The CROC Podcast is a regularly scheduled program hosted by Dr. Thomas Eanelli whose sole purpose is to support cancer survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph.” Welcome to the CROC Podcast… A Podcast for Cancer Survivors by Cancer Survivors. I look forward to our Journey…
Today we’re revisiting S4Ep147: Meeting Your Oncologist — What Should You Expect? Your first oncology appointment can feel like a first date—full of questions, nerves, and uncertainty. Angel and Dr. E will help you know what you deserve, what to ask, and what to do if you’re not being heard. Summary In this episode of the Croc Podcast, the hosts delve into the often-daunting experience of meeting an oncologist for the first time. They liken the initial consultation to a first date, filled with nerves and uncertainty, and emphasize the importance of understanding what patients deserve during this critical time. The discussion highlights the need for compassionate care, effective communication, and a supportive environment, urging listeners to advocate for themselves and not settle for less than they deserve in their healthcare experience. The hosts also introduce upcoming guests, including a cancer doula and a healthcare policy expert, promising insightful discussions in future episodes. Keywords oncologist appointment, cancer care, patient advocacy, healthcare experience, Croc Podcast Takeaways Your first oncology appointment can feel like a first date. You deserve more than just basic care; advocate for yourself. The environment of a healthcare facility significantly impacts patient experience. Compassionate communication is key in patient-doctor relationships. Don't settle for less; demand the care you deserve. Titles Navigating Your First Oncology Appointment: What You Deserve Meeting Your Oncologist: A Guide to Your First Consultation Sound bites "Your first visit with your oncologist is sort of like a first date." "You deserve a lot more than you actually think." "If you received everything that I said that you're deserving of, then the answer is yes." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Croc Podcast and Episode Overview 10:22 The First Oncology Appointment: Expectations and Desires 38:15 Empowerment and Advocacy in Cancer Care
1/18/26 • 44:04
In the bright, chaotic hum of an emergency room, Dr. E finds a patient named Charles more devastated by disconnection than disease—their phone is dead; their anchors are gone. What follows is a quiet, human moment: a rushed trip, a full charge, and a returned phone that lights up more than a screen. That single act becomes a lifeline. With the phone, Charles gathers his family, makes a final decision about care, and says goodbye. The episode traces this intimate arc—setup, tender action, and the powerful, lasting consequences of a small kindness. Through narrative, research, and reflection, hosts Dr. E and Angel Santana explore how tiny gestures restore dignity, shift culture, and ripple through healthcare. Listen to a story that proves compassion doesn’t need grand gestures—just presence, connection, and a willingness to be human.
1/11/26 • 17:43
New Year’s Resolutions Revisited REWIND EPISODE As we take a brief pause for the holiday weekend, we’re bringing back an important conversation that many of us need to hear—especially at the start of a new year. Every January, as the ball drops in Times Square, millions of people make promises to themselves to finally change everything at once. And just as often, those resolutions fade, leaving behind frustration, guilt, and added pressure. For our Survivor/Thrivers, that pressure can be overwhelming. In this Rewind Episode, Angel and Dr. E revisit the idea of New Year’s resolutions through a healthier, more compassionate lens. Over the next two weeks, they share practical guidance on how to set realistic, meaningful goals—resolutions that are durable, achievable, and rooted in grace rather than stress.
1/4/26 • 29:00
REWIND Episode Happy New Year Everyone! all new Episode NEXT WEEK Angels Of Mercy Part 1 Everyone involved in healthcare, whether from the Caretakers or Caregivers prospective, knows the value and irreplaceable necessity of great nursing care. But what rarely gets noticed are the innumerable acts of compassion that happen everyday that go unseen and unnoticed; that is until today! Please join Angel and Dr E give credit to these healthcare superheroes!!!
