Shows
Tell HerEmbracing the 'Let Them' Theory: Personal Growth and RelationshipsIn this solo episode of the Tell Her podcast, the host Sharni Knighton, reflects on attending Mel Robbins' "Let Them" event in London and delves into the profound impact of the Let Them theory on both personal and family relationships. Key topics include allowing others to make their own mistakes, letting go of control, and the importance of personal accountability encapsulated in the 'Let Me' aspect of the theory. The host shares personal anecdotes about friendships, parenting, and the transformative power of releasing expectations. Join this introspective journey to understand how these principles can lead to more authentic and...2025-06-1130 min
Tell HerEmpowering Every Strand: Heat Styling with CLOUD NINE's Marie NieuwoudtIn this enlightening episode, we sit down with Marie Nieuwoudt, Global Ambassador and Group Education Manager at CLOUD NINE, to explore the power of heat styling—and how it can be used as a force for good in hair care. With over 38 years in the hair industry and a deep passion for education, Marie shares her expertise on using heat safely, effectively, and inclusively.We go right back to basics—because the truth is, many of us aren’t taught the foundational principles when it comes to styling and hair health. It’s o...2025-06-041h 19
Recovery Discovery by Show Up and StayRecovery Discovery | "AI: clinical application + skeptics"DeAnn Knighton and Craig Knighton, co-hosts of the Recovery Discovery Podcast, discuss their personal and professional journeys and interest in the current innovations in addiction treatment. DeAnn shares her six-year sobriety journey and her career pivot toward clinical mental health counseling. Craig talks about transitioning from engineering to an internship at Hazelden Betty Ford, focusing on addiction research. They explore the potential of AI technology in recovery, using ChatGPT to simulate a conversation about alcohol consumption. The AI provides accurate, empathetic, and non-judgmental advice, highlighting its potential to offer safe, stigma-free support for those seeking help.ABOUT...2025-05-2037 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsSurviving Three Open Heart Surgeries: A Journey Through Tamponade, Aortic Dissection, and Recovery"I grabbed the door handle, and it felt like somebody just cut up my chest with a dull butter knife. And 15 seconds later I was lying face down on the kitchen floor dead from cardiac tamponade at that point in time."Hey Heart Buddies. Whew. Today's episode with Jon Toivonen whose heart story literally stopped—and restarted—multiple times is one to help you take stock of your own life. Jon recounts his first shocking symptoms, the surreal “butter knife” sensation of an aortic dissection, and how fate, luck, and love shaped his survival. While Jon’s physical h...2025-04-2231 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsHeart Health and AI: Marschall Runge on Revolutionizing Patient Care and PreventionHey Heart Buddies! I welcome Dr. Marschall Runge, a leading expert in cardiovascular disease and AI in healthcare, this week to help us explore the transformative role of AI in heart health and discuss its potential to improve diagnostics and predict health outcomes. Runge shares insights into AI's ability to analyze complex medical data, enhancing preventive care and treatment precision. I ask him to address concerns about maintaining human connection in healthcare amidst AI advancements. The conversation highlights the importance of patients being proactive as the "CEO" of their health. Runge expresses optimism about AI's role in revolutionizing healthcare...2025-04-0843 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsBill Pollard's Heart Story: From 1100 Calcium Score to Successful Open Heart SurgeryA simple coronary artery calcium score test saved Bill's life.Meet Bill Pollard, a heart patient from Chesapeake, Virginia. Bill shares his unique journey with a bicuspid valve and stents. At 50, Bill made lifestyle changes after discovering high calcium levels in his arteries. Despite undergoing open heart surgery for valve replacement, Bill resumed an active life, running and participating in fitness groups. His recovery story offers inspiration, emphasizing the importance of heart health awareness, family support, and community connection. Bill’s experience highlights the significance of preventative health scans and maintaining a balanced lifestyle for optimal heart he...2025-03-2527 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsCardiac Success: Dawn Overcomes Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm and Bicuspid Aortic ValveHey Heart Buddies! A heart murmur, congenital aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva, ruptured sinus of Valsalva into right ventricle, bicuspid aortic valve, persistent left superior vena cava and pacemaker... all in one extraordinary heart...This week, I talk with my friend, Dawn Anderson, about her extraordinary heart health journey. Living in Adrian, Minnesota, Dawn shares her experience of discovering and surviving a rare aortic aneurysm and bicuspid aortic valve at age 41. Despite facing multiple challenges, including depression and the stress of losing her job, Dawn emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and seeking support. Her story highlights the...2025-03-1128 min
