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KIDNEY REAL TALK is a place to get easy to understand, straight forward information about kidney disease and how to avoid it.
Eddie Z is a music producer, recording engineer, guitarist, filmmaker, Grammy voting member—and a two-time kidney transplant recipient. Through Kidney Real Talk, he brings his personal experience to a mission that matters deeply to him: helping people understand kidney disease, ask questions, and find hope.
In July 2012, Eddie was unexpectedly diagnosed with kidney failure. Told on a Friday that he needed to begin dialysis on Monday, he took the stage that same night at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Music remained part of his life through nearly two years of dialysis and the uncertainty of waiting for a transplant.
On May 14, 2014, his wife, Vicki, gave him a kidney after quietly completing months of donor testing. That gift gave him ten years before he needed another transplant.
On November 11, 2024, Eddie received his second kidney transplant at Duke University. His donor brought an extraordinary connection to the story: a young fan for whom Eddie had signed an autograph when the child was eight years old. At 21, that same fan donated a kidney to him.
Those experiences have shaped Eddie’s belief in the power of living donation, the importance of speaking up for yourself as a patient, and the value of a strong support system. He understands that kidney disease affects far more than lab results—it touches relationships, work, confidence, and everyday life.
Beyond his advocacy, Eddie’s creative work includes The Playroom music facility in Charlotte, his role as a cofounder and guitarist in Charity Case, and his film work on Charity Case: The Movie, which has screened in ten countries. He also shares his love of food through Eddie Z Cooks.
Kidney Real Talk brings these parts of his life together: honest conversation, practical education, and encouragement for patients and the people who love them. His message is personal and simple: learn about your kidneys, take an active role in your care, and never give up on a meaningful life.
Matt
Ellis is an Assistant Professor of Medicine & Surgery (Nephrology
& Abdominal Transplant) & the Medical Director of Kidney &
Pancreas Transplantation at Duke University. Originally from New Mexico,
Matt has been in North Carolina for almost 20 years & bleeds Duke
blue (sorry). At Duke, he provides clinical & administrative
oversight to the transplant program, including taking care of patients
before & after their kidney transplants. His other “job” is helping
out around the house. Matt & his wife have known each other since
high school & have two children, 7 & 5. Matt coaches his son’s
basketball & soccer teams, loves yard work, & is a Mac geek. His
favorite event, next to Charity Case’s concerts is the hot air Balloon
Fiesta that occurs each October in Albuquerque, NM.
EDUCATION
MD, Duke University School of Medicine, 2002
RESIDENCY
Internal Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2002-2005
FELLOWSHIP
Nephrology, Duke University Medical Center, 2005-2008
BOARD CERTIFICATION
American Board of Internal Medicine, Nephrology
American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine
Matthew J. Ellis, MD
Medical Director of Kidney & Pancreas Transplantation
Assistant Professor of Medicine | Nephrology
Assistant Professor of Surgery | Abdominal Transplant
