Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we help to light the path for those navigating hereditary cancer risks with empowerment and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a cancer previvor and your guide through the world of genetics and proactive well-being from the patient perspective. Join us as we simplify the complexities, providing insights that empower you to confidently face challenges. Through engaging discussions, we’ll bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and everyday life of a cancer previvor or survivor. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of genetic awareness and join a community that embraces positivity through knowledge. Subscribe now for a dose of empowerment in every episode.
All content for The Positive Gene Podcast is the property of Sara Kavanaugh and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we help to light the path for those navigating hereditary cancer risks with empowerment and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a cancer previvor and your guide through the world of genetics and proactive well-being from the patient perspective. Join us as we simplify the complexities, providing insights that empower you to confidently face challenges. Through engaging discussions, we’ll bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and everyday life of a cancer previvor or survivor. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of genetic awareness and join a community that embraces positivity through knowledge. Subscribe now for a dose of empowerment in every episode.
Hereditary Cancer Risk Through an LGBTQ+ Lens with Genetic Counselor Maddie Williamson
The Positive Gene Podcast
46 minutes
1 week ago
Hereditary Cancer Risk Through an LGBTQ+ Lens with Genetic Counselor Maddie Williamson
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.
The Positive Gene Podcast
Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we help to light the path for those navigating hereditary cancer risks with empowerment and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a cancer previvor and your guide through the world of genetics and proactive well-being from the patient perspective. Join us as we simplify the complexities, providing insights that empower you to confidently face challenges. Through engaging discussions, we’ll bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and everyday life of a cancer previvor or survivor. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of genetic awareness and join a community that embraces positivity through knowledge. Subscribe now for a dose of empowerment in every episode.