Tell HerLisa Daly’s Journey of Strength, Survival, and PurposeSome stories stay with you long after they’re told, and this is one of them.In this episode of The Tell Her Podcast, Lisa Daly shares her extraordinary journey of resilience, survival, and finding purpose through adversity. From overcoming breast cancer to navigating the heartbreaking loss of her parents, Lisa’s story is a testament to the power of strength, positivity, and human connection.She takes us through the deeply personal and emotional challenges she faced her battle with cancer, the trauma of workplace betrayal, and how she turned her pain into purpose as a pa...2025-03-051h 33
The Empowered Midlife with Dr. Tracy KnightonEmbracing Midlife: Dr. Tracy Knighton’s Personal Journey Through Midlife and MenopauseThe Empowered Midlife with Dr. Tracy Knighton is your go-to podcast for embracing the next chapter of life with confidence, purpose, and joy. Join Dr. Tracy—educator, speaker, and advocate for thriving in midlife—as she shares insightful conversations, expert advice, and real-life stories that inspire transformation. Whether you're navigating career shifts, health changes, or personal growth, this podcast equips you with the tools to redefine midlife on your terms. It’s time to step into your power, embrace new possibilities, and live your best life—because midlife is just the beginning!2025-03-0412 min
The Empowered Midlife with Dr. Tracy KnightonWelcome to The Empowered Midlife with Dr. Tracy KnightonGet ready to embrace midlife with confidence and purpose! In this intro episode, Dr. Tracy Knighton shares what The Empowered Midlife is all about—helping you navigate life’s transitions, rediscover your passions, and step into your next chapter feeling stronger than ever. Tune in to hear what’s ahead and why midlife is just the beginning of your best years!2025-03-0300 min
Tell HerTurning Pain into Power: Rebecca Dickenson on Boundaries, Burnout & Brave ChoicesIn this powerful episode of The Tell Her Podcast, host Sharni Knighton sits down with Rebecca Dickenson, an industry-leading hair professional and entrepreneur, to explore the emotional side of service-based careers, personal growth, and the power of human connection.Rebecca opens up about how hairdressing is more than just a job it’s about creating safe spaces, navigating vulnerability, and knowing when to protect your energy. She shares how her own experiences with burnout, toxic relationships, and life-changing decisions like cutting ties with her family led her to discover resilience and redefine success on her own terms....2025-02-261h 09Open Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis: Post-op Zen for Your PelvisHey Heart Buddies! I hope you have enjoyed this month's pelvic health series. In this final installment with Dr. Kelly Sadauckas, we unravel the mysteries of pelvic health and its crucial connection to overall wellness by using a unique interactive experience designed to teach you how to relax your pelvic floor. All you'll need is a simple towel and a quiet space. Ever wondered about the secrets of diaphragmatic breathing or how to harness the power of neuroplasticity for pelvic health? This is the episode for you! This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to...2025-02-2511 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis: Poop Strategies for Heart Surgery PatientsHey to all of my heart friends. This episode may be a tad cringy at times. Sorry, not sorry. Curious about what happens after open-heart surgery that no one else seems to talk about? Dr. Kelly Sadauckas takes us on a journey into a post-operative topic that’s often overlooked: pooping. This episode sheds light on the intricate processes involved in digestion and bowel movement and reveals surprising ways to prepare for and recover from surgery more smoothly. We do our best to make the complex world of gut health accessible and—dare we say it—fun! T...2025-02-1833 min
Tell HerMeet Sharni Knighton: Why She’s Sharing the Stories of Extraordinary Ordinary WomenEmpowering Women: Conversations on Vulnerability, Strength, and AuthenticityIn the debut episode of the 'Tell Her Podcast,' host Sharni is Interviewed for an in-depth conversation about the motivations behind starting the podcast. Sharni reveals her vision to create a supportive space for women, her personal and professional journey, and the extraordinary stories of women she encounters in her hair loss clinic. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, empowerment, and authenticity. Listeners are introduced to Sharni's unique experiences and how various influential women have profoundly impacted her life. The episode also touches on societal issues, including women's...2025-02-1746 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis: When Can You Return to Intimacy?Happy Valentine's Day to all my heart buddies. Today is an extra episode just for you! Expert Dr. Kelly Sadauckas and I continue our series this month as we explore post-surgery intimacy and pelvic health for heart surgery patients. In this episode, Dr. Kelly educates us on the significance of understanding concepts like metabolic equivalent tasks (METs) and cardiac rehab to ensure safe resumption of sexual activities. She explains that a MET of five indicates moderate activity, similar to intimacy post-heart surgery. She touches on pelvic floor health, relaxation techniques, and the mental and physical impacts of surgery scars...2025-02-1415 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis: Connection Between Erectile Dysfunction and Heart HealthHey Heart Buddies! Our five-part series with pelvic health expert Dr. Kelly Sadauckas continues this week as we explore the surprising ties between erectile dysfunction and cardiac health. Discover why sexual health matters more than you might think and how it serves as an important marker for your overall wellbeing. This episode's video is live on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss when they are posted!To connect with Dr. Kelly and access her courses, etc, go here: Pelvic Floored: The best online pelvic floor exercises & wellness Coupon code is OHS2025. This...2025-02-1134 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis: Uncovering the Surprising Links and Crucial Care TipsDr. Kelly Sadauckas brings her pelvic floor wisdom to the world as we explore the crucial link between pelvic health and your overall well-being in this first episode of our February series, Heart Surgery to Happy Pelvis. Dr. Kelly, with her 25 years of experience, busts the myths surrounding pelvic health issues—whether it's pee, poop, or the delicate topic of intimacy. You’ll discover why your recovery journey must go beyond just focusing on your heart, touching on why "normal" pelvic functions might be more elusive than you think, and why being pain-free isn’t just wishful thinking. Prepare to lea...2025-02-0453 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsTraditional Meets Social: A New Era in Heart Health RevolutionHey Heart Buddies. This episode is so important. I welcome Julia Hotz, whose book, "The Connection Cure," is revolutionizing the way we approach healthcare. This episode takes a deep dive into how social prescribing—a practice that includes non-medical treatments such as art, movement, nature, and community involvement—can significantly enhance heart health and overall well-being. Julia shares compelling data and heartwarming stories about individuals who've transformed their lives through these holistic measures. Hear how simple, yet powerful, prescriptions for happiness and connection can make all the difference in your journey towards thriving post-heart surgery. You won't want to miss...2025-01-2848 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsHeart Resilience: Overcoming Cardiomyopathy and Heart Block for a Brighter FutureHey Heart Buddies! I welcome Kina Lucombe, who shares her story of cardiomyopathy and complete heart block. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle as a pescatarian, Kina unexpectedly collapsed during yoga in February 2019. Diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and complete heart block, she required an emergency pacemaker surgery. Kina discusses the emotional aftermath and how it led her to found Hearts of Valor, a support organization for heart patients. She emphasizes the importance of sharing health struggles with loved ones and staying hopeful despite a heart diagnosis. Kina's inspiring story underscores the unexpected challenges of heart health and the power...2025-01-2135 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsLucinda's Journey: Mitral Valve Repair, Tricuspid Valve Leakage, and Diastolic Heart FailureHey Heart Buddies! Boots Knighton speaks with Lucinda McDermott about navigating heart health after discovering a severely leaking tricuspid valve. Lucinda shares her journey, from initial chest pain and fainting to being diagnosed with a heart murmur by her OB GYN. After mitral valve replacement in 2017, Lucinda faced additional challenges, including fragmented healthcare and dismissive cardiologists. Both Lucinda and Boots stress the importance of patient advocacy, support networks like WomenHeart, and having a “heart doula” during medical appointments. The episode highlights key issues like secure insurance, patient empowerment, and the significance of clear communication with healthcare providers.Want...2025-01-1433 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsSurviving Endocarditis, Brain Aneurysm and Stroke: Lessons from Todd Sykes' Extraordinary JourneyHey Heart Buddies! For the last episode of 2024, I bring you one more bonus episode that was the most downloaded episode of 2024. Thank you to my childhood friend, Todd Sykes, for your willingness to tell your story. I love you.Todd Sykes is a survivor and thriver of endocarditis, a stroke, and a brain aneurysm. At just 37, Todd faced life-threatening conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to two heart surgeries and a remarkable