Marrow Masters Podcast By The National Bone Marrow Transplant Link cover art

Marrow Masters

Marrow Masters

By: The National Bone Marrow Transplant Link
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This podcast series educates patients, caregivers, and health care professionals regarding important topics as they relate to bone marrow/stem cell transplant and CAR-T Cellular Therapy. Season 19 focuses on thriving despite Chronic Graft vs Host Disease, or cGVHD. Season 18 focuses on the incredible know how needed for caregivers, who make transplantation possible. Season 17 covers AYAs and the unique ways they navigate transplantation and survivorship. Season 16 focuses on GVHD and best tips from health care professionals. Season 15 covers CAR T-Cellular Therapy while Season 14 focuses on the parts of GVHD we don’t often talk about. Season 13, takes a deep dive into many of the side effects survivors and caregivers handle post-transplant. Season 12 answers the critical question of "I'm Home, Now What?" Season 11 covers survivors who are thriving. Season 10 covers Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) focusing on hope and inspiration. Season 9 covers incredible tips before, during and after transplant--things folks wish they had known. Season 8 covers All Things Related to Clinical Trials. Seasons 7 and 6 focus on important topics related to Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD). In earlier seasons, we covered all things survivorship (Season 5), the caregiver perspective (Season 4), the patient perspective (Season 3), busting marrow myths (Season 2), and chronic GVHD (Season 1). With more than 37,000 downloads today, we are so thrilled to offer these podcasts.2019-2026 nbmtLINK Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease
Episodes
  • Peggy Guesting on Transplant Radio Podcast

    Peggy Guesting on Transplant Radio Podcast
    Mar 5 2026
    Recently, Peggy attended the Tandem 2026 meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. While there, she sat down as a guest on the Eurofins Viracor Transplant Radio podcast. We wanted to share that interview with you. If you'd like to follow their podcast, you can do so at the links below. We learn today from Peggy Burkhard that transplant is not just a medical experience — it’s an emotional, creative, and community‑driven journey that patients, caregivers, and families navigate together. Peggy shares how the National Bone Marrow Transplant Link has evolved since its founding in 1992, offering a wide range of free programs that support patients from diagnosis through survivorship. She highlights the often‑overlooked emotional load carried by caregivers and explains how "the Link" (nbmtLINK), builds connection through healing arts sessions, book clubs, lunch‑and‑learn programs, and survivorship education. We hear about their thriving “Marrow Masters” podcast with 160+ episodes and 40,000 downloads, as well as their expanding resources such as Spanish‑language materials, financial guidance books, and partnerships with groups like the GVHD Alliance and Blood Cancer United. Peggy also gives an inside look at GVHD Awareness Day and the organization’s growing social media footprint, which helps elevate patient voices and practical wisdom to the global transplant community. Hosted by Kevin Foth of Eurofins Viracor. Episode Links:Peggy Burkhard | LinkedInThe LINK (nbmtLINK)Meredith A. Cowden FoundationGVHD AllianceMarrow Masters Podcast by nbmtLINK Be a Guest on our Show! We’re always looking to speak with the transplant community. To be considered, please email ---> Amplify your influence! 📧 US42-DL-MarketingTeam@Viracor.EurofinsUS.com Social Media:LinkedIn | X-Twitter | Facebook | Threads | YouTube | Bluesky The discussions in this podcast are meant to inform and spark conversation, not to provide medical advice. For guidance on personal health questions, diagnoses, or treatment decisions, always speak directly with a licensed healthcare professional. For more information visit: Eurofins-Viracor.com or call (800)305-5198 Copyright © 2026 Eurofins Viracor, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 🎧 Home of Transplant Radio™ National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/nbmtLINK Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKFollow the nbmtLINK on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/nbmtlink/The nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.To participate in the GVHD Mosaic, click here: https://amp.livemosaics.com/gvhdThis content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to consult directly with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical conditions, treatment options, or other health concerns.The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the nbmtLINK. Unless otherwise stated in an official policy, the nbmtLINK does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned by the speakers. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.The Marrow Masters Podcast is produced by JAG Podcast Productions: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    18 mins
  • Chronic GVHD: New Hope, New Treatments with Dr. Joesph Pidala

