Episode 7 – ChatPTSD

In this episode of The Meningioma Cast, I step outside my comfort zone (literally) and share a recent run-in with some… let’s call them “colorful” characters while trying to be more extroverted. Spoiler: it was awkward.

I also dive into the real stuff—like what PTSD looks and feels like after living through a brain tumor. From unexpected emotional triggers to that ever-lurking sense of dread, I open up about the mental and emotional aftermath no one really warns you about.

It’s part confessional, part comedy, and all heart.

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Episode 6: Happy Mother’s Craniversary Day

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of The Meningioma Cast, we celebrate Mother’s Day and my 3-year craniversary — three years since brain surgery and still no tumor regrowth. I open up about the emotional side of recovery and what it’s like when friends and family react to a brain tumor diagnosis (spoiler: not always how you’d expect).

We also take a look at how AI is changing the medical world, from diagnostics to mental health support, and what that might mean for people like us — patients, survivors, and supporters.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, recovering from surgery, or supporting someone with a meningioma or other brain tumor, this episode is full of real talk, reflection, and resilience.

Email me: Giomacast@gmail.com

Hypnosis for sleep:

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Episode 5: Painting Chickens

Before my craniotomy, in the middle of all the anxiety and unknowns, I found myself painting… chickens. Don’t ask why — it just made sense at the time. In this episode, I talk about that surreal stretch leading up to surgery, share a listener’s heartfelt letter, and give an honest check-in about how this past week has been going.

Sometimes it’s the weird stuff that gets us through.

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This week on The Meningioma Cast, I’m picking up where I left off — sharing a little more about where I’m at now in my meningioma story, a few of the side effects that stuck around (and a few that surprised me), and what life looks like these days.

It’s not all bad, it’s not all deep — it’s just real.

And I’d love to hear your story too.

Because while no two journeys are the same, talking about it helps.

Please share your story at: Giomacast@gmail.com

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Episode 3 – Down by the River: Recovery, Support, and What Angela Remembers

In this episode, I take you with me to the banks of the Hillsborough River, where I sit down with Angela—my friend, caregiver, and the one who was there when I couldn’t be. As we reflect on those early recovery days after my craniotomy, Angela shares memories I’ve forgotten… or maybe blocked out—like what really went down in the ICU, how many people saw my giggleberries, and the quiet, raw moments of healing that shaped who I am today.

This conversation goes beyond memory. It’s about trauma, laughter, friendship, and the kind of support that keeps you tethered when everything else unravels. Whether you’re recovering from brain surgery, supporting someone who is, or just need a moment of real talk mixed with ridiculousness—you’ll feel seen.

The MeningiomaCast is a podcast for anyone affected by brain tumors—patients, caregivers, and curious humans alike.

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In this powerful and emotional episode of The Meningioma Cast, I walk you through the moment I sat across from the neurosurgeon and saw the tumor for the first time. I talk openly about what it’s like to be told you have a brain tumor—and what happens next when your entire life changes in an instant.

From diagnosis to surgery, and waking up unable to walk, I share the raw reality of recovery, identity, and finding meaning in moments that break you open. This episode dives deep into who we are after the trauma, and what it means to heal—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually too.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a meningioma or any kind of brain tumor, this one’s for you.

Make sure you like, subscribe and pass on to those who could use some fairly light talk on some pretty heavy subjects!

Look brain tumors aren’t just medical—they’re personal.

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Before the diagnosis, before the surgery, before the podcast—there was just me… trying to make sense of a body that wasn’t behaving, and a life that was slowly being rewritten without my permission.

In this first episode of The MeningiomaCast, I share the real story of the year and a half leading up to my brain tumor diagnosis. From confusing symptoms to seizures, misdiagnoses, and that sinking feeling that something bigger was going on—this is the raw, unfiltered lead-up to hearing the words no one expects: “You have a brain tumor.”

If you’re newly diagnosed, living with a meningioma, or love someone who is—this one’s for you. Been through it all? Well you will probably relate.

Honest. Emotional. Sometimes funny. Always real.

Because brain tumors suck, but sharing helps.

Pass this episode on to anyone who may relate.

Next week:

I have a brain tumor. Now what?!?!?

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