SaveHeart Stories

Dave Fritzsche
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  • HEALTH & FITNESS
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Real Life stories of lives saved, lost, and changed saved due to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)- the largest cause of natural death in the United States. The SaveHeart Stories podcast sheds light on how to drastically improve SCA survival rates by placing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) everywhere people live, work, and play, training more people in basic CPR & AED use, and promoting youth heart screenings to uncover potential heart defects in teenagers. Every year in the U.S., out-of-hospital SCA claims the lives of 356,000 people, including more than 23,000 teenagers. SCA strikes without warning and affects people from every walk of life, regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, or even health profile. While Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is essential to help blood flow to vital organs after an SCA event, the only real cure for SCA is an electrical shock from an AED, which the American Heart Association recommends should happen within 3 minutes. Sadly, today, less than 10% of SCA victims survive, largely because AEDs aren’t located close enough to where people are. There is an increasing number of stories in the media about how having an AED saved a precious life, or worse, how not having an AED nearby resulted in a tragic and unnecessary death. SaveHeart Stories should inspire us to do something about it now- individually, and together- so that our stories can change from sadness to celebration- and from tragedy to triumph. SaveHeart Stories is brought to you by your host, Dave Fritzsche, AED industry veteran and founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation. Proudly ‘Made in the USA,’ SaveHeart’s highly visible, alarmed, lighted, temperature-controlled and 24x7 monitored outdoor cabinets provide immediate visibility & access to lifesaving AEDs, Stop the Bleed Kits, Narcan, and other emergency supplies. They are ideal for parks, athletic fields & courts, trails, schools & universities, business districts, marinas, beaches, and any outdoor locations where people congregate. To learn more about how Outdoor AEDs can keep your community safer, call 312-953-6928 or email dave@saveheart.life.

Episodes

  1. Encouraging the Lifesaver in You: A Conversation with Stephanie Kornet

    12/29/2025

    Encouraging the Lifesaver in You: A Conversation with Stephanie Kornet

    No matter how hard it is, no matter how much it hurts, life goes on for those who must. Every family handles tragic loss differently. Some focus on the loss, and that is understandable. Others refuse to be silent and choose to speak up, to educate others, and to push for changes that could spare another family from walking the same road.  This episode of the SaveHeart Stories podcast focuses on a family that did the latter. Host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation talks with Stephanie Kornet of the 4Alec Foundation to talk about her son Alec, a student-athlete whose life was cut short after hockey practice at just 17 years old. The discussion explores the real-world work happening on the ground: AED placement in schools and community spaces, partnerships with organizations like Parent Heart Watch, and the impact of Ohio’s House Bill 47, requiring emergency action plans and AED access in places where kids play.  Stephanie also speaks candidly about awareness gaps, such as how often parents assume “this won’t happen to us,” and why education and confidence to act matter just as much as equipment. Takeaways -Sudden cardiac arrest often shows no warning signs, even in healthy student-athletes -CPR training and AED awareness empower everyday people to act, not panic -Ohio’s House Bill 47 is a start, but compliance and follow-through matter -Schools, rec centers, and youth sports facilities play a critical role in preparedness -Sharing personal stories helps break the “this won’t happen to us” mindset -Grassroots foundations rely heavily on partnerships and community support -Awareness without confidence still leaves gaps—education must lead to action -Small steps taken locally can ripple outward and save lives Chapters 00:16 Introduction: 01:02 About Alec Kornet 03:11 Mission of 4Alec Foundation 08:06 Focus on Awareness, CPR Training and AED Placements 10:27 Partnerships for Effectiveness 13:19 Learn more/Contact Stephanie 14:58 Meant To Be 16:38 Closing Thoughts Helpful Links:   Stephanie Kornet, 4Alec Foundation: www.4Alec.org Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

