All Access DNA

In this episode, Megan Johnson discusses the disparities in genomic healthcare, focusing on how healthcare experiences influence participation and trust, especially among underrepresented groups. She explores the genomic healthcare disparity cycle, the importance of diversity in genetic research, and strategies to improve patient engagement and understanding.
 
Key words: genomic healthcare disparities, underrepresented groups, healthcare experience, genetic research, trust in medicine, diversity in genomics, patient engagement, healthcare access, genetic counseling, health equity
 
Key Topics:
The genomic healthcare disparity cycle and its impact
Importance of diversity and inclusion in genetic research
Role of healthcare providers in improving patient trust and understanding
The influence of social determinants on access to genomic healthcare
The potential of community-based research and primary care integration
Steps to address systemic barriers and improve health equity
 
Guest bio:
Megan is a clinical genetic counselor who helps patients and their families understand and make decisions around complex genetic information. Her research into how healthcare experiences shape genomic healthcare disparities grew out of a long-standing commitment to equity, one that took root growing up in a rural community with limited access to specialized care. She's dedicated to making genetic counseling accessible and meaningful for patients of all ages.
 
Resources related to today’s topic:
Johnson, M.D., Hite, A., Richmond, J. et al. Healthcare experiences and the cycle of genomic healthcare disparities: A cross-sectional study utilizing the ‘All of Us’ research program. J Community Genet 17, 88 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12687-026-00921-8
All of Us Research Program from the National Institutes of Health
 
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Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Aryanah Estinvil

Carissa shares her inspiring journey of parenting her son Jack, diagnosed with Down syndrome, and how it led to the creation of Jack's Basket—an organization dedicated to supporting families and changing perceptions about Down syndrome.
 
Keywords: Down syndrome, Jack's Basket, parenting, advocacy, community support, diagnosis communication, celebration, inclusion, healthcare training
 
Key Topics:
The impact of diagnosis communication on families
The role of community and support networks for families with children with Down syndrome
The mission and activities of Jack’s Basket in providing hope and resources
The importance of celebrating individuals with Down syndrome and promoting inclusion
Strategies for healthcare providers to deliver unexpected news empathetically
 
Guest Bio:
Carissa Carroll, M.Ed., is the founder and CEO of Jack’s Basket, an organization born from her heart after her son Jack was diagnosed with Down syndrome. Driven by a deep commitment and clear mission, Carissa is passionate about celebrating the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. She has a deep love for learning, constantly seeking to grow and understand more. Building meaningful relationships is a priority for her. Carissa leads all growth efforts, inspiring communities to embrace and celebrate individuals facing an unexpected diagnosis with dignity and hope.
 
With an undergraduate degree from Bethel University and a Master of Education from the University of Minnesota, Carissa brings her background in education to equip medical providers with compassionate communication tools to deliver the Down syndrome diagnosis without bias. Her mission is to transform how families experience this moment, ensuring they feel supported, connected, and fully know that their child is worthy of celebration.
 
As a connector, innovator, and dedicated advocate, Carissa writes, speaks, and leads strategic initiatives to expand Jack’s Basket’s reach and impact. She collaborates closely with the organization’s board, volunteers, and donors, fostering a community that values individuals, connection, and celebration.
 
When she’s not advocating for families and shaping the future of Jack’s Basket, Carissa enjoys early morning runs with friends, quality time with her husband, and cherishing moments with her three children. She remains deeply inspired by individuals with Down syndrome and energized by the positive change that Jack’s story and the organization continue to create.
 
Here are more resources related to today’s topic:
Jack’s Basket Website
“Communicating Unexpected News” Curriculum
You Make Me Better Annual Gala
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Aryanah Estinvil.
 

In this episode, we explore bleeding disorders, their symptoms, diagnosis, and management, with expert Kaylee Dollerschell. Learn how these conditions affect individuals, especially women, and discover resources for support and treatment.
 
