TIL Talks Guest Playlist

In this episode of TIL Talks, Chris White and Dr. John Powderly dive straight into the evolution of cancer treatments, from chemotherapy to advanced immunotherapies, and explores how the research and drug development pipeline functions today. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a patient or caregiver, or simply curious about how cancer drugs are made, this discussion offers valuable insights into the complexity, costs, and systemic challenges of oncology research. Some of the Key Topics are listed below:  

• The broad categories of cancer treatments, including old school chemotherapy (heavy metals, plant-derived alkaloids, fungi), and modern engineered biologics and targeted therapies. 
• The molecular and cellular mechanisms behind biologics like monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, chemokines, and antibody-drug conjugates. 
• The importance of gene silencing approaches such as antisense and mRNA vaccines in current cancer research. 
• The intricacies of clinical trial infrastructure, including site management, data collection, regulatory oversight, and bottlenecks within the system. 
• Systemic economic challenges: the cost to develop cancer drugs, pipeline data, low trial accrual rates, and wasted expenditures. 
• The future paradigm shift: personalized cellular therapies and integrated manufacturing and clinical delivery models. 
• The systemic disintegration of US cancer research infrastructure and opportunities for localized, efficient models.

In this episode, Dr. John Powderly from Carolina Bio-Oncology & BioCytics shares insights into the current state of cancer research, the importance of understanding cancer stages and grades, and how patients can get involved in clinical trials. The discussion aims to educate listeners on cancer basics and research opportunities. Some key topics include Cancer staging and grading, research trials mechanics and participation, and patient education on cancer basics.

As the 7th recording with Dr. Powderly and Chris on TIL Talks, this episode shares slides about Cancer as it remains one of the most daunting health challenges today, yet many people still lack a fundamental understanding of it. Again, Chris and John delve into a conversation about valuable insights into cancer stages, diagnostic pathways, and the importance of clinical trials. Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or simply someone wanting to learn more about cancer, this guide will equip you with essential knowledge. Some important topics include cancer research, clinical trials, cancer stages, oncology education, and patient involvement.

This recording also focuses on Why Understanding Cancer Matters.

Understanding cancer is crucial for patients and their families. Many individuals diagnosed with cancer are unaware of their disease's stage or grade, which can significantly impact treatment options. Dr. Powderly emphasizes the importance of patient education in navigating the complex landscape of cancer treatment. He notes that most patients do not fully understand the diagnostic pathways, which can lead to confusion and anxiety.

Some common misconceptions are that many patients believe that all cancers are the same or that a diagnosis is a death sentence. Educating oneself about cancer can help dispel these myths. A note to highlight about Chris and Dr. Powderly’s collaboration on TIL Talks is empowerment through knowledge: Knowledge is power. By understanding their condition, patients can advocate for themselves, ask informed questions, and make better decisions regarding their treatment. A few more topics to highlight during this recording are regarding the diagnostic pathway and include some helpful tips.

The diagnostic pathway for cancer can be complex, involving multiple steps and various healthcare professionals. Dr. Powderly explains the typical process: These include but are not limited to the following.

1. Initial Consultation: Your journey often begins with a visit to your primary care physician, who may refer you to an oncologist.

2. Diagnostic Testing: This includes imaging tests (like CT scans or MRIs) and biopsies to confirm the presence of cancer.

3. Staging and Grading: Understanding the stage (extent of cancer) and grade (how aggressive it is) is vital for determining the best treatment options.

Both Dr. Powderly and Chris agree to encourage patients to ask questions during this process. Understanding what each test means and how it will inform treatment is crucial for peace of mind.

Clinical trials play a vital role in advancing cancer treatment and providing patients access to cutting-edge therapies and are essential for discovering effective therapies and improving existing ones.

How to Get Involved: Patients can speak to their oncologists about available trials that may be appropriate for their condition. Participation can provide access to new treatments not yet available to the general public.

The Benefits of Participation: Joining a clinical trial can offer hope and contribute to the greater good by helping researchers understand cancer better.

The Key Takeaways to note during this episode of TIL Talks are Understanding your cancer diagnosis is crucial for treatment and recovery, Knowledge empowers patients to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions, and that Clinical trials are a valuable resource for accessing innovative cancer treatments and contributing to research.

In conclusion, understanding cancer and its treatment options is essential for patients and their families. By educating yourself and asking the right questions, you can navigate the complex world of oncology with confidence. For more insights on cancer care, please reach out to healthcare professionals or join support groups that focus on education and empowerment.

