Shows
DNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#18-Stats, Stories, and Science: Rethinking Research in Genetic CounselingIn this episode, we talk to two genetic counselors about their recent publications in a special edition of the Journal of Genetic Counseling focused on research methods in genetic counseling. First, Benjamin Helm delves into statistical approaches and discusses how transparency and honesty in research can lead to more meaningful scientific contributions. Then Kennedy Borle explores the challenges and benefits of integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches in genetic counseling research.
Segment 1: “Research methods in genetic counseling: Statistical approaches and resources”
Benjamin M. Helm, PhD, MS, CGC, is an Associate Professor of Clinic...
2025-07-311h 13DNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#17-Patient Understanding of Sex and Gender in cell-free DNA ScreeningIn this episode, we explore the motivations, findings, and clinical implications of a recent study examining patient understanding of the terms “sex” and “gender” in the context of prenatal testing, particularly non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT).
“Patient understanding of fetal sex versus gender in the context of routine cell-free DNA screening”
Mindy Kolodziejski (she/her) is a Senior Genetic Counselor at University of Kentucky (UK) HealthCare and a graduate of the UTHealth Houston Genetic Counseling Program (UTGCP). She is the first author of "Patient understanding of fetal sex versus gender in the context of rout...
2025-06-2627 min
Just AskingGenetic Testing KitsThis week, Canada's privacy commissioner found that DNA testing company 23andMe didn't have adequate data protections in place, when hackers gained access to roughly 6.9 millions profiles on the site. The commissioner also revealed that some of the stolen information was later being sold online. So how much information are these tests gathering, and what could users' data be used for? And if you're looking for quick access to genetic information, how accurate are these tests and what can they tell you? To answer your questions, Just Asking spoke to two guests. Brent Arnold is a Partner and litigator at Gowlin...
2025-06-2142 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#16-Cancer Care: Surgical Genetic Testing & Pancreatic Cancer ScreeningIn this episode we are exploring two publications related to cancer care. In our first segment we talk to 2 authors about their research on genetic counselors and identification of patients for high-risk pancreatic cancer screening. In our second segment, Khalida interviews a genetic counselor about their study to evaluate surgical patient perspectives of genetic testing provided by a non-genetics professional.
Segment 1: “Practices and perspectives of genetic counselors about high-risk pancreatic cancer screening: A cross-sectional survey study”
Amy Wiegand is a board-certified genetic counselor who specializes in cancer genetics. She graduated with her Master’s in Genetic...
2025-05-2952 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#15-DNA Day: Unexpected DTC Results & Gender Diverse CareIn this episode we feature 2 articles that explore hot topics in genetics as well as opportunities to improve patient care in honor of DNA Day on April 25. DNA day commemorates the completion of the Human Genome Project and the discovery of DNA’s double helix. Both of these studies utilize qualitative methodologies to highlight people’s experiences and share their stories.
Segment 1: Not Parent Expected” results through direct-to-consumer genetic testing
Julia Becker (she/her) is a board-certified genetic counselor and CSU Stanislaus Genetic Counseling Program graduate. She has a strong interest in the ethical, psychological, and social implic...
2025-04-2454 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#14- Cardio & Genetics: Exploring Revenue & Best PracticesIn this episode, we are discussing 2 articles focused on cardiovascular genetics. In the first segment, Khalida talks to authors Marianne and Erin about their research exploring the opportunities for downstream revenue of cardiac genetic counseling services in a pediatric medical center. In the second segment, Naomi chats with Jodie and Erin about the recent NSGC Practice Resource about genetic testing and counseling for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Segment 1: Cardiac genetic counseling services: Exploring downstream revenue in a pediatric medical center
Marianne Olson, MS, CGC is a genetic counselor at Baptist Health in Kentucky. She provides prenatal genetic...
2025-03-2756 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#13- Rare Disease Day 2025: Digital Tools for Rare Conditions & Navigating Ultra-rare DisordersIn this episode we are exploring rare and ultra-rare disease in honor of Rare Disease Day on February 28 which raises awareness for the 300 million people worldwide living with a rare disease. We are talking with one author about their study on the role of digital tools in rare disease management and another author about their research into experiences of parents who have a child with an emerging-ultrarare disorder.
