Survivor Science

Will Schmierer

1 Creator

Stroke recovery is brutal. It takes discipline, obsession, and endless hours of work. I’m Will Schmierer, a stroke survivor living with MS, and I’ve spent thousands of hours studying, testing, and living recovery. Not because I wanted to. Because I had to.
Through Survivor Science, I share what I’ve learned through blood, sweat, and research. We dive into conversations with survivors and experts who’ve done the work. No shortcuts. No miracle cures. Just real science and strategies that drive recovery forward.
Not because I wanted to master recovery. Because I had to. Let’s dig in.

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Top 10 Survivor Science Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Survivor Science episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Survivor Science for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Survivor Science episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

41. Stroke Survivors' Chat: Two Friends, Two Journeys, One Inspiring Conversation

Survivor Science

12/23/23 • 73 min

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🌟 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 Recovery: We emphasize patience and persistence in recovery, touching on work, managing challenges, and societal perceptions.

🏡 Impact on Family and Relationships: We explore how our families and spouses reacted, emphasizing the need for understanding.

💰 Financial Strain and Medical Expenses: Margo shares her financial challenges post-stroke, dealing with medical costs and work disruptions.

😌 Coping and Mental Health: We discuss personal growth, managing anger, and coping with memory loss and financial strain.

⏰ Medical Procedures and Timely Intervention: Margo's experience with high blood pressure and the importance of timely medical care.

🌐 Representation and Support for Stroke Survivors: I advocate for open dialogue on stroke recovery, providing support where resources lack.

📺 Media and Entertainment: We recommend Netflix shows and discuss streaming content and lifestyles.

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Personal Background and Family History: We share experiences with family post-stroke and its impact.

Join us for this inspiring conversation between two stroke friends navigating the unspoken struggles of recovery. Discover resilience and growth from life-changing experiences.

💌 Connect

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.survivorscience com/
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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14. The Hidden Toll of Stroke: Exploring Emotional and Behavioral Shifts

Survivor Science

05/03/23 • 44 min

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After surviving a stroke, the social and emotional toll on a survivor's life is often overlooked, leading to sneaky changes and behaviors that are difficult to explain to loved ones. Overstimulation is often an issue, particularly early on that family members and friends won't understand, but should be made aware of, that way your desire to isolate is lowered because socializing is an important part of life and helps keep the brain active and you the survivor in a good state of mind over time!

In this episode, you will be able to:

Gain insights into the emotional burden of strokes and improve communication for better understanding.
Delve into the behavioral and psychological shifts experienced after suffering a stroke.
Recognize the unseen consequences of a stroke that might impact daily life.
Emphasize the value of acknowledging cognitive and emotional hurdles in stroke recovery.
Enhance self-awareness and master the art of honest communication post-stroke.

The Overlooked Side Effects of a Stroke
Stroke survivors often experience emotional, psychological, and cognitive changes that may be overlooked in comparison to their physical disabilities. These invisible side effects can be equally devastating and challenging to overcome, leading to complex feelings of frustration, anger, sadness, and grief. Addressing these emotional responses is crucial in order for stroke survivors to regain a sense of control, adapt to their new circumstances, and work towards their own recovery. I encourage stroke survivors to recognize that their heightened emotions can be attributed to their brain injuries, which can, in turn, lead to better coping strategies and a more informed network of support.

Unspoken Emotions
For many stroke survivors, discussing their emotions is not an easy task, part

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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5. Things People Say That Get Old and Tired Quickly After You Have a Stroke, Brain Injury, or Similar. Explained by an Actual Survivor

Survivor Science

03/01/23 • 36 min

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After having a stroke, you will hear well-intentioned but unhelpful comments from others. One common remark is, "Things aren't going to be the same." While this may be true, it doesn't provide any practical guidance or support for the survivor.
It's important to remember that you can't control what other people say or how they react to your situation. However, you can control your own thoughts and emotions. It's natural to feel frustrated or hurt by insensitive comments, but dwelling on them will only prolong the recovery process.
Some people may doubt your abilities or question your progress, which can be discouraging. Others may offer misguided advice or suggest treatments that have no scientific basis. While it's important to listen to the opinions of medical professionals and loved ones, ultimately, YOU the survivor know your own body best.
While people may say insensitive or unhelpful things after a stroke, it's important to focus on what you can control: your own thoughts and emotions. Surround yourself with supportive people, and trust in your own abilities to recover and adapt to the challenges ahead because the rest is just noise, and most people don't have a clue! As always, if you have any thoughts or suggestions questions are tips feel free to email the show I'd love to hear from you!

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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20. The importance of humor in stroke recovery and learning to say no to things that don't bring you joy!

