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Beth, Jess, and Jamie tackle one of the hardest parts of survivorship: looking in the mirror and recognizing the person staring back. This episode starts with a simple question—how do you feel about your body in one word?—and the answers reveal everything. "Accepting." "Strong." "Disappointed." From there, the conversation goes deep into the gap between who they were before cancer and who they are now. They dive into the power of positive thinking—not the toxic "just be happy" kind, but the intentional practice of choosing gratitude and joy even when it's hard. The conversation explores how our minds and bodies work together, why negative self-talk can literally make us sick, and the delicate balance between acknowledging hard feelings and not letting them take root. Tune in for a surprisingly honest discussion about what self-love even means when you can't separate it from how you look. This episode won't give you a five-step plan to love yourself. But it will make you feel less alone in the messy middle of trying. Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith Through FireThrivent Gateway Financial Group

New season. New Besties. New Topics. When you're going through breast cancer treatment, finding voices that truly understand what you're experiencing can feel like discovering a lifeline. That's exactly what the Besties with Breasties podcast has been for so many patients and survivors—and this season, we're excited to introduce you to the new co-hosts who will be walking alongside you. Beth Wilmes, founder of Faith Through Fire, with co-hosts Jess and Jamie, both young breast cancer survivors and moms, share their personal stories, discuss what inspired them to get involved with Faith Through Fire, and explore the dynamics of their friendship. The conversation covers everything from how they met at survivor retreats, to their different approaches, to life after cancer. This season focuses on relationships after breast cancer, including topics like learning to love yourself again, dating post-cancer, and navigating life changes with partners and family. Whether you're newly diagnosed, in treatment, or thriving in survivorship, this podcast offers community, laughter, and real conversations about life with and after breast cancer. Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith Through FireThrivent Gateway Financial Group

Hormone therapy is one of the most important—and challenging—parts of life after breast cancer. In this episode of Besties with Breasties, hosts Beth Wilmes and Jess Anderson welcome Dr. Katherine Clifton, board-certified medical oncologist at Washington University School of Medicine, for an in-depth conversation on hormone suppression therapy and survivorship. This episode breaks down what breast cancer survivors need to know about Tamoxifen vs. Aromatase Inhibitors, how long hormone therapy should last (five years vs. ten years), and why treatment adherence is one of the biggest challenges in breast cancer care today. Dr. Clifton explains how personalized medicine—including tools like the Breast Cancer Index—is helping patients and providers make more informed, individualized decisions. The conversation also addresses real-world side effects such as joint pain, cardiovascular health concerns, and quality-of-life issues that often lead patients to stop treatment early. With emerging research on lower-dose Tamoxifen and minimal residual disease testing, this episode offers both education and hope for the future of breast cancer treatment. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode provides practical insights and encouragement for navigating hormone therapy after breast cancer. In this episode, you’ll learn: Hormone therapy can reduce breast cancer recurrence risk by approximately 50%Tamoxifen is typically used for premenopausal patients, while Aromatase Inhibitors are for postmenopausal patientsSide effects such as joint pain and cardiovascular risks require proactive management20–50% of patients discontinue hormone therapy early due to side effectsResearch into lower-dose Tamoxifen may improve tolerabilityMinimal residual disease testing may lead to more personalized treatment approaches Learn more from Dr. Katherine Clifton, MD: https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/clifton-katherine/ Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith through FireWashington University School of MedicineThrivent Gateway Financial Group

In this inspiring episode of Besties with Breasties, Beth and co-host sit down with Michelle, a young mom who faced the shock of an early breast cancer diagnosis and the unexpected emotional toll of a later recurrence. Michelle opens up about the fears, identity shifts, and challenges of navigating motherhood through treatment—sharing what it’s really like to balance caring for your children while trying to care for yourself. With honesty and grace, Michelle discusses the heartache of losing breastfeeding, preparing for surgery, and processing the complex emotions that follow a recurrence. Her story highlights not just the difficulty of the journey, but also the strength that emerges when women lean on community, mental health support, and faith. Throughout the conversation, the hosts explore how connection, vulnerability, and shared experience can transform the healing process. Michelle credits Faith Through Fire with giving her both meaningful support and a powerful sense of belonging—a reminder that no one has to walk this road alone. As the episode closes, Michelle leaves listeners with a message of hope: even in the hardest seasons, light breaks through. Her story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the healing that happens when women lift one another up. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Breast cancer deeply impacts young moms emotionally and physically • Community and faith play a crucial role in healing • Motherhood during treatment requires extraordinary resilience • Recurrence can spark fear, grief, and confusion—but support helps • Therapy and support groups strengthen mental well-being • Vulnerability with children fosters strength and connection Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith Through FireThrivent Gateway Financial Group

