What happens when diagnosis, diapers, and deep love collide?

Haley Pollack, Executive Director at Bright Spot Network, and a mom who faced stage III colon cancer with a six-month-old and a preschooler, shares how she navigated weaning before chemo, naming “the scary thing” with young kids, and building a national community so no parent has to do this alone. Amri and Haley talk about gaslighting (from self and systems), the reality of survivorship, and the small, loving actions that carry families through.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to talk to very young children about cancer: naming it, previewing changes, and using books, routines, and “the team” to create safety.
• Why tiny acts matter on impossible days: The “one foot in front of the other” mindset that helps parents keep moving.
• The support parents can access right now: Bright Spot’s free groups (including survivorship), kids’ circles, book program, teddy bear clinics, financial grants, and navigation help.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:16) A journey through cancer

(02:38) Haley's diagnosis and early challenges

(04:26) Navigating motherhood and cancer

(07:16) The emotional toll and family conversations

(19:59) Introducing Bright Spot Network

(22:19) Support programs for parents and kids

(26:20) Survivorship and ongoing challenges

(33:24) Haley’s advice to parents navigating cancer

Resources:

• Check out Bright Spot Network: https://www.brightspotnetwork.org/
• Check out Bright Club and Bright Circle: https://www.brightspotnetwork.org/bright-club-and-bright-circle
• Connect with Bright Spot Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightspotnetwork
• Connect with Haley Pollack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-pollack-78355410a/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

What happens when grace, grief, and womanhood intersect?

Dr. Jessica Zucker, PhD, a Los Angeles–based psychologist specializing in reproductive and maternal mental health, the author of I Had a Miscarriage and Normalize It, shares her journey of navigating breast cancer while raising her children, building her career, and redefining what it means to show up with vulnerability and truth. She reflects on surrendering perfection, rejecting toxic positivity, and embracing her body through tenderness rather than battle.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Jessica talks to her kids about illness: From openness to honesty, she shares the importance of helping children process hard things without fear.
• Why she rejected the “warrior” narrative: Discover how she chose compassion over combat and what it means to honor your body’s limits.
• What it means to find self-compassion through pain: Jessica explores how embracing imperfection, rest, and emotional truth leads to deeper healing.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:10) Meet Dr. Jessica Zucker

(02:07) Dr. Zucker's cancer journey

(06:45) Navigating family conversations

(11:53) The emotional toll and coping mechanisms

(14:07) Shame and illness

(30:52) The pressure of perfection

(36:09) Self-compassion and healing

Resources:

• Visit Dr. Jessica Zucker’ site: https://www.drjessicazucker.com/
• Connect with Dr. Jessica Zucker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-zucker-ph-d-2397812
• Connect with Dr. Jessica Zucker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihadamiscarriage/?hl=en
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

What happens when faith, motherhood, and a stage four diagnosis collide?

Mercedes Wilson, TV host, author, entrepreneur, and founder of For Our Daughters, shares her journey of living with metastatic breast cancer while raising four kids, running a nonprofit, and redefining what it means to truly live. First diagnosed at 28 and now facing cancer’s return years later, Mercedes opens up about surrendering control, embracing her faith, and creating a “living plan” rooted in intentionality, connection, and purpose.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Mercedes talks to her kids about cancer: From toddlers to young adults, Mercedes shares how she approaches hard conversations with her children—and why openness, honesty, and family unity guide their journey.
• Why surrender isn’t giving up—it’s letting go: Hear how Mercedes reframed her mindset from survival mode to spiritual surrender, and why that shift brought her peace, clarity, and deeper purpose.
• What it means to build a living plan: Mercedes walks us through her holistic approach to healing, including therapy, faith, nutrition, support networks, and the power of simply being present.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:02) Meet Mercedes Wilson

(01:47) First diagnosis and treatment

(04:15) Parenting through cancer

(05:53) Open communication with children

(10:01) Living plan and support system

(16:00) Spiritual journey and surrender

(19:58) Family connection and rituals

(22:08) Empowering young women

(24:00) Message to other moms

Resources:

• Visit Mercedes’ site: https://mercedesewilson.com/
• Connect with Mercedes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mercedes-wilson-777a9666/
• Connect with Mercedes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercedesewilson/?hl=en
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

What happens when caregiving meets the heart of advocacy, balance, and resilience?

