The Positive Gene Podcast

Sara Kavanaugh
  • 5.0 (12)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we empower those navigating hereditary cancer risks with hope and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a hereditary cancer previvor living with Lynch Syndrome (MSH6) and CHEK2 genetic mutations, this show offers a unique perspective on proactive well-being. Drawing on her own experiences and work as an advocate for FORCE, Sara bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and the realities of life as a previvor. Through engaging discussions with experts, advocates, and fellow previvors and survivors, Sara simplifies the complexities of hereditary risk and provides insights that empower listeners to face challenges with confidence. With a background as a communications expert and storyteller, she creates a space where education meets inspiration, and science meets everyday life. Whether you’re managing genetic risk, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how genetics shape our health, this is your space to discover the power of awareness and prevention. Visit www.positivegenepodcast.com to read the podcast blog, explore resources, or book Sara for your next speaking engagement!

  1. 2H AGO

    Alive and Kick’n: David Dubin on Lynch Syndrome, Advocacy, and Moving Forward

    This episode kicks off a five-part series on living with Lynch syndrome, released in recognition of Lynch Syndrome Awareness Day on March 22. When host Sara Kavanaugh was first diagnosed with hereditary cancer mutations, including Lynch syndrome, there were few voices sharing what life with inherited cancer risk actually looked like. One of the first organizations she discovered was AliveandKick’n. What stood out immediately wasn’t just the information they shared, it was how they shared it: honest, approachable, and grounded in the idea that living with Lynch syndrome doesn’t have to mean living in fear. In this episode, Sara speaks with David Dubin, Lynch syndrome survivor, longtime advocate, and co-founder of AliveandKick’n. David shares the story behind his own cancer diagnosis, what it meant to discover his condition was hereditary, and how he and his wife Robin turned that experience into a patient-led organization supporting individuals and families navigating Lynch syndrome. Together they discuss the importance of understanding family history, advances in Lynch syndrome research and treatment, and why awareness still matters, especially as we approach Lynch Syndrome Awareness Day on March 22. In This Episode David’s colorectal cancer diagnosis at age 29 Discovering Lynch syndrome after a second cancer diagnosis Navigating genetic risk within a family Why knowledge and genetic testing can be empowering The founding of AliveandKick’n The impact of community and patient advocacy The Living with Lynch workshop program Advances in Lynch syndrome research including immunotherapy and microsatellite instability What newly diagnosed patients should know Why awareness of family cancer history still matters Key Takeaway:  “It’s not a death sentence. The more you know, the better your opportunity is to treat it and live a long, productive life.” — David Dubin Resources & Links AliveandKick’n Website: https://aliveandkickn.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliveandkickn/ AliveandKick’n Podcast: https://www.aliveandkickn.org/podcast-1 Living with Lynch 2026 Workshops https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeiWL0_UNTGxIeB3whge4S4jwKn8I-yYuhYRKfc7I8tpaGjcQ/viewform Living with Lynch Patient Videos: https://www.aliveandkickn.org/living-with-lynch-videos Lynch Syndrome Information: https://www.aliveandkickn.org/what-is-lynch-syndrome-1 Colon Cancer Coalition: https://coloncancercoalition.org/ Get Your Rear in Gear Races: https://coloncancercoalition.org/get-involved/participate/get-your-rear-in-gear/ IMPORTANT: This episode is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team for personal guidance.

    50 min

  2. FEB 11

    Cancer Vaccines, BRCA1, and the Power of Storytelling: A Conversation with Aliza Friedlander

    Episode Summary In this episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, Sara sits down with Aliza Friedlander, a BRCA1-positive previvor and advocate with the Cancer Vaccine Coalition. Aliza shares her unusual path to genetic testing, what shifted after her sister’s breast cancer diagnosis, and how she ultimately decided on risk-reducing surgery. Together, they unpack what “cancer vaccines” really mean (and why this research is closer than most people realize), plus how storytelling can accelerate awareness, funding, and participation in clinical trials. What We Cover Aliza’s BRCA1 family discovery and why she initially chose not to test The role of anxiety, readiness, and trusted medical support in decision-making What changed after her sister’s diagnosis — and what moved Aliza toward surgery What the Cancer Vaccine Coalition is and why it’s different Cancer vaccines explained in everyday language: treatment, recurrence prevention, and potential future prevention Why storytelling is the bridge between complex science and public action How to share your story without feeling overexposed The message Aliza wants every listener to remember: make informed decisions on your timeline, with people you trust Resources & Links Cancer Vaccine Coalition: https://cancervaccinecoalition.org Follow Cancer Vaccine Coalition (Instagram): @CancerVaccineCoalition Aliza on Instagram: @AlizaFriedlander Aliza’s personal essay (JMore Living): https://jmoreliving.com/2019/10/30/a-personal-story-of-living-with-the-risks/ Referenced research: University of Washington Cancer Vaccine Institute summary: https://www.uwcvi.org/post/2024-a-year-of-clinical-breakthroughs-at-the-cancer-vaccine-institute Referenced publication (PubMed): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36326756/ Visit the podcast blog at www.sarakavanaugh/podcast Find Sara on Instagram @positivegenepodcast Connect / Support If this episode helped you, consider sharing it with someone navigating hereditary cancer risk, survivorship, or prevention decisions. And if you’d like to support this research, visit the Cancer Vaccine Coalition's website to learn about awareness efforts, fundraising, and clinical trial education. IMPORTANT: This episode is for educational and storytelling purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team for personal guidance.

