[HIATUS] Stupid Cancer: You Know What It Is With Alison Silberman Out Of Patients With Matthew Zachary podcast

42:35

Welcome to another episode of Out of Patients , where we get real about the absolute circus that is the American healthcare system. If you've ever been trapped in a medical billing nightmare, gaslit by insurance reps, or just generally felt like healthcare is an elaborate game designed to screw you—this one’s for you. Joining me is the indomitable Deb Gordon , a relentless champion for healthcare consumers, co-founder of Umbra Health Advocacy , and co-director of the Alliance of Professional Health Advocates . She literally wrote the book ( The Healthcare Consumer’s Manifesto ) on navigating this broken system—and she’s here to help you get unf*cked . We talk about why the healthcare system is a hot mess, how patient advocacy is (unfortunately) a booming business, and why you shouldn’t have to fight tooth and nail just to get the care you’re entitled to. And yes, there are people you can hire to help you navigate the bureaucratic hellscape of prior authorizations, medical bills, and misdiagnoses. It’s an infuriating conversation—but also wildly empowering. If you’ve ever thought, Where the hell was this when I needed it? —well, now you know. RELATED LINKS 📖 The Healthcare Consumer’s Manifesto 🌍 Umbra Health Advocacy 🏛 Alliance of Professional Health Advocates ✍️ Deb Gordon on Forbes 🔗 Deb Gordon on LinkedIn FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Cancer, AI, and the Meaning of Life 41:28

13 days ago41:28

41:28

You know how some people enter your life with a knock, a bang, or maybe even a LinkedIn request? Not Rebecca Batterman, returning champion to Out of Patients, making her dramatic second appearance, Back in 2019, she karmically appeared like a plot twist in a film noir—unexpected, inevitable, and full of surprises. An AI strategist, an optimist (yes, those exist), and a young adult cancer survivor, Rebecca is here to school us on everything from the future of AI in healthcare to why nostalgia is a coping mechanism we all need. In this no-BS conversation, we talk about the state of innovation (is it still a buzzword?), the wild advancements in early cancer detection, and whether AI-generated empathy is just another overpromised tech fantasy. We also take a detour into the absurdity of pinkwashed cancer fundraising, the evolution of cancer portrayals in pop culture, and the ultimate question: Can you separate the art from the artist? Come for the cancer survivorship insights, stay for the South Park references and existential musings on whether you'd rather live in the past (with no antibiotics) or the future (with AI clones of yourself). RELATED LINKS Rebecca Batterman on LinkedIn Understanding AI on Maven Rebecca’s Articles on Adweek Breast Positivity as Self-Care FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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The Big Talk: Where Legacy Meets Spotlight 43:59

20 days ago43:59

43:59

Tricia Brouk isn’t just a storyteller—she’s a story architect, crafting narratives that connect humanity. A former ballet dancer turned award-winning director, choreographer, and transformational speaker coach, Tricia brings her unique journey to the mic in this captivating conversation. From dancing in iconic opera houses to choreographing Hollywood blockbusters, she has mastered the art of turning moments into movements. In this episode, Tricia and I dive deep into the magic of storytelling as a service, the difference between telling a story and truly captivating an audience, and how vulnerability can transform lives. Whether you’re looking to step into the spotlight or just understand how to leave a meaningful legacy, Tricia’s insights will challenge and inspire. Plus, don’t miss her tales of collaborating with icons like James Gandolfini and Susan Sarandon, and her hilarious take on 80s nostalgia. Hit play and discover why Tricia Brouk is the influential voice you didn’t know you needed. RELATED LINKS: Tricia Brouk’s Website Tricia’s Book: The Influential Voice LinkedIn Profile The Big Talk Podcast FEEDBACK: Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Mad Science: AI, Mental Health, and the Future of Sanity 46:08

