Episodes

In this episode we cover burn pit exposure and cancer that affects many veterans. Medical Oncologist Dr. Tony Jaslowski and Outagamie County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) Kell Bales discuss the health crisis stemming from military burn pits and the landmark legislation designed to help. The guests break down the extensive use of open-air burn pits used to dispose of everything from trash and fuel to chemicals and medical waste and the subsequent illnesses years later. They then detail the pass...

In the second part of our interview, Dr. Brian Merkel, Professor and Chair of Human Biology at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, moves the focus from his battle with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in 1984 to his life as a survivor and educator. After beating the disease with a bone marrow transplant, Dr. Merkel now inspires and mentors the next generation of doctors and scientists, committed to paying that gift forward. He is joined again by Green Bay Oncology’s Dr. Brian Burnette and his for...

In this episode, Dr. Brian Merkel, Professor and Chair of Human Biology at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, shares the deeply personal story of surviving acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in 1984. Despite a 10% chance of survival, he overcame the disease through a bone marrow transplant, an emerging treatment at the time. Now, he dedicates his life to teaching and mentoring the next generation of doctors and scientists. Joining him are Green Bay Oncology’s Dr. Brian Burnette and Dr. Evan Wenig,...

In this episode, Green Bay Oncology’s financial counselors, Jordan Karwedsky and Anne Baumgart, break down how Medicare covers cancer treatments. They share practical advice on how to navigate the complexities of the system, avoid unexpected costs, and access financial assistance. “Ask for help early. Don’t let it get outta control. And don’t forget if there’s financial counselors available, we’re always here to help.” – Jordan Karwedsky and Anne Baumgart On this episode of Cancer Covered, you...

Medical oncologists Dr. Kamal Abbi and Dr. Brian Burnette discuss BiTE therapy, a groundbreaking immunotherapy treatment for various cancers. They explain how this therapy works by harnessing the body’s own immune system, its rapid evolution, and who is eligible for treatment. “We’re at the tip of the iceberg… moving a non-curable but manageable disease to a curable disease with a time-limited, not indefinite treatment.” – Dr. Brian Burnette In this episode of Cancer Covered, you’ll learn: Th...

Radiation oncologist Dr. Michael Guiou and medical oncologists Dr. Kamal Abbi and Dr. Matthew Ryan discuss Pluvicto, an innovative radiopharmaceutical treatment for advanced prostate cancer. They explain how this therapy uses a targeted approach to deliver radiation from the inside out, who is eligible for the treatment, and what patients can expect. “With external beam radiation, you’re limited in what you can treat… with Pluvicto, you can have things in your pelvis and your chest and your arm...

Radiation oncologists Dr. Michael Guiou and Dr. Alex Coffman discuss why patients with left-sided breast cancer face an increased risk of heart disease due to the proximity of the heart to the tumor. They explain how historical advancements in radiation technology initially led to higher doses reaching the heart and detail the modern techniques now used to mitigate this risk. “You don’t want to cure their cancer, but increase their risk of having a heart attack later on in life.” – Dr. Michael ...

In this truly special Part 2 episode, we’re honored to continue our conversation with Vaughn Collicott, a 101-year-old World War II Navy veteran and cancer survivor. Having shared the remarkable first half of his life in our previous episode—from growing up in a covered wagon to navigating the London Blitz and the D-Day invasion—Vaughn now shifts his focus. Today, he delves into another significant battle he’s faced with the same steadfast spirit: his journey with multiple cancer diagnoses. He s...

In this truly special episode, we’re honored to feature Vaughn Collicott, a 101-year-old World War II Navy veteran and cancer survivor. Vaughn’s life story spans some of history’s most pivotal moments, from spending his first year of life in a covered wagon to navigating the London Blitz and the D-Day invasion. He shares his incredible journey of resilience, service, and courage with host Steve Slocum, Dr. Tony Jaslowski and his granddaughter Gidget Peerenboom. “I’ve been a lucky person all my ...

Medical oncologist and hematologist Dr. Matthew Ryan and pediatric hematology/oncology social worker Emma Lehman, MSW, CAPSW, discuss the unique challenges that young adults face when transitioning from pediatric to adult cancer care. They share how the shift from a family-centered pediatric environment to a more independent adult setting can be emotionally and logistically daunting, highlighting the significant differences in care teams and support systems. “Transitioning from pediatric to adu...

In this episode, Dr. Michael Guiou, a radiation oncologist, and Emma Lehman, a pediatric hematology/oncology social worker, dive into the unique challenges of facing cancer as a young adult. They discuss how treatment approaches are adapted, the long-term impacts young adults face, and the crucial support systems they need to navigate their diagnosis. “They’re a population that doesn’t fit in. They’re not in the pediatric world. They’re not in the adult world, and oftentimes it even takes us a ...

In this episode, Dr. Michael Guiou, Dr. Matthew Ryan, and Dr. Kamal Abbi explore the key factors that impact the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatments. They emphasize the importance of patient advocacy, understanding treatment options, and the role of a multidisciplinary team in providing comprehensive and safe care. “I always encourage patients to ask questions and advocate for themselves. I take much time to make sure that patients truly understand what they’re undergoing.” – Dr. Mich...

