Joan of Heart From Pedal Playhouse on Her Complex Medical Journey

A photo of Joan, aka Joan of Heart, who discusses GERD, Barrett's esophagus and absent esophageal contractility

Joan, or as she is better known on the internet Joan of Heart, is an enthusiastic content creator who is best known for her YouTube channel Pedal Playhouse. There she shares her passion for effect pedals not just by reviewing them, but demonstrating what they are capable of along with a healthy mix of comedic animations to keep the video fun and interesting.

Joan actually started her channel in response to her ongoing health issues. She has a unique combination of gastrointestinal issues that have left her struggling with doctors to get a proper diagnosis, debating treatment options and dietary concerns. A silent form of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), that lacks the usual heartburn, has damaged her esophagus over the years leaving her with Barrett’s Esophagus (a stiffening of the lower esophagus due to chronic acid exposure). She also has absent esophageal contractility leading to dysphagia or trouble swallowing. Combine both of those with a hiatal hernia where the stomach slides up through the opening in the diaphragm and she has a potent cocktail of issues that antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and sleeping on a wedge pillow can only partially alleviate.

In this episode of the Major Pain Podcast, Joan shares her passion for music, media creation, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), in addition to her story of diagnosis and struggles with both mental health and physical illness. Facing difficulty convincing doctors and preparing for corrective surgery, she tries to share her story to help others who may have the same struggles. She reflects on her personal journey as she tries to live up to her sign off line for her videos, “be the good you wish to see in the world”.

Check out Joan of Heart at the Pedal Playhouse! https://www.youtube.com/@PedalPlayhouse

Watch the episode on YouTube, listen here on the website, or on your favorite podcast platform.