Survivor Science

06/15/23 • 45 min

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Episode 20 of "Life After Stroke: Say 'No' to Negativity, 'Yes' to Daily Fun," the importance of humor and learning to say no when it comes to your recovery and life after stroke. In this episode, I delve into the healing power of humor and the crucial importance of maintaining a positive outlook during the daunting journey of stroke recovery.
I start by highlighting how humor has been instrumental in my life, especially during challenging times post-stroke. I share my personal journey with you, emphasizing how humor has been a powerful tool for making conversations about stroke less intimidating and more approachable. I firmly believe in the power of positivity, channeling energy constructively, and making an effort every day, which has made a significant impact on my recovery path.
As our discussion progresses, I share my experiences of the daunting task of relearning to run as a stroke survivor. I provide an in-depth account of the struggles and the resilience required to relearn mechanics such as foot placement, shifting body weight, and arm swings - things that were once easy and effortless, and have these days can be "unbelievably difficult."
Beyond personal growth, I also explore the power of community in this episode. I believe in the strength of collaboration, community-building, and regular self-check-ins. I share my plans to launch new collaborations aimed at making the recovery journey easier for everyone.
Closing on a high note, I emphasize the central role of fun in our daily lives. Inspired by Arnold's quote - if something isn't fun, we shouldn't do it - I urge listeners to really consider making this a priority, to seek out joy in everyday life, especially for those of us overcoming life-altering events like a stroke. Just a reminder because going through something like a stroke is incredibly difficult more so

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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2. The Early days and Managing the Initial Wave of Overwhelm

Survivor Science

02/08/23 • 33 min

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When it comes to the early days of the survivor journey, there is no shortage of information coming your way as a survivor, a family member, caretaker etc. I won't even pretend in this episode it is easy to manage because it is obviously unique to everybody situation and telling you to breathe is just flat out. Ridiculous because it's important. Obviously it's better information on how to handle the early days, although it is important to breathe, because it is necessary!
In this episode, I try to highlight some of the things you or those around you may not recognize early on.
You're going to make mistakes nobody gets it right and it takes a lot of effort and energy on everybody's part to manage all the things!
Do not ignore your family, but also remember that you as a survivor our priority number one and that's true also of the caretakers and individual family members. Everybody needs to set their own boundaries and priorities as part of a team.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. It is critical early on because there are going to be limitations both physically and mentally and I think working together the best organize is really going to help when it comes to all the information and education coming your way it could be overwhelming initially.
I hope you find this episode, useful and informative. I know it can be a lot, especially in the early days, but as we go down this journey, things will get lighter and easier. I promise you you probably have heard it 1 million times that it gets easier and it seems frustrating and untrue but with time thing improve so stay strong!
If you have any feedback, questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to send me a DM on social media or email the show at the link below! See you next week on the next episode of the Lovable Survivor podcast!

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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12. Unlocking the Secret Ingredients for an Exceptional Stroke Recovery

Survivor Science

04/19/23 • 36 min

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Survivors of stroke and brain injury often find themselves in a difficult situation with no clear resolution. But, with the right resources and an appreciation for the journey, it is possible to recover from a stroke and reclaim their lives.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the power of gratitude, humor, faith, persistence, and acceptance in holistic stroke recovery.
Learn the significance of frequent progress assessments and the power of asking questions.
Master the art of pushing for progress while prioritizing safety during stroke recovery.

Gratitude and Humor: Cultivating a Thankful and Positive Mindset
Embracing a mindset centered around gratitude and humor can significantly impact stroke recovery, fostering positivity and resilience. Additionally, finding humor in life's circumstances is essential for maintaining a lighthearted and positive outlook, easing potential feelings of stress, frustration, or sadness.

Persistence: The Key to Overcoming Challenges in Recovery
Persistence is crucial for navigating the challenges inevitably faced throughout recovery from a stroke. Continuously striving to achieve goals, despite setbacks or difficulties, illustrates resilience and determination, which are key ingredients for an exceptional recovery. It is essential to remember that progress may be slow and that patience is necessary for seeing improvements over time.

Building a Strong Support System: Navigating Relationships and Seeking External Help
A strong support system is essential for individuals recovering from a stroke, providing essential encouragement, understanding, and assistance throughout the journey. It may include family members, friends, healthcare professionals, or even online communities; what's important is that each person feels supported a

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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19. Balancing Restoration and Reinvention: A Guide for Survivor's Navigating Their Journey through Recovery

Survivor Science

06/07/23 • 42 min

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Podcast Episode Summary:

Switching from right-handed to left-handed (for right-side affected survivors)
- Personal preference and task importance are factors to consider
- Progress in other areas and individual effort are also important
- Recovering from injuries
- Takes time to rebuild
- Using principles of getting safe, stable, and building comfort to restore old abilities
- Restoring old abilities and improving can be challenging
- Reflection and planning for restoring or reinventing oneself
- Athlete mentality can help
- Finding balance is key
- Benefits of nasal breathing and correcting past habits
- Mental health improvements
- Finding enjoyment in activities once hated (such as running)
- Adaptation and finding the right solution
- Gray area between restoration and reinvention
- Professionals (physical, occupational, mental health) can help with planning and timeline
- Struggles of being a survivor or caregiver of survivors
- Need for personal assessment to determine goals for restoration or adaptation
- Mental and emotional side of recovery is important
- Importance of family and managing responsibilities
- Dealing with things that are manageable but being at home is better
- Uncle responsibilities and family-related responsibilities
[00:00:50] Sports documentaries connect to stroke recovery mindset.
[00:05:48] Rare lefties in sports- exceptions like Phil Mickelson, as it relates to stroke and brain, injuries and recovery.
[00:08:15] Practice, reflect, decide for self, balance.
[00:12:13] Ask hard questions, make a plan.
[00:15:44] Change of plans due to family event.
[00:19:39] "I don't want to be alone."
[00:23:00] Grateful for healing but overwhelmed with family.
[00:26:48] Stroke recovery requir

