Baddie 2 Baddie Breast Cancer Podcast

Baddie 2 Baddie: Survivor Stories: Triumph and Resilience

Welcome to the Baddie 2 Baddie podcast, where we delve into real survivor stories and celebrate the resilience of women of color facing breast cancer.
In this episode, we have Dwan, a 7-year breast cancer survivor, sharing her journey with hosts Tesha. Dwan's initial reluctance to share her cancer journey as an introvert and her struggle with depression post-treatment shed light on the emotional complexities of survivorship. Meanwhile, Tesha opens up about her own hesitations and eventual empowerment to advocate for cancer awareness.
Together, they emphasize the importance of sharing stories, building community, and advocating for better awareness and treatment for women of color. These powerful conversations on resilience, self-advocacy, and finding strength within sisterhood will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
So, join us as we navigate the highs and lows of the survivor experience, and discover the unexpected joy and empowerment that can emerge from these challenges.
A note about our sponsor, Eli Lily!
Hey Baddies! We want to take a quick minute to shout out to our amazing sponsor, Eli Lilly, for supporting our mission on Baddie 2 Baddie! Because of their generosity, we can keep these important conversations about breast cancer awareness and advocacy going strong for our community of WOC. Big love to Eli Lilly for standing with us!
About our guest Dwan:
Dwan Thomas is a breast cancer survivor in Houston, Texas. Born in Virginia, she moved up and down the east coast, and has lived in Texas on and off since 2005. She is a chemical engineer and has worked for large companies and run small businesses related to oil and gas, industrial service, consumer products andhealthcare. She is also a mother to two teenage sons and wife to her college sweetheart.
In 2017, she was diagnosed with late-stage 2, invasive ductal, HER2-negative, estrogen-positive breast cancer at age 36. At MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dwan underwent 6 months of chemotherapy, 4 weeks of radiation, 4 surgeries and 3 months of physical therapy. The time from diagnosis to the last PT session wasabout 3 years, with 9 months of active treatment.
In the beginning, she relied on a small circle of family and friends. Then in late summer 2017, her cancer treatment and general way of life took a turn. She had just started the second, much tougher chemo regimen and was still trying to go full speed with work, kids, etc. Her body shut down, and she ended up in the ER and hospital for observation. Meanwhile, Hurricane Harvey was headed towards Houston. Ultimately, her home, belongings and children’s school were destroyed in the catastrophic flood. At that point, she had no choice but to let God move an extended village into her life. Family, friends, coworkers and community near and far rallied to help pull through the remaining cancer treatment and year-long recovery from the flood.
Today, Dwan fundraises and advocates for cancer resources (education, research, prevention, access to treatment, etc.). She is a Thriver for The V Foundation for Cancer Research and a member of the Advance Team (volunteer board) at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
About For the Breast of Us
For the Breast of Us is the first inclusive community dedicated to supporting women of color affected by breast cancer. Our mission is to amplify the voices, experiences, and needs of this diverse community by providing resources, support, and education tailored to their unique challenges. Each episode of our podcast delves into topics that range from personal survivor stories and expert health insights to advocacy efforts and wellness strategies, all designed to empower and uplift. Join us as we build a vibrant network of support and transform the narrative of breast cancer survivorship for women of color.
Make sure to follow us on social media:
IG & Threads: @forthebreastofus
Twitter: @thebreastofus
Facebook: For the Breast of Us @forthebreastofus
Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies
On the Web: www.breastofus.com
Baddie Behavior and Baddie 2 Baddie original theme music, podcast production, and mixing by Sincere529 (www.sincere529.com or IG: @bewareofthepoet)

Let's Talk Lymphedema with Dr. Sheri Prentiss: Insights for Breast Cancer Survivors

