Tiny Little Hearts Podcast: CHD and Heart Mom Life
Tiny Little Hearts Podcast is your honest, unfiltered space for the CHD (congenital heart disease / congenital heart defect) community. Whether you're a heart parent, a CHD warrior, or someone newly navigating a complex congenital heart diagnosis — this podcast was made for you.
Hosted by Katelyn McMahan, a mom of three girls whose world changed the moment she learned her youngest daughter had complex cardiac abnormalities. She searched for real stories — kids with complex CHD, single ventricle hearts, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, and other congenital heart defects— not the polished highlight reels, but the honest, raw truth of what this life actually looks like. She wanted to prepare her heart for the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Each episode features conversations with heart parents, CHD adults, providers, and others navigating the deeply real world of congenital heart disease, open heart surgery, and medical complexity. You'll hear practical advice, emotional honesty, and stories that remind you that you are not alone in this journey. Because this life is hard — and you deserve a place to feel seen.
Topics covered include: CHD diagnosis, heart surgery recovery, parenting a medically complex child, grief and resilience, NICU and PCICU experiences, fontan circulation, cardiac catheterization, and life after a congenital heart defect diagnosis.
Support this show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2464576/support
Tiny Little Hearts Podcast: CHD and Heart Mom Life
8. The Quarterback of Complex Care: How Primary Care is More Than Check-Ups with Dr. Jennifer Cropp
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In this conversation, host Katelyn McMahan speaks with Dr. Jennifer Cropp about her personal journey with her son's heart condition and the importance of building connections in pediatric care. They discuss navigating the complexities of healthcare for medically complex children, the significance of continuity of care, and the need for parents to advocate for their child's health. Dr. Cropp shares insights on preparing for school, fostering independence in children, and the mental health challenges faced by caregivers. They conclude the episode talking about the importance of finding respite to avoid burnout.
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Cactus Bloom Pediatrics Website
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This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.