Amplify: A Podcast Powered by Patient Voice Partners

Ursula Mann, Brent Korte, Anne Marie Hayes, Christine Pisapia, Barry Liden
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Amplify brings you real stories and bold conversations — from patients and caregivers to clinicians, advocates, innovators, and system leaders. Together, we explore the human side of healthcare and the bold ideas that make it better. Powered by Patient Voice Partners, this podcast elevates lived experience to shape better care, access, and policy. Tune in to hear what healthcare looks like — when people are finally heard.

  1. 1D AGO

    Listening to the Heart: Lived Experience as a Catalyst for Better Cardiac Care

    What happens when surviving cancer in your 20s leads to a completely different health journey decades later? In this powerful episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, hosts Ursula Mann and Anne-Marie Hayes sit down with Jackie to explore the realities of women’s heart health, delayed diagnosis, and why patient-led advocacy is changing the future of care. After surviving Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at 24, Jackie went on to build a successful career in fashion and live what she thought was a healthy, “normal” life — until nearly 20 years later, she experienced chemotherapy-induced heart failure. What began as flu-like symptoms eventually led to a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, opening her eyes to the long-term “legacy” cancer treatment can leave behind. Today, Jackie is a passionate advocate working to improve awareness, access to care, and support systems for women living with heart disease. She shares why women are still too often misdiagnosed, how heart disease symptoms can look very different in women, and why advocacy starts with simply believing that your health matters. This episode is an urgent and empowering conversation about equalizing care, listening to lived experience, and ensuring women are no longer treated as “small men” in cardiovascular medicine. Why You Should Listen Learn how chemotherapy and cancer treatments can impact heart health decades laterHear why women’s heart disease symptoms are still frequently overlooked or misdiagnosedUnderstand the growing connection between gynecology, hormones, and cardiologyDiscover the importance of patient-led support communities and advocacyGain practical insights into heart health risk factors every woman should knowExplore how Canada and global organizations are working to improve women’s cardiac careEpisode Highlights 00:32 – Why women’s heart health remains under-researched and misunderstood04:35 – Jackie’s cancer diagnosis at 24 and the long-term effects of treatment06:32 – Discovering chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy nearly 20 years later07:54 – The moment Jackie’s mother pushed her to request an EKG09:49 – The alarming statistics around women and heart disease misdiagnosis12:42 – Feeling isolated while searching for trustworthy patient support16:48 – Jackie’s advice for women: “Put yourself first”18:12 – Hidden heart disease risk factors linked to hormones, pregnancy, and autoimmune conditions22:48 – Why women are still being treated as “small men” in research and medication dosing25:30 – What “bikini medicine” means and why it limits women’s care28:24 – Canada’s progress in women’s heart health and the new national women’s health framework30:43 – Jackie’s “Heart Warrior Queens” philosophy: love boldly, live bravely, lead your own journeyResources & Organizations HeartLife FoundationHeartLife Women / Life in HeartsCanadian Women’s Heart Health AllianceGlobal Heart HubBill S-243: An Act to establish a national framework for women’s health in Canada About Jackie Jackie is a patient advocate living with chemotherapy-induced heart failure following treatment for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in her 20s. After nearly two decades working in the fashion industry as an apparel buyer, her diagnosis inspired her to dedicate her life to advocacy and women’s heart health awareness. She is the

