In this powerful and uplifting episode of the PC-PEP Podcast, we sit down with Nick Aiken, a board member of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand (PCFNZ) and a passionate advocate for men’s health from Napier, Aotearoa New Zealand.

Nick shares his journey through a prostate cancer diagnosis in his early fifties, just months after leaving a secure career to start his own practice. Facing emotional shock, uncertainty, and the realities of hormone therapy (ADT), Nick discovered not only what it means to advocate for your own care—but how community, information, and daily connection can transform survivorship.

We first met Nick at the 2024 PCFNZ Conference in Christchurch, thanks to the visionary leadership of CEO Peter Dickens and the growing collaboration between PCFNZ and PC-PEP. That meeting sparked an enduring connection—and this conversation is a testament to what’s possible when men around the world stand up for each other’s healing.

Nick reflects on:

1. The gaps in early detection in New Zealand—and what needs to change.
2. How the PC-PEP program offered the emotional support, structure, and information the medical system couldn’t.
🗣️ “You can’t let your diagnosis determine the rest of your life.”
🛠️ “I had to learn to be my own agent… not just sit back and let it happen.”
3. Why intimacy, adaptability, and agency are core to living well post-diagnosis.
4. The importance of normalizing conversations around prostate cancer—especially the tough stuff.

With humour, honesty, and insight, Nick reminds us that healing isn’t just about surviving—it’s about reclaiming life, one choice at a time. His voice is one of clarity, warmth, and deep compassion—and his insights will resonate with anyone navigating cancer, advocacy, or transformation.

🎧 Listen to the episode on Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_9pxlAHzY_4

🌐 Learn more about PC-PEP: https://www.pcpep.org/ or pcpep.org/nz

For all forms of cancer go to CancerPEP.com (available in New Zealand though the Southern Cancer Society of New Zealand).

Together, we are not just facing prostate cancer—we are transforming how we live beyond it.

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast! 🎙️ Episode 7.

I’m so glad you’ve joined us for this powerful episode on healing, connection, and what it means to truly evolve through a cancer journey. I’m your host, Dr. Gabriela Ilie, a scientist devoted to developing evidence-based, whole-person care programs for cancer survivorship. In future episodes, I’ll be joined by my co-host, Dr. Rob Rutledge, a radiation oncologist and co-founder of PC-PEP. Together, we’ve built a program grounded in science, compassion, and the lived experience of thousands of men who’ve walked this path.

In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with Kimble Meagher—a retired engineer, marathon runner, and prostate cancer survivor from rural Nova Scotia—who shares the deeply personal story of his diagnosis, robotic surgery, recurrence, and treatment. But Kimble’s story is about more than medical events. It’s a journey of transformation.

From early fear and emotional isolation to rediscovering joy, intimacy, and purpose, Kimble opens up about the profound shifts that occurred through his participation in PC-PEP:
✔️ Morning rituals with his wife Darlene
✔️ Peer-to-peer support calls and mentorship
✔️ A renewed connection to food, friendship, and faith
✔️ And perhaps most powerfully—the moment Darlene looked at him and said:
“Kimble, you’ve evolved.”

This episode is for anyone looking for hope, reflection, and the quiet power of showing up—for yourself and for others.

🎧 Listen to the episode on Buzzsprout:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sJIulvdYRvY

🌐 Learn more about PC-PEP: https://www.pcpep.org/

Together, we are not just facing prostate cancer—we are transforming how we live beyond it.

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to Episode 6 of the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast.

In this powerful episode, I speak with David Ashcroft, a gay man living on an island near Chester, Nova Scotia, who shares his deeply personal journey through prostate cancer — from shock and isolation to connection, knowledge, and empowerment.

When David was diagnosed, he was living in a remote area with no access to support and little information about what lay ahead. Facing fear, depression, and uncertainty, it was a chance encounter with a PC-PEP poster that changed everything.

David takes us through:

• The emotional toll of diagnosis and waiting for surgery
• The mental health challenges and stigma men — especially gay men — face when navigating cancer care
• The transformative power of finding PC-PEP and helping establish a safe, open, and affirming space for gay menin the program
• The importance of knowledge, community, and patient leadership in survivorship

This episode is a call to action to ensure that all men — regardless of sexual orientation, geography, or background — have access to programs that see them, support them, and empower them.

