Grounded in Groundshot is a series of conversations hosted by Dr. Bishal Gyawali and the BG Lab.
The podcast’s namesake is in reference to Dr. Gyawali’s Cancer Groundshot philosophy. In this series, we will get to know the human side of giants in the field of oncology, and get to explore the human qualities that make them who they are. Each guest represents someone who inspires Dr. Gyawali, and is helping shape the future of cancer care.
As education and inspiration are fundamental pillars of BG Lab, whether you are a trainee, a senior oncologist, researcher, or someone with a lived experience of cancer, these conversations aim to uplift and inspire you to do exceptional things!
Episodes
EPISODE 4: IAN TANNOCK
BG is joined by Dr. Ian Tannock, Emeritus Professor of Medicine and Medical Biophysics from the University of Toronto and Princess Margaret Cancer Center. In this episode we discuss how Prof. Tannock started his career in oncology (4:40), how he then became a clinical trialist (14:12), cancer of the “great toe” (19:45), the Canadian mitoxantrone–prednisone trial (26:00), TAX-327 (32:00), experiences as a mentor (38:00), the role of industry in medical writing (39:30), Prof. Tannock’s optimism about the future of clinical trials (42:18), financial conflicts of interest (46:00), advice to fellows (48:30), what makes a good mentor (50:55), Prof. Tannock’s “evil red pen”, and more (56:00)!
EPISODE 3: CHRISTOPHER JACKSON
BG is joined by Dr. Christopher Jackson, Professor of Oncology from Otago University. In this episode, we discuss evidence-based medicine vs embracing uncertainty (6:45), dealing with people you disagree with (10:29), what motivated Dr. Jackson to pursue medicine and implementation science (16:53), rapid-fire questions: kids, best friends, mountains, and being the world’s #1 CrossFit athlete (in the right-handed, middle-aged, oncologist, intermediate, southern South Island of New Zealand division) (26:37), generalists vs specialists (29:59), patient advocacy groups and cancer policy (38:30), role models (42:26), and defining success (44:00).
EPISODE 2: ELIZABETH EISENHAUER
BG is joined by Prof. Elizabeth Eisenhauer, Professor Emerita from Queen’s University. In this episode, we discuss why BG admires Prof. Eisenhauer (2:45), maintaining work-life balance (7:35), women in oncology (11:18), Prof. Eisenhauer’s biggest regrets in her career (14:45), being on a ventilator (19:00), inspiration to become a trialist (21:35), balancing hope with skepticism in clinical trials (32:39), the trial that would have made Prof. Eisenhauer a multi-millionaire (35:00), establishing the Cancer Research Institute with Prof. Eisenhauer’s generous donation (43:00), RECIST criteria (47:48), transitioning into policy (56:40), and advice to young oncologists, mentees, and mentors (59:05).
EPISODE 1: MEET BG
In our inaugural episode, BG Lab research assistant, Claire Diana-Gonsalves joins Dr. Gyawali for a wide-ranging discussion that covers: working in a HIC-setting vs an LMIC-setting (2:05), Dr. Gyawali’s pathway to research (9:40), mentorship and seeking out mentors (19:00), Dr. Gyawali’s passion for physics and how the discipline has altered his approach to research (39:08), and future plans for the podcast (53:08).
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Dr. Bishal Gyawali 