The Heart of Innovation

In this episode of The Heart of Innovation with hosts Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips, we are kicking off PAD Awareness Month to raise awareness of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a disease more prevalent and deadlier than most cancers combined. Leg pain, leg cramps, and neuropathy are all indications of poor circulation that could signal PAD.

We begin our celebration with the first of 40 Global PAD Impact Awards, honoring the most impactful contributors in the space. The Global PAD Association proudly recognizes “Amputation Nation” by Even Keel Productions with this year’s Best PAD Awareness Video Award!

Producers Chris Wooley and Wayne Dickmann have created a powerful visual narrative that exposes the hidden epidemic of preventable amputations in America. Through compelling storytelling and expert testimonials, their documentary shines a crucial light on peripheral artery disease and its devastating consequences when left undiagnosed or undertreated.

“Amputation Nation” stands out for its emotional impact, educational clarity, and exceptional production quality—inspiring viewers to recognize symptoms early and seek proper vascular evaluation before amputation becomes the only option.

To watch this episode later, and actually see the award-winning video, go to YouTube.com/TheWayToMyHeart. If you think you have symptoms of PAD and need to talk to someone and/or find advanced care in your area, call the Global PAD Association’s Leg Saver’s Hotline at 1-833-PAD-LEGS or go to padsupportgroup.org.

#PADImpactAwards #AmputationNation #PADawareness #PreventableAmputations #padsupport #padgroup #peripheralarterydisease #TheHeartOfInnovation #PADAwarenessMonth #padsupportgroup #padgroup #bestpadvideo

Don't miss this week's "Heart of Innovation" podcast as hosts Kym McNicholas (Global PAD Association CEO) and Dr. John Phillips (Interventional Cardiologist) welcome an extraordinary guest - Dr. Kevin Morgan (PhD)!

At 82, Dr. Morgan isn't just surviving with Peripheral Artery Disease—he's THRIVING as a competitive triathlete, recently placing 3rd in his age group at the 2023 World Ironman Championships!

His new book "Peripheral Artery Disease Training Plan For PAD Heroes: From Amputees to Athletes" reveals the 14-week training program that's kept him competing despite 100% blockage in his right popliteal artery.

🔹 Learn about his evidence-based approach featuring 33 instructional videos 🔹 Discover why grieving your diagnosis is the crucial first step to recovery 🔹 Get details about our exciting "30 Days to 5K Challenge" launching this September for PAD Awareness Month!

Walking is truly medicine for PAD, creating natural bypasses around blockages. Dr. Morgan will show you how to make this medicine work better with proper techniques and motivation.

Join us live and bring your questions! Then sign up for our challenge at padwalkinggroup.org (with your doctor's approval).

#PADAwareness #HeartOfInnovation #CollateralNation #WalkingIsMedicine #peripheralarterydisease #peripheralarterydiseasegroup 

In this episode, host Kym McNicholas and guest co-host Dr. Michael "Misha" Ginsburg" entertain a discussion on innovative treatments for hand and wrist osteoarthritis, featuring both embolization and orthopedic perspectives.

Dr. Yuji Okuno, founder of the Okuno Clinic and pioneer of the “Okuno Method,” will share insights on his groundbreaking approach to treating osteoarthritis pain. Since first reporting his technique in 2012, Dr. Okuno has transformed arthritis management by targeting abnormal blood vessels in pain-producing tissues rather than using conventional approaches. The Okuno Method stands out for its ability to address the root cause of osteoarthritis pain with minimal recurrence, normal tissue repair, and no restrictions on daily activities post-procedure.

Dr. Assaf Kadar brings the orthopedic surgeon’s perspective to the conversation. As a clinical and academic leader in hand and wrist biomechanics at the HULC bioengineering lab, Dr. Kadar specializes in developing new suspensionplasty hand and digit devices. He’ll provide an overview of the orthopedic approach to hand osteoarthritis and discuss the potential role of hand embolization in the treatment spectrum.

 This episode offers a rare opportunity to explore both interventional and surgical approaches to hand osteoarthritis treatment.

Blood Work Decoded: Understanding the "Why" Behind Heart Disease and PAD

Saturday LIVE on "The Heart of Innovation," Global PAD Association CEO Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips welcome vascular surgeon Dr. Lily Johnston from Scripps La Jolla in California to discuss the root causes of peripheral artery disease and heart conditions.

