Episodes
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This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Angel James. On the morning of February 4, 2023, she was singing in the choir, her voice resonating with joy, connection, and purpose. But by that evening, everything changed. A stroke stole Angel’s ability to speak, leaving her in silence, uncertain of what the future would hold.
This is a story of survival, resilience, and the power of reclaiming one’s voice. Through faith, community, and unwavering determination, she not only relearned to speak but discovered a deeper purpose—using her voice to inspire hope, foster connection, and remind us all of the strength found in sharing our stories.
What is one thing you can do today to be a voice of connection and hope?What has helped you regain confidence in your voice?
Community Conversation Prompts:Guest Resource Suggestions:
Stroke Survivors CAN! - Support GroupGood Samaritan Hospital Rehabilitation Center -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Angel James. On the morning of February 4, 2023, she was singing in the choir, her voice resonating with joy, connection, and purpose. But by that evening, everything changed. A stroke stole Angel’s ability to speak, leaving her in silence, uncertain of what the future would hold.
This is a story of survival, resilience, and the power of reclaiming one’s voice. Through faith, community, and unwavering determination, she not only relearned to speak but discovered a deeper purpose—using her voice to inspire hope, foster connection, and remind us all of the strength found in sharing our stories.
What is one thing you can do today to be a voice of connection and hope?What has helped you regain confidence in your voice?
Community Conversation Prompts:Guest Resource Suggestions:
Stroke Survivors CAN! - Support GroupGood Samaritan Hospital Rehabilitation Center -
Episodes manquant?
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On January 16, 2017, Mike’s life was full—teaching, coaching, and raising a family. But in an instant, everything changed. A stroke stole his ability to swallow, eat, and live life as he knew it. What followed was a battle he never saw coming—one of survival, loss, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of purpose.
In this episode, Mike shares his journey of renewal, from isolation to connection. Through unexpected friendships, volunteer work, and a shift in perspective, he found a way forward and now offers his experience to accompany others through their recovery. This is a story about resilience, reinvention, and the power of connection.
Community Conversation Prompts:
How has helping others shaped your sense of self in recovery?How have the communities or relationships you’ve found after the stroke impacted your recovery?Guest's Suggested Resources:
Sarah Bellum’s Bakery and Workshop Resilient Seed Healing Farm Love Your Brain -
On January 16, 2017, Mike’s life was full—teaching, coaching, and raising a family. But in an instant, everything changed. A stroke stole his ability to swallow, eat, and live life as he knew it. What followed was a battle he never saw coming—one of survival, loss, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of purpose.
In this episode, Mike shares his journey of renewal, from isolation to connection. Through unexpected friendships, volunteer work, and a shift in perspective, he found a way forward and now offers his experience to accompany others through their recovery. This is a story about resilience, reinvention, and the power of connection.
Community Conversation Prompts:
How has helping others shaped your sense of self in recovery?How have the communities or relationships you’ve found after the stroke impacted your recovery?Guest's Suggested Resources:
Sarah Bellum’s Bakery and Workshop Resilient Seed Healing Farm Love Your Brain -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke we offer a Community Special with University of Vermont Medical Center’s Stroke Support Group led by Becky Louko, PT. In today’s episode, stroke survivors share personal attributes that have been helpful in recovery, lessons they’ve learned, while also offering gratitude to each other.
Suggested Resources:
University of Vermont Medical Center Support Groups
Project Independence Vermont
Community Conversation Prompts:
What strengths, talents, and/or personality traits have helped you through recovery? How?What empowering lessons have you learned from fellow stroke survivors? -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke we offer a Community Special with University of Vermont Medical Center’s Stroke Support Group led by Becky Louko, PT. In today’s episode, stroke survivors share personal attributes that have been helpful in recovery, lessons they’ve learned, while also offering gratitude to each other.
Suggested Resources:
University of Vermont Medical Center Support Groups
Project Independence Vermont
Community Conversation Prompts:
What strengths, talents, and/or personality traits have helped you through recovery? How?What empowering lessons have you learned from fellow stroke survivors? -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Michelle Humphrey or StrokeMom as she is known on social media. Michelle invites us into a deeply personal journey—one that challenges the definition of a “real” life and a “real” job. Our guest reflects on the day everything changed: a bi-lateral pons stroke during pregnancy at age 43, a confrontation with death, and the unrelenting challenge of rebuilding a life that no longer fit society’s expectations.
From a hospital bed to a daily practice of gratitude, from the loss of loved ones to becoming an energy-giving presence, this story uncovers the lessons that death teaches us about living. It’s about grieving, growing, and redefining what it means to show up authentically, even in the face of unimaginable hardship.
