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In this episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting, we spotlight powerful stories of purpose, partnership, and personal experiences that propel action against cancer.

Rodney and Erika McLeod, co-founders of Change Our Future, reflect on their personal cancer journeys and why they’re championing education, youth leadership, and cancer research through their growing partnership with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). NFL veteran and former Philadelphia Eagles safety Rodney McLeod shares how the loss of his grandmother to pancreatic cancer shaped his mission, while Erika opens up about her mother’s survivorship and their deep dedication to uplifting the next generation.

We’re also joined by Stephen Ryan, President and Chairman of the AACR Foundation and longtime supporter of cancer research. Stephen discusses how personal loss became a catalyst for his advocacy and shares key insights about strategic giving, leadership, and the importance of funding early-stage research.

Episode Highlights:

Segment 1: Turning Loss into Purpose

Rodney and Erika McLeod share how their personal connections to cancer inspired the founding of Change Our Future and their commitment to investing in the next generation.

Segment 2: Partnering with the AACR to Inspire Young Scientists

The McLeods speak about their involvement with the AACR’s high school program, empowering students to explore STEM and medical research as pathways to impact.

Segment 3: Building Confidence Beyond the Classroom

Through mentorship, leadership summits, and real-world skills, Change Our Future is equipping underserved youth with tools to succeed in life and career, including in cancer advocacy.

Segment 4: Legacy, Strategy, and the Power of Philanthropy

Stephen Ryan, President and Chairman of the AACR Foundation, discusses how cancer shaped his family’s legacy and how financial stewardship plays a key role in advancing cancer research.

Segment 5: Broadening the Reach of Research

Stephen reflects on the AACR’s reputation, the critical need to fund early-career scientists, and why the cancer research ecosystem must expand to reach more communities and have more potential.

Production Credits:

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guests: Rodney McLeod, Erika McLeod, Stephen Ryan

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.