Show Notes: Episode 50: UNINHIBITED with Dr. Phil Anton
About The Guest
Dr. Phil Anton is an Associate Professor and the Program Director for Exercise Science at SIU Carbondale. He is the director of the Strong Survivors Exercise and Nutrition Program for cancer survivors and caregivers, and he also directs the SIUC Cancer Rehabilitation Laboratory.
Summary
Dr. Phil Anton shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Michigan to becoming a renowned cancer rehabilitation researcher. He talks about his early career aspirations, the influence of his parents, and his transition from computer science to physical education. He discusses how he found his purpose in cancer rehabilitation and the impact of his cousin’s battle with cancer on his career path. Dr. Anton also highlights the importance of listening to others and the power of exercise as a therapeutic tool for cancer survivors.
Dr. Anton emphasizes the significance of exercise as a therapeutic tool for cancer survivors and caregivers, both physically and psychologically. He discusses the impact of the Strong Survivors program at SIU Carbondale and the need for more accessible cancer rehabilitation programs. Dr. Anton also expresses his desire to gain support from influential figures in oncology to make cancer rehab a standard part of care.
Key Takeaways
- Exercise is a powerful tool for enhancing the physical and psychological well-being of cancer survivors.
- The Strong Survivors program at SIU Carbondale aims to break down barriers and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors.
- Dr. Anton emphasizes the importance of listening to others and seeking guidance in finding one’s career path.
- He hopes to expand the reach of cancer rehabilitation programs and gain support from influential figures in oncology.
Quotes
- “Exercise is that drug. It’s a psychological agent as well.” – Dr. Phil Anton
- “We’re helping to break down barriers because there’s not a whole lot that oncologists know about exercise or quality of life.” – Dr. Phil Anton
- “You have to be able to assist them through uncomfortable conversations and be prepared for the loss of some participants.” – Dr. Phil Anton
- “The answers are out there, the avenues are out there, and you’ll get there eventually.” – Dr. Phil Anton
- “Cancer rehab is where cardiac rehab was when it was first getting started.” – Dr. Phil Anton
- “Eventually, a cancer diagnosis will mean that you are funneled immediately into a cancer rehab program.” – Dr. Phil Anton
- “Strong Survivors allows all three of those things to happen very easily, and they all are tied together.” – Dr. Phil Anton
| Timestamp | Summary |
|---|---|
| [0:00:00] | Watching cousin take last breaths, shaping future self |
| [0:01:09] | Goal to live life in a way that honors cousin’s memory |
| [0:04:43] | Introduction of Dr. Phil Anton |
| [0:05:35] | Childhood dreams of being an auto mechanic, football player, game show host |
| [0:08:14] | Growing up in Hastings, Michigan |
| [0:09:25] | Attending Alma College and discovering calling |
| [0:10:31] | Shifting majors from computer science to business |
| [0:11:57] | Mother’s suggestion to pursue career in exercise |
| [0:12:17] | Phil’s career path in exercise science |
| [0:12:37] | Phil’s expertise in cancer rehabilitation and research |
| 0:12:17 | Phil Anton is an authority on exercise for cancer survivors. |
| 0:13:04 | Phil encourages students to explore different career paths. |
| 0:14:34 | Phil advises students to listen to others for inspiration. |
| 0:15:40 | Phil’s parents encouraged him to find his own path. |
| 0:18:02 | Phil had a shy and rebellious identity growing up. |
| 0:19:22 | Phil gained confidence and personality in college. |
| 0:23:15 | Phil realized he had more to offer as a professor. |
| 0:24:58 | Phil’s dance moves may surface in videos one day. |
| 0:25:10 | Transition from computer science to physical education. |
| 0:25:46 | Grad school became a consideration for Phil. |
| [0:25:40] | Transition out of Michigan and living with parents |
| [0:26:33] | Moving to Colorado and living with a friend |
| [0:28:32] | Exploring Colorado and considering grad school |
| [0:29:57] | Deciding to pursue a master’s degree |
| [0:30:59] | Considering a career as a college professor |
| [0:34:11] | Choosing University of Northern Colorado for PhD program |
| [0:35:48] | Feeling like a failure for not establishing a professional career |
| [0:36:31] | Meeting Dr. Julie Partridge and getting married |
| [0:37:25] | Discovering interest in cancer rehabilitation |
| [0:38:29] | Learning about Rocky Mountain Cancer Rehab Institute |
| 0:39:02 | Introduction to using exercise as therapy for cancer survivors |
| 0:39:42 | Story of cousin’s battle with cancer and amputation |
| 0:41:19 | Cousin’s cancer spreads to different parts of her body |
| 0:43:38 | Discussion about death and dying |
| 0:44:14 | Protagonist rushes to be with cousin in hospital |
| 0:46:24 | Protagonist’s struggle to find the hospital in a snowstorm |
| 0:48:02 | Mysterious helpful nurse guides protagonist to cousin’s room |
| 0:49:21 | Protagonist says final goodbyes to cousin |
| 0:50:49 | Cousin passes away, protagonist reflects on her impact |
| 0:51:31 | Protagonist’s determination to honor cousin’s memory and help others |
| [0:51:57] | A describes his realization that he wants to help cancer survivors. |
| [0:52:39] | A shares his emotional conversation with Dr. Dennehy. |
| [0:53:34] | A starts the Strong Survivors program in Carbondale. |
| [0:56:26] | A expresses his passion for helping cancer survivors and caregivers. |
| [0:57:04] | B discusses the social impact of the Strong Survivors program. |
| [0:57:47] | A talks about the close relationships formed between staff and participants. |
| [1:00:57] | A reflects on the perspective gained from working with cancer survivors. |
| [1:02:02] | A emphasizes the unique experience and perspective gained by students. |
| [1:03:27] | B highlights the psychological benefits of exercise for cancer survivors. |
| [1:04:43] | A mentions the loss of participants and the importance of providing support. |
| 1:05:11 | Discussing the students involved in the Strong Survivor program. |
| 1:06:05 | Advice for younger self: seek guidance and don’t despair. |
| 1:07:12 | Choosing the song “Bad” by U2 as the soundtrack to his life. |
| 1:09:12 | Goals for the future: increase outreach and accessibility of the program. |
| 1:11:19 | The impact of community-engaged scholarship and serving the community. |
| 1:12:24 | Wrapping up the interview and expressing gratitude. |
| 1:13:01 | Closing remarks and call to share the podcast. |
| 1:13:24 | Teasers for upcoming episodes. |
| 1:14:19 | Credits and contact information. |