    32 min

  2. MAY 1

    From Wheezing to Leadership: Living with Asthma and Leading Change

    Episode Summary This episode is sponsored by Medlior Health Outcomes Research. Sponsorship supports Amplify, while all conversations and perspectives remain independently produced. In this episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, hosts Ursula Mann and Anne Marie Hayes are joined by Jeff Beach, President & CEO of Asthma Canada. Jeff shares his deeply personal journey—from a childhood marked by severe allergies to a life-changing asthma diagnosis in adulthood—and how that experience shaped his path into patient advocacy and leadership. The conversation explores the realities of living with asthma, including common misconceptions, the importance of proper disease management, and what “good control” truly looks like. Jeff also provides a behind-the-scenes look at leading a national patient organization—navigating funding, maintaining independence, and ensuring patient voices remain at the center of healthcare decisions. With World Asthma Day approaching, this episode is both timely and powerful—reminding us that asthma is not just occasional wheezing, but a chronic condition that requires awareness, action, and advocacy. Why You Should Listen Understand the difference between controlled and uncontrolled asthmaLearn how lived experience shapes healthcare leadership and advocacyDiscover why asthma is often misunderstood—and underestimatedHear practical insights on managing triggers and improving daily lifeGet inspired by stories of resilience, including patients who went from struggling to walk to running marathonsGain perspective on how patient organizations operate, stay independent, and drive changeEpisode Highlights 00:01 – Introduction to Amplify & today’s conversation Setting the stage: patient voices and why this discussion matters. 04:39 – Jeff’s journey with asthma From childhood allergies to an unexpected diagnosis in adulthood. 07:21 – The reality of diagnosis Why asthma can be difficult to identify—especially in children. 11:22 – Rescue vs. controller medication What proper asthma management really looks like. 13:14 – Signs your asthma is not controlled Common misconceptions and warning signs to watch for. 14:12 – Can people with asthma stay active? Breaking the myth—why movement is part of better control. 18:38 – From lived experience to leadership Jeff’s path into patient advocacy and nonprofit leadership. 23:36 – Funding, independence, and trust How patient organizations operate and stay patient-centered. 27:53 – The role of patient voices in healthcare Why advocacy and storytelling drive real change. 31:17 – Looking ahead: World Asthma Day Shifting from awareness to taking asthma seriously. Links & References Asthma Canada: https://asthma.ca/Asthma Canada YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AsthmaSocietyCanadaAsthma & Allergy HelpLine: https://asthma.ca/what-we-do/helpline/Patient Voice Partners: https://patientvoicepartners.com Medlior Health Outcomes Research: https://www.medlior.com/ Medical Disclaimer: The content shared on Amplify is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing discussed on this podcast—including stories, experiences, perspectives, or commentary from hosts, guests, or contributors—sho

    35 min

  3. APR 24

    The Gift of Life, Twice: Charles Cook on Why Organ Donation Matters

    Episode Summary In this deeply moving episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, we sit down with Charles Cook—a two-time deceased donor transplant recipient who received a life-saving heart transplant in 2016 and a kidney transplant in 2017.  Charles shares his extraordinary journey—from being diagnosed with a genetic heart condition at 17, to surviving a massive stroke, to enduring years of recovery and ultimately facing end-stage heart failure. His story is one of resilience, faith, and an unshakable commitment to “keep banging”—his personal mantra for overcoming life’s toughest obstacles.  In recognition of National Organ & Tissue Donation Awareness Week, this conversation highlights the life-saving impact of organ donation, the importance of representation in healthcare, and why Charles has dedicated his life to giving back through advocacy and patient support. Why You Should Listen  Hear a powerful, real-life story of survival against overwhelming odds  Understand the true impact of organ donation—from a recipient’s perspective  Learn how resilience and mindset can shape outcomes in the face of adversity  Discover the importance of advocacy and representation in healthcare systems  Be inspired to take action and help amplify patient voices Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction to Charles Cook and his powerful story 03:30 – A life-changing diagnosis at 17—and losing a dream overnight 12:30 – A sudden stroke and a near-death experience on the highway 21:00 – Facing heart failure and the reality of limited time 23:30 – The life-saving role of an LVAD as a bridge to transplant 27:00 – “Keep Banging”: the mindset that carried Charles through 31:00 – Advocacy, representation, and addressing disparities in care 38:00 – Life after transplant and finding purpose in giving back Links & References: ACB Organ Health YouTube Transplant Ambassador Program Kidney FoundationAbout the Guest Charles Cook is a two-time organ transplant recipient, receiving a heart transplant in 2016 and a kidney transplant in 2017 at Toronto General Hospital.  He is an active volunteer and advocate, working with organizations such as the Kidney Foundation of Canada, the Transplant Ambassador Program, and the African Caribbean and Black Organ Health initiative.  Driven by gratitude for the “two gifts of life” he received, Charles is committed to paying it forward by supporting patients, raising awareness, and advocating for more equitable access to transplant care. Medical Disclaimer: The content shared on Amplify is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing discussed on this podcast—including stories, experiences, perspectives, or commentary from hosts, guests, or contributors—should be interpreted as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other licensed provider with any questions regarding your health, medical conditions, or treatment options.

