One Tough B

When Dianne couldn't find a natural wig during her chemo treatment, she decided to take matters into her own hands and start a company to help other women like her. That's how Coils to Locs was founded. Listen to her inspiring story, and how her cancer journey turned her into an entrepreneur. 

Christine had a unique perspective when she was diagnosed with cancer: she had been working as an oncology nurse since she got her license. On this episode, Christine shares how becoming a cancer patient informs her nursing practice, and how she hopes her book, Both Sides of the Bedside, will help doctors and other health care professionals have more empathy in their treatment. 

From Stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis to remission for 8 years, Elise shares her amazing journey in honor of Pancreatic Cancer Month. Listen to how she learned of her diagnosis and why she believes it's so important for women to advocate for themselves and their health. 

When Asha was diagnosed with breast cancer, she found solace through fitness. Here's her inspiring story, and how she became a spokesperson for the Target mastectomy swimwear line. 

Just two months after winning Olympic gold in cross country skiing, Kikkan Randall was diagnosed with breast cancer. How did she use what she learned from training for five Olympic games to help her on her cancer journey? Listen to her inspiring story and see how being a part of a team was the catalyst for healing. 

When AnnMarie was diagnosed with breast cancer, she started a blog so that her family could stay attuned to her treatment and healing journey. But when people from all over the world started reading it, she realized she could do more with her platform. That's how Stupid Dumb Breast Cancer was born. Listen to AnnMarie's inspiring story, and learn how a pretty pair of pink stilettos helped her get through her treatment. 

When Sonya starting losing her hair during cancer treatment, she found herself experiencing pain when wearing wigs. So she decided to make her own head wraps that were comfortable and stylish, which is now her thriving business, StyleEsteem. On this episode, she shares her inspiring story of how her entrepreneurial spirit was nourished during her cancer healing process.

Jenna was diagnosed with an extremely rare cancer at a very young age, which led her to start a blog so she could share her experiences with her friends and family. As it grew in popularity, Jenna felt drawn to do more, which is how her foundation Twist Out Cancer was born.

Remember the I Love Boobies saying that became popular a few years ago? That all started thanks to Shaney Jo, founder of Keep a Breast Foundation, which is dedicated to helping spread breast cancer awareness among young women. Listen to her inspiring story! 

When Bianca Muñiz was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer at the age of 11, her life was turned upside down. Then, at 22, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Music has always played an important part of Bianca's life, but now, as a performer, her music has gone beyond supporting her own healing process and touches others too. You can listen to some of Bianca's music on this episode of Real Women Real Stories. 

When Pamela's sister Louisa was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, they both became instant advocates, which led them to found T. E. A. L. What started as one walk has become a non-profit serving women with ovarian cancer and their families, while helping to spread the word about the signs and symptoms and advocating for an effective screening.

When Shannon couldn't find an ovarian cancer community to connect with after her diagnosis at a young age, she decided to start her own. That's how Teal Diva was born. All month, we'll be sharing the stories of amazing ovarian cancer survivors (and their allies). Shannon's story is the first in this inspiring series. 

Diagnosed with breast cancer at just 27, Dana's life in the fast lane of the fashion world came to a screeching halt. But her experience inspired her to use her talent and passion to help other survivors, which is how her lingerie company AnaOno was born. She has dedicated her life to inspiring other women, and reminding them to "feel the beauty, feel like you."

When Sylvia's idol, and then, Aunt died of breast cancer, she decided to dedicate her life as an ally to the underserved Black breast cancer community, from writing a book to showcasing amazing images of breast cancer survivors at museums, even starting her own publishing company. See how being touched by cancer as a family member can inspire someone to support the community. 

What started as just another visit to an aesthetician turned into 2nd degree burns and an idea for a product for Suzanna Sinatra. But when she was diagnosed with cancer, Suzanne realized her invention, Private Packs, could help a whole lot more women.

Marquina was a busy mom when she got devastating news: a breast cancer diagnosis. But what she did next, tapping into her background in competitive air guitaring, helped her (and many other women) get through treatment. Now, she is sharing stories of other survivors in her new book, Tough.

Get ready for Season 3 of Real Women, Real Stories, featuring all new women, with all new inspiring stories! Here's a little taste of what to expect from this new season. Make sure to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. New episodes launch next week. 

With parents who were substance abusers, Geri Lynn found inspiration in their journey and her own healing, propelling her into a career as a mental health professional. Today, she provides services for underserved populations, and has written her first book Mainlining Philly: Survival, Hope, and Resisting Drug Addiction.

LaTanya’s mother wasn’t able to take her many places when she was a child. That’s part of what motivated her to start her non-profit LaTanya & TheYouth of Englewood, a safe haven for many children in her community. She provides after-school and summer camp services to low-income youth, working tireless daily to give them what she did not have as a child. Her story will inspire you.

When she finally got health insurance coverage at her new job, Tamika had no idea how it would spiral into a cancer diagnosis. But thanks to a doctor who encouraged her to see her OB-GYN and get a Pap-smear, Tamika was able to quickly get treatment for this often deadly disease. On this episode, she shares her journey from TV producer to a sought-after speaker, advocate, and mentor. And why she founded her non-profit, Cervivor.