SaveHeart Stories

Schools know they need better AED coverage, especially across athletic fields and outdoor facilities. The challenge is often not convincing people that AEDs matter. It’s finding the money to put them where they’re needed.

In this episode of SaveHeart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation welcomes Jonathan Goldman, founding partner of Funding for Teams and Reaching Our Goal. Jon brings more than 20 years of fundraising experience and has helped nearly 20,000 high school and college teams raise tens of millions of dollars. Today, that experience is helping power SaveHeart Fundraising and giving schools a practical way to fund lifesaving AED programs.

Schools know they need AEDs. They know those AEDs need to be accessible where students are actually practicing, playing and gathering.

And while they know they need money to make it happen, fundraising can seem overwhelming.

SaveHeart Fundraiser does the heavy lifting for you.

We provide the proven platform and expertise to create customized fundraising campaigns for schools, teams and community organizations. We create the campaign & messaging for you and track status with you every step of the way.

Takeaways

— Make fundraising personal. Focus on adults who already know and care about the students involved.

— Small donations add up. An average donation of about $80 can quickly become significant when an entire team participates.

— Don’t limit your reach geographically. Grandparents, relatives and family friends can support students from anywhere.

— Lead with the “why.” Funding lifesaving AED coverage gives supporters a powerful reason to participate.

— Keep participation simple. Students can help by providing contacts instead of selling products or going door-to-door.

— Remove work for school leaders. A campaign that takes only minutes to start is far more likely to get off the ground.

— Don’t let funding stop AED expansion. Fundraising can provide the missing piece when schools know they need better coverage but lack the budget.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction

02:34 The Birth of Reaching Our Goal

07:55 Fundraising Lessons Learned

16:00 Underfunding in Schools

20:30 SaveHeart Fundraising

25:18 How it Works

28:30 Getting Started

Helpful Links:

Jonathan Goldman, Reaching Our Goal: https://www.reachingourgoal.com/

SaveHeart Fundraiser: www.saveheart.life/fundraiser

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

One minute you’re doing what you’ve always done, feeling strong, staying active, living your routine. The next, everything changes. When Sudden Cardiac Arrest strikes, strength and discipline are thrown out the window. Whether you make it through comes down to who’s around you, whether AEDs are available, and how quickly people will respond.

In this episode of SaveHeart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation sits down with Trey Mobley and Karen Sheets-Mobley to share a story with a happy ending that could have gone very differently. Trey suffered sudden cardiac arrest while working out in December 2023. What followed was a chain reaction of fast action, trained responders, and access to an AED. In short, everything that needed to go right did.

What happened next is changing lives. From launching a grassroots effort to fund AED placements, to advocating for awareness in underserved areas of Louisville, to personally training others in hands-only CPR, they are helping others to become more aware of the dangers or SCA, and to be prepared with AEDs.

When you hear this story, and then you see, or don’t, an available AED where people gather, you’ll think differently. That’s the goal, and that’s what this podcast is all about.

Takeaways

– Sudden cardiac arrest can happen without warning, even in active, healthy individuals

– Immediate CPR and AED access were the difference in Trey’s survival

– Bystander awareness and fast action matter more than most people realize

– Many public places still lack accessible AEDs when seconds count

– Family history and hidden conditions often go unchecked until it’s too late

– Survival often creates a responsibility to advocate and educate others

– Grassroots efforts can quickly expand awareness and save lives

– Hands-only CPR is simple to learn and can be taught to anyone

– Visibility of AEDs changes how people think about safety in public spaces

Chapters

00:18 Introduction:

02:05 Trey Mobley’s Story

07:55 Mobilizing a Movement

16:16 No Warning Signs to SCA

10:27 Partnerships for Effectiveness

19:23 Next Steps and Opportunities

25:05 Contacting Karen and Trey

29:20 Closing Thoughts

Helpful Links:

Karen Sheets-Mobley and Trey Mobley: Contact them through Dave Fritzsche

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

No matter how hard it is, no matter how much it hurts, life goes on for those who must. Every family handles tragic loss differently. Some focus on the loss, and that is understandable. Others refuse to be silent and choose to speak up, to educate others, and to push for changes that could spare another family from walking the same road. 

This episode of the SaveHeart Stories podcast focuses on a family that did the latter. Host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation talks with Stephanie Kornet of the 4Alec Foundation to talk about her son Alec, a student-athlete whose life was cut short after hockey practice at just 17 years old.

The discussion explores the real-world work happening on the ground: AED placement in schools and community spaces, partnerships with organizations like Parent Heart Watch, and the impact of Ohio’s House Bill 47, requiring emergency action plans and AED access in places where kids play. 