27 days ago46:08

46:08

Get ready for a wild ride with Matt Lewis , the Tony Stark-meets-Jerry Seinfeld of the mental health AI world. As a multi-degreed polymath, Matt has been ahead of the curve on AI since MySpace was a thing. In this episode, we dive into everything from neuroethics and AI-powered mental health solutions to existential fears of Skynet ruining your day. Matt shares the real scoop on how AI can revolutionize diagnosis, therapy, and even the very definition of sanity—while hilariously lamenting the difficulty of spelling “rhythm.” If you’ve ever wondered whether AI is here to save the world or just mess with your playlist, this episode is for you. Join us as we balance hope, skepticism, and an unhealthy number of 80s references in this thought-provoking, laugh-out-loud conversation. RELATED LINKS Matt Lewis on LinkedIn LLMental Official Website Matt’s Feature on MM+M Online FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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[BONUS] HannahPod: A Solo Act with Dad 15:44

5 weeks ago15:44

15:44

What happens when you give a 14-year-old the mic and let her fly solo without her twin brother? Magic, that’s what. This episode of Out of Patients features my daughter, Hannah, on her seventh (yes, seventh) appearance on the show, but this time she’s stealing the spotlight solo. From reminiscing about slushy Christmas Eves and rare baby illnesses to deep dives into the hexagonal perfection of honeycombs, this mini-episode is packed with wit, banter, and a healthy dose of dad jokes. We touch on everything from gaming nostalgia to family quirks, proving once again that sometimes the best conversations happen when you just press record. Whether you’re a longtime listener of the Zachary family chronicles or new to the Out of Patients universe, this one’s got laughs, lessons, and a little love for everyone. Feedback Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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The Natanya Experience: A Tsunami of Wit, Wisdom, and Whoa 36:53

5 weeks ago36:53

36:53

Prepare for a whirlwind of brilliance with Dr. Natanya Wachtel—a self-proclaimed "failed therapist" turned media maven, behavioral strategist, and all-around badass. In this episode, we dive into her transformative journey from navigating personal loss to spearheading innovative mental health initiatives and reimagining her own identity in a world that loves labels. From her esoteric love of theater and eclectic career in Big Pharma to candid insights about obesity, Ozempic, and the not-so-great healthcare system, Natanya delivers an unfiltered look at life’s complexities with humor and heart. Expect laughs, life lessons, and a few "did-they-really-just-say-that" moments as we explore why it’s okay to be a hot mess—and how embracing it can lead to your most authentic self. This is not just an episode; it’s an experience. Buckle up. RELATED LINKS: Dr. Natanya Wachtel’s Website Dr. Natanya Wachtel on LinkedIn Dr. Natanya Wachtel on Marquis Who's Who Dr. Natanya Wachtel on World’s Leaders FEEDBACK: Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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“Don’t Google It” with Jen Singer 36:16

6 weeks ago36:16

36:16

Back for Round 2 and wielding her wit like a machete, Jen Singer returns to Out of Patients with Matthew Zachary. Cancer survivor, heart failure "graduate," and creator of the ' Just Diagnosed Guides ,' Jen has seen it all — and she's here to help YOU see it all more clearly. From dismantling medical jargon to calling BS on "Stay Strong" toxic positivity, this conversation is a masterclass in how to survive, thrive, and laugh in the face of life's curveballs. Need a guide on what to do the day sh*t hits the fan? Jen wrote it. Need permission to be pissed off? She grants it. From 'elegant tumors' to 'unremarkable tests' (the best kind), this episode is a hilarious, human, and wholly unfiltered look at the realities of being sick in America. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll definitely Google 'heart boo-boo.' RELATED LINKS: Jen Singer’s Website About Jen Singer - Just Diagnosed Guides Just Diagnosed Guides Jen’s LinkedIn Just Diagnosed Guide on National Breast Cancer Foundation Episode 269: Jen Singer on Out of Patients (2022) FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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No Time for Why: Sean Wachter Returns 37:39

