Navigating the Fire: Breast Cancer, Chemical Menopause, and the Power of Curiosity

WARNING: This conversation may be triggering.

In this episode of Unmuted, I share the raw details of my “fire journey” with breast cancer—from the moment I noticed a physical change while on vacation to navigating an aggressive diagnosis that required chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. We dive into the often-overlooked side effects of treatment, including the sudden onset of chemical menopause in my 40s, and how I used my engineering background to lean into curiosity rather than fear when faced with high-stakes medical decisions.

My conversation with the Unmuted Podcast

If you or someone you love is navigating a health crisis, this conversation offers a roadmap for self-advocacy.

“Curiosity is a survival strategy: it pulls you out of shock and into a space where you can ask for the risks, demand precision in your care, and actively participate in your own healing journey.”

You’ll hear why I refer to this as a “fire journey” and how you can use the Seasonal Blueprint to reclaim your sense of intention after a year hijacked by crisis. We also discuss the specific “armor” I wore to every appointment, why I insisted on seeing a plastic surgeon before my first surgery, and how my spouse and I redefined intimacy.

Get your copy of the Seasonal Blueprint today. 100% of proceeds will support Breast Cancer Research.

Ready to bring clarity, reflection, and inspiration to your podcast?​

Brooke is available for interviews – in-person or online – on topics ranging from business and leadership practices, entrepreneurship, navigating illness as a high performer, chemical menopause, and more.