Test Those Breasts ™️

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered about the other side of the story? The side that is often untold, filled with unspoken emotions and silent sacrifices? Join us for an intimate conversation with two remarkable husbands, Tom Schuster and  Deno Paolini, who share their deeply personal journey of caring for their beloved wives as they endure the trials of cancer.

This is not just about cancer; it's about the profound emotional toll that caring for a loved one can take - the battles with fear, the strength to face uncertainty, and the resilience to keep going. Tom and Deno peel back the veneer to reveal the real, sometimes raw, experience of supporting their partners through the process of chemotherapy. They share their strategies to keep a positive outlook, and how they found joy in the little victories amidst the struggle. Stories like these remind us that every challenge faced is also a step forward, a moment to be celebrated. This conversation is a testament to love, courage, and resilience.

In the journey of cancer caregiving, you are not alone. This episode underscores the significance of connecting with cancer survivor groups and the importance of being a supportive partner. Tom and Deno offer insights into how they navigated this demanding terrain, sharing helpful tips on balancing work, building a support network, and recognizing those small milestones that often get overlooked. It's a conversation that underscores the power of shared experiences and the impact they can have on others. Whether a caregiver, patient, or part of the support network, you'll find inspiration and encouragement in their stories.

Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn! 

Contact Tom:
[email protected] 

Resources: 

Attend local meeting groups for cancer patients/survivors (cancer community clubhouse) AND caregivers (Renown’s own group meetings)

Podcasts of Ajahn Brahm (Buddhist monk in Perth, Australia)

Conversations with family and friends, actual help from family and friends

Contact Deno:
[email protected] 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

Ever wondered what it feels like to navigate through life after losing your mother to breast cancer? It's a journey that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, as demonstrated by our guest, Isha Casagrande. With immense strength and grace, Isha guides us through her journey, sharing intimate details about her mother's battle with breast cancer and how it has shaped her life and advocacy work. 

We'll hear about Isha's mother, her battle, her passing at just 45 years old, and the struggle Isha faced afterward. Isha's story emphasizes the importance of self-care, health advocacy, and a robust support system. We'll explore these themes in depth, including Isha’s insights into her experiences as an image consultant and how it will empower you, and her reflections on her caregiving journey, dealing with her mother's hair loss, will remind us all of the importance of support systems and resources.

Isha’s story is a beacon of hope, strength, and resilience that concludes with a focus on self-confidence, self-care, and support systems. She reflects on her mother's legacy and how she's learned to cope with the trauma of losing her mother. We'll discuss the importance of regular breast exams, self-care, and owning health decisions. Isha’s website, IshaInspired.com, is a treasure trove of resources and provides a platform to further empower and uplift women. So join us in this powerful and poignant conversation, and let's walk this journey together.

Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn! 

Contact Isha:  775-544-7773
Find Isha on Instagram 
Email Isha 

Isha Inspired Website 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, we explore what happens when two passionate advocates from the Nevada Cancer Coalition join forces to raise awareness of breast cancer and provide resources for those affected. Here we get an enlightening discussion filled with personal stories, practical advice, and valuable resources. This episode features special guests Amy Thompson and Kristen Hackbarth, who share their personal connections to cancer and detail the critical work they do at the Nevada Cancer Coalition. We dive into the heart of their mission and the vital resources they provide for those touched by cancer in Nevada.

We also spotlight ThriveNV, a community-based patient navigation program established to fill the gaps in access to resources and support. Hear how this program is offering crucial screenings, resources for those diagnosed and in treatment, and even palliative care. We further discuss their collaboration with Imerman Angels Mentor , a national organization that offers mentorship support for those dealing with cancer. From a robust discussion about the Nevada Cancer Coalition's partnerships to the Paint Nevada Pink campaign, we cover a range of critical initiatives.

Lastly, we delve into the power of early detection and the importance of breast cancer screening. Amy and Kristen debunk myths, promote awareness, and share tips for coping with a cancer diagnosis. We explore various resources and provide practical advice on managing the complexities of a cancer diagnosis. Listen in to learn about these incredible individuals and organizations making a difference in cancer care in Nevada. We promise that you will leave with a new understanding of the importance of early detection and the resources available to those affected by cancer.

Join me, Jamie Vaughn! 

Contact Amy Thompson:775- 451-1670 x 106, Email Amy Thompson 

Contact Kristen Hackbarth: 775-451-1670 x 105, Email Kristen Hackbarth, 

Nevada Cancer Coalition on Facebook, 

Nevada Cancer Coalition on Instagram,

Nevada Cancer Coalition on Link

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, my beautiful "Pink Sister", Amber Planeta shares her breast cancer journey with us and her and her husband's decision to try cold capping for hair preservation and cryotherapy to help with neuropathy. Amber was 36 years old when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 Breast Cancer.  She completed 8 months of active cancer treatment including chemo, surgery, and radiation, and is currently on hormone therapy for 10 years. 