12/28/25 • 23:15
S4Ep:181 Miracles of Faith: Mary's Unbeatable Journey Join Dr. E and Angel as they recount the extraordinary and inspiring journey of Mary a true survivor. This Christmas special episode delves into Mary's battles with two of the most daunting cancers, exploring themes of hope, courage, and miraculous endurance. Despite overwhelming odds and dire prognoses, Mary defies the grim expectations, embodying strength and faith. Reflect on the miracles of Christmas as Mary's story becomes a beacon of hope for all cancer Survivors, reminding us that while the battle against disease is tough, the human spirit is tougher. Embrace this heartfelt narrative, which celebrates resilience and the power of never losing faith, even in the face of life's toughest challenges.
12/21/25 • 20:48
Welcome to the Croc Podcast with Dr. E and Angel Santana. In this episode, they explain the SPIKES protocol for breaking bad news and introduce Dr. E’s approach of guarded optimism — balancing honest, clear medical communication with empathy and hope. The hosts offer practical tips for clinicians on creating safe spaces, assessing patients’ understanding and emotions, and delivering news in ways that support survivors and their communities.
12/17/25 • 23:38
Ep90: If One More Person Wishes Me A Merry Christmas, I'm Going to Scream!!!! The Holiday Season is supposed to be filled with joy and love and hope; a time of togetherness with family and friends; a time for new beginnings and new resolutions. But what if you not only feel no joy, but actually feel depressed, hopeless, and alone? Maybe you've just been diagnosed, or perhaps you're suffering the side effects of your treatments, or maybe you've been given bad news, or just maybe you've lost a loved one to cancer, and their absence at the holiday table is just too much to bear. Fear not brave friends, Angel and Dr E are here you to deliver some comfort.
12/14/25 • 33:07
In this Rewind episode of The Croc Podcast, Dr. E and Angel revisit conversations about physicians criticizing colleagues in front of patients and the growing lack of empathy and follow-through when survivor thrivers are referred to outside specialists. They share real cases, explain responsibilities for referring and specialist doctors, and offer five clear rules to improve care: always care, use redundant follow-up systems, choose trustworthy colleagues, advocate for yourself, and keep the primary care physician involved.
12/7/25 • 38:26
In this episode, Dr. Eanelli and co-host Angel Santana explore the damaging practice of physicians criticizing other physicians in front of patients. Using authentic clinic vignettes and research, they explain how such comments harm teamwork, increase patient confusion, distress, and even worsen outcomes. The hosts review four common scenarios, discuss why clinicians sometimes engage in this behavior, and offer clear solutions for patients and providers — including how patients can advocate for themselves and how clinicians can communicate professionally, empathetically, and through direct collegial contact.
11/30/25 • 31:49
Dr. E and co-host Angel Santana mark 26 years of grassroots cancer support of CROC Organization and 5 Years of The CROC PODCAST in a Thanksgiving special that centers on restoring humanity to healing. Through personal stories, the “black moleskin” practice, and reflections on survivorship, the episode explores why understanding the person behind the patient is essential for proper healing. This episode offers practical insight for practitioners and hopes for survivors—highlighting the podcast’s mission to honor, advocate for, and learn from those living with and beyond cancer.
11/16/25 • 16:16
🎙️ Croc Podcast Special Announcement Hello everyone! We wanted to let you know that this week’s Croc Podcast will be airing on a special new day — Wednesday, November 12th, at 9:00 a.m. Dr. E has been handling some unexpected administrative duties, so we’ll be postponing today’s episode and rescheduling it for this Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. We appreciate you're understanding and support! In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the rest of your Sunday—spend it with your family, recharge, and remember: 💚 The Croc Podcast — Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer — is not just a podcast. It’s a movement. And this week… we’re moving to Wednesday!
