In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with Neal K. Shah — TEDx speaker, former hedge fund manager, and now social entrepreneur reshaping the caregiving economy.

After building a multi-billion-dollar hedge fund in his 20s, Neal’s life changed dramatically when cancer struck his wife. As her primary caregiver, he experienced firsthand the crushing financial toxicity, social isolation, and emotional toll caregivers face.

Today, Neal runs social enterprises tackling the caregiving crisis, has authored Insured to Death, and is exposing how AI is being weaponized by insurance companies to deny life-saving care.

This conversation covers:

The untold burden on family caregivers

Why health insurance often fails in catastrophic illness

How financial toxicity devastates households

The rise of AI-driven claim denials

Neal’s mission to “arm the resistance” with AI tools for patients

If you’ve ever wondered why healthcare feels broken — or how we can fix it — this episode will leave you informed and inspired.

🧑‍💼 Guest Bio

Neal K. Shah is a TEDx speaker, investor-turned-social entrepreneur, and caregiver advocate. Formerly a hedge fund partner by his late 20s, Neal left finance after his wife’s cancer battle to focus on fixing the broken caregiving system. He is the founder of multiple social enterprises, a national leader in the caregiving movement, and author of Insured to Death: How Health Insurance Screws Over Americans and How We Take It Back.

⏱️ Chapter Timecodes

00:00 – Introduction & Neal’s background

02:00 – From hedge funds to caregiving

05:00 – The hidden burden on family caregivers

08:00 – Why caregiving is isolating and overlooked

10:20 – ICU, coma, and decision-making as caregiver

14:00 – How caregiving changes your personality

16:20 – The financial toxicity of illness

19:00 – Writing Insured to Death

23:30 – Weaponization of AI by insurers

28:40 – Medical bankruptcy and broken insurance

31:15 – Singapore vs. U.S. healthcare models

34:30 – Positive uses of AI for patient advocacy

37:30 – Rapid fire: rights, myths, and advice

44:00 – Closing thoughts

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Grief is not one-size-fits-all. In this episode of The Patient From Hell, grief coach Holly Gainsboro breaks down anticipatory grief after a cancer diagnosis (incl. glioblastoma/GBM), the harm of “be strong,” and simple daily practices that actually help patients, caregivers, and clinicians. We cover how to talk to kids after diagnosis, caregiver exhaustion, why grief isn’t linear, and what to ask when seeking a therapist with real grief training.

About Our Guest:

Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a Grief Coach/Support Specialist & Grief Educator. Holly’s late husband, Steven, died in December 2010, from glioblastoma. Holly began her work in the grief field more than a decade ago, earning her first certification as a Grief Recovery Specialist. She continued her studies and received her certification as a Grief Educator with world renowned grief expert, David Kessler, as well as being certified as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. Holly believes that learning never stops and recently completed another training and certification as a Grief & Loss Provider with Claire Bidwell Smith. Holly recognizes that grievers don’t need to be fixed, they need to be heard, seen, and supported. Holly’s passion/purpose is to be present for those who have experienced losses by guiding them through the feelings of grief and leading them to a place of peace and hope while honoring their relationships/experiences. Holly says," I normalize grief and invite growth and learning throughout the journey using a heart centered, and holistic approach.”

Holly works 1:1 with women who have lost a loved one to a brain tumor or are caring for a loved one diagnosed with a brain tumor, facilitates grief support groups, and leads grief education workshops for various organizations. She is the co-host of the podcast Creating Space for Grief & Hope. What you’ll learn:What anticipatory grief is (and why it’s not just anticipating death)How to support a spouse/partner & children after a GBM diagnosisThe difference between platitudes and evidence-informed supportPractical tools: movement, journaling, nature, hydration, restWhy feeling your feelings = real strength

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Tags:

grief, anticipatory grief, glioblastoma, GBM, brain tumor, cancer caregiving, caregiver support, oncology, oncology support, patient advocacy, grief coach, grief educator, grief myths, grief practices, palliative care, bereavement, grief tools, cancer diagnosis, mental health in medicine, The Patient From Hell, Manta Cares

Samira is joined by legal expert, patient advocate, and author Rebecca — a powerhouse voice in the cancer and healthcare world. Rebecca shares her unique journey from big law to breast cancer advocacy, and offers practical, game-changing advice for patients navigating diagnosis, treatment, insurance, and employment.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand your rights, this conversation is a masterclass in layered patient advocacy.

👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell.

About Our Guest:

Rebecca Bloom is a Yale College and New York University School of Law educated patient and workplace advocate. A former workplace and benefits attorney, Rebecca’s longest and proudest affiliation is with Bay Area Cancer Connections, where she has served as a patient advocate and healthcare, insurance and workplace advisor for women fighting breast and ovarian cancer for 25 years. Rebecca was a contributing writer and editor for Breast Cancer in the Workplace, published by the Northern California Cancer Center in the early 2000s. The book has recently been updated, expanded and reissued by the Cancer Prevention Institute of California and is now titled Working with Cancer.Rebecca serves as a listener, learner, supporter and advocate for the clients of Bay Area Cancer Connections, primarily one at a time but also in groups that she’s led and conferences where she’s presented.

When she worked as a lawyer, her clients were companies, and she brings that perspective to her interactions with BACC clients and other people on whose behalf she advocates. Her knowledge of the complex rules that employers, insurers and medical providers follow, as well as the dynamics and incentives that exist between stakeholders helps her give the women she supports a constructive and comprehensive foundation so that they can integrate all available information with comfort and confidence and focus on recovery and wellness. Rebecca is also a professional storytelling coach, helping her clients get their stories told and shared.⏱️

CHAPTERS / TIMECODES

00:00 – Cancer Bills, Greed & the Broken System

01:00 – Meet Rebecca: Legal Ninja-Turned-Advocate

03:50 – What Changed in 26 Years of Oncology Work

06:45 – Why the Maze Is More Complex Today

09:50 – The Rise of the Medical Industrial Complex

11:40 – How Tech Complicates Cancer Care

13:00 – The Story Behind Her New Book

16:00 – Advocacy Success Story: Karen’s Journey

20:00 – How to Talk to Insurers & Employers (Magic Words)

23:30 – Legal Advice: Your Benefits Are Yours — Take Them

26:00 – Drafting Your Support Team (Like a Startup CEO)

28:40 – The Hidden Risk of Insurance Plan Changes

31:15 – Rapid Fire: Insurance, FMLA, Disability, COBRA Explained

38:55 – Other Hidden Workplace Benefits Most Patients Miss

40:35 – If You Could Fix One Thing About Healthcare...

41:30 – What Being a "Patient from Hell" Really Means

42:00 – Closing Thoughts and One Thing to Remember

Takeaways:

Rebecca Bloom's diverse background includes law, advocacy, and storytelling.

Stories of hope can empower patients and provide valuable insights.

Understanding your rights as a patient is essential for effective advocacy.

Insurance complexities can create barriers to care that patients must navigate.

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Samira and guest Chris Schuler delve into the emotional and practical challenges faced during the cancer diagnosis and treatment process. Chris shares his personal experiences as a caregiver for his father diagnosed with glioblastoma, highlighting the confusion and fear that accompany such news. The conversation explores the importance of understanding treatment options, the role of family in caregiving, and the complex emotions of grief that arise during this journey. Chris emphasizes the need for clear communication and advocacy in healthcare, as well as the disconnect between the information provided and the emotional realities faced by families.

About our Guest:

Chris is a staunch brain cancer awareness advocate. He was the primary caregiver to his late Dad, Donald Schuler, who was diagnosed with GBM in July 2021. He works closely with organizations across the globe, amplifying their critical work and building key relationships to further improve outcomes for patients.

His career has spanned almost two decades through philanthropic roles in a variety of industries including non-profit, public and private higher education, and healthcare.