    Chronic GVHD: New Hope, New Treatments with Dr. Joesph Pidala
    Dec 18 2025
    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Joseph Pidala from the Moffitt Cancer Center to discuss chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a complex condition affecting many stem cell transplant survivors. We focus on the latest prevention strategies, treatment innovations, and the critical role that clinical trials continue to play in advancing care.We begin with promising news around prevention. Dr. Pidala shares data from the BMT CTN 1703 trial, which compared conventional GVHD prevention to a newer approach using post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy). This newer strategy significantly reduced the incidence of both acute and chronic GVHD, signaling a major step forward in preventing this debilitating condition.Despite advancements, many patients still experience chronic GVHD, which drives the need for new treatments. We explore several groundbreaking clinical trials that are rethinking traditional steroid-heavy treatment protocols. One study is testing Rezurock (Belumosudil) as a preemptive treatment during early symptoms, while another is investigating whether Jakafi (Ruxolitinib) can be used as a first-line treatment to reduce steroid reliance. These trials challenge old norms and aim to improve long-term outcomes.We also take a look at the four FDA-approved therapies currently available for steroid-refractory chronic GVHD: Ibrutinib, Jakafi, Rezurock, and the most recent addition, Axatilimab (Niktimvo). These drugs, each with different mechanisms and side effects, give patients and clinicians more flexibility than ever before. We touch on other widely used therapies like ECP (photopheresis), which, while not FDA-approved, remain an important part of care.Patient involvement is a key theme throughout. Dr. Pidala emphasizes that progress would be impossible without those who enroll in clinical trials, sharing inspiring examples of patients who benefited from early access to now-approved drugs. He encourages patients to advocate for themselves and speak up about symptoms, improvements, or quality of life changes. Patient-reported outcomes are becoming standard in trials, offering critical insight into treatment success from the patient's perspective.Dr. Pidala also highlights the importance of addressing GVHD holistically. Beyond core treatments, supportive care—including help with dry eyes, itching, joint mobility, pain, and mental health—is crucial to improving day-to-day life. He stresses that long-term recovery is possible and shares a moving story of a young woman with severe GVHD who, through persistent treatment, regained functionality and returned to a fulfilling life.We close with advice for patients: be proactive, informed, and open to trial participation. And when seeking information on trials, always start by asking your clinical team—they’ll know what’s available and suitable for your specific situation. Above all, Dr. Pidala leaves us with a message of hope—there’s real progress being made, and the future looks brighter than ever.Thanks to our Season 19 sponsors, Incyte and Sanofi.https://incyte.com/https://www.sanofi.com/en00:40 – Introduction to Dr. Joseph Pidala01:21 – New GVHD Prevention Approaches02:44 – Why Clinical Trials Matter03:22 – Challenging Steroid-Based Treatment Norms06:14 – Timeline for New Treatment Results07:02 – FDA-Approved Drugs for Chronic GVHD09:09 – Individualized Treatment Approaches10:69 – The Role of Patient-Reported Outcomes13:44 – Symptom Management and Supportive Care15:20 – Addressing Mental Health in GVHD17:30 – Inspirational Patient Story21:12 – Advice for GVHD Patients23:02 – How to Find Clinical Trials25:06 – Final Thoughts and Message of Hope National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/nbmtLINK Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKFollow the nbmtLINK on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/nbmtlink/The nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.To participate in the GVHD Mosaic, click here: https://amp.livemosaics.com/gvhdThis content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to consult directly with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical conditions, treatment options, or other health concerns.The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the nbmtLINK. Unless otherwise stated in an official policy, the nbmtLINK does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned by the speakers. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.The Marrow Masters Podcast is produced by JAG Podcast Productions: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    26 mins
  • Fighting for the Little Things: Rebecca’s GVHD Journey

    Fighting for the Little Things: Rebecca’s GVHD Journey
    Dec 18 2025
    In this episode, we speak with Rebecca Heimsoth, a young mother and survivor of myelodysplastic syndrome who underwent a bone marrow transplant in April 2022. Diagnosed shortly after turning 33, Rebecca shares her deeply personal journey of navigating transplant recovery, chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), and parenting two small children. Her story is one of resilience, support, and a constant fight to reclaim her life after cancer.We begin by learning how Rebecca’s transplant process unfolded with the support of her family. Her mother stepped in as her full-time caregiver while she temporarily relocated over an hour away from home for five months, separated from her children. Her youngest sister was a full match donor, which initially reduced concern for GVHD—until lung GVHD symptoms appeared five months post-transplant. This diagnosis triggered new fears, especially around survival, and marked the beginning of her chronic GVHD journey, which later expanded to include fascia involvement. Rebecca explains the physical and emotional toll—early menopause, chronic fatigue, cognitive effects, and mobility challenges.We discuss how she manages flare-ups with physical therapy, walking, stretching, and even cupping. Despite the physical setbacks, Rebecca remains actively involved with her family, thanks to a flexible job, long-term disability support, and a strong support system. Her husband takes on parenting duties when her health dips, and her kids have learned small routines to help protect her from illness, such as wearing masks and showering after school. These steps, while difficult, have helped them all cope as a unit.Rebecca also opens up about the mental health side of survivorship—dealing with PTSD, depression, and a sense of loss over her former self. She credits her psychologist, psychiatrist, and peer support groups as vital tools for managing the psychological weight. Online and in-person GVHD groups have connected her to other young adults navigating similar terrain, helping her feel less alone.Despite not returning to her full-time career, Rebecca is finding meaning in her part-time work and family life. Her goals have shifted—from professional advancement to simply watching her kids grow up. Whether it's family vacations or bedtime snuggles, she cherishes these moments. Her ultimate aim is to be present for her daughter’s high school graduation in 2037. Every step forward, no matter how small, is part of the victory.Want to connect with a Young Adult Survivor Group? Find Kim on Instagram at @YourCancerBestie - http://instagram.com/yourcancerbestieThanks to our Season 19 sponsors, Incyte and Sanofi.https://incyte.com/https://www.sanofi.com/en00:40 – Introduction to Rebecca Heimsoth01:00 – Diagnosis at Age 33 and Initial Symptoms02:07 – Preparing for Transplant and Family Separation04:20 – Emotional Toll and Health Concerns06:20 – Importance of Physical Therapy and Walking06:53 – Balancing Flare-Ups, Appointments, and Parenthood08:20 – Role of Caregivers: Mom and Husband’s Support09:43 – Kids’ Resilience and Coping with Germ Concerns11:13 – Creative Ways to Explain Cancer to Children13:57 – Impact on Friendships and Social Life16:25 – Finding Online Support Networks and Groups17:43 – Meeting a Fellow Survivor in Person21:35 – Advice for Managing GVHD Symptoms23:16 – Navigating Nutrition with a Busy Family24:40 – Cognitive Health and Chemo Brain Hacks27:52 – Life After Transplant: Gratitude, Travel, and Parenting30:56 – Career Impact and Redefining Success32:23 – Living for the Milestones and Creating New Goals32:51 – Final Reflections and Words of Thanks National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/nbmtLINK Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKFollow the nbmtLINK on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/nbmtlink/The nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.To participate in the GVHD Mosaic, click here: https://amp.livemosaics.com/gvhdThis content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to consult directly with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical conditions, treatment options, or other health concerns.The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the nbmtLINK. Unless otherwise stated in an official policy, the nbmtLINK does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned by the speakers. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.The Marrow Masters Podcast is produced by JAG Podcast Productions: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    34 mins
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