    19 min
  2. Attacking SCA from All Angles: A Conversation with Tormod Larsen

    12/08/2025

    Attacking SCA from All Angles: A Conversation with Tormod Larsen

    Important work often grows quietly, through steady commitment, difficult decisions, and people who choose to turn loss into something that protects others. Across schools, families, and entire communities, heart safety and prevention are no longer abstract ideas. They’re becoming real practices, built by people who decided that tragedy would not be the final word. In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation talks with Tormod Larsen, co-founder of the Kristoffer Larsen Big Heart Memorial Foundation in Geneva, Illinois. After losing their son Kristoffer to sudden cardiac arrest at just 22 years old, Tormod and his family chose to honor his life by building something that would help spare other families from the same loss. Through years of steady work, the Kristoffer Larsen Big Heart Memorial Foundation has screened more than 5,000 students and identified dozens of young people with hidden heart conditions. Their efforts extend beyond Illinois through scholarships, leadership development, and student-driven screening programs now reaching as far as Alabama.  This episode shows family at it’s finest, making the best outcome possible of the worst event imaginable. The difference being made is tangible, as one family’s tragedy continues to create protection, opportunity, and life-saving impact for thousands of others.  Takeaways -Tragedy can become a catalyst for long-term protection -Screenings and AED access must work together -Early detection changes outcomes -Awareness only matters if it leads to action -Scholarships carry impact beyond prevention -Youth leadership multiplies legacy -Technology supports survival, but people sustain the mission -Progress happens one school and one town at a time Chapters 00:17 Introduction: 01:52 About Christopher Larsen 04:06 Mission of Big Heart 08:16 Screening Impact 10:45 Scholarship Success 13:16 Screening Process 18:20 Advancements in the fight against SCA  26:50 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information Helpful Links:   Tormod Larsen at Kristoffer Larsen Big Heart Foundation: http://www.kristofferbigheart.org/ Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

    30 min
  3. Preventing Preventable Death: A Conversation with George Laman

    09/16/2025

    Preventing Preventable Death: A Conversation with George Laman

    Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. The grief is crushing, the questions are endless, and the road ahead feels impossible to walk. Yet even in the darkest places, some find a way to turn sorrow into strength. They discover a purpose that not only honors their loved one but also protects countless others from the same heartbreak. In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation talks with George Laman, a U.S. Navy veteran, and longtime fire chief, whose life was forever changed when his daughter Lauren died of sudden cardiac arrest during high school practice. George shares the heartbreaking details of that day, the shortcomings in emergency response, and the moment he vowed to honor Lauren’s life by making sure other families would be spared the same loss. You’ll hear how George’s determination led to the passage of “Lauren’s Law” in Illinois, mandating CPR and AED training for all high school students, and similar efforts in Florida With faith, gratitude, and relentless drive, he continues to push for broader awareness, outdoor AED access, and education that empowers families at home, at school, and in the community. His upcoming book, The Father’s Promise, captures this journey of love, loss, and the power to create lasting change. Takeaways -Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading natural cause of death, claiming hundreds of thousands each year. -Early CPR and AED use are essential. Every minute matters. -George Lehman’s daughter Lauren died at age 18 during high school practice. -Out of tragedy came “Lauren’s Law” in Illinois, requiring CPR/AED training for all high school students. -George later carried his advocacy to Florida, helping pass a stronger CPR/AED law there. -Persistence, partnerships, and faith fueled years of advocacy. -Teaching young people CPR/AED skills empowers an entire generation of lifesavers. -Outdoor AED access is a critical next frontier in saving lives. Chapters 00:18 Introduction/Meet George Laman 02:38 Lauren Laman’s Legacy 06:43 Lauren’s Law 10:51 Florida Legislation 18:19 A Father's Promise 20:25 Final Thoughts Helpful Links: Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

    24 min
  4. One Shot to Save a Life: A conversation with Matt Mangine

    05/19/2025

    One Shot to Save a Life: A conversation with Matt Mangine

    When our loved ones go off to school, or to work, or to practice and play, we always expect to see them again. But Sudden Cardiac Arrest is a silent killer, and it strikes at unexpected times in unexpected ways. When it happens in your famiy, it changes everything. That’s why access to AED’s is so important where people gather. Being aware and planning ahead can make a difference that saves lives.   In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation speaks with Matt Mangene, founder of the One-Shot Foundation, which was established to honor his son Matthew. Matthewt ragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest.  The conversation delves into Matthew's vibrant personality, the foundation's mission to raise awareness about cardiac arrest, and the importance of training and education in emergency response.  They discuss upcoming events, advocacy efforts for cardiac safety legislation, and the ongoing challenges in raising awareness about cardiac health. Matt shares his inspiration from survivors and emphasizes the need for continued efforts in this critical area. Takeaways -Matthew Mangne founded the One-Shot Foundation to honor his son who passed away following Sudden Cardiac Arrest. -The foundation focuses on AED training and awareness. -Education is key to preventing sudden cardiac arrest. -Community involvement is crucial for cardiac health initiatives. -Legislative advocacy is part of the foundation's mission. -Survivor stories inspire ongoing efforts in cardiac awareness. -The foundation hosts events to raise funds and awareness. -Seasonal training for emergency response is now mandated. -Collaboration with other organizations enhances impact. -The fight against sudden cardiac arrest continues with community support. Chapters 00:18 Introduction 01:44 Honoring Matthew Mangine Jr.  05:15 One Shot Foundation Mission 07:50 Practicing and Training on Display 08:56 “One Shot” Golf Outing and Birthday Bash 11:55 State Initiatives and Partnerships 15:18 Inspiration for Action and Impact Helpful Links:   Matt Mangine, Founder, The Matthew Mangine, Jr “One Shot” Foundation - https://www.oneshot.life/ Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation - https://saveheart.life/

