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In this Survivor Science Soundbite, I’m following up on our discussion from Episode 1 about psychedelics and their potential role in stroke recovery. Earlier this week, we explored the emerging research on psilocybin, the active compound in ‘magic mushrooms,’ and its potential to support neuroplasticity, brain health, and resilience post-stroke.

Today, I’m sharing what I’ve learned since that first dive, including insights from The Psychedelic Handbook by Dr. Rick Strassman, and reflecting on the bigger picture of what psychedelics could mean for recovery. This isn’t about replacing the hard work that recovery demands; it’s about considering psychedelics as a potential tool to supplement the process. I also talk about my personal experience with SSRIs and the importance of knowing when certain treatments have served their purpose.

This episode is all about keeping the conversation open and understanding that every stroke recovery journey is unique. If you’re curious about what psychedelics could bring to the table—or if you’ve been putting in the hard work and wonder what else is out there—this one’s for you.

I’ll be back next week with more of these quick Survivor Science Soundbites and a full episode mid-week. Let me know your thoughts! What topics would you like me to explore? And remember, I’m just here sharing my story and what I’m learning along the way—always do your own homework and find what works best for you.

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

Email - podcast [at] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

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In this episode of The Lovable Survivor Podcast, I’m excited to sit down with Bill Gasiamis, stroke survivor and creator of the Recovery After Stroke podcast and YouTube channel. We dive deep into what it really takes to build resilience, how to navigate the day-to-day grind of post-stroke recovery, and the personal growth that emerges from facing life’s toughest challenges. Bill and I share the journey from our pre-stroke habits to the lifestyle changes that ultimately helped us rebuild our health and wellbeing.

Here’s what we cover:

• Shifts in Health and Lifestyle: We talk about our pre-stroke lives, marked by habits like smoking, poor sleep, and the need to overhaul our health after these life-altering experiences. Bill shares how recovery became a catalyst for positive lifestyle shifts focused on wellness.
• Resilience in Daily Recovery: We break down the repetitive routines required to make daily progress—even when it feels like “Groundhog Day.” Bill and I discuss ways to stay motivated through these cycles and celebrate small wins as milestones in recovery.
• Breaking Down Recovery Myths: Recovery timelines can be tough, and the mental and physical demands are often misunderstood. Bill explains how his early lack of resources drove him to create Recovery After Stroke, supporting others with the information he wished he’d had.
• Accepting Where You Are: Bill opens up about the philosophy of being “good enough” in recovery, focusing on steady, mindful improvements over chasing perfection. We both reflect on how embracing each stage of the journey brings a sense of peace and purpose.
• And frankly, a whole lot more good stuff!

Connect with Bill Gasiamis:

• Recovery Afte

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] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

Send us a text

In this first Survivor Science Soundbite, I’m bringing you a quick dive into a topic that’s getting attention in recovery science: psychedelics—specifically psilocybin, the active compound in ‘magic mushrooms’—and its potential role in stroke recovery. We’ll talk about some emerging research on psilocybin’s impact on brain health, neuroplasticity, and how it could someday support emotional and physical resilience post-stroke.

Plus, a reminder about this month’s Mid-month Meetup on Thursday, November 14, at 6 PM Eastern—an open, welcoming space for all survivors and supporters to connect and share insights. Head to survivorscience.com for details. Let’s kick off the week with something new to think about!

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

Email - podcast [at] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

Send us a text

In this episode of The Lovable Survivor Podcast, I’m diving into a topic that doesn’t get enough attention—PTSD in stroke recovery. Recorded on U.S. election day, this episode marks five years since my own stroke, and I’m reflecting on how trauma has shaped my recovery journey. PTSD is usually associated with military experiences, but it can be a huge factor for stroke survivors too. It’s something I’ve dealt with personally, and I believe we need to talk about it more.

I share how PTSD emerged over time in my recovery, impacting both my physical rehab and mental resilience. From relearning to walk and eventually lifting weights and running, my journey has been an intense blend of physical challenge and emotional healing. I also open up about how mindfulness and self-compassion have been critical in pushing through tough days, as I’ve worked to balance recovery without triggering setbacks.

This episode isn’t about offering medical advice—I’m not an expert—but rather about opening a conversation around PTSD and the complex, sometimes hidden struggles of recovery. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating personal trauma, I hope my story offers some connection and insight.

Key Topics:

• PTSD in Stroke Recovery: Exploring the connection between PTSD and stroke, and why it’s important to talk about this experience.
• My Recovery Journey: From relying on a wheelchair to eventually running and lifting weights, balancing the physical and mental aspects of recovery.
• Breaking the PTSD Stereotype: Recognizing that PTSD impacts stroke survivors and how it’s not just a military experience.
• Upcoming Conversations: I’m excited to share some great interviews on the way, including an episode with Bill from Recovery After Stroke and conversations with S

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] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

Send us a text

This week I’m joined by Ralph Cortese, stroke survivor and founder of Stroke Warrior Radio. Ralph’s journey began on the East Coast, where an ischemic stroke changed his life. This major event set him on a path westward to begin a new chapter focused on recovery and advocacy.

