Voices for Victory

Follow Voices for Victory
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

In Jim Valvano’s famous ESPYs speech, he said there are three things in life that are most important: Where you started, where you are and where you’re going to be. VOICES FOR VICTORY, a new podcast from the V Foundation for Cancer Research, brings an intimate and inspiring view into the lives of people dedicated to Jim’s vision of Victory Over Cancer®. In each episode, we’ll speak with people who have been touched by cancer or who are leading cutting-edge cancer research – and sometimes both. Join the conversation.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research


    • Nov 13, 2023 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 30m AVG DURATION
    • 61 EPISODES

    5 from 22 ratings Listeners of Voices for Victory that love the show mention: uplifting.



    Search for episodes from Voices for Victory with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Voices for Victory

    Episode 22: From Athlete to ESPN Anchor | A Conversation with Michael Eaves

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2023 37:43


    Joining us is small town athlete to national sports anchor, Michael Eaves. On this episode, Michael speaks to the challenges of climbing the ladder, competition in the game of broadcasting, and appreciating the small successes along the way. He also speaks to how a small introduction turns into huge opportunity to impact millions through cancer research fundraising. Tune in to hear how Michael reflects on his personal connection to cancer and how he has impacted new research innovations through his philanthropic efforts.

    Episode 21: Fighting Competition and Cancer | A Conversation with Sarah Citron

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2023 35:39


    In April of 2023, Bricoleur Vineyards co-founder Sarah Hanson Citron received the challenging diagnosis of breast cancer. As an extraordinary leader and devoted young mother, Sarah's strength is an inspiration. In this episode, Sarah shares more about her breast cancer journey and her view of victory. While almost misdiagnosed because of her age, she kept persevering. She wants everyone to know that without her clinical trial - she wouldn't be here and that cancer research is game-changing.

    Episode 20: Finding Her Voice After a Diagnosis | A Conversation with Suleika Jaouad

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2023 37:10


    Joining us today is Suleika Jaouad, an Emmy award-winning journalist and celebrated Ted Speaker. Suleika is the author of the instant New York Times Bestselling memoir: Between Two Kingdoms, which recounts her odyssey of healing and self-discovery after a leukemia diagnosis at the age of 22, which has only a 35% chance of survival. Suleika is now cancer free and is our featured speaker for our wine celebration in Napa Valley at the President's and Vintner Grant Honoree luncheon. 

    Episode 19: 30 Years Later, Jimmy V’s Legacy Continues | A Conversation with Dereck Whittenberg

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2023 37:31


    Dereck Whittenberg was a starting guard on Jim Valvano's 1983 NCAA Basketball Championship team at NCSU. After a successful career at NCSU, the Phoenix Suns drafted him in the 1983 NBA Draft. Dereck later established a coaching career of his own. He joined NC State University (NCSU) as the Director of Player Development in 2013. He was promoted in October 2015 to Associate Athletics Director for Community Relations and Student Support. He also joined ESPN in 2010. His work includes the program Buzzer Beater and select games appearing on ESPNU. Dereck can also be heard on ESPN Radio. Dereck was recently made Event Chair of the V Foundation's 30th Anniversary Gala, which will be held June 3rd in Raleigh, North Carolina at Reynolds Coliseum.

    Episode 18: Promoting Visionary Cancer Research | A Conversation with Dr. Susanna Greer, Chief Scientific Officer of the V Foundation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2023 44:00


    Dr. Susanna Greer, Ph.D. is the Chief Scientific Officer of the V Foundation. In this role, Dr. Greer is a visionary ambassador of the V Foundation who works with our scientific advisory committee to steer funding to the most promising research opportunities. An accomplished strategist. She develops and articulates priorities to enhance the V Foundation's research portfolio, gifts, grants, and sponsorships. These are designed to advance the V Foundation's distinctive brand of cutting-edge and disruptive research. Susanna has spearheaded a grant of her own initiative for the V Foundation and will be leading our V Summit this month. Susanna, thank you for taking the time to join us.

