The HDSA Podcast

Huntington's Disease Society of America

The HDSA Podcast gives listeners an opportunity to meet members of the Huntington's disease community and get a behind-the-scenes look at the Huntington's Disease Society of America. A new episode will be released every month and please visit www.HDSA.org to learn more about HD and how to get involved.

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16 episodes
Avg 34 min
English

Episodes 16

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S4 · E7
August 18 · 43 min
S4:E7 Let's Talk about IVF and PGDIVF
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the HDSA Podcast, hosts Tam, MaryAnn, and Allison are joined by special guest Emily Patterson for an open and informative conversation about in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic testing/Diagnosis (PGD) for families impacted by Huntington’s disease. Emily shares her perspective and experience while the group explores what the IVF and PGD process can look like, why individuals and couples may consider these options, and some of the emotional, financial, and practical realities that can come with family planning in the HD community. As always, the conversation is candid, compassionate, and centered on helping families better understand the choices that may be available to them. Whether you are considering IVF and PGD, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn more about reproductive options for families affected by Huntington’s disease, this episode offers an approachable starting point for the conversation. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Individuals considering IVF, PGD, or other reproductive options should speak with qualified medical and genetic counseling professionals. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S4 · E6
August 14 · 17 min
S4:E6 Let's Talk About the Grey Area : Part 2
Send us Fan Mail In Part 2 of Grey Area, the HDSA Podcast team continues the conversation with researchers Chris Kay, PhD, and Jessica Dawson, PhD, diving even deeper into the complexities of Huntington’s disease genetics. The conversation explores why HD may be diagnosed more often today, what researchers are learning about loss-of-interruption variants, and why a CAG repeat number may not always tell the full story. Chris and Jessica also explain the limitations of current diagnostic testing, the role of genetic counselors and HD specialists, and ongoing research aimed at better understanding sequence variants in people with reduced penetrance CAG repeats. The group also discusses research-based testing underway through the HD Biobank at the University of British Columbia and why continued research could help improve how these complex genetic results are understood in the future. Join Tam, Allison, Marianne, Chris, and Jessica as they continue navigating the fascinating—and sometimes unexpected—grey areas of Huntington’s disease genetics. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S4 · E5
August 11 · 31 min
S4:E5 Let's Talk About the Grey Area: Part 1
Send us Fan Mail What happens when a Huntington’s disease genetic test result doesn’t look the way you expect? In Part 1 of Grey Area, the HDSA Podcast team is joined by researchers Chris Kay, PhD, and Jessica Dawson, PhD, to explore the complexities of HD genetics. Using a Reddit post as the starting point, the group breaks down CAG repeat lengths, intermediate alleles, reduced penetrance, inheritance, and why genetic test results aren’t always as straightforward as they may seem. Join Tam, Allison, Marianne, Chris, and Jessica for a fascinating and approachable conversation about the “grey areas” of Huntington’s disease genetics—and the questions that can send even HD researchers down a rabbit hole. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S4 · E4
July 10 · 47 min
S4:E4 - Tell Allison What She Missed at the HDSA Annual Convention
Send us Fan Mail Allison couldn’t make it to Convention, so Tam and Maryann are filling her in on everything she missed! From powerful sessions and community moments to key updates, inspiring stories, and behind-the-scenes highlights, this episode recaps the energy, connection, and hope that made this year’s HDSA Annual Convention so meaningful. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S4 · E3
May 29 · 35 min
S4:E3 - Let's Talk About HD Awareness Month Part 2
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk About HD, hosts Tam Maiuri and MaryAnn Emerick are joined by Paul, Hannah, Rachel, Emily, Jenna, and Mariana for a meaningful conversation about Huntington’s disease, community, connection, and the experiences that shape the HD journey. Together, they share personal perspectives, reflect on the importance of support, and highlight the power of open conversation in helping families feel seen, heard, and less alone. This episode reminds us that every HD story matters—and that by talking about HD, we continue to build awareness, understanding, and hope. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S4 · E2
May 18 · 27 min
S4:E2 - Let's Talk About HD Awareness Month with Tam, Allison & MaryAnn
Send us Fan Mail Let’s Talk About HD Awareness Month with Tam, Allison & MaryAnn In this episode of Let’s Talk About HD, we recognize Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month with a meaningful conversation featuring Tam, Allison, and MaryAnn. Together, they reflect on the importance of raising awareness, and discuss how storytelling, advocacy, and community support help shine a light on the experiences of HD families. Throughout the conversation, Tam, Allison, and MaryAnn highlight why awareness matters, not only in May, but all year long, as HDSA continues working to provide help for today and hope for tomorrow for everyone impacted by Huntington’s disease. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S4 · E1
