Hey Heart Buddies. It's been a long while since I last aired an episode. Sorry for that. In this episode, I get into the reason for my absence with the help of my dear dear friend, Melissa Snider. We cover her heart journey as well which includes two valvular issues. We talk medical gaslighting (which I have talked extensively about on this podcast in the past), more about advocating for self, and my amazing experience at Cleveland Clinic so far. Since the recording of this episode, I have experienced more decline, and Cleveland is working hard on my behalf to get me better. The future is unknown. I have the attention of the very best doctors in the world now but the plan is still in flux. "You get to hire and fire your team. And if you’re new to this podcast or you’re newly diagnosed, I just want to make sure that you are hearing this and will apply it to your own healthcare journey... You should still be honored by your healthcare provider, even if you just have a hangnail." – Boots KnightonBe sure to follow/subscribe to this podcast to get more updates from me and so you won't miss the next season (when I feel up for recording). I'm not done yet! xoJoin the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
"I grabbed the door handle, and it felt like somebody just cut up my chest with a dull butter knife. And 15 seconds later I was lying face down on the kitchen floor dead from cardiac tamponade at that point in time."Hey Heart Buddies. Whew. Today's episode with Jon Toivonen whose heart story literally stopped—and restarted—multiple times is one to help you take stock of your own life. Jon recounts his first shocking symptoms, the surreal “butter knife” sensation of an aortic dissection, and how fate, luck, and love shaped his survival. While Jon’s physical heart has been patched together, the emotional journey is far from straightforward. Jon shares what comes after the surgeries: the mental battles, the power of community, and why an electric recliner might just be life changing. He also opens up about navigating the aftermath—ICU hallucinations, family impact, and the ever-present possibility of another health crisis.You can find Jon here. Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! I welcome Dr. Marschall Runge, a leading expert in cardiovascular disease and AI in healthcare, this week to help us explore the transformative role of AI in heart health and discuss its potential to improve diagnostics and predict health outcomes. Runge shares insights into AI's ability to analyze complex medical data, enhancing preventive care and treatment precision. I ask him to address concerns about maintaining human connection in healthcare amidst AI advancements. The conversation highlights the importance of patients being proactive as the "CEO" of their health. Runge expresses optimism about AI's role in revolutionizing healthcare practices and outcomes.This is a fascinating episode and a break from our usual story telling. I hope this episode empowers you to think outside the box of your current health care. Let me know if you liked it!Amazon.com: Coded to Kill: A Techno-Medical Thriller: 9781637589274: Runge M.D., Marschall: Books Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D. | LinkedInJoin the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
A simple coronary artery calcium score test saved Bill's life.Meet Bill Pollard, a heart patient from Chesapeake, Virginia. Bill shares his unique journey with a bicuspid valve and stents. At 50, Bill made lifestyle changes after discovering high calcium levels in his arteries. Despite undergoing open heart surgery for valve replacement, Bill resumed an active life, running and participating in fitness groups. His recovery story offers inspiration, emphasizing the importance of heart health awareness, family support, and community connection. Bill’s experience highlights the significance of preventative health scans and maintaining a balanced lifestyle for optimal heart health.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! A heart murmur, congenital aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva, ruptured sinus of Valsalva into right ventricle, bicuspid aortic valve, persistent left superior vena cava and pacemaker... all in one extraordinary heart...This week, I talk with my friend, Dawn Anderson, about her extraordinary heart health journey. Living in Adrian, Minnesota, Dawn shares her experience of discovering and surviving a rare aortic aneurysm and bicuspid aortic valve at age 41. Despite facing multiple challenges, including depression and the stress of losing her job, Dawn emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and seeking support. Her story highlights the necessity of listening to your body and staying informed about heart health. Dawn and I met through WomenHeart which is a non-profit providing education and support to female heart disease patients. Don't forget to subscribe!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! I hope you have enjoyed this month's pelvic health series. In this final installment with Dr. Kelly Sadauckas, we unravel the mysteries of pelvic health and its crucial connection to overall wellness by using a unique interactive experience designed to teach you how to relax your pelvic floor. All you'll need is a simple towel and a quiet space. Ever wondered about the secrets of diaphragmatic breathing or how to harness the power of neuroplasticity for pelvic health? This is the episode for you! This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss when they are posted!To connect with Dr. Kelly and access her courses, etc, go here: Pelvic Floored: The best online pelvic floor exercises & wellness Coupon code is OHS2025. This is an affiliate link which costs you nothing but does support this podcast. Thank you! I hope you enjoy Dr. Kelly's offerings!