Show notes
Take Action: Help Accelerate Progress in Cancer Science and Medicine
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What does it take to survive cancer and still make it to the Olympics in a single year?
In this inspiring episode of Believe in Progress, we sit down with Karlie Kisha: Olympian, papillary thyroid cancer survivor, and an assistant coach for the Villanova University field hockey team. Karlie takes us inside her incredible journey, from her cancer diagnosis just months before the Paris Olympic Games to representing the U.S. on the world stage.
Her story is a masterclass in the power of determination, mindset, and belief in cancer research. Whether you're an athlete, a survivor, or someone in the midst of your own personal challenge, Karlie’s voice will remind you of what’s possible when you face adversity with courage and grace.
Episode Highlights:
Segment 1: Falling in Love with the Game
Karlie shares her early passion for field hockey, her collegiate journey at the University of Connecticut, and how she set her sights on the Olympics.
Segment 2: Diagnosis, Disruption, and Determination
Just months before the Olympics, Karlie was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. She discusses the whirlwind of emotions and the grit it took to keep her Olympic dreams alive.
Segment 3: Recovery and Resilience
From surgery to healing to elite-level competition, Karlie reflects on the physical and mental strength required to bounce back and perform on the sport’s biggest stage.
Segment 4: Coaching, Mentorship, and the Next Chapter
Now an assistant coach at Villanova, Karlie speaks about finding purpose beyond competition and why giving back means everything.
Segment 5: Purpose, Gratitude, and Mental Toughness
Karlie closes with reflections on gratitude, mental health, and how surviving cancer reframed her entire view on life and purpose.
Take Action: Support Cancer Research & Survivors
- Donate to the AACR: Help advance the research that saves lives at https://AACR.org/Give
- Share this episode: Someone in your network needs to hear Karlie’s story, so help us tell it by sharing it with them
- Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Never miss a story that could inspire hope and action, you can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen
Production Credits:
Host: Mitch Stoller
Guest: Karlie Kisha
Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes
Executive Producer: Michael Leary
Director: Anthony Lopes
Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary
Writer: Anthony Lopes
Editor: Michael Leary
Associate Producer: Heather Holland
Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.