You’ve been through a lot .

And maybe, just maybe,

someone out there

needs to hear it.

This is a podcast for real stories.

Not for experts. Not for perfect people.

Just humans who are trying, healing, breaking, growing, and beginning again.

WHO THIS IS FOR

You might be a fit if:

You’ve walked through something painful but found a way to keep going

You’ve lost someone, something, or even yourself, but you’re still here

You’re still in the middle of it, and you don’t have all the answers

You feel like your story might help someone else not feel so alone

Stories That Stay

Host: Aya Sarmiento

Hi, I’m Aya and I host Stories That Stay.

I started this podcast because I believe in everyday courage.

We all carry stories that never go viral, but they shape us.


This show is a place to speak from the heart, without pressure to inspire or impress.

We record gentle, unfiltered conversations that others can relate to, reflect on, and hold close.

Whether you're talking about faith, family, burnout, love, or loss, you’re welcome here.

Stories That Stay

Host: Aya Sarmiento

Hi, I’m Aya and I host Stories That Stay.

I started this podcast because I believe in everyday courage.

We all carry stories that never go viral, but they shape us.


This show is a place to speak from the heart, without pressure to inspire or impress.

We record gentle, unfiltered conversations that others can relate to, reflect on, and hold close.

Whether you're talking about faith, family, burnout, love, or loss, you’re welcome here.

If you feel something in you saying “maybe it’s time to share,”

I invite you to apply below.

Featured stories on

Stories That Stay

“I lost my job during the pandemic. I thought I lost everything. But it led me to speak up for myself and that changed everything.”

Dan, 27

“When I lost my mom at 25, I started to notice how short life really is. That grief made me see time differently and I live slower now because of it.”

Jane, 26

“For years I kept praying for a kind of love I thought I needed. It didn’t come. But somehow, peace did. And it was enough.”

Mel, 22