Episodes

  • Menopause and cancer: What we need to talk about

    Menopause and cancer: What we need to talk about
    Oct 1 2025
    This episode of the Cancer Professionals Podcast delves into the often-overlooked topic of menopause and its implications for people living with cancer. The discussion features insights from Dani Binnington, founder of Menopause and Cancer, and Professor Richard Simcock, Chief Medical Officer at Macmillan and Consultant Clinical Oncologist, who highlights the complexities of menopause as a result of cancer treatments.
    They explore the emotional and physical challenges faced by women, the importance of awareness and education, and the role of healthcare professionals in providing support. The conversation emphasises the need for better preparation, acknowledgment of symptoms, the availability of treatment options, and other strategies to manage menopausal symptoms effectively.

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions and work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode:
    Menopause and cancer

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.
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    59 mins
  • From helpline to lifeline: The power of acute oncology

    From helpline to lifeline: The power of acute oncology
    Sep 3 2025
    In this episode, we delve into the vital, fast-paced world of Acute Oncology - a critical yet often under-recognised area of cancer care. We’re joined by Naomi Clatworthy, an Acute Oncology Nurse Consultant, and Peter Cook, who shares his powerful personal experience of a rare oncological emergency known as Triple M.

    Ahead of UK Acute Oncology Society Awareness Day on 6th October 2025, we explore the evolution of Acute Oncology Services, how they’re transforming patient care, and the crucial role they play in responding to cancer-related emergencies. From referral pathways and service models to real-world challenges, clinical insights, and lived experience, this episode highlights the importance of timely, expert care in improving outcomes and saving lives. This episode is produced by Macmillan Cancer Support in collaboration with UKONS.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and oncological emergencies which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode: ·
    UK Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS)
    UK Acute Oncology Society
    Acute Oncology (AO) competency passport
    The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre acute oncology guidance

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.
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    51 mins
  • Revolutionising cancer care: Macmillan's new strategy

    Revolutionising cancer care: Macmillan's new strategy
    Aug 6 2025
    In this episode, we explore Macmillan’s bold new strategy which aims to do whatever it takes to get every person the best support today and spark a revolution in cancer care for the future. We're joined by Claire Taylor, Macmillan’s Chief Nursing Officer, and Samina Hussain, Lived Experience Strategy Adviser and Founder of Sakoon Through Cancer, who help bring the strategy to life through their insights and experiences. Together, we unpack the strategy’s four objectives:

    Reach everyone – with a focus on those who need support the most
    Reduce health inequities in cancer treatment and care
    Support people living with cancer and other long-term conditions
    Reduce variation in cancer treatment and care

    This conversation highlights the collaborative approach behind the strategy’s development, the vital role of lived experience, and the importance of involving communities. We also discuss how healthcare professionals can help turn this vision into reality, ensuring that everyone affected by cancer receives the best possible support.

    Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    This series is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Links from the episode: Sakoon Through Cancer
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    52 mins
  • Workforce wellbeing with Frontline19

    Workforce wellbeing with Frontline19
    Jul 2 2025
    In this episode, we are joined by Claire Goodwin-Fee who is a psychotherapist and founder of Frontline19. Frontline19 was set up during the Covid-19 pandemic to support keyworkers with their mental health. Claire provides valuable insights into how to recognise when your mental health may be shifting, the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the workforce, and practical ways to support your own wellbeing in a challenging and emotionally demanding field. We also look ahead, discussing hopes for the future, including what changes and support systems could make a real difference for those caring for others every day.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about mental health and suicide, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    This series is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. 

    Links from the episode:
    Frontline19 website

    Register for the 2024 Macmillan Excellence Finalists webinars:
    Thursday 31st July- John Bostock & transforming the patient experience
    Thursday 13th August- Ellie Ricketts & the power of cold-water swimming
    Thursday 28th August- Isla Veal & the importance of physical activity
    Thursday 11th September- Kelly Kohut & patient co-design
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    50 mins
  • Working in cancer care: Opportunities, challenges and progress

    Working in cancer care: Opportunities, challenges and progress
    Jun 4 2025
    In this episode, we explore how the landscape of cancer nursing has changed over the years through a thoughtful conversation between Sophie Maycock, Supportive Care Clinical Nurse Specialist and UKONS Young and Early Career Cancer Nurses Member Interest Group Co-chair and Marion Woodhouse, Lead Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy Nurse Specialist. Sophie and Marion qualified over 20 years apart. Together, they reflect on what it was like when they first entered the profession, how working in cancer care has evolved over two decades, and what the future might hold. This episode is produced by Macmillan Cancer Support in collaboration with UKONS.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    This series is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. 

    Links from the episode:
    UK Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS)
    Acute Oncology (AO) competency passport
    Systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) competency passport
    Macmillan Leaning Hub

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.
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    51 mins
  • "With equity, everyone wins"

    "With equity, everyone wins"
    May 7 2025
    In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Bami Adenipekun, an equity consultant with lived experience of breast cancer, to discuss equity and representation in cancer care. Drawing on her personal and professional experiences, Bami reflects on the moments she had to advocate for herself during treatment and the systemic barriers that continue to affect people from marginalised communities. She breaks down the difference between equity and equality, and why small, intentional actions from health and social care professionals can create lasting change.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! If you have any feedback about this episode, please fill in this short survey or reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    This series is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or The Macmillan education and training open community page for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Links from the episode:
    Inspired to Soar
    Black Women Rising
    Inclusive prehab (I-Prehab) to address inequity in cancer outcomes- Cardiff University

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most and to make cancer care fair for everyone. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • The power of person-centred care

    The power of person-centred care
    Apr 2 2025
    In this episode, we chat with Callum Metcalfe-O'Shea, UK Professional Lead for long-term conditions at the Royal College of Nursing and Af Marseh, author and stand-up comedian who was diagnosed with testicular cancer. They share valuable insights into the importance of person-centred care and how to put it in action.

    Together, we explore what truly makes a difference. This includes practical strategies for professionals, the power of effective communication, and small but impactful ways to ensure every person feels seen, heard, and supported.

    Whether you’re looking for actionable insights or simply passionate about delivering compassionate care, this conversation will leave you with valuable takeaways to enhance your practice.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! If you have any feedback about this episode, please fill in this short survey or reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    As mentioned in the episode, if you would like an audible code for free access to Af’s book ‘Tumorous Hesticles: Just Say Cancer’ then please email us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    This series is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or The Macmillan education and training open community page for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Links from the episode:

    Tumorous Hesticles: A True Story of Survival & Humour - Af Marseh

    This episode aligns with all four of Macmillan's strategic objectives. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.
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    53 mins
  • Supporting the whole person: Mental health and cancer care

    Supporting the whole person: Mental health and cancer care
    Mar 5 2025
    How do you support people living with cancer who are also navigating mental health problems? In this powerful and insightful episode, we’re joined by Siobhán, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, and Dr Jeff Hanna, a registered nurse and Lecturer in Clinical Cancer Nursing, to explore just that. Siobhán shares her experience of cancer whilst managing a pre-existing mental health condition. She talks about the support she received and what she wishes healthcare professionals had done differently.

    Jeff brings his professional and academic experience to the conversation, offering advice on what best practice really looks like. He highlights how mental health care can be more inclusive and tailored to individual needs, ensuring people living with cancer feel seen, heard and supported.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! If you have any feedback about this episode, please fill in this short survey or reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    This episode is produced by The Cancer Professionals Podcast in collaboration with UKONS. This series is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or The Macmillan education and training open community page for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Links from the episode:
    EASSi Tool paper: https://cancer.jmir.org/2020/2/e20137

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.
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    51 mins