Stephanie also speaks candidly about awareness gaps, such as how often parents assume “this won’t happen to us,” and why education and confidence to act matter just as much as equipment.

Takeaways

-Sudden cardiac arrest often shows no warning signs, even in healthy student-athletes

-CPR training and AED awareness empower everyday people to act, not panic

-Ohio’s House Bill 47 is a start, but compliance and follow-through matter

-Schools, rec centers, and youth sports facilities play a critical role in preparedness

-Sharing personal stories helps break the “this won’t happen to us” mindset

-Grassroots foundations rely heavily on partnerships and community support

-Awareness without confidence still leaves gaps—education must lead to action

-Small steps taken locally can ripple outward and save lives

Chapters

00:16 Introduction:

01:02 About Alec Kornet

03:11 Mission of 4Alec Foundation

08:06 Focus on Awareness, CPR Training and AED Placements

10:27 Partnerships for Effectiveness

13:19 Learn more/Contact Stephanie

14:58 Meant To Be

16:38 Closing Thoughts

Helpful Links:  

Stephanie Kornet, 4Alec Foundation: www.4Alec.org

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

Important work often grows quietly, through steady commitment, difficult decisions, and people who choose to turn loss into something that protects others. Across schools, families, and entire communities, heart safety and prevention are no longer abstract ideas. They’re becoming real practices, built by people who decided that tragedy would not be the final word.

In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation talks with Tormod Larsen, co-founder of the Kristoffer Larsen Big Heart Memorial Foundation in Geneva, Illinois. After losing their son Kristoffer to sudden cardiac arrest at just 22 years old, Tormod and his family chose to honor his life by building something that would help spare other families from the same loss.

Through years of steady work, the Kristoffer Larsen Big Heart Memorial Foundation has screened more than 5,000 students and identified dozens of young people with hidden heart conditions. Their efforts extend beyond Illinois through scholarships, leadership development, and student-driven screening programs now reaching as far as Alabama. 

This episode shows family at it’s finest, making the best outcome possible of the worst event imaginable. The difference being made is tangible, as one family’s tragedy continues to create protection, opportunity, and life-saving impact for thousands of others. 

Takeaways

-Tragedy can become a catalyst for long-term protection

-Screenings and AED access must work together

-Early detection changes outcomes

-Awareness only matters if it leads to action

-Scholarships carry impact beyond prevention

-Youth leadership multiplies legacy

-Technology supports survival, but people sustain the mission

-Progress happens one school and one town at a time

Chapters

00:17 Introduction:

01:52 About Christopher Larsen

04:06 Mission of Big Heart

08:16 Screening Impact

10:45 Scholarship Success

13:16 Screening Process

18:20 Advancements in the fight against SCA

 26:50 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Helpful Links:  

Tormod Larsen at Kristoffer Larsen Big Heart Foundation: http://www.kristofferbigheart.org/

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. The grief is crushing, the questions are endless, and the road ahead feels impossible to walk. Yet even in the darkest places, some find a way to turn sorrow into strength. They discover a purpose that not only honors their loved one but also protects countless others from the same heartbreak.

In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation talks with George Laman, a U.S. Navy veteran, and longtime fire chief, whose life was forever changed when his daughter Lauren died of sudden cardiac arrest during high school practice.

George shares the heartbreaking details of that day, the shortcomings in emergency response, and the moment he vowed to honor Lauren’s life by making sure other families would be spared the same loss. You’ll hear how George’s determination led to the passage of “Lauren’s Law” in Illinois, mandating CPR and AED training for all high school students, and similar efforts in Florida

With faith, gratitude, and relentless drive, he continues to push for broader awareness, outdoor AED access, and education that empowers families at home, at school, and in the community. His upcoming book, The Father’s Promise, captures this journey of love, loss, and the power to create lasting change.

Takeaways

-Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading natural cause of death, claiming hundreds of thousands each year.

-Early CPR and AED use are essential. Every minute matters.

-George Lehman’s daughter Lauren died at age 18 during high school practice.

-Out of tragedy came “Lauren’s Law” in Illinois, requiring CPR/AED training for all high school students.

-George later carried his advocacy to Florida, helping pass a stronger CPR/AED law there.

-Persistence, partnerships, and faith fueled years of advocacy.

-Teaching young people CPR/AED skills empowers an entire generation of lifesavers.

