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In episode 77 of Survivor Science, I sit down with stroke survivor, author, and coach Jan Burl to talk about her incredible journey of resilience and recovery. Jan shares her powerful story of surviving a severe hemorrhagic stroke, the challenges she faced in rebuilding her life, and how she found purpose through writing, coaching, and breathwork. From her early days of struggle to becoming a guiding voice for other survivors and caregivers, Jan’s story is a testament to perseverance and self-discovery.

We dive into the importance of taking ownership of recovery, finding ways to adapt to new realities, and the role of breathwork in managing stress and improving focus. Jan also opens up about her work with caregivers, helping bridge the gap between survivors and their loved ones to create better understanding and support. She talks about the unexpected ways her stroke led her to new opportunities, including writing children’s books, poetry, and coaching others through their recovery journeys. Her insights remind us that stroke recovery is not just about physical rehabilitation, but also about reshaping identity and embracing new possibilities.

This episode covers the real and raw aspects of life after stroke—navigating relationships, overcoming self-doubt, and redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life. Whether you're a survivor, a caregiver, or someone looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways and reminders that growth is always possible, no matter where you are in your journey.

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

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Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
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Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In 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 creativity.

We talk about everything from choosing a topic to picking the right tools and finding your voice. I reflect on how podcasting has helped me with my own recovery, including improving my speech and sharing my story in a way that connects with others. If you’ve ever thought about creating content, this episode will give you the motivation and practical advice you need to take that first step. Let’s explore what it means to share your story and build community in a way that’s meaningful and sustainable.

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

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Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In episode 75 of the Survivor Science podcast, I dive into the realities of life after stroke and what we as survivors wish others understood. From the invisible challenges like fatigue and the mental load of recovery to the misconceptions that still linger, this conversation is about creating a deeper understanding. I share lessons from my own recovery journey and highlight insights from others in the stroke community, including caregivers and those outside our circle. This episode is for survivors, caregivers, and anyone curious about the resilience it takes to navigate life after stroke.

It’s not just about sharing what makes recovery so demanding; it’s about helping others see what’s possible with the right mindset and support. Whether you’re a stroke survivor looking for validation or someone supporting a loved one, this episode offers a candid perspective on the struggles, the triumphs, and everything in between. Tune in for a real and honest conversation about what it means to live and thrive after stroke.

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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Welcome 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 journey, from managing expectations to setting goals that are flexible yet intentional. Recovery is different for every stroke survivor, but one constant is the need to lead your own path forward while using the resources and support systems available to you. This episode is packed with insights from Bill’s book, as well as my personal experiences navigating setbacks, lessons learned, and how I’ve applied these ideas to my life.

If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone supporting a loved one, this episode will resonate with you. Let’s start the year strong, focused, and ready to tackle what’s ahead together.

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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As 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 The Center, providing a space for survivors to share knowledge and support one another. The podcast and other resources reinforced the idea that while recovery is deeply personal, having access to shared wisdom and tools can make a difference. Survivor Science has become a platform where survivors’ voices and experiences are at the forefront.

Heading into 2025, the focus remains on connecting survivors and offering practical resources that matter. Survivor Science will continue to prioritize content that’s honest, actionable, and reflective of the challenges and triumphs of recovery. The goal is simple: to keep building something that serves stroke survivors in a meaningful way.

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In 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 during the holidays is more critical than ever.

There will not be a full episode this week because of Christmas on Wednesday, but I will be back with a follow-up at the end of the week.

Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, or someone seeking insight into resilience, this episode is a heartfelt look at what it means to rebuild a life after a stroke. Tune in to reflect, connect, and find inspiration for your own journey.

Happy Holidays, and remember you are not alone!

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In this episode of Survivor Science, Rachel Abbasi, host of the Recovery Daily Podcast, shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey through sobriety, stroke recovery, and life with an invisible disability. Rachel’s story highlights the power of resilience, community, and daily commitment to recovery.

Topics Covered:

Personal Health Journeys:

How sobriety laid the foundation for navigating stroke recovery.

