Episode Summary In this episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, Maddie Williamson, a genetic counselor and BRCA1 carrier, joins host Sara Kavanaugh to discuss what it means to navigate hereditary cancer risk as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Drawing from both personal experience and professional expertise, Maddie shares the challenges and insights that come with balancing genetic risk, identity, and access to care. The conversation explores how connection, understanding, and empathy can make a lasting difference in the hereditary cancer journey — for patients, families, and providers alike. Key Topics Covered Personal Story & Perspective — Maddie’s journey as a genetic counselor and BRCA1 carrier Barriers to Inclusive Healthcare — Finding affirming providers and safe medical spaces Insurance & Access — Navigating coverage gaps and coding complexities Family, Identity & Genetic Testing — How estrangement and chosen family affect care Representation & Research — SOGI data gaps and why inclusive study design matters From Allyship to Action — What providers and advocates can do to better support LGBTQ+ patients Resources Maddie Williamson — Instagram: @MaddieLucy27 Support & Genetic Counseling FORCE – LGBTQIA+ Peer Support GroupA safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating hereditary cancer risk.facingourrisk.org The Breasties – LGBTQ+ SupportCommunity and resources for those impacted by hereditary breast/ovarian cancer. thebreasties.org Sarah Roth — Genetic Counselor & Writer: @OtherSarah National Society of Genetic Counselors – Find a GC ToolSearch for licensed genetic counselors, including those with LGBTQ+ affirming experience. nsgc.org/page/find-a-genetic-counselor LGBTQ+-Affirming Care & Education National LGBT Cancer Network — Affirming provider directories, support groups, and clinician toolkits. cancer-network.org OutCare Health — U.S. directory of culturally competent providers for LGBTQ+ patients. outcarehealth.org Callen-Lorde Health Center — LGBTQ+-focused healthcare and advocacy based in New York. callen-lorde.org Research & Representation GLMA – Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ EqualityContinuing education, best practices, and health policy insights. glma.org LGBTData.com — Inclusive public health data and SOGI visibility. lgbtdata.com NCCN Language Guidance — Sensitive, Respectful, and Inclusive Language for Oncology -  NCCN Guidance PDF Advancing Health Equity for LGBTQ+ Identifying Patients with Cancer (NCCN Infographic) NCCN Health Equity PDF Listen & Subscribe The Positive Gene Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms. Visit PositiveGenePodcast.com for more conversations that empower, educate, and inspire those navigating hereditary cancer risk. Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The views shared are based on personal and professional experiences and should not replace medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider, genetic counselor, or qualified medical professional regarding your individual situation.

In this moving episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh sits down with author Tiffany Graham Charkosky, whose forthcoming memoir Living Proof: How Love Defied Genetic Legacy shares her deeply personal journey through Lynch Syndrome, family loss, and the power of love and resilience. Tiffany reflects on how discovering her genetic risk reshaped her understanding of health, motherhood, and legacy and how she’s teaching her sons to live with gratitude and joy in the face of uncertainty. Together, Sara and Tiffany explore what it means to build a life rooted in hope, connection, and purpose, even when our DNA tells a different story. In this episode, Tiffany and Sara discuss: The moment Tiffany learned she carried Lynch Syndrome and how it changed everything Balancing genetic risk with parenting, openness, and protecting childhood How love guided Tiffany’s preventative health decisions The emotional parallels between grief, forgiveness, and self-discovery Why resilience isn’t about strength alone - it’s about meaning and connection What it means to leave behind a legacy of love Whether you’re navigating your own hereditary cancer risk or simply searching for inspiration to live more fully, this conversation reminds us that our genes may shape us, but they don’t define us. Guest Bio:Tiffany Graham Charkosky is a writer whose essays and short stories explore love, family, and human connection. Her memoir, Living Proof: How Love Defied Genetic Legacy, weaves together her family’s experience with Lynch Syndrome, her own journey through genetic testing and prevention, and her reflections on resilience, motherhood, and hope. Tiffany lives in Northeast Ohio with her family and has worked in the arts for over twenty years. Connect with Tiffany:🌐 Website: tiffanygrahamcharkosky.com📚 Order Living Proof: How Love Defied Genetic Legacy (launches October 21) — Amazon link placeholder📸 Instagram: @tiffanygrahamcharkosky Connect with Sara:🎧 Listen to past episodes: The Positive Gene Podcast🌐 Website: positivegenepodcast.com📸 Instagram: @positivegenepodcast

