In this fascinating episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with renowned bladder cancer expert Dr. Robert Svatek to discuss how the field has been transformed over the past 15 years—and where it's headed next. Dr. Svatek reflects on his journey from academic surgeon and researcher to Vice President of Clinical Development at CG Oncology, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into clinical trials, emerging immunotherapies and the collaborative effort required to bring promising new treatments from the laboratory to patients. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, advocate or healthcare professional, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the remarkable progress being made in bladder cancer research while acknowledging the challenges that remain. You'll also hear how patient participation in clinical trials is driving innovation and why experts are more optimistic than ever about the future of bladder cancer care.

Whether you're facing bladder removal surgery or supporting someone who is, choosing the right urinary diversion can feel overwhelming. In this episode, urologic oncologist Dr. Christine Ibilibor separates fact from fiction, explains the pros and cons of the different diversion options and addresses the unique concerns women often face, from body image and intimacy to recovery and quality of life. Packed with practical advice and reassuring insights, this conversation will help patients feel more informed and more confident when making one of the most important decisions in bladder cancer care.

If you're facing bladder removal surgery, choosing a urinary diversion may be one of the most important decisions you'll ever make—and one of the hardest to understand. In this episode, reconstructive urologist Dr. Divya Ajay shares how real patient experiences inspired a first-of-its-kind decision tool that helps people compare diversion options, set realistic expectations and better prepare for life after surgery. From intimacy and travel to recovery, aging and day-to-day living, this conversation offers practical guidance that can help patients feel more informed, more confident and more in control of their treatment journey. View and download a urinary diversion decision guide.

For patients facing recurrent high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, one of the hardest decisions is whether to remove the bladder or pursue bladder-sparing treatment. In this eye-opening episode, leading bladder cancer expert Angela Smith shares the surprising results of the landmark CISTO study—the first major patient-centered research effort to compare these two approaches from the patient's perspective. Discover why some outcomes favored bladder preservation, why others unexpectedly favored radical cystectomy and how these findings are reshaping conversations between patients and their doctors. If you or a loved one are weighing treatment options, this episode offers powerful insights that could help you make one of the most important decisions of your cancer journey.

Feeling overwhelmed after a bladder cancer diagnosis? Wondering where to turn for trusted information, emotional support, or practical guidance? In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with BCAN's Director of Education and Advocacy, Patricia Rios, for an inside look at the many free resources designed to help patients, caregivers and families navigate bladder cancer with more confidence and less fear. From one-on-one peer support and patient summits to clinical trial tools, webinars, caregiver resources, support groups, survivorship planning, and even BCAN's mobile app, Patricia shares how BCAN helps people feel informed, empowered, and—most importantly—not alone. Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or looking for new ways to connect and advocate, this episode offers practical tools, hope, and a roadmap to the bladder cancer community.

In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host and survivor Rick Bangs sits down with ImmunityBio's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Bobby Reddy, for a fascinating, hopeful look at the future of bladder cancer treatment. They unpack how next-generation immunotherapies like ANKTIVA—paired with innovative approaches to BCG—are reshaping care for patients, especially those with limited options, while also tackling real-world challenges like ongoing BCG shortages. Dr. Reddy breaks down the science in a way that's accessible, highlighting how activating the body's own immune system could lead to longer-lasting responses and even help patients avoid more invasive treatments. Tune in to this conversation about progress and possibility.

In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with urologic oncologist Dr. Minhaj Siddiqui to break down a critical but often overlooked gap in bladder cancer care—and what it means for patients. They explore how non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer is treated, why a simple step after surgery can dramatically reduce recurrence risk, and the surprising reality that many patients aren't receiving this guideline-recommended therapy. Dr. Siddiqui shares insights from a groundbreaking national quality improvement initiative aiming to change that, while also offering practical advice patients can use to advocate for their own care. It's an eye-opening conversation that blends cutting-edge research with real-world impact—and could change how you think about bladder cancer treatment.

In this powerful episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, a podcast by the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, host and survivor Rick Bangs sits down with Vanderbilt nurse Bree Duncan to explore a groundbreaking new role dedicated solely to supporting women with bladder cancer. Created through the vision and generosity of a grateful patient, this female bladder cancer care coordinator position is transforming how women—especially those facing radical cystectomy - experience care, offering direct access, emotional support, faster answers, and a steady, compassionate presence during one of the most overwhelming times of their lives.  Bree shares how this innovative model is reducing ER visits, easing fear, improving recovery, and even inspiring cancer centers beyond the U.S. If you care about health equity, patient-centered care, or simply want to hear what's possible when compassion meets action, this episode will leave you hopeful—and maybe a little inspired to help spark change where you are.

In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs speaks with Dr. Josefa Briceno of AstraZeneca about why bladder cancer care may be at a true turning point. From exploring immunotherapy earlier in the disease journey — even around the time of surgery — to strengthening collaboration between urologists and medical oncologists, the conversation highlights how timing, teamwork, and informed shared decision-making are reshaping care. Dr. Briceno explains what this shift means for patients, why education and self-advocacy are essential, and how partnerships between industry and advocacy organizations like BCAN help ensure innovation reflects real patient needs. It's a hopeful, forward-looking discussion about where bladder cancer treatment is headed — and why patients should feel empowered to be active participants in their care.

In this powerful episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, Rick Bangs sits down with Mike Vasallo, a high school assistant principal diagnosed with early-onset bladder cancer at 46 who turned fear and uncertainty into purpose. Mike shares his raw, honest journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery—and how finding community, asking for help and leaning into advocacy changed everything. He also explains how he uses humor, data and even TikTok trends to educate and reach people who might never otherwise learn about bladder cancer. The conversation dives into the emotional toll of cancer, the realities of treatment and why speaking up can make a life-changing difference for patients and caregivers alike. It's an inspiring, practical and deeply human story about resilience, connection and using your voice to help others feel less alone.