Ashley Blackington, founder of Dovetail and board-certified occupational therapist, shares her insights on caregiving, managing cancer journeys, and supporting families through complex health experiences. With over 15 years in the healthcare industry, Ashley opens up about the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving, the importance of self-care, and the ways caregivers can build a supportive network without losing themselves in the process.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The emotional weight of caregiving: Ashley discusses the toll caregiving can take on families, and how to manage the physical and emotional exhaustion while still providing the best care.
• Creating a caregiving network: Learn how Dovetail's platform empowers caregivers & families to manage tasks, communicate, and collaborate with others in real-time, making caregiving a shared responsibility.
• Why self-care is non-negotiable for caregivers: Ashley highlights the importance of caregivers prioritizing their own well-being in order to better support their loved ones.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:07) Ashley’s background as an OT

(04:22) Challenges of caregiving in cancer treatment

(07:30) Emotional impact of caregiving on families

(10:45) Creating a supportive caregiving network

(15:20) Dovetail: Platform for shared caregiving

(18:40) Managing caregiver fatigue and stress

(22:10) Importance of self-care in caregiving

(26:30) Strategies for balancing caregiving and personal life

(30:15) Role of humor and connection in caregiving

(35:00) Advice for new caregivers

Resources:

• Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/
• Connect with Dovetail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mydovetail.app/
• Check out Dovetail: https://dovetaildesigns.co/
• Get the Dovetail app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

As a mom of two, entrepreneur, community builder, and cancer thriver, Amri Kibbler opens up about the “in-between” seasons: when you’re not who you were, and not yet who you’re becoming. In this solo episode, she shares how she told her children about her diagnosis, what she wishes she’d done differently (including hiding a temporary ostomy), and the practical systems, scripts, and community resources that helped her family cope. Amri lays out a tender, tactical guide for mothers, caregivers, and anyone navigating cancer alongside real life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to talk to kids about cancer: Amri explains why using the word “cancer” matters, when to share the news as a family, and how to set clear expectations around treatment days.
• Rituals that reduce guilt and anxiety: Amri shares “low-energy” activities, dice jars, and small things to look forward to that help alleviate the emotional strain during and after treatment.
• Real support through the cancer journey: Amri explores the power of delegating updates, using community resources (rides, registries, hotlines), and focusing on small, meaningful connections over grand gestures.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:58) Facing cancer as a mom

(02:21) Creating a supportive space

(02:47) Sharing personal experiences

(03:45) Navigating parenting and cancer

(05:16) Telling my kids about my diagnosis

(07:41) Dealing with recurrence and transparency

(09:11) Practical tips for cancer patients

(17:59) Importance of support systems

(20:44) Self-care and wellness

(22:58) Resources and recommendations

Resources:

• The American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org
• Check out the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery: https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery.html
• Elissa Kalver’s registry, recommendations, and resources for cancer patients and caregivers: https://www.wegotthis.org
• The Colorectal Cancer Alliance: https://colorectalcancer.org/
• My Cancer Family: https://www.mycancerfamily.com
• COLONTOWN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COLONTOWN
• COLONTOWN’s official website: https://colontown.org/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

What happens when a cancer diagnosis shakes up everything about family life, support, and resilience?

In this episode, I sit down with Maribel Vargas, associate director of Cancer Center Partnerships at American Cancer Society, Elish McGrath, director of patient services at Cancer Support Team, and Jennifer Ricca,  a certified child life specialist, CTF program manager at Cancer Support Community. Together, they share their personal and professional experiences navigating cancer’s impact on families and offer practical advice for parents communicating with children about a cancer diagnosis.

