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 ...
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Join us as Healthcare professionals discuss how our brain and its connections with the organs of our body control our perceptions, our behaviors, and our health. We also discuss existing and emerging tools for measuring and changing how our nervous system works. Our most recent work focuses on the influence of vision and respiration on human performance and brain states such as fear and courage. He also works on neural regeneration and directs a clinical trial to promote visual restoration i ...
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77. Stroke Recovery and Finding Strength: A Conversation with Jan Burl
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1:10:18Send us a text 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, a…
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76. Podcasting After Stroke: Sharing Stories and Building Community
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33:41Send us a text 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 t…
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75. Stroke Survivor Insights: What We Wish You Knew
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37:26Send us a text 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 …
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74. Stroke Recovery and Responsibility: Survivor Science Soundbite
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33:42Send us a text 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 frustra…
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73. Survivor Science Soundbite: Closing 2024 – A Year for Stroke Survivors
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32:21Send us a text 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 …
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72. Soundbite: Stroke Recovery Reflections: Five Years, Lessons, and the Holiday Crunch
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29:41Send us a text 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 ex…
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71. Stroke Survivor Rachel Abbasi: From Sobriety to Navigating Invisible Disabilities and Building Recovery Daily
1:27:19
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1:27:19Send us a text 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 Hea…
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70. Survivor Science Soundbite: Building a Relentless Mindset for Stroke Recovery
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26:21Send us a text 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 Discomfor…
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69. Survivor Science Soundbite: Stroke Recovery Grinding Through Recovery with Purpose
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23:26Send us a text 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…
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68. Survivor Science Soundbite: Recovery is a Grind, Building Discipline and Community
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21:35Send us a text 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, …
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67. Survivor Science Soundbites: Wrapping Up the Ego Paradox in Stroke Recovery
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19:28Send us a text This episode wraps up our week exploring the ego paradox and how it impacts stroke recovery. Ego is tricky—it can push us to make great progress, but it can also hold us back when we get in our own way. Whether it’s the drive to keep going or the frustration of hitting limits, managing ego is an important part of the recovery journey…
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66. Stroke Survivor and Advocate – Jason "LionHeart" Lopes' Journey of Resilience
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1:50:08Send us a text In this inaugural episode of Survivor Science—formerly The Lovable Survivor Podcast—I sit down with Jason "LionHeart" Lopes, a media coordinator for MMA organizations and an advocate for stroke survivors. Jason shares his journey of resilience after a cerebral stroke in 2015 left him with 75% impairment on his right side. Despite fac…
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65. Survivor Science Soundbites: The Ego Paradox in Stroke Recovery
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22:55Send us a text In this week’s Survivor Science Soundbite #7, I dive into the "ego paradox" and how it impacts stroke recovery. Ego can be a powerful tool, fueling persistence and helping us push through plateaus, but it can also become a blocker, keeping us from asking for help or setting realistic goals. Key topics include: How ego drives progress…
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64. Survivor Science Soundbites: Gratitude, Growth, and Lessons from Athletes in Stroke Recovery
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22:19Send us a text In this pre-Thanksgiving episode, I reflect on the ups and downs of the recovery journey and why gratitude plays such an important role. From sharing personal updates about life as a stroke survivor and the relentless pursuit of progress to exploring inspiration from athletes and the lessons they teach about resilience, this episode …
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63. Survivor Science Soundbites: Fueling Recovery Insights from Good Energy for Stroke Survivors
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21:24Send us a text In this week’s Survivor Science Soundbite #5, I delve into Good Energy by Casey and Callie Means. This holistic guide to health and wellness offers valuable insights for stroke survivors, covering topics from anti-inflammatory foods to daily habits like mindful movement and improved sleep. While some advice may seem ambitious, it's e…
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62. Natural Recovery Breakthroughs: Keith Ellis Bridges Stroke and Long COVID Science
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1:25:32Send us a text In this episode of The Lovable Survivor Podcast, I sit down with Keith Ellis, a medicinal chemist, associate professor, and founder of Science-Driven Supplements. With his extensive background in drug discovery and natural products, Keith brings unique insights into Long COVID recovery, combining rigorous science with practical solut…
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61. Survivor Science Soundbites: Wrapping Up the Week on Curiosity and Stroke Recovery
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18:55Send us a text In this Survivor Science Soundbite, I’m wrapping up the week with reflections on curiosity and its role in stroke recovery. As the host and writer, I’ve spent the week exploring how curiosity shapes resilience and growth, and this episode brings it all together. From engaging conversations with fellow survivors like Jason Lopes, who …
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60. Survivor Science Soundbites: Curiosity in Recovery: The Questions That Drive Us
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18:10Send us a text In Survivor Science Soundbite #3, I’m diving into something that’s been on my mind all weekend—curiosity. For me, curiosity might be the most powerful driver in my stroke recovery, pushing me to ask deeper questions, try new things, and shape a path that feels right for me. But is curiosity really the key to recovery, or is this just…
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59. Survivor Science Soundbites: Recapping Psychedelics in Stroke Recovery
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17:00Send us a text 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 …
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58. Stroke Survivor & Content Creator Bill Gasiamis on Resilience, Recovery, and Personal Growth
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1:38:59Send us a text 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 emerg…
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57. Survivor Science Soundbite: The Potential of Psychedelics in Healing
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12:12Send 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, ne…
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56: Navigating Stroke Recovery and PTSD – A Journey of Resilience and Reflection
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1:02:55Send 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, bu…
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55. Stroke Recovery and Advocacy: Ralph Cortese's Journey with Stroke Warrior Radio
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1:05:43Send 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 wheel…
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54. Pivoting Through Stroke Recovery: Recognizing When It’s Time for a Change
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56:23Send 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 recove…
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53. Stroke Recovery and the Power of Discipline, Obsession, and Curiosity
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59:22Send 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. …
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52. Overcoming Post-Stroke Isolation: Building Community and Confidence One Step at a Time
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54:09Send 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 …
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51. How AI is Transforming Stroke Recovery and Daily Life
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56:32Send us a text In this episode, I dive into how AI is revolutionizing stroke recovery, rehabilitation, and daily task management. AI tools like ChatGPT, AudioPen.ai, Alexa, and Google Assistant are becoming essential for stroke survivors, those with MS, and individuals recovering from brain injuries. I share my personal experiences using these tool…
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50. Overcoming Stigma and Building Resilience: Stroke Recovery and Life After Incarceration with Will Schmierer and Chris Hennessy
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1:23:09Send us a text Connect with Chris Hennessy: 🔗 LinkedIn 🏠 The Raven Is Here (LinkedIn) 🔥 The Raven Is Here (Merch) In this milestone episode, Episode 50, I’m thrilled to be joined by my friend, Chris Hennessy to discuss overcoming stigma and building resilience, whether as a stroke survivor or after incarceration. Chris opens up about his 8.5 years …
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49. Surviving Stroke - