NCODA Logo

PQI PODCAST

The PQI Podcast, presented by NCODA, Inc., hosts clinical and administrative experts in oncology providing insight on important industry topics and how they value the Positive Quality Intervention (PQI) resource for their practice. In addition, the podcast highlights patient stories of hope, determination and how patient-centered care has impacted their cancer journey. 

Hosted by:

Ginger Blackmon, PharmD

Associate Director of Clinical Initiatives

Season 7 Ep. 17: Celebrating the Season: Highlights and Holiday Fun with Sharita Howe and Pat Connelly

In this special holiday episode, they’re looking back on 2024’s highlights, sharing their personal journeys that led to NCODA, and looking ahead to all the exciting possibilities in 2025. Get ready for some holiday cheer with Christmas trivia, spirited cookie debates, and heartwarming stories about why NCODA’s mission continues to inspire.

Season 7 Ep. 16: Improving Oncology Care for Veterans

In the Season 7 finale of The PQI Podcast, we bring you a compelling discussion on advancing cancer care for veterans. Join exceptional guests Cindy Bowman, Oncology Nurse Navigator at Bay Pines VA Healthcare System and past president of AVAHO, and John Ziegler, Director of Federal Healthcare at Bristol Myers Squibb, as they share their insights and experiences into serving veteran patients.

Read more

Cindy and John explore the unique challenges veterans face, especially in rural areas, and explore innovative solutions like telehealth, coordinated care, and public-private partnerships aimed at improving care quality and access for this deserving population.

Tune in for this impactful conclusion to Season 7, where we honor the service of our veterans and those who dedicate their lives to their care. Thank you for joining us this season, and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations in Season 8!

Additional Resources:
Veteran Patient Cancer Care

Season 7 Ep. 15: Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Making a Difference in Oncology Care

Welcome to a special Veterans Day episode of the PQI Podcast! Host Ginger Blackmon hands over hosting duties to NCODA’s own veteran, Victoria Eno, who brings her deep commitment and passion to honor her fellow veterans. Victoria, who has served both our country and NCODA with dedication, sits down with inspiring NCODA members and partners who have also served in the military and are now making a profound impact in oncology care.

Read more

In this episode, you’ll hear from veterans who have carried invaluable life lessons from their military service into healthcare, where they’re now transforming patient care in oncology. From time in uniform to impactful roles in clinical pharmacy, nursing, and healthcare management, these incredible guests share how their experiences have shaped their personal and professional journeys.

Join us for an uplifting conversation that honors our heroes in healthcare as they continue their mission of service in communities across the country.

Featured Guests:

  • Chris Saenz, PharmD | Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Memorial Hermann Health System
  • Ryan Blackmon, RN | Chemo Infusion Nurse, Mayo Clinic Florida
  • Jay Moore | Director, Market Access Southeast Region, Taiho Oncology, Inc.
  • Victoria Eno | Marketing Manager, NCODA
  • Gayle Thompson, PharmD, MBA | Director of Pharmacy Operations, Duly Health and Care
  • Robert D. Orzechowski, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP | Chief Operating Officer, Lancaster Cancer Center, Ltd. (retired)

Season 7 Ep. 14: Enhancing Transplant Care with David Samuel, PharmD

In this week’s episode, David Samuel, PharmD, a Stem Cell Transplant Clinical Pharmacist at Texas Oncology in Dallas, shares his journey in oncology pharmacy, highlighting his role in supporting outpatient stem cell transplant and CAR-T cell therapy patients. He also emphasizes the importance of patient education and the human connections that enhance oncology care.

Read more

David shares his inspiring journey through oncology pharmacy and offers a unique glimpse into his pivotal role in supporting outpatient stem cell transplant recipients and CAR-T cell therapy patients. He also highlights the vital patient education initiatives at Texas Oncology’s Bone Marrow Transplant program, emphasizing the human connection that underpins effective oncology care.

Tune in for an insightful conversation that highlights the vital role clinical pharmacists play in not just delivering care but also in empowering patients through their oncology journeys.

