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Beyond Stillness: Stories After StrokeGive Stroke Recovery 1000% - Will Schmierer's StoryThis week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Will Schmierer. In December of 2019, a small leg wound led to an unexpected diagnosis—AFib. Days later, a stroke left his entire right side paralyzed. Then came another blow: multiple sclerosis. At that point, Will was 37 and weighed 530 lbs. Recovery was slow, but he has always been one to do things 1000%, and so goes his recovery. A book on nasal breathing changed his outlook and life. He became a biker, then runner, and ultimately a resource for other survivors. Now, a...
2025-03-2631 minBeyond Stillness: Stories After StrokeGive Stroke Recovery 1000% - Will Schmierer's InterviewThis week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Will Schmierer. In December of 2019, a small leg wound led to an unexpected diagnosis—AFib. Days later, a stroke left his entire right side paralyzed. Then came another blow: multiple sclerosis. At that point, Will was 37 and weighed 530 lbs. Recovery was slow, but he has always been one to do things 1000%, and so goes his recovery. A book on nasal breathing changed his outlook and life. He became a biker, then runner, and ultimately a resource for other survivors. Now, a...
2025-03-2629 min
Survivor Science76. Podcasting After Stroke: Sharing Stories and Building CommunitySend us a textIn episode 76 of the Survivor Science podcast, I dig into one of the most common questions I hear from stroke survivors: how do you start a podcast or livestream to share your journey? Whether you’re a stroke survivor, a caregiver, or just someone curious about content creation, this episode offers a practical look at what it takes to get started. I share insights from my experience as a podcaster, lessons learned from the Survivor Science Creator Meetups, and tips on how to approach podcasting or livestreaming, especially when you're balancing recovery with cr...
2025-01-1433 minSurvivor Science74. Stroke Recovery and Responsibility: Survivor Science SoundbiteSend us a textWelcome to 2025 and the first episode of the year! In this episode, I’m diving into the themes of responsibility and mindset in stroke recovery, inspired by Bill Gasiamis’s book, Stroke: The Best Thing That Happened to Me. One of the key takeaways I explore is the importance of avoiding rigid timelines in recovery to minimize frustration and disappointment. I also share my thoughts on how taking responsibility—while not blaming yourself—can be a powerful way to regain control and stay focused on progress.I reflect on my own recovery...
2025-01-0733 minSurvivor Science73. Survivor Science Soundbite: Closing 2024 – A Year for Stroke SurvivorsSend us a textAs 2024 wraps up, Survivor Science reflects on a year of significant growth and evolution. The rebranding from The Lovable Survivor Podcast to Survivor Science was a key milestone, aligning the platform more closely with its mission to support and connect stroke survivors. Conversations with guests like Bill Gasiamis and Jason Lopes brought valuable insights about recovery, resilience, and the importance of sharing experiences. These discussions highlighted what Survivor Science is all about—helping survivors navigate recovery with tools, stories, and a sense of community.This year also saw the continued growth of...
2024-12-3132 minSurvivor Science72. Soundbite: Stroke Recovery Reflections: Five Years, Lessons, and the Holiday CrunchSend us a textIn this week's Survivor Science Soundbite, recorded on the Monday before Christmas, I reflect on five transformative years since my stroke on December 22, 2019. From navigating the early days of recovery to balancing progress with setbacks like MS, I share the challenges, milestones, and lessons learned along the way.This episode explores the raw truth about recovery: it is relentless, unpredictable, and deeply personal. I discuss the importance of meditation, breathwork, and leaning into growth, even when it feels impossible. Plus, I emphasize why asking for help and checking in with survivors...
2024-12-2429 min
Survivor Science61. Survivor Science Soundbites: Wrapping Up the Week on Curiosity and Stroke RecoverySend us a textIn this Survivor Science Soundbite, I’m wrapping up the week with reflections on curiosity and its role in stroke recovery. As the host and writer, I’ve spent the week exploring how curiosity shapes resilience and growth, and this episode brings it all together. From engaging conversations with fellow survivors like Jason Lopes, who will be featured in a full episode in a couple of weeks, to sharing personal updates about navigating recovery and staying mindful of the balance between curiosity and action, we’re covering it all.I also highli...
