Stories from the Heart Podcast

A podcast series that delves deeply into the personal experiences of the people navigating life with heart conditions, and of those researching solutions to heart disease’s biggest challenges

This series aims to harness the story-telling power of people’s experiences with heart disease, Australia’s leading cause of death, to influence positive action on heart health across the country and raise awareness that could help save lives.

Join us as we embark on a journey of resilience, courage, and inspiration. Each episode offers a unique perspective on living with heart conditions and shares practical advice for fostering emotional health. Stories from the Heart aims to create a supportive community where individuals facing similar challenges can find solace, encouragement, and a wealth of shared wisdom.

Stay tuned for the upcoming episodes as we amplify the voices of those with lived experience, fostering a sense of connection and understanding in the broader community.

Episode 1 - The Race To Keep Young Hearts Beating

Sudden cardiac arrest – where the heart suddenly stops beating – is the leading cause of death among Australians aged 50 and under.

Worryingly, it can strike even seemingly healthy people, like 31-year-old Bryan Maris, an A-Grade cyclist who passed away in his sleep.

Bryan's wife, Jessica Maris, is now working to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest and the need for more research in this space to better understand and prevent unnecessary death in younger Australians.

Jess’ children are now at risk of the same genetic condition that is believed to have led to Bryan's sudden cardiac arrest, adding to the urgency of her advocacy in this space.

Thanks to support from donors, the Heart Foundation is funding work by Dr Elizabeth Paratz to compile the world's largest registry of sudden cardiac deaths which will give scientists their closest look yet at possible causes in young people.

Episode 2 - The Wiggles’ Greg Page on AEDs and the Chain of Survival

In this episode of Stories from the Heart, we shine a spotlight on the critical role of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the chain of survival.

Join us as we delve into the heart-wrenching narrative of Greg Page, the original yellow Wiggle, whose life was saved by the swift actions of bystanders armed with an AED.

Through Greg's harrowing account of experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest during a concert and the crucial moments that followed, we gain a profound understanding of the life-saving impact of AEDs in emergencies.

Tune in as we explore Greg's journey of recovery and his subsequent mission to advocate for widespread AED access through his organisation, Heart Of The Nation.

Learn about the power of community-driven initiatives and the transformative potential of AEDs in increasing survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest.

Episode 3 - Surviving sudden cardiac arrest: Laurie and Mark's journey

What happens when you've committed your life to improving the cardiovascular health of others, but you're one day confronted with the sudden cardiac arrest of a loved one?

In this episode of "Stories from the Heart," we delve into the harrowing experience of Laurie and Prof Mark Haykowsky as they recount the events surrounding Laurie's sudden cardiac arrest. 

Mark's perspective, both as a cardiologist and a husband, provides valuable insights into the medical aspects of sudden cardiac arrest, emphasising the importance of knowing CPR and AED locations. 

Laurie's journey from the brink of death to recovery is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering support of loved ones.

Through their story, Mark and Laurie emphasis the significance of heart health awareness and the need for proactive measures to prevent cardiovascular disease. 

Episode 4 - Beyond the Finish Line: Exploring Exercise Cardiology with Dr Aaron Baggish

In this episode, we speak with former Medical Director for the Boston Marathon, Dr Aaron Baggish, who takes us back to the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013, recounting his harrowing experience as one of the first responders on the scene.

From the chaos of the explosions to the impromptu trauma care provided amidst the devastation, Dr Baggish shares his insights into resilience, trauma, and the importance of preparedness in the face of unforeseen crises.

Drawing from his expertise as a sports cardiologist, Dr Baggish discusses the fascinating intersection of exercise and heart health. We also explore the impact of rigorous physical activity on elite athletes' hearts, the nuances of managing cardiac health in active individuals, and the crucial public health message underlying it all: some exercise is always better than none.

Discover the pressing challenges and promising advancements in exercise cardiology, from understanding sudden cardiac arrest in athletes to bridging the gap between research and practice. Dr Baggish’s insights offer a compelling narrative of courage, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of heart health excellence.

Episode 5 - Transforming Heart Health in Remote Communities

In this episode, we travel to Barunga - a remote town in the Northern Territory, and the birthplace of a groundbreaking initiative poised to transform heart health in remote Aboriginal communities: the Remote Laundries project.

We delve into the stark realities of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and the ingenious solutions being crafted to confront its profound impact. Through interviews with survivors like Kenya McAdam and influential figures such as Heart Foundation CEO David Lloyd, we look at the connection between skin infections and the onset of RHD, and the unique challenges faced in tackling this issue.

Episode 6 - Heart Histories: A Genetic Journey

In this episode of Stories from the Heart, we delve into the critical role of genetic counselling in understanding and addressing inherited heart diseases. 

We speak to Associate Professor Jodie Ingles, a leading cardiac genetic counsellor and head of the Clinical Genomics Laboratory at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, who shares her insights and expertise about the significance of genetic counselling in diagnosing and managing inherited heart diseases.