Maribel highlights the rise in cancer rates among younger adults and the growing need for tailored survivor support. Elish shares her childhood experience of having a mother with cancer, emphasizing the importance of open and honest conversations with kids. Jennifer offers practical strategies to help parents navigate these tough discussions across different age groups, ensuring children feel safe, heard, and empowered throughout the process.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The rise of cancer rates in younger individuals: Maribel discusses how this shift is affecting families, especially as parents face the challenges of cancer while raising children.
• The emotional impact of parenting with cancer: Elish shares how her family navigated the challenges of cancer while her mom was undergoing treatment and why open, honest conversations with children are so important.
• How to support children through a parent’s cancer journey: Jennifer offers tips for keeping kids engaged and informed, ensuring they feel included in the process without feeling burdened by the diagnosis.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(00:59) Personal story: Cancer’s impact on families

(01:58) Understanding cancer trends with Maribel Vargas

(02:09) Exploring cancer statistics and risk factors

(04:22) Assessing cancer risk: What you need

(07:35) Support systems for cancer survivorship

(10:40) American Cancer Society's key programs

(14:52) Local cancer resources and support services

(17:23) How to talk to kids about cancer

(33:29) Understanding children's reactions to cancer

(34:05) Talking to younger children about cancer

(35:36) Teenagers and cancer: What they should know

(37:52) Supporting older kids through cancer

(47:26) Maintaining structure and routine for kids

(49:03) Empowering children with decision-making skills

Resources:

• Connect with Maribel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maribel-vargas-b4b64640/
• Check out American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/
• Check out Cancer Support Team: https://cancersupportteam.org/
• Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-ricca-104151b8/
• Check out Cancer Support Community: https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

What happens when your ex becomes your biggest source of support during your darkest hour?

Gina Lamanna, breast cancer survivor and founder of The Fondle Project, shares her deeply personal journey through illness, divorce, healing, and rediscovering confidence. Joined by her ex-husband Steven Binder, the pair reflect on co-parenting through cancer and the surprising strength of their evolving relationship. From diagnosis, support systems, and redefining family, they open up about how love, respect, and humor helped them navigate the unimaginable.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Co-parenting through crisis: How Steven supported Gina emotionally, logistically, and medically—despite being in the middle of a divorce.
• The ripple effect of illness: Why checking in on caregivers and partners is as vital as supporting the patient.
• Building something from the ashes: How Gina transformed her experience into a mission to help others through The Fondle Project.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:25) Gina's diagnosis and initial reactions

(02:06) Navigating health insurance and divorce

(03:06) Breaking the news and emotional impact

(04:23) Gina's medical journey and support system

(05:40) Steven's role and emotional support

(06:42) Co-parenting through cancer

(10:20) Impact on children and family dynamics

(20:20) Reflections on co-parenting and divorce

(25:49) Supporting partners during cancer

Resources:

• Connect with Gina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginalamanna/
• Connect with The Fondle Project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefondleproject
• The Fondle Project’s official website: https://thefondleproject.org/
• Listen to part 1 of this conversation in our previous episode with Gina: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-confidence-comeback-gina-lamanna-on-healing/id1821209526?i=1000723856203
• Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-binder-8269515/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com

What does healing look like after the hardest chapter of your life?

Gina Lamanna, breast cancer survivor and founder of The Fondle Project, shares her deeply personal journey through illness, divorce, healing, and rediscovering confidence. From dating after reconstructive surgery to launching a nonprofit that helps women reclaim their bodies and voices, Gina offers a powerful perspective on what it means to show up for yourself in the aftermath of trauma, and to create space for women to heal, thrive, and embrace their wholeness—scars and all.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Reclaiming self-love after survival: Gina opens up about the emotional and physical toll of breast cancer—and how dressing up, dancing, and even dating became acts of self-healing.
• The impact of community in recovery: From her ex-husband to a supportive new partner, Gina’s story is a testament to the people who show up—and the importance of building spaces where others can feel seen.
• Redefining healing and empowerment: Through The Fondle Project, Gina is helping women feel beautiful, informed, and supported—offering tools, education, and holistic resources that go far beyond the pink ribbon.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:51) Intro

(01:47) Gina's journey to self-love and confidence

(03:22) Facing fears and building confidence

(06:45) Finding love and support

(10:20) The birth of The Fondle Project

(14:44) Empowering women through self-care

(25:32) Learning to trust intuition

Resources:

• Connect with Gina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginalamanna/
• Connect with The Fondle Project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefondleproject
• The Fondle Project’s official website: https://thefondleproject.org/
• Connect with Amri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amri-kibbler-71333b15/
• Connect with The Space Between on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetween_cancer.family
• Connect with Amri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Amri’s official website: https://www.amrikibbler.com/
• Check out S.E.A. Waves of Support Healing Selenite Bracelets: https://seawavesofsupport.com