2024-11-2318 minSurvivor Science54. Pivoting Through Stroke Recovery: Recognizing When It’s Time for a ChangeSend us a textIn this episode, I explore an essential yet often overlooked aspect of stroke recovery: knowing when it’s time to pivot. Recovery is rarely a linear process, and recognizing when to adjust your approach—whether in fitness, career, or personal growth—can be key to overcoming plateaus and reigniting progress.I reflect on my own recovery and how hitting a fitness plateau led me to realize it was time for a change. By integrating weightlifting, kettlebells, and fitness technology like Whoop and Garmin, I’ve reinvigorated my physical recovery. I’ll share how...
2024-10-1856 minSurvivor Science50. Overcoming Stigma and Building Resilience: Stroke Recovery and Life After Incarceration with Will Schmierer and Chris HennessySend us a textConnect with Chris Hennessy:🔗 LinkedIn🏠 The Raven Is Here (LinkedIn)🔥 The Raven Is Here (Merch)In this milestone episode, Episode 50, I’m thrilled to be joined by my friend, Chris Hennessy to discuss overcoming stigma and building resilience, whether as a stroke survivor or after incarceration. Chris opens up about his 8.5 years in prison and how he founded The Raven Is Here, a nonprofit that transforms drug houses into sober living spaces for those in recovery. We dive into the challenges of mental health, reintegration, and the paralle...
2024-09-051h 23Survivor Science38. Finding Hope and Support: Will Schmierer and Rosa Hart Discuss the Many Sides Stroke RecoverySend us a text🎙️ Episode 38: "Journeys of Recovery: A Chat with Rosa Hart"Welcome back to The Lovable Survivor! In this special episode, our first guest in 38 episodes, Rosa Hart, a stroke nurse navigator, shares her invaluable experiences and insights from her career in stroke recovery.🌟 In This Episode:Rosa's Inspiring Path: Rosa discusses her journey from ICU nursing to becoming a stroke nurse navigator and the profound impact of witnessing patient recoveries.A New Role in Recovery: Learn about Rosa's critical role in assisting stroke s...
2024-08-1256 minSurvivor Science44. Stroke to Strength: Embracing the Athlete's Mindset in RecoverySend us a textIn today’s episode, I dive into my journey as a stroke survivor and multiple sclerosis (MS) patient, and how coaching youth sports has influenced my recovery more recently. I explore the synergy between the discipline in sports and the resilience needed for stroke recovery.🌟 In This Episode:Coaching Youth Sports: I share how coaching flag football impacts youth, focusing on fundamental skills, teamwork, and resilience, ensuring fun and promoting healthy habits.My Health Challenges: Reflecting on my stroke in December 2019 and MS diagnosis, I dis...
2024-05-101h 00Survivor Science43. Stroke Recovery: A Reflection of the 4 years since my stroke and lessons learned!Send us a textIn this episode, I dive deep into my journey from the sudden onset of a stroke in December 2019, through the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) 2 months later to where I stand today. I'm sharing the pivotal lessons, the critical need for personalized recovery strategies, and the lifestyle transformations that have been instrumental in my path to well-being.🌟 What I Discuss:My Personal Stroke Experience: The harsh realities of my stroke, driven by high blood pressure and unhealthy habits, and the rigorous road to rehabilitation that followed.Th...
2024-02-091h 06Survivor Science42. Celebrating Caregivers: A Survivor's Journey Through Recovery and GratitudeSend us a textWelcome back to another new episode of The Lovable Survivor podcast after the holiday break. Hopefully, your New Year is off to a great start. In this special episode, I share an intimate reflection on my stroke recovery journey, emphasizing the monumental role of caregivers and the deep gratitude I have for them.🌟 Key Topics:Acknowledging Caregivers: Extending my heartfelt thanks to my family and medical team for their unwavering support during my stroke recovery.Reflection on Recovery Journey: Discussing the challenges, both emotional and...
