Shows
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDWelcome to Candid Hearts!Welcome to Candid Hearts: Conversations in CHD. We’re Meagan and Amy, and we’re so glad you’re here.This podcast is a space for real, honest conversations about congenital heart disease. We’ll be sharing stories not only from our own journeys, but also from other CHD patients and families who know this life firsthand. Together, we’ll talk about all aspects of CHD—the good, the hard, and everything in between.We’ll also bring you a special segment called The Murmur Mill, where we debunk common myths and rumo...
2026-02-0243 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAmanda Braun's Story- Tricuspid AtresiaToday I’m joined by Amanda as she shares her CHD journey. While childhood brought relatively few issues, things changed in her teenage years, leading to surgery and ongoing complications into adulthood. Through it all, Amanda’s positivity and outlook on life shine. In this episode, she opens up about her challenges, her resilience, and her hopes for the future—reminding us that CHD doesn’t have to hold us back.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart War...
2025-12-2234 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDFrom Pediatric to Adult Care: Lessons We Wish We KnewToday I’m joined by Jul, Aaron, and Scott for a conversation about transitioning from pediatric to adult care. When you’re born with CHD, so much happens before you’re even old enough to understand it. In this episode, we share the things we wish we had known during that transition—offering insight, lessons, and hope to help others navigate their own path into adult care.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram: ...
2025-12-0851 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDSharing the Mic: My Conversation with Patrick MasonToday I’m joined by Patrick Mason for a special episode. Since we both host podcasts, we thought it would be fun to do a dual interview and share our stories together. Patrick opens up about his own journey—what led him into podcasting, his experience as a dad to a child with HLHS, and the hopes he carries for the future.https://micahmasonfoundation.org/https://micahmasonfoundation.org/sharingthehope/sharing-the-hope/If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart...
2025-11-241h 05
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDThe Struggle and the Strength: CHD and Staying ActiveGrowing up with CHD, there was no manual on what we could or couldn’t do—it was often trial by fire. Our parents did the best they could with the information they had, but as we step into adulthood, it’s on us to figure out how to start—or keep up—an active lifestyle. For some, that comes naturally; for others, it’s a lifelong struggle. What we all share, though, is an understanding of how important movement is for our health and well-being. Join us today as we talk openly about our health journeys and the role physica...
2025-11-1055 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAiden Renda's Story- From CHD to Heart TransplantToday I’m joined by Aiden, who shares his powerful CHD and transplant journey. His path toward transplant began when he was just 16, and at 18, he received his new heart. Now, nine years later, Aiden reflects on the reality that while his heart is strong, his body is facing new challenges. Join us as he opens up about his experiences, what he’s learning along the way, and how he continues moving forward.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries...
2025-10-2751 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAaron Knutson is back! Talking about his disability journeyAaron is back! Today, he opens up about his disability journey—what led him to the decision to step away from his job and begin the Social Security process. He shares the barriers he faced along the way and highlights the key things he believes others should consider when navigating this path. After a long road, he finally receives that official stamp of approval.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram: amyerhart_hlhs
2025-10-1328 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDBekah Chovanec's Story- HRHS/ Pulmonary AtresiaToday, Bekah opens up about her journey of finding her footing as an adult with CHD. Learning to advocate for ourselves isn’t always easy—it takes time, growth, and confidence. For Bekah, certain life experiences have sparked a stronger drive to speak up for her needs. Now, she’s drawing from those moments and the lessons they’ve taught her to make positive changes in both her health and the way she communicates with her care team.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart Cunningham...
2025-09-291h 08
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDMelanie Letzer's Story- Heart mom of 2 children with CHDTo say Melanie’s story is unique would be an understatement. While having one child with CHD is already rare—about 1 in 100 births—Melanie is navigating life with two children living with congenital heart disease. The challenges are real, but she’s meeting them head-on with strength and grace.For Melanie, the key has been finding balance—giving her oldest the space to live his life with guidance, while encouraging both of her children to make their own choices and discover who they are within the context of CHD. Her priority has always been to raise confident, self-aware...