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey to all of my heart friends. This episode may be a tad cringy at times. Sorry, not sorry. Curious about what happens after open-heart surgery that no one else seems to talk about? Dr. Kelly Sadauckas takes us on a journey into a post-operative topic that’s often overlooked: pooping. This episode sheds light on the intricate processes involved in digestion and bowel movement and reveals surprising ways to prepare for and recover from surgery more smoothly. We do our best to make the complex world of gut health accessible and—dare we say it—fun! This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss when they are posted!To connect with Dr. Kelly and access her courses, etc, go here: Pelvic Floored: The best online pelvic floor exercises & wellness Coupon code is OHS2025. This is an affiliate link which costs you nothing but does support this podcast. Thank you! I hope you enjoy Dr. Kelly's offerings!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Happy Valentine's Day to all my heart buddies. Today is an extra episode just for you! Expert Dr. Kelly Sadauckas and I continue our series this month as we explore post-surgery intimacy and pelvic health for heart surgery patients. In this episode, Dr. Kelly educates us on the significance of understanding concepts like metabolic equivalent tasks (METs) and cardiac rehab to ensure safe resumption of sexual activities. She explains that a MET of five indicates moderate activity, similar to intimacy post-heart surgery. She touches on pelvic floor health, relaxation techniques, and the mental and physical impacts of surgery scars. It's important to consult health professionals in case of pain or issues, promoting informed, healthy recovery, and sexual well-being post-heart surgery! This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss when they are posted!To connect with Dr. Kelly and access her courses, etc, go here: Pelvic Floored: The best online pelvic floor exercises & wellness Coupon code is OHS2025. This is an affiliate link which costs you nothing but does support this podcast. Thank you! I hope you enjoy Dr. Kelly's offerings!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! Our five-part series with pelvic health expert Dr. Kelly Sadauckas continues this week as we explore the surprising ties between erectile dysfunction and cardiac health. Discover why sexual health matters more than you might think and how it serves as an important marker for your overall wellbeing. This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss when they are posted!To connect with Dr. Kelly and access her courses, etc, go here: Pelvic Floored: The best online pelvic floor exercises & wellness Coupon code is OHS2025. This is an affiliate link which costs you nothing but does support this podcast. Thank you! I hope you enjoy Dr. Kelly's offerings!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Dr. Kelly Sadauckas brings her pelvic floor wisdom to the world as we explore the crucial link between pelvic health and your overall well-being in this first episode of our February series, Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis. Dr. Kelly, with her 25 years of experience, busts the myths surrounding pelvic health issues—whether it's pee, poop, or the delicate topic of intimacy. You’ll discover why your recovery journey must go beyond just focusing on your heart, touching on why "normal" pelvic functions might be more elusive than you think, and why being pain-free isn’t just wishful thinking. Prepare to learn what your pee and poop habits say about you—in ways you never expected. With a success rate of 80% in pelvic health recovery, Dr. Kelly unveils practical tips on achieving a healthier, happier you post-surgery. This is more than just a podcast episode; it's a guide to breaking taboos and taking control of your body’s quirkiest functions. Listen in and enlighten yourself on the secret to whole-body healing.This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss when they are posted!To connect with Dr. Kelly and access her courses, etc, go here: Pelvic Floored: The best online pelvic floor exercises & wellness Coupon code is OHS2025. This is an affiliate link which costs you nothing but does support this podcast. Thank you! I hope you enjoy Dr. Kelly's offerings!Time Stamps00:00 "Heart Surgery & Pelvic Health"04:22 Pelvic Health Awareness Journey06:56 Pelvic Health Assessment Guide12:34 Daily Water Intake Guidelines14:55 Pregnancy and Poop Health Tips18:39 Periods Should Be Pain-Free21:09 Bladder and Pelvic Floor Explained24:45 Rethinking Pelvic Health: Beyond Kegels28:21 Pelvic Floor Overactivity Issues33:01 Pelvic Floor and Bowel Mechanics33:54 Stress-Induced Constipation Explained40:15 Pelvic Floor Recovery Tips42:00 Pelvic PTs Expanding Healthcare Presence45:50 Sigmoid Colon Massage Technique48:57 Poop Management in Healthcare51:52 Course Discounts & Health InsightsJoin the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone
Hey Heart Buddies. This episode is so important. I welcome Julia Hotz, whose book, "The Connection Cure," is revolutionizing the way we approach healthcare. This episode takes a deep dive into how social prescribing—a practice that includes non-medical treatments such as art, movement, nature, and community involvement—can significantly enhance heart health and overall well-being. Julia shares compelling data and heartwarming stories about individuals who've transformed their lives through these holistic measures. Hear how simple, yet powerful, prescriptions for happiness and connection can make all the difference in your journey towards thriving post-heart surgery. You won't want to miss this enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between modern medicine and soulful living.About Julia and how to get your own copy of The Connection Cure: THE CONNECTION CURE Book — Julia HotzJoin the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! I welcome Kina Lucombe, who shares her story of cardiomyopathy and complete heart block. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle as a pescatarian, Kina unexpectedly collapsed during yoga in February 2019. Diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and complete heart block, she required an emergency pacemaker surgery. Kina discusses the emotional aftermath and how it led her to found Hearts of Valor, a support organization for heart patients. She emphasizes the importance of sharing health struggles with loved ones and staying hopeful despite a heart diagnosis. Kina's inspiring story underscores the unexpected challenges of heart health and the power of community support.To learn more about Kina and her work, go to: About Our Organization – Hearts of Valor Inc.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! Boots Knighton speaks with Lucinda McDermott about navigating heart health after discovering a severely leaking tricuspid valve. Lucinda shares her journey, from initial chest pain and fainting to being diagnosed with a heart murmur by her OB GYN. After mitral valve replacement in 2017, Lucinda faced additional challenges, including fragmented healthcare and dismissive cardiologists. Both Lucinda and Boots stress the importance of patient advocacy, support networks like WomenHeart, and having a “heart doula” during medical appointments. The episode highlights key issues like secure insurance, patient empowerment, and the significance of clear communication with healthcare providers.Want to contact Lucinda? Email her: lucimc2319@gmail.comJoin the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well. Mentioned in this episode:Heart Valve Voice - USBe sure to check out HHV - US!HVV-US
Hey Hey Heart Buddies and Happy New Year! Season 5 of Open Heart Surgery with Boots is here. Wow. Thank you for being along for the ride that is this life and this podcast.I had the honor of interviewing Jeremy Rothenberg who shares his incredible journey, which began with an Apple Watch alert and ended in a life-changing open-heart surgery. Jeremy reveals what it’s like to go from feeling healthy and fit to confronting a shocking diagnosis (cirrhosis of the liver) and managing the whirlwind of emotions that follow. We explore his advice on regulating the nervous system, his candid recount of his surgery, and his inspiring post-op accomplishments. Whether you're curious about heart health, or you're in need of motivation to tackle life’s challenges, this episode offers a raw and uplifting narrative that will leave you pondering the preciousness of each heartbeat. I wish I lived closer to Jeremy. He is such a light. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.Read about and get in touch with Jeremy here.Boots Knighton has been an educator since the late 1990s in all facets of education including high school science, middle school mathematics, elementary reading, college level ecology, ski instruction, backpacking, and experiential education. Her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her open-heart surgery on January 15, 2021 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, The Heart Chamber: patient stories of open-heart surgery and recovery, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open.
Hey Heart Buddies! For the last episode of 2024, I bring you one more bonus episode that was the most downloaded episode of 2024. Thank you to my childhood friend, Todd Sykes, for your willingness to tell your story. I love you.Todd Sykes is a survivor and thriver of endocarditis, a stroke, and a brain aneurysm. At just 37, Todd faced life-threatening conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to two heart surgeries and a remarkable recovery. He shares powerful lessons on the importance of loving well, prioritizing family time, and being prepared with insurance and wills. Todd's story highlights resilience, faith, and the need for physical and emotional strength. Listeners are encouraged to cherish each moment and plan for unforeseen events to protect their loved ones. Todd's journey serves as an inspiring reminder of life's unpredictability and the power of hope.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! For the remainder of the year, I am bringing back the most downloaded episodes of the year. First up is Joel Oliver! His "easy peasy" heart surgery story might surprise you. Joel takes us step by step through his mitral valve replacement journey, revealing moments of doubt, resilience, and unexpected challenges along the way. While Joel's surgery marked a significant event in his life, the real intrigue lies in his post-surgery perspectives. Did this intense experience radically change his outlook on life, or did it simply become another chapter in his adventurous narrative? Whether you're a heart patient, a caregiver, or just curious about human resilience, Joel's insights promise to resonate deeply.