Segment 1: Exploring the role of digital tools in rare disease management: An interview-based study
Andrea Chang works as a Genomic Science Liaison at Quest Diagnostics and earned...
2025-02-2748 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#12-Genetic Testing in the General Population: Communication and UnderstandingOn This Episode We Discuss:
In this episode we explore genetic testing in low risk populations, both in direct-to-consumer and clinical settings. We interview authors on two recent JoGC papers related to topics of communication of health risks, understanding of genetic testing, and informed decision-making. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1: An analysis of direct-to-consumer genetic testing portals and their communication of health risk and test limitations
Nicole Lee is an associate professor of communication in t...
2025-01-3043 min
DNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling ResearchDNA Today: Genetics Wrapped 2024: Top Advances in Genomic MedicineWe’re thrilled to share a special episode drop from one of our producers, Kira Dineen, and her flagship podcast, DNA Today! As a multi award winning genetics podcast with over 12 years of groundbreaking episodes, DNA Today explores the latest in genetics and genomics through expert interviews and engaging discussions.
To celebrate the new year, this episode reflects back on the top genetics and genomics news stories during 2024. The top stories we chatted about are from the American Journal of Human Genetics’ “Genomic medicine year in review: 2024” paper.
Joining Kira Dineen for this disc...
2025-01-0249 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#11-Dystrophinopathies: A Practice Resource from the National Society of Genetic CounselorsIn this episode we discuss the recent National Society of Genetic Counselor’s Practice Resource on Dystrophinopathies, which was recently published in JoGC, with two of the publications’ authors. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1: “Genetic counseling for the dystrophinopathies- Practice resource of the National Society of Genetic Counselors”
Ann Martin, MS, CGC is a board certified genetic counselor with Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD). Ann serves as the VP of Community Research and Genetic Se...
2024-12-2630 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#10- Family Health History: Communication and Decision MakingIn this episode we discuss two papers that highlight the importance of communication around family health history and the influence of family beliefs on genetic testing decisions. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1: ““Family health beliefs and cascade genetic testing in Asian families with hereditary cancer risk: “Okay, now what?””
Leena Tran began her career as a cancer genetic counselor at Cedars-Sinai in 2022, after completing her Master's of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling at Stanford Uni...
2024-11-2844 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#9 Black Previvor and Survivor Breast Cancer Genetic Testing ExperiencesIn this episode we discuss a research study that focuses on Black women who tested positive for a pathogenic variant associated with an increased risk for breast cancer. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website. Please note that the terminology used refers to women to reflect the language used in the paper, and all genders can have a risk to develop breast cancer.
Segment 1: “A qualitative study of Black breast cancer previvors' and survivors' experiences after positive genetic testing”
Malika Sud...
2024-10-3144 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#2 Intersection of the Disability Community and Genetic Counseling Training/PracticeIn our second episode, we explore two recent articles focusing on the intersection of the disability community and genetic counseling training and practice.
Segment 1: “Disability education and implications for genetic counselor training”
Lauren Douglas (she/her) serves as an oncology genetic counselor and supervisor for graduate student rotations at MHealth Fairview in Minneapolis, MN. She received a degree in Genetic Counseling from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in 2021. Outside of work, she finds joy in practicing yoga, enjoying the outdoors, and cheering on her...
2024-10-0845 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#8 Neurogenetics: Predictive Testing for ALS and Dynamic Coping in Pediatric Ataxia-TelangiectasiaIn this episode we discuss research on patient and family experiences in neurogenetics. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1: “Individuals' experiences in genetic counseling and predictive testing for familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis”
Connolly Steigerwald is a certified genetic counselor at NYU Langone Health’s Division of Neurogenetics and Lysosomal Storage Disorders Program in NYC, where she assists in providing evaluations and genetic counseling for those with suspected or confirmed neurogenetic disorders. Her clinic population includes those with neu...
2024-09-2649 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#7 Simulation and Leadership Development in Clinical Training for Genetic CounselorsGuests include Megan Cho to discuss her paper, “Beyond multiple choice: Clinical simulation as a rigorous and inclusive method for assessing genetic counseling competencies” as well as Amanda Polanski and Ashley Kuhl to discuss their paper, “Leadership development in genetic counseling graduate programs.”
