The Cancer Professionals Podcast (Macmillan Cancer Support)

Do you work in cancer care? In this new series from Macmillan Cancer Support launched in January 2024, we interview a wide range of guests, including health and social care professionals, to lift the lid on current issues faced by the cancer workforce. Expect to hear discussions of clinical practice, personal experience and practical advice to improve your knowledge and skills in supporting people affected by cancer. New episodes are released on the first Wednesday of each month.

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

In this episode, we’re joined by Natalie Harrison, a Macmillan Specialist Palliative Care Dietitian. Natalie shares her knowledge and expertise in diet and nutrition at end of life. This includes how a person’s nutritional needs may change as they approach end of life, ethical considerations and practical tips on how all professionals working in cancer care can support people with nutrition. And much more!

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.

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

If you have any feedback about this episode please reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Verna Lavender, a nurse academic who works at Guy’s and St Thomas’ as Head of Nursing in Research and Education in the Cancer and Surgery Clinical Group and Donna Munro, a Professional Development and Knowledge Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support and registered general nurse.

We discuss acute oncology and why it’s important for everyone to know about. They also share the education and training they have developed to educate the workforce on Acute Oncology, including the new acute oncology competence passport. And much more!

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. 

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

If you have any feedback about this episode please reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk

Tune in to this enlightening conversation with Stewart O’Callaghan, founder and CEO of OUTpatients, the UK’S only LGBTIQ+ cancer charity. We explore some of the challenges and barriers in cancer care that are faced by the LGBTIQ+ community, such as the intersection of cancer care, identity and advocacy. Stewart shares personal anecdotes and experiences which highlight the importance of personalised care to create safety and inclusion in healthcare.

We learn from Stewart about the steps we can take to help overcome these barriers, keep up momentum and inspire change.

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.

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

Links from podcast:

OUTpatients is the UK’s only LGBTIQ+ cancer charity. We’re proudly led by and for LGBTIQ+ people affected by cancer, and work hard to support and advocate for our community.
OUTpatients - LGBTIQ+ Cancer Charity

Trans and gender-diverse people frequently experience inequitable access to health and care services, and the same is true for care at the end of life.This report uses real-world experience to highlight the needs of these communities, and sets out recommendations for what hospices and palliative care professionals can do to make end of life care more equitable and accessible for everyone.
I Just Want To Be Me | Hospice UK

If you have any feedback about this episode please reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk

Join us for this compelling conversation with Helena Boyce, Anti-Racism and Racial Literacy Educator, business owner, and 3x Breast Cancer Survivor.

Helena candidly shares her personal experience of cancer while shedding light on the issue of racism in cancer care. With poignant examples, she unveils the disparities faced by people of colour in accessing equitable healthcare. Helena inspires actionable steps toward fostering a more inclusive and compassionate environment in cancer care, where every patient receives the personalised support they need. 

Content warning: This episode includes examples containing sexual language. 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.

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

Links from podcast:

HOME | BLACK WOMEN RISING (blackwomenrisinguk.org)

Home (youbuntu.uk)

If you have any feedback about this episode please reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk

In this two-part episode, we explore the widespread but often unrecognised issue of vicarious trauma in cancer care. We are joined by Dr Karen Campbell, President of the UK Oncology Nursing Society and Associate Professor in cancer nursing, and Lisa Nel, practising therapist, clinical supervisor and independent trainer. 

Karen and Lisa describe the reality of vicarious trauma, discuss its signs and symptoms, and highlight its impact on health and social care professionals. With a focus on self-care, they share practical strategies for recognising and addressing vicarious trauma within oneself and others. 

Join us to gain insights into this critical aspect of healthcare and learn how to take proactive steps to address and mitigate its overwhelming effects in cancer care teams. 

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about emotional trauma, 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.