2024-01-241h 01Survivor Science41. Stroke Survivors' Chat: Two Friends, Two Journeys, One Inspiring ConversationSend us a text🌟 In This Episode:In this heartfelt episode, I'm joined by Margo Williams, a fellow stroke survivor and friend. We'll share our remarkable journeys surviving strokes at a young age and the profound impact on our lives.🔄 Personal Transformation After Stroke: Margo and I discuss how strokes transformed us, changing our perspectives and appreciating life's possibilities.🩺 Lifestyle and Health Changes: I reflect on overcoming alcoholism and embracing healthier practices like the keto diet, discussing their impact on our lives.🌟 Challenges in Stroke Re...
2023-12-231h 13Survivor Science40. The Art of Survival: How Heart Attack and Stroke Survivors Defy the OddsSend us a textThis week, Chispian Burks and I chat about our remarkable journeys through heart attack and stroke. We dive deep into the challenges, misinterpretations of symptoms, and the transformative power of lifestyle changes.🩸 Understanding the Widowmaker: Delve into the significance of the Left Anterior Descending (LED) artery and its low survival rate.🚦 Symptoms and Misinterpretations: Explore how appearances and age can affect recognizing health issues, including missed medical signs.💔 Chispian's Heart Attacks: Hear Chispian's harrowing experience with multiple heart attacks, initial misunderstandings, and the a...
2023-12-141h 08Survivor Science39. Inspiring Stroke Survivors: My Journey of Embracing Change Through Running and Breathing ExercisesSend us a text🎙️ Episode 39: "Inspiring Stroke Survivors: My Journey of Embracing Change Through Running and Breathing Exercises"Hey, it's Will here with another episode of The Lovable Survivor. Today, I'm excited to delve into how running and breathing exercises have become a transformative part of my stroke recovery journey.🌟 In This Episode:Community Building for Survivors: I talk about creating genuine connections and guiding survivors towards helpful resources in our community.Running Milestone: Celebrating over 5000 miles of running this year and what this journey means to...
2023-12-051h 02Survivor Science37. Revelations in Recovery: Uncovering Unanticipated Insights Post-StrokeSend us a textThis week is a deep dive into some unexpected revelations and practical strategies that have surfaced during my four years of stroke recovery.🌱 Dive Deeper & DiscoverBreathing New Life: Sharing how nasal breathing revolutionized my recovery and well-being, and why it's crucial for stroke survivors.Journey of Support: Discussing the disconnect between medical advice and survivor reality, and the importance of creating our own support networks.Balanced Entrepreneurship: How I'm merging my entrepreneurial drive with making meaningful contributions post-stroke.Grit and Res...
2023-11-101h 03Survivor Science36. Beyond Survival: Nurturing Resilience and Celebrating the Strength of the Survivor Community Round 2!Send us a text🌊 Deep Dive into ResilienceThis week on "," We continue our profound journey into the support systems that empower survivors.🌱 Dive Deeper & DiscoverCreating a Judgment-Free Zone: Join me as I discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for survivors to share their stories without fear of judgment.Community Spotlight: Hear about our flourishing partnership with producer Chris and the initiative to bring mental health professionals into our conversations.Awareness & Advocacy: In observance of World Stroke Day, we focus on surviv...
2023-11-0353 min
The Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up43. When Fashion Choices and Scandals Collide: A Rollercoaster Ride of Irritation and Amusement🤔 Why This Episode MattersBrace yourselves for emotions, observations, and raw conversations. In a world with the holiday spirit, Halloween memories, and changing fashion attitudes, there's much that meets the eye and much unnoticed. This week, we delve deep into the tie between attire, attitude, and vehicle choices. We're also revisiting iconic scandals, recalling Halloween in the 90s, and discussing the dynamics of college football coaching. With the year's end approaching, it's time to dive deep. Gear up for a ride of irritation and amusement!🌱 What You'll Discover👔 Candid chat on fashion and its impac...