In this episode we discuss clinical training by exploring papers that discuss clinical simulation and leadership development. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1 “Beyond multiple choice: Clinical simulation as a rigorous and inclusive...
2024-08-2945 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#6 Exploring Abortion Care: Reproductive Justice and Healthcare Professional Training in the Face of Changing LegislationGuests include Gina Sanchez to talk about her paper, “Status of abortion curriculum in genetic counseling: Survey of graduate programs and recent graduates in the United States” and Dr. Holly Rankin to discuss her paper, “Termination counseling among US perinatal genetic counselors in the setting of second trimester fetal anomalies.”
Segment 1:
Gina Sanchez, MS, MB(ASCP), CGC is a genetic counselor and Instructor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at the McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She received a BS in Zoology from Texa...
2024-07-2531 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#5 Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS) and Fetal Sex PredictionIn this episode we discuss navigating non-invasive prenatal screening, also known as non-invasive prenatal testing, by reviewing two articles covering genetic counseling insights, informed consent challenges, and inclusive practices. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1 “Genetic counseling for fetal sex prediction by NIPT: Challenges and opportunities”
Chelsea Stevens is a clinical and research genetic counselor in the cardiovascular genetics clinic at Brigham and Women's Hospital. She has been working at BWH since 2022 and works primari...
2024-06-2748 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#4 Discussing Gender Inclusive Terminology and Gender-Affirming Hereditary Cancer CareIn our fourth episode, we delve into the importance of gender-inclusive language in genetic counseling and the specific challenges transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals face in accessing hereditary cancer care. You can find these articles in a special virtual issue of the Journal of Genetic Counseling which is free and open access for the month of June. You can find the Journal of Genetic Counseling webpage via onlinelibrary.wiley.com or via the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Segment 1 “Use of gender-inclusive language in genetic counseling to optimize patient care”
Heather...
2024-05-3043 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#3 Diagnostic Odysseys with Secondary and No Primary FindingsTo celebrate DNA Day we are releasing our April episode exploring concepts related to the diagnostic odyssey, whole genome sequencing, and results returned.
Segment 1: A Journey of Hope and Resilience
In our first segment, we delve into the research conducted by Celine Lewis, focusing on the emotional impact of receiving a "no primary finding" (NPF) result from genome sequencing. This recent JoGC paper is titled, “The disequilibrium of hope: A grounded theory analysis of parents' experiences of receiving a “no primary finding” result from genome sequencing.”
Celine's study uncove...
2024-04-2542 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling Research#1 Rare Disease Family Experience (Chromosome 18 Conditions and Pediatric Oncology)Welcome to the first episode of DNA Dialogues! Today is February 29th, 2024. It is a leap year, so today marks an extra special rare disease day.
Rare diseases can impact so many people - from patients themselves, to families, to broader communities. To celebrate rare disease day, we are going to dive into two recent articles from the Journal of Genetic Counseling that showcase the rare disease experience. The following interviews provide insight into the wider impact of rare disease, with a special focus on families.
Segment 1: “Understanding type and quality of re...
2024-02-2943 minDNA Dialogues: Conversations in Genetic Counseling ResearchIntroducing DNA DialoguesWelcome to DNA Dialogues, where we dive into the intricate world of genetic counseling research. We are excited to announce our pilot episode will be released on Rare Disease Day 2024 (Thursday February 29th).
Listen for a sneak peek at what is coming up on the podcast.
Join us as we peel back the layers of groundbreaking articles from the Journal of Genetic Counseling, bringing you exclusive discussions with the authors themselves. Each episode sparks a vibrant exchange, exploring the latest discoveries, ethical dilemmas, and technological advances that are shaping the future of medical genetics.
F...
2024-02-2702 min
CMAJ PodcastsPharmacogenomic testing: billion-dollar savings in depression treatmentSend us a textOn this episode, Drs. Blair Bigham and Mojola Omole discuss the CMAJ paper "Cost-effectiveness of pharmacogenomic-guided treatment for major depression". The paper examines the potential of pharmacogenomic testing in the treatment of major depression and its implications for health care costs.The study suggests that implementing pharmacogenomic testing for adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder in British Columbia could save the health system about $956 million over 20 years, equating to roughly $4,926 per patient.The hosts interview the study's authors, Dr. Jehannine Austin, Professor of Psychiatry and Medical Genetics...
