Getting Tits Deep in Awareness: Breast Cancer, Community & Taking Action

It’s not every day you meet someone whose story blends friendship, loss, and a whole lot of mountain magic into something that genuinely makes a difference. This week on the Tarin It Up Podcast, We got to sit down with Stephanie Villavicencio, founder of Tits Deep for Breast Cancer, to talk about how a few stickers turned into a nationwide nonprofit empowering women to advocate for their health.

Steph’s story is equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring. What started as a fundraiser for her friend Nadine became a movement built around snowboarding, sisterhood, and showing up for yourself and others, on and off the mountain.

From Powder Days to Purpose

Steph moved to Aspen after college and fell in love with mountain life, snowboarding, the outdoors, and the community that comes with it. When her best friend Nadine was diagnosed with stage-three breast cancer, Steph started selling “Tits Deep” stickers to raise money for her medical bills.

The response was huge. Within months, she’d raised over $11,000. But what came next, the creation of Tits Deep for Breast Cancer, was even more powerful. The brand evolved from a one-time campaign into a full-fledged nonprofit that helps young women access mammograms, provides financial aid for early detection, and creates safe spaces to talk about breast health without shame or stigma.

Breaking Barriers in Women’s Healthcare

So much of this conversation hit close to home. Steph and Amber both share deeply personal experiences with breast cancer, from losing their mothers to navigating the maze of insurance approvals and screenings in their 30s.

We talked about how frustrating it can be to get a mammogram before 40, the reality of being told “you’re too young,” and why early screening can literally save lives. Steph breaks down what “screening” vs. “diagnostic” really means, what questions to ask your doctor, and how to advocate for yourself when you hit roadblocks.

What You Need to Know About Breast Density

Steph also explains an often-overlooked topic: breast density. Dense tissue can make it harder for mammograms to detect abnormalities, especially in younger women — and as of 2024, clinics are now required to tell you your breast density category.

Knowing this info matters. It can help you advocate for further testing, such as an MRI, and provides another tool for self-advocacy. Steph’s mission with Tits Deep is to make sure women know this, because knowledge is power, and in this case, it can be life-saving.

Finding Healing Through Movement

What makes Tits Deep so special is how it weaves community, movement, and healing together. From snowboarding and mountain biking events to artful merch that sparks conversation, Steph has built something that celebrates life, not just survival.

Her story of grief after losing Nadine, and how snowboarding helped her process that loss, is a powerful reminder that the outdoors can be a form of therapy. It’s not just about awareness, it’s about connection. Her upcoming short film with the Tits Deep team captures that connection. Stay tuned for the Truckee screening this December at Truckee Brewing Company, where proceeds from the raffle will benefit Tits Deep for Breast Cancer.

Why You’ll Want to Hit Play

✅ The powerful story behind Tits Deep for Breast Cancer
✅ Early detection and what young women need to know
✅ Why breast density matters (and how to ask about it)
✅ Navigating healthcare hurdles with self-advocacy and persistence
✅ The role of movement, grief, and sisterhood in healing

Stay Connected

🎿 Tits Deep for Breast Cancer
📸 @titsdeepforbreastcancer
🎬 Tits Deep short film — coming soon to Truckee Brewing Co. screening night!

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Partner Thanks

This episode is supported by NoSo Patches — because flair isn’t just for fixing. 🎨
Add personality to your gear (no hole required!) and use code FLAIRINITUP for 15% off at nosopatches.com.

Friendly Note

These convo notes are for awareness and empowerment—they’re not medical advice. If something feels off, trust your gut and call your provider. You’ve got this. 💪