In this powerful episode, hosts Beth Wilmes and Jess open up about one of the most common—and least discussed—challenges breast cancer survivors face: the fear of recurrence. From the emotional weight of scanxiety to the subtle ways anxiety influences daily life, they break down what this fear really looks like and why it’s so normal. Beth and Jess share their personal stories, discuss how recurrence anxiety shows up in thoughts and behavior, and offer practical coping strategies, including distraction techniques, mindfulness, and breathwork. They explore the importance of community support, survivorship mentorship, and mental health advocacy—reminding listeners they never have to walk this journey alone. Whether you're a breast cancer survivor, caregiver, or someone passionate about women’s health and wellness, this episode provides encouragement, validation, and tools for emotional resilience. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why fear of recurrence is so common among breast cancer survivorsHow anxiety can affect mental health, relationships, and daily routinesPractical strategies—mindfulness, breathwork, and peer support—to manage fearThe power of community, survivorship programs, and mentorshipHow self-advocacy and structured follow-up care support emotional well-being Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith Through Fire Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

In this deeply moving episode of Besties with Breasties, hosts Beth, Jamie and special guest Pastor Patti Kirkland, explore one of life’s most profound topics — death, faith, and the Christian belief in eternal life. With honesty and compassion, Pastor Patti shares how her personal experiences with grief and loss have shaped her understanding of hope, eternity, and God’s promises. Together, the group unpacks the fear surrounding mortality and reveals how faith can transform that fear into peace, purpose, and perspective. This episode speaks to breast cancer survivors, caregivers, and anyone walking through hardship or uncertainty — reminding you that you are never alone, and that there is strength in faith and community. In this episode, you’ll learn: How faith reframes our understanding of death as a transition, not an end.The Christian perspective on eternal life and how it provides comfort in times of fear.Pastor Patti Kirkland’s story of loss and resilience through faith.Why community support is essential when facing grief or uncertainty.How to navigate doubt and spiritual struggle with grace.Practical ways to nurture your faith and emotional well-being during difficult times. Connect with Pastor Patti Kirkland: The Crossing Church- St. Peters, MO https://thecrossing.church/aboutLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattikirkland/ Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith Through Fire Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

What does it really mean to take personal responsibility after cancer — and how do you do it without guilt or shame? In this honest and empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Beth and Jessica, unpack what “taking control” looks like after treatment. They dive into how trauma shapes us, what we can and can’t control, and how mindset, discipline, and grace work together in healing. It’s a conversation about self-compassion, empowerment, and finding peace after the storm. You’ll hear: The real meaning of personal responsibility after cancerHow to honor trauma without staying stuck in itDaily choices that help you rebuild confidence and joyLetting go of guilt, shame, and toxic self-blameWhy you don’t need to do it all to take your power back If you’re a breast cancer survivor, caregiver, or anyone navigating life after trauma — this episode will help you take your power back. Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Faith Through Fire Thrivent Gateway Financial Group

Weight Gain After Breast Cancer: Hormones, GLP-1s, & Real Talk on Survivorship Weight gain after breast cancer is real — and rarely talked about. In this honest and empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Beth Wilmes and Jamie Grieshaber break down the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that make post-treatment weight management so challenging. They share personal stories, expert insights, and practical tips to help survivors navigate hormones, menopause, GLP-1 medications, and emotional health — all with honesty, humor, and heart. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn: -The link between weight, cancer, and survivorship -How hormones and menopause affect weight gain -The truth about GLP-1 medications and diet trends -Tips for sustainable, self-compassionate weight management 💗 Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers hope, validation, and tools to thrive after breast cancer. 🔗 Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Women’s Health Unlocked: Cycle Syncing & Nervous System Balance Welcome to another empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes and Jamie Grieshaber are joined by fitness expert and functional nutritionist Natali Kummer to dive deep into cycle syncing, nervous system regulation, and holistic women’s wellness. In this conversation, you’ll learn how to: -Sync your workouts with your menstrual cycle to support energy, strength, and recovery. -Understand the role of the nervous system in women’s health and how to regulate stress for better balance. -Shift your mindset around fitness and wellness to embrace your body’s natural rhythms. -Apply functional nutrition strategies for hormone health and self-care. Whether you’re a breast cancer survivor, a busy mom, or simply looking to optimize your health, this episode is full of actionable tips on fitness, mindset, and holistic women’s wellness practices. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Your Hosts 00:17 – About Faith Through Fire & Podcast Mission 00:25 – Today’s Topic: Cycle Syncing & Exercise 00:57 – Guest Introduction: Natalie Kummer 01:23 – Natalie’s Approach: Beyond Fitness 01:39 – What is Cycle Syncing? 01:49 – Nervous System Regulation in Women’s Wellness 02:05 – Sponsor: Survivorship Bootcamp 03:21 – The Role of the Nervous System in Fitness 03:51 – Why Women Feel Stuck Despite Effort 04:50 – Challenge vs. Threat: Mindset Shifts 06:04 – Positive vs. Negative Stress 07:13 – The Power of Being Present During Exercise 09:10 – Growth Through Discomfort 10:55 – Introduction to Menstrual Cycle Syncing 16:32 – The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle 19:50 – How to Adjust Workouts for Each Phase 22:04 – Using Cycle Syncing for Self-Care 22:57 – Boobs in the News (Fun Segment) 25:58 – Making Wellness Manageable: Where to Start 27:05 – Building Habits & Consistency 28:27 – Sponsor: Thrivent Financial 28:58 – Where to Find Natali Kummer 29:19 – Closing Thoughts & Support Links Connect with Natali Kummer: Website: https://www.natalikummer.com Instagram: @nkummer

