Best Organdonation Podcasts (2025)

1
Hope, Healing, and Advocacy: A Donor Wife’s Journey 41:22

5M ago41:22

41:22

In this heartfelt episode, host Marion Shuck sits down with Laura Keenan, a nurse and donor wife, to explore the profound experiences of love, loss, and healing through organ and tissue donation. Laura shares her journey with her late husband Jeremiah, their shared advocacy for donation, and how his legacy continues to inspire her work. From naviga…

1
A Decision of Faith (Reshare) 18:10

6M ago18:10

18:10

All major religions in the U.S. support organ donation and view it as the ultimate act of love and generosity. For many people, faith plays an important role in the decision to register as a donor. In celebration of Gift of Hope's Faith and Hope Month, we are rebroadcasting this episode with Michael Zedek, Rabbi Emeritus of Emanuel Congregation, wh…

1
Bridging the gap: Tackling disparities in kidney transplant access 44:00

6M ago44:00

44:00

In this episode, we explore disparities in kidney transplant access, focusing on the underserved and minority communities. With over 90,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant in the U.S., and a significant portion coming from marginalized backgrounds, the barriers to equitable access are both complex and urgent. Join us as Dr. Keith Melancon, a…

1
Triumph Over Tragedy: Robert Chelsea’s Journey as the First Black Face Transplant Recipient 29:26

7M ago29:26

29:26

In this inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Hope, Marion Shuck sits down with Robert Chelsea, the first Black person and the oldest patient to receive a full face transplant. Robert shares his story of survival, resilience, and hope after a devastating car accident caused by a drunk driver left him with severe burns over 60% of his body. He reflects on…

1
Paving the Way (Reshare) 31:47

8M ago31:47

31:47

Ieesha Johnson entered the organ procurement industry more than 15 years ago as a Hospital Services Coordinator and has been supporting the multicultural aspect of organ and tissue donation since. Hear how Ieesha, now the Director of Community Outreach at Infinite Legacy and President of the Association of Multicultural Affairs in Transplantation (…

1
Navigating the Heart: Conversations at Life's Crossroads 38:23

9M ago38:23

38:23

In this episode, we sit down with Emily Dillon, Manager of Donation and Family Advocates at Gift of Hope. Emily shares her experiences working on the front lines of donation, where she helps families find hope and meaning on the most challenging day of their lives. We explore the delicate balance of offering organ donation as a gift, the importance…

1
Living Donation and the Organ Trail 53:36

9M ago53:36

53:36

In this episode, Marion sits down with Mark and Lynn Scotch, avid bikers and remarkable living donors. Mark and Lynn share their inspiring journey from meeting in high school and raising a family to making the life-changing decision to donate their kidneys. They talk through the moment that sparked their decision and the profound impact of becoming…

1
Legacy of Love: Nikki's Heart and Vicki's Advocacy 37:55

10M ago37:55

37:55

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Vicki Walker, a donor mom, who shares her journey of organ and tissue donation. Vicki recounts the tragic loss of her daughter, Nikki, to a drowning accident in 2015 and how it led her to become an advocate for donor families. Remarkably, Vicki was able to perform directed donation, with Nikki's heart goi…

1
A Pride for Advocacy (Reshare) 25:48

10M ago25:48

25:48

Dr. Yvetta Hall was a giver, but had concerns about organ & tissue donation. When she passed away, her wife Shawna was asked to authorize donation on her behalf. Shawna talks about the decision she made, and why she’s become a passionate advocate for donation in minority communities. Originally published June 8, 2022…

1
Community Outreach Program Lead 51:09

11M ago51:09

51:09

In this heartfelt episode, join us as we sit down with Lisa Dodson, a Gift of Hope Community Outreach Program Lead and a cherished friend, as she shares her journey of love, loss, and resilience. Lisa opens up about her late husband, Dan, their serendipitous meeting, and their 31 beautiful years together. She recounts how Dan's courageous battle wi…

1
Navigating Health Equity: Bridging Trust in Donation Conversations 49:39

12M ago49:39

49:39

Delve into the critical intersection of health equity and organ donation with our esteemed guest, Iheoma Okeke Banks. With a background in clinical psychology and focus on advocating equitable healthcare, Iheoma has dedicated her career to ensuring that every individual has access to fair and compassionate medical care. Join us as Iheoma shares her…

1
Courage Over Fear: Dr. Kelley Hitchman's Quest to Normalize Living Donation 55:45

12M ago55:45

55:45

In this episode, Dr. Kelley Hitchman, who works behind the scenes to successfully pair patients with living donors, shares her insights into the world of organ donation. Through her involvement in a three-way paired exchange program and her co-founding of a donor advocacy group for athletes, she emphasizes the importance of dispelling myths and nor…