-Outdoor AED access is a critical next frontier in saving lives.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction/Meet George Laman

02:38 Lauren Laman’s Legacy

06:43 Lauren’s Law

10:51 Florida Legislation

18:19 A Father's Promise

20:25 Final Thoughts

Helpful Links:

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

When our loved ones go off to school, or to work, or to practice and play, we always expect to see them again. But Sudden Cardiac Arrest is a silent killer, and it strikes at unexpected times in unexpected ways. When it happens in your famiy, it changes everything. That’s why access to AED’s is so important where people gather. Being aware and planning ahead can make a difference that saves lives.  

In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation speaks with Matt Mangene, founder of the One-Shot Foundation, which was established to honor his son Matthew. Matthewt ragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest. 

The conversation delves into Matthew's vibrant personality, the foundation's mission to raise awareness about cardiac arrest, and the importance of training and education in emergency response. 

They discuss upcoming events, advocacy efforts for cardiac safety legislation, and the ongoing challenges in raising awareness about cardiac health. Matt shares his inspiration from survivors and emphasizes the need for continued efforts in this critical area.

Takeaways

-Matthew Mangne founded the One-Shot Foundation to honor his son who passed away following Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

-The foundation focuses on AED training and awareness.

-Education is key to preventing sudden cardiac arrest.

-Community involvement is crucial for cardiac health initiatives.

-Legislative advocacy is part of the foundation's mission.

-Survivor stories inspire ongoing efforts in cardiac awareness.

-The foundation hosts events to raise funds and awareness.

-Seasonal training for emergency response is now mandated.

-Collaboration with other organizations enhances impact.

-The fight against sudden cardiac arrest continues with community support.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction

01:44 Honoring Matthew Mangine Jr. 

05:15 One Shot Foundation Mission

07:50 Practicing and Training on Display

08:56 “One Shot” Golf Outing and Birthday Bash

11:55 State Initiatives and Partnerships

15:18 Inspiration for Action and Impact

Helpful Links:  

Matt Mangine, Founder, The Matthew Mangine, Jr “One Shot” Foundation - https://www.oneshot.life/

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation - https://saveheart.life/

When it’s your job to save lives, you’d better be good at it. You need heart and passion, yes. But you also need a good business sense, excellent people skills and the ability to get the job done. Because when a life needs saved, there’s more than just your business name on the line.

In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation interviews Bob Stickel, the founder of Life Savers, Inc., discussing his journey from EMT to entrepreneur, the challenges faced in the AED industry, and the importance of community training in CPR and AED use. 

They explore the paradox of increasing AED placements without a corresponding rise in survival rates, the need for more public access to AEDs, and the future of outdoor AED placements. Bob emphasizes the importance of training and community engagement to save lives and shares insights on the evolving landscape of emergency response.

Takeaways

-Bob Stickel founded Life Savers in 1992 to increase AED accessibility.

-Only a small percentage of cardiac arrest victims receive immediate CPR.

-Community training is essential for increasing survival rates.

-Survival rates for cardiac arrest remain stagnant even though more AED’s are available.

-There is a need for more AEDs in public spaces and homes.

-Training programs in schools can empower others to respond to emergencies.

-Consolidation in the AED industry may hinder local service and support.

-Outdoor AED placements are a new frontier for saving lives.

-Life Savers is committed to providing quality training and support for AED programs.

Chapters

00:20 Introduction to Life Savers and Bob Stickel

01:30 Bob's Journey from EMT to Entrepreneur

04:38 Challenges in the AED Industry

07:01 The Paradox of AED Placement and Survival Rates

10:08 The Importance of Training and Community Engagement

11:51 Addressing Cardiac Arrest in Urban and Rural Areas

13:48 Positive Trends and Technology in AED Use

17:16 The Future of Outdoor AED Placement

19:54 How to Connect with Life Savers

Helpful Links:  

Bob Stickel, Lifesavers Inc.: https://www.lifesaversinc.com/

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

AED's save lives, it's a proven fact. But when they aren't available, or are within reach behind locked doors or inside after hours, they can't do their jobs. Awareness of the need for external AED's and the availability of services to install them is crucial. We're talking about it here, on the SaveHeart Stories podcast.

In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation discusses the critical issue of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) with Chip Georges, President of Marelly AED's and Safety.

They explore the alarming statistics surrounding SCA, the importance of AEDs, and the mission of Marelly Safety in providing life-saving equipment and training. The conversation delves into the origins of Marelly Safety, the challenges faced in raising awareness about AEDs, and the future of AED technology and accessibility. Chip shares success stories and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in saving lives.

Takeaways

-SCA claims almost 400,000 lives annually in the U.S.

-The survival rate for SCA remains around 10%.

-Marelly Safety was founded in 2002 by Chip's father.

-The company started as an AED leasing business.

-Marelly focuses on being an AED program provider, not just a seller.

-Awareness of AED locations is crucial for saving lives.