7 weeks ago37:39

37:39

Prepare to be inspired and entertained as Sean Wachter returns to Out of Patients ! Sean, aka "The Cancer Fighter," is a two-time melanoma survivor, professional wrestler, coffee shop entrepreneur, and self-proclaimed 'f**ked up Forrest Gump.' With a resume that includes Madison Square Garden, WWE dreams, and a 'We Got This' People's Champion belt, Sean's journey of triumph over cancer (and doctors who didn’t believe him) is nothing short of extraordinary. This episode dives into Sean’s fight against misdiagnosis, his wrestling odyssey, and his hilarious philosophy of not having “time for why.” Get ready for a rollercoaster of grit, humor, and inspiration, capped with a dose of 80s nostalgia and a no-holds-barred approach to life. RELATED LINKS Sean Wachter's Instagram : @thecancerfighterseanwachter Sean Wachter on LinkedIn : Sean Wachter Overcoming Brain Mets and LMD: Sean’s Melanoma Journey : Cure Melanoma Blog "Live and Live Fully" Story : V Foundation FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Mariana Arnaut: The After Cancer 37:05

8 weeks ago37:05

37:05

In this lively and insightful episode of Out of Patients, host Matthew Zachary sits down with Mariana Arnaut , Founder and CEO of The After Cancer, a groundbreaking platform helping cancer survivors navigate the uncharted waters of life post-treatment. Joined by his sharp and witty Chief of Staff, Jen Ramprasad, the trio dives into the gaps in survivorship care, the rise of "cancer retail," and the moral dilemmas of monetizing support services for the cancer community. Mariana also shares the story behind Cards Against Cancer, a clever spin on the popular party game that has sparked meaningful—and sometimes hilarious—conversations within the cancer survivor community. From the challenges of living in Portugal to the wild world of U.S. healthcare, this episode is a mix of humor, humanity, and hard truths. RELATED LINKS The After Cancer CancerCon American Cancer Society's Report on Survivorship Costs Connect with Mariana Arnaut FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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[BONUS] The GenX/GenZ Ultimate Therapy Throwdown 43:36

9 weeks ago43:36

43:36

What happens when two fresh-faced Gen Zers—Matthew Zachary Worldwide Chief of Staff Jenisa Ramprasad and Marketing Intern Lauren Woodring —sit down with a cranky, nostalgia-fueled Gen Xer (ahem, Matthew Zachary)? Chaos, hilarity, and surprisingly deep insights. This is not your typical Out of Patients episode. What started as a casual, unscripted chat turned into a generational therapy session touching on everything from floppy disks, cassette tapes, and AOL chat rooms to TikTok-induced existential crises and frenetic media consumption with no "ohio baby gronk rizz" or "skibidi toilets". (Whatever that means) Why are Gen Zs so quick to cut off friends? Can you really form deep bonds with someone you've never met in person? And what was the deal with Blu-rays anyway? (Thank you, Producer Kyle Moore, for your added insights) We tackled all the questions, shared plenty of laughs (awkward and intentional), and even found common ground in our shared love for real, human connection. If you've ever felt caught between the "back in my day" crowd and the "why does everything move so slow?" generation, this episode is for you. Prepare to channel your inner dope/phat/fresh inner teenager while cringing to pop culture mansplaining, and maybe even feel inspired to unplug for a minute (but only after you finish listening, of course). RELATED LINKS Jenisa Ramprasad on LinkedIn Lauren Woodring on LinkedIn SUNY Binghamton University FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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The 2024 Koby & Hannah Year End Wrap Up 34:39