2025-09-1551 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDThirza de Kok's Story- HRHSToday, Thirza shares her powerful story of living with CHD. Despite the challenges she’s faced, it’s clear she’s thriving. I especially love how she reflects on the impact of being part of a CHD group in her younger years—how those connections turned into lasting relationships. Inspired by that experience, she’s now continuing the mission for adults. Tune in to hear her incredible journey.Below is her Website and Facebook page for her adult group. Go check it out!https://aangeborenhartafwijking.nl/hartcor/https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BTqvUTUA1/
2025-09-0151 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDKatherine Madigan's Story- Tricuspid AtresiaKatherine was born in 1982, and from the very beginning, her parents were filled with hope for her future. She underwent her first surgery within months of birth and received the Fontan procedure at age nine. From that point through much of her adult life, her health remained stable. However, in her 30s, she began experiencing arrhythmias—an unexpected turn that significantly altered the course of her life. Join me as Katherine opens up about her journey, sharing the emotional impact and grieving process that has come with navigating these changes in her adult years.If you would li...
2025-08-1850 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDTessa Go's Story- HRHS/WPWToday, Tessa shares her journey through pregnancy, life as a military spouse, and the transition of care in managing her CHD. She reflects on her experiences with four pregnancies, navigating the challenges of frequent relocations as part of a military family. Additionally, she opens up about her transition from pediatric to adult cardiology, emphasizing the importance of understanding your CHD early to prepare for independent adulthood.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram: amye...
2025-08-0449 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDEllie Garrington's Story- Tricuspid AtresiaEllie was born with CHD, facing numerous challenges along the way. However, the most significant complication she endured was a stroke. Looking back, she recalls the frustrating journey of seeking help for her worsening symptoms—only to be told it was all in her head and that everything was fine. Doubting herself, she trusted the doctors' reassurances and pushed through, ignoring the warning signs. Unfortunately, this dismissal ultimately led to a stroke, forever changing her life and outlook on advocating for herself and other.If you would like to be on the show please re...
2025-07-2147 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDFrom Awareness to Action: Join the HeartWorks MovementHeartworks is a nonprofit organization founded in June202 to build on the groundbreaking work started by Tod and Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) at Mayo Clinic in 2010.Today, Kelly and I had a great conversation about a clinical trial through Heartworks that involves a skin punch biopsy to create cardiac stem cells using reprogrammed cell technology. We shared our personal experiences and discussed how we feel about the innovative work Heartworks is doing for the CHD community.Check out all the links!https://heartworksinc.org/https...
2025-07-1453 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDChantelle Johnson's Story- Tetrology of FallotAt 55, Chantelle has seen her fair share of changes in the medical field. Being born in the 70's she's been extremely fortunate to have little intervention in her life along that way. However, she now faces the next phase of CHD and the possibility of transplant. She states it wonderfully; even though we are born with CHD, doesn't mean we need to place our life on hold, it's a reason for us to live. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart...
2025-07-0732 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAmber West's Story- Tricuspid Atresia/ VSD***Mental Illness***Amber's CHD journey doesn't come without fight. At a young age not only did she struggled with CHD, but mental illness reared its ugly head in her life. She just so happened to get an email and she took charge of her mental health, because she knew it was time. Please join me as she shares her what has helped her push trough the feels of being a burden and how she feels about life today. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Er...
2025-06-231h 03
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAnnie Ulchak's Story- HLHSAnnie's CHD journey starts in Lima, Peru. Being born with CHD and not having all the necessary resources it was essential she make it to the states to have life saving surgery. After being adopted by a wonderful family, she was able to have the interventions needed to thrive today. Annie has had some health challenges along the way, but at 46 she is living a healthy life and continues to take care of herself so she is able to do that in years to come. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! F...
2025-06-091h 20
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDLaura Valentine's Story- CHD/Heart Liver TransplantLaura's story starts like most of ours. Born with CHD and living most of her life in the CHD world. As an adult, her health deteriorated and she was faced with transplant. Her journey is truly unique. She has so many serendipitous moments throughout her transplant, that she is exactly where she needs to be and continues to thrive 8 months post transplant.If you are finding yourself in the process of transplant and need someone to reach out to, Laura is more than happy to talk with others about her experience and be a mentor for the comm...
