50% with Marcylle Combs: Women in Leadership

Hosted by Marcylle Combs

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246

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Oct 2026

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About the show

50% with Marcylle Combs is a podcast for women in leadership, business, and career growth. Each episode features candid conversations with inspiring women leaders who share their journeys, challenges, successes, and lessons learned. Discover practical leadership insights, career advice, and personal development strategies to help you lead with confidence and purpose. Whether you're an emerging leader, entrepreneur, or executive, you'll find encouragement, wisdom, and tools to support your next step. Learn more at www.MarcylleCombs.com

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60 recent

October 21, 2026Episode 24634 min

The Importance of Humor & Inclusivity in Cancer: Megan-Claire Chase

In this powerful Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode, Marcylle sits down with Megan-Claire Chase, also known as “Warrior Megsie,” a nationally recognized breast cancer survivor, advocate, speaker, writer, and storyteller. Megan-Claire was diagnosed with Stage IIA invasive lobular breast cancer at just 39 years old after spending years knowing something was wrong with her body and not feeling fully heard. Her experience became the beginning of a deeper mission: to help patients trust their voices, advocate for better care, and push for more equity in healthcare. Today, Megan-Claire uses her story to lead national conversations around survivorship, patient-centered research, health equity, and representation in clinical trials. She serves as the Breast Cancer Program Director for SHARE Cancer Support and hosts Our BC Life , a podcast that amplifies the voices of breast cancer survivors. In this episode, she and Marcylle talk about what it means to keep using your voice when life gets hard. They discuss the reality of being dismissed in the exam room, the emotional side of survivorship, the importance of asking for support, and why awareness must turn into action. This conversation is honest, moving, and deeply needed. It is a reminder that your story matters. Your instincts matter. And your voice may be the very thing that helps someone else feel less alone. Key Topics Megan-Claire Chase's personal cancer journey Importance of genetic testing and family history Advocacy for diverse representation in clinical trials Impact of healthcare disparities on minority communities The role of humor and positivity in coping with cancer Life on the cancer survivorship train The significance of early detection and listening to your body How storytelling and writing support healing and awareness The importance of community and support networks Strategies for healthcare professionals to improve patient trust Get In Touch With Megan-Claire: Instagram, Twitter (X), Bluesky, and TikTok – @warriormegise Facebook – Megsie Chase LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-claire-chase/

October 14, 2026Episode 24524 min

Trust Your Instincts: Survivor Christine Anastos

Christine G. Anastos spent decades protecting public health as an environmental engineer before becoming a patient herself. After months of advocating for answers, she was diagnosed with breast cancer—an experience that reshaped her purpose and led her to found Connect & Thrive, a public benefit corporation supporting people living with cancer.In this episode, Christine shares her journey from caregiver to patient to advocate. She opens up about self-advocacy, the emotional weight of survivorship, equitable access to care, and the hope that can be found in healing beyond diagnosis. Key Topics Christine's breast cancer journey and diagnosis Environmental factors and their impact on health Navigating the healthcare system effectively Lifestyle and dietary changes for prevention The role of mindset and mental health in healing Use of AI and data in health monitoring Importance of trust but verify in health choices Environmental toxins and regulation differences Small actionable health tips for everyone Get In Touch With Christine: Home - Connect & Thrive (CAT) Christine Anastos |LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

October 14, 2026Episode 24437 min

Breaking Barriers for Women, Patents, and Healthcare Disparities: Lisa Crites

In this episode of 50% with Marcylle Combs , I sit down with Lisa Crites, a breast cancer survivor whose personal journey became the spark for an invention that has helped women all over the world. After her own surgery and recovery, Lisa saw a need that most people would have never noticed — because sometimes the most meaningful solutions are born in the middle of our hardest seasons. Out of that need, she created The Shower Shirt, a water-resistant post-surgical garment designed to help breast cancer patients shower safely and with dignity after surgery. Lisa’s story is one of grit, faith, creativity, and purpose. She reminds us that survivorship is not just about getting through the diagnosis — it is about what we do with the wisdom, compassion, and courage we gain on the other side. In our conversation, Lisa shares what it was like to face breast cancer, how she turned a deeply personal challenge into a practical solution for other women, and why advocacy matters so much for patients who are trying to heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This episode is for every woman who has walked through something hard and wondered if anything good could possibly come from it. Lisa’s answer is a beautiful reminder: yes, it can. In this episode, we talk about: Lisa’s breast cancer journey and recovery experience The moment she realized women needed a better post-surgical showering solution How The Shower Shirt was created The emotional side of healing after breast cancer surgery Why dignity matters in recovery Turning pain into purpose Encouragement for women facing breast cancer today Resources Beautifully Unbroken: A Life-Changing Invention Shower Shirt - Patent and Product Info United States Patent and Trademark Office Patient Innovation Award - University of Portugal AI in Journalism - Cross-Referencing Tips Get In Touch With Lisa: Lisa FCrites - (4) Facebook BeautifullyUnbroken – FB (5) Facebook IG - (2) Instagram www.lisashowershirt.com – Lisa F. Crites |LinkedIn “BeautifullyUnbroken”: A Life-Changing Invention: Born of Loss, Cancer, Courage, andFaith.: CRITES, LISA F.: 9798198812697: Amazon.com: Books