Coping with an invisible vestibular disorder, chronic dizziness, and headaches.

Technology and Recovery:

Using voice-over technology and tools like the remarkable tablet to overcome daily challenges.

How podcasting became a tool for speech improvement and therapeutic expression.

Alcoholism and Sobriety:

Rachel’s experiences with alcoholism and the life-changing impact of sobriety.

The parallels between recovery from addiction and stroke.

Emotional and Mental Health:

The role of acceptance, mindfulness, and meditation in recovery.

Overcoming mental health challenges and breaking down stigmas around disabilities.

Community and Support:

The value of connecting with recovery communities and utilizing resources like VEDA.

How Rachel’s story inspires others through public discussions and advocacy.

Rachel’s journey is one of courage, transformation, and hope. 

Connect with Rachel:
Find more of her social links on her website
Website: Recovery Daily Podcast

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In this episode, we dive into Relentless by Tim Grover, a powerful book on the mindset of high performers like Kobe Bryant and Dwayne Wade, and connect its lessons to stroke recovery. Highlights include:

• The Three Archetypes: Coolers, Closers, and Cleaners—what they mean and how they align with stages of recovery.
• Embracing Discomfort: Why stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for breakthroughs.
• Consistency is Key: Building habits and pushing just a little further every day.
• Know Yourself: How self-awareness and acceptance fuel resilience and recovery.

We also discuss Limitless by Jim Kwik and how reading fuels cognitive and emotional growth.

➡️ Explore The Center by Survivor Science to join a supportive community of stroke survivors. Don't miss the ongoing holiday offer—50% off your first three months or 30% off the annual membership!

Hey there! If you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating recovery, I want to invite you to check out The Center by Survivor Science. Head over to center.survivorscience.com and join a community that understands what you're going through.

And if you’re not quite ready to join, that’s okay! You can still access free resources at survivorscience.com 

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In this Soundbite, I’m wrapping up the week by diving deeper into the grind of recovery. From running to discipline to the power of showing rather than just telling, this episode focuses on the relentless effort required for progress. I reflect on my own journey from a wheelchair to running and the importance of sharing these moments to inspire and support fellow stroke survivors. Recovery is a grind, and it’s all about taking small, consistent steps each day to improve and adapt.

I also discuss the challenges of connecting with other survivors and building a stronger community to share knowledge, tips, and stories that can make a difference. Whether it’s about recovery goals, social media content, or the transformative power of perseverance, this episode is packed with insights to motivate you on your journey.

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

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Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...

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In this episode of Survivor Science Soundbites, I reflect on the realities of recovery from stroke and MS, sharing my personal journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Recovery is a grind. It takes discipline, consistent effort, and a willingness to reassess your goals as you go. I open up about the challenges I’ve faced, from ankle stiffness to wound healing, and how I’ve navigated these hurdles through persistence and self-advocacy.

We also dive into the importance of building and engaging with a supportive community. Whether it’s connecting with fellow survivors on social media or planning initiatives like a virtual content creator meetup, I share how collaboration and shared experiences can fuel motivation and growth.

If you’re looking for practical insights, real talk about the ups and downs of recovery, and encouragement to keep pushing forward, this episode is for you. Let’s tackle the grind of recovery together, one step at a time.

💖 Let's Connect! Bye for Now 👋 (IYKYK)

Email - podcast [at] survivorscience [.] com

💖 Check out the new websites!!⤵️
🧪 🔗 https://center.survivorscience.com/
🧪 🔗 https://survivorscience.com/
🎙️🔗 https://podcast.survivorsciencecom/

X/Twitter - https://twitter.com/SurvivorSciHQ

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschmierer/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@SurvivorScienceHQ

IG- https://www.instagram.com/SurvivorScienceHQ/

Medical Disclaimer: All content found on this channel is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided, while based on personal experiences, should not replace professional medical counsel. Always consult with your physician or another qualified health provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Always seek professional advice before starting a new exercise or therapy...