recovery. He shares powerful lessons on the importance of loving well, prioritizing family time, and being prepared with insurance and wills. Todd's story highlights...2024-12-2433 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsLiving Fully with a Mechanical Valve: Insights from Joel OliverHey Heart Buddies! For the remainder of the year, I am bringing back the most downloaded episodes of the year. First up is Joel Oliver! His "easy peasy" heart surgery story might surprise you. Joel takes us step by step through his mitral valve replacement journey, revealing moments of doubt, resilience, and unexpected challenges along the way. While Joel's surgery marked a significant event in his life, the real intrigue lies in his post-surgery perspectives. Did this intense experience radically change his outlook on life, or did it simply become another chapter in his adventurous narrative? Whether...2024-12-1724 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsHope for the Holidays: Overcoming Aortic Aneurysm and Bicuspid Aortic ValveHey Heart Buddies! I welcome back Robyn Peacock for an update on her incredible journey for “Hope for the Holidays." This conversation is packed with Robyn’s reflections on her battles with an aortic aneurysm and bicuspid aortic valve. Learn about her physical triumphs and the often-overlooked mental health challenges that many heart patients face post-treatment. Robyn shares her newfound purpose working with Heart Valve Voice and how she brings hope and support to fellow heart patients. Plus, a special revelation about the rising buzz around mental health at cardiac conferences. Tune in to find out why this episode coul...2024-11-2618 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsHope for the Holidays: The Gift of Extra Time Post Myocardial Bridging Surgery Hey Heart Friends. I sit down with previous guest, Jeff Holden, to explore the profound changes heart surgery brings into one's life. Jeff recaps his own battle against myocardial bridging, recounting the gratitude he feels every day. From open-heart surgery to life-altering dreams, Jeff unpacks the layers of his experiences, revealing how overcoming a near-fatal condition has fueled his passion for advocacy and storytelling. Curious about the life-changing dream Jeff had after surgery? Tune in to understand why this dream has become the cornerstone of his new mission and find out how he’s making a difference in the fi...2024-11-1928 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsHope for the Holidays: Still feeling 20 years younger after HCM diagnosis and myectomyHey Heart Buddies! I am back for part two of Hope for the Holidays with Lisa Mihan who returns to share her incredible progress post-myectomy. Lisa was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy but never gave up. She has transformed from struggling with daily symptoms to thriving on the tennis court and embracing a more vibrant life. This episode isn't just about physical recovery—it's about overcoming mental and emotional hurdles too. Tune in to hear relatable stories of finding hope, building community, and the surprising gifts that come from life's toughest challenges.You can listen to Lisa's original in...2024-11-1215 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsHope for the Holidays: Celebrating Life After Four Open-heart SurgeriesHey Heart Buddies! I'm Boots Knighton, your guide through our special holiday series, "Hope for the Holidays." Today, we're revisiting a truly inspiring story that embodies resilience and hope in its purest form. Our guest is none other than Bill Wingate, a remarkable individual hailing from Birmingham, Alabama. Bill’s journey is a testament to the human spirit, having endured four major open-heart surgeries, seven heart valve replacements, and numerous other procedures over 27 years.In this episode, Bill opens up about the emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges he faced, especially after his most recent surgery in early 2023. He...2024-11-0514 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsEmpower Your Heart Health Series: How Nutrition Can Save Your HeartHello Heart Buddies! This is our 5th and final installment of the Empower Your Heart Health Series! Cardiac dietitian, Michelle Routhenstein, comes back for one more powerful episode of how to take control of your heart health through science-based nutrition. She shares inspiring success stories, including a client who dramatically improved her heart function and another who avoided surgery by reducing artery inflammation. TRUE STORY! Michelle emphasizes that dietary choices significantly impact overall heart health, urging listeners to be proactive and empowered in their care. Next up on the podcast...the next series starts next week! "Hope...2024-10-2911 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsEmpower Your Heart Health Series: How Ultra-Processed Foods and Supplements Can Contribute to Cardiovascular RiskHey Heart buddies! Today is part four of our series with cardiac dietitian Michelle Routhenstein. We delve into the dangers of ultra-processed foods, particularly supplements like protein