    42 min

  4. APR 10

    Breaking the Silence: Harjeet Kaur on Rare Cancer, Cultural Stigma, and Turning Pain into Purpose

    Episode Summary In this powerful episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, Harjeet Kaur shares her journey through an ultra-rare stage IV blood cancer—subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (SPTCL)—and the life-altering moments that followed. From months of unexplained symptoms and relentless advocacy for answers, to undergoing a stem cell transplant during the height of COVID-19, Harjeet’s story is one of resilience, courage, and survival.  But her journey goes beyond the medical. As a South Asian woman, Harjeet opens up about the cultural silence surrounding cancer, the stigma she faced, and the emotional weight of navigating illness without open conversations. Today, she is using her voice to break that silence—advocating for awareness, representation, and more inclusive support systems for patients from underrepresented communities. Why You Should Listen  To hear a deeply human story of survival, strength, and transformation  To understand how culture and stigma can shape the cancer experience  To learn why patient advocacy—especially self-advocacy—can be life-saving  To gain insight into the challenges faced by young adults and immigrants navigating healthcare systems  To be inspired by how one voice can create impact, build community, and drive changeEpisode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction to Harjeet’s ultra-rare cancer journey 03:39 – Early symptoms and being dismissed as “just a viral illness” 06:02 – Months without answers—and fighting to be heard 07:50 – The life-changing moment: stage IV cancer diagnosis at 32 10:37 – Emotional impact and silent suffering 14:47 – “I want to live”: facing limited treatment options 15:47 – Choosing a stem cell transplant—and her brother as donor 17:37 – Transplant during COVID and complete isolation 19:32 – Cultural stigma and silence around cancer in South Asian communities 24:47 – Turning pain into purpose: advocacy and building Chai & Hope Resources & Links  Patient Voice Partners: https://patientvoicepartners.com Young Adult Cancer Canada (YAC)  Canadian Cancer Society  Harjeet Kaur on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harjeetkaur Chai & Hope (South Asian Cancer Community) https://www.instagram.com/chaiandhopeMedical Disclaimer: The content shared on Amplify is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing discussed on this podcast—including stories, experiences, perspectives, or commentary from hosts, guests, or contributors—should be interpreted as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other licensed provider with any questions regarding your health, medical conditions, or treatment options.

    38 min

  5. MAR 27

    Two Steps Forward: Living, Advocating, and Rebuilding After a Brain Tumor with Claire Snyman

    What happens when your life changes in an instant—and you’re left to navigate uncertainty, fear, and a system that isn’t built around you? In this episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, hosts Ursula Mann and Brent Korte sit down with Claire Snyman, a brain tumor survivor, patient advocate, and health data champion. Claire shares the moment everything shifted—from a sudden onset of vertigo to an unexpected diagnosis of a brain tumor. What followed was not just a medical journey, but an emotional and systemic one—marked by uncertainty, gaps in communication, and the need to advocate for her own care while critically ill. Through her story, Claire reveals what it means to “surf the waves of uncertainty,” rebuild life after brain surgery, and transform personal experience into purpose. Today, she is helping reshape how patients access care, understand their data, and take an active role in their health journey. This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every patient is a story—and a system that still has work to do. Why You Should Listen You want to understand the real-life impact of a brain tumor diagnosis beyond the clinical perspective  You’re interested in patient advocacy and the role of caregivers in navigating care  You work in healthcare, research, or policy and want insight into system gaps  You believe patients should have access to their data—and a voice in their care Episode Highlights[00:00:00] Introduction & setting the stage Ursula and Brent introduce Claire Snyman’s story and the realities behind a brain tumor diagnosis [00:04:24] Life before diagnosis Claire shares her busy life as a working mom before everything changed [00:05:18] First symptoms appear Sudden vertigo, migraines, and the first signs that something was wrong [00:07:09] The unexpected diagnosis Hearing “you have a brain tumor” — and realizing the news was about her [00:08:31] Processing the shock alone Claire receives the diagnosis while her husband is out of the room [00:10:53] Living in uncertainty (“watch and wait”) What it means to monitor a brain tumor while fearing every symptom [00:12:48] Surfing the waves of uncertainty Learning how to mentally cope with fear and constant unknowns [00:14:04] Symptoms worsen The turning point when her condition begins to deteriorate [00:16:02] When the system fails A missed diagnosis, lack of documentation, and gaps in care [00:17:24] Medical emergency & urgent surgery Discovering the tumor doubled in size and required immediate intervention [00:18:52] The importance of advocacy and support Why having a caregiver and speaking up can be life-saving [00:21:13] Living with long-term effects Brain injury, memory challenges, and invisible struggles [00:26:54] “Two Steps Forward” mindset How Claire rebuilt her life and found meaning after recovery [00:27:53] Empowering patients through data & advocacy Helping others take ownership of their health and information [00:30:14] Advice for patients and caregivers Track, educate, ask, and manage — a practical framework for navigating care [00:31:11] Finding healing in nature How walking and hiking became part of Claire’s recoveryLinks: Website: https://twosteps.ca/ Mental health resources: https://twosteps.ca/mental-health-resources/ Book link:

    31 min

  6. MAR 20

    From Dialysis to Second Chances: The Truth About Kidney Transplants and Patient Advocacy

    Kidney disease is often called a “silent illness”—but for those living with it, the reality is anything but quiet. In this powerful episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, Ursula Mann joined by Christine Pisapia and special guest Susan McKenzie, a kidney transplant recipient and leading patient advocate. Sue shares her deeply personal journey—from delayed diagnosis and emergency dialysis to receiving a life-changing transplant from her sister-in-law. Together, they unpack the hidden challenges within the healthcare system, including missed early detection, long donor testing timelines, and the emotional toll of dialysis. The conversation also shines a light on the transformative impact of peer support through the Transplant Ambassador Program, and why a “transplant-first” approach could improve both patient outcomes and healthcare costs. This episode is a candid, eye-opening look at the realities of kidney disease—and a hopeful call to action for better awareness, advocacy, and patient-centered care. 🎧 Why You Should Listen Gain a real-life perspective on kidney disease, dialysis, and transplantUnderstand the gaps in early diagnosis and healthcare systemsLearn why living donor transplants are often the best optionDiscover the emotional and mental health impact of dialysisBe inspired by powerful patient advocacy and peer support initiatives⏱️ Episode Highlights [00:00:00] – Introduction to Kidney Transplant Conversations Ursula and Brent introduce the episode and welcome Christine Pia and guest Susan McKenzie. [00:02:00] – Sue’s Personal Journey with Kidney Disease Family history, early warning signs, and the long road to diagnosis. [00:04:30] – Delayed Diagnosis and Missed Opportunities How lack of early intervention led to disease progression. [00:06:00] – Finding a Living Donor Challenges of genetic conditions and the emotional journey of donor matching. [00:08:30] – What Donor Testing Really Involves A deep dive into the extensive and often lengthy donor evaluation process. [00:12:00] – Why Preemptive Transplant Matters The missed opportunity to avoid dialysis and why timing is critical. [00:14:30] – The Reality of Dialysis Breaking the myth: why dialysis is physically and emotionally exhausting. [00:17:00] – The Hidden Struggles Patients Face Living with illness while trying to maintain a “normal” life. [00:18:30] – The Power of Peer Support How the Transplant Ambassador Program is changing patient experiences. [00:24:00] – Advocacy and the ‘Transplant First’ Movement Why systemic change is needed to prioritize transplants over dialysis. [00:26:00] – The Cost of Dialysis vs. Transplant A compelling case for better healthcare investment decisions. [00:29:00] – Barriers to Living Donation Why willing donors sometimes don’t make it through the system. [00:32:00] – Debunking Myths About Donor Risk Understanding the real (and minimal) risks of kidney donation. [00:33:30] – What People Don’t Know About Kidney Disease Why awareness and education are still lacking. [00:34:00] – A New Podcast to Amplify Kidney Patient Voices Sue shares her upcoming initiative to educate and support patients. [00:35:00] – A Heartwarming Ending Sue reflects on life after transplant—and time with her twin granddaughters. Want to Share Your Voice? If you’re a patient or caregiver, you can join Patient Voice Connect to share your experiences and help shape healthcare here. Join our email list to get new episode updates

    37 min

  7. MAR 14

    Impact in Action: Leadership, Caregiving, and System Change

    In this episode of Amplify: Elevating Patient Voices, hosts Ursula Mann and Brent Korte sit down with Sandra Walker, venture capital partner at Hard Climate Venture Studio and founder of Viacern. Sandra has spent decades working across global healthcare systems—spanning pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, diagnostics, venture capital, and now climate innovation. Throughout her career, she has been drawn to tackling the kinds of complex, messy problems that require systems thinking, collaboration, and bold leadership. The conversation explores how leaders make decisions within complex systems, why unconscious bias often shapes those decisions, and how personal experiences—like caregiving—can influence how we approach change. Sandra also shares her journey as a remote caregiver for her father during a critical health period, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges many caregivers face but rarely talk about. From healthcare leadership to climate innovation, this episode examines how different systems intersect—and why solving tomorrow’s healthcare challenges requires thinking beyond traditional boundaries.

