CareCast: The CLL Society Podcast

In this episode of the CLL Society Carecast, we're joined by Ed McNichol — whose career as a deep-sea imaging specialist often takes him out to sea for extended periods. Ed shares his story of navigating life's unpredictable tides — balancing the demanding realities of his profession with the challenges of a CLL diagnosis. While frequently away from home, Ed found stability and empowerment through shared decision-making with his healthcare team and by connecting with CLL Society's support groups, which he fondly describes as a "knowledge sharing community." His journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and the power of staying informed and connected, even when life takes you far from familiar shores. Tune in to hear how Ed continues to chart his course with purpose, community, and hope.

In this episode, we're joined by Henry Olvera, a former firefighter whose life took an unexpected turn after being diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Throughout his career, he relied on information to save lives, and that same mindset became essential when facing his own diagnosis. Determined not to let CLL define him, he quickly learned the importance of self-advocacy. He shares how he confronted systemic barriers, researched his options, and pushed to receive the right tests and care. For him, information wasn't just power—it was survival. Listeners will hear how his firefighting instincts inspired a holistic approach to navigating the physical, emotional, and systemic challenges of living with CLL. His story is one of resilience, empowerment, and courage, offering a reminder that with knowledge and persistence, patients can shape their own path forward.

In this inspiring episode of CareCast, lifelong athlete Ashley Montulli joins CLL Society's Development Director—and fellow CLL patient—Ron Katz for a powerful conversation on navigating life with CLL while balancing motherhood, fitness, and wellness. Ashley shares how staying active and making smart adjustments to her routine have helped her cope with lifestyle changes brought on by her diagnosis. Together, they dive into the importance of having the right information and advocating for yourself as a patient—because Smart Patients Get Smart Care. Don't miss this motivating look at strength, resilience, and self-empowerment.

In this discussion with CLL patient Peter Titlebaum, we explore the connection between lifestyle choices and non-medical approaches to managing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), with a particular focus on their impact on mental health. Peter is a lifelong athlete, college professor at the University of Dayton, an active member of a CLL Society Support Group, and has been living with CLL since 2018. Peter reflects on his personal experience, highlighting how physical activity has positively influenced his mental health. He also shares how cultivating the right mindset and building a sense of community have been integral to his emotional well-being throughout his journey with CLL.

It is estimated that between 75% and 95% of people diagnosed with CLL do not immediately start treatment. Instead, they follow the standard of care approach known as Active Observation, also called Watch and Wait, Watch and Worry, or Active Surveillance. When receiving a diagnosis of cancer, it can be confusing and a source of anxiety to hear that you will not be given treatment right away. This is where the emotional rollercoaster with CLL begins for many patients. In this episode, Dr. Brian Koffman is joined by guest Rick Conner, who has been on Active Observation since receiving his CLL diagnosis in 2015. Rick discusses the emotions that arose from Watch and Wait and shares advice for fellow patients on how to make the most of this time. He also highlights various resources from CLL Society that have been helpful on his journey.

Entering treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can be an emotional time. In this clip, Dr. Brian Koffman shares the importance of having an optimistic mindset while also setting realistic expectations. The full episode is coming on September 17.