Episodes

  • Larger bodies in radiography

    Larger bodies in radiography
    Jul 1 2026
    How can radiography and cancer care become more inclusive for people living in larger bodies?

    In this episode, Carolyn Graham shares her lived experience of radiography as a person living in a larger body, while Dr Amy Hancock, Director of Medical Imaging at the University of Exeter, explores the research behind the barriers many patients in larger bodies face when accessing healthcare. Together, we discuss weight stigma in healthcare, the impact of negative radiography experiences on cancer screening and diagnosis, and how simple changes in communication, equipment, and patient-centred care can improve outcomes. From providing appropriately sized gowns to using respectful language and having open conversations about comfort and support needs, this episode highlights practical ways healthcare professionals can create more compassionate and inclusive cancer services.

    Whether you're a radiographer, healthcare professional, patient advocate, or someone interested in health equity, this conversation offers valuable insights into improving patient experience and reducing healthcare inequities.

    Content warning: This episode includes discussions of body size, obesity, weight stigma and lived experience of cancer, which some listeners may find upsetting or triggering.

    Links from the episode:
    University of Exeter - Larger Bodies in Radiography (LBinRAD)

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, and to make cancer care fair for everyone. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.


    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    41 mins
  • The Cancer Tapestry: Storytelling and connection through art

    The Cancer Tapestry: Storytelling and connection through art
    Jun 17 2026
    What if art could say the things people find hardest to put into words?

    In this special live episode from Macmillan’s 2026 Professionals Conference, we explore The Cancer Tapestry- a global community art project bringing together over 1,000 volunteers to stitch their lived experiences of cancer into a powerful collective story.

    Joined by artist Andrew Crummy MBE, surgeon Rodney Mountain, and Macmillan’s Eleanor Ogilvie, we discuss how creative expression, storytelling, and community-based art can support emotional wellbeing, reduce isolation, and enhance personalised cancer care. This inspiring conversation highlights the role of arts in healthcare, social prescribing, and person-centred approaches to cancer support.

    Discover how creativity can transform cancer care experiences, spark meaningful conversations beyond clinical settings, and connect individuals, families, and communities around the world.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Find out more about becoming a Macmillan Affiliate member
    If you are a health or social care professional working in cancer care, visit membership.macmillan.org.uk to find out more about our Macmillan Membership which includes a range of education and training resources and access to our Learning Hub.

    Links from the episode:
    'A Good Thing To Do: Andrew Crummy's Cancer Tapestry' documentary
    Andrew Crummy's website
    CanDu charity website

    Macmillan information and resources for people affected by cancer:
    Head and neck cancer
    Talking about cancer
    How cancer may affect you emotionally

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, and to make cancer care fair for everyone. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Gut health and cancer care

    Gut health and cancer care
    Jun 3 2026
    In this episode of the Cancer Professionals Podcast, Professor Julian Marchesi and Dr Emma Nicholson explain how the gut microbiome influences immunity, digestion and treatment outcomes. We explore how interventions such as antibiotics and stem cell transplants can disrupt microbiome balance, and examine emerging approaches like faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and insights from the MAST trial. This episode highlights why microbiome diversity matters and what it could mean for improving cancer recovery and care. This episode was produced in collaboration with the UK Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS).

    This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Find out more about becoming a Macmillan Affiliate member
    If you are a health or social care professional working in cancer care, visit membership.macmillan.org.uk to find out more about our Macmillan Membership which includes a range of education and training resources and access to our Learning Hub.

    Links from the episode:
    Enhanced Acute Oncology - Nutrition

    The MAST study: Intestinal Microbiota Transplant Prior to Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant (MAST) study

    Intestinal Microbiota Transplant Prior to Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant (MAST) trial: study protocol for a multicentre, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, phase IIa trial

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    40 mins
  • Macmillan Membership: Sparking a revolution in cancer care

    Macmillan Membership: Sparking a revolution in cancer care
    May 20 2026
    In this episode, recorded live at Macmillan's 2026 Professionals Conference, we explore Macmillan’s new workforce vision: Macmillan Membership. We are joined by 3 colleagues who played a key role in the development of Macmillan Membership: Kim Bowles, Dr Claire Taylor MBE and Emma Quintal. Hear how this initiative aims to build a more empowered, connected and capable cancer workforce, driving equitable and personalised care. We also discuss how Macmillan Professionals and affiliate members will be supported, recognised, and given the tools to grow, innovate, and lead change.