Key words:
bleeding disorders, hemophilia, von Willebrand, heavy menstrual bleeding, diagnosis, treatment, genetic counseling, patient resources
 
Key Topics:
What is a bleeding disorder and how it affects the body
Signs and symptoms of bleeding disorders
Diagnosis and testing for bleeding disorders
Treatment options including gene therapy
Impact of bleeding disorders on pregnancy and daily life
 
Guest bio:
Kaylee is a hematology genetic counselor at the University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado. She works with patients and families with hereditary bleeding & clotting conditions along with other hereditary blood & cancer disorders. She graduated from Colorado State University and worked at two start-up genetic testing companies before returning to school for her master's in genetic counseling. She graduated with her master's in genetic counseling from Augustana-Sanford Genetic Counseling Program in 2019. She's been with University of Colorado/Children's Hospital Colorado since then. She loves her work within the hereditary bleeding disorders community. During her free time, she enjoys the outdoors of Colorado, volleyball, camping, hunting, and spending time with friends & family.
 
Resources related to today’s topic:
Findageneticcounselor.org to search for a genetic counselor near you
National Bleeding Disorder Foundation
Foundation for Women and Girls with Blood Disorders
World Federation of Hemophilia
Dismissed Film- Bleeding Disorders
Bombardier Blood- documentary
 
Give your feedback and help shape All Access DNA! Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Aryanah Estinvil.

Dr. Jeremy Koenig shares how he came to performance genomics through his own athletic background, and the conversation explores how genetic information can inform training, injury risk, and coaching- without being treated as a prediction of destiny.
Key words: 
Precision Health, Athletic Genomics, Genetics in Sports, Genetic Counseling, Injury Risk, Training Optimization, Personalized Coaching, DNA Testing
 
Key Insights
The most impactful knowledge is context-driven
Genetic information is a navigational tool, not fate
Genes don’t guarantee Olympic success
Athletic genetic profiles can include info on metabolism & injury protection
 
Guest bio:
Jeremy Koenig is a PhD Biochemist, former professional athlete and the Founder of Iris Infinity. Jeremy built The DNA of Things podcast as a room where the brightest minds in genomics, longevity, and human performance can share their work directly with the people it matters to most. The guests are the story — he just makes sure they're heard.
 
As the founder of Iris Infinity — one of the world's leading DNA analysis platforms — he's spent two decades at the intersection of biology, technology, and athletics. That experience shapes the questions, but the answers belong to the experts.
 
Give your feedback and help shape All Access DNA! Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Aryanah Estinvil.

In this interview, we learn what epilepsy is, its causes, and the role of genetics in diagnosis and treatment. Beth Sheidley, a genetic counselor, explains the fundamentals of epilepsy, its genetic components, and the latest advancements in genetic testing.
 
Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7
 
Keywords:
epilepsy, genetic testing, genetic counseling, seizures, pediatric neurology, genetic causes, epilepsy treatment, genetic diagnosis, brain disorders, clinical trials
 
Key Topics:
Clinical presentation of epilepsy and various known causes
Differences between unprovoked and provoked seizures
Genetic factors in epilepsy
Role of genetic counseling in both diagnosis and management
 
Guest Bio:
Ms. Sheidley is a licensed genetic counselor with over 30 years of experience in clinical genetic counseling, research, and teaching. Her areas of expertise include autism, epilepsy, psychiatric illness and both prenatal and pediatric genetic counseling. She received her BS degree from Cornell University in 1990 and her MS in genetic counseling from Brandeis University in 1994, where she served as Professor of the Practice/Co-Director of Research and Professional Development from 2005 to June 2014.
 
Ms. Sheidley is the Director of Genetic Counseling for the Department of Neurology at Boston Children’s Hospital where she co-founded the first Epilepsy Genetics Program in the United States. Ms. Sheidley also co-founded and chairs EpiGC, an international network of genetic counselors who specialize in epilepsy genetics.
 
