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• Who genetic testing is for (and why outdated criteria limit access)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.

In the very first episode of WE GOT THIS (the Podcast), host Elissa Kalver sits down with Dr. Krystle Zuniga, PhD, RD, CSO, LD — a board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition with over 14 years of experience in cancer research, education, and clinical care.

Dr. Z breaks down why nutrition matters during and after cancer, how liver health plays a critical role in treatment and recovery, and what cancer thrivers and caregivers need to watch out for when choosing supplements — especially in an industry full of misinformation.

Together, Elissa and Dr. Z cover:

• Why nutrition is foundational in cancer care and survivorship
• How liver health impacts detoxification, treatment tolerance, and overall wellness
• Common red flags when evaluating supplements marketed to cancer patients
• Why “natural” doesn’t always mean “safe”
• How to approach nutrition decisions with confidence, not fear

This episode is designed to educate, empower, and support — without overwhelm, judgment, or a copay.

Whether you’re navigating treatment, living in survivorship, caring for someone you love, or simply looking for credible cancer wellness information, this conversation will help you make more informed decisions rooted in science, empathy, and clarity.

🎧 WE GOT THIS is a free resource created to make expert insight accessible to cancer thrivers, caregivers, and supporters because everyone deserves trustworthy information.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Z's work at cancernutritionhq.com

📲 Follow her on social: @cancernutritionhq

WE GOT THIS exists to make navigating cancer a little less overwhelming — and a lot more supported.

In addition to this podcast, we offer free resources created specifically for the cancer community, including:

• 🎁 A Free Gift Registry — so friends and family can give what’s actually helpful
• 🛍️ A Recommendations Shop — vetted products curated with cancer patients and caregivers in mind
• 📚 A Free Resources Directory — trusted tools, support, and education all in one place

Everything is designed to reduce guesswork, save energy, and support cancer thrivers and caregivers with care and intention.

Explore all free offerings at wegotthis.org

👉 If this episode helped you, follow the podcast and share it with someone who could use support today.

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