October 7, 2026Episode 24335 min

Creating a Nonprofit for Breast Cancer Support: Laura Carfang

In this episode, Marcylle sits down with Laura Carfang, founder of ⁠SurvivingBreastCancer.org to talk about leadership, survivorship, and what happens when a personal diagnosis becomes the beginning of a much larger mission. Laura was just 34 when she was diagnosed with Stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma after her early symptoms were initially dismissed. Living an active, health-conscious life, she never expected breast cancer to become part of her story. But that experience challenged what she thought she knew about risk, prevention, and the gaps that exist for people navigating life after diagnosis. What began as Laura’s personal search for trustworthy information and meaningful connection grew into SurvivingBreastCancer.org , a national nonprofit digital platform serving individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, their families, and a growing global community. Laura shares how SBC is redefining survivorship as an active, ongoing phase of care—not simply recovery. Through evidence-informed education, moderated community support, integrative oncology–inspired programming, and AI-powered navigation, SBC helps close the gap between clinical treatment and whole-person support. This conversation explores what it means to lead through uncertainty, build something meaningful from adversity, and create access to care, education, and connection beyond the clinic walls. In this episode, we talk about: Laura’s diagnosis at 34 and how it reshaped her understanding of health, leadership, and purpose The gap in survivorship support that led her to create SurvivingBreastCancer.org Why survivorshipis an ongoing phase of care, not a finish line How digital tools, education, and community can remove barriers and expand support What leaders can learn from navigating crisis, uncertainty, and mission-driven work About Laura Carfang: Laura Carfang is the founder of SurvivingBreastCancer.org, a U.S.-based national nonprofit building digital infrastructure for breast cancer survivorship. SBC serves all 50 states and a growing international community by offering credible information, meaningful connection, and whole-person support from diagnosis through long-term survivorship. Learn more: SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources Surviving Breast Cancer Organization San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Get In Touch With Laura: www.survivingbreastcancer.org IG: @survivingbreastcancerorg IG: @laura_carfang TikTok: @sbc_org FB: Survivingbreastcancerorg YouTube: @SurvivingBreastCancer For more information about Marcylle Combs Leadership Series, and how to register go to marcyllecombs.com

October 1, 2026Episode 2426 min

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Every October, Marcylle and Deantha dedicate this month of episodes to Breast Cancer Awareness. As a survivor herself, Marcylle chooses to take this time to honor the professionals, the survivors and their families. Thank you for listening. Here is the link to the Marcylle Combs Leadership Series

September 30, 2026Episode 24133 min

Small Steps to Big Success with Dr. Christiane Schroeter

In this episode of 50% with Marcylle Combs, Marcylle sits down with Dr. Christiane Schroeter, a TEDx speaker, Fulbright Scholar, professor, bestselling author, and creator of Petite Practice®. Christiane shares how small, steady steps can create real momentum in leadership, life, and personal growth. With a background in applied economics and years of experience teaching thousands of professionals and students, she brings a research-backed approach to change that feels practical, sustainable, and refreshingly doable. Together, Marcylle and Christiane talk about confidence, reinvention, women in leadership, and why meaningful growth does not have to come from dramatic transformation. This conversation is a reminder that the next right step may be smaller than you think, but repeated with intention, it can lead to lasting change. Of course we also talk the impact of AI, and cultural differences in women’s careers across countries. Discover practical strategies for personal growth, marketing, and embracing change. Key Topics The power of small, consistent steps in achieving goals Using AI to enhance authenticity and connection Cultural differences in women’s career paths between Germany and the US The purple cow marketing strategy for standing out The importance of reflection and pausing in habit formation Get In Touch with Christiane: Resources Petite Practice by Dr. Christiane Schroeter The Purple Cow by Seth Godin Dr. Christiane Schroeter's Website Guest links ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Website⁠ Click Here For Information on the Marcylle Combs Leadership Series

