The Flourish After Cancer Podcast

Dec 10

You’ve maybe seen it hanging in doorways every December but mistletoe isn’t just a holiday decoration. Across Europe, mistletoe extract has been used for decades in integrative cancer care, and now, more survivors in North America are starting to ask: Can it really help with blocking and healing after cancer? In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr. Megan Bernard, ND, breaks down what the science actually says about mistletoe (Viscum album) and its role in supporting cancer recovery. You’ll learn where it’s used, what the research shows, and how survivors can make informed, balanced decisions about whether it’s right for them. 🔗 Episode Relevant Resources: The Blood Work Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: You’ve heard about mistletoe therapy and want to know if it actually works You’re looking for evidence-based ways to improve quality of life after cancer You’re curious about how integrative therapies fit with conventional treatment You want clarity—not hype—on natural approaches to cancer care 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: What mistletoe extract (Viscum album) is and how it’s used in oncology clinics in Europe The research behind mistletoe’s effects on immunity, inflammation, and quality of life What clinical trials say about symptom relief, fatigue, and potential survival benefits Why mistletoe is not approved as a cancer treatment in North America (and what that means) How survivors can discuss mistletoe safely with their oncologist or integrative practitioner The balanced truth — where mistletoe fits in, and where it doesn’t 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: A clear, science-based understanding of mistletoe therapy Confidence in how to evaluate integrative options post-treatment Realistic expectations — and the knowledge to make empowered, informed choices Practical guidance for combining natural and conventional support I’m Dr. Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again. ✨ Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps Follow me: Instagram: @MeganBernardND Facebook: @MeganBernardND Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/ Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

Dec 3

In most places in the world, alcohol is a part of almost every celebration — from family dinners and holidays, to girls’ nights and “just one glass to relax” at the end of the day. But after cancer, that simple glass of wine can raise complicated questions: 👉 “Is this safe for me?” 👉 “Will drinking increase my risk of recurrence?” 👉 “How do I say no at parties? It’s so awkward.” In this week’s episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan Bernard, ND is joined by Kate Bee, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Practitioner and creator of The Sober School, and they break down the research behind alcohol and cancer risk — and how to make informed, empowered decisions that align with your health and your life. ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: You’re wondering what the science actually says about alcohol and cancer risk You’ve heard mixed messages about “safe” drinking levels You want to enjoy social events without anxiety or guilt 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: How alcohol acts as a carcinogen and impacts weight gain, liver function, and estrogen levels How alcohol influences hormone balance, gut health, and detoxification Why moderation looks different after cancer — and what realistic limits look like Simple, practical swaps for holiday celebrations that still feel joyful and satisfying 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: A research-backed understanding of alcohol’s impact on your health Confidence to make your own informed, balanced choices Real-world strategies to enjoy the holidays without undoing your progress Freedom from guilt and confusion — because this is about living well I’m Dr Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again. 👉 Follow Kate Bee of The Sober School: Instagram: @TheSoberSchool Website: http://www.thesoberschool.com 🔗 Episode Relevant Resources: The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation The Blood Work Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity The Flourish Blog, "Does Alcohol Increase Cancer Recurrence Risk?": https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/does-alcohol-increase-cancer-recurrence-risk ✨ Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps Follow me: Instagram: @MeganBernardND Facebook: @MeganBernardND Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/ Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care. 📚 References Bagnardi V, et al. Alcohol consumption and site-specific cancer risk: A comprehensive dose–response meta-analysis. British Journal of Cancer. 2015;112(3):580–593. Seitz HK, et al. Alcohol metabolism and cancer risk. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews. 2017;38(2):121–129. World Health Organization. No Level of Alcohol Consumption Is Safe for Our Health. WHO Regional Office for Europe. 2023. LoConte NK, et al. Alcohol and Cancer: A Statement of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2018;36(1):83–93.

Nov 26

Most people think of cancer as just a cluster of disorganized and unpredictable cells—but the real story on how cancer cells behave lies in the neighborhood they live in. In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr. Megan Bernard, ND, unpacks one of the most fascinating (and empowering) areas of cancer research: the tumor microenvironment — the community of immune cells, connective tissue, blood vessels, and signals that can either help or hinder cancer’s growth. You’ll learn how this environment becomes either pro-cancer or anti-cancer, and how lifestyle, nutrition, and medical therapies can help “renovate” it back to health (and you don’t need a science degree to understand it!). ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: You’ve finished cancer treatment and want to understand what’s happening inside your body You’ve heard about inflammation or “terrain” but want the science behind it You’re curious how stress, oxygen levels, and immune function shape your recovery You want to learn how food, movement, and mindset literally change your internal environment 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: What the tumor microenvironment actually is — and why it’s more important than the tumor itself The cellular players that can either fight or protect cancer (like macrophages, fibroblasts, and immune cells) The non-cellular factors — like the extracellular matrix, exosomes, oxygen, and acidity — that control how cancer spreads Why the “acidic” environment inside tumors isn’t fixed by alkaline diets (and what really helps) The science of “stemness” — how some cells resist treatment and what can help target them How both medicine and lifestyle can help shift your internal neighborhood from cancer-promoting to cancer-blocking 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: A clear, relatable understanding of the tumor microenvironment Hope — because what’s happening inside your body can be changed Science-backed next steps you can use today 🔗 Episode Relevant Resources: The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation The Blood Work Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity ✨ Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps Follow me: Instagram: @MeganBernardND Facebook: @MeganBernardND Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/ Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