1
From Grief to Grace: The Transformative Power of Organ Donation 38:54

1y ago38:54

38:54

Hear the journey of a Syreeta, a mother who found solace and purpose amidst unimaginable tragedy. In 2017, her son, Jalen, was tragically killed by a senseless act of violence, leaving her shattered. Amid her grief, Syreeta discovered hope through organ donation. Explore her story of loss and the transformative power of organ donation. Despite the …

1
A New Beat: Kameryn's Heartfelt Journey 45:45

1y ago45:45

45:45

Born with congenital heart disease, Kameryn Raspberry never let it hold her back. From her earliest procedures as an infant to her transplant at age 12, Kameryn’s spirit, and her desire for a normal childhood, were supported by her parents’ love. Hear Kameryn’s story, including the pivotal moment on April 4, 2018, when doctors discussed her slim ch…

1
The Gift of Life: Journey Through Kidney Disease and Friendship 32:10

1y ago32:10

32:10

Imagine receiving a life-changing call from a friend—a call that offers the promise of renewed health. Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Monica Fox, a survivor of kidney disease and recipient of a life-saving transplant whose battle embodies the profound essence of friendship and resilience. In late 2013, Monica's life took a dramatic…

1
Echoes of Hope: Elijah's Musical March and Gardening Journey 32:53

1y ago32:53

32:53

Join us on a journey into the remarkable life of Elijah, a 17-year-old whose passion for music and gardening left an indelible mark. Hear Melissa, Elijah's mother, as she unveils his story, exploring his love for marching band, gardening and kindness. Amidst Elijah's musical pursuits, his connection to nature flourished, starting with sunflowers—a …

1
Gift of Life: A Journey Through Paired Exchange Donations 41:09

1y ago41:09

41:09

In this episode, we're diving into an important and often misunderstood topic: directed donation and paired exchange donations. These procedures involve matching willing donors with compatible recipients, facilitating organ transplants among individuals who may not be compatible with their intended recipients. Join us as we sit down with John Babbi…

1
Driven by Hope 40:21

1y ago40:21

40:21

Diagnosed with a rare autoimmune kidney disease at just 22 years old, Jennifer Cramer-Miller has since undergone four kidney transplants. Now, she uses her platform as Board Chair of the National Kidney Foundation in Minnesota, Donate Life America volunteer and author of Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope to advocate for organ…

1
Generosity Comes Full-circle 32:45

1+ y ago32:45

32:45

Finding out her mother was a registered organ donor upon her passing was no surprise to Taylor Poindexter, “She would give whatever she could.” Months later, her partner would need a stem cell transplant. “You just have to have compassion and that passion to help somebody,” she says reflecting on the gift of donation. Listen to the full story on th…

1
Honoring Your Loved Ones 28:39

1+ y ago28:39

28:39

The holiday season may be a difficult time for those who have lost a loved one. Renata Krzyston, manager of Gift of Hope’s Donor Family Services and a donor family herself, shares different ways you can honor the memory of your loved one during the holidays, and the ongoing support her team offers donor families during the most critical times.…

1
A Selfless Decision 28:21

1+ y ago28:21

28:21

“On Christmas Eve, I got a letter from a tissue recipient...he would not be able to walk again without her," says Jaquel as she talks about her daughter DeNae, a young athlete who left a legacy as an organ & tissue donor. Listen to Jaquel’s story of navigating loss and finding hope and healing on this episode of Let’s Talk Hope.…

1
Changing the Narrative 39:42

1+ y ago39:42

39:42

Kidney disease is one of the leading causes for kidney failure and the need for transplant, and is especially prevalent in communities of color. State Senator Mattie Hunter and Nephrologist Dr. Kalyani Perumal—who both witnessed family members struggling with kidney disease—are members of the Kidney Disease Prevention and Education Task Force. Crea…

1
Getting Into Good Trouble 46:27

1+ y ago46:27

46:27

“When I found out that no one in this country believed that an impact could be made and that we could change minds, I took it to heart.” On this episode of Let’s Talk Hope, Jack Lynch, former Senior Advisor at Gift of Hope, reflects on his triumphant 35-year career in the field of organ & tissue donation, and how “getting into good trouble” led him…

1
It Takes a Village 33:21

1+ y ago33:21

33:21

For two-and-a-half years Alicia Stewart wasn’t able to work or take care of her son. She was undergoing kidney dialysis due to complications caused by Type 1 diabetes. This double transplant recipient shares how she overcame her own misconceptions about donation to become an organ & tissue donation advocate, and her experience connecting with her d…

1
Our Favorite Stories 25:08

1+ y ago25:08

25:08

The most inspiring conversations of 2022 are brought together for one powerful episode. Hear from transplant recipients and families of organ & tissue donors about their life changing experiences with donation. Stay tuned for a new season of Let’s Talk Hope starting on October 25, 2023.By Gift of Hope

1
To Serve, Protect and Save Lives (reshare) 20:23

1+ y ago20:23

20:23

Christine Ho received the call one day that any wife dreads: Her husband was in an accident. Hear what happens next as Chicago Police Officer Jonathan Ho ultimately saves lives, through the family’s experience with organ and tissue donation.By Gift of Hope

1
Family, Faith, and a Pair of Roller Skates (reshare) 23:31

1+ y ago23:31

23:31

Police officer Mark wondered if he’d ever be able to roller skate again. He’d waited for a liver transplant for nearly a decade. With less than three days left to live Mark received a life-saving donation. Now, he reflects on his journey to health and shares his story to help spread awareness about organ donation among minority communities.…

1
One to 100 (reshare) 26:03

1+ y ago26:03

26:03

When Police Officer Tommy Butts needed a kidney transplant, his wife Sarah took to social media to find a donor. It didn’t come in time for Tommy. But Sarah’s outreach motivated a state trooper hundreds of miles away to become a donor. She inspired one person—now she wants to inspire 100. Sarah shares what it was like through Tommy’s diagnosis and …

1
Taking Charge 23:34

2+ y ago23:34

23:34

“I’m not gonna live the rest of my life like this.” Debilitating back pain plagued Chicago CEO Tiffany Mathis for years, until spinal surgery using a donor’s bone tissue. She talks about how she took charge of her care to get there, the challenges facing Black and Brown communities, and the need to talk more about organ and tissue donation.…

1
One to 100 26:03

2+ y ago26:03

26:03

When Police Officer Tommy Butts needed a kidney transplant, his wife Sarah took to social media to find a donor. It didn’t come in time for Tommy. But Sarah’s outreach motivated a state trooper hundreds of miles away to become a donor. She inspired one person—now she wants to inspire 100. Sarah shares what it was like through Tommy’s diagnosis and …

1
Coming Full Circle 34:34

2+ y ago34:34

34:34

A minor car accident forced Daru Smith to get an in-depth medical exam. The exam uncovered critical health problems that ultimately led to an almost unbelievable situation: Daru needed a new heart, a new kidney and a new liver.By Gift of Hope

1
Keep Moving Forward 30:53

2+ y ago30:53

30:53

When it comes to grief, everyone follows their own timeline. After years of grieving their son’s loss following a tragic accident, John Beach found solace in attending the 2022 Transplant Games in San Diego. On this episode, listen to John and Joy Beach talk about the meaning that organ & tissue donation brought to their lives after their son John …

1
Brain Donation: It Just Made Sense 37:57

2+ y ago37:57

37:57

“My dad was a real practical guy. He wanted to be as useful and helpful as he could.” When Tish Hevel’s father died from dementia, his brain was donated for science. Since then, Tish and her sister have worked to educate people about brain donation and to simplify the process.By Gift of Hope

1
Family, Faith, and a Pair of Roller Skates 23:31

2+ y ago23:31

23:31

Police officer Mark wondered if he’d ever be able to roller skate again. He’d waited for a liver transplant for nearly a decade. With less than three days left to live Mark received a life-saving donation. Now, he reflects on his journey to health and shares his story to help spread awareness about organ donation among minority communities.…

1
Una Segunda Oportunidad de Vida (A Second Chance at Life) – En Español 29:39

2+ y ago29:39

29:39

Rocío Muñoz tenía una enfermedad renal tan grave que en pocos años acumuló 76 visitas a la sala de emergencias y 13 cirugías. Su situación se volvió tan severa que la unica esperanza para ella era recibir un trasplante de riñon. Una Navidad recibieron una llamada diciendo que habian encontrado un riñon compatible, y ella y su esposo Gerardo Huerta …

1
Beating the Odds 37:52

2+ y ago37:52

37:52

A former bodybuilder, Phil Hanks is a grateful recipient of six transplanted organs. He has lived through cancer, hepatitis C, diabetes and kidney failure. Phil credits his faith, his wife, and his organ donors for this second chance at life. Listen to Phil's story, and his perspective on taking care of yourself and having hope, on Let’s Talk Hope.…

1
Cadena de Favores (Paying it Forward) – En Español 26:31

2+ y ago26:31

26:31

Cuando Miguel López murió de un aneurisma cerebral a los 42 años, su esposa y sus dos hijas se enteraron de la oportunidad de donar órganos y tejidos y pensaron que no habría mejor manera de honrar la vida de Miguel y su generosidad. Escuche a Patty López compartir la historia de su padre en este episodio de Hablemos de la esperanza. After 42-year-…

1
A New Heart Beats, Bringing New Hope 26:25

2+ y ago26:25

26:25

“I could feel my heart beating in my chest again.” After receiving a heart and kidney transplant, Harry now spreads hope to people facing health problems like he once did. Listen to Harry tell his story, and the advice he gives others about staying healthy.By Gift of Hope

1
Life-saving Donation Inspires Music and Healing 35:00

3y ago35:00

35:00

Paul Cardall was born with half of a heart and given only a year to live. Today, he is a transplant recipient and Dove Award-winning pianist known by audiences around the world. Paul began playing piano to heal himself, but the story of his heart transplant, his donor and the way he inspires others is as moving as the songs he writes.…

1
Treasures Are Meant to be Shared 35:22

3y ago35:22

35:22

It was only a cough. When Pastor Joseph Kyles saw a doctor about his cough, he was shocked to learn that he would need a double lung transplant. He was fortunate. The call came in time with news that a lung donor was available to save his life. Today, Pastor Kyles’ donated lungs are like treasures that help him enrich the church and community he se…

1
Wait a Minute: Tissue Donation? 20:04

3y ago20:04

20:04

After spinal surgery, John Kachanuk learned that donated tissue was the key to his new pain-free life. Now he’s on a mission to honor his donors and advocate for tissue donation. Hear John describe how, for him, tissue donation was not just life-enhancing—it’s been life-changing.By Gift of Hope

1
A Small Life, A Big Legacy 25:47

3y ago25:47

25:47

After her baby Riley died at 3 months old, Autumn and her family chose organ donation to help heal others. What they didn’t expect was how much Riley’s life-giving legacy would heal them.By Gift of Hope

1
To Serve, Protect and Save Lives 20:23

3y ago20:23

20:23

Christine Ho received the call one day that any wife dreads: Her husband was in an accident. Hear what happens next as Chicago Police Officer Jonathan Ho ultimately saves lives, through the family’s experience with organ and tissue donation.By Gift of Hope

1
Paying Donation Forward 26:12

3y ago26:12

26:12

After Laurie Lee’s dad was saved by a liver transplant, she chose to donate her kidney to a stranger. She wanted to repay the gift that her family was given and set off a chain of donations that saved six people waiting for transplants. From Laurie’s perspective, it was a beautiful way to honor the organ donor who saved her father’s life.…

1
Life Imitates Science 31:51

3y ago31:51

31:51

After Kimberly Johnson received a lifesaving transplant, she wrote a letter to her donor’s family. She heard back six months later, and what she learned about her donor amazed her. What they share goes far beyond the kidney Kimberly received. You hear people say that life imitates art. In this case, life imitates science—the science of donation.…

1
On the Waiting List (reshare) 13:49

3y ago13:49

13:49

One of the most challenging parts of the donation process is the wait for a transplant. Laura Barajas reflects on receiving her brother’s kidney, and what her current wait is like. Plus, former United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) public relations director Lisa Schaffner explains how the national waiting list operates.…

1
Hope is Hope in Any Language (reshare) 31:42

3y ago31:42

31:42

Sometimes life and death decisions hinge upon knowing when and where to go to get life saving tissue or organ transplants and how to get help paying for them. With language and cultural barriers, it's even more difficult. Two remarkable women are helping to provide this service for many of our Latino communities in need. They are Catalina Ramos-Her…

1
The Tissue Decision (reshare) 28:34

3y ago28:34

28:34

Making the decision to donate a loved one’s organs is never easy, even when you work for an organ procurement organization. Shaun Martin, Director of Tissue Recovery at Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network had to make that decision when his son Matthew passed away in 2020 at the age of 15. The Martin family decided to give the the life enhan…

1
A Lasting Legacy (reshare) 38:08

3y ago38:08

38:08

Let's Talk Hope podcast host Marion Shuck was recently interviewed about her work with the organization by Monica Fox, podcast host of The Journey Continues. Through her work at Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network, Marion helped countless families make the powerful decision to donate their loved ones’ tissue and organs. When her husband of 33…

1
The Best Of 22:41

3+ y ago22:41

22:41

Let’s Talk Hope has put together a compilation of inspiring stories from our best podcast guests sharing their journey and connection to organ, eye and tissue donation.By Gift of Hope

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Organdonation Podcasts

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