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.