Earlier this year, musician Peter Cornell — brother of the late Chris Cornell — received a diagnosis no man expects: breast cancer. Testing revealed he carries a CHEK2 mutation, which increases the risk for breast, prostate, and other cancers. In this raw and powerful conversation, Peter shares how his wife first discovered the tumor, his treatment experience at Vanderbilt, and the profound impact of genetic testing on his family. We talk about stigma, resilience, mental health, and the hope that comes with awareness. This episode was recorded in time for Hereditary Cancer Week (Sept. 28–Oct. 4, 2025) and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making Peter’s story especially timely. It’s a reminder that hereditary cancer risk does not discriminate by gender — and silence is the most dangerous symptom of all. Resources & Links: Peter Cornell’s Music: Spotify | Apple Music Peter's Family Business - GlutenFree Goose: Website | Instagram FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered): Website | Advocacy & Action Center | Male Breast Cancer Resources Learn more about the CHEK2 mutation: FORCE: CHEK2 Information 💡 If Peter’s story resonated with you, share this episode with someone who might need to hear it, and follow the podcast on Instagram @PositiveGenePodcast for more conversations about living empowered with hereditary cancer risk. Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. I share from my own experiences as a hereditary cancer previvor and advocate. Please consult your own healthcare providers for personal medical guidance.

Episode Overview Season changes can stir up a lot - especially if you’re living with hereditary cancer risk. In this conversation, Lisa Jacobs shares her framework of “graceful grit” - meeting hard moments with both courage and softness. We talk scanxiety, decision fatigue, and how simple, repeatable practices (breath, micro-goals, ritual, curiosity) help you feel present and grounded before screenings and big health decisions. What You’ll Learn Graceful Grit, Defined: Why pairing compassion with action reduces brittleness and burnout. Scanxiety Tools: Breath patterns, grounding cues, and mantras you can use in waiting rooms and before results. Rituals That Help: Music/playlists, “bring-a-friend” (choosing the right companion), and bite-size scheduling. From Awareness to Alignment: Using body cues (jaw/shoulders/breath) to notice judgment and shift into curiosity. Seasonal Reframes: Using fall as a prompt for letting go, intention setting, and creating space for what’s next. Sticky Takeaways (save these) “Presence isn’t passive — it’s powerful.” “Name it to tame it: This is scanxiety. It’s a real, natural response.” “Reduce the size of the moment: this is one wave, not the whole ocean.” “Ask: What am I in control of right now? Breath, posture, environment, support.” “If you don’t feel the feelings, they’ll find you — balance grace with grit.” Try-It-Now Practices 5 breaths: Slow inhales/exhales; by breath #5 your nervous system starts to follow. 4-4-6 breath: Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 6 (let out more than you take in). Grounding: Feet on the floor, soften jaw/shoulders, notice 3 things you can see/hear/feel. Micro-goal: One tiny completion (send the message, pack your bag, make the playlist). Curiosity over judgment: Replace “What if…?” spirals with “I wonder…?” Ritual: A consistent playlist for imaging appointments; a small kindness before/after. Resources Mentioned Practice to the Point: www.practicetothepoint.com Connect with Lisa: LinkedIn (Lisa Jacobs) IG: @practicetothepoint Follow the podcast on IG: @positivegenepodcast Full transcript & extras: www.positivegenepodcast.com Sara’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarakavanaughspeaks/ Review/Share: If this helped you breathe a little easier, share it with a friend who’s facing scans soon. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your health.

SummaryIn this episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh takes the mic on the road in London with Dr. Stefania Vicari and Dr. Hannah Ditchfield of the University of Sheffield. Together, they explore how research into social media is reshaping what we know about hereditary cancer, advocacy, and the very word previvor. Why does this matter? Because our digital footprints tell powerful stories — and understanding them helps us: See how platforms influence stigma, visibility, and advocacy Identify misinformation versus authentic support Recognize the importance of representation and inclusivity in health narratives Give both researchers and clinicians new insight into patient experience This conversation highlights how essential research is in bridging the gap between lived experience, digital culture, and health care.   Resources & Links Mentioned University of Sheffield Cancer Research – Previvorship in the Platform Society: https://sites.google.com/sheffield.ac.uk/previvorship Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/previvorship_research/ Sage Journal: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/20563051251340862 FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered – https://www.facingourrisk.org Lynch Syndrome UK – https://lynch-syndrome-uk.org Alive and Kick’n – https://aliveandkickn.org FORCE XRAY – https://www.facingourrisk.org/XRAY 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app and be sure to follow on Instagram @positivegenepodcast   Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your health.