2025-05-261h 02
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDJason Crutchley' Story- CHD/TransplantJason's life is full of passion and drive. Growing up with CHD and finding out it was his time to have a transplant, came a a complete surprise, but he evaluated his life and came to terms that this was the best option for him. Join me as he takes us through his CHD/Transplant journey. https://www.facebook.com/jasonstransplantjourneyIf you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram: amyerhart_hlhs
2025-05-121h 24
Heart to Heart with AnnaPutting Around for a Purpose: Golf, Heart Warriors, and Small-Town MagicSend us a textA broken wrist serves as an unexpected metaphor for the heart warrior's journey in this illuminating conversation with fundraiser and podcaster Amy Earhart. When Anna's recent accident left her with a titanium plate and a new perspective on recovery, it highlighted the resilience that characterizes the CHD community—adapting when our bodies say "enough" and finding creative ways forward.Amy Erhart brings this resilience to life through her remarkable story. Born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome in 1983, she's channeled her experience into creating meaningful change. Her "Putt Around Kalida" fundraiser transforms he...
2025-05-1137 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDNeal Darby's Story- HRHSNeal's story hit me different. We frequently concentrate on the present moment, often overlooking how our youthful experiences and choices can significantly influence our future well-being. He hit on a hard truth: the health-related decisions we make in our younger years can greatly impact our health outcomes later in life. Neal experienced this firsthand when he received an unexpected diagnosis. Since then, he has triumphed over that challenge and is now prioritizing his health while looking ahead with optimism.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFa...
2025-04-2842 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDDaniel Thomas's Story- HLHSToday's episode I talk with Daniel. This is so different than most episodes in the fact that he focus' on his adventures in life. His HLHS hasn't slowed him down and while he admits he is living an ideal life, he knows things are coming in the future, but he focuses on the now! If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram: amyerhart_hlhs
2025-04-1435 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDKelly DiMaggio's Story- HLHS, DGTA mitral atresia, and an ASD and VSDKelly joins me to today and speak about her CHD journey. What I love about talking with Kelly is that she has such an appreciation for life and moves through her story with love and understanding. She recounts how she and her husband get an unexpected diagnosis within their family, that takes 1 in 100 to a new meaning along with many other stories within her 36 years of life! If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram: amyerhart_hlhs
2025-03-311h 06
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDJoJo Jacob's Story- HLHSToday I have the pleasure of speaking with Jojo. She take us through her journey of wanting cosmetic surgery, but instead got way more than she bargained for. After moving to a new state her plan to live normally were turned upside down when she saw a new cardiologist. She now is living her life in heart failure and the way she take it is stride goes to show even though our circumstances aren't amazing, we can still have a positive outlook.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhar...
2025-03-171h 07
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAaron Knutson's Story- Double Inlet VentricleToday Aaron shares his story of living the life. He decided to take his passion of playing music and make it his career in his younger years. However, that doesn't mean CHD didn't creep up on him and have other plans. Aaron takes us through his journey of navigating his life as a musician while still dealing with CHD. After years of living the dream is slowed things down and talks a little able being able to partially retire and how he feels about that today.If you would like to be on the show please reach out...
2025-03-031h 21
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDChastity Rushing's Story- Heart TransplantToday, Chastity tells us about her heart transplant journey. Never meeting Chastity and not knowing her story I'm so honored she shared it with us! She takes us through the initial moments of feeling that deep down something wasn't right, to continuing to push herself to live her life as her heart is failing her all the way through her transplant. How rapidly her health started to deteriorate and what it looked like in the months leading up to her transplant. She also brings so much hope to the future of CHD knowing heart transplants are potentially part of our...
