The Unspoken

Chris Klug Foundation

The aim is to is to discuss everything not discussed when it comes to donation and transplantation.  The series focuses on different topics, bringing in members from various areas of the donation and transplantation community to discuss their experiences, and help support and advise others in similar positions. The series hopes to raise awareness, encourage individuals to become organ, eye, and tissue donors ,and provide support for those going through the transplant process. 

  1. The Unspoken | Ep 14 | A Mile High Hope, Denver 2026

    APR 15

    The Unspoken | Ep 14 | A Mile High Hope, Denver 2026

    Most people don’t realize that the upcoming 2026 Transplant Games in Denver will be the largest celebration of life in the world — and you can be part of it. When Mark McIntosh shares his journey from battling a rare blood cancer to receiving a life-saving kidney transplant, he reveals the extraordinary power of organ donation and the life-changing impact of community support. This episode dives deep into the incredible story of resilience, hope, and giving back. Mark shares how a simple act — sharing your spare — saved his life and how the Transplant Games foster an inspiring environment where thousands come together to celebrate life, connect across communities, and promote organ donation awareness. He highlights the importance of trusting healthcare, Colorado’s pioneering transplant history, and the need to increase awareness among communities of color.  Support the show

    31 min

  2. FEB 20

    The Unspoken | Ep 13 | Duality of Gratitude & Grief P2

    Welcome to Part 2 of the Duality of Gratitude & Grief. Anna is joined by Denzel, Mari, Monique, and Denise, the ED of The Heartfelt Help Foundation.  This conversation delves into the complex emotional and financial challenges faced by families navigating the heart transplant journey. Through personal stories, the speakers share their experiences of trauma, guilt, and resilience, highlighting the ongoing struggles that persist long after the transplant. The discussion emphasizes the duality of gratitude and grief, as families learn to cope with the realities of living with chronic health issues while supporting their loved ones. Support the show

    38 min
  3. The Unspoken | Ep 12 | Duality of Gratitude and Grief

    JAN 9

    The Unspoken | Ep 12 | Duality of Gratitude and Grief

    We are kicking off season 2 of The Unspoken with Denise Redeker and three of her Pediatric Heart Transplant Patient Families. We are so thankful to Denzel, Mari, and Monique for being open and honest about their family's journey through and after a heart transplant.  This conversation delves into the complex emotional and financial challenges faced by families navigating the heart transplant journey. Through personal stories, the speakers share their experiences of trauma, guilt, and resilience, highlighting the ongoing struggles that persist long after the transplant. The discussion emphasizes the duality of gratitude and grief, as families learn to cope with the realities of living with chronic health issues while supporting their loved ones. Support the show

    46 min
  4. The Unspoken | Ep 11 | The Gift of Sight

    11/21/2025

    The Unspoken | Ep 11 | The Gift of Sight

    This episode explores the profound impact of eye donation, featuring heartfelt stories from donor families and insights from experts in the field. Anna is joined by donor family Leslie & Brad Vickers, as well as Staci from the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of eye donation compared to other organ donations, emphasizing the importance of early discussions about donation decisions. The episode also delves into the emotional journey of donor families and the life-changing effects on recipients. Support the show

    43 min
  5. The Unspoken | Ep 10 | From the Brink to the Podium

    11/12/2025

    The Unspoken | Ep 10 | From the Brink to the Podium

    Join host Anna Morgan-Palardy as she sits down with CKF Executive Director Jessi Rochel and Chris Klug, founder of the Chris Klug Foundation, to explore his incredible journey from receiving a life-saving liver transplant to winning an Olympic bronze medal. In this episode, Chris shares his personal story of resilience, the mission of his foundation, and the impact of organ donation. Discover how Chris's passion for board sports and his commitment to giving back have inspired countless others. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about second chances and the power of community. #LiveLifeGiveLife Support the show

    32 min
  6. The Unspoken | Ep 9 | Revolutionizing Transplants

    10/27/2025

    The Unspoken | Ep 9 | Revolutionizing Transplants

    🎙In this episode of "The Unspoken," host Anna Morgan-Palardy dives into the transformative world of organ pumps with Dr. James Trotter from Intermountain Health. 🎙 ⚡️Discover how this groundbreaking technology is revolutionizing the field of organ transplantation, increasing the number of successful transplants, and reducing wait times for patients. Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of implementing organ pumps nationwide and the profound impact they have on both donors and recipients. Tune in to learn how these innovations are paving the way for a brighter future in transplant medicine.⚡️ Support the show

    41 min
  7. The Unspoken | Ep 8 | Heart of the Rockies - Team Rocky Mountain

    08/06/2025

    The Unspoken | Ep 8 | Heart of the Rockies - Team Rocky Mountain

    In this conversation, Anna Morgan-Palardy speaks with Michael Wells, team captain of Team Rocky Mountain, about the upcoming Transplant Games of America. They discuss the significance of the games, the emotional impact on participants, and the goals for Team Rocky Mountain. Michael shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of community engagement, and highlights inclusivity to Team Rocky Mountain. The conversation highlights the positive atmosphere of the games and encourages potential participants to get involved. Support the show

    32 min
  8. The Unspoken | Ep 7 | Donation & Legislation

    06/25/2025

    The Unspoken | Ep 7 | Donation & Legislation

    In this episode of the Unspoken podcast, Anna Morgan-Palardy interviews Elaine Perlman, the executive director of Waitlist Zero, about the urgent need for kidney donations and the legislative efforts to pass the End Kidney Deaths Act.  Elaine shares her personal journey into the world of organ donation, the challenges faced by living donors, and the potential impact of the proposed legislation, which aims to provide tax credits to altruistic kidney donors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support and advocacy in addressing the kidney crisis in America. Support the show

    26 min
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About

The aim is to is to discuss everything not discussed when it comes to donation and transplantation.  The series focuses on different topics, bringing in members from various areas of the donation and transplantation community to discuss their experiences, and help support and advise others in similar positions. The series hopes to raise awareness, encourage individuals to become organ, eye, and tissue donors ,and provide support for those going through the transplant process. 

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Klug Foundation
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Unspoken
  • Show Website
    The Unspoken

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