Stories from the Heart

Heart Foundation

Welcome to "Stories from the Heart," an engaging podcast series that delves into the personal experiences of the people navigating life with heart conditions, and of those researching solutions to heart disease's biggest challenges. The series aims to harness the story-telling power of people's experiences with heart disease, Australia's leading cause of death, to raise awareness that could save lives, and influence positive action on heart health. 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.

  1. 1d ago

    Internet bias and women's heart attack symptoms

    Why women's heart attack symptoms are still overlooked — and how it nearly cost Fiona her life Political cartoonist Fiona Katauskas shares the morning she collapsed at home, convinced she was "just imagining it." As she recalls, "I didn't call an ambulance because I thought, oh, I don't want to cause a fuss." Despite being fit and active, her symptoms didn't match the male‑centric heart attack descriptions she found online. Only after searching "women's heart attack symptoms" did she realise the danger — hours later. Her story highlights a critical truth: women often experience different heart attack symptoms, yet public information and clinical practice still skew male. Key Themes Subtle symptoms: dizziness, sweating, fainting, right‑arm numbness, jaw/neck tightness Why online symptom lists mislead women Gender bias in heart research and diagnosis The cultural pressure on women to "not make a fuss" Adjusting to life after a heart attack LINKS Why women delay calling emergency services Monash University research on why women hesitate to call 000 during a suspected heart attack: https://www.monash.edu/medicine/news/latest/2025-articles/why-women-wait-to-call-000-when-they-suspect-theyre-having-a-heart-attack Gender bias in symptom recognition & clinical awareness Lack of education and awareness around female‑specific symptoms (including among clinicians): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9399064/ Underrepresentation of women in cardiovascular trials How clinical trial gaps worsen diagnostic and treatment inequality: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10978176/ Drivers of inequality in diagnosis & treatment Factors contributing to poorer outcomes for women with CVD: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9399064/ A similar real‑world case British Heart Foundation story mirroring Fiona's experience, plus insights on AI amplifying gender bias: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/heart-attacks-in-women A Note for Listeners If you're a woman over 45, or an Indigenous woman over 30, speak with your GP about a Medicare‑funded heart health check. And if something feels wrong — don't ignore it. Heart health check: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/heart-health-checks Heart attack symptoms: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/heart-attack

    22 min

  2. May 19

    The Breast Friend Project

    In this episode of Stories from the Heart, we hear from Sadie Goddard-Wrighton — a South Australian wellness coach, breast cancer survivor and founder of the Breast Friend Project, a Heart Foundation walking group supporting people affected by breast cancer. Sadie shares her story of recovery, the role movement played in her healing, and how connection with others became a vital part of rebuilding her health and wellbeing. The conversation also explores why walking, nature and community can make such a powerful difference. In this episode, we discuss: Why movement and time in nature can support healing How the Breast Friend Project began and grew The importance of community and social participation for overall health Resources and links Heart Foundation Walking MyHeart MyLife (support) #StoriesFromTheHeart #PodcastEpisode #HeartHealth #BreastCancerRecovery #HealingJourney #WalkingForWellbeing #Wellness #SupportMatters #CommunityHealing #MovementMatters #heartfoundation #heartfoundationwalking

    15 min

  3. Apr 8

    No Money, No Time? You can still make healthy meals

    No Money, No Time? It doesn't matter – you can still make healthy meals With food bills creeping ever higher, many people worry about the expense of putting healthy meals on the table. But there are solutions.  In this episode, we explore how innovative tools and strategic partnerships are empowering Australians to improve their diet within budget and time constraints. This must-listen episode features insights from two of the most insightful nutrition experts in the business: Professor Clare Collins, a renowned University of Newcastle nutrition scientist and podcast host (check out her brilliant work by accessing the link to the 'No Money, No Time' website below), and the Heart Foundation's Manager of Food and Nutrition Claire Gardner, who discuss practical strategies for fostering healthier eating habits that can be sustained long-term. Key Topics The origin and impact of the No Money, No Time platform, including its popular healthy eating quiz How small dietary changes can lead to significant health benefits The importance of making healthy eating accessible via smartphones Practical tips for shopping smarter—focusing on vegetables, fruits, and budget-friendly food swaps Resources available from the Heart Foundation to support heart-healthy, budget-friendly eating The concept of a flexible, sustainable "heart healthy eating pattern" instead of restrictive diets Resources & Links No Money No Time Website Heart Foundation Recipes and Resources

    19 min

  4. Mar 16

    Empowering youth through the Health Hive

    In this episode of Stories from the Heart, we look at ithe Health Hive, an initiative reshaping of how young people engage with public health research—especially heart health. Host, Matt Dunn speaks with Associate Professor Stephanie Partridge and members of her team about why youth involvement matters, what's holding young people back, and how the Health Hive is breaking down barriers with practical, confidence‑building solutions. You'll hear personal stories from young researchers who've stepped into the world of public health, discovered their own capabilities, and found their voices in spaces where youth perspectives have traditionally been overlooked. The conversation also explores the growing momentum behind youth‑led insights in health policy and the broader challenges young people face in heart health today. Whether you're passionate about public health, youth empowerment, or community‑driven change, this episode offers a hopeful look at what happens when young people are invited to the table—and given the tools to thrive. Want to know more? Go to: https://www.youthhealthhive.com/free-online-course