Ms. Sheidley was the lead author of a systematic review of the epilepsy genetics literature on behalf of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) and co-authored the resulting practice guideline adopted by NSGC and endorsed by the AES. She is a Co-Investigator for the Gene-STEPS study at Boston Children’s, which enrolls infants with recent seizure onset for rapid whole genome sequencing.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-rosen-sheidley-4994654/
 
Resources:
Findageneticcounselor.org to search for a genetic counselor near you
Rare Epilepsy Network (REN)
Epilepsy Foundation
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.

Dr. Emily Allen, a genetics researcher, explains the complexities of Fragile X syndrome, its genetic basis, and the importance of advocacy and ongoing research. Discover how genetics influence development, the challenges in diagnosis, and the promising future of personalized treatments.
 
Key words:
Fragile X, genetics, genetic counseling, developmental delays, autism, pre-mutation, research, advocacy, genetic testing, neurogenetics
 
Key Topics:
Genetics of Fragile X syndrome
Pre-mutation, carrier and full mutation distinctions
Diagnosis challenges and clinical presentations
Current research and future therapies
 
Guest bio:
Dr. Emily Allen’s research centers around studies of fragile X syndrome and Down syndrome. She values interdisciplinary engagement and actively collaborates with community organizations, government bodies, and academic institutions to enhance the breadth and impact of her research. She has combined quantitative and qualitative techniques, often beginning with broad data collection and analysis to identify patterns and trends, followed by in-depth qualitative exploration to better understand the underlying dynamics. She values the engagement of stakeholders throughout the research process, ensuring that those closest to the issues are heard and that their perspectives inform both the framing of research questions and the interpretation of results. By utilizing mixed methods, she can capture both statistical trends and individual experiences, providing a comprehensive perspective that supports better decision-making.
 
Resources related to today’s topic:
People article
National Fragile X Foundation
Emory page?
 
Give your feedback and help shape All Access DNA! Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.

Dr. Marleah Dean Kruzel explores the critical role of communication in healthcare, emphasizing how effective dialogue between clinicians and patients can improve health outcomes, reduce errors, and foster trust. She shares personal stories, research findings, and practical tips for enhancing health communication, especially around uncertainty and complex medical information.
 
Key Words: healthcare communication, patient-provider interaction, medical uncertainty, storytelling in science, health literacy, genetic counseling, medical errors, patient engagement, science communication, healthcare research
 
Topics Covered:
Importance of communication in healthcare
Impact of uncertainty on patient decisions
Role of storytelling in science and medicine
Barriers to effective patient-provider communication
Strategies for improving health literacy and trust
 
Guest Bio:
Marleah Dean Kruzel (PhD, Texas A&M University) is a professor, researcher, and speaker in healthcare communication. Her research focuses on communication of genetic risk information, has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, and funded by the National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. The daughter of a 28-year-old breast cancer survivor and BRCA2 previvor herself, she is committed to patient engagement and science communication. For example, she participated in the CDC’s “Bring Your Brave” campaign designed to educate and inspire young women regarding breast cancer risk, frequently gives community presentations and is featured on podcasts to disseminate her about research results. Dr. Dean Kruzel is also a Scientific Advisory Board member for the non-profits FORCE and My Faulty Gene.
 
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marleah-dean-kruzel-ph-d-02062128/
 
Here are more resources related to today’s topic:
Marleah's story on CDC's Bring Your Brave campaign: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbDIUIXPsqM
Marleah's TEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RVpgP_0XTs
Marleah’s website
Marleah’s YouTube channel
Society of Behavioral Medicine website
University of South Florida Genetic Counseling Program
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.

Maya Brown-Zimmerman shares her personal journey with Marfan syndrome, the importance of early diagnosis, and navigating life with a connective tissue disorder. She discusses medical management, genetic testing, community support, and her work in genetic counseling.
 