In this episode of Baddie 2 Baddie, Marissa and Dr. Sheri dive deep into the importance of lymphedema awareness in the breast cancer community, especially for women of color. Dr. Sheri Prentiss, founder of the Live Today Foundation, shares her personal experience with arm lymphedema after undergoing breast cancer surgery. The conversation delves into the need for better education and proactive prevention strategies for patients at risk of developing lymphedema. Dr. Prentiss provides invaluable insights, practical advice, and resources to empower women to advocate for themselves and prioritize their survivorship. Tune in to gain a wealth of knowledge and support for navigating the complexities of breast cancer and lymphedema.
Dr. Sheri Prentiss, MD, MPH, CPS/A, CPE, FACPE, the founder of the Live Today Foundation, knows firsthand the challenges of living with neuropathy and lymphedema as a result of chemotherapy. She understands the difficulty of distinguishing between the symptoms and the pain that can come with these conditions. Even though she didn't have visible swelling, she felt tightness, heaviness, and pressure, as well as increased pain. Sheri is passionate about raising awareness and providing support for those dealing with similar experiences, and she is dedicated to helping others live their best lives despite these challenges. The Live Today Foundation is a reflection of her commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by neuropathy and lymphedema.
 
A cancer diagnosis changes everything. As a woman of color, where do you go or who do you turn to when you’re in the midst of the fight of your life? You search online for stories and images of women who’ve gone through treatment and look like you, but you find little to nothing. That’s where For the Breast of Us comes in. Baddie 2 Baddie is the podcast by For the Breast of Us hosted by the FTBOU Team where we share real life experiences, education and information to help you live you best life after a breast cancer diagnosis. Baddie Behavior is the safe space for survivors and thrivers to get all the way raw about how breast cancer changes our bodies, sex lives and relationships.
Learn more by visiting www.breastofus.com and follow us on social media @forthebreastofus.

Unveiling Healthcare Disparities: Insights from the Chemo Diva

In this episode of Baddie 2 Baddie, hosts Tesha delves into the critical topic of healthcare disparities for black and brown women facing breast cancer. Joined by Tatiana from Chemo Divas Foundation, the conversation highlights the challenges of representation in clinical trials, the emotional toll of cancer on women of color, and the financial burden of medical treatment.
The episode emphasizes the importance of sharing stories, destigmatizing cancer, and promoting better healthcare participation and representation for women of color in breast cancer campaigns. With valuable insights and personal experiences, this episode sheds light on the vital work of organizations like Chemo Divas in supporting women of color impacted by cancer. Tune in as Tesha, a breast cancer survivor, and Marissa provide valuable resources and encourage listeners to subscribe to the Baddie 2 Baddie podcast.
Chemo Divas Foundation is a community of patients, survivors, caregivers & advocates on a mission to close the racial health equity gap.  We're helping women of color navigate cancer care
A cancer diagnosis changes everything. As a woman of color, where do you go or who do you turn to when you’re in the midst of the fight of your life? You search online for stories and images of women who’ve gone through treatment and look like you, but you find little to nothing. That’s where For the Breast of Us comes in. Baddie 2 Baddie is the podcast by For the Breast of Us hosted by the FTBOU Team where we share real life experiences, education and information to help you live you best life after a breast cancer diagnosis. Baddie Behavior is the safe space for survivors and thrivers to get all the way raw about how breast cancer changes our bodies, sex lives and relationships.
Learn more by visiting www.breastofus.com and follow us on social media @forthebreastofus.

Impacts of Advocacy: Empowering Stories of Women of Color in the Breast Cancer Community

Welcome to the Baddie 2 Baddie podcast, where we dive into candid conversations about the experiences and challenges faced by women of color dealing with breast cancer. In this episode, host Tesha along with the remarkable Dr. Morgan Mitchell, a breast cancer survivor and advocate, delve into the importance of support groups and the power of shared experiences.
We explore the therapeutic value of connecting with individuals who understand the unique journey of battling breast cancer as a woman of color, and the need for tailored support groups in this community. Join us as we navigate the complexities of health care advocacy, cultural barriers, and the impact of practical support in facing a cancer diagnosis. Listen in as we unpack the resilience and magic of black people and the significance of advocacy in making a difference in breast cancer outcomes for women of color. Get ready for an insightful and empowering conversation that addresses the importance of self-advocacy, early detection, and the strength found in shared experiences.
 
