CAPhO Connections Podcast

Upcoming Podcasts

• 3D Printing
• ctDNA and Colorectal Cancer
• Artificial Intelligence (pt.2)

Your Host

Chris Tse

Chris Tse is a pharmacist working at Princess Margaret Hospital in the lymphoma, myeloma, auto transplant, and immune effector cell therapy ward. Beyond his clinical work, Chris is involved in education and teaching. He serves as the chair of the pharmacy committee for Cell Therapy Transplant Canada. He also hosts the CAPhO Connections and Off the Script podcasts, where he engages with industry professionals to share insights and discuss key issues affecting pharmacy practice and patient care. Outside of his professional commitments, Chris is passionate about maintaining a balanced lifestyle, with interests that include regular exercise, playing video games, and engaging in fundraising initiatives to support cancer research.

Team Leads

Cassandra Austin (Sum)

Cassandra Austin (Sum) is a registered pharmacist and former registered nurse with experience across hospital and specialty oncology settings. She has a keen interest in the rapidly evolving field of oncology and is committed to continuous learning through conferences, webinars, and scientific exchange focused on emerging therapies, advances in clinical practice, and identifying unmet needs that can ultimately improve patient care. Cassandra co-leads the CAPhO Connections Podcast alongside Maria Marchese, where they develop engaging content and bring together leading multidisciplinary experts to discuss emerging evidence, practical insights, and the future of oncology pharmacy. Outside of her professional commitments, Cassandra is an avid Formula1 fan who also enjoys listening to new music,  trying new foods, travelling, and discovering new places and experiences.

Maria Marchese

Maria Marchese is an oncology pharmacist and co-lead of the CAPhO Connections Podcast. She obtained her PharmD from U of T in 2015, and hospital residency at KGH. She later obtained her MSc in Pharmacy at U of T where she researched medical cannabis in cancer patients. She has a strong interest in supportive care, and pharmacy-led programs to support patients through the growing use of oral anticancer therapies. As an instructor in the PharmD program for the oncology course at U of T and preceptor for many pharmacy students, Maria often uses podcasts to keep up to date. When not listening to music or podcasts, Maria is constantly training for her next marathon, triathlon, or cycling adventure. If there is something you would like to hear about on an upcoming podcast, feel free to reach out at maria.marchese@mail.utoronto.ca.