The Cancer Professionals Podcast 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 podcast:

Vicarious Traumatisation - Website

UKONS - Website

If you have any feedback about this episode, we would love to hear from you, please reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk

Join us for the second part of our episode, as we continue our conversation about Vicarious Trauma, with Dr Karen Campbell and Lisa Nel. Catch up with Part 1 if you haven’t listened already, as we delve deeper into the tools and strategies that you can use to address your own experience of vicarious trauma. 

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about emotional trauma, 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.

The Cancer Professionals Podcast 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 podcast: 

Vicarious Traumatisation - Website 
UKONS - Website 
Frontline19 - Website
Samaritans - Website
Mind - Website 

Listen in as we delve into the crucial topic of advance care planning, discussing its importance in ensuring patients' wishes are respected and their care is well-coordinated. In this episode, we are joined by Dan Monnery, palliative care consultant and Claire Cadwallader, palliative care clinical nurse specialist.

Claire shares details about her award-winning service improvement project, which has made significant strides in enhancing advance care planning practices. We explore practical strategies, challenges, and the impact this planning has on healthcare professionals, patients and their families. We explore Claire’s British Journal of Nursing award nomination and how her dedication and innovative approach has transformed patient care. This episode is filled with inspiring moments and valuable insights into the importance of thoughtful planning in cancer care. 

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 podcast:

UKONS - Home

Complex Cancer Conversations: Hints and Tips Toolkit | Podcast on Spotify

Best practice for palliative and end of life care | Macmillan Cancer Support

If you have any feedback about this episode, we would love to hear from you, please reach out to us at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

In this episode, we explore the fascinating field of genomics and genetic testing. Join us as Kelly Kohut, lead consultant genetic counsellor, breaks down what genomics is and how it plays a crucial role in cancer care today. We also hear from Emma Jenkins, patient representative working with the Southeast NHS Genomic Medicine Service, who shares her personal journey with genetic testing. Emma candidly discusses her experience of being diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition that increases the risk of developing certain cancers, following a family member's cancer diagnosis. This conversation offers valuable insights into the real-world implications of genomics and the impact of genetic testing on individuals and families. 

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: 
Lynch Choices- Website 
Macmillan Genomics Toolkit 

In this episode, we're joined by Nellie Kumaralingam, a former melanoma nurse consultant, and Suzanne, who was diagnosed with melanoma in 2022. Together, they offer an in-depth look into immunotherapy.  

Nellie demystifies what immunotherapy is, explaining how it works, its potential to target cancer cells, and the long-term effects it can have on the body. She brings her wealth of knowledge to help us understand the powerful impact of this treatment—not just on the disease, but on the lives of those who undergo it. 

Suzanne opens up about her personal journey with immunotherapy, candidly sharing the highs and lows of her treatment. She discusses the physical and emotional challenges she’s faced, the unexpected long-term side effects, and how she’s learning to live with them. This conversation offers a raw and real insight into what it means to navigate life after a cancer diagnosis and provides valuable perspectives from both the medical and personal sides of treatment. 

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: 

The Immuno-Oncology Clinical Network - ioclinicalnetwork.co.uk
Immuno-Oncology Education Forum - National IO Education Forum | ioclinicalnetwork.co.uk
UK SACT (Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy) Board - Home | UK SACT Board  
What is immunotherapy and how is it given? | Macmillan Cancer Support

In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked impact of cancer treatments on the skin and discuss practical strategies for alleviating these side effects. We’re joined by Dr. Fiona McCarthy, a medical oncologist, and Rosamund Dean, journalist, author and wellness coach with her own lived experience of cancer. We explore a range of skin-related side effects, from dryness and rashes to sensitivity and irritation.

We emphasise the importance of healthcare professionals proactively asking about skin issues and encouraging patients to openly share their experiences. The episode highlights how addressing skin health can improve patient comfort and quality of life, providing practical advice for integrating skincare into cancer care. This discussion aims to equip health and social care professionals with the knowledge to better support their patients.

