The If You Are My Brothers Podcast

From Diagnosis to Assignment: David Moffett’s Story

Episode Show Notes
Guest: David Moffett (Prostate cancer survivor, U.S. Marine veteran, founder/advocate)
Host: Reggie Hicks
Theme: Breaking the silence around prostate cancer, survivorship, side effects, and building support systems
Episode Summary
Reggie Hicks closes out the final show of 2025 with a candid, survivor-centered conversation featuring David Moffett, a Marine veteran, husband, father, and grandfather whose life changed after a routine physical revealed elevated PSA levels. David shares that he had little to no understanding of prostate cancer beforehand, and what made it harder was realizing that the prostate cancer histories of his father, grandfather, and stepfather were never directly discussed with him—he only learned details through the women in his life. That silence fueled frustration, grief, and ultimately a sense of calling to break a generational pattern.
David recounts the shock of being told he had cancer in a public workplace setting—a moment that left him devastated and scrambling to process how he would tell his wife and family. He describes navigating the medical system, including a first urologist whose approach triggered his PTSD and felt dismissive, and how switching to a more supportive physician changed everything. David emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, encouraging men to “fire” doctors who don’t listen, don’t explain, or don’t treat them with dignity.
He also walks through the decision-making process between radiation, active surveillance, and surgery—ultimately choosing prostate removal because he couldn’t emotionally carry the weight of “watching” the cancer over time. The conversation turns deeply real as David and Reggie talk about post-surgery side effects, including incontinence, the emotional impact of sexual changes, and the trial-and-error path many men face in trying to regain function. David shares how faith, his wife’s support, and time helped him heal—and how he now challenges the damaging idea that erections define “manhood.”
During COVID, what began as a personal recovery journey became a mission: David launched the DMOF Prostate Cancer Support Group and later Courage and Strength to Fight, Inc., creating safe spaces for men (and increasingly women caregivers) to speak openly about fear, relationships, depression, intimacy, and survivorship.
Reggie closes with a call to action: know your PSA, don’t suffer in silence, and support the podcast’s year-end fundraising challenge grant.
5 key takeaways
•Silence can be deadly. Prostate cancer often goes undiscussed in families—David didn’t learn key family history until after his diagnosis. Open conversations can change outcomes.
•Advocate for yourself (and switch doctors if needed). A supportive provider who listens, welcomes questions, and respects your dignity can transform your experience and decision-making.
•PSA is a clue—not the whole story. David’s PSA wasn’t extremely high, yet cancer was present throughout his prostate; understanding PSA alongside other diagnostics matters.
•Side effects are real—and survivable. Incontinence, ED, and emotional distress can hit hard after treatment. Healing takes time, support, and honest guidance (and it’s okay to grieve). •Your value isn’t your erection. David challenges the “manhood” narrative and reframes masculinity around character, love, fatherhood, faith, and community, encouraging men to seek support rather than suffer alone.
Guest Bio — David Moffett David Moffett is a U.S. Marine veteran, prostate cancer survivor, and men’s health advocate based in Georgia. After his own diagnosis and treatment journey, David committed himself to breaking the silence that keeps many men from seeking help. He founded Courage and Strength to Fight, Inc., a nonprofit focused on creating safe spaces for men and families to discuss prostate cancer, treatment realities, side effects, mental health, and survivorship.
He also leads the DMOF Prostate Cancer Support Group, bringing together a growing brotherhood (and supportive caregivers) to replace isolation with community, faith, and practical resources.
Books, tools, and websites mentioned
Websites / Links
• If You Are My Brothers (donate): ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate
• If You Are My Brothers (main site mentioned): ifyouaremybrothers.com
• Courage and Strength to Fight: www.courageandstrengthtofight.com

Beyond the Beam: What Radiation Really Means for Patients

When a man hears the words “You have prostate cancer,” everything stops — but your next steps don’t have to be confusing. In this powerful episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks sits down with renowned radiation oncologist Dr. James Benton, President of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, to break down prostate cancer treatment with honesty, clarity, and hope. Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or exploring treatment options, this conversation will help you understand the choices available — and how to make an informed decision. 💬
What We Discuss in This Episode
Why early detection is saving lives
PSA testing, Gleason scores, and understanding your diagnosis
Treatment paths: brachytherapy, external beam radiation, proton therapy & more
What “Prosticision” really is — and who it’s right for
Genomic testing (Polaris, Decipher, GPS) and why it matters, especially for Black men
Side effects explained in plain English — what to expect and what’s temporary
Why prostate cancer disproportionately impacts African American men -How to manage the emotional weight of a diagnosis
Honest advice for men choosing between active surveillance, surgery, or radiation
👨‍⚕️ About Our Guest: Dr. James Benton brings decades of experience in community-based, personalized cancer care. A graduate of Morehouse School of Medicine and Emory University (Chief Resident), he has treated thousands of men and is committed to helping patients navigate prostate cancer with confidence and dignity.
📘 Resources Mentioned
Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia (RCOG) https://georgiaradiationtherapy.com/
Free Prostate Cancer Guide for Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia https://info.georgiaradiationtherapy....
Genomic testing options: Polaris, Decipher, GPS
If You Are My Brothers: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org
🙏 Support Our Work
If You Are My Brothers is a nonprofit dedicated to turning health awareness into health action for men everywhere. Your support helps us reach more families with lifesaving information.
Donate here: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate. Receive your official IYAMB commemorative mug with any contribution. Each donation enters you into our drawing for an original Everyman painting by world-renowned artist Cecil Bernard.
New episodes every Wednesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms.
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If You Are My Brothers… You will share this message. Stay healthy, stay informed, and stay encouraged.

Protect the Prostate: Myths, Truths, and What Every Man Needs to Know

Most men don’t talk about prostate health until something goes wrong. But nutrition, movement, stress management, and small daily habits can dramatically influence prostate health—before, during, and after cancer treatment. 
In this special holiday-season episode of the If You Are My Brothers Podcast, host Reggie Hicks sits down with two experienced oncology dietitians—Valerie Buckley and Alison Sturgill—to break down the myths, truths, and practical everyday strategies that help men protect their prostate, reduce inflammation, and support long-term survivorship. This episode is filled with actionable advice, myth-busting clarity, and encouraging, realistic strategies for men on every step of the prostate cancer journey.
Key Takeaways
1. Don’t fear food. Food is not the enemy; confusion is. Nutrition is one piece of a larger lifestyle picture—exercise, mental health, bone health, and stress management all matter.
2. The “sugar feeds cancer” myth hurts more than it helps. Avoiding all sugar can lead to weight loss, low energy, and making treatment harder. Added sugars should be limited—but natural sugars in fruit, dairy, and balanced meals are essential fuel.
3. Supplements aren’t magic, and some can be harmful during treatment. Saw palmetto, NAC, antioxidant megadoses, and over-the-counter blends can interfere with radiation or medications. Always tell your doctor exactly what you’re taking.
4. ADT (hormone therapy) increases risks for weight gain, bone loss, and metabolic syndrome. This makes strength training, vitamin D, and calcium monitoring, and reducing inflammatory foods, especially important.
5. Small daily changes beat drastic diet overhauls. Examples: • Swap whole milk for 1% • Use a smaller plate • Add a 10-minute walk • Eat before holiday meals.
6. Exercise reduces cravings and improves treatment tolerance. Even simple movement boosts mood, energy, and helps maintain healthy weight and muscle.
7. Single men can still succeed—there are real tools available. Meal kits, frozen dietitian-designed meals, grocery guides, and simple sheet-pan recipes make healthy eating achievable.
8. The holidays don’t have to derail your health. Portion control + movement + not waiting until the meal to eat = better outcomes. And yes—save room for dessert without guilt.
9. Give yourself grace. Cancer is complex. This is not your fault. Focus on progress, not perfection.
Featured Expert Resources
1. AICR — American Institute for Cancer Research Evidence-based nutrition, recipes, and cancer-prevention resources. 🔗 aicr.org
2. Prostate Cancer Foundation — Nutrition & Lifestyle Guide Downloadable patient-friendly guide covering diet, exercise, and survivorship. 🔗 pcf.org
3. Oncology Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group: Find an oncology-specialized dietitian in your region.
Episode Action Steps for Men
✔ Tell your doctor about ALL supplements you take.
✔ Start small: one diet change + one movement change.
✔ Manage inflammation: reduce saturated fat, processed meats, sugary drinks.
✔ Stay hydrated, especially during radiation.
✔ Plan holiday meals instead of “saving up.”
✔ Ask your treatment center if a dietitian is available.
✔ Use meal kits, frozen meals, or prepped meals if you’re single or busy.
✔ Treat food as medicine—but also as joy. Eat the rainbow.
Support the Work
If You Are My Brothers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to prostate cancer awareness, storytelling, and health action.
🎁 Donate & receive the commemorative IYAMB mug
🎨 Enter the drawing for the original Cecil Bernard “Everyman” artwork
🌐 Donate at ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate
Connect With Us
• Website: ifyouaremybrothers.org
• YouTube: Subscribe for episodes & VOD
• Newsletter: Bi-monthly updates & resources
• Social: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | X

The Psychology of Prostate Cancer - Helping Men Cope

Prostate cancer doesn’t just affect the body — it challenges identity, relationships, intimacy, confidence, and emotional well-being. Yet too often, men face these struggles in silence. In this powerful episode of the If You Are My Brothers Podcast, host Reggie Hicks sits down with Max McMahon, LICSW — a clinician who has worked closely with men and their families at the world-renowned Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological realities of prostate cancer.
 
Max brings deep insight into:
✅ The hidden emotional toll of prostate cancer
✅ How diagnosis affects masculinity, identity & relationships
✅ Why men often struggle to ask for help — and how to change that
✅ Tools to cope with fear, anxiety, and uncertainty
✅ The importance of talking about intimacy & sexual health
✅ Emerging therapeutic approaches — including psychedelic-assisted support in cancer care
 
Whether you are a prostate cancer survivor, caregiver, partner, or simply someone who believes men deserve safe spaces to talk, this conversation offers truth, compassion, and hope. You are not alone. We are brothers in this fight — and together, we heal.
 
🔔 Call to Action
 
If this episode moved you or someone you love, please:
 
👍 Like this podcast
🔁 Share it with another brother or family member
🗣️ Comment your takeaway or question below
📌 Subscribe for more life-changing conversations about men’s health & healing
 
Learn more or get involved: www.IfYouAreMyBrothers.org
Support our efforts at www.ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate

From My Journey to Your Questions — A Live Conversation with The Host- Episode 108

What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee? In this special live episode, host and prostate cancer survivor Reggie Hicks steps from behind the camera to the center of the conversation — answering questions sent directly from listeners, brothers, caregivers, and men who are quietly wondering… “Could this be me?” Originally scheduled with guest David Moffett — this episode takes an intimate, unexpected turn after a last-minute change leads Reggie to open up fully about his own diagnosis, treatment decisions, proton therapy experience, fears, faith, masculinity, recovery… and what it really means to keep living forward. This is not scripted. It’s Reggie — raw, real, and here to tell the truth. -In this episode, Reggie answers YOUR questions:
-What was the exact moment you knew something was wrong?
-How did you go from filmmaker to patient?
-Did your identity as a Black man and fraternity brother affect your decisions?
-What did proton therapy REALLY feel like — week 1 vs week 3?
-How do you handle side effects men never talk about?
-And the big one: “How do you move forward without living in fear?”
Why this episode matters
So many men suffer in silence. shame. delay. denial. This episode is an invitation to do the opposite.
To get informed. Ask the questions. And maybe — save a life. 
If this resonated — don’t keep it to yourself. LIKE • SUBSCRIBE • SHARE with one brother today.
Learn more or send your own questions at: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/
Support the mission — We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3). Please support us at https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate 

Let's Talk About What No One Talks About: ED & Incontinence After Prostate Cancer

Guest: Dr. Cara Cimmino, Associate Professor of Urology, Emory University School of Medicine
Host: Reggie Hicks
Live Streamed: October 9, 2025 @ 7 pm (EDT)
Available on: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms
Episode Summary
Erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence are two of the most common — yet least discussed — potential risks after prostate cancer treatment. In this honest, transparent, and informative episode, host Reggie Hicks talks with Dr. Cara Cimmino, a leading urologist who specializes in men’s health at Emory University, to explore the medical, emotional, and psychological realities behind these conditions. Together, they explore what’s really happening in the body after treatment, why some men experience these risks more than others, and how patients can take proactive steps toward recovery. Dr. Cimmino also breaks down common myths, explains why “quick fix” ED clinics can sometimes disappoint patients, and shares practical approaches — from pelvic floor therapy to medication — that can help men regain confidence and quality of life.
Key Discussion Points
• What are erectile dysfunction (ED) and urinary incontinence, and why do they happen after prostate cancer treatment?
• How common are these risks — and can patients prevent or minimize them?
• The truth about “miracle cure” ED clinics and popular myths about recovery.
• Why men often struggle to talk about these issues — and how doctors can build trust and break the silence.
• The mind-body connection in healing: what part is physical, what part is psychological.
• Practical strategies for recovery, from pelvic floor therapy to lifestyle changes.
• Promising new developments in men’s post-treatment.
• Words of encouragement for survivors: life after prostate cancer can still be full and fulfilling.
About the Guest
Dr. Cara Cimmino is an Associate Professor of Urology at Emory University School of Medicine. Since 2012, she has specialized in men’s health, focusing on erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, testosterone therapy, and surgeries that enhance quality of life. She is also an educator and mentor to medical students and urology residents, advancing awareness and understanding of men’s health challenges.
Resources & Links
• Visit: IfYouAreMyBrothers.org
• Learn more about Dr. Cara Cimmino and Emory Urology: med.emory.edu/urology
• Explore The Creator’s Nature Blend (episode sponsor): TheCreatorsNatureBlend.com 
Subscribe and share: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Facebook | LinkedIn
Special Thanks
Producer: Daniel (Dani) Garcia-Pozo
Opening: Zach Reynolds, Borkhouse Productions
Closing Message: “If you are my brothers, you will share this message. Stay connected, stay informed, and keep the conversation going."
 
If You Are My Brothers is a project of Straight Street Media, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to prostate cancer awareness and health action.
 

Transparent. Honest. Necessary: Talking Prostate Cancer Out Loud With A Special Guest

In this episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks steps into the guest chair for a candid conversation with producer Dani about his own prostate cancer journey. Reggie breaks the silence around men’s health, reminding us that silence can be deadly. Together, they tackle every part of the experience — from difficult treatment decisions to the realities of side effects like fatigue, incontinence, and erectile dysfunction. Nothing is sugar-coated. The discussion also highlights the impact on mental health, relationships, and self-esteem, while emphasizing the importance of resilience and compassion in the healing process. Reggie reflects on the long road back to “normal life,” sharing both hopeful moments of recovery and the ongoing challenges of adjustment. Along the way, myths about prostate cancer are dismantled, showing that vulnerability is not weakness, but a strength that builds connection and empowerment.
 
Key takeaway: Talking openly about prostate cancer isn’t just healing — it’s lifesaving. These stories matter for brothers, fathers, uncles, and friends who need to hear them.
 
This episode is sponsored by The Creator’s Nature Blend — pure and natural herbal serums, tinctures, oils, and tonics handcrafted with homegrown and wildcrafted ingredients. Learn more at https://www.thecreatorsnatureblend.com/.
 
