. How important is early intervention and support for women during pregnancy and postpartum?
6. Are there other critical developmental windows besides early childhood?
7. Is it possible for adults to heal or change after missing critical developmental windows?
8. How does understanding developmental science help to reduce shame or guilt, especially around mental health?
9. How should professionals communicate developmental risks to parents without causing undue guilt?
10. What local resources and policy initiatives are available in Texas to support mental health and early intervention?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Fostering Childhood Self-Confidence

03:52 Impact of Inconsistent Parenting Environments

07:44 Mitigating Toxic Stress in Adolescents

12:21 Perspectives on Cancer and Mental Health

16:59 Empowering Women, Reducing Stigma

18:05 Local Impact, Systemic Challenges

20:58 Integrated Behavioral Health Solutions

26:06 Restoring Community and Connection

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Samina Farid’s first connection with The Rose showed her the true power of support and the lifesaving results of research. Surrounded by survivors, she found her purpose in advancing new treatments and sharing her story to inspire others. She returns to the podcast to reflect on her journey and champion openness, education, and participation that drive the fight against cancer forward.

Support The Rose HERE.

Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Key Questions Answered

1. What impact did meeting other breast cancer survivors have on Samina?
2. Why does Samina emphasize the importance of research and innovation in cancer treatment?
3. What role do funding and investment play in cancer research and new treatments?
4. How can cancer survivors participate in the advancement of research?
5. What are some ways people can support cancer research if they cannot contribute financially?
6. Why is education important in the fight against breast cancer?
7. What challenges do caregivers face and why do they need more support?
8. How has Samina’s personal and professional background influenced her involvement in cancer innovation?
9. Why is it important for survivors to share their stories and be open about their experiences

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Herceptin's Impact and Research Importance

05:10 "Supporting Cancer Awareness and Survivors"

07:43 Decoding Cancer's Complex Cure

11:54 Speaker Relates Personal Experience

14:56 AI Research Against Cancer

16:38 "Hope for Genetic Advances"

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Shannon Lecoq has spent nearly 30 years fighting cancer, supporting patients, and building partnerships that save lives. Her work with the American Cancer Society and The Rose has led to some surprising stories, unexpected lessons, and a focus on:

• Raising vital funds so that everyone can access breast healthcare
• Navigating patients through their toughest moments, whether insured or uninsured
• Empowering volunteers and communities to make a difference, one event at a time

Listen as Shannon shares what she’s learned about service, leadership, and how to help others.

Key Questions Answered

1. What kind of work did Shannon do at the American Cancer Society?

2. What is Relay for Life and what was Shannon’s involvement with it?

3. How does community involvement play a role in cancer fundraising and support?

4. Is there a difference between working on a national versus a local level within cancer organizations?

5. Why did Shannon choose to dedicate her career to fighting cancer?

6. What does it mean when The Rose says they are “selling saving lives”?

7. Why does it cost so much for The Rose to care for uninsured women?

8. How does The Rose ensure that uninsured patients receive care equal to insured patients?

9. What is patient navigation at The Rose and why is it important?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 "Career Journey: Field Rep to Manager"

05:59 "Community Care Through The Rose"

07:54 Pursuing a Nonprofit Career

09:58 Patient-Centric Care at The Rose

14:47 Costly Operation and Equipment Needs

17:54 Managing Community Health Needs

21:18 Uninsured Patient Breast Cancer Support

23:43 Advocating for Children with Learning Differences

28:29 Donations Fuel Our Mission

30:07 Support Breast Cancer Awareness Locally

Support The Rose HERE.

Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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Samina Farid built her career in oil and gas, founded her own company, and forged ahead in spaces where women are rarely seen. Through it all, she faced cancer twice and found strength that reshaped both her health and her work.