A cancer diagnosis changes everything. As a woman of color, where do you go or who do you turn to when you’re in the midst of the fight of your life? You search online for stories and images of women who’ve gone through treatment and look like you, but you find little to nothing. That’s where For the Breast of Us comes in. Baddie 2 Baddie is the podcast by For the Breast of Us hosted by the FTBOU Team where we share real life experiences, education and information to help you live you best life after a breast cancer diagnosis. Baddie Behavior is the safe space for survivors and thrivers to get all the way raw about how breast cancer changes our bodies, sex lives and relationships.
Learn more by visiting www.breastofus.com and follow us on social media @forthebreastofus.

Badie Behavior: Sexual Healing- Embracing Pleasure and Body Confidence

Baddie 2 Baddie is catching up on all things baddie behavior! From body positivity to sexual empowerment, Cynthia and April dive deep into the topics that matter. 
Tune in to their latest episode for a refreshing perspective on self-love and sensuality. 💖✨ #Baddie2Baddie
About our Hosts
April is a cool high school counselor in South Carolina. She was diagnosed at 35 with Stage II, Triple Negative Breast Cancer and BRAC1+. April is a single southern belle looking to share her testimony and advocate for women of color who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is the proud mother of a miniature pincher named Gigi.
Cynthia was diagnosed with Stage II Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in 2018 one year before she was old enough to begin regular mammograms. After a lumpectomy, chemo, and radiation, Cynthia is currently undergoing hormone therapy. To cope, Cynthia shared her journey candidly on social media.  This led her to educate and advocate about breast cancer and health disparities. Cynthia lives by the mantra, "If you've got to go through it, GLOW through it."  An educator by day, at night Cynthia glows by volunteering her time as a Baddie Ambassador with For The Breast of Us, an Advocacy Ambassador for the Susan G. Komen Center for Public Policy, a certified global educator with the Know Your Lemons Foundation, a member of Alpha Kappa Sorority, Inc. and a proud Bajan Baddie!
 
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Perifit (https://perifit.co/): Strengthen your pelvic floor with games.
Ask Goody (https://www.askgoody.com/):  Goody Howard is a world-renown sexologist, educator, and consultant. 
Sensual Sweet Coaching (https://www.instagram.com/sensualsweetcoaching/) Pleasure Doula and host of the Solo Pleasure Challenge

