The Positive Gene Podcast

In this powerful and uplifting episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, Sara sits down with worship pastor and musician David Curtis to explore how faith can be a source of strength in the face of life’s toughest challenges. David candidly shares his journey through his cancer diagnoses in 2017 and 2023, supporting his wife during her breast cancer battle in 2020, and balancing family life with the d...

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, emphasizin...

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...

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 geneti...

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 Syn...

Episode Summary Welcome to a special bonus episode of "The Positive Gene Podcast," titled "Guided Reflections/Meditation: Soothing the Mind Amidst Health Challenges." In this unique session, your host, Sara Kavanaugh, steps away from the usual format to bring you a soothing guided meditation tailored for anyone grappling with health challenges. Whether you're navigating the uncertainties of heredi...

Are you grappling with feelings of fear and uncertainty after receiving a hereditary cancer genetic test result? You're not alone. 'The Positive Gene Podcast' and host, Sara Kavanaugh, presents 'From Panic to Peace: Navigating Your Genetic Diagnosis Journey,' a deeply empathetic episode that addresses the emotional turmoil and isolation many experience in the wake of such life-altering news. In th...

In this special episode of The Positive Gene Podcast titled "Circle of Support: Empowering Caregivers on the Previvor and Survivor Journey," host Sara Kavanaugh honors National Caregivers Month and Thanksgiving by focusing on the gratitude for caregivers' essential roles for individuals with hereditary cancer syndromes. Sara discusses the emotional challenges and 'scanxiety' associated with regula...

In this enlightening episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh takes you through 'A Candid Guide to Genetic Testing Choices: Four Key Considerations.' With her unique perspective as a hereditary cancer previvor and advocate, Sara provides listeners with an unbiased and detailed exploration of the complex decision-making involved in genetic testing. Delving into the nuances of perso...

Join Sara Kavanaugh on The Positive Gene Podcast as she shares a poignant narrative of her family's encounters with cancer and how these experiences have shaped her approach to health and living. In this episode, Sara transforms the narrative of hereditary inevitability into one of empowerment and informed action. We explore the emotional weight of genetic risk, debunk the myths surrounding cancer...

The Positive Gene Podcast Episode: “Five Ways to Support Loved Ones Through Hereditary Cancer Choices” Explore the intricacies of hereditary cancer mutations and the daunting decisions they can pose with host Sara Kavanaugh. Tune in to learn how to navigate these tough conversations, be it as the decision-maker or a supportive loved one. Understand the Why: Recognize the emotional toll of family h...

In this episode, join Sara as we explore empowerment for those living with hereditary cancer risks. Discovering a hereditary cancer mutation can be a profound moment, raising questions, fears, and even opportunities. As we delve deep, we unravel the different facets of empowerment, from awareness and education to active participation in one's health journey. Through personal anecdotes and evidence...

In this revealing episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh offers an intimate look into her personal journey with hereditary cancer syndromes. Drawing from her own experiences—from her initial diagnosis and emotional challenges to the strength she found in faith and community—Sara provides listeners with insights into navigating the complexities of genetic awareness and proactive...

SHOW NOTES In today's episode, we journey through the less-trodden paths of a genetic diagnosis. With a blend of personal stories and expert insights, we touch upon the emotional, financial, and social facets that come along with it. Whether it's understanding insurance intricacies or navigating family conversations, our aim is to bring clarity and comfort. Remember, every challenge brings an oppo...

The Positive Gene Podcast Episode #2: Lessons Learned While Navigating Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer Genes Show Notes Introduction: Introduction to genetic testing for hereditary cancer genes. An overview of the R.E.A.D.Y. Framework. Disclaimer: Insights are personal, not medical advice. Only 5-10% of cancers are due to inherited gene defects. BEFORE TESTING: Recognize Risks Importance of...

Welcome!  Join Sara Kavanaugh on The Positive Gene Podcast as we navigate hereditary cancer risks with clarity and optimism from the patient perspective. We know navigating the landscape of hereditary cancer risks can feel overwhelming.  But worry not! Through engaging discussions and captivating topics, we'll demystify the world of life with hereditary cancer risk, unraveling its complexities in...