    Episode 17: Challenging the Status Quo in Cancer Research | A Conversation with Greg Simon

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2023 46:44


    Greg Simon served as the president of the Biden Cancer Initiative from 2017 to 2019. Previously, he was the executive director of the White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force under then Vice President Joe Biden in the Obama administration.Greg has held senior positions in both chambers of Congress, served in two presidential administrations, and was a senior strategy consultant to a variety of international technology CEOs. Greg will be a guest speaker at the 2023 Sonoma Epicurean Event raising funds for the V Foundation. 

    Episode 16: A College Football Athlete Inspiring Others | A Conversation with Tylee Craft

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2023 22:55


    Tylee Craft plays wide receiver on the UNC Tar Heels football team. A lifelong athlete, Tylee's life changed on March 14, 2022, when he visited his doctor to discuss issues with back pain and spasms. Tylee's pain indicated a bigger problem, and he was diagnosed with Stage IV large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Since the diagnosis, Tylee has stayed active with his team and shared a message of hope through difficult circumstances. He recently received the 2022 Disney Spirit Award, which honors the most inspirational figure in college football.

    Episode 15: Cancer from the Caregiver’s Perspective | A Conversation with Larry Holm

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2023 36:10


    In 2019, Larry Holm's wife, Sarah, was diagnosed with uterine cancer. After a 21-month battle, she ultimately lost her life to the disease. During Sarah's cancer treatment, Larry became her primary caregiver — managing doctor's appointments, treatments, and daily life tasks — in addition to navigating the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic and maintaining his role as a Supervising Producer at the Golf Channel. In this episode, Larry shares Sarah's cancer story and reiterates the importance of funding the work of doctors and scientists to advance the cure for cancer. 

    Episode 14: Lessons and Stories from 22 Years at ESPN | A Conversation with Stan Verrett

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2022 32:12


    Stan Verrett is a SportsCenter anchor based in Los Angeles who has hosted on ESPN for 22 years and counting. Stan will co-host Boo-Yah! A Celebration of Stuart Scott on December 5th with Hill Harper in New York City. In this episode, Stan reflects on the broadcasting legacy of Stuart Scott and John Saunders and shares stories of his most memorable moments at ESPN so far.

    Episode 13: Providing Hope Through the Power of Cancer Research | A Conversation with Duane Mitchell, MD, PhD

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2022 30:23


    Duane Mitchell, MD, PhD, and a V Foundation Scholar, doesn't settle for good. He aims to be great. He's working on more individualized cancer treatments by training the body's own immune system to attack cancer.

    Episode 12: The Power of Women in Sports | A Conversation with Donna Orender

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2022 29:25


    Donna Orender has been an inspiring, driving force in women's sports. A lifelong basketball player, Donna began playing professionally – in the first professional women's basketball league - in 1979. Her career took her across the sports world — as a television producer for ABC Sports, senior vice president of strategic development for the PGA Tour, and commissioner of the WNBA. Today, Donna serves on the board of the V Foundation and is the founder of Generation W, a community with the mission to educate, inspire, connect, and fuel the power of women's leadership. She believes in the power of sports and storytelling to create community and promote innovative change.

    Episode 11: How This Olympian Used Goal-Setting to Achieve Victory | A Conversation with Chaunte Lowe

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2022 25:38


    Chaunte Lowe is an inspiration. As a four-time Olympic high-jumper, breast cancer survivor, mom, and public speaker, Chaunte has a lot to share about how to work hard, overcome obstacles, and give back in the process. On this episode, Jon Alhart talks with Chaunte about winning an Olympic medal, the story of her breast cancer diagnosis and how it impacted her family, and her excitement about the Title IX Luncheon at The V Foundation's 24th Wine Celebration Event in Napa Valley, California.