2023-12-1126 min
The Reflective Mind PodcastGenetic Counseling: A Lifeline for Patients and Families, with Laynie Dratch ScM, CGCDuring some of our most difficult moments, genetic counselors can help us make critical decisions about our health and the future of our family members. Join Jennifer Reid, MD as she learns all about genetic counseling from Laynie Dratch, ScM, Certified Genetic counselor. Discussed in this Episode:1) How does the "counseling" part of genetic counseling work?2) Why is Laynie so concerned about the increase in direct-to-consumer genetics testing like 23 and Me?3) How does she help individuals through the identity challenges when they learn about genetic risks?4) What gives her ho...
2023-12-0844 min
Behind the GenesAmanda Pichini, Jonathan Roberts and Emma Walters: How can Genetic Counsellors improve care through research?Genetic Counsellors play an important part in healthcare and research. This Genetic Counsellor Awareness Day we focus on the role genetic counsellors have in research, to help improve care for patients and families.
On this episode of the G Word, Amanda Pichini, Clinical Lead for Genetic Counselling at Genomics England, is joined by Emma Walters, member of the Participant Panel at Genomics England, and Jonathan Roberts, NHS Genetic Counsellor and Clinical Content Developer at Genomics England. Emma shares her personal story and our guests delve into the impact of not having access to genetic counselling. They explore...
2023-11-0951 min
Demystifying GeneticsPedigrees, Pronouns, and Progress: Shaping Inclusive Genetics Tools with TrakGene. Demystifying Genetics with Kathryn van DiemenWe're thrilled to welcome Kathryn van Diemen, a data aficionado turned genetic counsellor, who shares her captivating journey and current role at TrackGene. From discovering her love for data and genetics to exploring rugby fields and engaging in playful tussles with her Cockerspaniel, Pepper, Kathryn lets us in on the world behind the white coat!
Tune in as we discuss the seismic shifts in genetic counselling education, with much more comprehensive courses now available compared to our and Kathryn's student days. You'll hear all about the significant contributions of Alison McEwan in introducing the data management aspect...
2023-09-2734 min
Unconditional & Uncensored9. Riding the rollercoaster that is BipolarIn this episode, Renate shares her personal story and experience since being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder in 2019. Join us as we look at what bipolar disorder actually is, how it’s treated, and what it means for the future. 🤗
In the episode, we refer to a podcast episode by Dr. Jehannine Austin on the genetics of bipolar disorder, which you can find here: (Apple / Spotify). If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or think that you have it - or are just struggling generally with depression, here are some resources for you:
AUSTRALIA
Beyo...
2023-08-101h 02
DNA Today: A Genetics Podcast#243 PhenoTips: Navigating Barriers in LGBTQIA+ Genetic CareWe are closing out Pride Month with a recent installment of the PhenoTips Speaker Series. DNA Today’s host Kira Dineen is also one of the hosts of the PhenoTips Speaker Series. This live webinar focuses on relevant genetics topics by featuring discussions with thought leaders and experts in genomic medicine. This episode is the 24th installment of the PhenoTips’ Speaker Series, “Navigating Barriers in LGBTQIA+ Genetic Care”.
A 2018 Harvard study found that nearly 1/6th of LGBTQIA+ adults have experienced discrimination in a healthcare setting, while 1/5th have avoided seeking medical care out of fear of discrim...
2023-06-301h 04
PhenoTips Speaker Series: A Genetics PodcastDr. Jehannine Austin, Andy Cantor, Josephine Giblin, and Katie Gallagher on Navigating Barriers in LGBTQ+ Genetic CareInternational genetic counselors, and LGBTQ+ community members, advocates, educators, and researchers, Dr. Jehannine Austin, Andy Cantor, Josephine Giblin, and Katie Gallagher, discuss protecting patients during times of unprecedented legislation, creating psychologically safe and inclusive environments, supporting access to equitable care, representation in family history collection, and resources and best practices to support LBGTQ+ colleagues and patients.
2023-06-191h 02
talkBD Bipolar Disorder PodcastThe Genetics of Bipolar Disorder: Causes, Risks & Genetic Testing | Dr. Jehannine Austin | EP. 33 🧬Neuropsychiatric geneticist Dr. Jehannine Austin offers a fascinating insight into “bipolar gene” and “bipolar jar”, genetic and environmental factors that increase the risk for bipolar disorder, the latest in genetic testing for bipolar disorder, and what you should know before having children as a parent with bipolar disorder.