In this Season 3 premiere of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh sits down with Kristina Coccoluto — a BRCA1 previvor, Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Finisher, and passionate advocate — to explore what it means to face genetic risk and still run forward with purpose.

In this insightful episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh sits down with Dr. Brian Shirts, Associate Professor of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at Vanderbilt University and founder of ConnectMyVariant.org. Together, they explore the powerful potential of family-based genetic outreach as a pathway to preventing hereditary cancer. Dr. Shirts shares the pivotal research discoveries and patient stories that led to the creation of ConnectMyVariant—a nonprofit connecting individuals with shared genetic variants to facilitate life-saving family communication. From building networks of third cousins to training family outreach navigators, this episode highlights a revolutionary model of prevention through connection. Sara also shares her own experience joining the platform, offering listeners a firsthand look at the simple but impactful steps they can take to protect themselves and their families. This conversation is a must-listen for hereditary cancer previvors, survivors, healthcare providers, and advocates alike—offering a new lens on what prevention really means and how each of us can be a link in a life-saving chain. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Connect My Variant: https://connectmyvariant.org FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered – https://www.facingourrisk.org My Faulty Gene – https://www.myfaultygene.org ICARE Registry - https://inheritedcancer.net/ BYU Center for Family History and Genealogy - https://cfhg.byu.edu/ AliveAndKickn (for Lynch Syndrome) – https://www.aliveandkickn.org Positive Gene Podcast Blog – https://positivegenepodcast.com Listen & Subscribe: Find The Positive Gene Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Full episode + blog post here → www.sarakavanaugh.com/podcast Want to support this incredible work?  You can donate to help expand family outreach and cancer prevention efforts here:** every.org/connectmyvariant Note on Timing:This episode was recorded in January 2025, shortly after I began the sign-up process with ConnectMyVariant in December 2024. The process of connecting with others who share my variant took only a few weeks—quick, easy, and incredibly meaningful. While this episode is being published in April 2025, please don’t let the delay suggest the process takes that long. I’m just a one-woman podcast team—and good things are always worth the wait!

Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Genetic Risk, and Breaking Barriers to Screening with Dr. Frederick Gandolfo, Board-Certified Gastroenterologist & Host of The Real GI Doctor Show Episode Overview:In this episode, we’re tackling a tough but critical topic—March's Colorectal Cancer Awareness, genetic risk factors like Lynch Syndrome, and why so many people delay or avoid screening. I sit down with Dr. Frederick Gandolfo, a practicing GI specialist and podcast host of The Real GI Doctor Show, to break down everything from genetic predisposition to common symptoms, early detection strategies, and why colorectal cancer is rising among younger populations. We keep it real and transparent—yes, we talk about things most people don’t like to discuss, like hemorrhoids, colonoscopies, and stool tests. But these conversations are essential for normalizing screening, early detection, and saving lives and Dr. Gandolfo does an amazing job of making complex GI health topics understandable. If you’ve been putting off a colonoscopy or have concerns about your colorectal cancer risk, this episode is for you. Topics Covered: The rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger people & why it's happening Genetic risk factors, including Lynch Syndrome Why people delay or avoid screening & how to overcome these barriers What to expect from a colonoscopy—yes, we even talk about the prep! Alternative screening options if you're not ready for a colonoscopy Practical diet & lifestyle changes to reduce your colorectal cancer risk Resources Mentioned in This Episode: The Real GI Doctor Show – Listen Here Precision Digestive Care (Dr. Gandolfo’s practice in Long Island, NY) – Website Prep Tips Video with Dr. GandolfoFORCE’s Lynch Syndrome Resources – Learn More Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (March) – Get Involved Lynch Syndrome Awareness Day (March 22) – More Info If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, don’t wait—talk to your doctor about screening. Listen & Subscribe: Find The Positive Gene Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Full episode + blog post here → www.sarakavanaugh.com/podcast

Let’s take a moment to protect your peace. I know it is difficult to continue showing up with resilience and purpose when facing uncertainty. Advocacy and action require strength, but strength comes from within. Yet we are facing relentless attacks on healthcare, research, and fundamental rights. It’s exhausting, and some days, it feels like too much. But we cannot pour from an empty cup.  This meditation is my gift to you—my fellow advocates, my community, and especially to the incredible medical and scientific professionals who are navigating these uncertain times with unwavering dedication to do no harm. It is here for you when you need to pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you can protect your peace while continuing the fight for a better world. Take this time for yourself, and know that you are not alone. We are in this together. 💙 Stay in touch:Visit www.sarakavanaugh.com for more resources and ways to connect.Follow along on Instagram: @positivegenepodcast A quick reminder: This meditation is intended as a supportive tool for mindfulness and stress management. It is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice.

In this special in-person episode, Host Sara Kavanaugh visits the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, to speak with Dr. Tuya Pal, Principal Investigator of the ICARE Initiative. ICARE is a groundbreaking registry dedicated to improving access to hereditary cancer expertise, advancing research, and supporting patients and families with hereditary cancer risk. Dr. Pal shares her inspiring journey into hereditary cancer genetics and how ICARE empowers participants with critical updates, personalized resources, and the opportunity to contribute to life-changing research. Learn how the registry is democratizing genetic testing, collaborating globally, and addressing disparities in genetic counseling and testing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating hereditary cancer risk, healthcare providers, or individuals interested in joining a supportive and impactful community. Key Topics Covered: Dr. Pal’s journey into genetics and oncology The mission and impact of ICARE How ICARE supports patients, families, and providers The importance of personalized updates and resources for registrants Addressing health disparities in hereditary cancer care Exciting studies on the horizon, including research on BRCA, CHEK2, and PALB2 How to join registry or sign up to receive the ICARE Newsletter Links Mentioned: Learn more about ICARE and join the registry: InheritedCancer.net Email ICARE: ICARE@inheritedcancer.net Stay Connected: Follow Sara’s personal experience with ICARE on Instagram @positivegenepodcast Visit The Positive Gene Podcast blog for more insights Next Episode:Don’t miss our next episode featuring Dr. Brian Shirts from ConnectMyVariant, an innovative nonprofit helping families communicate about genetic testing and hereditary disease prevention.

In this compelling episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh sits down with Dr. Marleah Dean-Kruzel, a health communication expert, TEDx speaker, and BRCA2 previvor. Dr. Dean-Kruzel is not only a renowned professor of health communication but also a powerful advocate featured in the CDC's Bring Your Brave Breast Cancer Campaign. Together, they delve into the art and science of effective communication—a vital skill for anyone navigating hereditary cancer risk. From advocating for yourself in a medical setting to navigating delicate conversations with family and partners, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and heartfelt insights. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Healthcare Communication: How to advocate confidently for your health during medical appointments and build collaborative relationships with your healthcare team. Family Conversations: Strategies for sharing genetic risk information with family members, managing emotional reactions, and finding supportive allies in your circle. Romantic Partnerships: Tips for discussing genetic risk with partners, from early relationship disclosures to family planning conversations. Practical Tools: Techniques like the Ask Me 3 model, agenda-setting strategies, and perspective-taking communication. Dr. Dean-Kruzel also shares her personal journey with hereditary cancer risk, offering encouragement and wisdom rooted in both research and lived experience. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Marleah Dean-Kruzel’s Website - www.marleahdeankruzel.com Dr. Marleah Dean-Kruzel’s LinkedIn Profile- https://www.linkedin.com/in/marleah-dean-kruzel-phd-10850651/ Dr. Marleah Dean-Kruzel’s TEDx Talk:  How to Make Decisions Based on Uncertain Information - https://youtu.be/6RVpgP_0XTs?si=QBLAJnfCcHELvvAN FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) - www.facingourrisk.org Imerman Angels - https://imermanangels.org/ CDC's Bring Your Brave Campaign Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbDIUIXPsqM Health Literacy Workshop - Digital Health Information: Media Coverage and its Impact on Patients; University of Illinois Cancer Center. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6SqgD98mEM&t=24s ICARE Presentation: Communicating about Inherited Cancer Risk, Uncertainty, and Decision Making: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVWa3RAToUc Selected Research Papers & Infographics can be found on the podcast episode transcript:  www.sarakavanaugh.com/podcast Tune in for an episode filled with practical advice, heartfelt encouragement, and essential tools to navigate one of life’s most vulnerable journeys.   Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your health.

