Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach

Surviving breast cancer doesn't mean you're done thinking about cancer screenings. In honor of  National Cancer Awareness Month , this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer  sheds light on the  myths vs. facts  of routine cancer screenings after diagnosis—and why staying on top of them is still an important part of your long-term wellness. I'll also share a  personal experience with a recen...

For thousands of years, sages and traditional healers have used  botanical medicines —including mushrooms—to support the body, boost resilience, and promote healing. Today,  modern science  is catching up with this ancient wisdom, validating many of the traditional uses of these powerful natural remedies. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore the healing properties of ...

Surviving breast cancer is a life-changing experience—and not always in the ways we expect. After treatment ends, many women face an entirely new set of challenges: physical shifts, emotional upheaval, spiritual questions, and changes in relationships, career, and identity. The truth is,  transformation is inevitable —but how we respond to it can shape the life we create after cancer. In this epis...

Should you eat soy after breast cancer? It's one of the most debated nutrition topics—and one that leaves many survivors feeling unsure or even fearful. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we unpack the controversy around  soy and breast cancer , and get to the truth behind the headlines. You'll learn why soy has been so misunderstood, what the  latest research  and expert opini...

If summer has you feeling overheated, irritable, inflamed, or just plain drained, you're not alone—and  Ayurveda  has your back. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , you'll learn simple and natural ways to  cool your body from the inside out  using food, herbs, and lifestyle strategies designed to balance  Pitta dosha , the Ayurvedic principle of heat and transformation. You'll a...

Today, I celebrate  seven years of surviving breast cancer —and I'm marking this milestone with a special bonus episode filled with hope, reflection, and deep gratitude. In this heartfelt episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I share a personal story about how someone else's cancer journey changed my life long before my own diagnosis. Their strength became a light that helped guide me thr...

If you haven't heard the word  microbiome  yet, you will—because it's quickly becoming one of the most important areas of research in modern health and healing. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore what the  gut microbiome  is, why it matters, and how it may influence everything from your immune system to your mood, weight, energy, and even your risk of disease. You'll...

For years, "chemo brain" was dismissed or downplayed by many medical professionals—but no more. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore the now medically recognized condition known as  chemo brain , including what it is, why it happens, and the symptoms that many breast cancer survivors experience long after treatment ends. You'll also hear about a powerful new resource t...

Do scented candles give you headaches? Does the smell of air fresheners, cleaning supplies, or insecticides make you feel nauseous, dizzy, or lightheaded? You may be experiencing  Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) —a condition that's becoming increasingly common as our exposure to everyday toxins continues to grow. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we dive into what MCS is,...

You've likely heard of  vitamin D , but did you know that maintaining healthy levels may actually reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence? In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we're talking all about the "sunshine vitamin"—how it supports your immune system, hormone balance, and overall wellness, and how to know whether you're getting too little… or too much. But that's not a...

While the average age of a breast cancer diagnosis is 55, thousands of women under 40 are diagnosed each year—and many face challenges that are rarely talked about. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I sit down with  Janelle Linares , a mentor with  Women Guiding Women  and a breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed at just 33 years old. Janelle opens up about what it's like to...

Spring is nature's invitation to refresh, restore, and return to balance—and Ayurveda offers powerful, gentle tools to help you do just that. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , you'll learn about  Rasayana , a rejuvenating and anti-aging branch of Ayurveda that focuses on cellular renewal, longevity, and mental clarity. We'll talk about an easy, approachable way to cleanse and...

Are those "health" foods in your grocery cart really supporting your recovery—or could they be quietly working against it? In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we take a closer look at how marketing tactics in the health food aisle can give processed foods a deceptive "healthy halo," and why it's so important to read between the labels—especially after cancer treatment. You'll al...

In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I sit down with Betty Alterman, founder of  Pink Ribbon Plus , to explore the often-overlooked but incredibly important topic of  mastectomy bras  and  breast forms . Betty shares her expert insights on how to find the right fit, how to create the shape  you  want, and how comfort and confidence can beautifully coexist after breast cancer trea...

Did you know that certain natural foods and spices may actually help your body fight cancer—and that the words you speak to yourself every day may be just as powerful? In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore both sides of healing: the physical support of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich spices like turmeric (a staple in  Ayurvedic medicine  and now supported by  clinic...

In honor of  World Cancer Day , this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer  is all about empowering you with simple, natural tools to support your body, reduce your risk of cancer recurrence, and promote everyday wellness. You'll hear  three practical lifestyle choices  that can lower cancer risk and strengthen your immune system—plus, you'll discover how to support your recovery from colds...

The start of a new year holds incredible potential—especially when you approach it with clarity, intention, and goals that  actually  matter to you. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we talk about how to turn the page on the past and begin writing the healthiest, happiest chapter of your life. You'll learn why New Year's resolutions don't have to feel cliché or pointless—and h...

Can something as simple as gratitude really change your health? In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore what experts are saying about the science behind gratitude—and how it can improve sleep, reduce inflammation, strengthen your relationships, and support emotional and physical healing. You'll also hear about a fascinating book that dives into the research behind  radica...

If you're feeling overheated, inflamed, bloated, or just out of sync with your body—there may be deeper imbalances at play. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore the ancient science of  Ayurveda , a time-tested system of healing that helps you understand the root of your symptoms and how to bring your body and mind back into harmony. You'll learn how Ayurvedic principle...

Think a 30-minute workout is enough to offset a full day of sitting? Think again. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we explore the real impact of a sedentary lifestyle—even for those who exercise regularly—and how adding more non-exercise activity into your day can support weight management and reduce your risk of cancer recurrence. But we don't stop there. You'll also learn a...

If you're constantly feeling fatigued, struggling to lose weight, or facing chronic health issues that just won't improve—there may be a genetic reason behind it. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , we're diving into the MTHFR gene mutation and how it could be impacting your energy, metabolism, and even your cancer risk. You'll learn what MTHFR is, why methylation is so critical...

One of the most powerful sources of strength during cancer treatment is the love and support of those closest to us. But what happens when the caregivers—our partners, spouses, and families—face their own emotional and physical challenges that often go unseen? In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I talk with Scott Keppel, an accomplished trainer, entrepreneur, and husband to two-...

In this powerful episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I sit down with Randal Snyder, co-manager of the inspiring  Women Guiding Women  cancer support and education program at Long Beach Memorial Hospital. Alongside Susie Garrison, Randal helps lead this deeply impactful initiative that brings survivors together to heal, grow, and give back. Randal shares how the program connects survivor...

Sugar feels like a sweet friend… until it becomes a clingy roommate you can't shake. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I share my personal journey of letting go of sugar, what finally helped me kick the habit, and the science behind why sugar can be especially harmful to breast cancer survivors. You'll learn why your brain craves sugar (hint: it's not your fault), what it real...

After attending the IDEA World Nutrition and Behavior Change Summit, I was reminded just how overwhelming nutrition advice can be—especially for those who aren't knee-deep in research every day. Conflicting opinions, food rules, trendy diets… it's no wonder so many women feel stuck and discouraged. In this episode of  Better Than Before Breast Cancer , I share how to break free from the noise and...