-Outdoor AED cabinets can significantly increase visibility.

-Education about AEDs is essential for effective use.

-Technological advancements in AEDs are on the horizon.

-Community involvement is key to improving survival rates.

Chapters

00:17 Introduction to The SaveHeart Stories Podcast

03:00 The Origins and Growth of Marelly AED's and Safety

09:39 Challenges in AED Awareness and Education

16:30 Future Trends in AED Technology and Accessibility

22:05 Success Stories and Impact of AEDs

25:28 Calls to Action

Helpful Links:

Chip Gorges at Marelly AED's and Safety: https://www.marelly.com/

Dave Fritzsche at SaveHeart by HeartNation: https://saveheart.life/

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) claims almost 400,000 lives a year, and is the number one natural cause of death in this country. Heart screening can detect unknown abnormalities in youth, and can save lives when they do. But screenings don't happen as much as they should. The MCORE Foundation is working to change that.

In this episode of the Save Heart Stories podcast, host Dave Fritzsche, Founder of SaveHeart by HeartNation, speaks with Lisa Tennenbaum, the executive director and CEO of the MCORE Foundation.

They discuss the alarming statistics surrounding sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the evolution of MCORE Foundation, and the unique offerings it provides in heart health screening. The conversation highlights personal stories, the barriers faced in raising awareness, and the importance of collaboration within the heart health community.

This is an important call to action for increased awareness and proactive measures in heart health.

Takeaways

-SCA claims almost 400,000 lives a year in the U.S.

-MCORE Foundation focuses on youth heart screenings and education.

-National Youth Heart Screening Day aims to raise awareness.

-Heart screenings can detect unknown abnormalities in youth.

-Collaboration among organizations is essential for impact.

-Parents should prioritize cardiac evaluations for their children.

-MCORE Foundation offers high-quality screenings at low costs.

-Changing mindsets about heart health is crucial for prevention.

-Knowledge gained from screenings empowers families.

-Community awareness can lead to better heart health outcomes.

Chapters

00:21 Introduction to Save Heart Stories and SCA Awareness

02:22 National Youth Heart Screening Day and MCORE Foundation's Role

05:36 The Evolution of MCORE Foundation and Its Unique Offerings

10:28 Personal Stories and the Importance of Heart Screenings

13:31 Overcoming Barriers in Heart Screening Awareness

18:35 Collaboration and Partnerships in the Heart Health Community

25:34 Changing Mindsets Around Heart Health and Screening

29:48 Conclusion and Call to Action for Heart Health Awareness

Helpful Links:

Lisa Tennenbaum, MCORE Foundation: https://www.mcorefoundation.org/

Dave Fritzsche, SaveHeart by Heart Nation: https://saveheart.life/

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SaveHeart is an American Company offering Lifesaving AED Access, Awareness & Monitoring Technology for All. We work with leading AED manufacturers, distributors, not-for-profit organizations, and technology providers to prepare & protect people and organizations everywhere from SCA emergencies.

Proudly ‘Made in the USA,’ SaveHeart’s highly visible, alarmed, lighted, temperature controlled and 24x7 monitored AED cabinets provide immediate visibility & access to lifesaving AEDs, Stop the Bleed Kits, Narcan and other emergency supplies, and are ideal for ideal for athletic fields, parks, trails, schools & universities, marinas, business districts - or any locations where people congregate.

In this episode of Save Heart Stories, host Dave Fritzsche, founder of SaveHeart by Heart Nation speaks with Jenny Young, founder of She Did It Videography, about her journey to advocate for the installation of AEDs (automated external defibrillators) in her community.

The conversation highlights the importance of awareness around sudden cardiac arrest, the challenges faced in fundraising and community engagement, and the critical role of education and training in saving lives.

Jenny shares her personal motivation stemming from a moment with her son where he had seen a death happen on live TV and questioned his own safety, and discusses the collaborative efforts with local leaders to ensure safety at sports fields.

The episode emphasizes the power of community action and the impact of local initiatives in addressing health emergencies.

Takeaways

-Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the U.S.

-Personal experiences can drive community advocacy.

-Fundraising requires transparency and consistent communication.

-Community leaders play a crucial role in health initiatives.

-Education on AEDs and CPR is vital for safety.

-Collaboration with local businesses can enhance fundraising efforts.

-Persistent efforts can lead to successful outcomes.

-Social media is a powerful tool for community engagement.

-Connecting people can amplify advocacy efforts.

-Local initiatives can save lives and improve community health.

Helpful Links:

She Did It Videography: https://www.shediditvideo.com/

SaveHeart by Heart Nation: https://saveheart.life/