Through humor, heartbreak, and honesty, we’ll hear how the best parts of life emerge from the worst—and how embracing a “Pollyanna mindset” can be a powerful, liberating act. Let’s dive in and uncover what it means to live your REAL life, no matter the circumstances.
Death Taught Us How To Live w AVM SuperheroJess Karp on YouTubeJourney Care HospiceMather Institute - Ruth Geary's ClassesMichelle's Instagram and FacebookPollyanna by Eleanor H PorterShirley Ryan Ability LabUniversity of Wisconsin - Madison
Michelle's Suggested Resources:Community Conversation Prompts:
How has your understanding of time shifted since your stroke? What does living in the present moment mean to you now?In what ways has grief helped you grow? -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Michelle Humphrey or StrokeMom as she is known on social media. Michelle invites us into a deeply personal journey—one that challenges the definition of a “real” life and a “real” job. Our guest reflects on the day everything changed: a bi-lateral pons stroke during pregnancy at age 43, a confrontation with death, and the unrelenting challenge of rebuilding a life that no longer fit society’s expectations.
From a hospital bed to a daily practice of gratitude, from the loss of loved ones to becoming an energy-giving presence, this story uncovers the lessons that death teaches us about living. It’s about grieving, growing, and redefining what it means to show up authentically, even in the face of unimaginable hardship.
Through humor, heartbreak, and honesty, we’ll hear how the best parts of life emerge from the worst—and how embracing a “Pollyanna mindset” can be a powerful, liberating act. Let’s dive in and uncover what it means to live your REAL life, no matter the circumstances.
Death Taught Us How To Live w AVM SuperheroJess Karp on YouTubeJourney Care HospiceMather Institute - Ruth Geary's ClassesMichelle's Instagram and FacebookPollyanna by Eleanor H PorterShirley Ryan Ability LabUniversity of Wisconsin - Madison
Michelle's Suggested Resources:Community Conversation Prompts:
How has your understanding of time shifted since your stroke? What does living in the present moment mean to you now?In what ways has grief helped you grow? -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Tara Dinkel or STARR Tara Dinkel as she is known when making the rounds as a volunteer. STARR stands for “Stroke Survivor Taking Aim at Recovery.” May we all become STARRs. At just 25, Tara suffered a massive stroke, leading to a life-saving craniectomy and weeks in a coma.
Recovery was grueling, filled with loss, heartbreak, and moments of profound patience. But as she began to reclaim small victories, Tara discovered that life wasn’t over; it was patiently waiting for her to rebuild.
Now, Tara shares her journey to help others find hope and purpose. This is a story of resilience, healing, and the beauty of giving back.
How have you used your stroke experience to help others?In what ways have you found new purpose in your daily life after your stroke?
Community Conversation Prompts:Tara's Suggested Resources:
The Thrivers UCHealth Longmont Stroke Support Group Young And Young At Heart
Craig Hospital
Dan Zimmerman's Story and Interview
Kindred Hospital - Longterm Care
Spokes Fighting Strokes
Swedish Medical Center
University Of Colorado Hospital Anschutz
Tara Dinkel's Facebook Page
Support Groups:Facebook Support Groups:
Young Stroke SurvivorsStroke Buddies -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Tara Dinkel or STARR Tara Dinkel as she is known when making the rounds as a volunteer. STARR stands for “Stroke Survivor Taking Aim at Recovery.” May we all become STARRs. At just 25, Tara suffered a massive stroke, leading to a life-saving craniectomy and weeks in a coma.
Recovery was grueling, filled with loss, heartbreak, and moments of profound patience. But as she began to reclaim small victories, Tara discovered that life wasn’t over; it was patiently waiting for her to rebuild.
Now, Tara shares her journey to help others find hope and purpose. This is a story of resilience, healing, and the beauty of giving back.
How have you used your stroke experience to help others?In what ways have you found new purpose in your daily life after your stroke?
Community Conversation Prompts:Tara's Suggested Resources:
The Thrivers UCHealth Longmont Stroke Support Group Young And Young At Heart
Craig Hospital
Dan Zimmerman's Story and Interview
Kindred Hospital - Longterm Care
Spokes Fighting Strokes
Swedish Medical Center
University Of Colorado Hospital Anschutz
Tara Dinkel's Facebook Page
Support Groups:Facebook Support Groups:
Young Stroke SurvivorsStroke Buddies -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke we share the New Year Community Special. We recorded our Stroke and TBI Survivor Gathering this week as a way to publicly share our celebrations from 2024 and intentions for the year ahead. From publishing books, contributing to art shows, walking 5Ks to fostering supportive connections, our guests share what they’ve achieved and the visions that inspire their year ahead. Whether focusing on physical recovery, emotional resilience, or new beginnings, these stories remind us of the strength found in community and self-discovery.
