The Positive Gene Podcast

Protect Your Peace: A Meditation for Strength and Resilience in Advocacy and Action

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.

Empowering the Hereditary Cancer Community: ICARE at Vanderbilt with Dr. Tuya Pal

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.

Communicating Genetic Risk with Confidence Across Family, Healthcare, and Relationships with Marleah Dean Kruzel, Ph.D.

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.

From Risk to Resilience: Integrative Genetic Counseling and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness with Genetic Counselor, Natalie Samson

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.

My Faulty Gene: Empowering Lives Through Genetic Testing with Kathy Baker

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:
Kathy’s personal story and the turning point that led to her genetic testing.
How My Faulty Gene supports underrepresented communities in accessing genetic testing and counseling.
The importance of understanding your risk to take action for yourself and those closest to you.
Resources & links mentioned in the episode:
My Faulty Gene: A nonprofit organization providing resources and support for underrepresented individuals seeking genetic testing and counseling (@myfaultygene on IG).
Family Gene Share: An initiative offering compelling video stories and tools like QR codes to help families share genetic health information and encourage testing from the team at My Faulty Gene.
Connect My Variant: A nonprofit connecting individuals with shared genetic mutations to trace common ancestry and raise hereditary cancer awareness.
FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered: A community-driven organization supporting people affected by hereditary cancer with resources, education, and advocacy.
JScreen: A public health initiative offering accessible genetic testing and education for cancer and other hereditary conditions.
Kick BRCA: A nonprofit founded by two sisters to increase awareness and provide resources for BRCA-related cancer risks.
Interact Coalition: A collaborative group of genetic testing labs and advocacy organizations working to shape the future of genetic testing and hereditary cancer care.
PositiveGenePodcast.com: The official website for The Positive Gene Podcast, featuring blog posts, show notes, and additional resources from each episode.
Read the podcast blog, find additional resources or book Sara for a speaking event at www.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.

Election 2024: Sara’s Personal Stories on Healthcare and the Power of Your Vote

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.
Topics Covered:
The impact of healthcare policies on women’s health and hereditary cancer risk management
Environmental health risks, including PFAS contamination, and the importance of regulatory protections
Personal reflections on the role of faith, compassion, and self-advocacy in healthcare
Resources Cited:
ProPublica: Reporting on reproductive healthcare access and the “chilling effect” on emergency care providers
Coalition on Human Needs: Insights on the Inflation Reduction Act and Medicare benefits
Center for American Progress: Environmental health protections and the role of the EPA in safeguarding communities
Stay Connected:
Follow on Instagram: @positivegenepodcast
Website and Podcast Hub: www.positivegenepodcast.com
Available for speaking, workshops, and community events—let’s connect and continue this conversation.
Thank you for listening, and please consider the power of your vote in shaping our healthcare future.
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.

Genes, Advocacy, and Action: Krista Brown’s Journey as a Nurse, Coach, and Cancer Survivor

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!
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Krista on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancer.prevention.coach/
MyFaultyGene (organization helping provide access to genetic testing): https://myfaultygene.org/
FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (for genetic testing and cancer prevention support): https://www.facingourrisk.org/
Past Episodes Mentioned in this show:
Thriving with Nutrition: The Role of Diet in Hereditary Cancer Risk with Oncology Dietician, Alison Tierney
Rewriting Our Genetic Narratives: Transformative Hope in the Face of Hereditary Cancer Risk
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.

Faith Over Fear: David Curtis on Overcoming Cancer’s Challenges Through Music and Spiritual Strength

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 demands of ministry—all while leaning on God for guidance and peace.
 
David's story is one of courage, community, and the impact of a grateful heart. In this heartfelt conversation, he opens up about:
His initial reaction to his cancer diagnoses and how his faith in God and the support of his community helped him overcome fear.
Managing the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving while continuing his responsibilities as a father and worship pastor.
Keeping an open heart in the face of uncertainty and the value of expressing gratitude, even during life’s hardest moments.
The intersection of faith and medical science, and finding peace in accepting both spiritual support and medical interventions.
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:
David’s LinkTree
David’s Facebook
David’s Instagram
David’s "Arrows" Album on Spotify
RunKidRun on Spotify
SideWalkSlam on Spotify
LINKS TO CONNECT TO SARA & PODCAST
Podcast website:  www.positivegenepodcast.com
Sara’s website/blog:  www.sarakavanaugh.com
FORCE’s website:  www.facingourrisk.org
RESEARCH MENTIONED IN PODCAST:
NIH Research Review:  Personal Prayer in Patients Dealing with Chronic Illness: A Review of the Research: Literature:Jors K, Büssing A, Hvidt NC, Baumann K. Personal prayer in patients dealing with chronic illness: a review of the research literature. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:927973. doi: 10.1155/2015/927973. Epub 2015 Feb 26. PMID: 25815041; PMCID: PMC4357134.
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.