Rare Enough
The Rare Enough Podcast, hosted by DJ Stewart, a GBM survivor, dives deep into the world of brain cancer awareness, support, and research, inspired by the mission of the Head for the Cure Foundation.
Each episode features compelling conversations with patients, caregivers, researchers, and advocates, sharing their unique experiences and insights. We explore a variety of topics, from the latest advancements in brain cancer treatment to personal stories of resilience and hope!
Episodes
33 episodes
The Story Behind "Rare Enough" with Ryan Lovell
In this episode we’re joined by filmmaker Ryan Lovell to talk about how Rare Enough came to life. From the very first spark of an idea to the documentary that changed everything, Ryan shares the inspiration behind the stories and the p...
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34:12
Engineering Hope: Dr. Akhavan on Car T- Cells & Immunotherapy
This episode we sit down with Dr. Akhavan, Physician Scientist at The University of Kansas Cancer Center, to dive deep into the promising world of CAR T-cell therapy. Dr. Akhavan breaks down how this innovative treatment is being applied in the...
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33:42
From Lab to Life: Trishla Gandhi’s Journey in Neuro-Oncology Research
In this episode, we sit down with Trishla to explore the world of neuro-oncology research. Trishla shares how meaningful moments shaped her passion for clinical trials and patient care. We discuss the challenges around access, the need for more...
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34:17
Turning Grief Into Purpose With Drew Houts
In episode 26 of the Rare Enough podcast, Drew Houts joins us to share his journey as a caregiver to his wife, Julie, during her fight with glioblastoma. Through the challenges they faced together, Drew discovered the gaps in support f...
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30:57
Hope in the Fight: Erin Gaffney’s Oligodendroglioma Journey
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month, and in this episode, we share the story of Erin Gaffney, an incredible Oligodendroglioma fighter who gets real about her journey, including undergoing an awake craniotomy, navigating the weight of survivor’s ...
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32:11
Still Fighting the Fire: Zach Toole’s Caregiver Journey
In this episode we sit down with firefighter Zach Toole, who shares his heartfelt journey as a caregiver to his mother during her battle with glioblastoma. Though she has since passed, Zach continues to honor her legacy by fiercely advocating f...
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22:59
Occupational Therapy & Caregiving: Practical Support from Ally Ponticello
As we recognize April as Occupational Therapy month, we welcome Ally Ponticello, a licensed Occupational Therapist and caregiver to her mom, who is battling glioblastoma. Ally shares invaluable insights into the world of occupational therapy, o...
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32:33
Two Diagnoses, One Unbreakable Bond: Ray & Melissa's Story
This mini episode features Ray and Melissa Lambert—a couple with an extraordinary story. Both diagnosed with brain tumors, they’ve each taken on the dual role of patient and caregiver, supporting one another through surgeries, treatment, and re...
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19:59
Serving While Surviving: A Brain Cancer Patient’s Calling to Chaplaincy
This month, we sit down with Aaron Closson, whose battle with brain cancer led him on an unexpected and meaningful path. After facing his own diagnosis, Aaron found a calling in helping others navigate the emotional and spiritual challenges tha...
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33:58
Bringing Awareness with Team Kyla – A Conversation with Jo Singleton
In this mini episode, we’re joined by Jo Singleton, Team Captain for the Charleston community, as she shares the story behind Team Kyla and her dedication to raising brain cancer awareness. Jo opens up about what fuels her passion for advocacy,...
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17:10
Breaking Barriers in Neuro-Oncology: Dr. Na Tosha Gatson on Innovation, Health Equity, and Quality Care
In this episode we welcome Dr. Na Tosha Gatson, Director of Neuro-Oncology & Professor of Neurology and Medicine at IU Health. A leader in the field, Dr. Gatson shares insights on advancements in neuro-oncology, the impact of brain tum...
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45:56
Events with Purpose: Inside the Playbook of Head for the Cure with Maggie Haynes
In this mini episode of Rare Enough, Maggie Haynes, Director of Events at Head for the Cure, shares the secrets behind the "playbook" of organizing meaningful events that fuel hope, inspire action, and raise critical funds for brain ca...
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22:08
From Surgeon to Patient: Dr. Doug Burton's Journey with Brain Cancer
In this episode we interview Dr. Doug Burton, a renowned spine surgeon and Professor at the University of Kansas, who shares his transformative journey from physician to patient after his own brain cancer diagnosis. Dr. Burton reflects on ...
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40:54
Building Hope: A Conversation with Head for the Cure Founder Matt Anthony
In the final Rare Enough Podcast episode of the year, we sit down with Matt Anthony, founder of Head for the Cure, to reflect on the journey from the foundation's early days to where it stands today. Join us as we celebrate the incredible succe...
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49:39
Navigating Grief with Luke Anderson
In this episode, we have a heartfelt conversation with Luke Anderson, the son of Lori Stevens, who bravely fought but ultimately lost her battle with brain cancer. Luke shares his personal journey and the creation of the Lori Project, an ...
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30:27
Patient & Caregiver Couple Embrace "Faith Over Fear" with Brian and Emily Godawski
In this episode we introduce Brian and Emily Godawski- an inspiring duo who faced brain cancer with unwavering resilience. Brian, a brain cancer survivor, and Emily, his devoted caregiver, overcame immense challenges by embracing "faith o...
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48:11
How the Fisher Family Channeled Their Grief into "Team Little Owl" to Advocate for Childhood Cancer Awareness
In honor of Childhood Brain Cancer Awareness Month, we introduce Kelly and Evie Fisher. Kelly and Evie share the poignant and inspiring story of Allie, Kelly's daughter and Evie's little sister, who bravely battled brain cancer. Thr...
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34:57
A Passion for Learning: How Simon Khagi, MD, Became a Leader in Brain Tumor Treatments at Hoag Cancer Institute
Meet Simon Khagi, MD, Medical Director of Neuro-Oncology at Hoag Family Cancer Institute and a triple-board-certified oncologist. He specializes in primary brain, spine, lung, and advanced skin cancers and has extensive experience with gl...
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35:45
Navigating Brain Cancer Together: Michael and Vanessa Hugo’s Journey Through Brain Cancer
This is a special anniversary episode celebrating the first year of the Rare Enough Podcast! For our fourteenth episode, we introduce Michael and Vanessa Hugo! The Hugo's are a patient and caregiver dynamic duo that work day in and ...
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52:33
Transforming Tragedy: Colin Gerner, Founder of StacheStrong, and His Journey After Losing His Brother
For this episode, we introduce Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong, who is leading a dedicated fight against brain cancer. Under his leadership, StacheStrong has become a prominent force in raising awareness and funding for cri...
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44:01
Survivor Roundtable with DJ Stewart, Blake Burke, Molly Marco, and Josiah Mihok
For Brain Tumor Awareness Month, we are highlighting not just one but three incredible brain cancer survivors! Our latest survivor episode features three extraordinary individuals: Blake Burke (Oligodendroglioma), Molly Marco (Astrocytoma), and...
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52:56
Changing the Face of Brain Tumor Treatments with Novocure President Frank Leonard
Meet Frank Leonard, the President for Novocure Oncology. Frank leads the global business operations for a medical device company pioneering innovative treatment modalities for solid tumor cancers, including glioblastoma. Learn about Tumor Treat...
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39:06
Journey as a Caregiver to Both Parents and Founder of Slay Society with Laura Dill
In our tenth episode, we introduce Laura Dill, full time caregiver to both of her parents who were diagnosed with the same incurable brain cancer only 14 days apart. Listen along to see how she triumphantly turned her tragedy around...
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50:15
Peddling Past a Brain Tumor Diagnosis with Mountain Biker Zach Round
Meet Zach Round, a survivor and thriver who triumphed over brain cancer. In recounting his story, Zach reveals how he faced adversity head-on, while never allowing obstacles to stop him from living his best life.“I have had to dig deep e...
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53:27
Transforming Brain Tumor Care Through Technology: Insights from GT Medical Technologies President Shane Brown
This episode, we introduce Shane Brown, President at GT Med Tech, who has devoted his career to combating brain cancer. Shane is driven by his profound commitment to the company's mission of enhancing the lives of individuals with brain t...
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41:42