    Episode 10: Former NFL Defensive End is Still in the Game as a Cancer Research Advocate | A Conversation with Devon Still

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2022 36:06


    In 2014, Devon Still‘s life changed forever when his daughter Leah was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma stage 4 cancer. In the midst of his NFL career as a defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals, Devon stopped playing to focus on his daughter and her recovery. During Leah's treatment, Still became a champion for cancer research and raised $1 million by selling his jersey. On today's show, Devon Still shares the story of Leah's cancer journey, how spending time with other families helped him feel less alone during his daughter's treatment, and more details about the upcoming V Foundation's 24th Annual Wine Celebration in Napa, California, where Devon will co-host with Coach K.

    Episode 9: 10-Year-Old Brain Cancer Survivor Who Inspired Tom Brady | A Conversation with Noah Reeb

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2022 19:34


    Noah Reeb was diagnosed with brain cancer in February 2021. During his treatments, watching his favorite NFL player, Tom Brady, helped Noah pass the hours in the hospital. When Noah's treatment ended, he attended a Buccaneers game with a homemade sign that read “Tom Brady helped me beat cancer.” Inspired by his courage, Brady gifted Noah and his dad tickets to the Super Bowl. Here today to share his story of resilience and friendship is Noah Reeb!

    Episode 8: The Importance of Financial Support in Cancer Research | A Conversation with Shruti Naik, Ph.D.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2022 21:53


    Dr. Shruti Naik leads a laboratory at New York University's Langone Health that focuses on three major research areas: inflammation, tissue regeneration, and cancer, host-microbe interactions, and early in-life immunity. She is also a V Scholar Grant Recipient. On today's show, host Mick McDonald talks to Dr. Naik about the importance of cutting-edge research in solving hard problems and why donating to cancer research efforts is essential in breaking new ground.

    Episode 7: A Courageous Cancer Fight | A Conversation with Rannen Roberson

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2022 38:38


    On today's episode, host Mick McDonald talks with Rannen Roberson, the Associate Director of Student-Athlete Support Services at the University of Cincinnati. Rannen shares his journey of being diagnosed with testicular cancer, undergoing chemotherapy, and how his understanding of cancer research has evolved as he fights against his cancer diagnosis.

    Episode 6: Legendary Broadcaster | A Conversation with Johnny Holliday

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2022 31:22


    On today's episode, host Mick McDonald talks with longtime sportscaster for the University of Maryland, Johnny Holliday. Johnny shares the story of his grandson Jack's battle with cancer and the toll that took on his entire family. He also reflects on some unforgettable moments in his career including covering the Olympics, as well as his memories of Jim Valvano in the ACC.

    Episode 5: Hangin' with Winners | A Conversation with Author Ray Cole

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2022 18:38


    Ray Cole is a long-time TV executive and supporter of the V Foundation. Ray's new book, Hangin' with Winners, features 32 profiles of impactful people and organizations. The V Foundation is classified as one of the five featured "winning organizations" in Ray's book. In this episode, Ray and Mick talk about Ray's longtime friendship with Dick Vitale, the process of writing his first book, and what being a winner means. 

    Episode 4: Survivor, Advocate, & Inspirational Speaker | A Conversation with Jamie Valvano

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2022 35:12


    Jamie Valvano is not only the daughter of Jim Valvano, but she's also a cancer survivor and an inspirational speaker. In this episode, Mick and Jamie chat about the precious moments Jamie spent with her dad on the road after he received his cancer diagnosis, how she believes he prophetically spoke to her in his famous ESPY speech, and the legacy that her dad has left with the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

    Episode 3: Cancer Survivor and Constellation Brands Fundraising Partner | A Conversation with Daryn Young

