Sickle Cell in the Media: Scene & Heard - SCDAA Masterclass
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
This SCDAA Masterclass, a special episode of Cheat Codes, was recorded live at the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc. (SCDAA) 2025 Annual National Convention in Chicago and explores the portrayal of sickle cell disease in the media. Panelists share personal stories and discuss the importance of authentic representation, highlighting both the challenges and progress in raising awareness. The conversation emphasizes the power of storytelling to drive advocacy, reduce stigma, and humanize the experiences of those living with sickle cell disease. Listeners will hear insights...
info_outline
Renal Complications with Sickle Cell Disease
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this powerful episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Santosh Saraf, one of the leading experts on kidney disease in sickle cell, to break down why renal complications are so common yet often overlooked. Dr. Saraf walks listeners through the early warning signs, the importance of routine monitoring, and how albuminuria, creatinine, and cystatin C can signal kidney stress long before symptoms appear. The discussion explores how anemia, hemolysis, blood pressure, and even treatment choices influence long-term kidney health, along with emerging therapies that offer new hope...
info_outline
Learnings from the Red Cell Revolution
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
This special crossover episode brings together advocates from PK deficiency, thalassemia, and sickle cell disease to share insights from the Red Cell Revolution and the powerful connections formed across rare hemolytic anemias. NinaMaria Badalamenti leads a heartfelt conversation with Jill Welle, Laurice Levine, and Cassandra Trimnell about the common challenges these communities face, from fatigue to stigma to navigating complex care. Together, they explore how collaboration, shared education, and collective advocacy strengthen each individual movement. The episode offers hope, perspective,...
info_outline
Health Related Quality of Life Metrics & Health Outcomes in SCD
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Nirmish Shah of Duke University for a deep dive into how technology, wearables, and patient-reported outcomes are transforming the way clinicians measure quality of life in sickle cell disease. Dr. Shah shares the evolution of his work tracking daily symptoms, passive data, and long-term trends, and explains how these insights can help predict complications, personalize care, and strengthen the patient–provider relationship. The conversation explores everything from AI-driven analytics to hospital-based monitoring,...
info_outline
Rising Stars in Sickle Cell: Dr. Sharl Azar
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Sharl Azar joins the hosts to discuss his journey from Oregon to leading the sickle cell program at Mass General in Boston. Dr. Azar shares the pivotal moments that inspired his passion for hematology and advocacy, including his work on groundbreaking legislation to improve care for sickle cell patients in Massachusetts. The conversation highlights the importance of community, systemic change, and the lived experiences of patients. Listeners will be inspired by Dr. Azar’s commitment to equity, collaboration, and building a brighter future for those...
info_outline
Driving Change: MiCaringHeart & the Fight for Sickle Cell Care
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
On this episode, Dr. Z and Dr. C welcome Shayan Siddiqui, founder of MiCaringHeart, to discuss his impactful work supporting sickle cell patients in Detroit. Shayan shares how his family's experiences inspired initiatives like Cabs for Kids, providing transportation to medical appointments, and Outsmart, offering free tutoring for children with chronic illnesses. The conversation highlights the challenges of healthcare access and the power of community-driven solutions. For more information about MiCaringHeart, visit SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients,...
info_outline
‘So What Did I Miss?’: A Recap of the 2023/2024 NASCC Meeting
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this special episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C hand the co-hosting mic to Dr. Julie Kanter for a lively walk through the history of the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC) annual meetings. Alongside Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, Dr. Francis Coyne, and Dr. Alexis Leonard, they revisit key moments from 2022’s belly-dancing dinner to 2025’s record-breaking Vermont gathering. The conversation covers how NASCC consensus topics like pain management, iron overload, gene therapy readiness, and defining a “sickle cell specialist” have evolved year-to-year. Packed with...
info_outline
Rising Stars in Sickle Cell: Dr. Alyssa Schlenz
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this Rising Star episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C spotlight Dr. Alyssa Schlenz, a psychologist transforming sickle cell care through early developmental screening and neuropsychological support. Dr. Schlenz shares her journey into the field, the critical role of prevention and early intervention, and the unique challenges faced by patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. She explains how routine, relationship-based screenings can identify issues early, reduce stigma, and improve long-term outcomes. This inspiring conversation highlights the power of...
info_outline
Good Sickle Cell Care
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this live episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by a powerhouse panel: Dr. Payal Desai, Dr. Seethal Jacob, Dr. Pat McGann, and Dr. Andy Ellner to unpack what truly defines great sickle cell care. The group explores the importance of comprehensive, continuous, and patient-centered models, from inpatient to outpatient settings, pediatrics to adulthood. They discuss integrating technology, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary teams to improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications. It’s an insightful look at how collaboration, innovation,...
info_outline
History & Founding of NASCC
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Julie Kanter, Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, and Dr. Marsha Treadwell to spotlight the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC). They explore how NASCC came to life, its mission to unite multidisciplinary teams, and its role in setting consensus guidelines for sickle cell care. From building a national registry to fostering collaboration between clinics, community organizations, and patients, the conversation captures a pivotal movement toward consistent, high-quality care nationwide. Listeners will hear how NASCC is shaping the...
info_outlineIn this live episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by a powerhouse panel: Dr. Payal Desai, Dr. Seethal Jacob, Dr. Pat McGann, and Dr. Andy Ellner to unpack what truly defines great sickle cell care. The group explores the importance of comprehensive, continuous, and patient-centered models, from inpatient to outpatient settings, pediatrics to adulthood. They discuss integrating technology, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary teams to improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications. It’s an insightful look at how collaboration, innovation, and trust are shaping the future of sickle cell treatment.
SHOW DESCRIPTION
Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. With each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community.
Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram.
TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.