Empowered Movement: Exercise, Menopause, and Thriving After Cancer Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes(author, nonprofit founder) and Jamie Grieshaber, are joined by special guest Leeny Hoffman, a certified menopause fitness and health coach. Together, they explore how women can use movement to feel stronger, more energized, and more empowered during menopause and beyond. In this episode, you’ll learn: -How to shift your mindset around exercise in midlife -The science and myths of fitness during menopause -Practical tips for building a sustainable, joyful movement routine -The importance of grace, flexibility, and functional fitness as you age Whether you’re a breast cancer survivor, navigating menopause, or simply looking to thrive in your health journey, this episode is packed with compassionate, science-informed advice and real-life inspiration. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet the Hosts & Mission 02:00 – Today’s Topic: Exercise and Menopause 03:30 – Guest Introduction: Leeny Hoffman’s Story 06:00 – Why Specialize in Menopause Fitness? 09:00 – Myths & Mistakes: Cardio, Weight Lifting, and Recovery 14:00 – Hormones, Mindset, and Listening to Your Body 18:00 – The Role of Grace and Flexibility 21:00 – Functional Fitness & Why It Matters 24:00 – Building a Routine That Sticks 27:00 – Boobs in the News: Miniature Dachshund Adventure 31:00 – Final Thoughts: Advice for Women Starting or Returning to Exercise 34:00 – Where to Find Leeny Hoffman 35:00 – Outro & Support the Show Connect with Leeny Hoffman: Instagram: Leenyhoff https://www.instagram.com/leenyhoff/?hl=es Facebook: Leeny Hoffman Wellness https://www.facebook.com/leenyhoffmannwellness/?_rdr Website:Leeny Hoffman Wellness https://www.leenyhoffmannwellness.com/

Menopause Made Manageable: Small Tweaks for Massive Impact Welcome to another episode of Besties with Breasties Podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes (author, speaker, and founder of Faith Through Fire) and Jamie Grieshaber, dive deep into the realities of menopause, midlife, and thriving after breast cancer. This episode features Jen Schroer, RN, NBC-HWC, a board-certified nurse coach and founder of Clarity Health and Wellness Coaching. After overcoming burnout and hormonal shifts in her 40s, Jen now empowers women to reconnect with their bodies, release perfectionism, and create lasting lifestyle changes. 0:00 – Welcome & Introductions 00:45 – Snake Stories & Menopause Fears 01:34 – Introducing Jen Schroer, RN 02:55 – Jen’s Menopause Journey 06:34 – Common & Overlooked Menopause Symptoms 10:45 – Hormones 101: What’s Happening in Your Body? 16:45 – Emotional Health & The U-Curve of Happiness 21:19 – Boobs in the News 23:44 – Making Menopause Manageable: Little Tweaks, Not Overhauls 28:21 – Coaching with Jen: How She Helps Women Thrive 32:51 – Redefining Success: It’s Not About the Scale. 36:36 – Sponsor: Thrivent Gateway Financial Group 37:48 – Connect with Jen Schroer 40:45 – Closing & How to Support the Show Connect with Jen Schroer: Instagram: @ClarityWellness Facebook: Clarity Health & Wellness Coaching https://www.facebook.com/people/Clarity-Health-Wellness-Coaching/61565380091577/ Website: claritywellnesscoach.com YouTube channel: Nurse Coach Duo https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfvXtSxTwK1Qqgxeupoi2kA Linked in: Jen Schroer https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-schroer-27967a328/

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast! Hosts Beth Wilmes and Jamie Grieshaber are joined by special guest Kelly Burke, founder of Career Slay, to discuss the journey of career transformation after a breast cancer diagnosis. Kelly shares her powerful story of being diagnosed at 29 while pregnant, navigating treatment during the pandemic, and ultimately finding new purpose and joy in her work. Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or simply seeking motivation to make a change, this episode is packed with honest conversation, practical advice, and hope for anyone facing life’s unexpected turns. 00:00 – Welcome & Introductions 00:25 – Mission of Faith Through Fire 00:46 – Meet Co-Host Jamie 01:08 – Young Survival Coalition Conference Recap 01:37 – The Desire for Change After Treatment 01:59 – Introducing Kelly Burke & Career Slay 02:17 – Kelly’s Story: Diagnosis at 29, Pregnancy, and the Pandemic 04:41 – Navigating Treatment and Career at the Same Time 06:12 – Taking Leave and the Relief of Rest 07:38 – Returning to Work: Promotions and New Perspective 09:13 – Beth’s Story: Post-Cancer Career Struggles 10:44 – Permission to Pause and Find Authenticity 11:27 – Burnout, Stress, and Health Warnings 13:15 – The Wake-Up Call: MRI and Tension Headaches 14:54 – Family Priorities and Career Break 16:35 – Planning for Change: Financial and Emotional Prep 17:58 – Launching Career Slay 19:35 – What is Career Slay? Coaching, Podcast, and Speaking 21:47 – Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs 23:15 – Advice: Take One Step at a Time 24:59 – Building Your Personal Board of Directors 26:01 – Final Thoughts: Living with Purpose 26:21 – Where to Find Kelly Burke 26:43 – Closing & How to Support the Podcast Connect with Kelly Burke: Website: https://www.careerslay.com/speaking Social: @CareerSlay

Creating a Motivation Mindset: Exercise as Self-Care with Dr. Michelle Segar In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, host Beth Wilmes, founder of Faith Through Fire, and co-host Jamie Grieshaber, talk about their personal experiences and relationship with exercise. They welcome Dr. Michelle Segar, a behavioral sustainability scientist, health coach, and author of the bestselling book 'No Sweat,' to discuss how to reframe exercise from a chore to a gift. Dr. Segar shares her insights on the science of motivation, behavior change, and sustainable wellbeing, offering practical advice for making lasting, feel-good habits. The episode delves into key topics such as the pitfalls of traditional exercise motivations, the importance of immediate rewards, and how societal norms impact our ability to prioritize self-care. Tune in for a stimulating discussion that aims to help everyone find joy and consistency in physical activity. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasties Podcast 00:46 Discussing Exercise and Motivation 02:16 Interview with Dr. Michelle Segar 03:18 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:31 Diving into Exercise Motivation with Dr. Segar 16:54 Boobs in the News: Funny Tweets and Stories 20:10 Final Thoughts on Exercise and Self-Care 30:02 Closing Remarks and Support Information Dr Michelle Segar: https://michellesegar.com/

Navigating Boundaries Post-Breast Cancer with Henry Amar | Besties with Breasties Podcast Join hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes in this insightful episode of Besties with Breasty as they explore the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Special guest Henry Amar, a renowned life strategist and TED speaker, shares his wisdom on fear-based versus love-based boundaries and how to find the balance that leads to an empowered and authentic life. Discover practical tips and profound insights to help breast cancer survivors navigate relationships and personal growth. Plus, enjoy light-hearted segments like Boobs in the News! Don't miss this enriching conversation designed to help you live your best life. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasties Podcast 00:49 Discussing Boundaries 02:07 Introducing Guest Henry Amar 02:55 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:09 Interview with Henry Amar: Hidden Dangers of Extremes 13:00 Boobs in the News: Funny and Ridiculous Stories 16:38 Hilarious Hospital Drive Stories 18:11 Navigating Toxic Relationships Post-Treatment 19:41 The Cost of Staying in Toxic Situations 22:13 Setting Boundaries with Love and Compassion 24:36 The Importance of Honest Conversations 30:24 Final Thoughts and Sponsor Message 31:06 A Personal Story of Love and Loss https://www.henryammar.com/ Henry Ammar is a Human Behavior Expert and impact entrepreneur who hosts the Podcast, “Making It Happen with Henry Ammar.” The podcast hit #1 in the Training Category and #6 in the Education Category on the iTunes Charts. As a keynote speaker, he has positively impacted people across the globe, speaking to audiences as big as 35,000+ people at a time. Henry is also published in Forbes and is a two-time TEDx speaker.

S5E23: Empowered Healing: Bridging Traditional and Integrative Cancer Care by Beth Wilmes & Sarah Hall