Questions Addressed:

1. Background (Amber's cancer story)
2. How did you learn about cold capping? 
3. What was appealing to you about cold capping? 
4. Neuropathy is a major side effect of taxane chemotherapy.  Talk to us about cryotherapy for your hands and feet. 
5. What were some of the challenges? 
   1. Dry Ice Shortage
6. What tips and resources can you share for those who want to try it?

Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn! 
Contact Amber: 

Email Amber

Instagram: Amber on Instagram 

Resources:

Penguin Cold Caps Website

Penguin Cold Cap Instructions Video

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, my "Pink Sister" Crissy Florio, takes us through her breast cancer journey and how she navigated her way through her diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and healing process. Crissy is incredibly inspiring and has a myriad of ideas for other breast cancer patients/survivors to set the stage to change the narrative of their diagnosis and embrace the idea of using their diagnosis as an opportunity for growth through being more informed, releasing some expectations, calming their nervous system through yoga and meditation, taking care of their mental/emotional being, and inspiring others.
Contact Crissy and mention "Test Those Breasts!" and she will give you a nice treat!
 Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn!
Topics  and Questions Addressed:

-Diagnosis and Treatments
-Cold Capping
-How did you Visualize the type of Journey you wanted? 

-Support and Vulnerability during the C journey- 

• Importance of Support
• How to decide what your Tribe will look like
• Support Groups
• Tuning in to understand how you want to be supported. And being honest about your needs and wants during your journey
• Releasing expectations of how others show up in your journey. You can only control your own thoughts and actions. You cannot control how others show up for you. 

-Quick Breathwork and Meditation (Gives the listeners a GO TO when fear and stress start to take over showing them how to regulate their nervous system) 

-Advice to Listeners

Tap into the Triple P’s- Your Power, Presence, and Peace
Living in the past can bring on depression, while fear of the future can lead to anxiety. Be empowered in the present moment. 

Contact Crissy Florio:
Contact Crissy and mention "Test Those Breasts!" and she will give you a nice treat! 

Website Healing Harmony 
Email Email Crissy Florio
Instagram Follow Crissy on Instagram 

Facebook Follow Crissy on Facebook 

YOUTUBE Flo With Crissy on YouTube  

Resourc

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, my interview with my own reconstructive breast surgeon, Dr. David Cabiling graciously explains what autologous surgery is, in particular, the DIEP Flap surgery, which is what I had in December of 2022.  He explains the difference between autologous surgeries and surgeries that involve implants, recovery time, nipple-sparing, different options for patients, and how autologous surgeries can serve as restorative procedures, which helps tremendously with body image and confidence after a breast cancer diagnosis. I know that my surgery saved my life,  physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Dr. Cabiling is part of an incredible team of professional surgeons and support staff at Center For Restorative Breast Surgery in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is widely regarded as an expert in his field, and he has been published in numerous medical journals and textbooks. Dr. Cabiling has been rated as a Top Performer in Patient Satisfaction among physicians in the nation over the last 2 years.
Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn! 

Resources:

Center For Restorative Breast Surgery

Center For Restorative Breast Surgery on Instagram

 Center For Restorative Breast Surgery on Facebook 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, Kim Lowe, Founder of Empower You, discusses her deep passion for helping to improve how patients are diagnosed and treated for their cancers and how her own mother's challenging health diagnoses led her to incorporate yoga and meditation in her own life to relieve her anxiety and feelings of helplessness. She has taken that experience and passion and currently and generously helps cancer patients and caregivers recover and heal in a more holistic way to find their own peace and regain their physical strength during the challenging times in their lives.
Be sure to find a wonderful 25% discount code in the show notes! 

Questions Discussed:

1. What is it about yoga and meditation that are especially good for people who are living with cancer? 
2. What if someone has been diagnosed with cancer and they have never done yoga before, is it safe for them to start it now?
3. What do you tell people who are reluctant to start yoga because they don’t feel like they are flexible enough, or strong enough to do yoga?
4. What are your thoughts about doing yoga at home vs. in a public studio? 
5. Most people struggle to meditate, do you have any tips for making it easy for someone who is overwhelmed by cancer?

Contact Kim Lowe:

Kim Lowe's Email Address  

I Am Empowered on Instagram

Empowered Cancer Journey on Facebook 

Resources:

We offer many free mind-body resources for people who are living with the challenges of cancer. We never want finances to be a barrier to wellness so all of our programs are already on a “pay what you can model.” In addition to this wonderful offer, if you use the code: TESTTHOSEBREASTS at checkout, you will receive a 25% discount! 