Description: In this insightful episode, Host Sara Kavanaugh sits down with Natalie Samson, Certified Genetic Counselor and founder of Golden Genetics, to discuss the power of integrative genetic counseling. Natalie shares her insights on combining traditional genetic testing with holistic health practices to manage health risks proactively. This episode is timely for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, shedding light on genetic factors and preventive measures. What You'll Learn: The role of genetics in health and disease prevention. How lifestyle, nutrition, and environment impact genetic health. Practical steps for managing health risks associated with pancreatic cancer. Referenced Resources: Natalie Samson, MS, CGC, INHC on Instagram. Golden Genetics Health website: A genetic testing & counseling practice that embraces the best of both modern medicine & alternative practices - an integrative approach. PanCan - Pancreatic Cancer Action Network: organization dedicated to fighting pancreatic cancer in a comprehensive way. NCCN Guidelines FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered: A community-driven organization supporting people affected by hereditary cancer with resources, education, and advocacy. PositiveGenePodcast.com: The official website for The Positive Gene Podcast, featuring blog posts, show notes, and additional resources from each episode. Additional resources and links to studies can be found on Sara's Podcast Page. Subscribe and Follow: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram @positivegenepodcast to never miss an episode! Interested in speaking opportunities or want to sponsor an episode? Contact Sara at sara@sarakavanaugh.com.   Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your health.

Kathy Baker, founder of My Faulty Gene, shares her inspiring story of surviving hereditary cancer and how her nonprofit helps individuals obtain genetic testing and empowers them to manage their risk and take control of their health. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh of The Positive Gene Podcast; visit www.positivegenepodcast.com. Resources Mentioned: My Faulty Gene on Instagram @myfaultygene / www.MyFaultyGene.org / www.familygeneshare.org

In this special episode, I share my personal experiences with miscarriage, hereditary cancer risk, and environmental health to highlight what’s at stake in Election 2024. This isn’t about politics—it’s about ensuring compassionate healthcare access and protecting our well-being. Join me as we explore how voting can be a powerful act of self-advocacy for our health, our families, and our future.

In this episode, I have an insightful conversation with Krista Brown, a registered nurse, cancer prevention coach, and breast cancer survivor with an ATM genetic mutation. Krista shares how she combines her personal experience and professional knowledge to empower others with practical strategies for cancer prevention, nutrition, and self-advocacy. We explore the power of genetic testing and how making informed lifestyle choices can transform lives. Resources Mentioned: Krista Brown on Instagram @cancer.prevention.coach / MyFaultyGene.org / FORCE facingourrisk.org

In this uplifting episode, worship pastor and musician David Curtis shares his powerful journey of faith through two cancer diagnoses and supporting his wife’s cancer battle with host, Sara Kavanaugh. We discuss the importance of community, prayer, and gratitude in overcoming fear, as well as the intersection of faith and medical interventions. David’s story is a heartfelt reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that strength can be found in faith. Listen now for: - The power of community during health challenges - Navigating caregiving with faith - Finding peace amidst uncertainty Find David online at https://www.instagram.com/davidjosiah. Follow the podcast online at www.positivegenepodcast.com.

Join us on ”The Positive Gene Podcast” for a compelling discussion with Alison Tierney, an oncology dietitian who brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to the role of diet in managing hereditary cancer risk. This episode, ”Thriving with Nutrition,” explores how plant-based nutrition and lifestyle adjustments can empower those facing hereditary cancer risks. Tune in to learn actionable tips and gain insights into preventative nutrition from a cancer thriver and expert. Follow Alison on Instagram @wholesome.cancer.nutrition or visit her website: www.wholesomellc.com.

Join us this week on The Positive Gene Podcast as Marina Mukandala, yoga teacher and CEO of L.I.F.E.with Marina, explores the transformative power of yoga in overcoming personal challenges and enhancing holistic wellness. Discover practical insights on using yoga for mental and physical health, ideal for anyone navigating the complexities of hereditary health issues. Tune in for an episode full of inspiration and empowerment.

Join Sara Kavanaugh as she chats with Morgan Wolfgang, a genetic counselor who’s all about making the complex world of hereditary cancer genetics more understandable. They’ll dive into what genetic counseling really involves, how it can guide your health decisions, and why understanding your genetic makeup can be a game-changer in managing cancer risks. It’s a deep dive into the science of genetics with a personal touch. Don’t miss this enlightening talk that could shed light on your health path.

Dive into the heart of Lynch Syndrome Awareness with a special episode that highlights the crucial work of FORCE and the significance of hereditary cancer advocacy with guest, Wenora Johnson. Uncover the essentials of navigating hereditary cancer risks, the importance of community support, and the empowering resources available. Join Sara in a journey of awareness, empowerment, and hope.