    Find out more about becoming a Macmillan Affiliate member
    If you are a health or social care professional working in cancer care, visit membership.macmillan.org.uk to find out more about our Macmillan Membership which includes a range of education and training resources and access to our Learning Hub.

    Links from the episode
    ACCEND course explorer

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    58 mins
  • Living well with HIV and cancer

    Living well with HIV and cancer
    May 6 2026
    In this episode, we explore HIV and cancer, focusing on how to better support people navigating diagnosis and treatment. Through conversation with Roland Chesters and Emma Davey, we discuss changing outcomes in HIV care, increased cancer risk, and the challenges of navigating multiple healthcare teams.

    The conversation highlights the impact of stigma, the importance of clear communication and inclusive language, and why person-centred, collaborative care is essential for people living with HIV and cancer.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and HIV which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode:
    • EACS Guidelines | EACSociety
    • People First Charter - HIV Language, Person First Language
    • HIV Drug Interactions
    • HIV | Terrence Higgins Trust
    • George House Trust
    • Roland Chesters ‘Ripples from the edge of life’
    • To find out more about the HOPE programme for your patients: macmillan.org.uk/healthcare-professionals/for-your-patients/hope-programme.
    • To find out more about becoming a HOPE facilitator, search ‘HOPE’ on Macmillan’s Learning Hub.

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    48 mins
  • More than a diagnosis: Dementia and cancer together (Part 2)

    More than a diagnosis: Dementia and cancer together (Part 2)
    Apr 15 2026
    In part 2 of this 2-part episode, we continue the conversation with Andy Woodhead, who is living with dementia, Rachel Daly- Academy Lead Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, and Lorraine Burgess- Macmillan Dementia Nurse Consultant. We explore the realities of living with both dementia and cancer and why person-centred care, clear communication, and greater dementia awareness are essential in supporting people living with cancer and their families.

    Links from the episode:
    Dementia UK website

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and dementia, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    36 mins
  • More than a diagnosis: Dementia and cancer together (Part 1)

    More than a diagnosis: Dementia and cancer together (Part 1)
    Apr 1 2026
    In part 1 of this 2-part episode, we explore the realities of living with both dementia and cancer, and the isolation that can arise when experiences are misunderstood. Through powerful lived experience and expert insight, our guests, Andy Woodhead- who is living with dementia, Rachel Daly- Academy Lead Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, and Lorraine Burgess- Macmillan Dementia Nurse Consultant, discuss the emotional impact of diagnosis, the challenges of treatment and decision-making, and why person-centred care, clear communication, and greater dementia awareness are essential in supporting people living with cancer and their families.

    Links from the episode:
    Dementia UK website

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and dementia, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    44 mins
  • Polypharmacy: The human side of prescribing

    Polypharmacy: The human side of prescribing
    Mar 18 2026
    In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked challenge of polypharmacy. Lelly Oboh, Consultant Pharmacist- Care of older people, and Sheetal Ladval, Chief Pharmaceutical Officers Clinical Fellow, share insights on managing multiple medications, the importance of person-centered care, and strategies to reduce the burden of complex drug regimens to improve quality of life. Links from the episode: Healthcare professionals: Help us promote the NHS medical exemption certificate National overprescribing review report - GOV.UK Understanding polypharmacy, overprescribing and deprescribing Resources to share with the people you support: Practical tips for caring for someone with cancer Going home from hospital Common questions about painkillers Further information on polypharmacy: SPS series of articles on polypharmacy. This includes resources , tools, videos and podcasts to support medication reviews Health Innovation Network (HIN) – National Polypharmacy Programme (England) NHS Scotland / Scottish Government Polypharmacy Guidance (Realistic Prescribing) British Geriatrics Society – Polypharmacy & Older Adult Pharmacy Resources Polypharmacy in Cancer & Long‑Term Conditions Project We are actively seeking participants: any healthcare professional involved in cancer care or long‑term condition management (including oncology, community and practice‑based pharmacists; oncologists; GPs; oncology, primary care, community and specialist nurses; allied health professionals), as well as patients and carers, to take part in a survey exploring the barriers and enablers to effective polypharmacy management. Please reach out to Sheetal Ladva at sladva@macmillan.org.uk if interested. Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised. This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    38 mins