September 23, 2026Episode 24038 min

Unlocking the Secrets of Sleep with Tara Youngblood

Tara Youngblood shares expert insights on sleep, debunking myths, and practical tips to improve sleep quality for better health and productivity. She has spent well over a decade researching the science of sleep, particularly how temperature affects sleep quality, recovery, and overall health. Her background combines physics, engineering, sleep diagnostics, and integrative health. She has been involved in developing patented sleep technologies and has become a recognized speaker on sleep optimization, recovery, and wellness. Dr. Tara Youngblood is a clinical psychologist, and internationally recognized sleep scientist. As the Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer of Geli Sleep, she has dedicated more than 10,000 hours to sleep research and holds more than 50 patents in sleep technology. Known as the "Sleep Geek," Dr. Youngblood is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author of Reprogram Your Sleep, and a leading voice in functional and holistic health focusing on restorative sleep and women’s health. She combines scientific rigor with a deeply personal mission to help people optimize their health through better sleep. Resources Jelly Sleep - Mattresses and Pillows Youngblood Coaching Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg Sleep Science Research Get In Touch With Tara: Instagram Website Also affiliated with the websites gelisleep.com and t2consulting.co

September 16, 2026Episode 23911 min

Medicaid Financial Considerations and Eligibility: Damon Terzaghi

Part 2 of the micro cast conversation on Medicaid for Aging Parents. Damon Terzaghi shares his extensive knowledge on Medicaid, covering its national framework, state variations, eligibility criteria, and planning strategies for families. This conversation is essential for anyone navigating long-term care options for aging loved ones. Key Topics Financial considerations and asset limits Planning strategies for families The importance of early planning and professional advice Resources ⁠Title XIX of the Social Security Act⁠ ⁠CMS - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services⁠ ⁠Medicaid Planning and Asset Protection Strategies⁠ Damon Terzaghi has spent his career working in programs that support older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families. Currently, Damon is Vice President of Medicaid Advocacy and Programs at the National Alliance for Care at Home. In this role, Damon is responsible for leading the Association’s Medicaid practice, including establishing regulatory, legislative, and technical assistance priorities; providing information and analysis to members regarding issues in Medicaid that impact Homecare, Hospice, and HCBS; and developing the organization’s resource library. Prior to the Alliance, he has served as: · Senior Director at ADvancing States, the association representing state government aging, disability, and long-term services and supports agencies. · Vice President for the Marwood Group LLC. · Health Insurance Specialist for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). · Senior Policy Associate for the National Association of State Medicaid Directors. · Operations and Policy Analyst for the Oregon Department of Human Services. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, and a Master of Science in Public Health Administration from Trinity University in Washington DC. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Services Research from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Damon lives in Arlington, VA, with his wife, two poorly-behaved dogs, and three equally poorly-behaved children.

September 9, 2026Episode 23810 min

Navigating Medicaid for Aging Parents: Damon Terzaghi

In this episode, Medicaid expert, Damon Terzaghi, shares his extensive knowledge on Medicaid, covering its national framework, state variations, eligibility criteria, and planning strategies for families. This conversation is essential for anyone navigating long-term care options for aging loved ones. Key Topics Medicaid's national framework and state variations Eligibility criteria and assessment tools Resources Title XIX of the Social Security Act CMS - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicaid Planning and Asset Protection Strategies Damon Terzaghi has spent his career working in programs that support older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families. Currently, Damon is Vice President of Medicaid Advocacy and Programs at the National Alliance for Care at Home. In this role, Damon is responsible for leading the Association’s Medicaid practice, including establishing regulatory, legislative, and technical assistance priorities;providing information and analysis to members regarding issues in Medicaid that impact Homecare, Hospice, and HCBS; and developing the organization’s resource library. Prior to the Alliance, he has served as: · Senior Director at ADvancing States, the association representing state government aging, disability, and long-term services and supports agencies. · Vice President for the Marwood Group LLC. · Health Insurance Specialist for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). · Senior Policy Associate for the National Association of State Medicaid Directors. · Operations and Policy Analyst for the Oregon Department of Human Services. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from WillametteUniversity in Salem, Oregon, and a Master of Science in Public Health Administration from Trinity University in Washington DC. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Services Research from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Damon lives in Arlington, VA, with his wife, two poorly-behaved dogs, and three equally poorly-behaved children.

September 1, 2026Episode 23732 min

Building a Community of Women Travelers: Amanda Black

Amanda shares her inspiring journey from solo traveler to successful founder of a women-focused travel community. Discover her insights on building community, vetting travelers, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. An entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Solo Female Traveler Network, the largest global community of women who travel solo. Designs connection-focused group adventures around the world and helps women build confidence and belonging through shared experiences. Key topics Amanda's journey from traveler to founder Building and vetting a women travel community Creating unique travel experiences and retreats Challenges and rewards of travel entrepreneurship Insights on traveling to less accessible destinations Get In Touch With Amanda: The Solo Female Traveler Network Amanda's Instagram Amanda's Facebook Group Personal site: https://meetamandablack.com/ Personal IG: @mandeeleighbee

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