Stronger After The Storm
You survived the heart attack — but now what?
Welcome to Stronger After the Storm, the podcast for men over 50 rebuilding their lives — emotionally, mentally, and spiritually — after a heart attack. I’m Dougie, and I know this road. At 50, I had a heart attack that changed everything. What came after wasn’t just physical recovery — it was fear, anxiety, silence, and a deep questioning of identity and purpose.
This show is for the men who lie awake wondering, “Am I going to die tonight?” “Will I ever feel like myself again?” “What do I do now?”
Each episode is real talk — no sugar-coating, no fluff. Just honest stories from a man who’s been there, still there, and still rebuilding. I’ll walk with you through the tough stuff: fear after heart attack, isolation, masculinity, emotional healing, connection, and reclaiming life on your terms.
We’ll explore topics like:
- Anxiety and panic after heart surgery
- Rediscovering identity and purpose after trauma
- Mental health for older men
- What strength really looks like now
- How to reconnect when you're feeling alone
- Honest reflections and conversations with other survivors
Some episodes are just me sharing my story and the lessons I’ve learned. Others will feature real men and heart professionals who understand what we’re up against. If you’re looking for hope, direction, or even just someone who understands — this podcast is for you.
You’re not broken. You’re rebuilding. Let’s do it together.
New episodes every week. Listen on Apple, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform — and head to StrongerAfterTheStorm.com to join the private newsletter for reflections, support, and updates.
Stronger After The Storm
The Silence After the Storm | Overcoming Isolation After a Heart Attack
Life gets quiet after the hospital, and isolation can creep in fast. Dougie reflects on loneliness, connection, and the small steps that helped him find his way back to people and purpose.
Episode 3: The Silence After The Storm
The visitors leave. The messages slow down. And suddenly — it’s just you and the quiet. In this heartfelt episode, Dougie explores the heavy isolation that can take hold after the hospital discharge. Living alone in his countryside cottage, he describes how silence, once peaceful, turned into a lonely weight. This is a conversation about the quiet that doesn’t heal — and what it takes to reconnect.
If you're struggling with loneliness after a heart attack, wondering how to find connection again, or feeling emotionally stuck, this episode is for you. It’s not about fixing everything — it’s about taking small steps back to the world. Real connection. Gentle strength. Start by tuning in — and maybe by saying hello to someone new.
👉 If isolation has been creeping in for you, you’re not alone. Join my letter and stay connected with men walking the same path.
💻 Visit the website: StrongerAfterTheStorm.com
📩 Get my free weekly reflection letter for men rebuilding after a heart attack — sign up on the site.
🎧 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
⭐ If this episode helped you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it really makes a difference.
🤝 Share this with another man who’s rebuilding life after a heart attack. You never know how much it might help.
💻 Visit StrongerAfterTheStorm.com — the home of the podcast and weekly Reflection Letters.
📩 Each week I write an honest letter for men rebuilding life after a heart attack. You can join in on the site.
🎧 Make sure to follow the podcast so you don’t miss the next episode.
⭐ If something in this episode helped you, please leave a review on Apple or Spotify — it really helps more men find us.
🤝 And if you know someone going through the same storm, share this with him. It might be just what he needs today.