    18 min
  5. Anxiety or heart disease? The misdiagnosis of a MasterChef

    Mar 6

    Anxiety or heart disease? The misdiagnosis of a MasterChef

    In this powerful episode of Stories from the Heart, we speak with renowned anti–food waste campaigner and chef Mandy Hall, who shares her deeply personal journey of misdiagnosis to a life‑threatening heart condition. Despite experiencing persistent and alarming symptoms, the former MasterChef contestant was told her condition was anxiety‑related. It wasn't until much later that she discovered she had an 90% blockage in a major artery — a diagnosis that would ultimately save her life. Mandy reflects on the challenges women face in having their heart disease symptoms recognised and taken seriously, and the emotional toll of not being believed. She also discusses how her experience has fuelled her passion to raise awareness about women's heart health, encouraging others to listen to their bodies and advocate for themselves. This episode is a confronting and inspiring reminder that heart disease doesn't always look the way we expect — and that early recognition can make all the difference. In this episode, we explore:        Why heart disease symptoms in women are often missed or misdiagnosed     The dangers of dismissing symptoms as anxiety or stress     Mandy's journey to diagnosis and recovery     The importance of self‑advocacy in healthcare     Raising awareness to help save more women's lives If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone you love and help spread the message about women's heart health. Learn more about the signs of heart disease in women and how to protect your heart at heartfoundation.org.au, and subscribe to Stories from the Heart so you never miss an episode. If you'd like to find out more about Mandy Hall, go to: realfoodhall.com.au *The Heart Foundation relies on peer-reviewed scientific research in the production of this podcast.

    21 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    Heart Failure to Heart Hero

    In this inspiring episode of Stories from the Heart, we sit down with Mildura teacher Graeme Tulloch, who turned a near-death experience into a mission to save lives. During a routine bike ride, Graeme experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. Thanks to the quick actions of community members who performed CPR, his life was saved. He shares the harrowing details of that day, the medical response that followed, and how the experience reshaped his outlook forever. We also talk to one of Graeme's rescuers, Seher Ozonal, whose early intervention not only helped to save Graeme's life but created a lifelong bond.  Out of this life-changing event came Hands on Heart Australia, an organisation Graeme founded to train and empower locals in CPR. His story is a reminder of the critical role everyday people can play in emergencies—and the emotional impact of surviving against the odds.

    30 min
  7. Washing Away Heart Disease in Barunga

    11/25/2025

    Washing Away Heart Disease in Barunga

    Rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease continue to disproportionately affect First Nations communities, but a simple idea is making a powerful difference: clean clothes. In this episode, we travel to Barunga Festival in the Northern Territory to learn how community-run remote laundries are reducing scabies, preventing new cases of RHD, and strengthening local pride. We hear from Aboriginal Investment Group CEO Liz Morgan-Brett, community laundry worker Darryl Miller, Heart Foundation leaders working on the ground, and researcher Dr Ailin Lepletier, who explains the science behind how skin infections can lead to serious heart damage. We also share news of a brand-new Remote Laundry opening in Borroloola — the latest step in a growing, community-led movement improving health outcomes across remote Australia. To learn more about rheumatic heart disease, the Remote Laundries Project, and how you can support this work, visit: https://www.remotelaundries.org.au/barunga/ https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/catalyst/remote-laundries/umbakumba-borroloola-launch https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/first-nations-heart-health/acute-rheumatic-fever-and-rhd

    29 min
  8. This is NOT a Heart Attack

    11/17/2025

    This is NOT a Heart Attack

    In this powerful episode of Stories from the Heart, we sit down with Sanjiv Kulkarni, a 48-year-old father and husband whose life took an unexpected turn. Despite being active and health-conscious, Sanjiv dismissed his heart attack symptoms as simple heartburn—until a doctor's diagnosis led to a shocking recommendation: a triple bypass. Sanjiv's story is a wake-up call for anyone who thinks heart disease only happens to "other people." With a family history of heart issues, his experience highlights how easily symptoms can be misunderstood—and how critical it is to listen to your body. We're also joined by Natalie Raffoul from the Heart Foundation. As Senior Manager for Healthcare Programs and Clinical Strategy, Nat sheds light on why misinterpreting heart attack symptoms is so common. Plus, she also tells us about the My Heart, My Life program—a free support initiative designed to help people living with heart disease (and their caregivers) lead healthier, happier lives. Tune in to hear: ·       Sanjiv's emotional journey from denial to diagnosis ·       Why heartburn and heart attack symptoms are often confused ·       Expert insights from Natalie Raffoul on heart health awareness  Subscribe, listen, and share—because these stories could save a life. My Heart, My Life: myheartmylife.org.au

    26 min
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About

Welcome to "Stories from the Heart," an engaging podcast series that delves into the personal experiences of the people navigating life with heart conditions, and of those researching solutions to heart disease's biggest challenges. The series aims to harness the story-telling power of people's experiences with heart disease, Australia's leading cause of death, to raise awareness that could save lives, and influence positive action on heart health. 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Heart Foundation
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Stories from the Heart

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