The Optispan Podcast with Matt Kaeberlein You Might Have The Heart Attack Gene. Here Are The Signs
Nov 4, 2025
Joel Jamison, a coach and fitness expert, shares his personal heart-health journey, including a shocking calcium score that revealed significant health risks. The discussion dives into the nuances of heart rate variability (HRV), contrasting the needs for athletes versus those focused on longevity. Joel also emphasizes the importance of advanced imaging over standard tests for individuals with family histories of heart disease. Plus, he challenges the accuracy of wearable tech in measuring vital health metrics, urging early screening for those at risk.
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Family Heart Disease And Shocking Scan
- Joel Jamison has a strong family history of early heart disease with multiple relatives dying in their 50s–60s.
- He discovered a very high coronary calcium score (~1800) despite healthy lifestyle and normal routine blood markers.
Be Aggressive With Early Screening
- If you have a strong family history of heart disease, get tested early and be aggressive with screening regardless of age.
- Treating disease earlier vastly improves options and outcomes compared to waiting for symptoms.
Ear Sensors Can Do HRV But With Limits
- Ear-based PPG sensors can measure heart rate and potentially HRV if contact is stable and motion is minimal.
- Accuracy equals other non-chest sensors but remains inferior to chest-strap ECG for beat-to-beat precision.