🔹 Listen to the episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/
🔹 Watch the video version: https://youtu.be/mHrAvbgsx4E
🔹 Learn more: www.pcpep.org
🔹 Learn more (for all other forms of cancer): www.cancerpep.com

Please listen, share, and help us spread the word: No one should face prostate cancer alone.

Together, we are not just facing prostate cancer — we’re transforming how we live beyond it.

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast! 🎙️ Episode 5.

In this episode, we hear from Matthew, a PC-PEP participant whose story reminds us that life can shift in an instant.
Matthew describes himself as “just bumbling along” — living a quiet life, trying to stay healthy in his 50s — when a routine check-up led to a series of blood tests, and ultimately, a life-changing prostate cancer diagnosis.

In this honest and reflective conversation, Matthew opens up about:

What it felt like to receive a diagnosis out of the blue
His experiences navigating care as a gay man in a system that often overlooks LGBTQ+ needs
The emotional impact of confronting mortality
And the ways that PC-PEP helped him regain a sense of control, hope, and community
This episode highlights the importance of early detection, inclusive healthcare, and the role of daily, science-informed actions in supporting healing. Matthew’s voice brings attention to experiences that are often invisible — and reminds us that empowerment means being seen, supported, and equipped with tools for recovery.

Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, Matthew’s story offers valuable insight into the human side of cancer care — where identity, self-advocacy, and evidence-based support intersect.

To learn more, visit pcpep.org, or explore CancerPEP.com for programs available to all cancer survivors.

🎧 Listen to the audio version: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/
🎥 Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J6hrtK-YNsg
📌 Available on Buzzsprout and most major podcast platforms, including Apple, Google, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Podcast Index, Player FM, and Spotify.

Let’s dive into Matthew’s powerful story — one of identity, courage, and reclaiming life on your own terms.

EMPOWER YOURSELF.

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast! 🎙️ Episode 4.

I’m so glad you’ve joined us for this important conversation about early detection, resilience, and reclaiming life after a prostate cancer diagnosis. I’m your host, Dr. Gabriela Ilie, a Scientist committed to developing evidence-based programs that empower cancer patients to take control of their health and well-being. In future episodes, I’ll be joined by my co-host, Dr. Rob Rutledge, a prostate cancer oncologist from Nova Scotia and co-founder of PC-PEP. Together, we’ve built programs rooted in patient experience and designed to offer practical, daily tools for thriving after a diagnosis.

Today’s guest is Kyle, a graduate of our PC-PEP program. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in his late 40s — much earlier than most expect — Kyle’s story is a powerful reminder of why early screening matters, especially for those with a family history of prostate cancer.
Kyle shares his journey from living a healthy, active life to facing the emotional and physical realities of diagnosis, active surveillance, surgery, and radiation treatment. He speaks openly about the challenges of navigating major decisions, the importance of community support, and the critical steps he took to heal and regain his strength through programs like PC-PEP.

This episode offers vital insights into early detection, the patient experience, and the empowering role of proactive health management. It highlights how programs like PC-PEP — a six-month, daily, home-based health promotion program developed in Nova Scotia and now available worldwide — can support men to regain agency over their lives, one day at a time.

If you are approaching your 40s or have a family history of prostate cancer, Kyle’s story will remind you that a simple blood test — a PSA test — at your annual check-up could make all the difference. Early detection saves lives.

To learn more about PC-PEP, visit pcpep.org, or explore CancerPEP.com for programs tailored to all cancer types.
You can also watch our documentary Empower to see the real stories behind the science and spirit of our work.

Listen to the audio version of the podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/ available on Buzzsprout and most major podcast platforms, including Apple, Google, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Podcast Index, Player FM, Spotify, and more.
Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Fu70qQFzfrM
Thank you for being here. Let's dive into Kyle’s inspiring story — a story that reminds us of the life-saving power of awareness, action, and community.
Together, we’re not just facing prostate cancer — we’re transforming how we live beyond it.

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast! 🎙️ Episode number 3.