10 weeks ago34:39

34:39

It’s the annual Out of Patients tradition you didn’t know you needed—Matthew’s miracle IVF twins, Koby and Hannah, are back on the mic for their 5th appearance! These famous 14.5-year-old personalities are here to make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even sing the alphabet incorrectly (spoiler: they hate the new version). Dive into a delightful blend of sibling banter, high school stories, Broadway show recaps, and unexpected eyebrow-shaving anecdotes. Whether it's Koby’s law class revelations or Hannah’s set design dreams, this episode captures the chaos, charm, and brilliance of two teens navigating life—and making their dad immensely proud. Prepare for laughter, nostalgia, and some genuine moments of gratitude that will leave you smiling. So, tune in for the podcast episode, which is as much a gift to listeners as it is to the proudest dad in podcasting! FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Pixel Perfect: Jordan and Anna Rathkopf 38:04

11 weeks ago38:04

38:04

When life hands you a cancer diagnosis, you grab a camera. Anna and Jordan Rathkopf turned their battle with HER2-positive breast cancer into a groundbreaking photojournalistic journey. Join Matthew Zachary as he chats with the Rathkopfs about their book, HER2: The Diagnosed, The Caregiver, and Their Son , their nonprofit work, and the absurdity of pink-washed cancer campaigns. It's a raw, funny, and heartfelt discussion about navigating illness, caregiving, and the power of authenticity in art and life. RELATED LINKS Anna Rathkopf on LinkedIn Jordan Rathkopf on LinkedIn Daylight Books Upcoming Exhibitions : Check out their nonprofit work at PCAC.ngo . FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Crossroads4Hope: Amy Sutton’s Guide to Navigating Cancer Support 36:27

12 weeks ago36:27

36:27

In this full-circle conversation, Matthew Zachary sits down with Amy Sutton, Executive Director of Crossroads4Hope , to dive deep into the evolution of cancer support and the profound legacy of organizations like the Wellness Community. From reminiscing about pre-internet cancer advocacy to envisioning a future rooted in public health and equity, this episode explores the human side of care in ways only Matthew can deliver—with wit, humor, and an unfiltered lens. Amy shares her journey from working at Rand McNally (yes, the map company) to becoming a torchbearer for cancer patients, caregivers, and survivors. They tackle everything from the challenges of sustaining local cancer support services in a digital-first world to how the healthcare system neglects the psychosocial needs of both patients and caregivers. Together, they unpack the crucial role of social workers, the necessity of caregiver inclusion, and why navigating life post-cancer diagnosis demands more than just clinical solutions. Whether you’re a cancer survivor, caregiver, healthcare professional, or just someone trying to make sense of this messy world, this episode promises insights, laughs, and plenty of Gen X nostalgia. Plus, find out why Matthew thinks we should stock up on Rand McNally maps for the apocalypse. Be sure to check out Crossroads4Hope’s groundbreaking Professional Development Conference in March 2025, where Matthew will be the keynote speaker. More details at MatthewZachary.com/C4H. RELATED LINKS Crossroads4Hope Website About Amy Sutton FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Pulverizing The Stigma: The Return of Robots in Jon Nelson's Head 37:06

13 weeks ago37:06

37:06

In this highly anticipated follow-up, we welcome back Jon Nelson , the man who went from battling relentless, treatment-resistant depression to becoming a pioneering advocate for mental health. Jon’s journey with deep brain stimulation (DBS) wasn’t just a breakthrough; it was a total game-changer. Now, with “robots in his head” pumping 23 million pulses a day, Jon’s mission has evolved from mere survival to a full-throttle campaign to ‘Pulverize the Stigma.’ We delve into the shocking realities of stigma, outdated treatments, the price of mental illness on families, and how a bold middle finger to societal norms is long overdue. RELATED LINKS Jon's First Episode: "Robots In My Head: Deep Brain Stimulation" Jon's Website "Jon Nelson: Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I Was First Diagnosed With Mental Illness" "Today’s Depression Treatments Don’t Help Everyone" "#37: Jon Nelson – DBS for Depression Saved My Life: Defying Stigma in Mental Health" FEEDBACK Like this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email podcast@matthewzachary.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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The Legend of Jonny Imerman 43:06

14 weeks ago43:06