Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD

Today we have the privilege of speaking with Gil Wenovsky.  He shares with is the time he has spent in pediatric cardiology being a cardiac intensivist and what it has meant to him over the years.  After 43 years as a practicing physician he has seen medical field make leaps and bounds while also being part of the movement.  Not only was he a pediatric cardiologist/cardac intensivist, he also has a great interest in the behavioral aspect.  His experience has allowed him to write about the topic and bring some major changes into the practice that he seeks to provide for his patients.  He shares the history and changes that have happened over the decades in the cardiac world and is nothing short of fascinating and he has had the privilege to have not only a ring side seat, but also be involved in those changes.  We hope you enjoy this episode.

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

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My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, Tim Nelson, CEO and Co-Founder of HeartWorks, joins us to share who HeartWorks is and why their mission matters so deeply in the CHD world.

As Tim talks about the meaning behind their slogan, “We Build Hearts,” his passion for the future of congenital heart disease care is undeniable. HeartWorks is focused on pushing beyond survival and striving toward something bigger—a future centered on innovation, research, and ultimately, a cure for CHD.

From their collaborative approach to advancing research studies to creating opportunities for CHD patients and families to get involved, HeartWorks is working to make meaningful change for the community. Tim’s energy and vision are inspiring, and this conversation is a powerful reminder that there are people passionately fighting for a better future for every heart warrior.

https://heartworksinc.org/

https://www.facebook.com/webuildhearts/

https://www.instagram.com/webuildhearts/

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

Find our journey’s on Facebook:

My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Let’s have some real conversation.

In today’s episode, we sit down with Josh for an authentic discussion covering a wide range of topics that many in the CHD community think about every day. From mindset, dating, and marriage to navigating difficult conversations with children and dealing with the frustrations of insurance, no topic was off limits.

This honest and heartfelt conversation shines a light on the many layers of living with CHD and reminds us just how much patients carry—both physically and emotionally.

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

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My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

**TRIGGER WARNING- CONVERSATION ON PREGNANCY**

In today’s episode, we, as co-hosts, open up about our personal journeys surrounding family and children. While our paths look very different, we share a common understanding of the emotional weight that comes with navigating pregnancy and CHD.

From adoption and surrogacy to choosing a child-free life, every journey is valid—none greater or less meaningful than another. Through our stories, we hope to create space for all experiences and remind you that there is no one “right” path.

Two different stories. Two different outcomes. And two very happy, fulfilled individuals living with CHD.

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

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My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Jen and Mark Hinkle lost their son Ollie to CHD complications in 2013. In the midst of unimaginable grief, they created something truly impactful in his honor—The Ollie Hinkle Heart Foundation—which has grown into one of the most comprehensive support systems in the CHD community.

Through their work, Ollie’s name and legacy continue to touch lives across the country, offering support, connection, and care to families who need it most.

In this episode, Amy and Meagan sit down with Anna Farrell—heart mom and OHHF’s fundraising development manager—to explore the many ways the foundation is making a difference. From national mental health therapy matching and meal delivery programs to CPR events at local bars and preventative heart screenings, this conversation highlights the far-reaching impact of a legacy built on love, loss, and purpose.

https://theohhf.org/

https://www.instagram.com/theohhf/

https://www.facebook.com/theohhf/

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

Find our journey’s on Facebook:

My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

If you’re looking for someone who truly embodies a glass-half-full mindset, Joe is your person.

In today’s episode, Joe shares how his perspective has helped him maintain positivity through life’s challenges. His journey hasn’t been easy—facing open-heart surgery at 17 and again at 29, along with the setback of losing a job—but finding his way to a career he loves.

Joe opens up about the power of mindset and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people, offering a meaningful reminder of how both can shape and strengthen your CHD journey.

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

Find our journey’s on Facebook:

My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, we’re honored to speak with Ellen Boyer, Co-Founder and President of the The Brett Boyer Foundation. Through this conversation, Ellen shares the beautiful and deeply moving story of her daughter, Brett.

Born with both a congenital heart defect and Down syndrome, Brett brought immense joy and light to everyone around her. Even through profound loss, Ellen, her husband, and their community have transformed their grief into something truly meaningful—creating a foundation that supports CHD, Down syndrome, mental health, research, and provides financial assistance to families in need.

We also highlight two incredible parts of their mission: the Warriors program, which celebrates Heart Warriors and creates a space to embrace and honor their stories and scars, and Brett’s Barn—founded by Brett’s aunt, Caroline Bryan, and fully funded by Caroline and Luke Bryan. Ellen shares how Brett’s Barn came to life and the impact it continues to have today.

Brett’s story is nothing short of extraordinary—offering hope to families navigating grief and strength to those still in the fight. Join us as we celebrate Brett’s life and legacy with her mother, Ellen.

https://www.thebrettboyerfoundation.org/

https://www.instagram.com/brightforbrett/

https://www.facebook.com/brightforbrett/

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

Find our journey’s on Facebook:

My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, Jake joins us to share his perspective on his heart journey and the path it has led him down. From navigating the transplant evaluation process to reflecting on what it all means for his future, Jake offers an honest and grounded look at life in a complex season.

He walks us through his recent appointments, giving insight into what transplant evaluation can look like, while also opening up about his mindset along the way. Jake brings a refreshing balance — reminding us not to take everything too seriously, while still honoring the weight and reality of what he’s facing.

 If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

Find our journey’s on Facebook:

My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

In this special episode, Amy and Meagan reflect on an unforgettable milestone—the very first Adult Heart Camp.

Seventeen adults living with congenital heart disease traveled from multiple states to gather for a weekend built on something many of us have searched for our entire lives: connection. While heart camps have long existed for children with CHD, this weekend was created specifically for adults—a place where no one had to explain their scars, their medical history, or what it's like to live with a lifelong heart condition.

Throughout the weekend, strangers became friends as stories were shared, laughter filled the campgrounds, and a community was formed through a shared understanding that only another CHDers can truly provide.

Join us as we look back on the memories, the lessons, and the incredible impact of creating a space where adults with CHD could simply belong. This episode celebrates the power of community and reminds us that heart camp doesn't have to end in childhood—it can become something just as meaningful in adulthood.

Until we meet again at Adult Heart Camp 2027,
Amy Erhart Cunningham Founder/Host

Please email [email protected] for more information about Heart Camp 2027

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

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My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

In today’s Murmur Mill, we talk about the idea of living “normal” lives. While we’re fully aware that we have heart defects, we also know they don’t define who we are. The belief that people with CHD can’t live full, fulfilling lives is just that—a misconception. Many of us are thriving and living abundant lives. That doesn’t mean we don’t need support from time to time, but we’re not nearly as fragile as some people assume. Join us as we walk through this concept.  

If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,com

Find our journey’s on Facebook:

My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

My HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt