The If You Are My Brothers Podcast

PSA Screening 2026 — New Rules & What Men Must Know

For years, men have heard mixed messages about PSA screening: test, don’t test, it causes harm, it saves lives. The confusion has led too many men—especially Black men—to tune out completely.
In this powerful and informative episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks sits down with leading urologist Dr. Stacy Loeb to cut through the noise and bring clarity to one of the most important conversations in men’s health.
This episode is about moving from confusion to clarity—and from awareness to action.
What You’ll Learn
What PSA really measures—and why it’s still critical
Why prostate cancer often has no early symptoms
The truth behind PSA controversy and how guidelines have changed
When men should start screening—and why Black men should begin at age 40
Why PSA is like a “check engine light” for your body
How modern tools (MRI, blood & urine tests) are reducing unnecessary biopsies
What to do if your PSA is rising or fluctuating
Lifestyle changes that can reduce prostate cancer risk and improve overall health
RESOURCE BOX: Take Action for Better Prostate Health
These trusted resources from the episode that can help you move from awareness to action
Nutrition & Lifestyle
Whole-Foods, Plant-Based EatingFocus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds while reducing red meat, processed foods, and dairy.
Guided Support
Rochester Lifestyle Medicine Institutehttps://rochesterlifestylemedicine.org
Virtual Jumpstart Programs
Physician-led coaching and support
Nutrition, stress management, and behavior change
Meal Planning
Purple Carrot https://www.purplecarrot.com
Plant-based meal delivery
Free recipes available online
Beginner-friendly
Eating Healthy Anywhere
HappyCow https://www.happycow.net
Find plant-based meals worldwide
Ideal for travel and dining out
Learn More
Men’s Health Show
SiriusXM Channel 110Wednesdays | 6–8 PM ET
Live call-in format
Prostate health Q&A
  Lifestyle Checklist
✔ Eat more whole, plant-based foods✔ Exercise 150 minutes/week + strength training✔ Prioritize sleep✔ Manage stress✔ Avoid smoking
Support the Mission
If You Are My Brothers is dedicated to turning awareness into health action.
Support:👉 https://ifyouaremybrothers.org
 Stay Connected
👍 Like | 🔁 Share | 🔔 Subscribe🌐 https://ifyouaremybrothers.org
 Disclaimer:This podcast is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.
 
 

Strong For Him: Partners Behind the Prostate Cancer Journey

What does prostate cancer look like from the other side?
In this deeply moving episode, host Reggie Hicks brings together a group of women whose lives were forever changed by a diagnosis they didn’t receive—but had to live through every day.
From shock and fear to faith and resilience, these women open up about:
Navigating life after diagnosis
Supporting their partners emotionally and physically
Facing the unspoken realities of caregiving
Redefining intimacy and connection
Finding strength through faith
This conversation is a reminder that prostate cancer is not just his fight—it’s a shared journey.
Episode Highlights
Early detection saved lives
Caregivers often carry silent burdens
Faith plays a central role in healing and endurance
Relationships evolve—but love deepens
Powerful Quotes
“The journey is worth the fight.”
“I cried in silence so he could be strong.”
“Praying together is the highest form of intimacy.”
About the Podcast
The If You Are My Brothers Podcast is part of a national prostate cancer awareness and community engagement initiative designed to move men—and their families—from health awareness to health action.
Support the Work
Learn more, donate, and join the movement:👉 www.ifyouaremybrothers.org

Clinical trials, medical trust, and prostate cancer—what every man needs to know

When many people hear the words clinical trials, history, and mistrust come to mind. But at the same time, diseases like prostate cancer continue to impact men every day — and research remains one of the most powerful tools we have to improve outcomes. In this important conversation, host Reggie Hicks — prostate cancer survivor and founder of If You Are My Brothers — is joined by Dr. Monica Webb Hooper, Acting Director of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Together, they explore the legacy of medical mistrust, modern research protections, and why participation in clinical trials is essential — especially for Black men facing higher rates of prostate cancer.
🔎 In This Episode
✔ How the Tuskegee Study still influences perceptions of medical research
✔ Common misconceptions about clinical trials (including placebo concerns)
✔ Why underrepresentation in prostate cancer research persists
✔ The importance of asking questions and being your own health advocate ✔ What “informed consent” really means today
✔ The role of trust, transparency, and community engagement in rebuilding confidence
✔ How to find clinical trials in your area
✔ Why research participation is not just a “last resort.”
✔ The psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis — and why bringing someone to appointments matters
💬 Key Takeaways
Modern clinical trials are tightly regulated and monitored for safety.
Participants are never left without a standard of care in cancer treatment trials.
Underrepresentation is often about access and invitation, not simply hesitation.
Trust must be earned through transparency and community engagement.
Black men do participate in research — and their involvement is essential to advancing equitable care.
Clinical trials power medical progress for future generations.
📌 For more information about clinical trials and helpful resources, visit:
https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials/what-are-clinical-trials
https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials-search
or call 1-800-4-CANCER
Learn more about the work conducted and led by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities www.nimhd.gov
💙 A Personal Note from Reggie Reggie shares an update on his own prostate cancer journey, including recent PSA results and reflections on the anxiety many men experience while waiting for test results. His message is clear: Know your PSA. Ask questions. Don’t go through it alone.
🎯 Call to Action -If this episode helped you, share it with a brother, father, son, friend, or colleague.
-Visit www.IfYouAreMyBrothers.org to learn more about the documentary, community engagement efforts, and ways to support the mission.
🔔 Reminder: This podcast is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your personal health decisions.

How CCRTD Is Advancing Prostate Cancer Research at Clark Atlanta University

Prostate cancer research at Clark Atlanta University is advancing treatment and advancing health equity. In this Black History Month special, we spotlight the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development (CCRTD) and its Executive Director, Dr. Jaideep Chaudhary.
In this episode of If You Are My Brothers Podcast, host Reggie Hicks explores how CCRTD is advancing prostate cancer research, addressing health disparities, improving drug development, and engaging the community to drive better outcomes for African American men. Prostate cancer disproportionately impacts Black men.
CCRTD’s mission focuses on:
Understanding cancer metastasis
Improving treatment strategies
Using AI and big data in cancer research
Training the next generation of cancer scientists
Community-driven prostate cancer awareness
Dr. Chaudhary explains the drug development pipeline, the importance of PSA screening, and how early detection reduces mortality by nearly 50%.
This Black History Month edition, we honor institutions and leaders shaping the future of cancer research and health equity.
📌 Learn more about CCRTD’s work at Clark Atlanta University
📌 Subscribe and share this Black History Month special
 

One Line, One Fight: Brothers Facing Prostate Cancer Together

What are the odds that four men from the same pledge line would all face prostate cancer? In this powerful and deeply personal episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks is joined by three of his line brothers—Eric Chaney, Tony Liggett, and Frank “Frankie J.” Purnell—members of the Zeta Pi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at the University of Georgia who pledged together in 1976. Decades after college, their brotherhood was tested again by the same diagnosis: prostate cancer.
Together, these men share their individual journeys—from diagnosis and treatment decisions to side effects, survivorship, and the emotional realities men rarely discuss. They talk candidly about PSA testing, active surveillance, radiation therapy, hormone treatment, incontinence, intimacy, and the importance of being your own health advocate. This is more than a conversation about cancer—it’s a call to action for men, especially Black men, to know their numbers, talk openly, and look out for one another. Brotherhood didn’t end at graduation—and in this case, it helped save lives.
🔔 If this episode resonates, please like, subscribe, and share it with a brother, father, son, or friend.
🎙️ Featured Guests:
Eric Chaney – Prostate cancer survivor navigating treatment decisions
Tony "T" Liggett – Survivor of aggressive prostate cancer and advocate for education
 Frank “Frankie J.” Purnell – Survivor emphasizing vigilance and family history
Learn more & support the mission: 👉 https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Early detection saves lives—know your PSA number
Men must talk openly about prostate cancer
Brotherhood and support matter during survivorship
Treatment decisions should be informed and personalized
Life after prostate cancer is real—and manageable
Support the Mission If You Are My Brothers is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) project of Straight Street Media, turning prostate cancer awareness into health action.
Visit 👉 https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org to:
Explore the documentary & podcast series
Support community engagement efforts
Help save lives through education and conversation

Prostate Cancer Surgery Explained: Robotic & Minimally Invasive Options

When a man hears the words “you have prostate cancer,” fear and uncertainty often follow. In this powerful and informative episode, host Reggie Hicks sits down with Dr. Rajesh Laungani, a board-certified urologist and Director of Minimally Invasive & Robotic Urology at Piedmont Hospital, to break down what prostate cancer surgery really looks like today. From robotic prostatectomy to minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Laungani explains how modern surgery has evolved, what men should realistically expect during recovery, and how to separate medical facts from fear-driven misinformation. This conversation is honest, empowering, and designed to help men make informed decisions about their health.
 
⏱️ WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
What robotic prostate cancer surgery actually involves
The difference between open surgery vs. minimally invasive approaches
 Recovery timelines for continence and sexual function
Why not all prostate cancers require surgery
How surgeon experience impacts outcomes
Questions every man should ask before choosing surgery
Why early detection saves lives—especially for Black men
 KEY TAKEAWAYS
Prostate cancer is not one disease—treatment should be individualized
Robotic surgery dramatically reduces blood loss, pain, and recovery time
Cancer control, urinary control, and sexual function are all achievable goals
Education and honest conversations are critical to men’s health outcomes
 
📣 IMPORTANT REMINDERS ⚠️
This podcast is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.
🔗 LEARN MORE & GET INVOLVED
🌐 Visit: ifyouaremybrothers.org 🎧
🤝 Support the nonprofit mission of If You Are My Brothers
👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔁 Share with a brother, father, son, or friend

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.
🔔 Stay Connected 👉 Subscribe to our channel 👉 Share this episode with a loved one 👉 Leave a comment with your questions — we may feature them on an upcoming show 👉 Follow us on social media for updates and resources
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
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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