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2022 23:44


    On this episode of the Voices for Victory Podcast, host Mick McDonald talks to Daryn Young. Daryn works for Constellation Brands in the beer division. Over the years, Constellation Brands has helped raise millions in support of the V Foundation. Not only is Daryn a long-time supporter of the V Foundation, but he's also a cancer survivor himself.  Mick and Daryn talk about Daryn's battle with cancer, the partnership between Constellation Brands and the V Foundation, and how the March Madness tournament serves as an impetus for a huge fundraising push for the V Foundation and the incredible research that is being funded by our organization.Together with its distributor partners, Corona is proud to honor Coach V's memory, having contributed over $21 million in donations and marketing support since 2010 — including over $1.6 million in donations in 2021 alone.---In each episode, host Mick McDonald talks to courageous and impactful people who have been touched by cancer or who are leading cutting-edge cancer research – and sometimes both. Welcome to this week's episode. We're so happy you're here. If you want to make sure you stay up to date with the podcast and with the V Foundation, be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts.

    Episode 2: Understanding Early Onset Breast Cancer | A Conversation with Dr. Jasmine McDonald

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2022 29:22


    On today's episode of the Voices for Victory Podcast, host Mick McDonald talks with Jasmine McDonald, Ph.D. from Columbia University's Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center.  Dr. McDonald's research on postpartum breast cancer was awarded a V Foundation Grant in 2021. The award goes to researchers who are working on projects that are designed to change the course of cancer. Dr. McDonald's winning project will be supported by this V scholar grant for two years.

    Episode 1: Former ESPN President Dedicated to Ending Cancer: A Conversation with George Bodenheimer

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2022 23:38


    This is the Voices for Victory Podcast, brought to you by the V Foundation for Cancer Research - welcome to this week's episode! On this episode, Mick chats with former president of ESPN and long-time V Foundation board member, George Bodenheimer,  In each episode, host Mick McDonald talks to courageous and impactful people who have been touched by cancer or who are leading cutting-edge cancer research – and sometimes both. If you want to make sure you stay up to date with the podcast and with the V Foundation, be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts.To learn more about the work we're doing in the fight against cancer, visit v.org. 

    Episode 39: A Conversation with Our Supporters

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2021 41:20


    As we wrap up a successful year, we chat with a few of the many V Foundation donors who allow us to fund the best and brightest researchers in the fight against cancer! In our last episode of Voices for Victory, we hear from Monet Leyva, Will Reeves and Brittany Bello and the personal journeys that lead each of them to their commitment to supporting cancer research and why they chose the V Foundation as the vehicle for that support.As the year comes to close, consider a tax-deductible donation to the V Foundation. 100% of your direct donation funds game-changing cancer research. To donate, visit v.org/donate 

    Episode 38: A Conversation with Jay Harris

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2021 19:41


    For #GivingTuesday and as we launch V Week, we're talking with ESPN's Jay Harris. Jay has been with ESPN for nearly two decades and knows firsthand what it means to be right in the mix with V Week. We chat with him about his personal connection to cancer, the influence that Stuart Scott had on other black broadcasters and the importance of taking on disparities in cancer.   If you'd like to join us in funding game-changing cancer research, please visit v.org/donate.  

    Episode 37: A Conversation with Ilan Ben-Hanan

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2021 31:39


    On today's episode, we talk with ESPN Senior Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions Ilan Ben-Hanan. Ilan is a three-time cancer survivor and was an instrumental voice in conceptualizing what is now ESPN's V Week. Ben-Hanan was initially reserved about sharing his personal cancer story with colleagues at ESPN, but was so moved by a speech from Mike Krzyzewski at the annual Dick Vitale Gala that he rose to his feet when Coach K called for survivors to stand.We talk with Ilan about his diagnoses, the first of which occurred as a senior in college, the mental toughness it takes when you face an additional diagnosis years later, and how V Week went from an idea to the fundraising and awareness giant it is today.Tune in for this year's V Week on ESPN beginning on #GivingTuesday (November 30) through Dec.13. And please consider a donation to life-saving cancer research at v.org/donate. 