From the importance of DNA samples to the challenges in accessing crucial information, join us as we learn how genetic testing and counselling offer hope and support to families navigating the uncertainties of heart disease.

Episode 7 - A Life Transformed by a Rare Heart Disease: Geoff Lester’s Story

What would you do if your life changed in an instant?

For Dr Geoff Lester, a promising economics student and basketball referee, it all began with dizziness and a tingling sensation during a game. At just 24, he was on the brink of death from a rare genetic heart disease he didn’t even know he had.

After four open-heart surgeries and two strokes, Geoff’s life took a completely new direction. Now training to become a vascular physician, he shares how this life-threatening ordeal led him to discover his true purpose.

Listen as we delve into Geoff's incredible story of survival, resilience, and the power of finding meaning in life’s most challenging moments.

Episode 8 - Blood Pressure's Deadly Role in Heart Disease

Could high blood pressure be the hidden force behind life-threatening heart conditions?

In this powerful episode of Stories from the Heart, we hear from Nathan Krepp, a self-described workaholic from Western Australia. With high blood pressure and a poor diet, Nathan had already lost 5% of his heart function due to minor heart attacks. But in 2020, an even more dramatic event unfolded, which saw him staring death in the face.

We also speak to Dr Niamh Chapman, a Senior Research Fellow from the University of Sydney, about her ground-breaking research that aims to measure blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease in pathology waiting rooms.

Episode 9 - Mental health and the impact of heart disease

What happens to your mind when your heart lets you down?

In this episode, we delve into the critical but often overlooked link between mental health and heart disease. With around 3 million Australians living with depression or anxiety, the connection between mental well-being and heart health has never been more important.

We hear from Nadene Hall, who experienced a spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) heart attack in 2023, and how she’s adjusting to her new reality.

Professor Adrienne O'Neill from Deakin University, an expert in psycho-cardiology, shares her insights from nearly two decades of research.

We also hear from Heart Foundation Senior Manager Natalie Raffoul, who is on a mission to ensure no one faces recovery alone, as she discusses the vital support needed for those navigating the mental challenges of a heart event.

Episode 10 - Unpacking Ultra-Processed Foods

How much do you really know about the foods you eat? In this episode of Stories from the Heart, we explore how ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are silently shaping our health—and not always for the better.

Dietary experts Jemma O'Hanlon and Dr. Priscila Machado break down the rapid rise of UPFs in modern diets and their connection to growing rates of chronic diseases like heart disease. They reveal the hidden additives and industrial ingredients that make these foods so appealing yet harmful to our hearts.

We also hear from quadruple bypass survivor Chris Harrison, who shares his powerful story of overcoming heart disease and the lifestyle changes that made all the difference.

From pushing for clearer food labelling to offering healthier alternatives, Jemma, Priscila, and Chris provide practical tips to help you make better food choices for your heart in today's fast-paced world.

Episode 11 - The Heart-Pumping Power of Jump Rope

In this podcast, we’re jumping into the Skip Your Way for 30 Days challenge with Jump Rope World Champion, Luke Boon.

Luke shares his expert insights on how skipping is not only a fun and accessible way to get fit, but also a powerful exercise for boosting heart health.

We’re also joined by Dr Brooklyn Fraser, a leading researcher in childhood fitness, who tells us how skipping and other forms of physical activity can set children up for lifelong heart health.

If you’re ready to make a difference, join the Skip Your Way for 30 Days challenge this November! Have fun, get fit, and help raise vital funds for heart research. Sign up now at skipyourway.org.au and skip your way to healthier hearts!

Episode 12 - The Benefits of Walking and Wearables for Heart Health

Can a simple stroll really boost your heart health?

In this episode of Stories from the Heart, we dive into the surprising benefits of walking.

Dr Matthew Ahmadi, a research fellow at the Charles Perkins Centre, breaks down how wearable devices can turn everyday steps into heart-healthy wins.

Plus, we chat with Kym Lang and Elizabeth Calleja from the Heart Foundation’s healthy living programs about how small steps can make big changes.

Episode 13 - Heart Attack on Horseback: Vicki Roycroft’s Survival Story

Vicki Roycroft, three time Olympian and Australian equestrian royalty, takes us on a journey from a life-threatening heart emergency to getting back on her beloved horse.

After an aortic rupture at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in 2023, Vicki reflects on how CPR and the presence of skilled medics saved her life.

Hear her candid account of recovery, her decision to step back from competition, and the genetic heart condition that has shaped her family’s health journey.

Episode 14 - Rethinking Mammograms: Could They Soon Save Hearts Too?

Could a routine mammogram save your life in more ways than one?

In this episode, Dr Lauren Houston, Research Fellow in the Cardiovascular Program at The George Institute for Global Health, shares her groundbreaking work on combining heart disease screening with mammograms.

Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionising diagnostics, why women’s unique health needs demand attention, and the global potential of this innovative research.

Dr Houston also opens up about the challenges of breaking new ground in medicine and the critical importance of raising awareness about women’s heart health.