In this conversation, Dr. Chaya Murali discusses the importance of understanding autism, the role of genetic testing, and the impact of misinformation surrounding vaccines and autism. She emphasizes the need for families to seek reliable resources and support while navigating the complexities of neurodivergence. The conversation also highlights the emotional aspects of parenting children with autism and the importance of empathy in medical practice. Key Takeaways: Many genetic conditions can co-...
Jun 24, 2025•52 min•Ep. 27
In this conversation, Kim Zayhowski discusses the distinctions between sex and gender, emphasizing that sex is biological while gender is a social construct. She explores the complexities of chromosomes, the fluidity of gender identity, and the implications of societal norms on individual expression. The discussion also touches on the weaponization of scientific terminology in policy-making, the intersection of transphobia and misogyny, and the importance of recognizing diverse gender identities...
Jun 17, 2025•44 min•Ep. 26
In this conversation, Eric Green discusses the role of the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) in leading the Human Genome Project and advancing genomic research. He shares his journey at NHGRI, highlighting the significant progress made in genomic medicine, including the All of Us Research Program, which aims to collect genomic and health data from a diverse population. Dr. Green emphasizes the importance of public sector involvement in data sharing and the challenges faced in geno...
Jun 10, 2025•52 min•Ep. 25
In this conversation, Dr. Shelley Sella discusses her book “Beyond Limits: Stories of Third-Trimester Abortion Care” and her experiences in providing third trimester abortion care. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the circumstances that lead individuals to seek such care, the emotional and psychological aspects involved, and the need for compassionate support. The discussion also touches on the legal implications surrounding abortion, the safety of the procedures, and the necessity...
Jun 03, 2025•39 min•Ep. 24
This is a replay of our bonus episode that was released on March 28, 2025 and prior to Regeneron Pharmaceuticals purchasing 23andMe. Regeneron entered the asset purchase agreement on May 19, 2025 and states it plans to maintain the consumer genetics business. Regeneron also stated it would prioritize the privacy, security and ethical use of 23andMe's customer data. See more about the announcement here. In this episode, we explore the complexities of genetic data privacy, particularly in light of...
May 27, 2025•38 min•Ep. 23
In this conversation, we delve into the complexities surrounding intersex and transgender identities, focusing on medical ethics and the importance of patient autonomy. Our guest, Kaitlyn Brown, discusses their advocacy for the intersex community, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed care in healthcare settings. We talk about the differences between intersex and transgender identities, the prevalence of intersex conditions, and the challenges faced by parents of intersex children. The d...
May 20, 2025•59 min•Ep. 22
We are featuring an episode from another podcast on Gene Pool Media, DNA Today. True crime dominates the podcasting world, but what about the genetic aspects behind these cases? In this episode of DNA Today, we dive into the pivotal role of DNA in forensic science with Dr. Henry Erlich, a pioneer in DNA analysis and a key figure in developing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology. His work has transformed the criminal justice system, from solving cases to overturning wrongful convictions. D...
May 13, 2025•47 min•Ep. 21
In this episode, Kate talks to Matt Hay about is book, “Soundtrack of Silence”. Matt opens up about his experience with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a genetic condition that led to profound hearing loss- and ultimately, the creation of his memoir, “Soundtrack of Silence: Love, Loss, and a Playlist for Life”. We explore his and his wife’s journey with IVF and preimplantation genetic testing, how they faced life-changing diagnoses together, and why his wife is the true hero of his story. Matt t...
May 06, 2025•41 min•Ep. 20
In this conversation, Barry Tong discusses the complexities of cancer genetics, emphasizing the intersection of genetic factors and public health. He explains how cancer arises from both genetic predispositions and environmental influences, and the importance of personalized risk assessments. The discussion also highlights the role of family history in cancer risk, and the challenges faced by patients navigating a cancer diagnosis, and the need for accessible genetic services in underserved comm...