Ralph shares his recovery journey, from relying on a wheelchair to walking unaided through physical therapy, speech therapy, and acupuncture. Together, we discuss the delicate balance between pushing recovery limits and practicing caution to avoid setbacks.

We also explore Ralph's work with Stroke Awareness Oregon. His advocacy highlights the importance of self-advocacy and using every available resource for recovery. Ralph's passion for helping others led him to start Stroke Warrior Radio, a platform dedicated to providing support and raising awareness for survivors globally.

Key Topics:

• Ralph’s Stroke Experience: His ischemic stroke’s impact and delayed treatment.
• Recovery Journey: From wheelchair to walking, using physical therapy and acupuncture.
• Challenges: Managing weight gain, anger, and healthcare navigation.
• Self-Advocacy: How discovering recovery tools and advocating for himself changed his journey.
• Stroke Warrior Radio: The role his platform plays in connecting survivors and sharing resources.

Join the Conversation:

💬 Learn more about Ralph’s work and explore Stroke Warrior Radio at strokewarriorradio.com.

💬 Looking for a supportive community? Join us at The Center by Survivor Science to connect with fellow survivors and caregivers.

🌟 Support the Podcast:
If you enjoyed th

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] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

Send us a text

In 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 these shifts have kept me progressing, both physically and mentally.

We’ll also discuss how family and personal growth play critical roles in recovery. It’s not just about physical progress; it’s about embracing change and finding growth in every challenge.

Additionally, I talk about my career pivot from psychology to an MBA, blending psychology with business to help survivors. This shift aligns with my goals and feeds into the exciting rebranding of the podcast under the Survivor Science umbrella. Future episodes will feature survivor stories and interviews, offering new insights and inspiration.

Key Topics:

• Recognizing When to Pivot: How to know when it’s time for a change in your recovery or life path.
• Reenergizing Fitness Post-Stroke: How weightlifting, kettlebells, and fitness tech can improve your recovery.
• Career Shifts and Growth: My journey from psychology to business and how it shapes the future of the podcast.
• Family and Personal Growth: The role family and personal development play in staying grounded during recovery.
• Exciting Changes Ahead: What’s coming with the podcast’s rebranding and upcoming survivor interviews.

Join the Conversation:
💬 Are you facing

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] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

Send us a text

In this episode, I explore a crucial aspect of recovery that doesn’t get enough attention: the role of discipline, obsession, and curiosity in the long journey of stroke recovery. Having survived a stroke and now facing an MS diagnosis, I understand the level of commitment it takes to keep showing up, especially on the hardest days.

I’ll share how discipline has helped me push through when motivation was low, and how channeling obsession in the right way can lead to real progress. But it’s not just about pushing through—curiosity plays a big role in my journey, driving me to ask questions, try new approaches, and take charge of my health.

I reflect on the mental and physical hurdles I’ve faced, and how even small steps, like learning proper breathing techniques or sticking to therapy routines, have led to major breakthroughs. For me, recovery isn’t a checklist, it’s a lifestyle built on persistence and adaptability.

I also touch on a recent Joe Rogan podcast that got me thinking about healthcare. What if doctors were rewarded for outcomes, not just how many patients they see? This episode is a reminder to take responsibility for your health and stay curious, disciplined, and engaged.

Key Topics:

• The Role of Obsession in Recovery: How I’ve used a focused, obsessive approach to drive my own progress—and how to avoid burnout.
• Discipline as the Foundation: Why showing up consistently, even when it feels impossible, has been key to my recovery.
• Curiosity Fuels Recovery: How asking questions and exploring new techniques has led to breakthroughs for me.
• Balancing Drive and Rest: Why finding a sustainable pace has been essential for my long-term progress.
• Ownership of Your Health: Why it’s crucial to take control, do the research, and advocate for your own we

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] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.

Send us a text

In this episode, I explore the profound impact of isolation on stroke survivors, drawing from my personal recovery experience during the pandemic. Isolation can quietly creep in, affecting your mental, physical, and social well-being—even when you’re initially surrounded by support. Today, we’ll discuss how to recognize and overcome the hidden dangers of isolation, while rebuilding confidence to reconnect with the world.

I share how isolation affected me as the early stages of recovery slowed down, and how small, intentional steps helped me break free. From mental struggles to physical limitations, we’ll cover practical strategies for pushing past those barriers. We’ll also explore the importance of community, both in-person and online, and how connecting with others can transform your recovery experience.

You’ll hear tips on shifting your mindset, embracing discomfort, and using platforms like The Center by Survivor Science, an online space created by survivors, for survivors, to find meaningful support. Whether you're looking for local groups or virtual connections, these communities can be key.

Key Topics:

• The Hidden Trap of Isolation: How isolation can creep in unnoticed and the emotional toll it takes over time.
• Mindset Shifts for Reconnection: Discover how small, consistent steps can help you rebuild confidence and reconnect socially.
• Building Community: How both local and online communities, like The Center, are crucial to overcoming isolation.
• Physical Steps to Overcome Isolation: Simple activities, from daily walks to light exercise, can play a vital role in breaking out of isolation.
• Leveraging Technology: Explore how AI and virtual

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] lovablesurvivor [.] com

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

Let's Chat -> https://calendly.com/survivorscience/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/ThinkLovable

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

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

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 regimen.