and electrolyte powders. Did you know these products can elevate inflammatory markers, increasing the risk of heart attacks!? Michelle explains the concept of oxidative stress and its impact on heart health, highlighting the importance of pairing good nutrition with exercise. She offers practical advice on switching from processed recovery drinks to real food. The episode underscores the value of comprehensive heart health strategies and announces Michelle's upcoming six-week heart optimization course for...2024-10-2219 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsEmpower your Heart Health Series: Building a Heart-Healthy DietHello Heart Buddies! Our October series continues with cardiac dietitian extraordinaire, Michelle Routhenstein. We dismantle the myth that heart health is all about cutting foods out and dive deep into the necessity of nutrient sufficiency. Michelle shares real-life examples, including her own experiences with clients, to explain why just losing weight isn’t enough to optimize vascular health. She also teaches us about how the right balance of nutrients — rather than restrictive dieting — can improve your digestion, energy levels, and overall quality of life. If you’ve ever found yourself lost in a maze of restrictive diets like I was, thi...2024-10-1518 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsEmpower Your Heart Health Series: Cholesterol, Insulin Resistance, Inflammation, and moreHey Heart Buddies! Our October series with my cardiac dietitian, Michelle Routhenstein, continues. Today, we tackle the widespread misinformation about heart health. Michelle emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, stressing that both LDL cholesterol and insulin resistance matter for heart health. They discuss the value of comprehensive blood tests and the need for patients to advocate for themselves. Michelle warns against cherry-picking data and highlights the significance of various health metrics, including inflammation and blood pressure. The episode encourages listeners to take charge of their health, understand their blood test results, and maintain open communication with their healthcare...2024-10-0814 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsBiotoxin Illness: The Urgent Threat to Your Heart and How to Protect ItHost, Boots Knighton, interviews Dr. Robin Thompson, a naturopathic doctor specializing in biotoxin illness. They discuss the major health obstacles faced by heart patients, including exposure to mold and other biotoxins in water-damaged buildings. Robin explains how these toxins infiltrate the body, causing inflammation and a range of symptoms like chronic fatigue and GI issues. She shares practical advice for detecting and treating biotoxin-related illnesses, recommending resources like SurvivingMold.com and ISEAI. Boots shares her own health journey, highlighting profound improvements under Robin's care. They stress the importance of holistic, personalized treatment for long-term recovery.About Dr...2024-09-2435 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsHeart Surgery to Himalayan Heights: A Mountaineer's Inspirational Journey#67 Inspired by Warren Zevon’s philosophy to "enjoy every sandwich," Billy Haas walked on the treadmill for hours, eating sandwiches post open-heart surgery in order to cope with depression and the reality that his world had changed in an instant. In this episode, Billy shares about how drinking too much coffee on Denali led to a dual diagnosis of Septal Defect and Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return resulting in open-heart surgery instead of a trip to Pakistan. A year later, he began to experience Severe Vena Cava Occlusion leading to the placement of a stent. Billy walks us through ho...2024-09-171h 01Open Heart Surgery with BootsThriving After Surgery: Embracing Life with a New Mitral Valve#67 Joel Oliver, a heart surgery patient from Calgary, Canada shares his mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve in 2018. Despite the initial struggles during recovery, Joel has since lived a full and active life. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining hope and patience through the difficult recovery period. Joel also discusses his current medications and how, aside from these, he feels no lasting impact from his surgery. More about Joel: Joel Oliver is the owner and founder of East Coast Studio, a podcast production company which helps entrepreneurs enjoy the benefits of podcasting, while making the process...2024-09-1022 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsWhy Heart Patients Must Monitor Symptoms and Be ER Ready: Critical InsightsHey Heart Buddies! Oooooo today's episode is another episode I needed when I was starting my heart journey. I interview Jennifer Johnson, an ER nurse, who dishes on all the things our doctors aren't going to tell us heart patients... at least I haven't had one tell me all that Jenn shares in this episode. She emphasizes the importance of being proactive about health, grieving, and understanding women's unique heart attack symptoms. The discussion covers practical tips for heart patients, including