Hosted by Dr. Erin Michalak.
Dr. Jehannine Austin is the Executive director of the BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Research Institute and Professor in Psychiatry & Medical Genetics. Dr. Austin is a board-certified genetic counselor and their research work involves studying the impact of genetic counseling for peop...
2023-05-1654 min
Nice Genes!The Right MedsCan genomics find the perfect antidepressant for your body?[TW:MH,MI]This episode discusses mental health and mental illness. If you, or someone you know, needs support, call the BC Mental Health Support Line at 310-6789 or find Canada-wide resources right here.The world of pharmacology helps a lot of people manage mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. But, frankly, it can often be a bumpy road to discover the right medication for your body.Dr. Kaylee Byers speaks with award-winning Genetic Counselor Dr. Jehannine Austin...
2022-06-2135 min
The Beagle Has Landed PodcastJehannine Austin on Psychiatric Genetics and CounselingToday on The Beagle, one of the rock stars of the genetic counseling field, Jehannine Austin, Professor of Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia. Jehannine has pioneered the field of psychiatric genetic counseling and, more broadly, they have worked energetically for decades to make psychiatric genetic counseling – and all genetic counseling -- an evidence-based discipline.
2022-03-0800 min
Real Talk Ryan JespersenNovember 15, 2021 - AB Childcare Deal; Canada 5G; Queer Evangelist; Psychiatric Genetic Counselling13:34 | Computer security expert Dr. Tom Keenan on possible exclusion of Chinese vendor, Huawei Technologies, from Liberal government’s plans and policy on next-generation 5G mobile networks in Canada.
23:03 | Families, Children & Social Development Federal Minister Karina Gould shares about today's announcement around affordable childcare coming to Alberta.
38:05 | Reverend Dr. Cheri DiNovo details pushing and leading the church and government for equality and representation for those in the 2SLGBTQ community.
1:07:20 | From the world's first specialist psychiatric genetic counselling clinic, Dr. Jehannine Austin explains how genetic counselling for people living with psychiatric disorders helps lessen stigma and...
2021-11-151h 55
Rosé & DNA"I only follow rules if they make sense": R&D with Genetic Counselor Dr. Jehannine Austin, CCGC/CGCFCAHSTo kick off Season 2 of Rosé and DNA, we spoke with Dr. Jehannine Austin (she/they)! Dr. Austin is THE leading psychiatric genetic counselor, studying how to deliver personalized genetic information for psychiatric conditions to individuals. As a past President of the National Society of Genetic Counselors and thought-leader for the field, Dr. Austin has some thoughts about what it means to be a genetic counselor. In this episode we follow Dr. Austin's academic and professional journey, and get vulnerable as we dive into their experience as a nonbinary/agender person in STEM. Causes Dr. Austi...
2021-09-081h 07
Family Caregivers Unite!When and Why Genetic Counselling is EssentialDr. Jehannine Austin is an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, Canada, a Research Scientist at the BC Mental Health and Addictions Institute, http://www.bcmhari.ca/faculty/austin-jehannine.php, and graduate advisor for the UBC Genetic Counseling program. She talks about her career and her experience with family caregiving. She describes her work in genetic counseling and explains the purposes of genetic counseling. She describes how a strong family history of breast cancer becomes a worrisome family history, and highlights the various challenges for individuals, families, and future generations. She discusses the role of...
2014-05-1257 minFamily Caregivers Unite!What a Family History of Schizophrenia Tells UsDr. Chris Summerville is the CEO of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada, www.schizophrenia.ca, and Executive Director of the Manitoba Schizophrenia Society. Dr. Jehannine Austin, http://www.bcmhari.ca/faculty/austin-jehannine.php, is an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC, Canada, a Research Scientist at the BC Mental Health and Addictions Institute, and graduate advisor for the University’s Genetic Counseling program. They highlight schizophrenia’s statistics and genetics. They discuss what a family history of schizophrenia tells or does not tell the family about the likelihood that schizophrenia will develop in its current or f...
2014-05-0554 min