    Episode 36: A Conversation with Susan Scott

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2021 26:48


    As we approach V Week, we are very excited to be rolling out a new event. BOO-YAH A Celebration of Stuart Scott will take place on Monday, December 6th in New York City. The event will benefit the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund which is dedicated to reducing disparities in cancer outcomes and funding underrepresented minority scientists. A special thanks to our sponsors who have made this event possible including presenting sponsors Bristol Myers Squibb and Disney Ad Sales.Today, we speak with Susan Scott, a committee member for the new event and Stuart's sister. We talk to Susan about what it was like growing up with Stuart, how the family handled his celebrity status while fighting cancer and what we can expect from the event in December. To learn more about the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Fund at the V Foundation, please visit https://www.v.org/research/stuart-scott-memorial-cancer-research-fund.  

    Episode 35: A Conversation with Asha Miller

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2021 29:54


    As October winds down, we continue our emphasis on Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The V Foundation is committed to fund cutting-edge breast cancer research and to date has awarded more than $29 million in research grants for breast cancer. More research means more breakthroughs which means more survivors.Today, we speak with breast cancer survivor Asha Miller. Asha was in the best shape of her life and just 33-years-old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After numerous treatments and surgeries, she now advocates for more research that could help save more lives. We speak with Asha about the day she was diagnosed, her long journey through treatment and what she hopes the future holds for others facing this disease. To make a donation to life-saving cancer research, please visit v.org.  

    Episode 34: A Conversation with Evan Goldberg

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2021 26:22


    October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So, today we're talking breast cancer. Specifically, we're focusing on BRCA gene mutations with BRCA Foundation Founder & Chair of the V Foundation Board of Directors Evan Goldberg.  We speak to Evan about what motivated him to get involved in cancer research, what his first year as Board Chair has been like and what he sees for the future of the V Foundation.  To make a donation to live-saving cancer research, visit www.v.org. 

    Episode 33: A Conversation with WWE Superstar Kofi Kingston

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2021 27:30


    As we close out Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, we are so excited to chat with WWE Superstar Kofi Kingston about his plans to take down one tough opponent: pediatric cancer  Tune as he tells us why pediatric cancer research is so important to him, what it was like experiencing some of the best moments of his career with his kids, and his Fantasy Football league with fellow Superstar the Miz that will support Connor's Cure.To learn more about how the V Foundation supports pediatric cancer research or to make a donation, please visit v.org. 

    Episode 32: A Conversation with Michael Wiggins for Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2021 33:08


    September is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. Sadly, more 15,000 kids and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer each year in the U.S. In fact, cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in the U.S. of children over 1-year-old. That's one reason we are working so hard to fund more life-saving research through the Dick Vitale Fund for Pediatric Cancer Research which has funded nearly $55 million in grants to date. Today, we speak with Michael Wiggins. When his son Cannon was just 20-months-old, he was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma and given a 50% chance of survival. Thankfully, Cannon recently celebrated his 10th birthday. We'll talk to Michael about how he dealt with his son's diagnosis, the twists and turns of the cancer journey and what advice he would give to parents whose children are taking on cancer.This September, consider a donation to the Dick Vitale Fund for Pediatric Cancer Research by visiting https://www.v.org/research/specialfunds/pediatrics. 

    Episode 31: A Conversation with Nick Valvano

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2021 33:19


    Today, we speak with Nick Valvano. Nick served as CEO of the V Foundation from 1999-2012 and we chat with him about what it was like to grow up with Jim as a brother, the early days of the V Foundation and what he's most proud of from his time leading the organization. If you enjoy the pod, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen! If you'd like to learn more about the work the V Foundation is doing, visit v.org and consider a donation. 100% of direct donations benefit cancer research and related programs. 