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! Wow! This week's episode is what I needed when I was facing heart surgery and I know you'll find it super helpful too.I interview Dr. Laura Suarez Pardo, a psychocardiologist from Mayo Clinic! Together, she and I explore how mental health impacts cardiac health. Dr. Suarez emphasizes the need for support programs for those with chronic heart conditions. The conversation underscores the importance of addressing psychological issues like depression and anxiety to improve cardiovascular outcomes. I share my personal journey with congenital heart disease and how nutritional changes and mental health therapy aided my recovery. The episode highlights self-compassion, the significance of a supportive healthcare team, and the transition to a "survivorship mindset."More about today's guest:Laura Suarez Pardo, MD │ Senior Associate Consultant │ Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry -- Psychocardiology│ Assistant Professor of Psychiatry │ Mayo Clinic College of MedicinePatient Support Networks♥ AHA: https://supportnetwork.heart.org/s/♥ AHA Caregiver support: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/caregiver-support♥ Mended Hearts: https://mendedhearts.org/connect/chapters_groups/♥ Women Heart: https://www.womenheart.org/find-support/♥ Congenital Heart Disease MN: https://www.conqueringchd.org/minnesota/♥ Adult Congenital Heart Association – Heart to Heart Peer Mentors: https://www.achaheart.org/your-heart/programs/heart-to-heart/Books♥ Facing Heart Disease: A Guide for Patients and Their Families by Theodore A Stern MD, Scott R Beach MD, JamesL Januzzi MD♥ Anger Kills: Seventeen Strategies for Controlling the Hostility That Can Harm Your Health by Redford Williams♥ ICD connection: Living with an implantable cardioverter by H. McFarland.♥ One beat at a time – Living with sudden cardiac death by M.D. Noble, M. D.♥ Russell Douglas Publishing.♥ defibrillator. A collection of patient & family stories. Ann Arbor: MPublishing.♥ Mindfulness for Beginners by Jon Kabat-Zinn.♥ Full Catastrophe Living by Jon Kabat-Zinn♥ A Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Workbook by Bob Stahl PhD, Elisha Goldstein PhD, Saki Santorelli EdD MA♥ Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief by Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD♥ The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living Paperback by Russ Harris♥ Overcoming Depression: A Cognitive Therapy Approach by Mark Gilson and Arthur Freeman♥ Unwinding Anxiety by Judson Brewer♥ Mastery your Anxiety and Worry by David H. Barlow and Michelle G. Craske♥ The Invisible Kingdom: Reimagining Chronic Illness by Meghan O'Rourke♥ How to Be Sick: A Buddhist-Inspired Guide for the Chronically Ill and Their Caregivers by Toni Bernhard♥ Minding the Body Workbook by Jason M. Satterfield♥ Coping with Chronic Illness: A Cognitive-Behavioral Approach for Adherence and Depression by Steven Safren, Jeffrey Gonzalez,, Nafisseh Soroudi♥ Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff (Author)Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go
Hey Heart Buddies! I welcome back Robyn Peacock for an update on her incredible journey for “Hope for the Holidays." This conversation is packed with Robyn’s reflections on her battles with an aortic aneurysm and bicuspid aortic valve. Learn about her physical triumphs and the often-overlooked mental health challenges that many heart patients face post-treatment. Robyn shares her newfound purpose working with Heart Valve Voice and how she brings hope and support to fellow heart patients. Plus, a special revelation about the rising buzz around mental health at cardiac conferences. Tune in to find out why this episode could be the emotional boost you need this holiday season. Subscribe and join Boots and Robyn as they dive into the importance of community, self-advocacy, and listening to your body’s signals.You can hear Robyn's original interview here.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well. Mentioned in this episode:Heart Valve Voice - USBe sure to check out HHV - US!HVV-US
Hey Heart Friends. I sit down with previous guest, Jeff Holden, to explore the profound changes heart surgery brings into one's life. Jeff recaps his own battle against myocardial bridging, recounting the gratitude he feels every day. From open-heart surgery to life-altering dreams, Jeff unpacks the layers of his experiences, revealing how overcoming a near-fatal condition has fueled his passion for advocacy and storytelling. Curious about the life-changing dream Jeff had after surgery? Tune in to understand why this dream has become the cornerstone of his new mission and find out how he’s making a difference in the field of cardiology. Plus, discover the significance of a simple bracelet—a daily reminder to appreciate life’s small blessings. Listen to Jeff's original episode here. You can find his podcast, My Imperfect Heart, anywhere you get your podcasts.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.
Hey Heart Buddies! I am back for part two of Hope for the Holidays with Lisa Mihan who returns to share her incredible progress post-myectomy. Lisa was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy but never gave up. She has transformed from struggling with daily symptoms to thriving on the tennis court and embracing a more vibrant life. This episode isn't just about physical recovery—it's about overcoming mental and emotional hurdles too. Tune in to hear relatable stories of finding hope, building community, and the surprising gifts that come from life's toughest challenges.You can listen to Lisa's original interview here.Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The Joyful Beat zoom group is where you'll find connection and hope that you aren't alone in your journey.If you just want to support the show as a one-time gift (thank you), go here.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.comInstagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.