Betsy Larrabee is a writer, speaker, and patient advocate who spends a lot of time thinking about what happens when cutting-edge medicine meets real family life. After her son was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at age six, and relapsed two years later, he went on to participate in two CAR-T clinical trials at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. What started as one child’s illness quickly became the organizing structure of family life, with years spent traveling between Colorado and Philadelphia for treatment and follow-up. As Betsy often says, in pediatric cancer the illness belongs to one child, but the experience belongs to the whole family.

Through her writing and advocacy, Betsy explores life on the other side of treatment, where survivorship is less of a finish line and more of an ongoing landscape. She writes at the intersection of gratitude and lament, telling the honest story of pediatric cancer where, yes, the horrors persist, but so does hope.

Today Betsy connects with parents navigating pediatric cancer while also speaking with researchers and clinicians working to build the future of cell and gene therapy. Her work centers on one core idea: scientific progress only works if the systems around it are worthy of the patients and families who trust them.

In the latest episode of TIL Talks, host Chris White engages with Dr. John Powderly from the Carolina Bio-Oncology Institute as a continuation from their last recording in December 2025. Together, they delve into the intricacies of immunotherapy, particularly focusing on vitiligo, clinical trials, and the evolving landscape of cell therapies. Their conversation, providing valuable insights into how immunotherapy is revolutionizing cancer treatments and include the significance of clinical trials, the complexities of immune resistance, and the future potential of personalized cell therapies. As research continues to evolve, it is essential for patients and families to stay informed and consider participating in clinical trials to access cutting-edge treatments.

In this episode of TIL Talks, host Chris welcomes Allison Betof Warner, the director of the melanoma and solid tumor cell therapy programs at Stanford University. They dive into the groundbreaking world of cell therapy, discussing its potential to cure cancer and the importance of patient awareness and education. Allison shares insights on the challenges and triumphs of working with cutting-edge treatments, emphasizing the need for second opinions and the evolving landscape of oncology. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that highlights the human side of medical innovation.

In this episode of TIL Talks, Chris White and Dr. John Powderly discuss the evolving landscape of digital health in oncology, focusing on the challenges of electronic health records (EHRs), the Open-Air movement aimed at standardizing clinical data, and the importance of patient empowerment in accessing their health information. They explore the future of clinical trials, the role of AI in healthcare, and innovations in early cancer detection, emphasizing the need for collaboration among healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes.

In this episode of TIL Talks, Chris engages in a profound conversation with Adrienne Mendoza, Senior Vice President of BioBridge Global Advanced Therapy. They discuss the pioneering efforts of BioBridge Global in regenerative medicine, the importance of blood donation, and the innovative Mobile Leukapheresis Center. Adrienne shares insights into the organization's history, its role in military medicine, and the future of cell and gene therapies. Chris and Adrienne also explore the challenges and opportunities in making these therapies accessible to more patients, emphasizing the need for education and collaboration across sectors.

In this engaging conversation, Chris, Jeff, and Benjamin delve into the world of cellular therapies, sharing their personal journeys and insights into the biotech industry. They discuss the power of LinkedIn as a networking tool, the importance of consistent content creation, and the critical role of scientific communication in patient engagement. The conversation also touches on the future of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and the potential of AI in neoantigen identification, emphasizing the need for effective communication strategies in the rapidly evolving field of cellular therapies .

Laurie Adami shares her personal journey from being a successful startup president to facing a life-altering cancer diagnosis. After years of experiencing unexplained symptoms and being dismissed by doctors, she finally finds a diagnostician who takes her concerns seriously. The shocking news of her cancer diagnosis leads her into a whirlwind of emotions, forcing her to confront the realities of her health and the impact on her family. Throughout her journey, Laurie emphasizes the importance of finding support, advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, and understanding the complexities of cancer treatment. In this conversation, Laurie Adami shares her personal journey through the challenges of being diagnosed with stage four non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the complexities of treatment options, and the emotional rollercoaster of remission and relapse. She discusses the importance of patient advocacy, the exploration of clinical trials, and the hope brought by innovative treatments like CAR T-cell therapy. Laurie's story highlights the resilience required in the face of cancer and the significance of support systems throughout the journey. In this conversation, Laurie Adami shares her personal journey through cancer treatment, highlighting the urgency of receiving timely care, the emotional challenges of remission, and the impact of medication on mental health. She discusses the long-term success of CAR T therapy, the financial burden of cancer treatment, and the importance of clinical trials. Laurie emphasizes the need for specialized care and the barriers posed by insurance in accessing treatment. She advocates for patient awareness and the necessity of support systems in navigating the healthcare landscape.