keeping a detailed symptom journal, bringing medication lists to the ER, and financial assistance for medications. They highlight...2024-09-0350 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsWhy Heart Scans Matter: A personal Battle with Hypertrophic CardiomyopathyHey Heart Buddies! We hear from Holly Morrell who shares the profound impact of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy on her family and herself including her personal experience with a faulty defibrillator implant, multiple surgeries, and a life-threatening rupture that necessitated open-heart surgery. Despite these challenges, Holly finds strength and purpose, continually striving to prevent sudden cardiac arrest in communities through her nonprofit, Heartfelt. You can get in touch with her at holly@heartfeltscreening.orgJoin the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.Join the Patreon Community! The...2024-08-2737 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsMedical Miracle: How Hyvelle Ferguson-Davis Overcame Stroke, Heart Attack, and Surgery#63 Listen up, Heart Buddies. Today's conversation with Hyvelle is important. She walks us through the importance of gaining information and taking accountability for one's health by sharing her truly shocking personal experience that highlights the consequences of ignoring early warning signs. A stroke ultimately saved her life by revealing a critical heart condition. Hyvelle gets real about the mental and emotional impact of facing life-altering surgeries and the transformative power of finding gratitude in the face of adversity. She also sheds light on the healthcare disparities faced by communities of color and the financial burdens that hinder access to...2024-08-1330 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsOwn Your Heart Surgery Journey: Embracing Responsibility for Healing and Positive Mindset#62 Heart surgery buddies! I needed this episode when I was facing heart surgery and I know you do too. Dr. Kim Peirano and I discuss the power of storytelling and mindset in managing pain and medical experiences. She emphasizes the importance of choosing empowering narratives, embracing vulnerability, and finding balance between taking control and accepting reality. Dr. Peirano also warns about false promises in the wellness industry and advises listeners to research practitioners thoroughly. She introduces the concepts of "optimistic realism" and "optimistic nihilism" as ways to transform one's perception of challenging situations. The conversation also touches on preparing...2024-08-0653 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Triple Bypass to 70.3 half Ironman in One Year#61 Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, John Spilman required a triple bypass due to severe blockages. He describes warning signs like fatigue and shortness of breath that led to lifesaving surgery. John's recovery included challenges like Afib, but through cardiac rehab and determination, he completed a half Ironman just a year later. His experience emphasizes being your own health advocate and finding support in the heart patient community. John's inspiring journey offers hope to others facing major health obstacles. More about John Spilman: I've been in endurance sports for over 25 years, participating in over 35 marathons, 15 half Ironman triathlons...2024-07-3033 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsSecond Heart Surgery Fears: A listener's Courage and Boots' Wisdom#59 In this episode, host, Boots Knighton, addresses a heartfelt email from a listener named DH. DH shares her struggles with failed heart surgeries and the upcoming need for another complex procedure to repair her mitral and tricuspid valves. Boots discusses the emotional and physical challenges of heart surgery, emphasizing the importance of mental health and seeking support. Boots offers encouragement, shares personal experiences, and highlights the power of resilience and self-advocacy. Listeners are invited to connect, support the podcast, and follow DH's journey. This episode focuses on inspiration, community support, and navigating heart health challenges. Visit OpenHeartSurgeryWithBoots.com for...2024-07-1618 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsFrom Heart Failure to Heart Hero: A Journey from LVAD to Transplant SuccessHey heart buddies, this episode is truly extraordinary. Try to imagine plugging your heart in at night to keep it beating. Yeah, I can't imagine it either. I say this often when I have the honor of interviewing heart transplant recipients and this time is no different. Allow me to introduce you to Christian Jousset. Christian, after facing a daunting heart failure diagnosis in 2015, navigated a world of medical treatments, surgical procedures, and life-saving devices (say hello to the heartmate 3/LVAD that kept Christian alive!). He is now thriving post heart transplant!!! Christian's story is a testament...2024-07-0953 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsMind and Spirit Preparation: Enhancing Heart Surgery RecoveryHost, Boots Knighton, discusses mental and spiritual preparation for heart