Baddie 2 Baddie: Beauty & the Baddie: Permanent Makeup

On this episode of Baddie 2 Baddie, April and Cynthia dive into the world of paramedical tattooing and its importance for women of color, particularly survivors of cancer.  Joined by Nina Austin, a three-time cancer survivor and speech pathologist, and Zuri, a permanent makeup artist, and epidemiologist based in Houston, the baddies learn about Nina's 3D areola tattoo and how permanent makeup such as scar reduction, eyebrows and more can restore self-confidence and a sense of normalcy in survivorship.  
This episode highlights the need for representation and skill as it relates to women of color, self-care and insurance coverage for nipple mound and areola restoration. Zuri also offers advice on how to safely get permanent makeup services and who to trust for the best results.  
About our guests:
Nina is a three-time cancer survivor.  Nina is a third-generation breast cancer survivor who is BRCA+ and has battled breast cancer twice.  Most recently, she battled uterine cancer.  By day, Nina is a speech pathologist in Houston.  Nina bravely volunteered to be a live model, and received her 3D areola tattoo on stage to ensure that women of color were appropriately trained to provide paramedical tattooing on women of color.  
 Zuri has been a lifelong lover of makeup. In 2018, she expanded her services to semi-permanent makeup and has since gained 10 certifications in the field. Zuri’s artistic eye coupled with attention to detail has allowed her to progress in the world of both makeup both traditional and semi-permanent. Zuri is an avid learner and holds a Bachelors degree in Biology from Texas Southern University and two Masters's degrees from Texas A&M University. As a perfectionist , she aims to make each client look their best with an emphasis on the integrity of the skin and stable healed work. Zuri is continually upgrading, learning, and developing new techniques, and her understanding of art and skin science transfers wonderfully into the art of micropigmentation. Zuri is a licensed tattoo artist in the state of Texas and was awarded the PMU Women of Color Award for Best New Artist in 2019, SHEEO of the Year in 2022, and the Best Speaker in Science of Permanent Makeup Award in 2022.
Outside of PMU, Zuri is a trained scientist. With a background in the sciences, Zuri developed a training program that hyperfocuses on bridging the gap between the art and science of PMU. Zuri avidly believes that is the science of PMU that yields stellar results and this is what sets us apart in service and training. We focus on the scientific principles of skin physiology, pigment chemistry, the science of skin, and infectious diseases to perform safe services with lasting stable results.
Outside of Artistry By Zuri, Zuri is employed as an Epidemiologist.  You can find Zuri on the web and Instagram by visiting @artistrybyzuri
About our Hosts
April is a cool high school counselor in South Carolina. She was diagnosed at 35 with Stage II, Triple Negative Breast Cancer and BRAC1+. April is a single southern belle looking to share her testimony and advocate for women of color who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is the proud mother of a miniature pincher named Gigi.
Cynthia was diagnosed with Stage II Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in 2018 one year before she was old enough to begin regular mammograms. After a lumpectomy, chemo, and radiation, Cynthia is currently undergoing hormone therapy. To cope, Cynthia shared her journey candidly on social media.  This led her to educate and advocate about breast cancer and health disparities. Cynthia lives by the mantra, "If you've got to go through it, GLOW through it."  An educator by day, at night Cynthia glows by volunteering her time as a Baddie Ambassador with For The Breast of Us, an Advocacy Ambassador for the Susan G. Komen Center for Public Policy, a certified global educator with the Know Your Lemons Foundation, a member of Alpha Kappa Sorority, Inc. and a proud Bajan Baddie!

Baddie 2 Baddie: Love & Cancer Special Episode- Ray & Ros

The For the Breast of Us Baddies are back with Season 2 of Baddie 2 Baddie. 
Love & Cancer Special Episode: Ray & Ros
Millions of people across the world fell in love with Ray & Ros after they candidly shared their journey through brain cancer.  Collectively, we mourned as news of Ros' passing went viral. On this episode of Baddie 2 Baddie, we join Ray as he shares his journey with his wife through her battle with brain cancer. Ray talks about loving Ros, how he deals with his grief, and how he's helped build a community of support.  Ray's mission now is to carry on her legacy and inspire others to fight their battles with the same strength and determination that defined Roslyn's journey.
Ray Singleton (@willie_qool, www.theraysingleton.com) is a serial entrepreneur, singer, songwriter, musician, and public speaker from Charleston, SC. In early 2020, a video of him serenading his beautiful wife, Roslyn Singleton, before her 2nd surgery to remove a brain tumor went viral and stole the hearts of millions, including Ellen DeGeneres!! Ray has been singing and performing all of his life with one of his biggest performances being on Season 16 of America's Got Talent where he received YES's from ALL FOUR JUDGES. On November 15, 2022, Ray's beautiful wife Roslyn passed away after a 12-year battle with brain cancer. Ray has devoted his life to continuing the memory and legacy of his wife and spreading her message of positivity around the world. Through his music and speaking engagements, he continues to promote positivity, fun, and love! After seeing Ray Singleton live in person, I promise you won’t forget the experience!! 
Hosted by Marissa and Cynthia.
 

Baddie 2 Baddie: Love & Cancer | Deb and Joel

Love is a beautiful thing. Whether romantic or platonic, we as humans crave love in all forms.
So we asked ourselves, how are thrivers and survivors navigating their relationships?
FTBOU CoFounder and CEO Marissa sat down with Breast Cancer Baddie Deb and her partner Joel for a candid conversation to discuss their relationship and how Deb's diagnosis of Metastatic Breast Cancer has impacted it.
 