What accomplishments or personal growth in 2024 are you most proud of?What do you hope to focus on or achieve in the year ahead?
Community Conversation Prompts:Resources Mentioned:
A Lesson in Swimming by Michael Shutt
Ipsi Hand Stroke Recovery Device
Jason Lopes' Media
Nutrition - Juice Plus w Barry North
Recovery After Stroke Podcast - Bill Gasiamis Interviews Molly Buccola
Saigon Siren: A Memoir of Stroke Recovery by Antonio Iannella
Spokes Fighting Strokes
What God did in 31 Days: My Story of Healing and Hope by Kalvin Randle
Ultimate Reach Support Group w Kalvin Randle -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke we share the New Year Community Special. We recorded our Stroke and TBI Survivor Gathering this week as a way to publicly share our celebrations from 2024 and intentions for the year ahead. From publishing books, contributing to art shows, walking 5Ks to fostering supportive connections, our guests share what they’ve achieved and the visions that inspire their year ahead. Whether focusing on physical recovery, emotional resilience, or new beginnings, these stories remind us of the strength found in community and self-discovery.
What accomplishments or personal growth in 2024 are you most proud of?What do you hope to focus on or achieve in the year ahead?
Community Conversation Prompts:Resources Mentioned:
A Lesson in Swimming by Michael Shutt
Ipsi Hand Stroke Recovery Device
Jason Lopes' Media
Nutrition - Juice Plus w Barry North
Recovery After Stroke Podcast - Bill Gasiamis Interviews Molly Buccola
Saigon Siren: A Memoir of Stroke Recovery by Antonio Iannella
Spokes Fighting Strokes
What God did in 31 Days: My Story of Healing and Hope by Kalvin Randle
Ultimate Reach Support Group w Kalvin Randle -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Stephen Albright, a faith filled family man from Ohio. In today’s episode, we hear powerful stories of resilience, faith, and forward movement. From navigating a complicated relationship with his father to facing a life-changing stroke, Steve's journey has been one of unexpected guidance and growth. His stories of pain, confusion, and faith, show the importance of asking for help, waiting, and finding a way forward. Life doesn’t always unfold as we expect, but sometimes, the most surprising moments lead to clear paths toward purpose, connection, and hope.
Recall a moment you felt lost or confused during your own recovery. How did you overcome it?How has asking for help in vulnerable moments benefited your recovery?
Community Conversation Prompts:Stephen's Suggested Resources:
A Father’s Promise: Stephan AlbrightHoly City of the Wichitas
How Great Thou Art by The Statler Brothers
It’s Quite a Valley by Brian Free and Assurance
Psychology Today
Sonder Mind and Body
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This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome guest Stephen Albright, a faith filled family man from Ohio. In today’s episode, we hear powerful stories of resilience, faith, and forward movement. From navigating a complicated relationship with his father to facing a life-changing stroke, Steve's journey has been one of unexpected guidance and growth. His stories of pain, confusion, and faith, show the importance of asking for help, waiting, and finding a way forward. Life doesn’t always unfold as we expect, but sometimes, the most surprising moments lead to clear paths toward purpose, connection, and hope.
Recall a moment you felt lost or confused during your own recovery. How did you overcome it?How has asking for help in vulnerable moments benefited your recovery?
Community Conversation Prompts:Stephen's Suggested Resources:
A Father’s Promise: Stephan AlbrightHoly City of the Wichitas
How Great Thou Art by The Statler Brothers
It’s Quite a Valley by Brian Free and Assurance
Psychology Today
Sonder Mind and Body
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This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome Chuck Toeniskoetter, a well educated businessman, philanthropist, and family man. In the year 2000, life was moving fast for Chuck, but on a December afternoon, his world changed in an instant. Confused as the signs of stroke appeared, his luck took over. The ski patrol nurse on duty knew just what to do. Chuck received proper and timely care, which improved the outcomes of his recovery. Within the next couple years he worked to regain abilities while also co-founding a live saving foundation. Today, Chuck Toeniskoetter shares how his experience inspired him and the Stroke Awareness Foundation to establish Certified Stroke Centers in Santa Clara County, obtain ambulance redirection for stroke victims to Certified Stroke Centers, and raise stroke awareness.
Chuck's Suggested Resources:
Stroke Awareness Foundation
Stroke Awareness Foundation App - Find nearest stroke center
What role does helping others play in your own recovery journey?What lessons from your stroke journey do you share most often with others?
