Kicking Cancers Butt by Building Community by BRAINWORK Podcast

Ulman, 40, is a three-time cancer survivor, former CEO of the LIVESTRONG Foundation and the founder of his own nonprofit, The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults. His life’s work—his why—is simple: Build community. And focusing on that has not only guided him through some tough times and inspired many; it’s also allowed him to lead efforts that are saving lives. Ulman grew up in a family devoted to giving back. His parents were both engaged members of their community, frequently hosting committee meetings, preparing food for local shelters and making political calls. He was always headed toward a life of community service and team building, he says, but his health narrowed his focus. The first cancer diagnosis, chondrosarcoma, came at 19 as he started his sophomore year at Brown University. He beat it— and has since battled and beat malignant melanoma twice. As a young adult with cancer, Ulman noted a significant lack of resources. He founded The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults in 1997 as a way to create community and raise awareness for young adults with cancer. The organization provides resources and one-on-one support. It also facilitates opportunities for survivors and those battling cancer to gather and encourage each other. Ulman then spent 14 years with the LIVESTRONG Foundation. He helped build the organization’s success, launched the iconic yellow wristband, and played a critical role in navigating some of the more challenging obstacles the organization faced in 2012. Then, Ulman arrived in Columbus, Ohio, charged with making Pelotonia a national organization and movement. It’s raised $156 million, which Pelotonia is committed to using in innovative ways, awarding grants to young scientists so they’re compelled to stay in the field and making smaller investments that might have a larger impact down the road. About BRAINWORK Blake & Vincenzo started the BRAINWORK podcast for the genuinely curious ? those looking to acquire knowledge from people of all walks of life and learn more about the world around us. Blake Guidry is a wine enthusiast and cinematographer at Aftermarq, a creative studio in Columbus, Ohio. Vincenzo Landino is a taco aficionado and wine-maker as well as the CEO of Aftermarq. These two are some of the most curious people around, spend way too much time together at work and traveling the world.