Dr. Johnston brings her extensive background (Princeton, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins) to explore how advanced blood work can reveal underlying issues that traditional approaches might miss. She'll decode:

• What your lipid panel actually means for your vascular health • Key blood cell markers everyone should understand • Why anemia frequently accompanies cardiovascular conditions • Which specialized tests to discuss with your doctor

As founder of the Vascular Health Institute, Dr. Johnston takes a metabolic approach to vascular disease, focusing on prevention and addressing underlying causes rather than just managing symptoms.

Have questions about PAD diagnosis, treatment options, or prevention strategies? Drop them below or bring them to our live conversation.

#peripheralarterydisease #vascularmedicine #preventivehealth #cardiovascularhealth #peripheralarterydisease #padsupport #heartdisease

Ever wonder what it’s like to search the ENTIRE country for the right doctor while dealing with excruciating leg pain and diabetes that won’t quit? Our guest Pat is sharing his wild journey finding help for his advanced Peripheral Artery Disease and Type 2 Diabetes.

Pat was determined not to let PAD stop him from traveling and living life on his terms. He’ll reveal how the Global PAD Association’s leg saver hotline and our very own podcast became his roadmap through the medical maze!

You’ll learn: • The surprising differences between vascular medicine specialists, vascular surgeons, interventional cardiologists, and interventional radiologists • Red flags that told Pat when a doctor WASN’T right for his case • The critical questions every PAD patient should ask before treatment

Plus, there’s a MAJOR PLOT TWIST about which doctor Pat ultimately chose (hint: it’s someone pretttty familiar to our listeners 😉)

If you or someone you love is dealing with leg pain, circulation issues, or diabetes complications, this episode is a must-listen!

Remember: The Global PAD Association is always just a call away at 1-833-PAD-LEGS for anyone needing guidance.

Hosts Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips talks with world renowned diabetes reversal and vascular expert Dr. Michael Dansinger about a connection most men never consider - what sperm health reveals about heart disease risk and risk of other chronic illnesses Turns out male reproductive issues might be your body's early warning system for cardiovascular problems as well as other chronic health issues. Dr. Dansinger breaks down the science behind this unexpected link and what it means for preventive care. Not the conversation you expected from The Heart of Innovation, but possibly one of our most important.  

This Week on The Heart of Innovation, Hosts Kym McNicholas and Dr. Phillips talk to Mike, who's sharing his journey with peripheral artery disease (PAD), poor circulation in mainly the legs due to artery blockages. After watching his mom lose her leg to PAD, Mike's now facing the same diagnosis himself. He's making serious lifestyle changes - improving his diet, quitting smoking, and adding regular exercise to his routine - all in hopes of improving his circulation naturally. What makes this episode special is how Mike connects his mother's experience to his own determination. He's learned there's a lot patients can do alongside medical treatment, and he wants to share these practical steps with others who might be in the same position. If you or someone you care about is dealing with circulation issues, this conversation offers real insight from someone who's living it day by day. Also, always reach out to the Global PAD Association's Leg Saver Hotline at 1-833-PAD-LEGS or go to PADhelp.org to connect with a PAD Navigator to discuss symptoms, find an advanced skilled doctor, and learn the lifestyle modifications you need to improve your prognosis.  Don't miss this honest look at fighting for your health when PAD hits close to home.

This week, we're tackling a critical health crisis affecting millions in India - Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Join us as hosts Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips talk with the visionary father-daughter duo behind iiV Health Systems, Alfred and Pooja Arambhan! With diabetes rates soaring in India, PAD has become a silent epidemic leading to devastating complications including amputations. The Arambhans have groundbreaking PAD testing technology that's changing the game for early detection and treatment. Their journey from concept to market hasn't been easy, but their innovation is now saving limbs and lives! Discover how their technology is revolutionizing vascular care in a region where nearly 77% of patients with PAD also have diabetes. #HeartOfInnovation #PADAwareness #MedTech #HealthcareInnovation #peripheralarterydisease #vascular #padtesting

Five years ago, Jose joined our Global PAD Association Facebook group with a simple question: “What does everyone do when your feet get cold?” What followed was an extraordinary journey of resilience and determination.