surgery, highlighting its crucial role in recovery. Knighton stresses the importance of educating oneself about the procedure, setting realistic expectations, and practicing stress management techniques such as deep breathing and meditation. She also emphasizes positive thinking, seeking professional support, and connecting with one's spirituality. Emotional and social preparedness, including clear communication with loved ones and building a support system, are also vital. Finally, Knighton advises planning for comfort by bringing personal items to the hospital. This episode is a comprehensive guide for those facing any surgery, enhancing both mental...2024-07-0220 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsPreparing for Open-Heart Surgery: A Patient’s Guide for SuccessAre you or a loved one facing the daunting reality of open-heart surgery and need help preparing? Boots Knighton dives into an essential pre-surgery checklist to help you prepare not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. This episode offers twelve actionable steps, from consulting your array of doctors to managing nutrition and chronic conditions. Discover how hope, diet, and even a good physical therapist can set the stage for a successful recovery. Feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry; Boots is here to be your heart buddy, guiding you through every step of this life-changing journey. Tune in for helpful advice that...2024-06-2521 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsComprehensive Guide to Building Your Heart Surgery Medical TeamBoots presents a comprehensive list of professionals you should consider hiring in episode 55. This is a must-listen for anyone prepping for open-heart surgery. She reveals the secrets to building an all-star team that sets you up for a smooth journey and triumphant recovery. Ever thought about the importance of a heart surgery doula, an ultra-involved mental health therapist, or how your dentist could impact your heart health? Boots breaks it all down, sharing wisdom on why these roles are game-changers. Plus, get a sneak peek into some game-changing lifestyle considerations like naturopathy and dietitian guidance that can speed up...2024-06-1828 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsOpen Heart Surgery with Boots Trailer"Open Heart Surgery with Boots" is a podcast hosted by Boots Knighton, a heart patient turned advocate. Boots shares her personal journey, addressing the fears and triumphs faced by heart surgery patients. Each episode dives into the human side of heart health, featuring stories from medical professionals and resilient patients. Listeners can expect insights, guidance, and inspiration through real-life experiences. The podcast focuses on the highs and lows of heart surgery, aiming to support and uplift those navigating this challenging journey. Subscribe to hear transformative stories of courage, hope, and the power of community, all from a heart patient’s...2024-06-0401 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsThe Hidden Power of the Brain: The Impact of Pain On Healing**Alert! The name of this podcast is changing on June 4th! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the announcement. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!**Pain is real. Ignore it at your own peril. Think of it as your check engine light. While pain is not a good parameter for how much damage has happened, it does play a role in helping you assess how dangerous the situation is.Boots Knighton and her physical therapist, Ann Alton, take you through a 40-minute lesson on pain, the brain's role in pain perception and...2024-05-2141 minOpen Heart Surgery with BootsYour Guide to the First 24 Hours After Open-Heart Surgery from a Respiratory Therapist#46 What does it feel like 24 hours after open-heart surgery? Cheryl Ilov strips the mystery away, providing an intimate narration of the OR's intense atmosphere. From the beep of the monitors to the whoosh of the ventilator, Cheryl guides listeners through the process as if they are right there in the room. Host Boots Knighton offers perspective from the patient's side, revealing what it's like to wake up amidst a forest of tubes and wires. This episode is a rare look behind the curtain of medical advancement and personal transformation. A Little More About Today's Guest...2024-04-1635 min
Open Heart Surgery with BootsThe Power of Presence and Intuition in Heart Surgery with Dr. Fazzino#43 Boots Knighton and Dr. Dolores Fazzino discuss how heart surgery impacts the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Uncover the power of being in the moment and how intuition can guide life-changing decisions. Dr. Fazzino shares her transformative health care journey, the healing potential of energy work, and the role spirituality plays in medical recovery. Explore the challenges heart patients face with depression, the surprising effects of organ transplants, and why expressing love for our bodies is vital. Dive into this powerful conversation on self-discovery and wellness and learn how emotional healing can lead to a balanced, joy-filled life.2024-03-261h 07