Make sure to follow us on social media: IG: forthebreastofus Twitter: thebreastofus Facebook: For the Breast of Us Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies Breastofus.com
 
Baddie Behavior and Baddie 2 Baddie original theme music, podcast production, and mixing by Sincere529 (www.sincere529.com)

Baddie 2 Baddie: Love & Cancer | Aisha and Jamille

Love is a beautiful thing.
Whether romantic or platonic, we as humans crave love in all forms.
So we asked ourselves, how are thrivers and survivors navigating their relationships? FTBOU CoFounder and CEO Marissa sat down with Breast Cancer Baddie Aisha and her partner Jamille for a candid conversation to discuss their relationship and how cancer has impacted it.
 
Make sure to follow us on social media: IG: forthebreastofus Twitter: thebreastofus Facebook: For the Breast of Us Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies Breastofus.com
 
Baddie Behavior and Baddie 2 Baddie original theme music, podcast production, and mixing by Sincere529 (www.sincere529.com)

Baddie 2 Baddie: Bonus Episode- Thriving AF with MBC

Baddie 2 Baddie: Thriving AF with MBC
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, most of the focus is on early-stagers or those diagnosed with breast cancer in the stages of I, II and III. But what about our sisters living and thriving with Metastatic Breast Cancer? Here at FTBOU we’re all about taking some action boss so for this Breast Cancer ACTION Month, we talked to a few Baddies thriving with MBC. We wanted to know what it’s like living with MBC, how they navigate it as mothers, sisters and partners and what they would want the world to know about women of color and MBC. 
 
You don’t want to miss it! Tap in to listen and learn more!
With our MBC Baddies:
Deb Ontiveros is originally from Los Angeles but resides in Southern Utah. She is a Spanish/English Interpreter & Translator. Deb was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in April 2018. She spends her extra time advocating for breast cancer and mental health issues.  You can find her on IG  @deb4peace247  https://www.facebook.com/DEB4PEACE  Twitter: @deb4peace247
Deltra James is a Connecticut-based mama of five amazing girls who she strives to raise with cultural and health awareness. She's a chain tea drinker, wig hoarder, and lover of singing loudly and dancing unabashedly. Since being diagnosed with Triple Negative MBC de novo in 2019 she has focused on thriving through education, advocacy, connecting, and radical self-care. She is passionate about mental and emotional wellness, creative expression as a means of coping, community building, and connecting BIPOC women with people and spaces that can care for their whole selves. She is a member of Cactus Cancer Society's YAC advisory board, the inaugural class of For the Breast of Us Baddie Ambassador, the Our MBC Life podcast staff and serves as Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator for Project Life MBC. You can follow her at:  Deltra Tatiana (@deltra_does_it) • Instagram photos and videos
 
Eboney Thompson is a passionate author, speaker, and Transformation Mindset and Business Consultant/ Coach. She has self-published 11 of her own books which have been sold across the country. Her most recent being her tell all testimonial of the beginning stages of her battling Stage 4 Breast Cancer entitled “The Hustle Journey”. Her collection of materials also includes poetry, inspirational devotionals, and self- help workbooks.
Eboney is also Founder/CEO of HNH Coaching & Consulting Ltd Co. which is her Transformation Mindset Coaching and Consulting business. Her goal when working with women is to help them create balance in their lives and business so they do not experience burnout or stress. She also empowers them to see, accept, love and be the best version of themselves while living out God’s purpose. And she leads by example. She also is the Founder of “The Healing Factor” a group/program geared towards aiding those battling breast cancers with resources that will help them with bills, medicines, rides to doctors, alternative treatments and help/counseling for their families.
Eboney’s work has appeared in several online magazines and radio shows. When she is not working with her clients, she is going out and speaking to others about Gods goodness, living their best lives and overcoming obstacles. When the workday is done, you can find Eboney enjoying her life with her 4 children and dogs Zoey and Tony in Sunny Southern California, reading, doing youth ministry, or just loving life.
 
Make sure to follow us on social media:
IG: forthebreastofus
Twitter: thebreastofus
Facebook: For the Breast of Us
Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies
Breastofus.com 
Baddie Behavior and Baddie 2 Baddie original theme music, podcast production, and mixing by Sincere529 (www.sincere529.com)