    Episode 30: A Conversation About the 2021 Victory Ride

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2021 29:44


    The 2021 Victory Ride is right around the corner. Today, we hear from two ride participants, Matt Flippin and Angel Bond, as they speak about what motivates them to train and fundraise as well as what they're most looking forward to about the in-person ride on August 28. We also chat with Braswell Family Farms president Trey Braswell about why being part of this event means so much to their organization and family.To learn more about this year's Victory Ride or to register as a rider or volunteer, please visit thevictoryride.org. 

    Episode 29: A Conversation About The 2021 Wine Celebration

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2021 28:20


    Today we take a look into the history of the V Foundation's Wine Celebration. This annual weekend each August, brings people from the investment, technology, medical, sports, entertainment and wine communities together to raise money for cancer research. To date, the event has raised over $118 million for cancer research and related programs. On this episode we will be joined by the Wine Celebration's chairwoman of the board and co-founder, Julie Maples, as well as wine celebration board member Derek Reisinger. Both were instrumental architects in making the wine celebration what it is today. We'll chat about how the idea of the event first came to be, the challenges they faced along the way, and their favorite moments from wine celebration's past.

    Episode 28: A Conversation with Scott Van Pelt

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2021 28:29


    Today, on what would be his 56th birthday, we remember Stuart Scott with his longtime SportsCenter co-anchor and good friend Scott Van Pelt about that friendship, what he remembers most about Stuart's battle with cancer,  and what he thinks Stuart's legacy will be.Learn more about the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund at www.v.org. 

    Episode 27: A Conversation with Andrew Jones

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2021 26:35


    In 2018, Andrew Jones was competing in his sophomore basketball season at the University of Texas when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Listen to hear from Andrew on how he faced his diagnosis, his return to the court and how he's using this experience to help others.Learn more about the V Foundation or make a donation today at www.v.org. 

    Episode 26: A Conversation with Dr. Funmi Olopade

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2021 32:27


    Today, we speak with Dr. Funmi Olopade, a member of our Scientific Advisory Committee. Dr. Olopade grew up in Nigeria and earned her medical degree there before coming to the United States determined to make a difference. She is world-renowned for her research on familial forms of cancer as well as genetic and non-genetic factors contributing to tumor progression in diverse populations. She is also an expert in cancer risk assessment and individualized treatment for the most aggressive forms of breast cancer. We'll talk to Dr. Olopade about the path that led her to science, the advice that helped clear the road for her successful career and what the future holds for cancer research. To learn more about the V Foundation, Dr. Olopade or to donate to game-changing cancer research, please visit v.org.

    united states nigeria funmi v foundation scientific advisory committee
    Episode 25: A Conversation with Our Thrivers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2021 46:00


    June is National Cancer Survivor Month. There are nearly 17 million cancer survivors in the U.S. and with continued advancements through cancer research that number is expected to grow to 26 million by 2040. Today, we speak to 3 of those survivors - each with a story of how they made it through their own cancer journey and how they continue to advocate for research and those around them. First, we speak with Prem Aithal. Prem took on testicular cancer at the age of 28 before facing several serious secondary conditions from his treatment. Next, Dwan Thomas tells the story of battling an aggressive form of breast cancer while facing aftermath of a devastating hurricane. Finally, Marla Malone explains how a diagnosis of Hodgkin's Lymphoma became her motivation to help others facing cancer. To learn more about these and other Thrivers, please visit www.v.org/thrivers

    Episode 24: A Conversation with Julie Chase

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2021 23:30


    Today, we are joined by V Foundation Board Member and Chair of the V Foundation’s Virginia Vine event, Julie Chase! Tune in to hear about the effort that went into making the 2021 Virginia Vine a huge success, her passion for cancer research, and what it takes to be a leader in business. To learn more about the V Foundation or to donate, please visit www.v.org

    Episode 23: A Conversation with Eden Bridgeman

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2021 27:51


    Today, we speak with Eden Bridgeman of the Bridgeman Charitable Group. We discuss the Trifecta Gala and why she believes the V Foundation is the perfect charitable partner, the vision for her newest business ventures with Ebony & Jet magazines, and the importance of women of color being in positions of power. To learn more about the V Foundation or to donate, please visit v.org.