    1h 6m

  3. 12/03/2025

    Your Genes Shouldn’t Be Patented: The Urgent Fight Over PERA with FORCE Public Policy Leader, Lisa Schlager

    Episode Summary This special, urgent episode of The Positive Gene Podcast steps outside our normal publishing schedule because the stakes could not be higher. Congress is considering the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act (PERA) — a bill that would once again allow companies to patent human genes and biomarkers, reversing the 2013 Supreme Court decision that made genetic testing more accessible, competitive, and affordable. Host Sara Kavanaugh, a Lynch Syndrome (MSH6) and CHEK2 previvor, sits down with Lisa Schlager, FORCE’s Vice President of Public Policy, to break down: What PERA is Why it poses a threat to patients, families, and future research How gene patents have harmed patients in the past What returning to a monopoly system would mean for access, cost, and innovation Why Congress is considering this right now And — most importantly — what you can do in minutes to help stop it If PERA becomes law, a single company could control testing for specific genes, raise prices, restrict access, block research, and impact the lives of millions of families navigating hereditary cancer risk and rare diseases. This issue is time-sensitive, with Congress heading into holiday recess. Your voice is needed now.  See links to FORCE's advocacy action center to easily email your legislators! Resources Mentioned FORCE's Advocacy Action Center - Email Your Legislators FORCE's Policy & Advocacy Page - Learn more here Find Your Congressional Legislator here Oppose PERA. - Prewritten Social Posts from FORCE Email Lisa Schlager: lisas@facingourrisk.org Positive Gene Podcast Blog - read full transcript here Connect with Sara on Instagram @positivegenepodcast

    41 min

  4. 11/21/2025

    What We're Not Saying: Hereditary Cancer, Prevention and Public Health with Genetic Counselor, Jennifer Thompson

    Episode Summary In today’s conversation, we dig into the part of cancer conversations that rarely makes headlines -  hereditary cancer risk, prevention, and the systemic barriers that keep people from getting the care they need. My guest, Jennifer Thompson, MS, CGC is a board-certified genetic counselor and founder of HealthyGene, a digital genetic counseling clinic designed to remove barriers to hereditary cancer risk assessment. She specializes in cancer genetics, patient advocacy, and improving early access to testing through education and telehealth. Together, we unpack: Why media coverage around public figures’ diagnoses often misses the prevention angle Why genetic testing isn’t being offered early enough and the very real consequences The Angelina Jolie Effect vs. modern missed opportunities How legislative policies are threatening research, Medicaid access, and public health How people and providers can start earlier, clearer conversations What real self-advocacy looks like How to navigate family conversations about genetic risk The difference between clinical genetic testing and direct-to-consumer kits Why understanding your family history still matters most Resources Mentioned HealthyGene Website: https://myhealthygene.com  Know Your Risk Quiz (free assessment for BRCA & Lynch): available on the HealthyGene homepage: https://www.myhealthygene.com/know-your-risk-quiz Jennifer's Blog: President Biden's Diagnosis: https://www.myhealthygene.com/post/biden-prostate-cancer-brca-risk Find a Genetic Counselor: https://findageneticcounselor.com Listen + Connect Podcast blog + extended show notes: www.positivegenepodcast.com Connect with Jennifer: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/myhealthygene LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthygene/ Connect with Sara/Podcast:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivegenepodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarakavanaughspeaks/ Website:  www.sarakavanaugh.com If you’ve ever felt like the conversation about cancer stops with treatment instead of starting with prevention, this episode is your reminder: Knowledge is power. It’s never too early to ask questions, learn your family history, and take steps to protect yourself and the people you love.

    40 min

  5. 11/05/2025

    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 Group A safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating hereditary cancer risk. facingourrisk.org The Breasties – LGBTQ+ Support Community 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 Tool Search 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 Equality Continuing 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.

    47 min

  6. 10/13/2025

    Living Proof with Author Tiffany Graham Charkosky: Love, Loss, and Lynch Syndrome

    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

    55 min

  7. 09/28/2025

    Living Through Loss, Finding Strength: Peter Cornell on Music, Family, and Male Breast Cancer

    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 | 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.

    46 min

  8. 09/05/2025

    Graceful Grit: Mindfulness Tools for Scanxiety, Uncertainty, and Everyday Courage with Lisa Jacobs, Founder of Practice to the Point

    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.

    46 min
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Trailer

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About

Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we empower those navigating hereditary cancer risks with hope and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a hereditary cancer previvor living with Lynch Syndrome (MSH6) and CHEK2 genetic mutations, this show offers a unique perspective on proactive well-being. Drawing on her own experiences and work as an advocate for FORCE, Sara bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and the realities of life as a previvor. Through engaging discussions with experts, advocates, and fellow previvors and survivors, Sara simplifies the complexities of hereditary risk and provides insights that empower listeners to face challenges with confidence. With a background as a communications expert and storyteller, she creates a space where education meets inspiration, and science meets everyday life. Whether you’re managing genetic risk, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how genetics shape our health, this is your space to discover the power of awareness and prevention. Visit www.positivegenepodcast.com to read the podcast blog, explore resources, or book Sara for your next speaking engagement!

Information

  • Creator
    Sara Kavanaugh
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Positive Gene Podcast

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