Summits Podcast

Epi 104: Thriving Through the Storm: Elissa Kalver on Living Fully with Stage 4 Cancer and Building We Got This

March 31st, 2026  |  55 mins 7 secs

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What does it look like to not just survive cancer — but truly thrive through it? In this inspiring episode, cohosts Vince Todd, Jr. and Daniel Abdallah sit down with Elissa Kalver, a force of nature who is living with stage 4 breast cancer and channeling that experience into something extraordinary.

Elissa is the founder of We Got This, a nonprofit organization reimagining what support looks like for the cancer community. Through thoughtfully curated gift registries, trusted product and resource recommendations, and a growing library of essential tools, We Got This is helping patients and their loved ones feel seen, equipped, and empowered at every stage of the journey.

But Elissa didn't stop there. She's also the author of the We Got This book, the host of the We Got This podcast, and the creator of her personal podcast Live Like It Matters — a testament to her belief that every single day is worth showing up for.

In this conversation, Elissa shares the story behind the mission, what she's learned about resilience and purpose in the face of a stage 4 diagnosis, and how she's building a community that refuses to be defined by fear.

This is an episode about courage, impact, and living with intention. You don't want to miss it.

Learn more about We Got This at wegotthis.org.

Episode 102: James Golding - From Survivor to Ultra Cyclist

February 10th, 2026  |  1 hr 24 mins

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Missed the 26th Annual An Evening With Heroes? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In episode 102 of The Summits Podcast, cohosts Vince Todd Jr. and Daniel Abdallah sit down with the event’s keynote speaker, James Golding.

James is a two-time cancer survivor turned ultra-distance cyclist with an incredible story of resilience, determination, and triumph. From battling life-threatening illness to conquering some of the world’s toughest cycling challenges, James shares how he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles—one step (or mile) at a time.

Get ready to be inspired by his journey of grit, gratitude, and the power of never giving up.

Epi 68: Surviving & Thriving with Rick Czaplewski

February 20th, 2024  |  47 mins 14 secs

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In episode 68 of the Summits Podcast, Vince Todd, Jr. is joined by Rick Czaplewski – author, speaker, and two-time cancer survivor. Tune in as Rick shares his journey of fighting Hodgkin’s Lymphoma as a college student, and how that experience shapes his life today.

To purchase Rick’s book, “Better Dirty Than Done”, visit rickczaplewski.com/purchase-book.

Epi 63: Men and breast cancer

October 31st, 2023  |  32 mins 40 secs

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In episode 63 of the Summits Podcast, co-hosts Vince Todd, Jr. and Daniel Abdallah are joined by Dr. David Sumner, professor emeritus of journalism at Ball State University. From a surprise diagnosis to recovery and perspective, tune in as Dr. Sumner shares his experience with breast cancer.

For more on the book that Dr. Sumner recommends for cancer recovery, read more here: https://www.lifeovercancer.com/.