Believe in Progress: an AACR Foundation Podcast

Believe in Progress: an AACR Foundation Podcast

Welcome to Believe in Progress, the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation's podcast. Join us as we share stories of hope and inspiration that will lift your spirits and remind you that no matter how difficult your cancer journey may be, there's always hope. On this podcast, we'll explore the latest breakthroughs in cancer research and hear from leading experts who are working tirelessly to find new treatments and cures in the fight against cancer. Believe in Progress isn't just about the science of cancer; it's about the human side of this disease. We'll hear from cancer survivors who have overcome incredible odds to beat cancer., thanks to the groundbreaking research and innovative treatments that are changing the landscape of cancer treatment. These stories of resilience and progress will inspire and motivate you to keep pushing forward no matter what challenges you may be facing. We'll speak with caregivers who have provided unwavering support to their loved ones through their cancer journey. Their selflessness and dedication remind you the power of love and the importance of having a strong support system. Join us on this journey of hope and progress. Subscribe to Believe in Progress, the AACR Foundation's podcast, today, and be inspired by the incredible stories of those who have faced cancer with strength and resilience, and the medical professionals who are working to find new treatments and ultimately a cure. Please do not forget to visit www.aacr.org to make a donation or to find helpful information and resources. Together we can make progress in the fight against cancer and bring hope to those who need it most. Please don't forget, cancer research saves lives. For more information visit the AACR and our podcast here: https://www.aacr.org/get-involved/believe-in-progress-an-aacr-foundation-podcast/ This podcast was produced by the awesome people at CollegeCast LLC. Visit www.collegecastpodcasts.com for more information, or to check out our amazing podcasts.

