This episode I sit down with Vesta Hurlbutt, a cardiac cath lab x-ray tech, functional nutritionist, and host of the Open Heart Healing podcast. This conversation becomes a unique blend of medical insight and personal storytelling, centered around Myocardial Bridges and the power of advocacy—both in the hospital and in life.

Vesta offers behind-the-scenes perspective on what happens inside the cath lab, what patients should expect, and why self-advocacy is critical in a system that often overlooks certain heart conditions—especially in women. She also shares how her own healing journey led her to launch Open Heart Healing, a podcast about emotional transformation, self-love, and reclaiming personal power.

We'll also explore how their chance connection at a podcast convention turned into a powerful reminder that there are no coincidences—just timely, even serendipitous conversations waiting to happen.

IN THIS EPISODE:

-What really happens in the cardiac cath lab

-How myocardial bridges are identified ( and often dismissed)

-The importance of IVUS and other imaging tools

-Tips for patients prepping for a heart cath

-Vesta's journey from healthcare worker to holistic healing advocate

You can learn more about Vesta:

-Host: Open Heart Healing Podcast

-Email: vesta@vitalitywithvesta.com

-Instagram: @openhearthealing

Chapter Timestamps

(00:00) Myocardial Bridge and Heart Health

(13:42) Cardiologists Discuss Heart Bridges

(18:39) Advocating for Heart Health Awareness

(22:32) Healing Through Holistic Health Perspectives

(31:01) Journey to Heart Health

Order Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges - Available on Amazon

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If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.