Season 7 Ep. 13: Resilience, Record-Breaking & Breast Cancer Awareness with Chaunte Lowe

In this special episode of The PQI Podcast, we’re honored to welcome our recent Fall Summit Keynote Speaker, four-time Olympian Chaunte Lowe. Chaunte shares her remarkable story of resilience, the mindset that fuels her success, and her passion for empowering others facing their own battles.

Read more

Chaunte is a four-time Olympian, world champion, and the American record-holder in the high jump, known for her groundbreaking achievements in track and field. Chaunte’s journey took a life-altering turn in 2019 with a breast cancer diagnosis. Refusing to let this define her, Chaunte continued training throughout surgeries and chemotherapy, determined to maintain her strength and focus. Her story became more than an athletic legacy—it transformed into a mission to raise awareness for breast cancer and emphasize the importance of early detection.

Season 7 Ep. 12: Advancing Cancer Care with Precision Medicine and the Pharmacist’s Role with Todd Knepper, PharmD

This week, we welcome Todd Knepper, PharmD, Associate Member in Precision Medicine at Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. Knepper discusses the development of Moffitt’s Precision Medicine program and its vital role in integrating precision medicine information to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment, and understanding.

Read more

He shares insights into the power of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) reports and the crucial data points that drive personalized therapies.

We also dive into the growing role of pharmacists in precision medicine, including Dr. Knepper’s contributions to the molecular tumor board.

Links Mentioned:

OncoKB

cBioPortal

ClinVar

Season 7 Ep. 11: Sarcoma Landscape & Emerging Treatments with Dr. Tony Philip

In this episode of the PQI podcast, Dr. Tony Philip, Director of Quality and Patient Safety for Medical Oncology at the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center, shares his insights into the evolving landscape of sarcoma care.

Read more

With a special focus on desmoid tumors, he dives into the latest treatment advancements and their implications for patient outcomes. Dr. Philip brings a wealth of expertise, having served with organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the Connective Tissue Oncology Society, and the American College of Physicians.

As an Assistant Professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Dr. Philip has a solid foundation in hematology and oncology, having completed his fellowship at North Shore-LIJ. His robust background in sarcoma management positions him to provide valuable perspectives on improving patient care in this complex field.

Streaming on all major platforms.

Season 7 Ep. 10: Navigating Cancer & Mental Health with Nancy Gregory

In honor of World Mental Health Day, we sit down with Nancy Gregory, a healthcare compliance professional and cancer survivor. Nancy recounts her life-changing experience following an acute myeloid leukemia (AML) diagnosis when a persistent cold turned into a life-threatening condition. Faced with immediate chemotherapy, a stem cell transplant, long-term isolation, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nancy’s journey highlights the psychological struggles cancer patients often face.

Read more

In this episode, Nancy highlights the emotional and mental toll of her cancer journey, emphasizing how the psychological impact often outweighed the physical challenges. She discusses her role as a Peer Support Volunteer with NMDP (Be the Match), where she guides other AML patients through their treatment experiences and shares her insights as both a patient and an advocate.

Nancy also previews her upcoming presentation at NCODA’s Fall Summit, where she will delve into the importance of integrating mental health care into oncology support systems. She offers practical resources and discusses her upcoming blog for the Target Cancer Foundation, which further explores these critical themes.

Tune in to hear Nancy’s powerful story and insights on improving the mental health experience for cancer patients. This special episode is available on all major streaming platforms.

Season 7 Ep. 9: Special Takeover Edition with Pat Connelly

In this special Takeover Edition of the PQI Podcast, NCODA’s Chief Development and Strategy Officer, Pat Connelly, takes the mic to interview host Ginger Blackmon, reflecting on the podcast’s journey and growth across seven seasons.

Read more

The episode kicks off with a playful game called “Drug or Gibberish,” where Ginger tests her skills in identifying real medications versus made-up names, with each correct guess leading to a donation to the National Marrow Donor Program. 

Together, Pat and Ginger explore how the show has transformed into a vital resource for sharing knowledge and experiences within the oncology community, celebrating its recent nomination for the MM+M Award in the Use of Podcasting category. They discuss the importance of diverse topics, consistent content, and the connections fostered through interviews with industry experts.

Tune in to discover insights from Ginger’s journey, the evolution of the podcast, and how you can leverage its resources to enhance your understanding of oncology practice.

Season 7 Ep. 8: Sickle Cell Disease Insights with Onye Ononogbu PharmD, MPH, BCOP

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the world of sickle cell disease (SCD) with Onye Ononogbu, PharmD, MPH, BCOP, an expert whose work is making a real impact on the lives of those affected by this condition.

Read more

Dr. Ononogbu is not only a distinguished pharmacist and researcher but also an Assistant Professor at the University of Houston, where she investigates the complexities of SCD, Multiple Myeloma, and health disparities, aiming to uncover insights that can truly transform patient care.

In addition to her academic role, Dr. Ononogbu serves as a Board-Certified Hematology/Oncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist at a Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, where she provides specialized care and treatment for complex patient cases. Her clinical practice informs her research and offers practical solutions to improve patient outcomes in SCD care.

Dr. Ononogbu is also deeply committed to mentoring future pharmacy leaders. She co-founded Pharmacy Initiative Leaders (PILs), a non-profit organization that helps pharmacy students secure post-doctoral residencies and fellowships, with a special emphasis on promoting diversity within the pharmacy workforce. A strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in healthcare, Dr. Ononogbu is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to quality care, improving patient-provider communication, and fostering cultural competency in clinical settings. Her work continues to shape the future of pharmacy and improve care for those affected by sickle cell disease.

Today’s podcast is available to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for CE credit and is worth 0.5 credits.

To register for CE credit, please visit:

https://www.lecturepanda.com/r/SCDOnDemand

The objectives of today’s podcast are:

  • Discuss Sickle Cell Disease including pathophysiology as well as the history and timeline of SCD treatment.
  • Interpret current challenges in SCD management and practical strategies to help improve care.

Onye has no relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Season 7 Ep. 7: Hope, Resilience & The Power of Community with Alyssa Wakeley

In this heartfelt episode, we talk with Alyssa Wakeley, a breast cancer survivor and the founder of Warriors That Pray. Diagnosed with breast cancer at just 27, Alyssa shares her personal cancer experience, how she turned her adversity into a mission, and the role Warriors That Pray play in empowering others.

Read more

Alyssa’s powerful story is one of resilience, faith, and a deep sense of purpose. Her journey led to the creation of Warriors That Pray, a community centered on hope and support, where individuals navigating their own battles are uplifted and celebrated through meaningful jewelry. 

This conversation dives into the impact of finding community, embracing your story, and holding on to hope through tangible reminders. You’ll be inspired by Alyssa’s unwavering strength and the beautiful message behind her organization. 

Discover more about Warriors That Pray at warriorsthatpray.com and connect with Alyssa on Instagram @warriorsthatpray

Season 7 Ep. 6: Mastering Patient Communication & Palliative Care with Dr. Toby Campbell

Handling difficult conversations in patient care is both challenging and essential. This week, we sit down with Dr. Toby Campbell, a palliative care expert and Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He shares insights on managing these crucial talks and offers practical strategies to enhance patient interactions and improve care outcomes.

Read more

Dr. Toby Campbell is a Professor of Medicine, a Thoracic Oncologist, and Chief of Palliative Care. He holds the Ellen and Peter O. Johnson Chair in Palliative Care at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Renowned for his expertise in handling complex conversations—such as delivering bad news, conducting family meetings, and managing high-risk decisions—he shares valuable insights from his extensive research and clinical practice. His multidisciplinary work has been published in top medical, surgical, and communication journals. Dr. Campbell’s compassionate patient care has earned him several prestigious humanism awards from institutions, including the University of Virginia, the University of Wisconsin, and Northwestern University.

Season 7 Ep. 5: Updates in CAR T-Cell Therapy for Multiple Myeloma with Jordan Scott, PharmD

In this episode, Jordan Scott, PharmD, from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, shares insights into the latest advancements in CAR T-cell therapy for Multiple Myeloma.

This week’s episode offers pharmacists the opportunity to earn 0.5 CE credit hours while exploring the newly expanded scope of CAR T-cell therapy and novel toxicities associated with specific CAR-T products. Learn effective management strategies for these toxicities and enhance patient outcomes in your practice.