April 23 · 27 min
S4:E1 - Let's Talk About HD with Tam, Allison & MaryAnn
Send us Fan Mail Meet the new hosts of the HDSA Podcast: Tamara Maiuri, PhD, Associate Director of Research and Patient Engagement; Allison Bartlett, Esq., Senior Manager of Disability Programs; and MaryAnn Emerick, LMSW, Senior Manager of Youth & Community Services. Together, they bring expertise, insight, and a deep commitment to the Huntington’s disease community. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S3 · E1
Feb 12, 2025 · 22 min
S3:E1- Let's Talk About Volunteering with HDSA
Send us Fan Mail In this insightful episode, Neekia Davis, Teresa Srajer, Beth Hoffman, and Dom Thomas dive into the importance of volunteering and how you can get involved in supporting the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA). They share personal experiences, tips for making an impact, and why volunteers are the heart of the organization. Whether you're looking for ways to give back or just curious about HDSA’s mission, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S2 · E5
Dec 2, 2024 · 24 min
S2:E5 Let's Talk about the HD ELPFDD Meeting
Send us Fan Mail In this insightful episode, Neekia Davis and Phyllis Foxworth dive deep into the highlights and critical discussions from the ELPFDD Meeting on November 13th. They break down the key takeaways, and provide an inside look at the collaborative efforts shaping the next steps. Join us as they outline action plans, share community feedback, and discuss strategies for addressing the pressing challenges and opportunities identified during the meeting. Whether you attended the ELPFDD or are catching up on what you missed, this episode is packed with valuable insights to keep you informed and engaged in the journey ahead. Tune in to stay in the know and discover how you can contribute to the path forward! Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S2 · E4
Oct 18, 2024 · 22 min
S2:E4 - Let's Talk About POWERHD
Send us Fan Mail In today's episode, we're thrilled to take a deep dive into POWERHD with special guests Erika Boulavsky, MSW, LCSW, Community Outreach Specialist at HDReach, and MaryAnn Emerick, LMSW, Manager of Youth & Community Services at HDSA. Tune in for an insightful conversation! Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S2 · E3
Jun 11, 2024 · 37 min
S2E3: Phyllis Foxworth & Dr. Victor Sung
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, HDSA's President & CEO Louise Vetter is joined by Phyllis Foxworth and Dr. Victor Sung to chat about the changing landscape of research. Phyllis is the Senior Manager, Advocacy at HDSA Dr. Sung is the Director of the HDSA Center of Excellence at The University of Birmingham, Alabama, and the former chair of the HDSA Board of Directors. To learn more about Huntington's disease, please visit HDSA.org. Don't forget to follow us on social media! Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S2 · E2
May 8, 2024 · 39 min
S2E2: Leora Fox, PhD & Kelly Andrew Part 2
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, HDSA's President & CEO Louise Vetter is joined by Leora Fox, PhD and Kelly Andrew to chat about Somatic Instability and how to get involved in research opportunities. Leora is the Assistant Director of Research and Patient Engagement at HDSA. Kelly is the Coordinator of Research and Mission Programs at HDSA. To learn more about Huntington's disease, please visit HDSA.org. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S2 · E1
Apr 18, 2024 · 42 min
S2E1: Leora Fox, PhD & Kelly Andrew
Send us Fan Mail In this episode HDSA's President & CEO Louise Vetter is joined by Leora Fox, PhD and Kelly Andrew. Leora is the Assistant Director of Research and Patient Engagement at HDSA. Kelly is the Coordinator of Research and Mission Programs at HDSA. To learn more about Huntington's disease, please visit HDSA.org. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S1 · E3
Mar 30, 2023 · 49 min
Episode #3: Maryann Emerick, Dr. Jim Gusella and Dr. Marcy MacDonald
Send us Fan Mail In this episode HDSA's President & CEO Louise Vetter is joined by MaryAnn Emerick; Dr. Jim Gusella and Dr. Marcy MacDonald. Maryann is HDSA's Manager, Youth & Community Services and an HD family member. Dr. Gusella is a Professor of Neurogenetics at the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School. Dr. MacDonald is a Professor of Neurology at Mass General Hospital. To learn more about Huntington's disease, please visit HDSA.org. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S1 · E2
Feb 28, 2023 · 53 min
Episode #2: Chris Cosentino & Robi Blumenstein
Send us Fan Mail In Episode #2, Louise Vetter is joined by Chris Cosentino & Robi Blumenstein. Chris Cosentino is HDSA's Director of Marketing & Communications and has been with the Society since 2014. Robi Blumenstein is President of CHDI and in 2002 organized CHDI Management to provide management services to non-profit organizations engaged in Huntington’s disease research. Don't forget to follow us on social media!
S1 · E1
Jan 26, 2023 · 38 min
Episode #1: Arik Johnson & Teresa Srajer
Send us Fan Mail In this episode HDSA's President & CEO Louise Vetter is joined by Arik Johnson, PsyD and Teresa Srajer. They discuss the launch of the new HDSA Podcast, the 38th Annual HDSA Convention and a behind-the-scenes look at the Huntington's Disease Society of America. Dr. Johnson is HDSA's Chief Mission Officer and former Chair of HDSA's Board of Trustees. Teresa is an HD family member, long-time volunteer and HDSA's newly appointed Chair of HDSA's Board of Trustees. To learn more about Huntington's disease, please visit HDSA.org. Don't forget to follow us on social media!

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