2025-02-171h 14
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDElise George's Story- Tricuspid AtresiaI sit down with Elise today as she shares her heart journey starting with her mom finding out in utero. In her 20's her family makes the decision to move to New Mexico and due to altitude it doesn't go as planned and has to move back to her home state of Arizona. Elise also shares her struggles with her both heart and mental health and how it is important to address your trauma.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram: amyerhart_hlhs
2025-02-0359 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDRemy Mink's Story- HRHSToday Remy walks us through her heart journey, recounting her early years and the stuggles after her fontan surgery. As she struggled with issues from her fontan, her provider turns her to social media platforms to engage with the community. Which is how she came upon being on the Podcast. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook: Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram: amyerhart_hlhs
2025-01-2047 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAndrew's Story- HLHSToday, Andrew tells his story of being born with HLHS. His parents did not know about his heart defect prior to being born and his diagnosis came days after being home. Given his experience in middle school Andrew had to find a balance between being defined by his heart defect and being proud of it. I think Andrew does a fantastic job telling his story and how he has found the balance over come the shame he used to feel and how the CHD community has helped him. If you would like to be on the show...
2024-12-0258 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDLet's Talk about St. Louis! Single Ventricle Day!Today I am talking with 3 fellow CHDers who went to St. Louis in October 2024. The conference is hosted by Fontan Outcome Network and NPC-QIC; CHD physicians, patients and their families come to learn about heart and liver health and how to extend the life of single ventricle patients. For patients it is a time to grow friendships and talk about our past present and future and to hear others heart stories! Ollie's Branch- Mental Health https://theohhf.org/ollies-branch/Sister's by Heart- Where you can apply for assistance to attend a conference.https://www...
2024-11-181h 00
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAnna Jaworski- Heart mom, advocate, author, podcaster and so much moreThis is such an amazing story! Anna's journey started when she became a heart mom. She through devoting her time to learning about her child's heart condition of hypolastic left heart syndrome, her purpose became so much more! Sit back and listen to hear journey as she take you from her first step of research and questioning her child's care all they way to where she is today with 400+ episodes on her own podcast Heart to Heart with Anna.Click the link below to see all the wonderful things she is doing!https://linktr.ee/annajaworski
2024-11-041h 51
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDBoston's Story- HRHSImagine moving to another part of the state for our child. That is what Tiffany did, with the help of her husband, family and friends. Tiffany, so beautifully tells the story of her son Boston, having a missed diagnosis on an ultrasound and working through the struggles when her child was born. I think this is as much a story of how much a mother/caregiver will sacrifice for their child and the inner strength it takes as well as having a solid foundation behind you as well as Boston's journey. Due to the lack a resources Tiff...
2024-10-071h 03
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDHannah's Story- Tricuspid Atrisia- ASD/VSDToday Hannah shares her CHD story. Not only does she have a heart defect, but she has had to deal with other health issues along the way, that seemingly pose a greater risk to her currently. Aside from this, Hannah has found her purpose in raising her daughter Hazel and raising awareness for CHD.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:Instragram: amyerhart_hlhsFacebook: Amy Erhart Cunningham
2024-09-231h 14
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAshley's Story- HRHSHello! Today I get to speak with Ashley as she share's her journey with HRHS. She has had to deal with more than just a heart defect in her life. In adulthood she developed an unexpected clotting disorder and shares the story of how she managed to get through this challenge all while being away from home. Her struggles did stop her as she is thriving today! If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:Instragram: amy.l.erhartFacebook: Amy Erh...
2024-08-261h 21
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDMichelle- CHD Focus TrainerMichelle started out at Nationwide Children's in exercise physiology working in the stress test lab. After taking in all the information from mentors, she decided she wanted to focus on the whole person and one with CHD. She is making moves in the community by helping single ventricle patients learn how to move their body in a way that works for them. You can find her on instagram spreading awareness for our physical movement! Instagram: chdmoversIf you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:
2024-08-1242 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDDr. Terry Davis- Pediatric Heart SurgeonDr. Davis started his career in 1960. In this podcast you will hear how and why he chose to become a pediatric surgeon and what he has done throughout his incredible career. When asked how many surgeries he has completed he stated around 5000! His journey of learning new and uncharted territory is just as intriguing as ours. He has seen, as well as been a part of the strides the medical field has made throughout the decades. I hope you enjoy listening to his story. Dr. Davis mentions short stories he has written and they can be found below...