• Breaking barriers as the only woman in the room
• Building success in a male-dominated industry
• Facing cancer two times and turning challenges into purpose

Key Questions Answered

1. How did Samina Farid cope with the challenges of being the only woman in a male-dominated field?

2. How did Samina come to start her own company, and what inspired its mission?

3. What was unique about Merrick Systems, and how did it contribute to the industry?

4. Why did Samina decide to sell her company, and what was that process like?

5.What steps did Samina take after her cancer diagnosis?

6. What did Samina learn about her genetic risk for cancer?

7. How did journaling and self-care practices help Samina during her cancer journey?

8. What message does Samina want to share with other women about health and self-care?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Discovery of Remarkable Women

04:12 Pre-Internet Oil Data Challenges

08:20 Grateful for Mentorship Journey

11:27 "Turbulent Life Changes"

15:44 Cancer Journey and Support

21:23 "Facing Cancer's Uncertainty"

24:12 Genetic Mutation: Cancer Risk Alert

25:44 Pancreatic Tumor and Whipple Surgery

28:49 Prioritize Health: Just Do It

Support The Rose HERE.

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En este episodio, Blanca comparte su conmovedora historia de cómo descubrió que tenía cáncer de mama, su temor inicial en compartir la situación con su familia, y su eventual diagnóstico y tratamiento. A lo largo de su viaje, habla sobre el apoyo incondicional de sus hijas y nietos, la dificultad que enfrentó al recibir quimioterapia, y la importancia de no dejar pasar los chequeos médicos. Blanca enfatiza el valor de la fe, la familia y el acceso a clínicas solidarias como The Rose, que ofrecen tratamientos a personas sin seguro. Su relato no solo motiva, sino que también educa sobre la importancia de la detección temprana y el cuidado personal.

Preguntas clave respondidas en el episodio:

1. ¿Cómo y cuándo se dio cuenta de que tenía una bolita en el seno, y por qué tardó en buscar ayuda médica?
2. ¿Qué papel jugó su familia en todo el proceso, desde el diagnóstico hasta el tratamiento?
3. ¿Qué le permitió superar los momentos más difíciles del tratamiento, incluyendo la quimioterapia y la cirugía?
4. ¿Qué mensaje desea compartir con otras mujeres y hombres de la comunidad hispana sobre la importancia de la detección temprana y el cuidado personal?
5. ¿Cómo cambió su perspectiva sobre la vida después de superar el cáncer y qué desea para el futuro?

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Lisa Helfman is a three-time guest on our show, and with very good reason. Today, the conversation centers on what happens when you bring people together with one goal—public service—and how that idea became real for Lisa through the American Leadership Forum. You’ll hear:

• What the ALF experience is and how it shapes its fellows
• How an idea at a Texans game sparked the Brighter Bites program
• The support that happens when people connect beyond titles or roles

Support The Rose HERE.

Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Key Questions Answered

1. What is the American Leadership Forum (ALF), and how does it work?

2. What is the significance of the ALF Public Service Award?

3. What unique experiences or activities are part of the ALF fellowship?

4. How did being part of ALF impact Lisa Helfman’s personal and professional life?

5. What is Brighter Bites, and how did it get started?

6. How has Brighter Bites grown since its inception?

7. What role did the ALF and its network play in helping Brighter Bites launch and succeed?

8. What is Lisa Helfman’s current role in Brighter Bites and her connection with HEB?

9. What is the “One Good Thing” podcast at HEB, and what is its purpose?

10. Can acts of kindness and community support truly make a difference in people’s lives?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 American Leadership Forum Tribute

05:01 Fostering Community Through Dialogue

07:47 ALF Inspired Personal Transformation

10:59 Lisa's Lifelong Recognition

15:49 Transforming Diets in Low-Income Communities

19:33 Kale Smoothie School Project Beginnings

20:20 Valentine's Day Produce Program Impact

26:40 Patient Navigators: Compassionate Guidance

30:10 Collecting Kindness Stories

31:52 H E B Employee Acts of Kindness

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