Cancer diagnosis and treatment involve a complex array of tools and considerations, and understanding them can be crucial. In this episode, we discuss tumor markers and their vital role, as well as their limitations, in the field of oncology. We explore how these proteins, produced in excess by certain cancers, serve as valuable indicators for diagnosis and monitoring but also highlight the potential for false positives and the critical need to interpret them within a diagnosis. We cover the imp...

The financial realities of a cancer diagnosis often come as a second shock, right after the words “you have cancer.” Insurance can be a maze at the best of times, and when treatments, tests, and ongoing care start to add up, understanding exactly how your coverage works becomes critical. In this episode, I sit down with Renee Lemens, President of Informed Choice Insurance Agency, and Jordan Karwedsky, financial counselor at Green Bay Oncology, to demystify the insurance world for cancer patients...

Cancer treatment can be overwhelming—not just emotionally and physically, but financially as well. While insurance may cover much of the cost, significant expenses often fall to patients. In this episode, we talk with the team behind Navigating Hope, a financial counseling initiative at Green Bay Oncology that has helped save patients and care facilities millions. Jordan Karwedsky and Gretchen Van Dyck, two financial counselors on the front lines of this work, join Dr. Brian Burnette, an oncolog...

How do you know if your cancer is cured? In this episode of Cancer Covered, Dr. Brian Burnette and Dr. Tony Jaslowski join us to explore this crucial question. We dive into the definitions of “cure” and “remission” and how they differ. Our discussion highlights how factors like age, cancer type, and treatment goals influence long-term outcomes and the personalized nature of cancer care. Dr. Brian Burnette, an expert oncologist, shares his insights into the complexities of cancer treatment. Dr. ...

In this episode of Cancer Covered, we delve into the inspiring story of Spierings Cancer Foundation, a local powerhouse in the fight against cancer in the Fox Cities. Born from Jim Spierings’ battle with throat cancer and the overwhelming support he received, the foundation has distributed nearly $2.5 million since its inception in 2009. Our guests, Jim Spierings, founder and president; Katie Dougherty, executive director; and Dr. Brad Heraly from Green Bay Oncology, share insights into how the ...

Understanding and preventing cancer recurrence is a crucial aspect of survivorship. In this episode, we’re joined by medical oncologists, Dr. David Groteluschen and Dr. Brad Heraly, to explore the factors contributing to cancer recurrence and strategies patients can use to reduce their risk. We’ll also delve into managing the emotional challenges that accompany cancer survivorship. Dr. David Groteluschen and Dr. Brad Heraly are experienced medical oncologists dedicated to advancing cancer care ...

Nutrition is critical in cancer care, influencing treatment outcomes and recovery processes. In this episode, we sit with oncology clinical dietitians Jasmine Ditter and Maddi Mleziva from HSHS St. Vincent Hospital Cancer Centers. Both are passionate about supporting cancer patients through their dietary journeys, addressing the unique nutritional challenges of treatment. They bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to their roles, ensuring individualized care that meets each patient’s specific ...

Understanding whether cancer treatment is working can be a complex and nuanced journey. In this episode of Cancer Covered, I’m joined by Dr. Tony Jaslowski, a dedicated medical oncologist, and Dr. Michael Guiou, an insightful radiation oncologist, as we navigate the critical topic of evaluating the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Together, we’ll explore how different treatments are prescribed and monitored while highlighting the importance of individualized care and the patient’s active part...

In this episode of Cancer Covered, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Evan Wenig, a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist who joined Green Bay Oncology in the fall of 2024. Dr. Wenig shares his journey from a small town in Wisconsin to becoming a dedicated medical professional. In our conversation, he discusses his philosophy on patient care, his inspiration for specializing in oncology and hematology, and his excitement about joining the Green Bay community. We delve into h...

In this episode, Dr. Judy Tjoe joins us to share her journey into the world of breast surgery and oncology. She discusses her motivations for choosing this specialty, the importance of patient-centered care, and her innovative work in integrating exercise into cancer recovery. Dr. Tjoe also details her role in developing a new breast cancer program at Ascension NE Wisconsin – St. Elizabeth Campus Cancer Center in Appleton, WI and her vision for the future of cancer care. Dr. Judy Tjoe is a fell...

Cancer is a complex and multifaceted disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding this disease requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical expertise, patient care, and compassionate support for patients and their families. In this introduction, Steve Slocum, Chief Strategy Officer, and I, Megan Bies, Green Bay Oncology’s brand specialist, are excited to present the new season of Cancer Covered. We aim to bridge the gap between you and our team of highly knowledge...

On today’s episode, we dive into the topic of chemotherapy ports. We discuss what they are, how they work, and why and when they’re used and not used in cancer treatment. Exploring the benefits and potential risks associated with ports and the issues surrounding when they should be removed after treatment, it’s an informative and insightful conversation that sheds light on this often inquired-about important aspect of cancer care. Dr. Burnette explains the different types of ports, their placem...