iHeartPodcasts, in collaboration with OSO Studios, has launched a new documentary podcast series titled “Cardiac Cowboys.” Narrated by actor Chris Pine, the six-episode series tells the story of pioneering surgeons from America’s heartland who were instrumental in the development of open-heart surgery. The full series became available today, coinciding with World Heart Day.
The podcast recounts how these early medical innovators challenged long-standing beliefs about operating on the human heart. They worked under difficult conditions, using limited resources and makeshift equipment to develop groundbreaking surgical techniques that continue to save lives.
“As the narrator of ‘Cardiac Cowboys,’ I was struck by the sheer bravery and relentless determination of these medical pioneers,” said Pine. “This story is about rule-breakers who risked everything to save lives and changed the course of medicine for all of us.”
OSO Studios’ Dub Cornett and executive producer John Mankiewicz collaborated with Barry Linen Motion Pictures and 13th Lake Media to produce the series. The creative team includes writer and co-host Jamie Napoli and GRAMMY award-winning composer David Mansfield.
“When I first heard the story, I knew we had to gather our team and create this series. It’s epic in its real-life battles of life and death. The Cardiac Cowboys have saved countless lives and their work continues to this day,” said Cornett. “By partnering with iHeartPodcasts to bring this series to the world, we celebrate the physicians whose achievements have touched every family, in one way or another, reaching all of us who have a heart.”
Jasper, an AI content automation platform designed for marketing teams, sponsored “Cardiac Cowboys.” Jasper helped iHeartMedia accelerate production of promotional assets across multiple channels while maintaining quality standards.
“The story of the ‘Cardiac Cowboys’ is a testament to human courage and innovation—qualities that resonate deeply with so many of us,” said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. “We believe this series will not only honor the pioneers of heart surgery but also inspire listeners to consider what’s possible when boundaries are challenged. Thanks to Jasper, our team was able to rapidly create compelling marketing materials and seamlessly promote the podcast to audiences everywhere, helping us amplify the impact of this remarkable story.”
The podcast is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and can be accessed on the iHeartRadio app as well as other major podcast platforms.
iHeartMedia is recognized as a leading audio media company in America. According to Podtrac data, it has more downloads than its next two competitors combined and reaches nine out of ten Americans each month through its broadcast radio network. More details about iHeartMedia can be found at https://www.iheartmedia.com/.
Jasper serves hundreds of enterprises worldwide—including nearly 20% of Fortune 500 companies—and provides tools for content automation across campaign planning and compliance processes. More information about Jasper is available at https://www.jasper.ai/.
OSO Studios focuses on producing stories rooted in American culture for global audiences. Its productions include documentaries and cultural projects that aim for lasting impact.
Chris Pine’s career covers film, television, stage, writing, and producing through his company Barry Linen Motion Pictures.
