Yes, We Can! - With Kira Andersen

Dr. Ryan Fields on GI Cancers Research, and the Fight for a Cure | Yes, We Can! | EP 10

Welcome back to the Yes We Can podcast! 🎙️ In this powerful episode, host Kira Andersen is joined by Dr. Ryan Fields, a surgical oncologist and Chief of Surgical Oncology at Washington University’s Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis. Dr. Fields, who is currently attending a cancer research conference in San Diego, shares his groundbreaking work in cancer research, particularly in the areas of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers and melanoma.

Dr. Fields and Kira discuss the importance of cancer research, why GI cancers—such as pancreatic cancer—are increasingly affecting younger people, and the critical need for funding to advance cancer treatment. As someone dedicated to saving lives through surgery and cutting-edge research, Dr. Fields provides insights into the complexities of cancer and why early detection, understanding environmental factors, and investing in research are key to combating this disease.

Kira opens up about her personal connection to Dr. Fields, stemming from the loss of her husband, Kyle, to pancreatic cancer. They also discuss their involvement in Pedal the Cause, a St. Louis-based fundraiser where every dollar raised directly funds the most promising cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center.

Join us for an inspiring and educational conversation on the frontlines of cancer research, and learn how you can help make a difference in the fight for a cure.

Connect with Kira:

https://linktr.ee/KIRAANDERSEN

https://www.kiraandersen.com/

https://www.instagram.com/theessentialsbykira/

Support Pedal the Cause

https://www.givesignup.org/kiraandersen

Our Mark on Melanoma (Pedal the Cause)

https://www.givesignup.org/Race/157721/Donate/ZpVaB7rdE6lh2Mn4

Healing Childhood Wounds: Mental Health, Parenting, and Growth | Yes, We Can! | EP 9

Welcome back to the Yes We Can podcast! 🎙️ In this deeply personal episode, host Kira Andersen sits down with her close friend, Corey Schonhorst, to explore his powerful journey of self-discovery and healing. Corey, a comedian and father, opens up about his childhood experiences, the importance of mental health, and the steps he’s taken to break free from generational trauma.

Corey shares the pivotal moments that shaped his life, from growing up without knowing his father to being raised primarily by his grandparents. He candidly reflects on his upbringing, including periods spent in an orphanage and how early childhood instability affected him into adulthood. As Corey dives into his journey, he emphasizes the importance of doing the inner work, healing childhood wounds, and being the best version of oneself—not only for personal growth but to ensure a healthier path for the next generation.

This episode touches on Corey’s comedic background, his production work, and his candid discussions around mental health and parenting. Kira and Corey talk about the significance of addressing past trauma, how it impacts relationships and communication, and the steps parents can take to avoid passing down unhealed wounds to their children.

Don’t miss this inspiring and relatable conversation, where Corey opens up about overcoming challenges, growing through self-reflection, and finding strength through vulnerability. His story is a reminder that it’s never too late to begin the journey of healing and self-improvement.

Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Yes We Can podcast, where we share stories of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Hockey, Wellness, and Travel: A Conversation with Chris and Lauren Pronger | Yes, We Can! Livestream

Welcome back to the "Yes, We Can!" podcast! 🎙️ In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Kira Andersen sits down with the incredible Lauren and Chris Pronger. Chris, a former St. Louis Blues hockey player, and Lauren, founder of the wellness travel company Well Inspired Travels, share their journey of navigating life’s challenges, personal growth, and their mission to inspire others to live well.

Lauren and Chris open up about their lives, including the struggles and triumphs that have shaped who they are today. Lauren talks about her passion for wellness, which grew from personal experiences and family tragedies, such as her father’s battle with cancer. She describes how travel became a magical experience for her, as it allowed her father to embrace life while fighting for more time. This inspired her to create Well Inspired Travels, a wellness-focused travel company that helps others prioritize their health and well-being through carefully curated travel experiences.

Chris shares his transition from being a professional hockey player to focusing on health and wellness. He discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic led him to reevaluate his health and the steps he’s taken to adopt a "super well" lifestyle, inspired by Lauren’s expertise in wellness. Together, they are passionate about using their platform to help others optimize their lives, both physically and mentally.

