Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD

Amy
  • 5.0 (23)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Biweekly

Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD is a podcast hosted by Amy Erhart and Meagan Houpt, both born with a congenital heart defect known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). Through candid conversations, we share our personal journeys and amplify the voices of others living with congenital heart disease—patients, caregivers, spouses, and advocates alike. Each episode is rooted in honesty, education, and connection, exploring both the challenges and the triumphs of life with CHD. Our mission is to raise awareness, provide education, and offer hope for the future of the CHD community. Whether you are living with CHD, loving someone who is, or simply looking to learn more, this space is for you. We invite you to join us as we open our hearts and share real stories that matter. Welcome to Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD.

  1. Oct 26

    A Career Dedicated to Heart Warriors with Dr. Gil Wernovsky

    Today we have the privilege of speaking with Gil Wenovsky.  He shares with is the time he has spent in pediatric cardiology being a cardiac intensivist and what it has meant to him over the years.  After 43 years as a practicing physician he has seen medical field make leaps and bounds while also being part of the movement.  Not only was he a pediatric cardiologist/cardac intensivist, he also has a great interest in the behavioral aspect.  His experience has allowed him to write about the topic and bring some major changes into the practice that he seeks to provide for his patients.  He shares the history and changes that have happened over the decades in the cardiac world and is nothing short of fascinating and he has had the privilege to have not only a ring side seat, but also be involved in those changes.  We hope you enjoy this episode. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  2. Oct 12

    HeartWorks- We Build Hearts with Tim Nelson

    Today, Tim Nelson, CEO and Co-Founder of HeartWorks, joins us to share who HeartWorks is and why their mission matters so deeply in the CHD world. As Tim talks about the meaning behind their slogan, “We Build Hearts,” his passion for the future of congenital heart disease care is undeniable. HeartWorks is focused on pushing beyond survival and striving toward something bigger—a future centered on innovation, research, and ultimately, a cure for CHD. From their collaborative approach to advancing research studies to creating opportunities for CHD patients and families to get involved, HeartWorks is working to make meaningful change for the community. Tim’s energy and vision are inspiring, and this conversation is a powerful reminder that there are people passionately fighting for a better future for every heart warrior. https://heartworksinc.org/ https://www.facebook.com/webuildhearts/ https://www.instagram.com/webuildhearts/ If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  3. Sep 28

    Authentic Conversations within CHD- with Josh Knoll

    Let’s have some real conversation. In today’s episode, we sit down with Josh for an authentic discussion covering a wide range of topics that many in the CHD community think about every day. From mindset, dating, and marriage to navigating difficult conversations with children and dealing with the frustrations of insurance, no topic was off limits. This honest and heartfelt conversation shines a light on the many layers of living with CHD and reminds us just how much patients carry—both physically and emotionally. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  4. Sep 14

    Two Stories, One Shared Understanding: Pregnancy, CHD, and Choice- with Co-hosts Amy and Meagan

    **TRIGGER WARNING- CONVERSATION ON PREGNANCY** In today’s episode, we, as co-hosts, open up about our personal journeys surrounding family and children. While our paths look very different, we share a common understanding of the emotional weight that comes with navigating pregnancy and CHD. From adoption and surrogacy to choosing a child-free life, every journey is valid—none greater or less meaningful than another. Through our stories, we hope to create space for all experiences and remind you that there is no one “right” path. Two different stories. Two different outcomes. And two very happy, fulfilled individuals living with CHD. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  5. Aug 31

    A Legacy That Lives On: The Ollie Hinkle Heart Foundation - with Anna Farrell

    Jen and Mark Hinkle lost their son Ollie to CHD complications in 2013. In the midst of unimaginable grief, they created something truly impactful in his honor—The Ollie Hinkle Heart Foundation—which has grown into one of the most comprehensive support systems in the CHD community. Through their work, Ollie’s name and legacy continue to touch lives across the country, offering support, connection, and care to families who need it most. In this episode, Amy and Meagan sit down with Anna Farrell—heart mom and OHHF’s fundraising development manager—to explore the many ways the foundation is making a difference. From national mental health therapy matching and meal delivery programs to CPR events at local bars and preventative heart screenings, this conversation highlights the far-reaching impact of a legacy built on love, loss, and purpose. https://theohhf.org/ https://www.instagram.com/theohhf/ https://www.facebook.com/theohhf/ If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  6. Aug 17

    Turning Setbacks into Strength with Joe Williamson

    If you’re looking for someone who truly embodies a glass-half-full mindset, Joe is your person. In today’s episode, Joe shares how his perspective has helped him maintain positivity through life’s challenges. His journey hasn’t been easy—facing open-heart surgery at 17 and again at 29, along with the setback of losing a job—but finding his way to a career he loves. Joe opens up about the power of mindset and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people, offering a meaningful reminder of how both can shape and strengthen your CHD journey. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  7. Aug 3

    The Brett Boyer Foundation with Ellen Boyer

    Today, we’re honored to speak with Ellen Boyer, Co-Founder and President of the The Brett Boyer Foundation. Through this conversation, Ellen shares the beautiful and deeply moving story of her daughter, Brett. Born with both a congenital heart defect and Down syndrome, Brett brought immense joy and light to everyone around her. Even through profound loss, Ellen, her husband, and their community have transformed their grief into something truly meaningful—creating a foundation that supports CHD, Down syndrome, mental health, research, and provides financial assistance to families in need. We also highlight two incredible parts of their mission: the Warriors program, which celebrates Heart Warriors and creates a space to embrace and honor their stories and scars, and Brett’s Barn—founded by Brett’s aunt, Caroline Bryan, and fully funded by Caroline and Luke Bryan. Ellen shares how Brett’s Barn came to life and the impact it continues to have today. Brett’s story is nothing short of extraordinary—offering hope to families navigating grief and strength to those still in the fight. Join us as we celebrate Brett’s life and legacy with her mother, Ellen. https://www.thebrettboyerfoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/brightforbrett/ https://www.facebook.com/brightforbrett/ If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

  8. Jul 20

    The Balance of It All- with Jake Chico

    Today, Jake joins us to share his perspective on his heart journey and the path it has led him down. From navigating the transplant evaluation process to reflecting on what it all means for his future, Jake offers an honest and grounded look at life in a complex season. He walks us through his recent appointments, giving insight into what transplant evaluation can look like, while also opening up about his mindset along the way. Jake brings a refreshing balance — reminding us not to take everything too seriously, while still honoring the weight and reality of what he’s facing.  If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com Find our journey’s on Facebook: My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

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5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD is a podcast hosted by Amy Erhart and Meagan Houpt, both born with a congenital heart defect known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). Through candid conversations, we share our personal journeys and amplify the voices of others living with congenital heart disease—patients, caregivers, spouses, and advocates alike. Each episode is rooted in honesty, education, and connection, exploring both the challenges and the triumphs of life with CHD. Our mission is to raise awareness, provide education, and offer hope for the future of the CHD community. Whether you are living with CHD, loving someone who is, or simply looking to learn more, this space is for you. We invite you to join us as we open our hearts and share real stories that matter. Welcome to Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD.

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