In this conversation, Chris and Carolyn discuss Carolyn's personal journey with breast cancer, her advocacy work in immunotherapy, and the challenges faced in navigating clinical trials. They delve into the complexities of breast cancer subtypes and the importance of funding for cancer research, particularly in relation to innovative therapies like TIL therapy. Carolyn shares her experiences with North Star Cancer Advocacy and the need for increased awareness and education in the cancer community. In this conversation, Chris and Carolyn discuss the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, particularly focusing on immunotherapy and the importance of patient advocacy. They explore the financial aspects of cancer research, the necessity for patients to be informed advocates for their own health, and the critical role of continuing education for medical professionals. Carolyn shares her personal experiences with cancer treatment and the lessons learned about trusting one's instincts in medical decisions. The discussion also highlights innovative approaches in clinical trials and the future of cancer therapies. In this conversation, Carolyn Leigh discusses her experiences with CAR T therapy, including the challenges of monitoring pseudo progression, the importance of tracking CAR T cell persistence, and the side effects associated with the treatment. She emphasizes the need for effective communication with healthcare providers and the significance of patient advocacy in navigating clinical trials. The discussion also touches on the logistics of treatment, the infusion experience, and the importance of comfort during hospital stays. Carolyn highlights the necessity for patients to conduct their own research and be proactive in seeking clinical trials, as well as the need for breakthroughs in preclinical research to translate into clinical practice more rapidly. In this conversation, Chris and Carolyn discuss the importance of diet and pH levels in cancer treatment, the need for early participation in clinical trials, and the challenges faced by cancer survivors. They emphasize the necessity of advocating for better treatment options and the importance of mental health in survivorship. The discussion also covers innovative approaches to cancer treatment and the need for a more efficient healthcare system that prioritizes patient outcomes. 

In this episode of Tilt Talks, Victoria Gray shares her incredible journey living with sickle cell disease and her groundbreaking experience as the first person to undergo CRISPR gene therapy. From her early diagnosis and the challenges of living with a chronic illness to the hope and transformation brought by innovative medical treatments, Victoria's story is one of resilience, faith, and the pursuit of a better life. She discusses the emotional and physical toll of her condition, the stigma faced in healthcare, and the pivotal moments that led her to seek out new treatment options. Through her narrative, listeners gain insight into the complexities of sickle cell disease, the potential of gene therapy, and the importance of compassionate healthcare. In this conversation, Victoria shares her journey through a groundbreaking clinical trial for sickle cell disease, discussing the challenges and triumphs of her recovery. She emphasizes the importance of monitoring and follow-up care, the significance of being a pioneer in clinical trials, and the transformative potential of gene therapy. The discussion also touches on pain management, the emotional aspects of withdrawal from opioids, and the future of sickle cell treatment. Victoria advocates for patient voices to be amplified in the healthcare system, highlighting the need for affordable treatments and the importance of community support.

In this conversation, Melinda Bachini shares her inspiring journey as a 15-year survivor of stage four cholangiocarcinoma. She discusses her initial diagnosis, the challenges she faced in treatment decisions, and her eventual discovery of TIL therapy. Melinda emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, navigating insurance hurdles, and the support of her family throughout her journey. Her story highlights the significance of clinical trials and the impact of innovative treatments on survival rates for rare cancers. In this conversation, Melinda Bachini and Chris discuss the multifaceted challenges faced by cancer patients and their families, including the emotional and financial burdens of caregiving, the importance of clinical trials, and the role of patient advocacy. They share personal experiences of navigating the healthcare system, the adjustments to life after treatment, and the significance of providing hope and support to others facing similar diagnoses. In this conversation, Chris and Melinda discuss the profound impact of sharing personal stories in the context of cancer survivorship. They emphasize the importance of community, connection, and advocacy in navigating clinical trials and treatment options. Melinda shares her journey with cholangiocarcinoma and the significance of being a voice for patients, while Chris highlights the therapeutic benefits of connecting with others who have faced similar challenges. They also touch on the need for visibility in the cancer community and the potential of writing to share experiences and inspire hope.