All episodes are archived on your favorite podcast platforms and on our website at https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/podcast. To learn more about the If You Are My Brothers, Prostate Cancer Documentary and Community Engagement Project, visit https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/ If
 
You Are My Brothers is a project of Straight Street Media https://straightstreetmedia.org/, a nonprofit media organization that creates thought-provoking projects to inspire positive change. More than just entertainment, our documentaries, podcasts, films, and other digital media offerings are designed to connect and engage the audience. We are committed to "opening Eyes to a New Vision."

The Science of Prostate Cancer: Breakthroughs on the Horizon

On this episode, The Science of Prostate Cancer: Breakthroughs on the Horizon," Host Reggie Hicks and Dr. Robert Gatenby break down how evolution-informed adaptive therapy can outsmart resistance in metastatic prostate cancer—extending control, reducing toxicity, and pointing toward a future where prostate cancer is managed like a chronic condition. Tune in for practical questions to ask your oncologist, real trial insights, and a hopeful path forward.
Guest Contact
Dr. Gatenby welcomes contact via email, Robert.Gatenby@moffitt.org. He encourages patients to involve their treating oncologist in any discussion about adaptive strategies.
If You Are My Brothers — Ep. “The Science of Prostate Cancer: Breakthroughs on the Horizon” Host: Reggie Hicks Guest: Dr. Robert “Bob” Gatenby — Department Chair & Program Leader of Diagnostic Imaging & Interventional Radiology; Co-Director, Center for Excellence for Evolutionary Therapy (Tampa, FL) Series: Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Special Recorded Live: Multistream (YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook) Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for education only and is not to be used as a substitute for medical care. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Episode Summary
Reggie sits down with Dr. Robert “Bob” Gatenby to explore where prostate cancer care is headed right now—and how evolution-informed, adaptive therapy is changing the goal from an all-out “kill every cell” approach to long-term control with better quality of life. They unpack why metastatic disease remains deadly despite new drugs, how treatment itself can select for resistance, and why math and ecology (yes, goats on the Galápagos!) can guide smarter therapy sequencing. Dr. Gatenby shares eye-opening results from adaptive-therapy trials, practical guidance for patients and oncologists, and a bold prediction: in the near future, prostate cancer could be managed as a chronic condition rather than a cause of death.
Key Takeaways
Cure vs. Control: Localized prostate cancer is often curable; metastatic disease remains fatal largely due to the evolution of drug resistance.
•Why “maximum dose” can backfire: Hitting tumors with continuous, high-dose therapy kills sensitive cells and selects for resistant ones that drive relapse.
•Adaptive therapy in practice: Treat to reduce tumor burden, then pause to let drug-sensitive cells keep resistant cells in check; re-treat as needed.
•Trial signals: In castrate-sensitive and castrate-resistant settings, adaptive approaches have shown longer time to progression and overall survival while using less drug and reducing side effects.
•Math matters: Cancer is a complex adaptive system. Mathematical modeling helps predict nonlinear dynamics and design smarter therapy sequences.
•Patient playbook: If a cure is plausible, pursue it. If metastatic/incurable, prioritize long-term control + quality of life and discuss adaptive strategies with your oncologist.
•Hopeful horizon: With directed evolution strategies, prostate cancer could be managed like a chronic disease in the coming years.
Resources & Links
•Project & Podcast: If You Are My Brothers — website: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/
•Learn more about adaptive/evolutionary therapy: Ask your oncologist about intermittent/adaptive strategies and whether a clinical trial is appropriate in your case.
•Screening: Talk to your clinician about PSA testing and individualized screening plans, especially if you’re high-risk.
For Patients & Caregivers
•If your disease is localized, discuss curative options.
•If metastatic, ask about goals (control vs. cure), treatment breaks, biomarkers (e.g., PSA trends), side-effect management, and quality of life.
•Consider a second opinion at centers familiar with adaptive/evolutionary therapy; ensure your treating oncologist stays “captain of the ship.”
Mentioned
•Sponsor: The Creators Nature Blend — herbal serums, oils, and tonics online at https://www.thecreatorsnatureblend.com/
•Community Event (Atlanta): National Black Arts Festival — “Thriving Together,” Saturday, Sept 28 at Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park online at https://nbaf.org/thriving-together-atlanta-community-arts-and-wellness-festival
Credits
• Host & Producer: Reggie Hicks
• Technical Producer: Daniel “Danny” Garcia Poso
• Theme: Zach Reynolds, Borkhouse Productions, https://www.borkhouse.com/ • A Straight Street Media project, www.straightstreetmedia.org
Next Episode
“Transparent, Honest, Necessary: Talking Prostate Cancer Out Loud” — Live next Thursday at 7:00 PM ET. Please bring your questions; nothing is off-limits.
 
