Ep. 2 On this episode of WE GOT THIS, host Elissa Kalver sits down with Dena Goldberg, MS, CGC — widely known as Dena DNA — to break down cancer genetics, genetic risk, and why access to genetic testing should be clearer, more inclusive, and easier to understand.

Dena is a board-certified genetic counselor, science communicator, and healthcare thought leader dedicated to making complex genetics approachable and empowering. Formerly the Endowed Counselor of Hereditary Gastrointestinal Cancer Prevention at UCSF, she now runs a media brand focused on normalizing genetic education and proactive health decision-making.

In this conversation, Elissa and Dena explore:

• What cancer genetics actually means — and what it doesn’t
• How genetic variants influence cancer risk without determining outcomes
• Who genetic testing is for (and why outdated criteria limit access)
• The role of preventive and proactive genetic testing
• Why education — not fear — should guide health decisions
• How storytelling and media help people understand their DNA without overwhelm

Dena also shares how her personal experiences as a patient, sibling, IVF patient, and parent shape her mission to humanize genetic counseling and advocate for better access to testing and care.

This episode is designed for cancer thrivers, caregivers, and anyone curious about genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk, and proactive health — delivered with clarity, compassion, and expert-backed insight.

🎧 The WE GOT THIS podcast is a free resource created to make expert conversations accessible — without the copay.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.