Read more

Jordan earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from D’Youville University in 2021. He completed his PGY1 Pharmacy residency training at Buffalo General Medical Center and PGY2 Oncology Pharmacy residency training at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer. His areas of practice include lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and transplant/cellular therapies. He is involved in direct patient care, collaborative practice, precepting, teaching, and research. Jordan is an avid football fan, cheering on the home team in Buffalo. Go Bills!

To register for CE credit, please visit: 

https://www.lecturepanda.com/r/CARTOnDemand

Jordan has no relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Season 7 Ep. 4: Breast Cancer & Healthy Equity with Dr. Oluwadamilola "Lola" Fayanju

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Oluwadamilola “Lola” Fayanju, a leader in breast cancer care and health equity. With a remarkable background that spans clinical excellence and innovative research, Dr. Fayanju holds the Helen O. Dickens Presidential Associate Professorship at the University of Pennsylvania (PENN) and serves as Chief of Breast Surgery at Penn Medicine. She also leads as the Surgical Director of the Rena Rowan Breast Center, directs Health Equity Innovation at the Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, and is a Senior Fellow at the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics.

Season 7 Ep. 3: Nourishing Health: Maggie Green on Culinary Dietetics, Cancer Care & Cookbook Creations

Nutrition is pivotal in cancer care, impacting treatment outcomes, recovery, and overall quality of life. In this episode, we explore this essential connection with Maggie Green, RDN, LD—a culinary dietitian, cookbook author, and host of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Maggie discusses how a proper diet can support cancer treatment and enhance patient well-being. 

Read more

She also shares insights from her experiences as a cookbook author and coach, offering valuable advice on bringing culinary ideas to life. Tune in to discover how nutrition and food can profoundly influence health and healing.

You can find information on The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics here

Learn more about Maggie here

Find her cookbooks at the links below:

Kentucky Fresh Cookbook

Tasting Kentucky: Favorite Recipes from the Bluegrass State

Essential Pantry: Streamline Your Ingredients, Simplify Your Meals

Essential Plant-Based Pantry: Streamline Your Ingredients, Simplify Your Meals

Season 7 Ep. 2: Navigating Kidney Cancer Care: Insights from Clinical Pharmacy Specialists with Emily Wang, PharmD, BCOP and Julia Stevens, PharmD, BCOP

New treatments and managing side effects are key challenges in kidney cancer care. In our latest episode of The PQI Podcast, we team up with the Kidney Cancer Association, Emily Wang, PharmD, BCOP, from MD Anderson, and Julia Stevens, PharmD, BCOP, from Beth Israel Deaconess, to share valuable insights into the newest advancements in kidney cancer therapies and practical strategies for managing side effects from TKI and IO treatments.

Learn more about the Kidney Cancer Association here

Season 7 Ep. 1: Beyond the Firewall: Enhancing Cybersecurity in Oncology Care with Ben Harkness & Mark Moch

Welcome to the Season 7 premiere of The PQI Podcast! We’re starting this season with a critical topic that has significantly impacted the healthcare industry: the urgent need for enhanced IT security measures. In this episode, field experts Ben Harkness (Director of IT, Utah Cancer Specialists) and Mark Moch (CIO, American Oncology Network) share how cutting-edge cybersecurity strategies reshape healthcare.

Read more

Gain valuable insights into proactive measures to safeguard patient data and the vital collaboration between IT and healthcare professionals. Don’t miss these essential tips to keep your practice ahead of emerging challenges and enhance your security systems.

RESOURCES

Cost Avoidance Waste Tracker

Positive Quality Interventions

PQI in Action

OCE Sheets

IVE Sheets

Treatment Support Kits

PQI Podcast

Members

Member Resources

OPTA

Committees

Member Login

Events

Webinars

Spring Forum

Oncology Institute

PSO Annual Meeting

Fall Summit

contact@ncoda.org

315-655-4640

P.O. Box 468
Cazenovia, NY 13035

NCODA Logo

NCODA is a 501(c)(3) Organization