Test Those Breasts ™️

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In this powerful episode, Jamie sits down with Gail Menasco, a breast cancer survivor, insurance advocate, and founder of the BRA Society, to unpack how one woman’s relentless fight for access to care led to real legislative change.

Gail shares her deeply personal story of being diagnosed at 38 and navigating a broken insurance system that nearly denied her the muscle-sparing surgery she needed. Instead of giving up, she researched surgical options, challenged insurance denials, switched jobs for better coverage, and ultimately pushed through Senate Bill 1137 in Oregon to expand access to breast reconstruction procedures for others like her.

📌 What You’ll Learn

• Why many insurance plans are quietly switching from PPOs to EPOs—and what that means for access
• What led Gail to write a bill and how she got it passed unanimously in the Oregon legislature
• The hidden cost of “ghost networks” and the real risk of balance billing
• The rise of the BRA Society and how it’s helping patients nationwide
• A breakdown of Senate Bill 1137—and what it could mean for future federal legislation
• How you can take action in your own state

💪 Call to Action

✔️ Visit brasociety.org for resources, advocacy tools, and grant info
📞 Contact your state and federal representatives, your story matters
💸 Donate to the BRA Society to expand grants for women needing out-of-area care
🗣️ Share your story, because stories fuel change

🎧 Also Mentioned

• Center for Restorative Breast Surgery (New Orleans)
• DIEP Flap vs. MS-TRAM vs. Apex technique
• The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA)

Previous Interview with Gail 

Interview w/ Gail on Central Oregon Daily News 

Interview with Dr. Elizabeth Potter 

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:
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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 .

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Imagine receiving a life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer at the age of 37. Gail Menasco, owner of "Menasco Consulting" and a fierce advocate for healthcare reform and health equity, shares her compelling journey from being an adventurous mom and business owner to navigating the shockwaves of a cancer diagnosis. Through her personal story, Gail underscores the critical importance of regular self-checks and the whirlwind that follows the initial discovery of a lump. She opens up about her mission to support others through the maze of information, insurance hurdles, and treatment decisions, offering invaluable insights for anyone facing similar challenges.

We delve into the intricate case of a 38-year-old woman diagnosed with high-grade DCIS, shedding light on the unique difficulties posed by being ER/PR negative. This narrative takes us through the emotional and logistical hurdles of deciding between mastectomy and radiation, and the painstaking search for a skilled surgeon for DIEP flap reconstruction. Her story is a testament to resilience and determination, highlighting the frustrating experiences with local surgeons and the eventual decision to seek out-of-state options. This episode provides a raw look at the arduous path of dealing with a rare and aggressive form of DCIS.

Gail's journey through the complexities of health insurance and employment changes reveals her strategic thinking and fierce advocacy.

Contact Gail:
Menasco Consulting 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 .

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Breast cancer is a challenging journey shaped by personal stories and community support. Breast cancer survivor, Andrea Moulding 's story illustrates the power of humor in coping with diagnosis and survivorship while creating awareness and connection through her creative projects.

• Andrea shares her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey
• Discussion on the importance of humor in survivorship
• Role of community in healing and advocacy
• Andrea's creative outlets: books and podcast (Stay On The Bus  and Get It Off Your Chest
• Insights on living with lymphedema and osteopenia 
• Launching new initiatives for breast cancer support 

Contact & Resources: 

[email protected] 

Email for podcast [email protected]

Stay On The Bus Website

Stay On The Bus YouTube

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 .

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Kerry Kelly's journey from breast cancer diagnosis at age 29 through treatment to survivorship captures the essence of resilience and community support. She shares valuable insights on early detection, personal transformation, and the importance of connection during challenging times.

• Kerry’s lump discovery during pregnancy
• Transition from diagnosis to treatment
• Coping strategies during isolation
• Emotional toll of losing hair
• Challenges faced post-treatment
• Importance of community support and groups, such as Evoke Warriors and Cancer Community Clubhouse  

• Early detection as a key to survival 
• Kerry’s role in advocating for healthcare resources 
• The transformative power of sharing stories 
• Call for action: Connect and engage with communities

Contact Kerry:

[email protected] 

IG: kerry_ann_kelly 

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

This episode focuses on empowerment through holistic healing in the face of breast cancer. Jamie Vaughn and Crissy Florio discuss personal journeys, the importance of preventative health, emotional recovery, and the role of community support, as well as the launch of Crissy's book, "For the Love of Jugs."  

• Emphasis on the importance of holistic healing  
• Discussion of preventative care before a breast cancer diagnosis  
• Importance of emotional and energetic healing during recovery  
• Role of yoga and personal practices in healing  
• Navigating support networks and community resources  
• Launch of C
rissy’s book, aimed at empowering women on their cancer journeys  
• Encouragement for women to reclaim their power and trust their intuition during treatment  
• Strategies for caregivers and support systems to assist loved ones through their journeys

Contact Crissy Florio:

Website Healing Harmony  

Email Email Crissy Florio 

Instagram Follow Crissy on Instagram 

Flo_withcrissyflorio 

Facebook Follow Crissy on Facebook 

YOUTUBE Flo With Crissy on YouTube   

Resources:

Heal Documentary- Heal Documentary 

Cancer Cartel- Cancer Cartel 

You Can Thrive- You Can Thrive

How Not to Die Book by Dr Michael Greger - How Not To Die 

Anti Cancer A new way of life by David Servan- Schreiber - Anti Cancer: A New Way of Life 

You are invited to For the Love of Jugs Launch Party! When: Feb 23, 2025 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) 