Apr 29, 2025•33 min•Ep. 19
In this conversation, Kevin Alexander shares his personal journey living with PKU (phenylketonuria) and his passion for newborn screening advocacy. He discusses the importance of dietary therapy, the challenges of navigating insurance coverage for treatment, and the critical role of newborn screening in early detection. We discuss the recent policy changes enacted without warning by the current administration and how that impacts newborn screening practices. Kevin shares personal stories and exp...
Apr 22, 2025•48 min•Ep. 18
In this conversation, Priscila discusses Parkinson's disease, its genetic and environmental factors, and the role of genetic counseling. She highlights the PD Generation study, which aims to increase awareness and understanding of Parkinson's disease, particularly in diverse communities. Priscila emphasizes the need for inclusive research and the role of language access in genetic counseling, sharing her personal motivations for advocating for better access to care and information for all indivi...
Apr 15, 2025•38 min•Ep. 17
In this conversation, Naomi Wagner (she/her) discusses the intersection of ophthalmology and genetics, focusing on how genes influence eye development and diseases. She explains the complexity of inherited eye conditions, particularly retinitis pigmentosa, and the ongoing research in ocular genetics. The discussion also explores the inheritance of eye color and the importance of understanding vision impairment in society. Takeaways: Ophthalmologic or ocular genetics explores how genes affect eye...
Apr 08, 2025•36 min•Ep. 16
In today’s episode, Karen Merritt shares her personal journey of advocacy for DPD deficiency awareness following her mother's tragic experience with chemotherapy. The discussion delves into the importance of genetic testing for DPYD mutations before administering certain chemotherapy drugs, the challenges in raising awareness among healthcare professionals, and ongoing advocacy efforts to include DPYD testing in national guidelines. The conversation highlights the critical need for patient educa...
Apr 01, 2025•43 min•Ep. 15
In today’s episode, we explore the complexities of genetic data privacy, particularly in light of 23andMe's recent bankruptcy filing. Anya Prince discusses the implications for customer data, the legal protections in place, and the unique risks associated with genetic information. The discussion also covers the challenges of data de-identification, customer rights regarding data deletion, and the potential for data breaches. The conversation concludes with reflections on the global landscape of ...
Mar 28, 2025•38 min
In this episode of All Access DNA, Dave Dubin discusses his foundation, Alive and Kick’n, which he started after being diagnosed with Lynch syndrome. He explains the importance of awareness and advocacy for Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition that increases the risk of colon and other cancers. The discussion covers the differences between sporadic colon cancer and hereditary forms, the significance of genetic testing, and the personal journey of dealing with cancer at a young age. Dave emphas...
Mar 25, 2025•42 min•Ep. 14
In this conversation, Ellen Matloff, a certified genetic counselor and CEO of My Gene Counsel, discusses the implications of gene ownership and patents, particularly focusing on the BRCA gene patent case against Myriad Genetics. She shares her journey from being a cancer genetic counselor to becoming an individual plaintiff in the gene patent case. We discuss the challenges faced in the legal battle and the impact of the Supreme Court's decision in 2013. The discussion highlights the importance ...
Mar 18, 2025•39 min•Ep. 13
In this episode, Dan “Dry Dock” Shockley shares his journey with attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (AFAP), a hereditary condition that increases the risk of colon cancer. He discusses the discovery of his condition, the importance of genetic counseling, and his proactive approach to managing his health. Dan emphasizes the importance of advocacy, education, and the need to destigmatize living with an ostomy. He talks about the role of humor and resilience in facing health challenges and h...
Mar 11, 2025•36 min•Ep. 12
In this episode of All Access DNA, we talk to Samantha Stover, a reproductive genetic counselor, about prenatal diagnostic testing. We discuss Sam’s journey into genetic counseling, and the differences between screening and diagnostic testing methods such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis. The conversation also touches on the conditions that can be detected through these tests and the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing. Sam emphasizes the importance of informe...
Mar 04, 2025•54 min•Ep. 11
In this conversation, Susanna Smith shares her personal experience with CADASIL. The discussion explores the evolving definitions of rare diseases, the importance of accurate classification, and the implications for research and treatment. We cover how insights from rare diseases can inform our understanding of more common conditions. Susanna discusses the complexities of living as a 'previvor'—someone at risk for genetic conditions without symptoms. She explores the emotional and practical impl...
Feb 25, 2025•40 min•Ep. 10
In this conversation, Dr. Susan Weiss Liebman discusses her memoir, 'The Dressmaker's Mirror,' which intertwines her personal journey with a genetic search for a mutation linked to her niece's sudden death. She emphasizes the importance of genetic testing, the cultural heritage of her Jewish family, and the challenges faced in communicating genetic information to family members. We delve into the importance of genetic testing, particularly in relation to cardiomyopathy and other heart conditions...
Feb 18, 2025•47 min•Ep. 9
In today’s episode, Greg Ruf (he/him) talks about his diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy, genetic testing, heart failure, and patient advocacy. He explains the formation of the Dilated Cardiomyopathy Foundation, emphasizing the need for awareness, education, and support for patients. The discussion also highlights the genetic factors associated with the disease, the challenges in diagnosis, and the critical importance of genetic testing to identify at-risk individuals. Greg also addresses the b...
Feb 11, 2025•39 min•Ep. 8
In this conversation, Sarah Bannon discusses the complexities of inherited blood cancers, particularly leukemia, and the evolving role of genetic counseling in understanding and managing these conditions. She highlights the historical context of genetic research in blood cancers, the importance of family history in assessing risk, and the advancements in genetic testing that have led to better identification of hereditary cancer syndromes. The conversation also covers the implications of genetic...
Feb 04, 2025•42 min•Ep. 7
Skip to 03:19 min for episode start if you want to bypass intro. In this episode of All Access DNA, host Kate Wilson interviews Deanna Darnes about the intricacies of genetic counseling and testing. We discuss Deanna's journey into the field, the various reasons individuals seek genetic testing, the challenges faced in accessing these tests, and the complexities surrounding insurance coverage. The conversation also highlights the differences between direct-to-consumer testing and tests ordered t...
Jan 28, 2025•41 min•Ep. 6
In this conversation, Blair Stevens, a prenatal genetic counselor, discusses the importance of prenatal genetics, focusing on screening and testing options available to expectant parents. The conversation covers the differences between screening and diagnostic testing, the types of conditions that can be detected, the accuracy of tests like NIPT or cell free DNA screening, and the role of genetic counselors in guiding families through the process. Additionally, the discussion touches on the emot...
Jan 21, 2025•29 min•Ep. 5
In this conversation, Holly, a genetic counselor, discusses the multifaceted role of genetic counselors, their training, and the importance of genetic counseling in healthcare. She explains the process of genetic counseling, the significance of family history, and the nuances of genetic testing. Holly also addresses the challenges and rewards of being a genetic counselor, emphasizing the emotional aspects of the job and the importance of patient advocacy. The conversation concludes with practica...
Jan 14, 2025•42 min•Ep. 4
In this episode, Dr. Anna Hurst discusses the multifaceted role of geneticists in healthcare, the diagnostic process for genetic conditions, and the importance of understanding dysmorphology. She explains the evolution of genetic testing, the significance of genetic counseling, and the challenges faced in the field, including insurance issues. She shares her personal journey to becoming a geneticist, emphasizing the importance of specialized training and the need for more professionals in the fi...
Jan 07, 2025•48 min•Ep. 3
For more information about this episode, visit allaccessdna.podbean.com, where you can also stream all episodes of the show. This link is also in the show notes for easy access. Any inquiries on the podcast can be sent to AllAccessDNA@gmail.com Note that this podcast is for entertainment and education and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician with any questions you may have regarding your health. Please rate and review the podcast on Ap...
Dec 31, 2024•2 min
What is DNA anyway? Should I consider genetic testing? Can my genes tell my future? All Access DNA answers the questions you have about genetics, healthcare, and popular issues in precision medicine as it relates to our daily lives. We may even veer into territory that is no longer science fiction but science reality. Host Kate Wilson utilizes her genetic expertise and experience to interview leaders and specialists in genomic medicine and research. Join us as we empower everyone to know more ab...
Nov 20, 2024•48 sec
