PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK™

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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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, Dr. Adam B. Murphy returns to explain the concept of Active Surveillance—a prostate cancer management option focused on close monitoring instead of immediate treatment. It’s a path chosen by many men with low-risk prostate cancer, offering a way to avoid unnecessary procedures while staying safe and informed.

Dr. Murphy is an Associate Professor of Urology and Preventive Medicine at Northwestern Medicine and also serves at Northwestern University and the Jesse Brown VA Hospital. His research focuses on health disparities in prostate cancer, examining the roles of vitamin D deficiency, genetics, and biomarkers, particularly among African American, Hispanic, and HIV-positive men.

Join us as we explore who active surveillance is best suited for, how it’s monitored, and what men need to know when deciding whether it’s the right approach for them. This episode helps bring clarity to a complex option in the fight against prostate cancer.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, hosts El and Shay are joined by Angela Dennison, a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN) who serves as Nutrition Manager at Wellness House. Wellness House is a holistic support organization dedicated to helping cancer patients and their families improve their physical and emotional well-being.

Angela shares her insights on how nutrition and lifestyle choices can play a supportive role alongside medical treatment for prostate cancer. From managing side effects to maintaining strength and energy, she explains how a thoughtful approach to diet can empower individuals during their cancer journey.

Tune in as we discuss practical tips, common misconceptions, and the important connection between healthy nutrition, lifestyle habits, and prostate cancer care. This episode offers guidance and encouragement for those seeking to improve their overall wellness while navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis.

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Join us on PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK as Dr. Donald Vander Griend returns to continue our discussion on prostate cancer research and clinical trials. In this episode, Dr. Vander Griend dives deeper into the advancements being made in prostate cancer research, what current clinical trials are focusing on, and how these studies are paving the way for new prevention and treatment options.

As an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology and Associate Director for Shared Resource at the UI Cancer Center, Dr. Vander Griend brings decades of expertise and a personal passion for prostate cancer research. He explains how clinical trials are structured, what patients can expect when participating, and the importance of research in improving outcomes for men diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Tune in to gain a greater understanding of the role of clinical research in fighting prostate cancer and learn how these efforts are making a real difference in the lives of patients and their families.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, hosts El and Shay are joined by Dr. Donald Vander Griend, an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology and Associate Director for Shared Resource at the UI Cancer Center. Growing up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dr. Vander Griend has a deeply personal connection to his research, as both his father and father-in-law are prostate cancer survivors.

Dr. Vander Griend earned his PhD in Cancer Biology from the University of Chicago and completed his research fellowship at Johns Hopkins University in the Departments of Urology and Oncology. His career is devoted entirely to prostate cancer research, utilizing cutting-edge technology and science to discover new ways to prevent and treat the disease.

In this episode, Dr. Vander Griend shares his expertise on how clinical trials work, their role in advancing prostate cancer treatment, and what patients should consider when exploring research participation. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the science driving the future of prostate cancer care and how clinical research can make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.

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