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/8Qt7EIbFTBmT8ncTbZ0yqg 

After registering, you will

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

Sonja Zipser's journey through breast cancer reveals how adversity can catalyze transformation and self-discovery. By embracing spiritual healing and self-love, she has emerged as a mentor, helping others navigate their healing paths.
• Introduction to Sonja's story and background
• Diagnosis of breast cancer and the importance of self-advocacy
• Navigating metastatic cancer and personal loss
• Emphasizing the power of self-love and holistic healing
• Sonja's transition into a mentorship role for others
• Encouragement for listeners to nurture their own healing journeys

https://www.instagram.com/iamsonjazipser/

https://www.facebook.com/iamsonjazipser

http://www.youtube.com/@sonjazipser-ambitioussinglemom

https://linktr.ee/ambitioussinglemoms

www.sonja-zipser.de

[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

Empowerment through education and self-advocacy takes center stage as Spencer Moore  shares her breast cancer journey with Jamie Vaughn. By fostering community support and providing relatable resources, they emphasize the importance of knowledge in overcoming fear of breast cancer.

• Spencer shares her personal story of early-stage breast cancer
• Importance of educating oneself on breast health
• Engaging in regular self-exams as a preventive measure
• Discussion around genetic vs. environmental factors in breast cancer
• Highlighting the Know Your Lemons initiative as a resource
• Tips for finding community support and advocacy
• Encouragement to prioritize self-awareness and health choices

Rating and reviewing matters! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast. Your support helps expand our reach and share crucial information with others.

www.spencerita.com 

[email protected]

IG: @spencerita_ 

IG: @thehairychinpodcast

Listen to ‘The Hairy Chin Podcast’ on your favorite podcast streaming platform or at https://the-hairy-chin-podcast.captivate.fm/

Resources:

Know Your Lemons Foundation: www.knowyourlemons.org

Know Your Lemons Mobile App: https://www.knowyourlemons.org/app

Amy Enos, the “Low Tox Pharmacist” Link is to download her “Five Free Ways to Lower Your Toxic Exposure”: https://lowtoxpharmacist.myflodesk.com/yo0hs6h130

Amazon link for the book: The Body Keeps The Score, Bessel v

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

This Part 2 episode highlights the emotional complexities of surviving breast cancer and the importance of vulnerability and community support in healing. Jamie and Amy discuss personal growth, trauma, and the transformative power of self-care practices that contribute to a lasting recovery.

• Discussing trauma's role in survivorship 
• The emotional impact of breast cancer and its treatment 
• Emphasizing the strength found in vulnerability 
• Community support as a healing mechanism 
• Lessons learned from writing a book about survivorship 
• Importance of self-care throughout life 
• Taking healing retreats for personal growth 
• Navigating deep personal beliefs around money 
• Understanding the difference in social interactions post-cancer 
• Encouragement to embrace and share personal stories 
[email protected]

IG: Amy's Personal Instagram and Instagram: Baringitalltogether   (community and resources) 

FB: Amy's Facebook  

Web: Amy Banocy 

BARING IT ALL on Amazon: BARING IT ALL on Amazon

Download a free chapter: FREE Chapter 

Media: Media

Podcasts Mentioned in this episode:
We Can Do Hard Things Post Election Family Meeting 

We Can Do Hard Things w/ Malcolm Gladwell 

Platinum Wealth Podcast  

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

A heartfelt conversation unfolds as Jamie Vaughn and Amy Banocy discuss their lessons learned in 2024. The conversation connects to the complexities of breast cancer survivorship, focusing on fear, authenticity, and the importance of community. Their insights offer inspiration and connection for listeners, highlighting their journeys and shared lessons learned throughout the year.
• Addressing fear as a part of the survivor experience
• Importance of community support in healing journeys
• The role of storytelling in reclaiming power
• Finding authenticity after facing adversity
• Embracing vulnerability to promote healing
• Insights on the spiritual connection to personal growth
• The significance of grounding and safety in the healing process
• Shared lessons learned from their respective journeys
• Impact of positive focus in a turbulent world
• Building connections and lifting each other up in difficult times

[email protected]

IG: Amy's Personal Instagram and Instagram: Baringitalltogether   (community and resources) 

FB: Amy's Facebook  

Web: Amy Banocy 

BARING IT ALL on Amazon: BARING IT ALL on Amazon

Download a free chapter: FREE Chapter 

Media: Media

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 are thrilled to welcome back Tiffany Troso-Sandoval MD, a distinguished medical oncologist with a quarter-century of experience in women's cancers. Dr. Troso shares her insights from a recent breast cancer symposium, illuminating groundbreaking patient care and treatment strategy advancements. As she shares her journey from the clinic to her broader role in cancer advocacy through her company, Winning The Cancer Journey, Dr. Troso unveils some of her plans aimed at educating and empowering both patients and caregivers.

We explore the complex world of metastatic breast cancer treatment, emphasizing estrogen receptor-positive cases. We review the different types of anti-estrogen therapies including how and why they work.  We discuss the role of CDK4/6 inhibitors used with aromatase inhibitors, breaking down how these treatments target estrogen pathways to curb cancer growth. We navigate the intricacies of ESR1 mutations and explore how selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs) are crucial in overcoming treatment resistance. 

From chemotherapy timing to empowering caregivers, we delve into the multifaceted nature of breast cancer treatment decisions. Dr. Troso shares her transition from hands-on patient care to creating impactful online resources, highlighting the ongoing nature of the cancer journey for both patients and caregivers. 


[email protected]
Dr. Troso on Facebook
Winning The Cancer Journey on Facebook
Dr. Troso on Instagram
Winning The Cancer Journey on TikTok

San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Guide

CNN interview:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MU38D89YlQ0

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 .