Community Conversation Prompts: -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome Chuck Toeniskoetter, a well educated businessman, philanthropist, and family man. In the year 2000, life was moving fast for Chuck, but on a December afternoon, his world changed in an instant. Confused as the signs of stroke appeared, his luck took over. The ski patrol nurse on duty knew just what to do. Chuck received proper and timely care, which improved the outcomes of his recovery. Within the next couple years he worked to regain abilities while also co-founding a live saving foundation. Today, Chuck Toeniskoetter shares how his experience inspired him and the Stroke Awareness Foundation to establish Certified Stroke Centers in Santa Clara County, obtain ambulance redirection for stroke victims to Certified Stroke Centers, and raise stroke awareness.
Chuck's Suggested Resources:
Stroke Awareness Foundation
Stroke Awareness Foundation App - Find nearest stroke center
What role does helping others play in your own recovery journey?What lessons from your stroke journey do you share most often with others?
Community Conversation Prompts: -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome Tania Saiz—advocate, mindset facilitator, and neurodivergent artist whose creations celebrate perfect imperfections. After surviving an ischemic stroke in August 2020, Tania faced an overwhelming sense of disconnect. Mirrors became adversaries, and her own reflection felt like a stranger—fragile and unrecognizable. Yet, amidst this void, she began to rebuild.
Through courage and patience, each moment of eye contact became an act of reconnection. What once reflected weakness grew into a mirror of strength and possibility. Tania’s story is a journey from disconnection to profound connection—with herself and her community—a testament to resilience, growth, and the beauty of rediscovery.
What has helped you rebuild your sense of self post stroke?What are some small ways you’ve noticed your confidence growing since your stroke?
Tania's Suggested Resources:
American Heart/Stroke Association's Life After Stroke Guide
American Heart Association Spanish Language Stroke Website
Love Your Brain
Tania on Instagram
Tania on Facebook
Tania's Blog - Stroke of Luck
Community Conversation Prompts: -
This week on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we welcome Tania Saiz—advocate, mindset facilitator, and neurodivergent artist whose creations celebrate perfect imperfections. After surviving an ischemic stroke in August 2020, Tania faced an overwhelming sense of disconnect. Mirrors became adversaries, and her own reflection felt like a stranger—fragile and unrecognizable. Yet, amidst this void, she began to rebuild.
Through courage and patience, each moment of eye contact became an act of reconnection. What once reflected weakness grew into a mirror of strength and possibility. Tania’s story is a journey from disconnection to profound connection—with herself and her community—a testament to resilience, growth, and the beauty of rediscovery.
What has helped you rebuild your sense of self post stroke?What are some small ways you’ve noticed your confidence growing since your stroke?
Tania's Suggested Resources:
American Heart/Stroke Association's Life After Stroke Guide
American Heart Association Spanish Language Stroke Website
Love Your Brain
Tania on Instagram
Tania on Facebook
Tania's Blog - Stroke of Luck
Community Conversation Prompts: -
This week and next on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we take a moment to look back before venturing forward. Over the past year, we’ve been privileged to publish forty-four individual stories. Each guest has spent an average of seven weeks working one-on-one with Beyond Stillness to reflect on the wisdom gained through their recovery and craft a story to inspire fellow survivors.
In this season of thanksgiving, we’ve compiled a snippet of recovery wisdom or gratitude from each guest. Their courage to pause, reflect, and share their journey speaks volumes about the strength of the human spirit. It’s through their vulnerability and resilience that others find hope, connection, and healing.
I’m deeply honored to live and work in your presence and humbled by the Beyond Stillness community that has flourished this past year. Together, we offer our experiences to uplift and inspire one another. As Chris Wilder said in his story, “We are part of something greater.” For that, and for each of you, we are profoundly grateful.
When reflecting upon your recovery, for whom are you grateful? Why?How could you show and/or tell them this week?
Community Conversation Prompts: -
This week and next on Beyond Stillness: Stories After Stroke, we take a moment to look back before venturing forward. Over the past year, we’ve been privileged to publish forty-four individual stories. Each guest has spent an average of seven weeks working one-on-one with Beyond Stillness to reflect on the wisdom gained through their recovery and craft a story to inspire fellow survivors.
In this season of thanksgiving, we’ve compiled a snippet of recovery wisdom or gratitude from each guest. Their courage to pause, reflect, and share their journey speaks volumes about the strength of the human spirit. It’s through their vulnerability and resilience that others find hope, connection, and healing.
I’m deeply honored to live and work in your presence and humbled by the Beyond Stillness community that has flourished this past year. Together, we offer our experiences to uplift and inspire one another. As Chris Wilder said in his story, “We are part of something greater.” For that, and for each of you, we are profoundly grateful.
When reflecting upon your recovery, for whom are you grateful? Why?How could you show and/or tell them this week?
Community Conversation Prompts: - Montre plus