2023-10-3148 minSurvivor Science35. The Power of Connection: Uniting Stroke Survivors in Community for Inspiration and RecoverySend us a text🌊 Deep DiveThis week, delve into the world of connection and community post-stroke. Explore the strength found in unity and shared experiences, and the importance of time in shaping our recovery narratives.🌱 TakeawaysCommunity Chronicles: The importance of building a larger, inclusive community for all to belong. Let’s journey through my desire to connect with other podcasters and share the diverse stories of survivors.Reflections & Reverberations: Dive into my personal podcast journey—celebrating our progress, future collaborations, and the thrill of teaming...
2023-10-2754 minThe Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up42. Frustration, Anger, and a Whole Lot of Dumb: Life's Strange and Hilarious Moments!🤔 Why This Episode Matters 🤔Alright, let's get to it. We're here spilling the tea and talking some major shit about NFL teams. Who's lighting up the scoreboard, who's faceplanting, what's turning heads, and what's just straight-up embarrassing? And seriously, Miami Hurricanes, what was that tragic ending against Georgia Tech? Yeah, we're diving deep into that disaster.🌱 What You'll Discover 🌱🏈 Our no-holds-barred thoughts on the Giants, the Jets, and a bunch of other teams. Trust me, you'll want to hear about those hilarious (and sometimes cringe-worthy) NFL player expressions.⚾ A tribute to the...
2023-10-2245 minSurvivor Science34.Running Towards Resilience: How a Stroke Survivor Proved That Anybody Can Become a Runner!Send us a text🎙️ Welcome to Lovable Survivor, where this week I offer an unfiltered dive into my transformative journey as a stroke survivor. From the harrowing experience of weighing 500 pounds at the time of my stroke in 2019 to my dynamic evolution into a runner.🏃♂️ Introduction to Running as a Stroke SurvivorA stroke in 2019 had me at 500 pounds. Through weightlifting and sheer will, I slimmed down to 350-335 pounds by 2022. Discover my unexpected leap into running—something I once despised.🎵 Unique Journey & Lifestyle ChangesMy post-stroke life was about tran...
2023-10-1752 minThe Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up41. The Lovable Idiot Podcast: Tackling Football, Fitness, and Ridiculous Mileage on a Keto Diet🤔 Why This Episode Matters 🤔Alright, let's get to it. We're here spilling the tea and talking some major shit about NFL teams. Who's lighting up the scoreboard, who's faceplanting, what's turning heads, and what's just straight-up embarrassing? And seriously, Miami Hurricanes, what was that tragic ending against Georgia Tech? Yeah, we're diving deep into that disaster.🌱 What You'll Discover 🌱🏈 Our no-holds-barred thoughts on the Giants, the Jets, and a bunch of other teams. Trust me, you'll want to hear about those hilarious (and sometimes cringe-worthy) NFL player expressions.⚾ A tribute to the...
2023-10-1250 minSurvivor Science33. From Addiction to Recovery: How a Stroke Became a Catalyst for Positive ChangeSend us a text🎙️ Dive into Lovable Survivor this week, and immerse yourself in a candid, gripping account of navigating life post-stroke. As I pull back the curtain on my personal story, I'm taking you on a rollercoaster through triumphs, tears, and tinges of humor.🌱 Deep DiveSecond Chances & Reflections: Discover the profound power of a second chance at life, along with my introspections on past struggles."Never Quit Mentality": Delve into this captivating mindset, its unexpected outcomes, and how it’s been an anchor throughout my journey.Lif...
2023-10-0645 minThe Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up40. Hobbies: The Underrated Key to Relaxation and Personal Growth, Inspired by Shaq and other legends!🤔 Why This Episode Matters This week we go through life's unpredictable turns, deep-rooted passions, and transformative experiences with Episode 40 of the Lovable Idiot Podcast. Delve into the world of sports legends like Shaq, appreciate the therapeutic essence of hobbies, and resonate with tales of resilience and redemption. Fusing humor, wisdom, and a touch of inspiration, this episode is a mosaic of conversations designed to entertain, enlighten, and elevate.🌱 What You'll Discover In Defense of Hobbies: Journey into the hidden sanctuaries of our lives, where hobbies provide comfort, joy, and an escap...
2023-10-041h 01Survivor Science32. Managing Stress in Stroke Recovery: Insights, Experiences, and Practical Strategies for a Resilient JourneySend us a text🎙️ In this week’s episode of Lovable Survivor, we explore the multifaceted journey of managing stress in stroke recovery. Stress, taking forms such as emotional, physical, family, work, and financial, is a constant companion on this path. Tackling each type is pivotal for harmonious recovery and reinstating self-belief.🌱 What You'll Learn 🌱Types of Stress: Delve into the various stresses encountered and their role in the recovery process.Personal Insights & Lessons: Absorb insights from shared experiences, fostering resilience and understanding.Practical Resources & Online Communities: Arm yours...
2023-09-2954 minThe Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up39. Dirty White Tube Socks: A Fashion Faux Pas That's Got Me Fired Up This Week!🤔 Why This Episode Matters 🤔Ever wondered how the decline in customer service has rippled through our daily experiences and the business world? Or pondered the nuances of societal quirks, such as the mispronunciation of names or the persistent fashion faux pas of dirty white tube socks? Welcome to Episode 39 of "The Lovable Idiot Podcast," where these intriguing topics, and much more, are dissected, explored, and given the thoughtful attention they warrant!🌱 What You'll Learn 🌱🛒 Insights into the discernible decline of customer service and its far-reaching implications.🎤 Exploration of societal infatuations and the deconstruction of Taylor Swift's ove...
2023-09-2657 minSurvivor Science31.Empowering Stroke Survivors & Rebuilding Confidence with Small Steps and Diverse Support NetworksSend us a text🤔 Why This EP Matters 🤔Navigating life post-stroke or after a major medical event can be isolating and challenging, but remember, you are not alone. In Episode 31 of the Lovable Survivor Podcast, we delve into shared experiences, offer practical advice, and foster a community that supports every unique journey to recovery.🌱 What You'll Learn 🌱- Rebuilding Confidence: The ongoing journey of regaining self-belief and resilience.- Diverse Support Groups: The vital role of varied and empathetic support networks.- Online Communities: The internet as a lifeline for building meaningful c...
2023-09-2248 minThe Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up38.Judging a Book by Its Cover: Lovable Idiot Insights on a Life Defying Stereotypes, Breaking Rules & General Chaos🤔 Why This Episode Matters 🤔Ever wondered what it's like to run 3500 miles in a year as a stroke survivor or why some neighbors can't seem to pick up after their dogs? Today's episode dives into these topics and much more—strap in!🌱 What You'll Learn 🌱👟 The story of my 3500-mile running journey post-stroke🐾 Why dog etiquette isn't just "common courtesy"🏈 My take on Swagger, Deion, and the future of the NFL🏠 The real deal about selling homes in today's market🏫 The pricey yet invaluable preparation that college provides🤝 Being judged: how it feels and w...
2023-09-191h 06Survivor Science30. The Beat of Resilience: How Music Therapy Unlocks New Possibilities in Stroke RecoverySend us a text🎙 Episode 30: The Healing Power of Music in Stroke Recovery | Lovable Survivor 🎙In this week's episode, we're tackling the often-underestimated subject of music therapy in stroke recovery. I certainly ignored some of the potential benefits early on, so that's really why I'm talking about it this episode because I think it's certainly with something I overlooked and I'm glad it's sort of resurfaced, and I can share it with others sooner than they might otherwise come upon it!🤔 Why This Episode Matters 🤔 We're diving into music therapy's role not just as a sup...
2023-09-1551 minThe Lovable Idiot Podcast: Fired Up37. Navigating Life's Challenges: From Stroke Recovery to DJing, a Journey on Lovable Idiot📌 **Episode Summary**: Welcome back to "The Lovable Idiot," now revamped and refocused as "The Lovable Idiot: Fired Up." After an 11-month hiatus, we're back to tackle the topics that matter most to you and me. From the journey of stroke survivorship to my newly rekindled passion for DJing, this episode serves as a window into the complexities of life.📋 **What We’re Covering**:🔹 **Reflection on Recent Topics** There are important issues we're considering for future episodes. Your feedback is invaluable.🔹 **New Strategies with "Lovable Survivor"** Lessons learned and a significant life change—my st...
2023-09-1045 min