11/9/25 • 00:59
Ep8: Defining Survivorship Module 6 - Cancer survivorship past, present, and future What better way to end this tremendously informative module on defining survivorship than with Dr. Charles Shapiro professor of medicine Mount Sinai medical center; one of the pioneers of cancer survivor advocacy and a legacy level clinician in breast cancer and translational medicine. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #TheCROCPodcast #BreastCancerAwareness #DrCharlesShapiro #BreastCancerSurvivor #CancerSurvivorship #BreastCancerResearch #CancerAdvocacy #CancerSupportCommunity #EarlyDetectionSavesLives #PinkRibbon #NotJustAPodcastAMovement #SurvivorsAndThrivers #HopeHealingCourage #FaithOverFear #StrongerTogether #TurningTragedyIntoTriumph #CROCFamily #WeAreCROC #SupportTheSurvivor #JoinTheMovement
10/26/25 • 37:11
Any Port in A Storm The expression “any port in a storm” refers to ancient Maritime Law stating that any vessel caught in a storm can find safe harbor in any port; whether the port be friendly or hostile. In a way our survivors are very much like these ships caught in a storm; especially before they meet their cancer team at the time of consultation. The question is will you provide the safe harbor our survivors need by building a rapport, creating trust, instilling confidence, and laying out a coordinated and successful plan, so they leave your “harbor” to sail the calm and protected waters of survivorship.
10/12/25 • 27:14
I Believe in Miracles Joanne’s Journey of Hope When we think about the concept of miracles, we immediately think of something grand, like the parting of the Red Sea. But there are many small miracles that surround us on a daily basis that often go unnoticed. On today’s podcast Angel and Dr. E discuss a patient’s miraculous journey to cure from what many thought was an incurable and stigmatized illness. #CancerSurvivor #CancerJourney #LifeAfterCancer #CancerAwareness #HealingTogether #IBelieveInMiracles #JourneyOfHope #HopeAndHealing #MiracleStories #StrengthInHope #TheCROCPodcast #NotJustAPodcastAMovement #SurvivorStories #TogetherWeFight #CROCCommunity
9/28/25 • 24:08
Jive Talking & Other Slangs as a Way to Connect & Communicate with Survivor/Thrivers Traditional medical training teaches formality and distance; and discourages the use of language that is understandable, comfortable and brings us closer to our patients. On today’s podcast Dr. E tells a story of a patient who taught him how important it is to use not just formal training but also personal and cultural experience to better connect and develop trust.
9/14/25 • 25:03
Back Sept 14 with Dr. E — Stay Connected to Croc Nation Hello everyone, this is Angel Santana, co-host and producer of The Croc Podcast. September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness for leukemia, lymphoma, and melanoma and to emphasize education, early detection, and support for those affected. We don't have a new episode this week, but we'll be back Sunday, September 14 with Dr. E in studio. Stay connected with us on social media and at crocvip.com to learn more about our mission. Thank you, Croc Nation — we're more than a podcast; we're a movement.
9/7/25 • 01:41
Today The CROC Podcast will continue on with part 2 of last week's episode called Defining Survivorship Module 1 Ep 2. Today we talk about Defining Survivorship Seasons of Survival Module 2 Ep 3. We referenced article from the New England Journal of Medicine from 1985 Vol. 313 pages 270-273. Last week we introduced you to Dr. Fitzhugh Mullan who was an American physician, writer, educator, and social activist. He participated in the founding of the Student Health Organization, the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, Seed Global Health, and the Beyond Flexner Alliance. We will have in studio Greer Cooper a Cancer Survivor will also be in studio to provide us with her experience and description of Cancer Survivorship. Introducing The CROC Podcast. I want you to forget everything about your cancer! I want you to start with a blank slate. CROC is a not so much a thing but rather a movement for survivors to gather, to learn, to be nourished and to connect and for a brief moment, forget about the future and focus on the now! In 1999, I tried an experiment based on my observation of the interactions between my patients. I took a leap a faith and started something who's power to soothe, who's potential to cure, and who's capacity to find light in darkness, joy in sorrow, laughter in fear was completely unexpected. Together we turned tragedy into triumph. Welcome to the CROC Podcast with Dr. Tom Eanelli... I look forward to our Journey... Peace. CROC gratitude shout outs Angel Santana - https://www.spreaker.com/show/have-faith-let-it-begin-introduction Rod Freeman - https://www.SmallBizUp.com Charlotte Larsen - http://www.charlottelarsen.net/ Michael Benzaia - https://www.michaeljohnbenzaia.com/ http://www.crocvip.com/ https://twitter.com/CrocVip https://www.facebook.com/CROCVIP
8/31/25 • 28:13
The Cancer Rollercoaster-The Ups & Downs & All Arounds I can’t tell you how many times a Survivor-Thriver has told me how their journey with cancer is like being on a roller coaster. Lately, with summer here- county fairs and boardwalk rides- I am surrounded by rollercoasters and thought how fitting it would be to do a podcast on this exact analogy, but not in my words, but theirs!