Nov 19

You’ve heard that certain foods can help lower your risk of cancer coming back — but why and what ones are the best ? Most supplements actually start from plants — sulforaphane from broccoli, polyphenols from berries, catechins from green tea — but when we isolate them into capsules, we lose the teamwork that makes food so powerful. In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan Bernard, ND, shares how phytonutrients — the natural compounds plants create to protect themselves also protect you . She explains why whole-food synergy often outperforms isolated nutrients and highlights four foods proven to help reduce cancer and recurrence risk. ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’ve been told to “eat healthy” but aren’t sure what that means after cancer • You rely on supplements and wonder if they’re enough • You want to lower inflammation and balance hormones naturally • You’re curious what the best diet is to block cancer 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • What phytonutrients are and how they block cancer-promoting pathways • How whole foods can create stronger protection than single supplements • The four powerhouse food groups every survivor should eat regularly • How fiber supports detoxification, hormones, and gut health • When supplements do make sense — and how to use them wisely 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: A science-based understanding of why real food is your best daily defense Confidence to simplify your plate — and still make it powerfully anti-cancer Easy ways to turn everyday meals into tools for recovery and prevention 🔗 Episode Relevant Resources Free Masterclass — The 3 Keys to Effective Anti-Cancer Nutrition : https://FlourishAfterCancer.com/nutritionmasterclass Free Blood Work Clarity Guide: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity ✨ Let’s Connect Instagram: @MeganBernardND Facebook: @MeganBernardND Website: https://FlourishAfterCancer.com Book a Free Roadmap Call: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps 📚 References available on my website Medical Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle.

Nov 12

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20. Learn more here: The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom What if you could shorten healing time, reduce complications, and step into surgery feeling more confident and in control? Too often, women go into surgery with little guidance beyond the hospital packet — and then face long recoveries, unexpected side effects, and extra stress they never saw coming. In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Rebecca Knackstedt, MD, PhD — a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, certified functional medicine physician, and co-founder of Clara Recovery — to talk about how preparation can transform surgical outcomes. ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’re facing surgery after cancer and want to feel empowered, not fearful • You’re curious about “prehabilitation” and what it means for recovery • You want to know how stress, sleep, scars, and even supplements impact healing • You’ve ever wondered why no one talks about this and where to actually get answers 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • The most common side effects women face after surgery and how to ease them • Why preparing ahead can reduce drains, pain, neuropathy, and recovery costs • What the research says about nutrition, scar healing, and surgical outcomes • The one thing you can do right now to improve your surgical experience 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: • A science-backed understanding of how to prepare your body for surgery • Practical, real-life tools to make recovery smoother and less overwhelming • Clarity around supplements, stress management, and what to expect when you get home • The confidence that your healing doesn’t have to be left to chance — you can influence the outcome I’m Dr Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with thousands of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again. ✨ EPISODE RELEVANT RESOURCES: • The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom • Supporting Sexual Health Handout + Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerrecipes 👉 Follow Dr Rebecca Knackstedt, MD, PhD: • Instagram: @surgical_recovery • Website: https://www.clararecovery.com/about ✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES: • The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE • The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: HERE Follow me: • Instagram: @MeganBernardND • Facebook: @MeganBernardND Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

Nov 5

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20. Learn more here: The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom You beat breast cancer — but then you’re handed another decision that can feel just as heavy: Should I take hormone-blocking therapy? Or, you’re currently taking hormone blocking therapy and you’re wondering if you’ve made the right choice or thinking about the long term risks and side effects. Tamoxifen. Letrozole. Anastrozole. Exemestane. These medications are designed to stop estrogen from fueling new cancer growth — but for many women, they also bring side effects that affect sleep, mood, intimacy, and quality of life. Not to mention your risk of heart attack, stroke, bone fractures, and dementia. In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan Bernard, ND, breaks down how these therapies work, the real numbers behind their benefits, and the questions every survivor should ask before deciding whether to stay on (or start) them. ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: You’ve been prescribed Tamoxifen, Letrozole, Anastrozole, or Exemestane You’re wondering how much these drugs actually reduce recurrence risk You’re struggling with side effects like hot flashes, joint pain, or brain fog You’re curious about whether natural options can replace or complement hormone therapy You want a clear, balanced view—without fear-mongering or medical gaslighting 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: How hormone-blocking therapies work — and how they differ between pre- and post-menopause The trade-offs of estrogen suppression: why it protects against cancer but can harm bones, heart, and brain health What your Oncotype DX or MammaPrint results really mean and how to interpret relative vs. absolute risk The role of genetics and epigenetics — including the CYP2D6 gene that determines how well your body activates Tamoxifen and APOE4 that can show a raised risk of developing dementia (estrogen = brain health). Natural strategies that may help ease side effects like hot flashes, weight gain, and low mood How to evaluate your personal risk of heart disease, fractures, and dementia so you can make an informed, individualized choice 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: A science-backed understanding of both the benefits and trade-offs of hormone-blocking therapy Tools to discuss with your oncologist or integrative provider before making your decision Confidence that whether you choose medication, natural support, or both—you can still take powerful steps to reduce recurrence risk and feel well EPISODE RELEVANT RESOURCES: The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom S01 | E18 Don’t Let Weak Bones Haunt You: Building Bone Health After Menopause & Cancer Treatment S01 | E17 Sexual Health And Hormone Therapy After Cancer ✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES: The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book & Sexual Health Handout HERE Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: Learn More Follow me: Instagram: @MeganBernardND Facebook: @MeganBernardND Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/ Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