La Roche-Posay is supporting Macmillan Cancer Support and the vital work it does to support people living with cancer. Working in partnership, La Roche-Posay and Macmillan aim to provide information on the side effects of cancer treatment on skin and ways to alleviate these. Macmillan’s participation in this partnership does not constitute an endorsement of La Roche-Posay or L’Oréal products.

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: 
Oncology | Cancer Support and Skincare | La Roche-Posay UK
Our partnership with La Roche-Posay | Macmillan Cancer Support
Future Dreams | In-person and virtual breast cancer support
Maggie's | Everyone's home of cancer care (maggies.org)
A leading cancer support charity - Look Good Feel Better : Look Good Feel Better

In this episode, we take a deeper look at Genomics with Mary Tanay, Macmillan Nurse Consultant in Genomics and President-Elect of the UK Oncology Nursing Society, alongside Tootie Bueser, Director of Nursing and Midwifery. Together, we explore the increasing role of genetic testing in cancer care, its impact on decision-making, and how genomics can be an integral part of everyday discussions and practice.

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: 
Macmillan Genomics Toolkit 
Genomics Education Programme- NHS England
Macmillan Genomics Toolkit: Breast
The National Genomic Test Directory
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) website

In this episode we are joined by Dr. Jennifer Corns, senior lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Glasgow. We explain what we mean by ‘agency’ and how suffering can significantly disrupt a person's sense of control and autonomy. Jennifer explores how we can prioritise forms of agency to achieve person-centred care.  

Jennifer shares practical insights into minimising disruptions to agency and creating opportunities to enrich it, for people living with cancer. 
Through real-life examples and thought-provoking discussion, we bring these ideas to life and show how understanding and nurturing agency can transform the way we care. 

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. 

Please note: To access the course 'Understanding and enriching agency in palliative and end of life care' - which is discussed in detail during the episode, you will need to be signed up to The Macmillan Learning Hub. Visit Education and Training | Healthcare professionals | Macmillan Cancer Support and follow the instructions to sign up.

In this special episode of the Cancer Professionals Podcast, recorded live at the Macmillan Professionals Conference 2024 at the ICC in Wales, we discuss the power of person-centred communication in cancer care. Richard Galloway shares details from his own cancer diagnosis, highlighting lessons for improvement, and offering examples of where poor communication negatively impacted his experience. Joining him, Natalie Harrison, Clinical Specialist Macmillan Dietitian and Dr Caroline Coffey, Consultant Clinical Psychologist provide valuable insights from the viewpoint of healthcare professionals, illustrating how thoughtful, individualised communication impacts people and their cancer experience. This episode highlights both the challenges and successes in fostering effective communication to support those living with cancer. 

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: 
Effective communication in cancer care promotional page - Macmillan
NHS England » What does compassionate and inclusive leadership mean to us?
NHS England » Professional nurse advocate
MoonWalk | Breast Cancer Charity |Walk the Walk
The Men's Virtual Meet Up

In this special bonus episode, we take you inside the Macmillan Professionals Conference at the ICC in Newport, Wales. Join us as we chat with inspiring professionals who share their highlights and learnings from 2024, their vision for improving support for people living with cancer, and the exciting advancements they’re looking forward to in 2025.

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.

In this inspiring episode about cold-water swimming, we’re joined by Ellie Ricketts, a Macmillan Specialist Oncology Counsellor, and Nat Tarrab-Snooks, a lived experience expert. Together, they share the story behind an award-winning cold-water swimming project that has made waves in cancer support. Ellie discusses her motivation for creating the project, the challenges she overcame, and the transformative impact it has had on people living with cancer. Meanwhile, Nat offers her unique perspective as a participant, sharing how the practice has positively shaped her own journey. 

This episode provides an honest and uplifting look at the practice of cold-water swimming, showcasing the power of innovative approaches in supporting mental health and wellbeing for those affected by cancer.

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: 
Chill South Devon | Chill CIC - Cold Water Sessions
www.facebook.com/chillsouthdevon/
www.instagram.com/chillsouthdevon/

Contact Ellie:
ellie@chilluk.org

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 patients 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