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This Thing Called Life

Health & Wellness Podcasts

This Thing Called Life is a podcast dedicated to acts of giving, kindness, compassion, and humanity. Host Andi Johnson introduces you to powerful organ, tissue, and eye donation stories from individuals, families, and front-line healthcare teams. These stories are meant to inspire and remind you that while life can be challenging and unpredictable, it’s also incredibly beautiful. We hope this podcast inspires you to connect with our life-saving and life-healing mission.

Location:

United States

Description:

This Thing Called Life is a podcast dedicated to acts of giving, kindness, compassion, and humanity. Host Andi Johnson introduces you to powerful organ, tissue, and eye donation stories from individuals, families, and front-line healthcare teams. These stories are meant to inspire and remind you that while life can be challenging and unpredictable, it’s also incredibly beautiful. We hope this podcast inspires you to connect with our life-saving and life-healing mission.

Language:

English


Episodes
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EP 103: Tis The Season Of Giving

12/13/2024
Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ, eye and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Don Juan from 100.3 FM Cincy's R&B station in Cincinnati. Resources https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO

Duration:00:04:37

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EP 102: How Organ, Tissue & Eye Donation Helps The Sick and Injured In Our Community

11/27/2024
Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Don Juan from 100.3 FM Cincy's R&B station in Cincinnati. Resources https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope. https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:06:15

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EP 101: Heartfelt Care: Dr Bonomo Explains The Vision For A Holistic Donor Care Unit Within The New UCMC ICU

11/19/2024
Welcome to today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, where we delve into the ever-evolving care plan of organ, eye, and tissue donation. In this episode, we’re joined by Andi Johnson and Dr. Jordan Bonomo to explore a key recommendation from the 2021 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report aimed at transforming organ donation and transplantation practices to create a more equitable system. Dr. Bonomo shares insights into a groundbreaking initiative—the establishment of a donor care unit within UCMC’s new Flex ICU. This innovative, first-of-its-kind model is designed to improve organ donation outcomes by providing comprehensive, compassionate care to both donors and their families. Tune in for this important conversation on enhancing the donor experience and advancing the future of organ donation. Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope. https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:29:27

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EP 100: Network For Hope Community Breakfast - An Annual Event Celebrating Those Impacted By, And Community Advocates For, Organ, Tissue & Eye Donation

11/12/2024
Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Lincoln Ware from WDBZ the Buzz of Cincinnati talk station. Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope. https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:05:24

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EP 99: Community Heroes - Gratitude From Those Affected By Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation

11/5/2024
Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about Organ, Tissue, and Eye donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope. https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:07:39

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EP 98: Breath of Hope: Navigating the double lung transplant journey

10/29/2024
Welcome to today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, where we explore the evolving landscape of organ, tissue, and eye donation. Join us as we chat with Andi Johnson, featuring Jennie Wright, a double lung transplant recipient, and her daughter, Siri Imanin. Jennie, diagnosed with sarcoidosis and pulmonary hypertension, waited a year to be listed for a transplant and another two years to receive the lungs. She recounts the challenges, including antibiotic-resistant infections and the emotional toll on her family. Siri shares how her mother's journey influenced her music and activism, emphasizing the importance of organ donation education in the Black community. They discuss the need for proactive health awareness and the impact of supportive networks on their recovery. Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope. https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:40:47

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EP 97: ¡LifeCenter ahora es Network For Hope!

10/22/2024
LifeCenter ahora es Network For Hope! (LifeCenter now is Network For Hope!) This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega. This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation. Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:12:16

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EP 96: "Second Chances: A Teen's Journey from Cardiac Arrest to a New Heart"

10/15/2024
In this heartfelt episode of This Thing Called Life Podcast, host Andi Johnson sits down with Mario Jarrett and his mother, Kesia, to discuss Mario's incredible journey following a cardiac arrest at just 16 years old. They share the challenges and miracles that shaped his need for a heart transplant, highlighting the unwavering love and support that surrounded him throughout this life-altering experience. Mario's story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the determination to embrace life fully. Join us as they delve into the power of hope and the importance of striving for personal growth every day. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! This episode is dedicated to Mario’s Heart Donor Amanda and her family! Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:32:27

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EP 95: The future of Organ, Tissue, and Eye donation could be changing, With CEO of Gift of Life Michigan and new President of AOPO Dorrie Dils

10/8/2024
Welcome to today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, where we explore the evolving landscape of organ, tissue, and eye donation. Join us as we chat with Dorrie Dils, the CEO of Gift of Life Michigan and the new President of the AOPO. In this episode, Dorrie and Andi Johnson delve into Dorrie’s journey as a female CEO in the transplant field, discussing the challenges and triumphs she’s faced along the way. They’ll also highlight the significant increase in donations following expanded donor criteria, reflect on Dorrie’s impactful speech, and uncover the steps that led her to this pivotal role. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:32:56

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EP 94: Uniting for Hope: The Merger Transforming Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation

10/1/2024
"Uniting for Hope: The Merger Transforming Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation” We're thrilled to be back after our summer break, kicking off with exciting news about a transformative merger aimed at enhancing access to life-saving transplants. In this episode, hosts Andi Johnson, Julie Bergin, and Barry Massa delve into the merger between Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) and LifeCenter Organ Donor Network. Both organizations have a rich history of excellence in organ donation advocacy, and together they will rebrand as “Network for Hope.” This partnership will harness their combined strengths to bolster advocacy and community outreach efforts. Join us as Julie and Barry share their inspiring personal journeys and reveal how their leadership has shaped this merger, paving the way for a brighter future for organ recipients in need of support. Don’t miss it! Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:53:44

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This Thing Called Life Summer Hiatus: Keep up the spirit of compassion even in our absence!

6/25/2024
This Thing Called Life Podcast will be on a summer hiatus returning this fall. The essence of our mission remains. When we return, you can expect more powerful organ, eye, and tissue donation stories from the donors, recipients, families, and frontline healthcare workers. While we're on this break, if you or someone you know is seeking information about organ, eye, and tissue donation, I strongly encourage you to visit lifepassiton.org. It’s a rich source of resources, stories, and opportunities for you to make a difference. Remember, every act of giving, no matter how small, has the potential to change a life. Even in our absence, let's continue to spread the word, encourage others to register as donors, and keep the spirit of "This Thing Called Life" alive and thriving. Thank you for your unwavering support, understanding, and compassion for us and our guests throughout this journey. Until we meet again, take care of yourselves and each other.

Duration:00:02:53

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EP 93: The Family Genetics that impacted the Liver health of Tony Burdette

6/7/2024
Episode 93: Family Genetics That Lead To The Need For a Liver Transplant For Tony Burdette On this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi will speak with Mr. Tony Burdette, who will discuss his involvement with organ donation. Tony's life was saved in August 2019 via a liver transplant. His father passed down a genetic disease called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency to him. He was diagnosed in the early 1990s, with symptoms including exhaustion and low platelet counts. Tune in for his great story. Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources Mentioned: Website FacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitterwebsiteLinkedInOrgan Donation Websitehttps://www.vivavoices.net/about/https://www.facebook.com/tony.burdette.5

Duration:00:31:44

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EP 92: Nuevo nombre, misma pasión por salvar vidas

5/29/2024
This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega. The monthly interview will provide the Spanish Community with information about "Network For Hope" (New Name, formally Life Center, but the same passion for saving lives) and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation.

Duration:00:14:03

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EP 91: A Calling To Find A Kidney Donor For All In Need

5/7/2024
A Calling To Find A Kidney Donor For All In Need Darcy Gibson and Andy Johnson discuss the challenges faced by kidney transplant recipients and their families. In this episode they shared their experiences highlighting the importance of storytelling and education when raising awareness about kidney disease, emphasizing the impact of personal stories on building empathy and creating a sense of community. Episode Highlights: https://getoffthelist.org/ 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://getoffthelist.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:21:51

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EP 90: A Wife's Incredible Gift Of Life For Her Husband

4/30/2024
In this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi talks with Marty and Bonnie Garneret. Bonnie is not only Marty’s wife but also his kidney champion. Marty and his wife have been married for 42 years this month, and he says that he married an angel without wings. They share their special journey and you are not going to want to miss it!

Duration:00:44:29

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EP 89: April Is National Donate Life Month - Creating Awareness Of The Need To Register For Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation

4/23/2024
Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Lincoln Ware from WDBZ the Buzz of Cincinnati talk station. Resources: https://lifepassiton.org/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Duration:00:04:55

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EP 88: Azul y Verde; Mes de Donar Vida (Green and Blue; Donate Life Month

4/16/2024
This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega. The monthly interview will provide the Spanish Community with information about Life Center and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation.

Duration:00:12:27

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EP 87: Coach Darryn Chenault's Kidney Transplant Journey

4/9/2024
Coach Darryn Chenault's Kidney Transplant Journey It's April so it's time to celebrate the tremendous generosity of those who have saved and healed others as organ eye and tissue donors. Today we introduce Coach Darryn Chenault, to share his Transplant Journey and discuss how he broke the cycle of not communicating about Kidney Disease in his family. Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:31:08

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EP 86: World Kidney Day Reminds Us How We Can Help Others In Need.

4/2/2024
Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Don Juan Fasho from 100.3 Cincy's R&B station. Resources: https://lifepassiton.org/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Duration:00:04:59

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EP 85: From Transplant to Triumph: A Nurse's Journey of Healing, Giving Back and Finding Love

3/26/2024
From Transplant to Triumph: A Nurse's Journey of Healing, Giving Back and Finding Love Today we introduce Asia Werner, a transplant recipient and nurse with UC Health. Tune in to hear Asia's incredible story of receiving her heart transplant as an infant, her decision to become a nurse, and her advice for young people who might have to go through an organ transplant journey. Episode Highlights: 3 Key Points: Tweetable Quotes: Resources: https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Duration:00:25:46