Oct 29

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20, 2025. Learn more here > The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom It’s that time of year (Halloween) when skeletons decorate every front yard and bone-shaped candies fill the stores. But for many women after cancer, bone health is no joke. If menopause came early because of treatment, or you’re taking hormone-blocking therapy, your bones may be losing strength faster than you realize. Yet most advice women get stops at “take vitamin D” and that’s just the beginning of what your bones really need to stay strong, prevent fractures, and protect against recurrence risk. In this Halloween-inspired episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan pulls back the curtain on what truly supports bone health after cancer — and how you can rebuild strength, resilience, and confidence in your body again. ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’ve had early menopause or are on hormone-blocking therapy • You’ve ever been told you have “osteopenia” or “osteoporosis” or want to prevent ever hearing that • You’re confused about whether you should be taking calcium • You want to know which nutrients (and habits!) really matter most 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why bone loss accelerates after cancer treatment — and what you can do to stop it • The spooky truth about calcium supplements (and how too much can backfire) • The full “bone-building team” beyond calcium: vitamin D, magnesium, K2, and protein • How strong bones can actually help protect against cancer metastasis • Conventional medication options worth discussing with your doctor • Real-life strategies for nourishing bones naturally and reducing fracture risk 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: • A clear, research-backed plan to strengthen your bones for the long term • Confidence in how to balance supplements safely and effectively • Practical steps to protect your bones for decades to come • The motivation to see bone health not as a chore, but as a form of empowerment after cancer ✨ Your bones are living, resilient tissue — and just like you, they can rebuild. Don’t let weak bones haunt you this season. Protect your strength, your posture, and your future. I’m Dr Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with thousands of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again. ✨ EPISODE RELEVANT RESOURCES: • The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom ✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES: • The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE • The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE • Supporting Sexual Health Handout + Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerrecipes Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: HERE Follow me: • Instagram: @MeganBernardND • Facebook: @MeganBernardND Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

Oct 22

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20, 2025. Learn more here > The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom You finish treatment. You’re ready to get back to “normal life,” but no one warned you that intimacy and sexual health might feel like an uphill battle. Painful intercourse, dryness, lack of desire, mood changes, and even body image shifts after surgery — they all add up to feeling like your body doesn’t fully belong to you anymore. And yet, this part of healing is rarely talked about. In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast , I sit down with Dr. Ashley Chauvin, ND, to tackle the sexual health impacts of cancer treatment head-on — and, more importantly, what you can do about them. ⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’re navigating menopause after cancer (natural or medically induced) • You’ve struggled with painful sex, vaginal dryness, or low libido after treatment • You feel hesitant or fearful about using vaginal estrogen or hormone therapies • You want to feel more confident and connected in your body again 💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why so many women enter menopause during cancer treatment — and how that affects long-term health • The ripple effects on heart, bone, and brain health (and why sexual health deserves equal focus) • Why painful intercourse, vaginal dryness, and low libido are so common — and evidence-based ways to address them • The role of vaginal moisturizers, vaginal estrogen, and testosterone — what’s safe, what’s not, and when to start • How to make treatment practical (different forms, less mess, better comfort) • What the current research says about vaginal estrogen in breast, cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers 💡 You’ll leave this episode with: • A science-backed understanding of sexual health options after cancer • Clarity on what’s safe for your diagnosis and subtype • Practical tools to reduce pain, dryness, and discomfort • Permission to reclaim intimacy as part of your healing — without guilt or fear I’m Dr Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with thousands of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again. ✨ EPISODE RELEVANT RESOURCES: • The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom • Supporting Sexual Health Handout + Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerrecipes 👉 Follow Dr Ashley Chauvin, ND: • Instagram: @ashleychauvin_nd • Website: https://drashleychauvin.com/ ✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES: • The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE • The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: HERE Follow me: • Instagram: @MeganBernardND • Facebook: @MeganBernardND Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.