I’m so glad you’ve joined us for this episode, where we dive into the deeply personal and inspiring journeys of individuals navigating life after a prostate cancer diagnosis. I’m your host, Gabriela Ilie, a Scientist committed to developing evidence-based programs that empower cancer patients to take control of their health and reclaim their quality of life. Co-hosting with me in future episodes will be Dr. Rob Rutledge, a prostate cancer oncologist from Nova Scotia, Canada, and my co-founder of PC-PEP. Together, we’ve created programs that go beyond treatment—programs rooted in patient feedback and designed to provide practical tools for truly thriving after a diagnosis.
Today’s guest, Joseph Lyndon, a graduate of our PC-PEP program. Originally from England, Joe moved to Ontario, Canada, to start a new chapter with his wife. Shortly after he arrived in Canada, it was her suggestion to visit the doctor that led to his prostate cancer diagnosis—a diagnosis that came with no symptoms, no family history, and no warning signs. Despite living a healthy lifestyle—plant-based since age 14, physically fit, and rarely needing medical care—his diagnosis brought challenges he never anticipated and he had to face the reality of the higher risks of prostate cancer among Black men.

In this episode, Joe shares how he found meaning and resilience through the highs and lows of his prostate cancer journey, from becoming a grandfather soon after surgery to navigating the emotional complexities of relationships impacted by his diagnosis. We’ll talk about the role of prayer in supporting mental health, reflections on masculinity, and how his former work with Black men and mental health shaped his own perspective on health and healing.
Joe’s story is a testament to the importance of community, connection, and programs like PC-PEP, which empower men to take charge of their health and address the emotional, relational, and physical dimensions of prostate cancer care.

In each episode, we explore stories like Joe’s—real, transformative journeys that highlight PC-PEP’s eight essential pillars: pelvic floor physiotherapy, intimacy and sexuality, nutrition, aerobic and strength training, attitudinal healing, stress management with heart-rate variability tools, social support, and scientific updates. Together, these elements empower patients to live their best lives.

If you’re interested in joining PC-PEP, our program is freely available worldwide for anyone who speaks English or French. Visit PCPEP.org for more details. For those not in a research trial, explore CancerPEP.com, where we offer tailored programs for all cancer types.


Listen to the audio version of the podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/ Available on Buzzsprout and most major podcast platforms, including Apple, Google, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Podcast Index, Player FM, and Spotify and more. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/399kmKcTfrU

Thank you for tuning in. Let’s dive into Joe’s remarkable story—one that reminds us of the power of resilience, vulnerability, and the human spirit. Together, we’re not just navigating prostate cancer; we’re redefining how we live with it! Welcome everyone!

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast! 🎙️

I’m thrilled to welcome you to this episode, where we explore the inspiring journeys of individuals navigating life after a prostate cancer diagnosis. I’m your host, a Scientist dedicated to creating evidence-based programs that empower cancer patients to take control of their health and improve their quality of life. Co-hosting with me in future episodes will be Dr. Rob Rutledge, a prostate cancer oncologist from Nova Scotia, Canada, and my co-founder of PC-PEP. Together, we’ve built programs rooted in patient feedback and rigorous research to deliver practical, life-changing tools that help people thrive—no matter the challenges they face.

Today, we’re honored to feature the story of David Buckland, whose prostate cancer diagnosis came as a complete surprise—no symptoms, no family history. Despite this unexpected journey, David chose to focus on what he could control, seeking information, prioritizing self-care, and finding strength in the supportive communities around him. Through ADT, external beam radiation, and brachytherapy, David not only completed his treatment but also finished his PhD, all while fostering meaningful connections with his sister, his mentors, and the men he met in PC-PEP.

David’s journey exemplifies the power of choosing to live fully and let your spirit shine, no matter the circumstances. In this episode, we’ll discuss how he embraced being present, living his purpose, and staying grounded for himself and those who love him. We’ll also explore how PC-PEP helped David transform his approach to life—offering consistency, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose that continues to resonate years after his treatment.

Patient engagement is a cornerstone of PC-PEP. David and I will dive into how patient feedback has continuously shaped the program, ensuring it adapts to evolving needs and challenges. This is why PC-PEP becomes, as David puts it, a kind of "Hotel California"—you come in, and you never want to leave. It’s a place where laughter, lightheartedness, and heartfelt connection meet practical guidance to help men and their families navigate cancer care and beyond.