Empowered Cancer Journey Resources - If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or are taking care of a loved one these resources can show you ways to move your body and nourish your body, relax your mind, and bring some relief, all within the comfort of your own home. 

Gryt Health - Patient and caregiver experience com

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo graciously takes us through his journey to become a plastic surgeon and microsurgeon, his thoughts on holistic approaches,  Shared Decision Making (SDM), and the world's first shared decision-making app for breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction, called the Breast Advocate® app. 

Questions Addressed:

1. Can you share what led you to become a plastic surgeon and microsurgeon, and how has that impacted your personal and professional life?
2. Breast surgery for breast cancer patients can be incredibly stressful and quite terrifying. What is your philosophy on incorporating holistic approaches? 
3. What led you to develop the Breast Advocate® app? How did you come to realize the app would be so helpful to others? 
4. What advice do you have for those who have just been diagnosed with breast cancer or a high-risk gene mutation?
5. What advice do you have for those patients who had breast reconstruction that they are not happy with, perhaps because they have implants that do not agree with their mental or physical health? 

Contact Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo:

[email protected]

Dr. C on Instagram 

Resources:

Dr. C's LinkTree 

Breast Advocate® LinkTree 

Breast Advocate® website 

Breast Advocate® on Instagram 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, my "Pink Sister", Zainab Sow graciously takes us through her breast cancer journey, which includes how she was diagnosed, what type, familial genes, genetic testing, donation of breast tissue,  menopause/weight gain, and more! Zainab is an author, acquisition specialist, and humanitarian who is committed to empowering women in the US, Africa, and the Caribbean. When it comes to breast cancer, she wholeheartedly believes that educating women is the key to lowering risks and deaths associated with the disease. A mother of two daughters who also has daughters, she wrote her breast cancer memoir with them in mind. She has also left her prior nonprofit to start another that provides education and necessities to women with breast cancer. 

Questions:

1. Can you share how you found your breast cancer/ what stage/type? 
2. Do you have a family history of breast cancer?
3. Can you share any preliminary information about your upcoming book? 
4. Can you share your knowledge about genetics and breast cancer? Familial Genes
5. Donation of breast tissue
6. Breast Cancer Etiquette/ name the one thing that bothered you the most…
7. Can you share some information about your upcoming non-profit for breast cancer?
8. What are  your thoughts on lowering the age to get mammograms? 
9. What advice do you have for breast cancer patients to help with mental support? (ie. Mona Lisa); Meditation/Positive Affirmations 
10. Side effects of Anastrozole 5 year pill…
11. Why did you choose to get a mastectomy after you had a lumpectomy?Any complications? Any tips to help with recovery? Exercise? Must haves?
12. Menopause and Breast Cancer weight 
13. What’s the best safeguard against breast cancer in your opinion?
14. Share an excerpt from your book

Contact Zainab:

Zainab_HeirToBreastCancer

Resources:

Link to "Heir To Breast Cancer" coming soon! 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

In this episode, registered nurse, Amanda Thomas, who is certified in oncology, takes us through a journey of her knowledge and passion about her experience being a dedicated mindfulness practitioner and how she incorporates that into her own life, the lives of healthcare providers, and patients.  She shares her commitment to serving others with resiliency, mindfulness, and self-care training.  Managing the stresses of life, work, and anxiety is the path that led Amanda to mindfulness practice. Daily she continues to refine her practice through sitting/walking meditation, qigong, yoga, online workshops, and retreats.  Deepening these practices inspired her to share with others and she is currently enrolled in the 2025 cohort of Mindfulness Meditation Certified Teacher Program led by Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach.

Amanda’s mindfulness journey continues to improve her work and personal life fostering strong interpersonal relationships. During her self-care journey, she became connected to a non-profit organization called Vital Hearts. The training she received has been instrumental in supporting her career as an oncology nurse. It has inspired her to lead training for others in hopes of positively impacting them with the tools needed to lead a balanced life personally and professionally.

Questions Asked:

1. Your professional title is Chemotherapy Specialist Infusion Services. Can you share with our audience what that entails?
2. As you are caring for your patients, what is your experience “showing up” for them on a daily basis and how does that impact your life personally and professionally?
3. Mindfulness: One of your main passions is the idea of mindfulness. What is your interpretation of mindfulness, why is it important and how do you incorporate mindfulness into your practice?
4. You are connected to a non-profit out of Colorado. Can you share what that is, how you are involved, and how it impacts our community?
5. What advice do you have for cancer patients as they move through their treatment, recovery, and healing? 
6. What advice do you have for healthcare providers caring for cancer patients as they move through their career? 
7. Can you share what resources you have for us that will be displayed in the show notes?

Contact Amanda Thomas:

[email protected] 

Resources:

 A Pace of Grace: The Virtues of a Sustainable L

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .