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Breast Cancer Awareness Month Finale What happens after someone hears the words, “You have cancer”? As we close our Breast Cancer Awareness Month series, Marcylle welcomes our final guest of the month, Dr. Tiffany Troso-Sandoval, for an episode centered on clarity, compassion, and patient empowerment. With more than 25 years of experience caring for women with cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering, Dr. Troso-Sandoval brings a patient-centered perspective to understanding a diagnosis and navigating care. She is the author of Calming the Cancer Chaos, a guide to understanding treatment options, organizing care, and asking informed questions. Whether you are navigating a diagnosis, supporting someone you love, or looking to better understand breast cancer care, this finale invites you to look beyond awareness and toward informed conversations with your healthcare team. Dr. Tiffany Troso-Sandoval is a medical oncologist, author, and patient educator whose work draws on more than 25 years caring for women with cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Through her educational resources, she helps patients understand their diagnoses, prepare for appointments, and participate more confidently in their care. ·       Get In Touch With Dr Tiffany    Dr Tiffany's websiteBook: Calming the Cancer Chaos— a guide to understanding your diagnosis, organizing your care, and taking an active role in treatment. ·       Instagram: @drtiffanytrosoYouTube: @drtiffanytroso Thank you for joining our Breast CancerAwareness Month series. Share Episode 247 with someone who may find this conversation helpful, and follow 50% with Marcylle Combs for more conversations that inform, encourage, and connect us. Medical disclaimer: This episode is for general education and information only and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Discussscreening, symptoms, and treatment decisions with your qualified healthcare team.

In this powerful Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode, Marcylle sits down with Megan-Claire Chase, also known as “Warrior Megsie,” a nationally recognized breast cancer survivor, advocate, speaker, writer, and storyteller. Megan-Claire was diagnosed with Stage IIA invasive lobular breast cancer at just 39 years old after spending years knowing something was wrong with her body and not feeling fully heard. Her experience became the beginning of a deeper mission: to help patients trust their voices, advocate for better care, and push for more equity in healthcare. Today, Megan-Claire uses her story to lead national conversations around survivorship, patient-centered research, health equity, and representation in clinical trials. She serves as the Breast Cancer Program Director for SHARE Cancer Support and hosts Our BC Life, a podcast that amplifies the voices of breast cancer survivors. In this episode, she and Marcylle talk about what it means to keep using your voice when life gets hard. They discuss the reality of being dismissed in the exam room, the emotional side of survivorship, the importance of asking for support, and why awareness must turn into action. This conversation is honest, moving, and deeply needed. It is a reminder that your story matters. Your instincts matter. And your voice may be the very thing that helps someone else feel less alone. Key Topics Megan-Claire Chase's personal cancer journeyImportance of genetic testing and family historyAdvocacy for diverse representation in clinical trialsImpact of healthcare disparities on minority communitiesThe role of humor and positivity in coping with cancerLife on the cancer survivorship trainThe significance of early detection and listening to your bodyHow storytelling and writing support healing and awarenessThe importance of community and support networksStrategies for healthcare professionals to improve patient trustGet In Touch With Megan-Claire: Instagram, Twitter (X), Bluesky, and TikTok – @warriormegise Facebook – Megsie Chase LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-claire-chase/

Christine G. Anastos spent decades protecting public health as an environmental engineer before becoming a patient herself. After months of advocating for answers, she was diagnosed with breast cancer—an experience that reshaped her purpose and led her to found Connect & Thrive, a public benefit corporation supporting people living with cancer.In this episode, Christine shares her journey from caregiver to patient to advocate. She opens up about self-advocacy, the emotional weight of survivorship, equitable access to care, and the hope that can be found in healing beyond diagnosis.Key Topics Christine's breast cancer journey and diagnosisEnvironmental factors and their impact on healthNavigating the healthcare system effectivelyLifestyle and dietary changes for preventionThe role of mindset and mental health in healingUse of AI and data in health monitoringImportance of trust but verify in health choicesEnvironmental toxins and regulation differencesSmall actionable health tips for everyoneGet In Touch With Christine: Home - Connect & Thrive (CAT) Christine Anastos |LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

In this episode of 50% with Marcylle Combs, I sit down with Lisa Crites, a breast cancer survivor whose personal journey became the spark for an invention that has helped women all over the world. After her own surgery and recovery, Lisa saw a need that most people would have never noticed — because sometimes the most meaningful solutions are born in the middle of our hardest seasons. Out of that need, she created The Shower Shirt, a water-resistant post-surgical garment designed to help breast cancer patients shower safely and with dignity after surgery. Lisa’s story is one of grit, faith, creativity, and purpose. She reminds us that survivorship is not just about getting through the diagnosis — it is about what we do with the wisdom, compassion, and courage we gain on the other side. In our conversation, Lisa shares what it was like to face breast cancer, how she turned a deeply personal challenge into a practical solution for other women, and why advocacy matters so much for patients who are trying to heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This episode is for every woman who has walked through something hard and wondered if anything good could possibly come from it. Lisa’s answer is a beautiful reminder: yes, it can. In this episode, we talk about: Lisa’s breast cancer journey and recovery experienceThe moment she realized women needed a better post-surgical showering solutionHow The Shower Shirt was createdThe emotional side of healing after breast cancer surgeryWhy dignity matters in recoveryTurning pain into purposeEncouragement for women facing breast cancer todayResources Beautifully Unbroken: A Life-Changing InventionShower Shirt - Patent and Product InfoUnited States Patent and Trademark OfficePatient Innovation Award - University of PortugalAI in Journalism - Cross-Referencing Tips Get In Touch With Lisa: Lisa FCrites - (4) Facebook BeautifullyUnbroken – FB (5) Facebook IG - (2) Instagram www.lisashowershirt.com – Lisa F. Crites |LinkedIn “BeautifullyUnbroken”: A Life-Changing Invention: Born of Loss, Cancer, Courage, andFaith.: CRITES, LISA F.: 9798198812697: Amazon.com: Books

In this episode, Marcylle sits down with Laura Carfang, founder of ⁠SurvivingBreastCancer.org to talk about leadership, survivorship, and what happens when a personal diagnosis becomes the beginning of a much larger mission. Laura was just 34 when she was diagnosed with Stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma after her early symptoms were initially dismissed. Living an active, health-conscious life, she never expected breast cancer to become part of her story. But that experience challenged what she thought she knew about risk, prevention, and the gaps that exist for people navigating life after diagnosis. What began as Laura’s personal search for trustworthy information and meaningful connection grew into SurvivingBreastCancer.org, a national nonprofit digital platform serving individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, their families, and a growing global community. Laura shares how SBC is redefining survivorship as an active, ongoing phase of care—not simply recovery. Through evidence-informed education, moderated community support, integrative oncology–inspired programming, and AI-powered navigation, SBC helps close the gap between clinical treatment and whole-person support. This conversation explores what it means to lead through uncertainty, build something meaningful from adversity, and create access to care, education, and connection beyond the clinic walls. In this episode, we talk about: Laura’s diagnosis at 34 and how it reshaped her understanding of health, leadership, and purposeThe gap in survivorship support that led her to create SurvivingBreastCancer.orgWhy survivorshipis an ongoing phase of care, not a finish line  How digital tools, education, and community can remove barriers and expand supportWhat leaders can learn from navigating crisis, uncertainty, and mission-driven work About Laura Carfang: Laura Carfang is the founder of SurvivingBreastCancer.org, a U.S.-based national nonprofit building digital infrastructure for breast cancer survivorship. SBC serves all 50 states and a growing international community by offering credible information, meaningful connection, and whole-person support from diagnosis through long-term survivorship. Learn more: SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources Surviving Breast Cancer OrganizationSan Antonio Breast Cancer SymposiumAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Get In Touch With Laura: www.survivingbreastcancer.org IG: @survivingbreastcancerorg IG: @laura_carfang TikTok: @sbc_org FB: Survivingbreastcancerorg YouTube: @SurvivingBreastCancer For more information about Marcylle Combs Leadership Series, and how to register go to marcyllecombs.com

Every October, Marcylle and Deantha dedicate this month of episodes to Breast Cancer Awareness. As a survivor herself, Marcylle chooses to take this time to honor the professionals, the survivors and their families. Thank you for listening. Here is the link to the Marcylle Combs Leadership Series

In this episode of 50% with Marcylle Combs, Marcylle sits down with Dr. Christiane Schroeter, a TEDx speaker, Fulbright Scholar, professor, bestselling author, and creator of Petite Practice®. Christiane shares how small, steady steps can create real momentum in leadership, life, and personal growth. With a background in applied economics and years of experience teaching thousands of professionals and students, she brings a research-backed approach to change that feels practical, sustainable, and refreshingly doable. Together, Marcylle and Christiane talk about confidence, reinvention, women in leadership, and why meaningful growth does not have to come from dramatic transformation. This conversation is a reminder that the next right step may be smaller than you think, but repeated with intention, it can lead to lasting change. Of course we also talk the impact of AI, and cultural differences in women’s careers across countries. Discover practical strategies for personal growth, marketing, and embracing change. Key Topics The power of small, consistent steps in achieving goalsUsing AI to enhance authenticity and connectionCultural differences in women’s career paths between Germany and the USThe purple cow marketing strategy for standing outThe importance of reflection and pausing in habit formation Get In Touch with Christiane: Resources Petite Practice by Dr. Christiane SchroeterThe Purple Cow by Seth GodinDr. Christiane Schroeter's WebsiteGuest links ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Website⁠ Click Here For Information on the Marcylle Combs Leadership Series

Tara Youngblood shares expert insights on sleep, debunking myths, and practical tips to improve sleep quality for better health and productivity. She has spent well over a decade researching the science of sleep, particularly how temperature affects sleep quality, recovery, and overall health. Her background combines physics, engineering, sleep diagnostics, and integrative health. She has been involved in developing patented sleep technologies and has become a recognized speaker on sleep optimization, recovery, and wellness. Dr. Tara Youngblood is a clinical psychologist, and internationally recognized sleep scientist. As the Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer of Geli Sleep, she has dedicated more than 10,000 hours to sleep research and holds more than 50 patents in sleep technology. Known as the "Sleep Geek," Dr. Youngblood is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author of Reprogram Your Sleep, and a leading voice in functional and holistic health focusing on restorative sleep and women’s health. She combines scientific rigor with a deeply personal mission to help people optimize their health through better sleep. Resources Jelly Sleep - Mattresses and PillowsYoungblood CoachingTiny Habits by BJ FoggSleep Science ResearchGet In Touch With Tara: InstagramWebsite Also affiliated with the websites gelisleep.com and t2consulting.co

Part 2 of the micro cast conversation on Medicaid for Aging Parents. Damon Terzaghi shares his extensive knowledge on Medicaid, covering its national framework, state variations, eligibility criteria, and planning strategies for families. This conversation is essential for anyone navigating long-term care options for aging loved ones. Key Topics Financial considerations and asset limits Planning strategies for families The importance of early planning and professional advice Resources ⁠Title XIX of the Social Security Act⁠⁠CMS - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services⁠⁠Medicaid Planning and Asset Protection Strategies⁠ Damon Terzaghi has spent his career working in programs that support older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families. Currently, Damon is Vice President of Medicaid Advocacy and Programs at the National Alliance for Care at Home. In this role, Damon is responsible for leading the Association’s Medicaid practice, including establishing regulatory, legislative, and technical assistance priorities; providing information and analysis to members regarding issues in Medicaid that impact Homecare, Hospice, and HCBS; and developing the organization’s resource library. Prior to the Alliance, he has served as: ·       Senior Director at ADvancing States, the association representing state government aging, disability, and long-term services and supports agencies. ·       Vice President for the Marwood Group LLC. ·       Health Insurance Specialist for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). ·       Senior Policy Associate for the National Association of State Medicaid Directors. ·       Operations and Policy Analyst for the Oregon Department of Human Services. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, and a Master of Science in Public Health Administration from Trinity University in Washington DC. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Services Research from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Damon lives in Arlington, VA, with his wife, two poorly-behaved dogs, and three equally poorly-behaved children.

In this episode, Medicaid expert, Damon Terzaghi, shares his extensive knowledge on Medicaid, covering its national framework, state variations, eligibility criteria, and planning strategies for families. This conversation is essential for anyone navigating long-term care options for aging loved ones. Key Topics Medicaid's national framework and state variationsEligibility criteria and assessment toolsResources Title XIX of the Social Security ActCMS - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid Planning and Asset Protection Strategies Damon Terzaghi has spent his career working in programs that support older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families. Currently, Damon is Vice President of Medicaid Advocacy and Programs at the National Alliance for Care at Home. In this role, Damon is responsible for leading the Association’s Medicaid practice, including establishing regulatory, legislative, and technical assistance priorities;providing information and analysis to members regarding issues in Medicaid that impact Homecare, Hospice, and HCBS; and developing the organization’s resource library. Prior to the Alliance, he has served as: ·       Senior Director at ADvancing States, the association representing state government aging, disability, and long-term services and supports agencies. ·       Vice President for the Marwood Group LLC. ·       Health Insurance Specialist for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). ·       Senior Policy Associate for the National Association of State Medicaid Directors. ·       Operations and Policy Analyst for the Oregon Department of Human Services. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from WillametteUniversity in Salem, Oregon, and a Master of Science in Public Health Administration from Trinity University in Washington DC. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Services Research from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Damon lives in Arlington, VA, with his wife, two poorly-behaved dogs, and three equally poorly-behaved children.

Amanda shares her inspiring journey from solo traveler to successful founder of a women-focused travel community. Discover her insights on building community, vetting travelers, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. An entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Solo Female Traveler Network, the largest global community of women who travel solo. Designs connection-focused group adventures around the world and helps women build confidence and belonging through shared experiences. Key topics Amanda's journey from traveler to founderBuilding and vetting a women travel communityCreating unique travel experiences and retreatsChallenges and rewards of travel entrepreneurshipInsights on traveling to less accessible destinationsGet In Touch With Amanda: The Solo Female Traveler NetworkAmanda's InstagramAmanda's Facebook GroupPersonal site: https://meetamandablack.com/Personal IG: @mandeeleighbee

Lily Doyle, founding researcher at Tolan, brings nearly a decade of experience working in mental health with a focus on emotional-behavioral disorders and behavioral intervention settings with youth. Before joining Tolan, Lily was a doctoral researcher and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Lily is instrumental in Tolan’s mission to build a voice-based AI companion that improves its users' overall emotional well-being and encourages people to build healthy relationships in the real world. She pursued her Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University and holds an M.Ed. from the University of Washington. Lily is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has been published in peer-reviewed journals and federal practice guides distributed to K-12 educators nationwide. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us seek ways to feel more grounded and connected, yet the demands of life can often make us feel isolated. Enter Tolan, an innovative AI companion designed not just to chat, but to enhance our daily experiences. Learn how it supports users in achieving personal goals. Lily discusses the innovative AI companion designed to support mental health and daily life. She shares the development of Tolan, ethical considerations in AI, and future visions for AI companions as extensions of ourselves. Tolan acts as a personalized assistant, designed to help users manage stress, challenge themselves, and ultimately improve their daily lives. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, Tolan takes on a more interactive role, engaging with users in meaningful conversations that adapt to their individual needs. As the head of research at Tolan, Lily Doyle emphasizes the importance of creating a companion that truly understands users and helps them feel supported. Key Topics AI companion development and purposeUser research and target audience insightsEthical considerations and guardrails in AIFuture visions for AI as extensions of usersGet In Touch With Lily: ​Tolan App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tolan-alien-best-friend/id6477549878​Tolan Official Website: https://www.tolans.com/​LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liliandoyle/ This podcast is found on Apple, Spotify, ListenNotes and several other platforms like podscan: podscan_JFOR5zkjagJkxaKbkqouMSYaIFlD6NwR

Cathy Fyock shares her journey from HR professional to successful author and book coach. Discover her strategic process for writing books quickly, the importance of authentic storytelling, and how to leverage your book for business growth and speaking opportunities. Cathy brings deep experience nurturing women leaders through authorship, drawing from her work with hundreds of professionals who credit her with helping them find the confidence and strategy to publish and expand their impact. Her approach has helped many overcome self-doubt and move from idea to completed book, often resulting in career growth and new opportunities for leadership. With Cathy’s background as a #1 international bestsellingand award-winning author, her perspective is always encouraging and empowering.  Cathy Fyock, CSP, SPHR, SHRM-SCP is The Business BookStrategist and works with professionals and thought leaders who want to write a nonfiction book about their expertise as a business development strategy.  She is the author of 12 books, including—On Your Mark: From First Word to First Draftin Six Weeks, Blog2Book: Repurposing Content to Discover the Book You’ve Already Written, My New Book, and withcoauthor Lois Creamer, The Speaker Author: Sell More Books and Book More Speeches. Her book, Authority, is an anthology about the power of authorship and was a Wall Street Journal bestseller. Her newest book is Writer Crisis Hotline, coauthored with full-time author Allie Pleiter. Get In Touch With Cathy:  https://www.cathyfyock.com/,  https://www.facebook.com/TheBusinessBookStrategist/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-fyock-973b735/

Alma Derricks shares her extensive experience in media, branding, and innovation, discussing the importance of understanding audiences, balancing technology with human skills, and fostering innovation through dialogue. She reflects on her international experiences, the evolution of the internet, and the power of authentic engagement. Alma Derricks is a growth strategist, innovation expert, and founder of the award-winning consultancy REV, where she helps organizations navigate reinvention, accelerate growth, and build new brands and businesses. Throughout her career, she has advised global organizations on strategy and innovation, served as a Strategy Partner at Deloitte, and led commercial operations for Cirque du Soleil. Alma is also the co-creator of IGNITE, a leadership masterclass focused on communication, influence, and executive presence. A sought-after speaker at events including Adobe Summit and CES, she is passionate about helping leaders see disruption as an opportunity to create extraordinary growth.Get In Touch with Alma:Alma Derricks on LinkedIn Rev (her website)

This episode offers a comprehensive guide on medication management, and legal preparations. Hosted by experts, it provides practical tips for families to ensure dignity, independence, and peace of mind. KEY TOPICS Talking to parents about medication safety and managementStart early conversations about aging to build trust.TAKEAWAYS Use routines to help with medication adherence.Keep all medications in one pharmacy to avoid interactions.Prioritize safety over control in caregiving.For any questions or suggestions for future topics on caregiving for aging parents: ⁠https://www.marcyllecombs.com/#contact