He's currently working with Cure Brain Cancer Foundation, an Australian non-profit dedicated to improving outcomes in brain cancer. He's a Venture Partner with Varia Ventures, working to raise awareness for emerging venture funds dedicated to uncovering and funding innovative discoveries to improve brain health. He also works closely with SageMedic, a precision oncology start-up supporting patients looking for the most effective treatment for cancer.

Takeaways

Chris felt a sense of responsibility to support his parents after the diagnosis.

The emotional impact of a terminal diagnosis can be overwhelming.

Understanding treatment options is crucial for caregivers.

Grief can manifest differently in family members during a health crisis.

Clear communication from healthcare providers is essential.

Many caregivers feel lost in the healthcare system.

The binder provided by the hospital was not helpful for Chris or his mom.

Caregiving involves navigating complex emotions and responsibilities.

Patients and families need to advocate for themselves in medical settings.

The experience of receiving a terminal diagnosis is traumatic and disorienting.

The feeling of helplessness is a common struggle for caregivers.

Chris's mother chose not to Google her husband's condition, living in the moment instead.

Chris believes there are hidden joys in caregiving, despite the challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of Caregiving

02:54 Navigating the Diagnosis Process

05:54 The Emotional Impact of a Terminal Diagnosis

08:50 Understanding Treatment Options and Next Steps

11:53 The Role of Family in Caregiving

15:07 Grief and Its Manifestations in Caregiving

17:56 The Disconnect Between Information and Understanding

25:00 Navigating Cancer: A Personal Journey

31:48 The Search for Answers: Clinical Trials and Second Opinions

39:51 The Emotional Toll: Grief, Faith, and Resilience

46:49 The Caregiver's Perspective: Finding Joy Amidst Sorrow

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Vicki McGrath, an exercise physiologist specializing in breast cancer recovery. They discuss Vicki's journey into creating exercise programs for breast cancer patients, the importance of movement and setting achievable goals during recovery, and personal stories of patients who have benefited from her programs. The conversation also covers the challenges of lymphedema, advice for newly diagnosed and metastatic patients, and the significance of functional fitness in enhancing quality of life post-treatment.

About Our Guest:

Vicki McGrath's career is a testament to her dedication to both fitness and cancer care, as well as her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by health challenges. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and wellness, Vicki has developed a deep expertise that spans a variety of populations, from individuals with special health needs to those recovering from cancer. Her extensive qualifications, including certifications from the American College of Sports Medicine (Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer, Health Fitness Director, Exercise Physiologist, and Exercise is Medicine) and her specialization in cancer exercise, position her as a highly skilled professional in the wellness community.

In 2024, Vicki's passion for cancer advocacy deepened when she joined the Board of Directors at Bay Area Cancer Connections, solidifying her leadership in the cancer support community. Her recent graduation from the Project Lead Institute through the National Breast Cancer Coalition further highlights her commitment to health promotion and cancer advocacy. This combination of experience and education allows Vicki to make a lasting impact, advocating for both cancer prevention and support while empowering individuals through her work and leadership.

Vicki's dedication to bridging fitness and cancer care continues to make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals, demonstrating her as both a health expert and a passionate advocate for cancer support and prevention.

Takeaways:

Vicki McGrath transitioned from personal training to focus on wellness for breast cancer patients. She created exercise programs due to a lack of resources for athletes recovering from breast cancer. The program has helped over 215 women since its inception in 2011. Personal stories highlight the emotional and physical impact of exercise on recovery. Setting realistic goals is crucial for patients at different stages of treatment. Functional fitness focuses on flexibility, strength, and balance for daily activities.