    36 min

  8. FEB 13

    Redefining Care: Women’s Wellness, Emotional Wellbeing, and Leadership

    Episode Summary In this episode, Ursula Mann is joined by Christine Pisapia for a thoughtful conversation with Sigrun Watson, a healthcare leader and entrepreneur passionate about improving women’s health and reducing stigma around mental health. Sigrun shares her personal journey with perfectionism, an eating disorder, depression, and what it meant to seek help—and why storytelling and community can be powerful first steps toward healing. The conversation also explores gaps in women’s health education and care, including pelvic floor health and menopause, and what Sigrun is building through her work with UROSPOT to make pelvic health support more accessible and modern. Why you should listen Listen if you want: A real, compassionate conversation about mental health, perfectionism, and asking for helpInsight into why women’s health is still under-researched and under-discussedA clearer understanding of pelvic floor health, menopause-related changes, and why symptoms are often normalizedA leadership perspective grounded in empathy, lived experience, and patient-centered careHopeful reminders that you’re not alone—and that support can start with hearing someone else’s story Episode Highlights [00:00:00] Introduction Ursula and Brent welcome listeners to Amplify – Elevating Patient Voices and introduce the themes of women’s health, mental health, and leadership. [00:03:00] Meet Sigrun Watson Sigrun shares her Icelandic roots, career journey from dietitian to pharmaceutical executive, and her passion for healthcare transformation. [00:06:11] Perfectionism & Eating Disorders Sigrun opens up about her struggle with bulimia, the connection between perfectionism and eating disorders, and how mental health shaped her career path. [00:08:54] The Impact on Young People Christine and Sigrun discuss perfectionism in children, early warning signs for parents, and the pressures of social media. [00:12:15] Depression & Dark Thoughts in University Sigrun shares her experience with depression during first-year university and why early intervention and support matter. [00:14:03] The Power of Storytelling & Unsinkable Sigrun discusses her work with Unsinkable, the healing power of shared stories, and how vulnerability creates connection and hope. [00:18:52] Mental Health Access & Affordability The conversation explores barriers to accessing care and why hearing others’ lived experiences can be a powerful first step. [00:22:45] Women’s Health Gaps Ursula transitions the discussion to women’s health—highlighting stigma, lack of education, and systemic research gaps in menopause and midlife care. [00:23:19] Sigrun’s Menopause Journey Sigrun shares her personal experience with perimenopause and menopause, and how it reshaped her perspective on healthcare. [00:27:55] Pelvic Floor Health Explained A deep dive into pelvic floor muscle function, why issues like bladder leakage are common but under-discussed, and how hormonal changes accelerate muscle weakening. [00:30:36] What UROSPOT Does Sigrun explains the technology behind pelvic floor rehabilitation and how non-invasive electromagnetic therapy works. [00:33:41] The Reward of Being Close to Patients Sigrun reflects on moving from corporate healthcare into entrepreneurship and the profound impact of working directly with patients. [00:34:43] Closing Reflections Ursula and Christine thank Sigrun for her candor and leadership in advancing mental health awareness and women’s health innovation. Want to Share Your Voice? If you’re a patient or caregiver, you&

    28 min
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About

Amplify brings you real stories and bold conversations — from patients and caregivers to clinicians, advocates, innovators, and system leaders. Together, we explore the human side of healthcare and the bold ideas that make it better. Powered by Patient Voice Partners, this podcast elevates lived experience to shape better care, access, and policy. Tune in to hear what healthcare looks like — when people are finally heard.

Information

  • Creator
    Ursula Mann, Brent Korte, Anne Marie Hayes, Christine Pisapia, Barry Liden
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Amplify: A Podcast Powered by Patient Voice Partners
  • Show Website
    Amplify: A Podcast Powered by Patient Voice Partners