    Episode 22: A Conversation About Virginia Vine

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2021 50:38


    Each year in April, the V Foundation hosts Virginia Vine. The annual signature event highlights Virginia’s wine and their renowned cancer research centers while raising funds for the V Foundation’s mission. Today, we’ll start by speaking to Danielle Lavetan, the V Foundation’s Director of Signature Events, about what we can expect from the event and how you can join. Then, we’ll speak with special guest from both of our Mission Partners: Dr. Jose Trevino, the Surgeon-in-Chief of VCU Massey Cancer Center and Dr. Tom Loughran, Director of UVA Cancer Center. To learn more about Virginia Vine, please visit v.org/get-involved/signature-events/virginia-vine/

    Episode 21: A Conversation with Jay Bilas

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2021 26:45


    The madness of March is well under way and so today, we bring on ESPN Basketball Analyst and V Foundation Board Member Jay Bilas. One of the brightest and funniest names in sports, Jay is incredibly passionate about cancer research. We talk about why joining the V Foundation board was an easy call, ESPN’s top-to-bottom passion for supporting cancer research, his memory of NC State’s 1983 National Championship run and his pick for who will win it all in this year’s tournament. To learn more about the V Foundation or to donate, visit v.org. *Note: this was recorded prior to the start of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.

    Episode 20: A Conversation with Ralph Sampson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2021 25:15


    It’s March and college basketball is once again taking over the national landscape. As we fill out our brackets, we consider who could join the pantheon of Jim Valvano and the ’83 Wolfpack as legends of the NCAA Tournament. With that in mind, we speak with Ralph Sampson, without question one of the greatest college basketball players of all time as a three-time winner of the Naismith Player of the Year Award. Today, we talk to Ralph about his father’s battles with cancer, why he’s become an important part of the V Foundation’s Virginia Vine fundraiser and what he and his teammates really thought about taking on the Cardiac Pack in 1983. To learn more about the V Foundation or to donate, please visit www.v.org.

    Episode 19: A Conversation with Jim Ryan of Constellation Brands

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2021 19:00


    Today, we speak with Jim Ryan, SVP of Constellation Brands. Each year, Constellation Brands rallies a nationwide network of distributors to raise money in support of the V Foundation. The partnership began more than a decade ago and since then they have raised nearly $20 million. We talk about why a partnership with the V Foundation made sense for Constellation, the benefits of partnering with a nonprofit and he continues to motivate his staff with each passing year. Is your company looking for a way to give back? Learn more about the V Foundation at https://www.v.org/collaborators/becoming-a-partner/.

    Episode 18: A Conversation with Dereck Whittenburg

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2021 29:29


    Today, we’re joined by someone who may be more often associated with Jim Valvano than any other public figure: the star of the 1983 National Champion men’s basketball team from NC State, Dereck Whittenburg. Dereck has long been an integral member of the V Foundation team and today we’ll talk about the day he met Jim, the legacy of that 1983 team and why staying involved with the V Foundation has always been so important to him. To learn more about the V Foundation or to get involved or donate, please visit v.org.

    Episode 17: A Conversation with Dr. Bill Nelson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2021 31:59


    Today, we talk to Dr. Bill Nelson, the director of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, V Foundation board member and the chair of the V Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC). We chat with Dr. Nelson about his role with the SAC and how they determine which scientists fit the bill to receive a V Foundation grant. We’ll also talk about how his career led him to this point (including his dashed dreams of being a soccer star ⚽️) and where he sees cancer research headed in the future. Learn more about how our grants are awarded or how you can get involved with the V Foundation at www.v.org.