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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15. Overcoming Plateaus: Tips for Moving Forward in Recovery

Survivor Science

05/10/23 • 45 min

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Summary: Embracing Change and Overcoming Plateaus in Recovery
Hey there! Are you struggling to overcome plateaus in your life? Whether it's in your recovery process or just trying to reach your goals, it's important to ask yourself if you need a break or an outside opinion. In this episode, I talked about my own journey as a stroke survivor and how I had to confront myself to make progress. Remember, you are in charge of your own recovery and it's essential to be honest with yourself to make progress. Let go of old habits and embrace new ones to reach your goals. Teamwork and safety are crucial, and regular self-assessment is vital for growth and improvement.
Here are three key takeaways from the episode that can help you move forward in your recovery:

1. Take advantage of your insurance - I believe it's important to utilize your insurance to the fullest if you pay for it.

2. Overcoming plateaus - Provide valuable insight on how to navigate different stages and overcome plateaus which are necessary but can be difficult. They suggest asking hard questions to assess where you need to put more effort into your recovery.

3. Embrace the "new you" - I encourage individuals to stick with their goals and be honest with themselves when facing a plateau in their recovery. They stress the importance of utilizing the tools available and being honest with oneself to make progress.

We also discuss May being Stroke Awareness Month and provide useful information on the acronym Be Fast, which can help individuals remember what to do when it comes to stroke. We hope this episode will inspire you to make positive changes in your life and reassure you that you are not alone in your recovery journey. Stay tuned for more inspiring and informative episodes t

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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4. Two Wins and a Funny Fail

Survivor Science

02/22/23 • 39 min

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This episode takes a little bit of a different direction where I discuss a few personal wins, and how I prioritize those in the beginning! And how learning how to walk better sleep better eat better and breathe better got me on the path to better health and fitness!
Everybody says it takes time, and that is true, but the best way to go about things is to slowly chip away and make small, progressive steps in the right direction!
In my case, I learned very early on that the world is not really that accessible especially for wheelchairs so walking was my number one priority from day one yours might be different, but I think the approach still applies!
Last year I got around to reading breath by James Nestor and I discuss how breathing really was probably the most significant individual item that I dove into and learned about that has changed the trajectory of my rehab honestly, my life! My case in particular might have been extreme because I was a bigger guy who always mouth breath, and I really was unaware of the consequences of long-term effects of mouth breathing. Even nine months since I first started digging in to nasal breathing and learning from advanced instructors, Patrick McKeowan from Oxygen Advantage I've gone from just OK to amazing in terms of overall health circulation and now I'm even running and have been for 140 days!
Hopefully this episode gets you thinking and I'd love to hear what are some of your wins and fails and what's worked and what hasn't?
Let me know what you think of this episode and feel free to email the show or connect with me on socials! 👇

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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3. Navigating Your Family Dynamics After a Major Medical Life Event

Survivor Science

02/15/23 • 34 min

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In this episode of the lovable survivor podcast, I talk a lot about navigating the family dynamics after a major medical Life event! There are a couple different groups involved the survivor, the primary and secondary caretakers, immediate family and extended family all want to help and it can be both challenging an overwhelming at the beginning! Every family is different, and nobody has all the perfect answers, but a highlight some things I did well some things I didn't, and some things I would do differently.
Family is always a complex situation and a major medical life event happening to a member of the family only adds stress and pressure in a time where coming together and collaborating is probably the most important along with patience and understanding!
This episode is designed to cover high-level for each part of the complex family dynamics, and how each can help assist and support one another throughout the process to ease some of the pain and inevitable tension that will arise during the process!
As always, I hope you find this episode, enjoyable entertaining and helpful and if you have any future topics, suggestions, ideas etc. please feel free to email the podcast at Podcast [at ] LovableSurvivor.com

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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FAQ

How many episodes does Survivor Science have?

Survivor Science currently has 78 episodes available.

What topics does Survivor Science cover?

The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Podcasts and Science.

What is the most popular episode on Survivor Science?

The episode title '14. The Hidden Toll of Stroke: Exploring Emotional and Behavioral Shifts' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Survivor Science?

The average episode length on Survivor Science is 47 minutes.

How often are episodes of Survivor Science released?

Episodes of Survivor Science are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Survivor Science?

The first episode of Survivor Science was released on Jan 24, 2023.

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Survivor Science

Will Schmierer

Top 10 Survivor Science Episodes

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FAQ

How many episodes does Survivor Science have?

What topics does Survivor Science cover?

What is the most popular episode on Survivor Science?

What is the average episode length on Survivor Science?

How often are episodes of Survivor Science released?

When was the first episode of Survivor Science?

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