David also shares the importance of learning how to talk about cancer in a way that doesn’t dominate your life but allows for normality, thriving, and deep, meaningful connections. Whether with friends, family, or strangers, it’s about finding balance, reclaiming life, and not letting cancer define you.

In each episode, we explore stories like David’s—real, transformative journeys that highlight PC-PEP’s eight essential pillars: pelvic floor physiotherapy, intimacy and sexuality, nutrition, aerobic and strength training, attitudinal healing, stress management with heart-rate variability tools, social support, and scientific updates. Together, these elements empower patients to live their best lives.

If you’re interested in joining the PC-PEP program, it’s available for free to anyone worldwide who speaks English. Visit PCPEP.org for more details. For those not interested in a research trial, explore CancerPEP.com, where our team tailors programs for any cancer diagnosis.

Thank you for joining us, and let’s dive into David’s inspiring story. Together, we’re not just tackling prostate cancer—we’re redefining how we live with it.

Listen to the audio version of the podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/ Available on Buzzsprout and most major podcast platforms, including Apple, Google, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Podcast Index, Player FM, and Spotify and more. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiUwr82WkSM Welcome, everyone!

EMPOWER YOURSELF!

Welcome to the "Prostate Cancer - Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast," Episode Number 1. We're excited to launch our very first episode. Whether you've been diagnosed with prostate cancer, are currently undergoing treatment, or are navigating life post-diagnosis, this podcast is for you. I’m one of your hosts, a Scientist whose work is about creating evidence based interventions with the engagement of patients, to help cancer patients lead better quality lives. Co-hosting with me in next episodes is our program’s co-founder, Dr. Rob Rutledge, a prostate cancer oncologist from Nova Scotia, Canada. Together, Rob and I developed PC-PEP and other cancer types empowerment programs through listening to patients, incorporating their feedback into the strategies we adopted by diving deep into research to create a program designed to empower people (and their partners) with practical, evidence-based strategies that helps them reclaim their life after a prostate cancer diagnosis. We want people to feel confident, informed, and in control because we believe you should not let a prostate cancer diagnosis ruin your life and spoil your precious moments with the people you love. So we are excited to introduce this podcast to you.

Extending from Canada to the far reaches of the globe, including our New Zealand site led by Peter Dickens from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand, PC-PEP reaches out to men and their partners with insights, with wit, a touch of humor, and practical guidance to enhance your prostate cancer journey.

In this inaugural episode, we introduce John Moody from South New Zealand, who shares his heartfelt journey with his wife through his diagnosis and their choice of active surveillance—a path that suits them well. This episode is full of inspiration, practical advice, and firsthand accounts of how the PC-PEP can truly transform lives.

John participated in our comprehensive six-month PC-PEP program, which empowered him to prioritize his happiness and well-being, resulting in a stable decrease in his PSA levels even after completing the program. For John, opting for active surveillance and focusing on self-care has enabled him to live fully, unburdened by constant PSA check-ups. It's a truly uplifting story that reminds us of the power of making informed, empowering choices even in challenging times.

Each episode will dive into real stories that showcase how individuals reclaim their power and zest for life. Our program goes beyond symptom management; it's about fostering real, transformative change. These podcasts talk about the various eight essential areas of the program: pelvic floor physiotherapy, intimacy and sexuality, nutrition with simple, budget-friendly plant-based recipes that Rob and I present weekly from our kitchen social support, aerobic and strength training, attitudinal healing, scientific updates, and stress management using a heart-rate variability and cohearance tool. These elements collectively contribute significantly to enhancing both mental and physical health.

Join us as we explore these compelling narratives and discover how you, too, can be part of this transformative journey. Together, we're not just tackling prostate cancer; we're changing how it's addressed globally.
For those interested in joining the PC-PEP program, it is available for free to anyone worldwide who speaks English. Learn more by visiting us at PCPEP.org. For those who prefer not to participate in a research trial, you can access our cancer empowerment program outside of research at CancerPEP.com. The Video Version of this Podcast can be found on YouTube at the following link: https://youtu.be/Q5HL7flIjB4. Welcome, everyone!

EMPOWER YOURSELF!