Movement is essential for improving energy levels during treatment. Lymphedema management includes breathing techniques and gentle exercises. Post-treatment exercise is vital for maintaining lean body mass and overall health.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:08 The Journey into Breast Cancer Exercise Programs

06:09 Impact on Patients: Personal Stories

08:55 Setting Goals in Recovery11:57 Functional Fitness Explained

14:57 The Importance of Movement and Exercise

17:48 Navigating Post-Treatment Fitness20:58 Lymphedema: Understanding and Management

23:50 Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients

27:07 Advice for Metastatic Patients

30:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Alyssa Wachley shares her journey as a stage three breast cancer survivor and the founder of Warriors That Pray, a jewelry line that supports cancer warriors. She discusses the emotional and spiritual challenges faced during her diagnosis, the importance of community and prayer, and how her faith evolved through adversity. Alyssa emphasizes the significance of connection and support for those battling cancer, and shares inspiring stories of how her organization has made a difference in people's lives.

Warriors That Pray website: https://www.warriorsthatpray.com/

Warriors That Pray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorsthatpray/

About Our Guest:Alyssa Wakeley | Founder of Warriors That PrayAlyssa Wakeley, with a heart for serving others, founded Warriors That Pray on the belief that every person is uniquely created with a purpose to fulfill. As a wife, mother, and devoted dog-lover, she strives to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around her, offering encouragement and hope to those facing difficult times.

In 2020, at just 27 years old, Alyssa was diagnosed with breast cancer—a life-altering moment that could have defined her. Instead, she chose to walk through the journey with unwavering faith and a positive spirit. Refusing to let cancer steal her joy, she became a source of strength and inspiration to those around her, from family and friends to her medical team. Her resilience and deep-rooted faith carried her through the toughest moments, reminding her that she was never alone.

Now cancer-free, Alyssa is living life to the fullest and using her experience to uplift others. Out of her journey, Warriors That Pray was born—a movement designed to encourage and support those navigating their own battles. Through prayer bracelets, she offers a tangible reminder that even in the valley, God is with you… and PRAYER CHANGES THINGS.

Alyssa’s mission is clear: to spread hope, faith, and love, reminding others that no matter the challenge, they are seen, valued, and never alone. Through WTP, she continues to make a lasting impact, trusting in God's plan and using her story to bring light to those in need.

Takeaways:

You're allowed to feel that way when diagnosed with cancer.

Community support was crucial during Alyssa's treatment.

Warriors That Pray was founded to give back to cancer warriors.

Jewelry serves as a tangible reminder of support and encouragement.

Prayer played a significant role in Alyssa's healing journey.

Everyone's faith journey is unique and valid.

It's important to advocate for yourself in medical settings.

Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

Connection is vital for those going through tough times.

Alyssa's organization aims to bless others and foster community.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Faith and Cancer Diagnosis

03:04 The Birth of Warriors That Pray

05:55 The Role of Prayer in Healing

08:59 Personal Growth Through Adversity

11:59 Creating Community and Connection

15:03 Rapid Fire Insights and Advice

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Tags:

faith, cancer, prayer, community, support, healing, Warriors That Pray, personal growth, adversity, connection

Valerie David, also known as The Pink Hulk, is a three-time cancer survivor (non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, stage 2 breast cancer, and stage 4 metastatic breast cancer) who turned her journey of resilience into an award-winning one-woman show. Through humor, raw honesty, and advocacy, she inspires audiences worldwide—proving that even cancer won’t stop her from taking center stage.

Check out Valerie’s show, The Pink Hulk here: https://pinkhulkplay.com

Key Highlights:

- Valerie trusted her inner voice when symptoms appeared, even when doctors initially dismissed them. If you are able to get second opinions, advocate for yourself, and listen to your gut, you’ll find this to be useful in other parts of your own life.

- Balancing intuition with fear over symptoms can be tricky, but Valerie advises: don’t panic over nothing, don’t choose to live in fear. Instead, stay proactive by communicating with your care team about any arising symptoms.

About our guest:

Valerie David is an actor, playwright, writer and editor. Her greatest accomplishment in life is being a three-time cancer survivor. She was diagnosed and treated for Stage III Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1999, Stage II Breast Cancer in 2014 and 2015, and Stage IV Breast Cancer in 2018.