At nearly 700 pounds, Jose was suffering from severe peripheral vascular disease affecting both his arteries and veins. His symptoms were alarming - cold feet, swollen legs, wounds that wouldn’t heal, and even toenails falling off. Doctors couldn’t help until he lost weight.

Through the support of our community and a complete nutrition overhaul, Jose lost over 300 POUNDS WITHOUT surgery or medication! Today, his A1C has dropped from 9+ to a healthy 5.1, his blood pressure is normal, and he’s experiencing healing in areas where blood flow had been severely restricted.

“Don’t give up on yourself,” Jose shares. “If you’re alive and breathing, there’s still a chance for your situation to get better.”

Watch his full interview to hear how he transformed his health, saved his legs, and reclaimed his life for himself and his family. This is why our PAD community exists at www.PADsupportGroup.org - You can also call the Global PAD Association's Leg Saver Hotline to learn more at 1-833-PAD-LEGS ! ❤️

#PADWarrior #PeripheralVascularDisease #WeightLossJourney #SaveYourLegs #DiabetesRemission #GlobalPAD #HealthTransformation #peripheralarterydisease #padsupport #padsupportgroup

Can't walk because of knee pain? This could save your legs AND your knees! Join hosts Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips as they interview interventional cardiologist Dr. Sid Rao about Genicular Arterial Embolization (GAE) – a groundbreaking minimally-invasive procedure targeting the root cause of osteoarthritis knee pain. What makes GAE revolutionary: • Performed through a tiny nick in the skin • Targets inflamed blood vessels feeding the painful knee • Can provide significant pain relief without major surgery • Potentially delays or eliminates the need for knee replacement • Quick recovery compared to surgical alternatives This innovation is especially crucial for peripheral artery disease (PAD) patients caught in a dangerous cycle: They need to walk to improve circulation and grow natural bypasses around blocked arteries, but knee arthritis pain prevents them from this essential exercise. Dr. Rao will explain how this procedure works, who's an ideal candidate, and how it could be a game-changer for maintaining mobility and independence. ] #KneePain #PAD #ArterialDisease #MinimallyInvasive #WalkForHealth #InnovativeMedicine #VascularHealth

In El Salvador, where diabetes affects approximately 12.5% of the adult population, vascular surgeons like Dr. Fernando Javier Martínez Irigoyen face a daily battle against limb loss due to peripheral artery disease (PAD).

While specific amputation statistics for El Salvador are limited, the reality in developing nations is sobering: • Patients in low-resource settings often present with advanced disease due to limited healthcare access • Treatment options for PAD are significantly constrained by availability of specialized equipment • Geographic and socioeconomic barriers can delay critical interventions that could save limbs

Join us on the next episode of "The Heart of Innovation" as host Kym McNicholas and special co-host vascular technician Jill Sommerset interview Dr. Fernando Javier Martínez Irigoyen about:

✦ The unique challenges of practicing vascular surgery in El Salvador ✦ His fight to introduce cutting-edge treatments despite resource limitations ✦ The devastating impact of preventable amputations on patients' lives ✦ Innovative approaches to limb salvage in resource-constrained settings

This conversation highlights a global health disparity that receives too little attention. Learn how dedicated medical professionals are working to change outcomes for patients at risk of limb loss in developing nations.

- Don't miss this important discussion on saving limbs and lives! #LimbSalvage #VascularCare #GlobalHealth #ElSalvador #TheHeartOfInnovation

Remember when Coach Prime Deion Sanders nearly lost his legs due to below-knee blockages?  Many patients with severe poor circulation in their legs known as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) face the same “revolving door” of treatments with limited options… until now.  Watch “The Heart of Innovation” as Dr. Jay Matthews, the lead Principal Investigator behind the groundbreaking DEEPER REVEAL trial talks about a technology that just changed the game for peripheral artery disease treatment!  Dr. Matthews will reveal how Reflow Medical’s breakthrough technology called "SPUR" —a temporary stent that achieves impressive early results—is offering new hope for patients suffering from debilitating leg cramps, pain, and neuropathy.  This FDA-cleared innovation specifically targets those challenging below-knee arteries—long considered the “Achilles heel” for vascular specialists—and could be life-changing for patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease who suffer most from these difficult-to-treat blockages.  The DEEPER REVEAL clinical trial demonstrated a remarkable 99.2% technical success rate with this novel approach that leaves no metal behind! Don’t miss this episode that could literally help save limbs and transform lives! If you have peripheral artery disease and have questions about treatment options, call the Global PAD Association's Leg Saver Hotline at 1-833-PAD-LEGS or go to PADhelp.org #MedicalBreakthrough #PADawareness #HeartOfInnovation #peripheralarterydisease #removablestent #retractablestent #reflowmedical #padtreatment #blockedarterytreatment #blockedarteries #stents #peripheralvasculardisease #padsupport #padsupportgroup #healthinnovation

Join us for a wildly entertaining and informative interview with renowned podiatrist Dr. David Alper as he shares the most jaw-dropping foot care mishaps he's encountered throughout his distinguished 30+ year career! Dr. Alper, who recently retired from his private practice in Belmont, MA, brings a wealth of experience as Emeritus Surgical staff at Harvard's Mt. Auburn Hospital and a member of the Board of Trustees of the American Podiatric Medical Association. His leadership extends beyond clinical practice—he served as President of the American Diabetes Association's New England Leadership Board for over 20 years and chaired the Belmont Board of Health for three decades. In today's interview, Dr. Alper takes us behind the scenes with stories that will make you laugh, cringe, and maybe even think twice about your summer footwear choices! From flip-flop disasters to beach glass emergencies, and patients who arrived at his clinic with situations you won't believe until you hear them. Whether you're planning a beach vacation or simply want to protect your feet this summer, you won't want to miss Dr. Alper's expert advice wrapped in these cautionary (and sometimes hilarious) tales from the frontlines of podiatric medicine. #FootHealth #SummerSafety #PodiatryStories #DrDavidAlper #BeachSafety #FootcareExpert

Join hosts Kym McNicholas, Emmy Award-winning journalist and CEO of Global PAD Association, and Dr. John Phillips, Interventional Cardiologist, as they welcome Dr. David Alper, podiatrist, to discuss critical summer foot health issues. In this episode, Dr. Alper shares entertaining stories about the biggest foot follies that occur during summer—from beach mishaps to BBQ blunders. But the conversation takes a serious turn as he reveals the hidden summer dangers for people with diabetes and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Learn essential strategies to protect vulnerable feet and prevent wounds that could lead to amputation. Dr. Alper brings decades of expertise as Emeritus Surgical staff at Harvard's Mt. Auburn Hospital and former Board of Trustees member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. His impressive background includes serving as President of the American Diabetes Association's New England Leadership Board for over 20 years and chairing the Belmont Board of Health for three decades. Whether you're concerned about your own foot health or caring for someone with circulation issues, this episode delivers valuable information that could help save limbs and lives this summer season. #FootHealth #DiabetesCare #PADAwareness #SummerSafety #HeartOfInnovation #peripheralarterydisease #padtreatment #diabetesfootcare #diabeticfoot #padsupportgroup #legcramps #legpaintreatment

When Jae’s mother faced amputation due to Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) an advanced stage of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) in rural Louisiana, she refused to accept it as the only option. Despite being told there were no alternatives, Jae discovered the truth: not all PAD specialists have the skills to treat advanced cases.

This episode comes at a crucial time. A May 2025 study from @SCAI reveals Black patients with CLI face a 46% higher chance of amputation and are 10% less likely to see vascular specialists before treatment.

CLI is more deadly than breast, colon, and prostate cancer COMBINED—and outcomes worsen dramatically after amputation.

Listen as Jae shares how she: • Fought against medical gaslighting • Found help through the @GlobalPADAssociation’s Leg Saver Hotline (1-833-PAD-LEGS) • Connected with CLI specialist Dr. Amit Amin who successfully opened her mother’s arteries

This story could save someone’s leg—or life. Share widely.

#SaveALeg #PADAwareness #HealthcareEquity #CLI #PeripheralArteryDisease #PatientAdvocacy

This Saturday on The Heart of Innovation, Emmy Award-winning Journalist Kym McNicholas and Interventional Cardiologist Dr. John Phillips welcome James Maskell to discuss TruNeura, founded by Dr. Kristine Burke, to pioneer personalized medicine for Alzheimer's and dementia.

Inspired by innovative treatments that helped his own father, Maskell will share how TruNeura's precision medicine approach is creating new possibilities for patients with cognitive decline.

The conversation will explore how vascular health impacts brain function, with special attention to how arterial buildup restricts critical blood flow to the brain.

Get an exclusive preview of the upcoming Alzheimer's Summit starting Tuesday, where experts will gather to discuss the latest advances in cognitive health. While challenging, these new approaches offer hope for many families.

Join us for this important conversation and visit truneura.com to learn more about the company and drtalks.com/summit/alzheimers for summit information.

#AlzheimersResearch #PrecisionMedicine #CognitiveHealth #peripheralarterydisease #padsupport #globalpadassociation #theheartofinnovation

Join us on "The Heart of Innovation" as hosts Kym McNicholas (Global PAD Association CEO) and Dr. John Phillips (Interventional Cardiologist) interview Silicon Valley entrepreneurial powerhouse Robert Nathanson! From spotting healthcare gaps as a chiropractor to co-founding GrubMarket (now a $3.6 billion + company), Robert's journey exemplifies innovation at its finest. After his early success connecting farmers directly to consumers through a digital marketplace, Robert's life took an unexpected turn when he faced his own health crisis - blocked arteries requiring medical intervention. This wake-up call prompted a complete lifestyle transformation. Despite always being active with tennis, Robert doubled down on his health, embracing pickleball with incredible success (13 podium finishes with 5 gold medals in just 8 months)! Discover how Robert's background in healthcare, entrepreneurial mindset, and personal health journey have shaped his unique perspective on innovation and wellness. He'll share insights on: • Translating healthcare gaps into business opportunities • Building and scaling successful ventures • Navigating life-threatening health challenges • Transforming his diet and fitness approach • Finding unexpected joy in health recovery This episode perfectly embodies our show's mission: highlighting innovations that transform cardiovascular health and inspire others on their wellness journeys. Don't miss this powerful conversation! #TheHeartOfInnovation #HealthEntrepreneurship #CardiovascularHealth #WellnessJourney #GlobalPADAssociation #robertnathanson #siliconvalley #healthcareinnovation #healthinnovation #healthtech #healthinnovation #peripheralarterydisease #heartdisease #hearthealth

Join us on "The Heart of Innovation" as we welcome Albert Chen, a visionary bioelectric energy specialist. Albert will unveil his organization's three revolutionary branches:

1️⃣ Bios Vitalium: A cutting-edge healing energy practice 2️⃣ BioSingularity Institute: A 501(c)(3) research foundation conducting clinical studies on bioelectric energy healing 3️⃣ BioDavinci: Focused on therapeutics and drug development for regenerative healing

Albert and his team are at the forefront of reverse-engineering bioelectric energy healing techniques to develop scalable therapeutics. Their groundbreaking work even explores how bioelectricity can potentially regenerate the gut lining, addressing issues caused by stress and other factors.

Don't miss this fascinating discussion on the intersection of bioelectric energy healing, scientific research, and therapeutics development. Tune in to learn how these innovations could shape the future of healthcare!

#BioelectricEnergy #RegenerativeMedicine #HealthInnovation #TheHeartOfInnovation #peripheralarterydisease #globalpadassociation #albertchen

Join us for an exclusive interview with Dr. Robert Gabbay, endocrinologist and former chief medical officer of the American Diabetes Association, on "The Heart of Innovation" hosted by Dr. John Phillips and Emmy-award-winning journalist Kym McNicholas. Dr. Gabbay will share cutting-edge developments in diabetes care that go beyond just lowering A1C—they're revolutionizing heart health, kidney function, and mobility for patients! He answers questions about: - Game-changing medications that reduce heart attack risk AND help you walk farther - The latest insulin pump technology transforming daily management - Advanced diabetes screening methods catching the disease earlier than ever - How AI digital twins can visualize the impact of lifestyle changes before you make them This is your chance to learn from a leading expert who has been at the forefront of innovations in treatment options for patients with diabetes and obesity. #DiabetesInnovation #HeartHealth #TheHeartOfInnovation #GlobalPADassociation #peripheralarterydisease #diabetescure #diabetestreatment #padsupport #legcramps #legpaintreatment