2024-07-2956 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAmy's Story- ASDAmy is a Nurse Coach and Reiki Master Teacher. Her initial desire to be a nurse came from her own heart defect and wanting to give back. After having been a bedside nurse for 15+ years, she decided to hang up that hat and move to a more holistic approach. She is now helping young children through their healing journey's all while working on her own trauma and finding peace. You can find Amy @ linktr.ee/nursecoachamywww.facebook.com/amy.luckmanIf you or someone you know would like to b...
2024-07-1551 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDLerner's Story: Complete A/V Canal DefectToday I interview Lerner's mom and dad (Keith and Ann Rea). I have know them for most of my life to to get to interview them was a pleasure. Their story doesn't start with the initial diagnosis of Lerner's heart defect, but it does end with Lerner thriving and growing into a confident and happy girl!I also love that both parents give glowing reviews to the Help Me Grow program, where Lerner continues to develop her skills as she grows. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you...
2024-07-0136 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDDerrick's Story- HLHSToday Derrick tells us about his journey with CHD. What I love most about this interview is that he brings up a topic of how we it is easy a child to be embarrassed of our body and how that effects us throughout life. He also says now that he is 20 he views his heart defect different and want to help others.Please see his YouTube Channel at:https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=derrick+HLHSIf you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hi...
2024-06-1725 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAndrea's Story-Double Outlet Right VentricleToday we get to hear Andrea's story. I just love the outlook Andrea has on life and that we have one life to live, so we need to live it an be appreciative of it. While we haven't known each other long, I gravitate towards her personality. Please join me as we dive into her story.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:Instragram: amy.l.erhartFacebook: Amy Erhart Cunningham
2024-06-0340 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDTexas's Story- greater arteries, tricuspid atresia, pulmonary atresia, ASD/VSD, dexa cardia (HRHS)Today's Texas tells us his story about living with CHD. There are so many things about this episode that I enjoy, but I particularly love that we touch on falling out of care when we turn 18. It is so important for us to be able to live life to the fullest and in most cases because 'nothing is wrong' we feel we don't need to see a cardiologist anymore, but that simply isn't true. I hope you enjoy listening to his story today.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you...
2024-05-2050 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDMonicka's Story- Dextro- Transposition of the Great ArteriesMonika and I have never met, but when after she found out about the podcast, she reached out to share her story. Today she touches on how she find happiness when life get a little rough along with how she has dealt with her mental health.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:Instragram: amy.l.erhartFacebook: Amy Erhart Cunningham
2024-05-0630 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDAbby's Story- Dextro-Cardio; Pulmonary Stenosis; HRHS; ASD/VSDThe topic of pregnancy is so difficult to talk about as everyone has their own thoughts and feelings. But Today Abby joins be to share her story. Abby reached out to me after finding out about the podcast and wanted to specifically touch on pregnancy and her journey. Join us as she take us through the moment she was told she was unable to have children and what transpired in her life after she found out the news at a young age.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can...
2024-04-0843 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDJournaling with Jennifer Troester- BonusWe have a bonus episode for you! Today we talk about journaling. Big takeaways in this one! Journaling can be done anytime and anywhere, there are no right or wrong ways to journal and you can journal about anything! There are no rules when it comes to getting your thoughts and feelings on paper! Jennifer does a great job of explaining that. Head on over to one of her many platforms for ideas to inspire your journaling journey!You can find her in the following locations: Let’s connect!Come journal with me!
2024-03-1834 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDScott's Story- HRHSOn this episode of Diaries of a Heart Warrior- I am speak with Scott. We met for the first time in 2023 at a Single Ventricle Fontan forum. Please join me in listening to his story and his comparison of how we are at times on a 'scavenger hunt' as an adult to become more knowledgable about our defects. Also hear how as an adult he is finding healing through Facebook platforms taking a step into volunteering. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:
2024-03-1150 min
Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHDBrittney's Transposition of the Arteries, Pulmonary Stenosis and VSDMy heart is full with this episode. I really enjoyed talking to Brittney and learning more about her journey. So often we feel so alone going through life, but in today's episode, I'm beginning to realize that just isn't true. While we may be dealing with different heart issues, we are all going through very similar experiences. Please join me in listening to Brittney's Story.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can hit me up at:Instragram: amy.l.erhartFacebook: Amy Erhart Cunningham
2024-02-1245 min