This episode delves into the Prongers’ commitment to wellness, their journey through personal challenges, and their exciting new ventures, including luxury wellness consulting and Chris’s impactful work as a speaker. It’s a conversation filled with honesty, vulnerability, and the shared mission to inspire others to live their best lives.

Don’t miss this inspiring discussion with the Prongers, and be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Yes We Can podcast, where we share stories of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Connect with Kira:

https://linktr.ee/KIRAANDERSEN

https://www.kiraandersen.com/

https://www.instagram.com/theessentialsbykira/

Connect with Lauren:

https://www.instagram.com/lauren_pronger/

https://laurenpronger.com/

https://www.wellinspiredtravels.com/

Support Pedal the Cause

https://www.givesignup.org/kiraandersen

Overcoming Lymphoma: Anna Prosser’s Inspiring Journey | Yes, We Can! With Kira | EP 7

Welcome back to the Yes We Can podcast! 🎙️ In this special episode, host Kira Andersen is joined by one of her closest friends, Anna Prosser. Anna shares her incredible journey from being diagnosed with lymphoma in her early 30s to becoming a mother and thriving in life today. Her story is one of hope, resilience, and the miracles that can happen even in the face of life’s greatest challenges.

Anna begins by recounting the time in her life when she was diagnosed with lymphoma at the age of 33. She was in the best shape of her life, engaged to her now-husband Johnny, and enjoying her career in fitness. However, things took a sudden turn when she began experiencing unexplained symptoms, including shortness of breath and a persistent cough, which eventually led to her cancer diagnosis.

Through her quiet strength and determination, Anna battled lymphoma and emerged stronger than ever. Today, she is a stay-at-home mom to her "miracle baby" and continues to inspire those around her by sharing her story. Kira and Anna discuss the importance of listening to your body, the power of community and support, and the hope that exists even in the darkest times.

This episode is a heartfelt conversation between two close friends who have supported each other through life’s ups and downs. Anna’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the belief that miracles can and do happen.

Connect with Kira:

https://linktr.ee/KIRAANDERSEN

https://www.kiraandersen.com/

https://www.instagram.com/theessentialsbykira/

Connect with Anna:

https://www.instagram.com/annakprosser/

Support Pedal the Cause

https://www.givesignup.org/kiraandersen

EP 6 | Understanding Postpartum: A Conversation with Therapist Shellie Fidell | Yes We Can with Kira

In this episode, host Kira Andersen sits down with Shellie Fidell, a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist who played a crucial role in Kira’s postpartum journey after the birth of her first daughter. Shellie brings her vast experience in supporting women through the challenges of postpartum depression, infertility, and the emotional complexities of motherhood.

Shellie shares her professional background, beginning with her work as a medical social worker at Barnes Jewish Hospital before transitioning into private practice, where she focused on helping women navigate postpartum depression and related challenges. Over time, Shellie expanded her expertise to include support for women struggling with infertility and those experiencing anxiety and depression during pregnancy.

In this episode, Shellie and Kira discuss the importance of acknowledging and addressing postpartum depression, the evolution of treatment options, and the broader impact of mental health on new mothers. They explore the societal expectations placed on women, the stigma that often surrounds postpartum mental health, and the critical need for open conversations and accessible support.

Kira also shares personal insights from her own postpartum experience and the relief she found through therapy. Together, they aim to shed light on the often-overlooked struggles of new motherhood and encourage listeners to seek help and support when needed.

Tune in for an insightful and compassionate discussion on motherhood, mental health, and the power of therapy in overcoming postpartum challenges.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Yes We Can podcast, where we share stories of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Connect with Kira:

https://linktr.ee/KIRAANDERSEN

https://www.kiraandersen.com/

https://www.instagram.com/theessentialsbykira/

Connect with Shellie:

https://shelliefidell.com/

Mentioned Websites:

https://girlsintheknow.org/

https://www.postpartum.net/

Support Pedal the Cause

https://www.givesignup.org/kiraandersen

Episode 5: From Law to Fitness: Nick Ahlering’s Journey with Orangetheory | Yes We Can Podcast

Welcome back to the Yes We Can podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, host Kira Andersen sits down with her dear friend Nick Ahlering, the owner of several Orangetheory Fitness locations in St. Louis, including Ladue, Chesterfield, and Creve Coeur. Nick's journey from law school to becoming a fitness entrepreneur is both fascinating and inspiring, and today, he shares that story with us.