Episodes

July 16, 2025 35 mins
In this emotional episode of Believe in Progress, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the AACR, is joined by Joe Krajewski, a father, runner, and advocate who transformed personal tragedy into a powerful mission. After losing his only child, Will, to osteosarcoma in 2016, Joe began running in Will’s memory as part of “Team Will Power,” raising vital funds and awareness in the fight against cancer. You will hear a ...
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In this special 50th episode of Believe in Progress, Mitch Stoller, the host of Believe in Progress and Chief Philanthropic Officer of the AACR, sits in the guest chair. Special guest host, Anthony Lopes, Esq., the executive producer of Believe in Progress, leads a reflective and inspiring retrospective conversation with Mitch. They discuss the early days of Believe in Progress, at the AACR, as well as moments that moved and transf...
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This episode of Believe in Progress brings together two individuals leading global investments in cancer research: Dr. Christiana Bardon of MPM BioImpact and Mark Haefele of UBS Global Wealth Management. Dr. Bardon and Mr. Haefele are uniting science, finance, and philanthropy to accelerate breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Their collaboration has led to the Oncology Impact Fund, a revolutionary approach to investing in biotech in...
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This special episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the AACR Annual Meeting 2025 in Chicago, features two compelling conversations that spotlight the human side of cancer research. From confronting rare diagnoses to reshaping clinical trials, our guests reveal how personal experience and advocacy are essential to scientific progress. Featured Guests Bill Day – Marketing Executive, Rare Cancer Survivor, AACR Founda...
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This special episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago, features dynamic conversations with researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and student scholars, each contributing uniquely to the fight against cancer. From breakthrough diagnostics to trailblazing health services research, our guests share their stories of science, innovation, and hope. Featured Guests Dr. Marija Plodinec...
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What happens when deep science meets bold cancer-fighting innovation? In this episode of Believe in Progress, we sit down with Dr. Ajit Singh—Managing Director at Artiman Ventures and a Trustee of the AACR Foundation—for a compelling conversation about the technologies and ideas shaping the future of cancer care. With decades of experience leading both Fortune 500 healthcare companies and high-impact startups, Dr. Singh brin...
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In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Believe in Progress, the podcast presented by the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation, host Mitch Stoller sits down with Chef AJ—renowned plant-based chef, bestselling author, and host of the popular YouTube channel "Healthy Living with Chef AJ." With over 47 years of experience in whole-food, plant-based nutrition, Chef AJ has long championed the power of healthy eati...
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How can new approaches to early detection make a difference for children at risk of rare cancers? In this episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Foundation, host Mitch Stoller speaks with Dr. Kris Ann P. Schultz, a leading pediatric oncologist and Scientific Director of Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children's Minnesota. Dr. Schultz shares her groundbreaking work on ...
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What does it take to turn a scientific discovery into a treatment that changes lives? On this episode of Believe in Progress, the podcast brought to you by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Foundation, host Mitch Stoller talks with Dr. William Pao, an esteemed physician-scientist, executive leader, and author of the new book Breakthrough: The Quest for Life-Changing Medicines. Dr. Pao is the Chief Executive Off...
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How does a kidney cancer diagnosis lead to a life-changing mission? On this episode of Believe in Progress, a podcast of the AACR Foundation, host Mitch Stoller sits down with Meryl Uranga, a seven-year kidney cancer survivor who turned her personal battle into a powerful force for change. Meryl was diagnosed with metastatic kidney cancer while undergoing treatment for appendicitis—a moment that changed everything for her. Now, ...
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What happens when a devastating brain cancer diagnosis collides with a sharp comedic mind? You get Bryan Bishop—a podcasting icon, bestselling author, and relentless advocate for cancer research. Known for his quick wit and signature humor on The Adam Carolla Show and The Bryan and Gina Show, Bryan shares how he turned his inoperable brain tumor diagnosis into a mission to uplift, inspire, and push forward groundbreaking cancer res...
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Howard Brown is living proof that resilience is more than a mindset—it’s a survival strategy. As a two-time stage IV cancer survivor, tech entrepreneur, author, and fierce advocate for research, Howard has spent decades turning adversity into action. But today, he faces his toughest battle yet. Since we last spoke with Howard (on Episode 003 of Believe in Progress), he has endured an intense chemotherapy regimen, 38 blood and pl...
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In this special live episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, host Mitch Stoller takes us to the heart of the AACR Philadelphia Marathon. Against the backdrop of one of Philadelphia's most iconic events, this episode captures the energy, determination, and community spirit that make this race unforgettable year after year. Joined by five inspiring guests—Jim Marino, Bill Rodgers, Rachael Ringer, Todd Wiseman, and Coleen McMah...
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In this special live episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, host Mitch Stoller takes us to the heart of the AACR Philadelphia Marathon. Against the backdrop of one of Philadelphia's most iconic events, this episode captures the energy, determination, and community spirit that make this race unforgettable year after year. Joined by four inspiring guests—Mark Sullivan, Linda Reilly, Brook Byrd, and Anwar Miller—we delve into ...
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In this inspiring episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), sits down with Jason Tharp, a brain cancer survivor, resilience expert, author, illustrator, and patient advocate. Jason’s extraordinary journey is a testament to the transformative power of hope, creativity, and the human spirit. From his life-changing diagnosis ...
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In this deeply personal episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the AACR, sits down with two of his lifelong friends, Steve Hatlestad and Dave Clark. Over the course of a remarkable 58-year friendship, these men have shared countless moments, from basketball games in their youth to supporting each other through life’s greatest challenges, including battles with cancer. Steve...
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In this episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the AACR, talks with Michael Hugo, a remarkable individual whose story of resilience, innovation, and determination in the face of glioblastoma is truly inspiring. Michael takes us through his journey, from his personal achievements and professional career to his transformation into a passionate advocate for glioblastoma awareness...
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In this inspirational episode of the Believe in Progress Podcast, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the American Association for Cancer Research, sits down with Katie Coleman, a software engineer, podcaster, author, and stage 4 kidney cancer survivor, alongside Dr. Pavlos Msaouel, a physician-scientist who specializes in rare kidney cancers. Katie and Dr. Msaouel each share their personal journeys and delve into th...
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In this episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, our host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), speaks with Michael A. Nutter: former Mayor of Philadelphia, cancer survivor, and a dedicated public servant with a distinguished career in urban policy, governance, and public health advocacy. Mayor Nutter shares his inspiring journey from growing up in West Philadelphia to...
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In this episode of the Believe in Progress Podcast, host Mitch Stoller, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the AACR, sits down with Kristen Dahlgren, a former NBC journalist, breast cancer survivor, and dedicated advocate for cancer research. Kristen is now at the forefront of the Cancer Vaccine Coalition, working tirelessly to advance the development of a breast cancer vaccine. Her journey from telling powerful stories at NBC's Today ...
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