In this mini-episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, hosts El and Shay are joined by Dr. Matthew Ferroni and Dr. Michael Marquardt of Mercy Urology Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Together, they discuss the importance of a team-based approach in prostate cancer treatment.

Dr. Ferroni and Dr. Marquardt highlight how urology and radiation oncology work hand-in-hand with other specialties—including genetics, nutrition, physical therapy, and mental health—to provide patients with comprehensive care. Their insights emphasize how collaboration not only guides men through treatment options like surgery and radiation, but also ensures ongoing support for long-term wellness and survivorship.

Tune in for a focused conversation on how a multidisciplinary team can make a lasting difference in the journey through prostate cancer care.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, hosts El and Shay welcome two distinguished physicians from Mercy Urology Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dr. Matthew Ferroni, a leading urologist specializing in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, and Dr. Michael Marquardt, a radiation oncologist treating prostate, lung, and other cancers, share their expertise on treatment decisions for localized prostate cancer.

Together, Dr. Ferroni and Dr. Marquardt explain the similarities and key differences between radical prostatectomy (surgery) and radiation therapy—two options that offer comparable cure rates but vary in side effects, recovery, and suitability for each patient.

This conversation provides essential insights to help men and their families make informed choices, highlighting the importance of early detection and a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer care.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, we welcome back Ralph Jones, who shares more of his personal journey with prostate cancer and beyond. Having faced multiple cancer diagnoses, Ralph speaks candidly about the challenges of living with cancer and the strength it takes to keep moving forward.

Ralph explains why he chooses to participate in clinical trials and how research has played a life-saving role in his story. From his prostate cancer diagnosis with a PSA score of 600 to other battles he has endured, he highlights the importance of access to trials and how they can change outcomes for patients.

As the C.E.O. of Youth Development Systems Inc., Ralph is not only a leader in education but also a strong voice for cancer awareness and advocacy. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience, the importance of hope, and the role of research in improving cancer care.

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September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and early detection saves lives. In this video, El — a prostate cancer survivor — and his wife Shay share their story and introduce Dr. Adam Murphy of Northwestern Medicine, who explains the warning signs and risk factors men need to know.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, we hear the powerful story of Ralph Jones, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer with a staggering PSA score of 600. Under the care of UI Health in Chicago, Ralph entered clinical trials that helped bring his PSA levels down to nearly zero. His journey highlights the seriousness of prostate cancer, the importance of medical research, and the resilience needed to face such a diagnosis.

Beyond his cancer experience, Ralph is the C.E.O. of Youth Development Systems Inc., where he focuses on improving academic performance through online chess and STEM training. With decades of experience in finance, system design, teaching, and programming, Ralph brings both professional and personal insight into the conversation.

In this episode, Ralph shares the lessons he learned through his prostate cancer journey and the advice he offers to other men about prioritizing their health. His message underscores the importance of PSA testing, early action, and staying informed to take charge of one’s well-being.

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Join us for another impactful episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK as we welcome back Clarence Williamson from Memphis, TN. Clarence is a longtime prostate cancer survivor and tireless advocate who shares how maintaining a positive mindset has been vital in his fight against the disease.

As the co-founder of the Memphis-based support group Man2Man, Clarence has dedicated his life to raising awareness and helping others navigate their prostate cancer journey. Diagnosed at 54, he highlights the life-saving importance of early detection and proactive health measures.

In this episode, Clarence also discusses his work with organizations such as ZERO Prostate Cancer and The PROMISE Registry, underscoring the critical role of PSA testing and community support. His story is a powerful reminder that hope, resilience, and advocacy can make a real difference in living with prostate cancer.

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Join us on PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK as we sit down with Dr. Deville, Associate Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He also serves as the Medical Director of the Johns Hopkins Proton Therapy Center and the Clinical Director and Chair of Sibley Radiation Oncology.

In this episode, Dr. Deville breaks down the latest advancements in radiation oncology for prostate cancer treatment, from cutting-edge proton therapy to modern precision-based methods designed to better target tumors while minimizing side effects. With more than 170 peer-reviewed publications and a career dedicated to advancing cancer care, he provides a clear look into how radiation therapy is evolving to improve patient outcomes.

Beyond the science, Dr. Deville also highlights his passion for Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (HEDI), sharing his role on the ASTRO Council on HEDI and his recent election to the ASTRO Board of Directors.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the future of prostate cancer treatment and how these innovations—and Dr. Deville’s leadership—are shaping a more effective and equitable approach to care.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, Shannon and Tony Mekeel return to share the deeper story of how prostate cancer shaped their marriage. With Tony now in remission, the couple reflects on the emotional highs and lows that came with his diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

They open up about the challenges they faced in intimacy, communication, and daily life, and how these experiences tested — and ultimately strengthened — their bond. Their conversation offers a candid look at the impact of cancer on both partners in a relationship.

Through honesty, humor, and mutual support, Shannon and Tony show that even in the most difficult seasons, love and resilience can prevail. This is a heartfelt discussion for couples navigating life during and after prostate cancer.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, hosts El and Shay sit down with Shannon and Tony Mekeel, a couple navigating the emotional and physical challenges of prostate cancer. Diagnosed in December 2022 with a PSA of 26, Tony’s journey began with urgency—and brought with it the life-altering decisions many families face.

Tony and Shannon open up about choosing brachytherapy radiation and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)—a form of hormone treatment that impacts not just the patient, but the relationship as a whole. They candidly share how these treatments affected their intimacy, communication, and day-to-day lives as a couple.

Shannon, now a published author, discusses her decision to leave her job to support Tony and document their experience. Together, they offer raw, honest insights into what it really means to support your partner through prostate cancer—from diagnosis to treatment and everything in between.

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In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Adam B. Murphy, we continue exploring the realities of Active Surveillance as a prostate cancer strategy. This follow-up episode dives deeper into the nuances of monitoring, patient lifestyle factors, and when a shift to active treatment may be necessary.

Dr. Murphy brings a wealth of expertise as an Associate Professor of Urology and Preventive Medicine at Northwestern Medicine. He continues to address key health disparities in prostate cancer, emphasizing the importance of tailored care for African American, Hispanic, and HIV-positive men, along with the role of biomarkers in disease progression.

This episode offers essential insight for men currently on or considering active surveillance, as well as for their families and caregivers. We break down myths, answer common concerns, and empower listeners to stay proactive and informed.

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