8/17/25 • 21:17
Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Secondary Cancers But Were Afraid To Ask If having cancer wasn’t hard enough, between the fear of recurrence and the pain and inconvenience of post-treatment side effects, our brave Survivor/Thrivers also have to traverse the treacherous minefield of possibly getting a secondary tumor. This week, Angel and Dr. E take a deep dive into this complex and confusing world to bring you the latest data, clarify the risk factors, and provide guidance on what to look for, arming you with the information you need to stay ahead of the potentially devastating consequences of enduring this double whammy.
8/3/25 • 28:43
EP1 The Waiting Room: How many times does your doctor enter the waiting area? You know why doctors don't go to the waiting room...Check out today's first episode of the CROC Podcast. Together we turned tragedy into triumph. Welcome to the CROC Podcast with Dr. Tom Eanelli... I look forward to our Journey... Peace.
7/21/25 • 23:09
Top Ten Reasons Why Cancer Survivors Don’t Take Vacation and Top 10 Reasons Why They Should As we ease into the warmth and light of summer, our dreams and fantasies of packing up and getting “away from it all” begin to take form and come true. We make our plans without worry or consequence. But our sacred and worthy Survivor/Thrivers, who not only deserve but also need this break, often pass on these life-affirming and necessary vacations. This week, Angel and Dr. E investigate the reasons why our survivors do not take time for themselves, and the reasons why they not only should, but absolutely must.
7/6/25 • 25:04
Savor Every Patient Encounter Like It’s Your Last We often preach about “Mindfulness” and “Living in the Moment” here on the CROC Podcast, but do we follow our own advice? I recently noticed a trend where I would be physically sitting in a room with a patient, but my mind was elsewhere. Sometimes I would be thinking about the next patient, my next task, or perhaps something unrelated to my job. That realization did not sit well with me so this podcast is directed explicitly toward how important it is to appreciate and cherish and savor every opportunity I get to take care of someone who has gifted me the greatest gift: the gift of trusting me with their life, which deserves 100 percent of my attention and focus.
6/24/25 • 25:22
Savor Every Patient Encounter Like It’s Your Last We often preach about “Mindfulness” and “Living in the Moment” here on the CROC Podcast, but do we follow our own advice? I recently noticed a trend where I would be physically sitting in a room with a patient, but my mind was elsewhere. Sometimes I would be thinking about the next patient, my next task, or perhaps something unrelated to my job. That realization did not sit well with me so this podcast is directed explicitly toward how important it is to appreciate and cherish and savor every opportunity I get to take care of someone who has gifted me the greatest gift: the gift of trusting me with their life, which deserves 100 percent of my attention and focus.
6/24/25 • 25:22
Savor Every Patient Encounter Like It’s Your Last We often preach about “Mindfulness” and “Living in the Moment” here on the CROC Podcast, but do we follow our own advice? I recently noticed a trend where I would be physically sitting in a room with a patient, but my mind was elsewhere. Sometimes I would be thinking about the next patient, my next task, or perhaps something unrelated to my job. That realization did not sit well with me so this podcast is directed explicitly toward how important it is to appreciate and cherish and savor every opportunity I get to take care of someone who has gifted me the greatest gift: the gift of trusting me with their life, which deserves 100 percent of my attention and focus.
6/22/25 • 25:22
Do You Realize the Trauma You Are Asking Your Staff to Endure? Did you ever ask yourself what type of person becomes a healthcare worker? What type of person has the capacity and ability to take care of sick people? This week, Angel and Dr. E explore exactly how special our healthcare team is and how we need to identify and recognize the amount of trauma that our coworkers and friends have to endure on behalf of our Survivor/Thrivers; and how this bond of trauma also connects us to our patients!