 
 

Rethinking Prostate Cancer: Equity, Innovation, and Hope

This is the second episode in our four-part series during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Today’s conversation is titled “Rethinking Prostate Cancer: Equity, Innovation, and Hope” with Dr. Shaun Owens. Together, we’ll explore the challenges and opportunities in advancing prostate cancer equity, the role of technology in decision-making, and what the future holds for prevention and education.
Dr. Shaun Owens, associate professor at the University of South Carolina’s College of Social Work and director of the Healthy Aging Research and Technology Lab. His work spans prostate cancer, health equity, and smart-home technologies that help older adults age with independence. Dr. Owens has published widely on prostate cancer, including strategies for recruiting African-American men to research, developing a computer-based decision aid, and advancing shared decision-making in screening and treatment. He earned his Master of Public Health from Emory University and his Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina.
 
This episode is sponsored by The Creator’s Nature Blend — pure and natural herbal serums, tinctures, oils, and tonics handcrafted with homegrown and wildcrafted ingredients. Learn more at https://www.thecreatorsnatureblend.com/.
 
Finally, if you’re in Atlanta, join us at the National Black Arts Festival’s Thriving Together event on Saturday, September 27, at the Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park. It’s a free day of art, wellness, and community focused on racial health equity.
Visit https://nbaf.org/thriving-together-atlanta-community-arts-and-wellness-festival/ for details.
All episodes are archived on your favorite podcast platforms.  Remember, you can always listen and engage with us at our website, www.ifyouaremybrothers.org/podcast
 
To learn more about the If You Are My Brothers, Prostate Cancer Documentary and Community Engagement Project, visit  https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/
 
If You Are My Brothers is a project of Straight Street Media, a nonprofit media organization that creates thought-provoking projects to inspire positive change. More than just entertainment, our documentaries, podcasts, films, and other digital media offerings are designed to connect and engage the audience. We are committed to "opening Eyes to a New Vision."

Every Stage, Every Challenge, Every Triumph: Men Talking Prostate Cancer

In this special episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks launches a month-long series in recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Since 2003, when President George W. Bush officially proclaimed September as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the importance of early detection, screening, and understanding risk factors has remained critical.
This episode, titled “Every Stage, Every Challenge, Every Triumph: Men Talking Prostate Cancer”, brings together a panel of men who openly share their prostate cancer journeys—from active surveillance to radiation therapy and surgery. With candid conversations, clear insights, and heartfelt experiences, this program sheds light on the realities of prostate cancer, offering hope, awareness, and encouragement to all who listen.
Tune in for a powerful discussion that underscores the value of knowledge, community, and resilience in the face of prostate cancer.
All episodes are archived on your favorite podcast platforms.  Remember, you can always listen and engage with us at our website, www.ifyouaremybrotherspodcast.com.
To learn more about the If You Are My Brothers, Prostate Cancer Documentary and Community Engagement Project, visit www.ifyouaremybrothers.org.  
If You Are My Brothers is a project of Straight Street Media, a nonprofit media organization that creates thought-provoking projects to inspire positive change. More than just entertainment, our documentaries, podcasts, films, and other digital media offerings are designed to connect and engage the audience. We are committed to "opening Eyes to a New Vision."