    20 min
  5. In Business to Save Lives:  A Conversation with LifeSavers Inc’s Bob Stickel

    04/23/2025

    In Business to Save Lives:  A Conversation with LifeSavers Inc’s Bob Stickel

    When it’s your job to save lives, you’d better be good at it. You need heart and passion, yes. But you also need a good business sense, excellent people skills and the ability to get the job done. Because when a life needs saved, there’s more than just your business name on the line. In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation interviews Bob Stickel, the founder of Life Savers, Inc., discussing his journey from EMT to entrepreneur, the challenges faced in the AED industry, and the importance of community training in CPR and AED use.  They explore the paradox of increasing AED placements without a corresponding rise in survival rates, the need for more public access to AEDs, and the future of outdoor AED placements. Bob emphasizes the importance of training and community engagement to save lives and shares insights on the evolving landscape of emergency response. Takeaways -Bob Stickel founded Life Savers in 1992 to increase AED accessibility. -Only a small percentage of cardiac arrest victims receive immediate CPR. -Community training is essential for increasing survival rates. -Survival rates for cardiac arrest remain stagnant even though more AED’s are available. -There is a need for more AEDs in public spaces and homes. -Training programs in schools can empower others to respond to emergencies. -Consolidation in the AED industry may hinder local service and support. -Outdoor AED placements are a new frontier for saving lives. -Life Savers is committed to providing quality training and support for AED programs. Chapters 00:20 Introduction to Life Savers and Bob Stickel 01:30 Bob's Journey from EMT to Entrepreneur 04:38 Challenges in the AED Industry 07:01 The Paradox of AED Placement and Survival Rates 10:08 The Importance of Training and Community Engagement 11:51 Addressing Cardiac Arrest in Urban and Rural Areas 13:48 Positive Trends and Technology in AED Use 17:16 The Future of Outdoor AED Placement 19:54 How to Connect with Life Savers Helpful Links:   Bob Stickel, Lifesavers Inc.: https://www.lifesaversinc.com/ Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

    22 min
  6. Raising Awareness and Saving Lives: An Interview with Chip Georges

    02/19/2025

    Raising Awareness and Saving Lives: An Interview with Chip Georges

    AED's save lives, it's a proven fact. But when they aren't available, or are within reach behind locked doors or inside after hours, they can't do their jobs. Awareness of the need for external AED's and the availability of services to install them is crucial. We're talking about it here, on the SaveHeart Stories podcast. In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation discusses the critical issue of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) with Chip Georges, President of Marelly AED's and Safety. They explore the alarming statistics surrounding SCA, the importance of AEDs, and the mission of Marelly Safety in providing life-saving equipment and training. The conversation delves into the origins of Marelly Safety, the challenges faced in raising awareness about AEDs, and the future of AED technology and accessibility. Chip shares success stories and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in saving lives. Takeaways -SCA claims almost 400,000 lives annually in the U.S. -The survival rate for SCA remains around 10%. -Marelly Safety was founded in 2002 by Chip's father. -The company started as an AED leasing business. -Marelly focuses on being an AED program provider, not just a seller. -Awareness of AED locations is crucial for saving lives. -Outdoor AED cabinets can significantly increase visibility. -Education about AEDs is essential for effective use. -Technological advancements in AEDs are on the horizon. -Community involvement is key to improving survival rates. Chapters 00:17 Introduction to The SaveHeart Stories Podcast 03:00 The Origins and Growth of Marelly AED's and Safety 09:39 Challenges in AED Awareness and Education 16:30 Future Trends in AED Technology and Accessibility 22:05 Success Stories and Impact of AEDs 25:28 Calls to Action Helpful Links: Chip Gorges at Marelly AED's and Safety: https://www.marelly.com/ Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

    29 min
  7. "The First Sign of Trouble was Death”:  An Interview with MCORE Foundation’s Lisa Tennenbaum

    02/07/2025

    "The First Sign of Trouble was Death”:  An Interview with MCORE Foundation’s Lisa Tennenbaum

    Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) claims almost 400,000 lives a year, and is the number one natural cause of death in this country. Heart screening can detect unknown abnormalities in youth, and can save lives when they do. But screenings don't happen as much as they should. The MCORE Foundation is working to change that. In this episode of the Save Heart Stories podcast, host Dave Fritzsche, Founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation, speaks with Lisa Tennenbaum, the executive director and CEO of the MCORE Foundation. They discuss the alarming statistics surrounding sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the evolution of MCORE Foundation, and the unique offerings it provides in heart health screening. The conversation highlights personal stories, the barriers faced in raising awareness, and the importance of collaboration within the heart health community. This is an important call to action for increased awareness and proactive measures in heart health. Takeaways -SCA claims almost 400,000 lives a year in the U.S. -MCORE Foundation focuses on youth heart screenings and education. -National Youth Heart Screening Day aims to raise awareness. -Heart screenings can detect unknown abnormalities in youth. -Collaboration among organizations is essential for impact. -Parents should prioritize cardiac evaluations for their children. -MCORE Foundation offers high-quality screenings at low costs. -Changing mindsets about heart health is crucial for prevention. -Knowledge gained from screenings empowers families. -Community awareness can lead to better heart health outcomes. Chapters 00:21 Introduction to Save Heart Stories and SCA Awareness 02:22 National Youth Heart Screening Day and MCORE Foundation's Role 05:36 The Evolution of MCORE Foundation and Its Unique Offerings 10:28 Personal Stories and the Importance of Heart Screenings 13:31 Overcoming Barriers in Heart Screening Awareness 18:35 Collaboration and Partnerships in the Heart Health Community 25:34 Changing Mindsets Around Heart Health and Screening 29:48 Conclusion and Call to Action for Heart Health Awareness Helpful Links: Lisa Tennenbaum, MCORE Foundation: https://www.mcorefoundation.org/ Dave Fritzsche, SaveHeart by Heart Nation: https://saveheart.life/ ---------- SaveHeart is an American Company offering Lifesaving AED Access, Awareness & Monitoring Technology for All. We work with leading AED manufacturers, distributors, not-for-profit organizations, and technology providers to prepare & protect people and organizations everywhere from SCA emergencies. Proudly ‘Made in the USA,’ SaveHeart’s highly visible, alarmed, lighted, temperature controlled and 24x7 monitored AED cabinets provide immediate visibility & access to lifesaving AEDs, Stop the Bleed Kits, Narcan and other emergency supplies, and are ideal for ideal for athletic fields, parks, trails, schools & universities, marinas, business districts - or any locations where people congregate.

    33 min
  8. “Mom am I going to die?”:  An Interview with Jenny Young

    12/20/2024

    “Mom am I going to die?”:  An Interview with Jenny Young

    In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by Heart Nation speaks with Jenny Young, founder of She Did It Videography, about her journey to advocate for the installation of AEDs (automated external defibrillators) in her community. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness around sudden cardiac arrest, the challenges faced in fundraising and community engagement, and the critical role of education and training in saving lives. Jenny shares her personal motivation stemming from a moment with her son where he had seen a death happen on live TV and questioned his own safety, and discusses the collaborative efforts with local leaders to ensure safety at sports fields. The episode emphasizes the power of community action and the impact of local initiatives in addressing health emergencies. Takeaways -Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the U.S. -Personal experiences can drive community advocacy. -Fundraising requires transparency and consistent communication. -Community leaders play a crucial role in health initiatives. -Education on AEDs and CPR is vital for safety. -Collaboration with local businesses can enhance fundraising efforts. -Persistent efforts can lead to successful outcomes. -Social media is a powerful tool for community engagement. -Connecting people can amplify advocacy efforts. -Local initiatives can save lives and improve community health. Helpful Links: She Did It Videography: https://www.shediditvideo.com/ SaveHeart by Heart Nation: https://saveheart.life/

    29 min
  9. Unsung Community Heroes: An interview with Kevin Knussman

    11/21/2024

    Unsung Community Heroes: An interview with Kevin Knussman

    In this episode of SaveHeart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by Heart Nation, speaks with Kevin Knussman, a veteran in emergency medical services and founder of Advocates for Early Defibrillation. They discuss the critical issue of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the importance of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and the collaborative efforts in Talbot County, Maryland, to improve community response to cardiac emergencies. Kevin shares his journey in pioneering advanced life support programs, the role of community partnerships, and innovative initiatives in Florida's Villages aimed at increasing AED accessibility and public awareness. The conversation emphasizes the need for education, advocacy, and the importance of timely CPR and defibrillation in saving lives. Takeaways -Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the US. -AEDs can significantly increase survival rates if used within the first five minutes. -Community collaboration is essential for effective emergency response. -Education and advocacy are key to increasing AED accessibility. -Innovative programs can enhance community response to cardiac emergencies. -CPR is critical in buying time for AED intervention. -Public awareness of AED locations can save lives. -The chemistry of the body deteriorates rapidly during cardiac arrest. -Engaging local organizations can strengthen emergency medical services. -Advocates for Early Defibrillation aims to improve access to life-saving technology. Chapters 00:19 Introduction to Sudden Cardiac Arrest 03:22 Kevin Knussman's Journey in Emergency Medical Services 06:13 Pioneering Advanced Life Support in Talbot County 09:23 Community Collaboration and Resource Sharing 12:02 The Role of AEDs in Saving Lives 18:34 Advocacy and Education for Early Defibrillation 22:25 Addressing Gaps in CPR and AED Accessibility 27:34 Conclusion and Call to Action Helpful Links: SaveHeart by Heart Nation: https://www.saveheart.life/ Advocates for Early Defibrillation: https://www.facebook.com/Advocates.4.AEDs Talbot County Paramedic Foundation: https://www.site.talbotparamedic.org/

    36 min
  10. A Survivors Journey: An Interview with Dale Wakasugi

    10/03/2024

    A Survivors Journey: An Interview with Dale Wakasugi

    Welcome to the SaveHeart Stories podcast. This is our first episode of many to come, featuring real life stories of lives changed by Sudden Cardiac Arrest and the availability of life saving AED devices. In our first pilot episode of SaveHeart Stories, host David Fritzsche, owner of SaveHeart by Save Nation speaks with Dale Wakasugi, a two-time sudden cardiac arrest survivor and founder of MyAED and CPR Solutions. They discuss the critical importance of AEDs and CPR training in saving lives during cardiac emergencies. Dale shares his personal experiences with cardiac arrest, the role of bystanders and AEDs in his survival, and his mission to increase awareness and accessibility of AEDs in public spaces. The conversation emphasizes the need for education on recognizing cardiac arrest and the importance of immediate action in emergencies. Takeaways -Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in America. -Dale Wakasugi survived two cardiac arrests, inspiring his mission. -AEDs can significantly increase survival rates during cardiac arrest. -Immediate CPR and AED use are critical for survival. -Awareness of AEDs has increased due to high-profile cases. -Training in CPR is essential and accessible to everyone. -Dale's commitment is to place AEDs in public spaces. -Outdoor AEDs are becoming increasingly important for community safety. -Survival rates can improve with timely intervention and training. -Education on the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest is crucial. To learn more about how Outdoor AEDs can keep your community safer, call 312-953-6928 or email dave@saveheart.life. Proudly ‘Made in the USA,’ SaveHeart’s highly visible, alarmed, lighted, temperature controlled and 24x7 monitored outdoor cabinets provide immediate visibility & access to lifesaving AEDs, Stop the Bleed Kits, Narcan and other emergency supplies. They are ideal for parks, athletic fields, trails, schools & universities, marinas, business districts, and any outdoor locations where people congregate.

    29 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Real Life stories of lives saved, lost, and changed saved due to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)- the largest cause of natural death in the United States. The SaveHeart Stories podcast sheds light on how to drastically improve SCA survival rates by placing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) everywhere people live, work, and play, training more people in basic CPR & AED use, and promoting youth heart screenings to uncover potential heart defects in teenagers. Every year in the U.S., out-of-hospital SCA claims the lives of 356,000 people, including more than 23,000 teenagers. SCA strikes without warning and affects people from every walk of life, regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, or even health profile. While Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is essential to help blood flow to vital organs after an SCA event, the only real cure for SCA is an electrical shock from an AED, which the American Heart Association recommends should happen within 3 minutes. Sadly, today, less than 10% of SCA victims survive, largely because AEDs aren’t located close enough to where people are. There is an increasing number of stories in the media about how having an AED saved a precious life, or worse, how not having an AED nearby resulted in a tragic and unnecessary death. SaveHeart Stories should inspire us to do something about it now- individually, and together- so that our stories can change from sadness to celebration- and from tragedy to triumph. SaveHeart Stories is brought to you by your host, Dave Fritzsche, AED industry veteran and founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation. Proudly ‘Made in the USA,’ SaveHeart’s highly visible, alarmed, lighted, temperature-controlled and 24x7 monitored outdoor cabinets provide immediate visibility & access to lifesaving AEDs, Stop the Bleed Kits, Narcan, and other emergency supplies. They are ideal for parks, athletic fields & courts, trails, schools & universities, business districts, marinas, beaches, and any outdoor locations where people congregate. To learn more about how Outdoor AEDs can keep your community safer, call 312-953-6928 or email dave@saveheart.life.

Information

  • Creator
    Dave Fritzsche
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Dave Fritzsche
  • Show Website
    SaveHeart Stories