Nick and Kira start off by reminiscing about their shared time in Northern California during their twenties and how their paths eventually led them both back to St. Louis. Nick talks about his journey from St. Louis to California for college at Santa Clara, where he was on the rowing team, and then to law school in Florida. After practicing law in Tampa, Nick discovered Orangetheory Fitness, a boutique fitness studio that was just emerging at the time. His love for Orangetheory led him to leave law behind and bring the franchise back to St. Louis, where he has successfully expanded it.

In this episode, Nick shares his experiences of transitioning from law to fitness, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and why St. Louis is such a special place for him and his family. He also discusses the unique aspects of Orangetheory Fitness that set it apart from other fitness programs and how it has impacted the local community.

Tune in for an engaging conversation about following your passion, the importance of community, and the journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Nick’s story is a testament to the power of taking risks and following your heart.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Yes We Can podcast, where we share stories of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Connect with Kira: https://linktr.ee/KIRAANDERSEN https://www.kiraandersen.com/

Connect with Nick https://www.orangetheory.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nickahlering/

Support Pedal the Cause https://www.givesignup.org/kiraandersen

Episode 5: From Law to Fitness: Nick Ahlering’s Journey with Orangetheory | Yes We Can Podcast

Welcome back to the Yes We Can podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, host Kira Andersen sits down with her dear friend Nick Ahlering, the owner of several Orangetheory Fitness locations in St. Louis, including Ladue, Chesterfield, and Creve Coeur. Nick's journey from law school to becoming a fitness entrepreneur is both fascinating and inspiring, and today, he shares that story with us.

Nick and Kira start off by reminiscing about their shared time in Northern California during their twenties and how their paths eventually led them both back to St. Louis. Nick talks about his journey from St. Louis to California for college at Santa Clara, where he was on the rowing team, and then to law school in Florida. After practicing law in Tampa, Nick discovered Orangetheory Fitness, a boutique fitness studio that was just emerging at the time. His love for Orangetheory led him to leave law behind and bring the franchise back to St. Louis, where he has successfully expanded it.

In this episode, Nick shares his experiences of transitioning from law to fitness, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and why St. Louis is such a special place for him and his family. He also discusses the unique aspects of Orangetheory Fitness that set it apart from other fitness programs and how it has impacted the local community.

Tune in for an engaging conversation about following your passion, the importance of community, and the journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Nick’s story is a testament to the power of taking risks and following your heart.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Yes We Can podcast, where we share stories of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Connect with Kira:

https://linktr.ee/KIRAANDERSEN

https://www.kiraandersen.com/

Connect with Nick

https://www.orangetheory.com/

https://www.instagram.com/nickahlering/

Support Pedal the Cause

https://www.givesignup.org/kiraandersen

Episode 4: Reed Lowe’s Journey: Hockey, Charity, and Making a Difference | Yes We Can Podcast

In this episode, Kira Andersen sits down with former NHL enforcer and current charitable auctioneer, Reed Lowe. Reed, known for his tough presence on the ice with the St. Louis Blues, now channels his passion into supporting charitable causes.

Reed shares his journey from growing up in the hockey-famous town of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to playing nine seasons in the NHL, five of which were with the St. Louis Blues. As an enforcer on the ice, Reed racked up an impressive record, but his true legacy shines in his dedication to giving back off the ice. Whether it’s raising money for youth sports or supporting various charitable organizations, Reed has made it his mission to make a positive impact in his community.

Kira and Reed discuss their shared commitment to raising awareness and funds for cancer research. Kira shares her personal connection to the cause, having lost her husband to pancreatic cancer and raising over a million dollars towards a phase one study for a treatment that gave her husband more time. Reed talks about his ongoing involvement in charity work, including his transition into the role of a charitable auctioneer, where he continues to support numerous causes.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, the power of community, and the importance of giving back. Reed Lowe’s story is a testament to the fact that there’s life beyond the rink, and it’s filled with purpose and heart.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the Yes We Can podcast, where we share stories of hope, resilience, and empowerment.