The Beat podcast
Season 2
Trailer
The Beat, hosted by Caroline Lavallée, is back with more stories of people touched by heart disease and stroke, and insights from world-leading experts. Subscribe to stay informed, get inspired and rediscover hope. (1:49)
Episode 1: What’s putting women at risk?
Heart disease and stroke affect women differently from men. Listen as we trace the impact of a woman’s life stages, and how they make her more vulnerable at different times. (21:04)
Episode 2: Confronting the silent killer
With no signs or symptoms, high blood pressure can easily go undiagnosed. And that’s dangerous because it’s the #1 risk factor for stroke and a major risk factor for heart disease. (18:23)
Episode 3: The life-saving power of an AED
When someone’s heart suddenly stops, you can help save them. The combination of hands-only CPR and an AED can double their chance of surviving. (20:19)
Episode 4: Kids under pressure: When a parent falls ill
Stephan was only seven when his mother had a devastating stroke. Hear his story of loss and perseverance, and learn what really helps a child in the face of such challenges. (17:37)
Episode 5: Ask a cardiologist: Expert answers to your questions
When it comes to heart health, there are lots of questions. Dr. Ratika Parkash provides answers, from heart attack symptoms to risk factors and more. (16:53)
Episode 6: The surprising heart-brain connection
Kelly’s strokes were caused by an undiagnosed heart condition. Learn how your heart and brain are linked and what this means for the healthcare system. (15:52)
Episode 7: Indigenous experience, heart disease and stroke
Lynne’s high blood pressure went largely untreated. Then she had a stroke. Too many Indigenous people, like Lynne, don’t get the care they need for cardiovascular health. (21:51)
Episode 8: Women, stroke and mental health
After a stroke, Lisa had to work hard to overcome mental health challenges. She’s not alone, as stroke impacts women disproportionately. (21:09)
Season 1
Trailer
The Beat, hosted by Caroline Lavallée, bridges cutting-edge science with the realities of living with heart disease and stroke. Listen to stay informed, get inspired and rediscover hope. (1:33)
Episode 1: How to heal a failing heart
Each year, 100,000 Canadians are diagnosed with heart failure. Learn what it means to live with heart failure, and how researchers are racing to save lives. (22:55)
Episode 2: We can save more women
In Canada, the number one cause of premature death in women is heart disease and stroke. Learn how research holds the key to changing this. (25:46)
Episode 3: The sacrifice and satisfaction of family caregiving
To meet the needs of a loved one living with heart disease or stroke, it’s critical to take care of yourself too. Hear from caregivers and an expert on the realities and how to find balance. (25:36)
Episode 4: When a heart stops, you can help
When someone collapses in cardiac arrest, their best chance of survival comes from the closest person. (20:26)
Episode 5: Heart disease: Expert answers to common questions
Heart disease can affect anyone of any age, gender, lifestyle or background. Get the facts on how to protect yourself. (20:47)
Episode 6: The pandemic’s impact on heart and stroke care
As hospitals and healthcare providers shifted their focus to COVID-19, what have been the consequences for people living with heart disease and stroke? (23:44)
Episode 7: Heart disease, stroke and your mental health
After a heart attack or stroke, many people experience depression, anxiety and other serious mental health impacts. Learn what it feels like and how to manage these challenges. (22:32)
Episode 8: Stroke explained
Recent breakthroughs have dramatically improved outcomes from stroke. But how much do you know about stroke? Get the facts on signs, risk factors, treatment and recovery. (24:24)
Bonus French episode: Ensemble, combattons pour sauver plus de femmes
Les maladies du cœur et l’AVC sont la première cause de décès prématuré chez les femmes au pays. Apprenez comment la recherche et la prévention peuvent changer les choses. (38:08)
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Meet our host
Caroline Lavallée, Heart & Stroke volunteer and board member
Caroline is a communications strategist and a volunteer spokesperson and board member for Heart & Stroke. She co-chairs the National Committee for Women’s Heart and Brain Health. Learn more about Caroline and her journey with heart disease.