Key words: Marfan syndrome, genetic counseling, connective tissue disorder, medical management, genetic testing, patient advocacy, community support, rare diseases
 
Key Topics:
Diagnosis and clinical signs of Marfan syndrome
Genetic testing and its role in diagnosis
Managing health and lifestyle with Marfan syndrome
 
Guest bio:
Maya Brown-Zimmerman is a cardio genetic counselor living with Marfan syndrome, and the mother of four kids. She is passionate about making genetic information accessible. She's volunteered with the Marfan Foundation since she was a teenager and is currently an advisor to both their Professional Advisory Board and Board of Directors. 
 
Resources related to today’s topic:
Findageneticcounselor.org to search for a genetic counselor near you
Marfan Foundation
Facebook Marfan syndrome
The VEDs Movement
Loeys-Dietz Syndrome Foundation
 
Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.

We are talking about current events in genetics, including Olympic sex testing, genetic privacy in insurance, and legal challenges faced by genetic testing companies. It highlights how genetic information is used, misused, and the ongoing debates around privacy and ethics
Key words: Genetics, Olympic sex testing, Genetic privacy, Insurance discrimination, Genetic data lawsuits
 
Key Topics:
The Olympics will start using SRY testing which is a scientifically flawed method of testing for biological sex
Australia passes a country-wide law protecting against using genetic data in life insurance underwriting
Recent lawsuit allegations bring up questions on how private your genetic data really is
 
Related Episodes:
What are sex trait variations and how do we support intersex individuals? With Kaitlyn Brown
Does genetics influence sex and gender? With Kim Zayhowski 
When is rare disease not so rare? With Susanna Smith
The DNA Dialogues Podcast episode #27: Protecting genetic information: Life insurance and GINA
Should I delete my 23andMe data? With Anya Prince
What should I know about buying a DNA test? With Andrew McCarty
 
Sources:
Andrew Sinclair: World's Athletics' mandatory genetic test for women athletes is misguided. I should know- I discovered the relevant gene in 1990
Essay: Gender verification of female athletes
A sex test for Olympic contenders harms all women by Chris Mosier and Erika Lorshbough
Circulating Testosterone as the Hormonal Basis of Sex Differences in Athletic Performance
Genetic Discrimination is Coming for Us All by Kristen V. Brown
How your health (and genetic results) affects your life, travel and health insurance
Future implications of polygenic risk scores for life insurance underwriting
Time to End the Use of Genetic Test Results in Life Insurance Underwriting
U of Iowa Genetic Privacy in the US: Insurance and Law Enforcement Use
Healthcare AI Firm Sued Over Alleged Unlawful Disclosures of Genetic Data
Tempus AI Sued for Breach of Genetic Information Privacy Act
Genetic data are not always personal- disaggregating the identifiability and sensitivity of genetic data
Policy brief: can genomic data be anonymised? Global Alliance for Genomics and Health
 
Give your feedback and help shape All Access DNA! Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.

In this insightful interview, genetic counselor Andy McCarty discusses the rise of private practice in genetics, the nuances of direct-to-consumer genetic testing, and how to interpret results responsibly. Learn about access, misconceptions, and the importance of professional guidance in genetic testing. 
 
Key Takeaways:
Not all genetic testing is the same
Verify results with clinical-grade testing
Consult a genetic counselor for interpretation of results
Misleading results can impact your health decisions
 
Guest Bio:
Andrew McCarty is a genetic counselor focused on bringing accessible, evidence-based genetic services to patients and healthcare teams. As founder of Clover Genetics, he works across specialties to interpret genetic test results, design patient-centered counseling pathways, and advise clinicians on appropriate test selection and follow-up. Andrew has a pragmatic approach: he prioritizes clear communication, action-oriented recommendations, and realistic expectations for what genetic information can  and cannot tell us. 
 
Resources:
Findageneticcounselor.org to search for a genetic counselor near you
Clover Genetics, Andrew McCarty’s practice
 
Keywords: genetic counseling, direct-to-consumer testing, private practice, genetic results interpretation, healthcare access, genetic variants, clinical vs consumer testing
 
Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com
 
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.
 
The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.