    Episode 16: A Conversation with Our Supporters

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2020 39:03


    2020 has changed a lot, but one thing it hasn't changed is the urgent need for continued cancer research. Today, we’re speaking with three V Foundation supporters about how their lives have been touched by cancer and why they've chosen to support the V Foundation. First, we’ll talk to Mark Holwerda about the passing of his father and the connection to both research and basketball that led him to support the V Foundation. Then, we’ll speak with Bonnie Amendola who’s long list of people she knew who had passed away from cancer filled nearly three pages. And finally, we find out why cancer survivor Ray Cox was motivated to use his story for good thanks to both Jim Valvano's and Stuart Scott’s memorable ESPY speeches. We are so grateful for all of our supporters and listeners who have joined us this year and we hope you all have a safe and restful holiday season. We look forward to continuing our Voices for Victory journey in 2021. Learn more about how you can get involved with the V Foundation at www.v.org.

    Episode 15: A Conversation with Sage Steele

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2020 32:52


    It’s V Week! Each year, our friends at ESPN shine a spotlight on the V Foundation and encourage their viewers to join them in donating to lifesaving cancer research. This year, there’s a focus on the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund. This fund, established by ESPN and the V Foundation, honors the memory of the unforgettable Stuart Scott. A champion of cancer research, Stu was especially driven to improve outcomes for African Americans and other minorities disproportionately affected by cancer and the fund continues with that mission. Today, we speak to Sage Steele about Stuart. She first met him like most of us, watching on TV. But, when they met at a conference he gave her some helpful advice - not knowing they would go on to be colleagues and great friends. ESPN’s Sage Steele has been a staple at the SportsCenter desk since she arrived in 2007 and joined the V Foundation’s Board of Directors last year. On this episode, we’ll talk about how she met Stuart and how they became such great friends, the legacy he left behind and Sage’s hero - her dad - who has also been diagnosed with cancer.

    A Conversation About BRCA Gene Mutations

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2020 29:28


    Today, we’re focusing on the BRCA gene and how mutations to it can be so impactful. As we continue to learn more about genetics and how that can effect our health, specifically in regards to cancer, BRCA is something you might be hearing more about. But what do we really know about it? We talk to Carole Wegner, PhD, HCLD, and the V Foundation’s SVP of Grants and Research Administration to clear up some misunderstandings about the BRCA gene and to fill us in on how the V Foundation is funding research related to it. Then, we talk with Jennifer Halsey who lost both her mom and aunt to cancer and tested positive for the BRCA gene mutation herself. She tells us about the decisions prompted by that positive test and all she’s gone through following it.

    A Conversation with James Roday Rodriguez

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2020 24:19


    Today our guest is actor and director James Roday Rodriguez. James, who plays Gary, a cancer survivor, on the hit ABC show A Million Little Things, has joined forces with WWE Superstar the Miz to take on a Fantasy Football Challenge this season to raise money for cancer research. We’ll chat about why playing a cancer survivor was an important and personal role for him and how it’s helped him connect with people who’ve gone through a cancer journey themselves. We also discuss his Fantasy Football Partnership with the Miz and why the V Foundation was their charity of choice in that endeavor. (Recorded October 12)

    A Conversation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2020 31:12


    October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and today in our conversations we shine a light on those facing the disease and highlight the need for more research. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the US among women and this year alone there will be 275,000 new cases and 42,000 deaths. In fact, 13% of all women in the US will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Today, we speak to Jen Eaton and Kati Masters, two women both taking on breast cancer. Both had their lives turned upside down when they heard the words “you have breast cancer.”

    A Conversation with the Miz

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2020 32:32


    Today, we speak with WWE Superstar the Miz. Through Connor's Cure, WWE raises money and awareness to support pediatric cancer research that is funded through the V Foundation's grant-making process. The Miz has been a WWE Superstar for over a decade and is a former WWE champion. We chat about why Connor's Cure is such an important initiative to WWE, how he has joined forces with a well known actor to support it and his unbelievable path to becoming a WWE and television star.

    Claim Voices for Victory

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel