About the Podcast

Raw Hearts, Real Healing is a podcast for families, survivors, and support teams navigating the world of heart surgery and recovery.

Hosted by Hayley, a parent on this journey herself, the show dives into the raw, unfiltered experiences behind the scars — the struggles, the resilience, and the healing that continues long after surgery.

Every story matters. Every voice brings hope. This is a space where hearts connect, and healing begins.

Listen & Subscribe

 

 

https://rawheartsrealhealing.podbean.com/

 

🎧 Coming soon on:

 

Apple Podcasts

 

Spotify

 

Google Podcasts

 

YouTube

Be a Guest

 

Do you have a story to share about heart surgery, recovery, or supporting a loved one?

 

We’d love to hear from you. This podcast is all about real voices and real healing — and your story could help someone else feel less alone.

👉🏻 Get in touch: kiaora@rawheartsrealhealing.com

About the Host

 

Kia ora, I’m Hayley — a mum, creative, and advocate for heart families here in New Zealand.

 

After walking through my own child’s heart journey, I felt called to create a space where we can be open, raw, and connected.

 

This podcast is my way of bringing stories together so that no family or survivor ever feels like they’re navigating this path on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can storytelling help with healing?
Storytelling allows individuals to process and heal from past experiences by sharing their stories and connecting with others.

Who is this podcast for?

This podcast is for anyone touched by the heart journey — families, survivors, caregivers, medical and support staff, and those who have lost someone they love. Whether your story is about resilience, grief, or the lessons learned along the way, there is a place for you here.

I’ve lost someone to heart surgery/heart disease. Can I still be involved?

Yes. Your story matters deeply. Grief and remembrance are powerful parts of the healing journey, and sharing these experiences can bring comfort to others walking a similar path. Raw Hearts, Real Healing is not only about survival, but also about honouring the lives and legacies of those who are no longer with us.

Do I need to be a “good speaker” to be a guest?

Not at all. This isn’t about polished performances — it’s about being real. The conversations are informal and guided with care, so you can simply share your truth in your own words.

How long are interviews?

Most conversations run between 30–45 minutes, but every story is different. We’ll go at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

I’m a medical professional/support staff — can I be on the podcast too?

Definitely. The perspectives of cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, therapists, and support staff are invaluable. Sharing your experiences helps families understand the process better and highlights the compassion behind the care.

How do I become a guest?

Simply email us at kiaora@rawheartsrealhealing.com and introduce yourself. You don’t need to prepare a full story — just a few lines about your journey is enough to start the conversation.

Will my story be edited?

Yes, lightly. The podcast is about keeping things real, but we’ll always respect your comfort level. If there’s something you’d rather not share publicly, we’ll make sure it doesn’t go out.

Do I have to use my real name?

No. If you’d prefer to stay anonymous or use only a first name, that’s completely fine. The goal is to honour your journey while protecting your privacy.

Is there a cost to be involved?

No. This podcast is about community and healing. There is no cost to share your story or to listen.

❤️‍🩹 Support & Care Note

 

We know that conversations around heart surgery, recovery, and loss can sometimes bring up strong emotions.

 

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or triggered while reading, listening, or sharing, please know you’re not alone.

 

Here are some support options you may find helpful:

 

https://www.heartfoundation.org.nz/your-heart/hearthelp

https://healthed.govt.nz/products/coping-with-grief-and-loss

https://www.1737.org.nz/

Free, confidential support – 24/7. 
Call or text 1737 for brief emotional support with trained counsellors and peer support workers.

 

Lifeline Aotearoa (New Zealand): 0800 543 354 — available 24/7 for anyone in distress

 

Healthline (NZ): 0800 611 116 — free advice from registered nurses

 

 

If you’re outside New Zealand, please check for your local heart support charities, grief services, or crisis helplines.

 

💫 Remember: Your feelings are valid, your story matters, and healing looks different for everyone. This is a space of compassion, not judgment.

Contact us

Get in touch with us today to share your story, connect and join our community.

⚖️ Disclaimer

 

Raw Hearts, Real Healing is a podcast that shares personal stories and experiences related to heart surgery, recovery, and healing.

 

The conversations you hear are real, but they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor, cardiologist, or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have about your health or the health of a loved one.

 

This podcast and website are intended for support, connection, and storytelling — not for medical instruction. If you are in distress or experiencing a medical emergency, please call your local emergency number immediately.