6/8/25 • 18:34
For Whom The Bell Tolls The Bell Tolls For Thee As Cancer Providers, we labor tirelessly in supporting our survivors and thrivers, both through our treatments and our advocacy. In this advocacy, we offer hope, confidence, and peace. But how legitimate are our words when we haven’t had to experience the horror of cancer personally? This week, Angel and Dr E welcome friend and colleague David Garcia, who had to recently take a walk in the shoes of our patients with his cancer diagnosis. Please join us as we honor our Survivor/Thriver/Providers!
6/1/25 • 32:56
Today, we pause to pay tribute to all the brave men and women who have served and are still serving. God Bless You and God Bless America!
5/25/25 • 03:11
Croc Nation was honored to be a part of Navigating Cancer Together. Here is the episode that aired this past week Enjoy! Talaya, On the Other Side|5/14/2025 Are you or a loved one facing a diagnosis of bladder cancer, melanoma, or skin cancer? Tune in to this essential episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER for expert guidance and compassionate insights. Join host Talaya Dendy as she welcomes back Dr. Thomas Eanelli, a highly respected radiation oncologist based in New York. We also feature Angel Santana, co-host of The CROC Podcast, sharing powerful motivational perspectives. In observance of May Cancer Awareness, this special episode dives into critical aspects of three specific cancers: bladder, melanoma, and skin cancer. Dr. Eanelli provides invaluable medical expertise on the latest cancer treatments, diagnosis, and management of these diseases. Angel Santana offers heartfelt inspiration and emphasizes the power of support and positivity throughout the cancer journey. This episode is packed with vital information and moving stories to offer hope and guidance for anyone navigating cancer. 🗓️Be sure to tune into a special episode on Wednesday, June 4th, in honor of National Cancer Survivor Month! 📣Call to Action 1: Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist ✨Highlights from the show: 03:59 The CROC Podcast: Mission & Impact 13:20 Deep Dive: Bladder Cancer Awareness 24:42 Understanding Melanoma & Skin Cancer Types 28:58 Why Dermatologists Are Crucial 31:07 Recognizing Skin Cancer Signs & Symptoms 45:32 The Lollipop Story: The Power of Compassionate Patient Care Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript165 Connect & Engage with Dr. E. & Angel: Website: https://www.crocvip.com CROC Podcast: https://www.crocvip.com/podcasts/all-episodes/ Have Faith Let It Begin Podcast: https://havefaithletitbegin.com Sponsor: Lois Dendy, beautiful mother of Talaya, https://www.ontheotherside.life/a-phenomenal-mother 📣Call to Action 2: Navigating Cancer TOGETHER is an independent podcast. To keep the episodes coming and support the show, consider buying me a cup of 🍵green tea at https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast Host: Talaya Dendy Producer: Talaya Dendy Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy Writer: Talaya Dendy Editor: Talaya Dendy 💜Love this podcast? Share it! Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
5/18/25 • 51:11
S5 Ep:192 Navigating the Uncertainties of Medicine Part II Welcome to another episode of the CROC Podcast, hosted by Dr. E and his spiritual warrior Angel. After a brief hiatus, we're diving into a heartfelt discussion about navigating life's uncertainties, particularly in the realm of medicine and cancer survivorship. Dr. E catches up with Angel as they explore stories of resilience, courage, and the unpredictable nature of medical diagnoses. This episode highlights the emotional journey of survivors and emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty as an inherent part of life. Through the story of Janine, a patient confronted with a daunting medical report, we explore the challenges of interpreting medical uncertainties and the need to support each other on this path. Join us as we share insights on how to stand firm in the face of uncertainty and empower yourself with hope and positivity. Don't miss this Mother's Day special, dedicated to all survivor-thrivers, physicians, caregivers, and moms everywhere. Listen in and embrace the courage to face life's mysteries with strength and resilience.
5/11/25 • 18:09
I Believe in Miracles Part 3 In this final podcast of a triplet series, we are joined by one of our favorite Survivor/Thriver friends and colleagues, Talaya Dendy, who gives us an update on her Cancer Doula practice, podcast, and personal journey, as well as shares a story of hope and inspiration from one of her friends who was told that she only had six months to live; and that was approximately one decade ago!
4/27/25 • 30:55
