In this 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 discuss 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.

Dr. Dean-Kruzel also shares her personal journey with hereditary cancer risk, offering encouragement and wisdom rooted in both research and lived experience.

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

Tune in for an episode filled with practical advice, heartfelt encouragement, and essential tools to navigate one of life’s most vulnerable journeys.

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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:

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.

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 [email protected].

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In Season 2, Episode 8 of The Positive Gene Podcast, Sara Kavanaugh welcomes Kathy Baker, founder of My Faulty Gene, for a powerful conversation about surviving hereditary cancer and the impact of genetic testing. Kathy shares her journey of facing cancer multiple times, the life-changing decision to pursue genetic testing, and her mission to help others manage their risk and access vital resources through her nonprofit.

This episode highlights:

Resources & links mentioned in the episode:

Read the podcast blog, find additional resources or book Sara for a speaking event at www.sarakavanaugh.com!

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In this timely special episode, I set aside the usual format to talk sincerely about what’s at stake in Election 2024 for healthcare, women’s rights, and environmental protections. Drawing from my own experiences with miscarriages, hereditary cancer risks, and an environmental contamination, I share personal stories to highlight how the choices we make at the polls could impact access to compassionate, essential care for women and families.

Policies impacting healthcare, reproductive rights, and environmental safety affect everyone’s quality of life and should be viewed as nonpartisan issues.   This isn’t about politics or parties; it’s about voting for healthcare policies that align with our values and protect our well-being. 

Join me as I explore what these policies mean for our communities, and why voting can be one of the strongest ways to advocate for ourselves and each other.

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Stay Connected:

Thank you for listening, and please consider the power of your vote in shaping our healthcare future.

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In this episode, Sara holds a deeply engaging conversation with Krista Brown, a registered nurse, cancer prevention coach, and breast cancer survivor with an ATM genetic mutation. Krista’s journey goes beyond her medical expertise; it’s a mission driven by her personal story, relentless research, and a desire to help others navigate life with hereditary cancer risks.

Listen as Krista blends her professional knowledge with personal experiences to offer practical strategies on nutrition, lifestyle choices, and self-advocacy. From discussing essential functional foods to revealing why genetic testing can be a game-changer, Krista’s approach is holistic, empowering, and purpose-driven. This episode is not just about prevention—it’s about taking control of your health and making informed decisions that lead to a healthier, more proactive life.

Read the podcast blog, find additional resources or book Sara for a speaking event at www.sarakavanaugh.com!

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David's story is one of courage, community, and the impact of a grateful heart. In this heartfelt conversation, he opens up about:

Through laughter, reflection, and wisdom, David reminds us of the vital role of God’s presence and the power of community in navigating our health struggles. This episode is a faith-filled message of hope, resilience, and the importance of turning to God in our most difficult times. Listen in and find the encouragement you need to take that next step forward.

Read episode transcript and blog here:

Podcast Blog > Season 2 Episode 6 - David Curtis: Faith Over Fear

LINKS TO CONNECT WITH DAVID:

LINKS TO CONNECT TO SARA & PODCAST

RESEARCH MENTIONED IN PODCAST:

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In the latest episode of "The Positive Gene Podcast" titled "Thriving with Nutrition: The Role of Diet in Hereditary Cancer Risk with Oncology Dietician, Alison Tierney," we take a crash course on the crucial impact of diet and lifestyle on managing hereditary cancer risk.

Alison Tierney, a board-certified oncology dietitian and cancer thriver, shares her expertise and personal journey, emphasizing the transformative power of plant-based nutrition and lifestyle medicine in cancer prevention and management. With a decade of experience in oncology nutrition, Alison's insights provide invaluable guidance for anyone navigating the complexities of hereditary cancer, from previvors to survivors.

Discover the full episode (our longest one yet!) for a deep dive into how specific dietary choices can significantly affect cancer risk and survivorship, the role of lifestyle medicine, and Alison’s practical tips for adopting a health-centric lifestyle. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to empower themselves against hereditary cancer risks through informed dietary choices.

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Join us for a heartfelt episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, where Marina Mukandala, an inspiring yoga teacher and CEO of L.I.F.E. with Marina, shares her transformative journey from anxiety to empowerment through yoga. In this episode, Marina opens up about how yoga not only helped her personally overcome intense anxiety but also how it has become a tool for empowering others. With deep insights into the mind-body connection, she offers practical tips and inspiration for anyone looking to embrace yoga for mental and physical health.

This discussion is especially poignant for those in our community dealing with hereditary health challenges, providing hope and a reminder that you are never alone. Tune in to discover how mindfulness and movement can be integrated into your daily life, bringing peace and resilience on your health journey.

Don't miss out on the full experience:

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In this season's second episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh navigates the complex world of genetics with special guest Morgan Wolfgang, a genetic counselor with a passion for hereditary cancer prevention. With expertise from Vanderbilt School of Medicine and a commitment to making genetic services accessible, Morgan shares invaluable insights into how understanding our genetic makeup can shape our healthcare choices.

The conversation navigates through the crucial roles of genetic counselors, demystifying genetics for patients, and the emotional journey accompanying genetic testing. Morgan emphasizes the importance of personalized care, addressing the unique emotional and psychosocial needs of each individual facing hereditary cancer risks.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the genetic counseling process, from the initial referral to post-test guidance, and the critical distinction between genetic predisposition and destiny. The episode also explores accessible genetic testing options, preventative measures, and strategies for coping with the emotional impact of genetic findings.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to empower themselves with knowledge about their hereditary health risks, offering a blend of professional expertise and compassionate counseling to navigate the genetics landscape confidently. Join Sara and Morgan in this informative journey at www.positivegenepodcast.com, and dive deeper into the world of hereditary cancer and genetic testing.

Links referenced in this episode:  

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In this exciting kickoff to Season 2 of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh shares an enriching conversation with Wenora Johnson, the President of the FORCE* Board of Directors.  

As a three-time cancer survivor and Lynch Syndrome advocate, Wenora shares her remarkable journey through adversity, the power of genetic awareness, and the transformative work of FORCE.

Highlighting Lynch Syndrome Awareness Day, this episode underscores the critical role of community, knowledge, and proactive health management in navigating the hereditary cancer landscape.

Join us for an inspiring session that reaffirms the indomitable spirit inherent in every previvor and survivor.

*FORCE = Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered:  Their mission is to improve the lives of individuals and families facing hereditary cancer.  Learn more at www.facingourrisk.org.  

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