Welcome to "Stories from the Heart," an engaging podcast series that delves into the personal experiences of the people navigating life with heart conditions, and of those researching solutions to heart disease's biggest challenges.
The series aims to harness the story-telling power of people's experiences with heart disease, Australia's leading cause of death, to raise awareness that could save lives, and influence positive action on heart health.
Join us as we embark on a journey of resilience, courage, and inspiration. Each episode offers a unique perspective on living with heart conditions and shares practical advice for fostering emotional health. "Stories from the Heart" aims to create a supportive community where individuals facing similar challenges can find solace, encouragement, and a wealth of shared wisdom.
Stay tuned for the upcoming episodes as we amplify the voices of those with lived experience, fostering a sense of connection and understanding in the broader community.
Fighting for her life
Wendy knew herself well enough to know when something wasn't right.
She was used to a busy life and long working hours, but gradually the tiredness became harder to ignore. Then came the strange feelings in her chest. Even after seeing a cardiologist and undergoing tests, Wendy couldn't shake the feeling that there was more going on.
So, she kept pushing for answers.
That persistence may have saved her life. Further testing eventually revealed that Wendy's main coronary artery was more than 95 per cent blocked, along with two other blockages. A new cardiologist told her that without treatment, she may not have made it to Christmas.
In this episode of Stories from the Heart, Wendy shares how she learned to trust what her body was telling her, why she refused to give up when she felt something was wrong, and how discovering her family history helped her understand her own risk.
Since receiving treatment, Wendy has made some changes. She's still working, still doing Pilates and still living life on her terms, but she's also learning to slow down, look after herself and appreciate the little things.
And with a new grandson in her life, Wendy has another very special reason to look after her heart: she's promised him she'll be there to dance at his wedding.
Her message to others is one she hopes people will take to heart:
"Know your family history, know your body and have confidence in yourself not to be dismissed."
22 Oct 2026
POTS: from mystery to mainstream
For many people living with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (commonly known as POTS), everyday activities such as standing, studying, working or spending time with family and friends can become exhausting and unpredictable. Hundreds of thousands of Australians are living with the condition, yet many still struggle to have their symptoms recognised and understood.
Symptoms can include dizziness, fainting, fatigue, brain fog and exercise intolerance, and may disrupt education, employment, relationships and everyday independence. One of the more startling aspects of POTS is its prevelance, with hundreds of thousand of Australian believed to be affected.
In this episode of Stories from the Heart, founding members of the Australian POTS Foundation Dr Marie-Claire Seeley and Claire Clark share their lived experience and advocacy, which has helped take POTS from mystery to mainstream. They explore why so many people—especially women—have spent years searching for answers, how COVID-19 accelerated awareness of a condition long hiding in plain sight, and what must change in education, research and clinical support.
Take action
If this story feels familiar, you are not alone—and your symptoms deserve to be taken seriously. Speak with a healthcare professional, explore the trusted resources below, and share this episode to help more people understand POTS. Greater awareness can help shorten the path to diagnosis and build better support for people and families living with the condition.
Links and resources
· Heart Foundation and Australian POTS Foundation partnership
· What is POTS?
· Australian POTS Foundation (https://potsfoundation.org.au/)
23 Sept 2026
Tay Smith: all in for the people she loves
Tay Smith: All in for the people she loves
When Tay Smith's father, Shaun, died suddenly from coronary artery disease at the age of 52, her family was left devastated. He was active, fit, and appeared to be in good health, making his death all the more shocking.
In this episode of Stories from the Heart, the Sydney Swans AFLW star shares the deeply personal story behind her involvement in the Heart Foundation's We're All In campaign. She reflects on the loss of her dad, the impact it had on her family, and the importance of knowing your heart health risk, especially if heart disease runs in your family.
Tay speaks candidly about grief, resilience and the regrets that can come when a loved one doesn't get checked, despite repeated encouragement from family members. Her message is simple but powerful: taking a few minutes to prioritise your heart health could make all the difference for the people who love you.
Heart disease doesn't just affect one person. It affects partners, children, parents, siblings, friends and entire communities. That's why we're all in when it comes to looking after our heart health and encouraging those we love to do the same.
As Tay says, "If you want a lifetime of memories versus ten minutes at the doctor, don't be silly. Go get your heart checked."
Learn more
The Heart Foundation's We're All In campaign is encouraging Australians to understand their risk of heart disease and take action early.
Learn more at We're All In
Heart Health Checks
You may be eligible for a Medicare-funded Heart Health Check if you are:
45 years and over
35 years and over if you have diabetes
30 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Talk to your GP about your heart health risk and whether a Heart Health Check is right for you.
Podcast Authority Score: 34 / 100
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67
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YouTube
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