As of April 2019, she has beaten cancer again! Valerie reactivated her superhero within, and exactly 5 months after receiving hormone treatment only in pill form–no surgery, no radiation, no chemotherapy, Valerie no longer has active disease. She has since kept up a full schedule of performances–nothing has stopped her. Valerie’s inspirational solo show, The Pink Hulk, has been accepted into almost 50 different play festivals worldwide since its 2016 debut, won multiple awards and has been touring since its very first performance, impacting audiences with the show’s universal message of hope and empowerment. She has performed in over 25 different cities and globally, including in England, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland.

A graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, her credits include the Off-Broadway production of A Stoop on Orchard Street, Cookie in Rumors and Claudia Shear’s Blown Sideways Through Life. Films: How I Became that Jewish Guy, which premiered at a November 2015 NYC Film Festival, and Bridges and Tunnels. Valerie volunteers as a motivational speaker at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training events and Make-A-Wish Foundation. As a marathon cyclist, she co-founded Cycle of Hope, which raises money for national and international cancer organizations through bike marathons. Her most recent biking event raised almost $5,000 for the American Cancer Society and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Key Moments:

At 7 minutes 28 seconds “What is my choice? Is my choice going to live in fear every single day? Is it going to be well, we'll deal with it when it happens. So I think what I've learned from cancer is don't worry until there's something to worry about.”

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Samira, a breast cancer survivor and CEO of Manta Cares, discusses the latest advancements in cancer treatment with Dr. Doug Blayney at the ASCO conference. They explore the significant impact of exercise on cancer treatment tolerance and survival, the de-escalation of chemotherapy, the introduction of new therapies like SERDs and antibody drug conjugates, and the role of circulating tumor DNA in monitoring cancer recurrence. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patient convenience and self-advocacy in cancer care.

About Our Guest:

Douglas W. Blayney, MD is a Professor of Medicine (Oncology), Emeritus, former Medical Director of Stanford Cancer Center, and specializes in the treatment of breast cancer. He has a special interest in the quality and value of cancer care. Dr. Blayney is a past president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), a founder of the ASCO Quality Symposium, a co-author of the ASCO value framework descriptions, and instigated the ASCO clinical "big data" effort, which is now CancerLinQ. He received the inaugural Ellen Stovall Award for Leadership in Patient Centered Care from the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship in 2016. He was previously a Professor of Internal Medicine and Medical Director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Michigan, and prior to that practiced and led Wilshire Oncology Medical Group, Inc. a physician owned multidisciplinary oncology practice in southern California. He has expertise on clinical trial development, use of oncology drugs in clinical practice, reimbursement and marketing strategies and information technology use.

Chapter Codes

00:00 The Impact of Exercise on Cancer Treatment

02:00 Interview at ASCO Starts

06:00 Advancements in Cancer Treatment: De-escalation and AI

11:52 Emerging Therapies: SERDs and Antibody Drug Conjugates

18:11 Circulating Tumor DNA: A New Frontier in Monitoring

24:01 Convenience in Cancer Care: A Patient-Centric Approach

Takeaways

- Regular exercise can increase tolerance to cancer treatments.

- Data shows exercise has tangible benefits on survival rates.

- De-escalation of chemotherapy is a key focus in cancer treatment.

- AI is being integrated into cancer treatment guidelines.

- Patients can take proactive steps to improve their health.

- Oral SIRDs are emerging as a more convenient treatment option.- Antibody drug conjugates target cancer cells with fewer side effects.

- Circulating tumor DNA can help detect cancer recurrence earlier.

- Convenience in treatment is becoming a priority for patients.

- Competition among treatments may help reduce costs for patients.

Tags & Keywords:

cancer treatment, ASCO, exercise, AI, SIRDs, antibody drug conjugates, circulating tumor DNA, patient care, chemotherapy, cancer survival, health technology

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.

Listen Elsewhere:

Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://youtu.be/UjsAtpbedA8 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7HwhjXHZU0ZWWVkXrCSV7V?si=d5e986f0885a4bbb Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cervical-cancer-and-hpv-what-you-need-to-know/id1622669098?i=1000710235401

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.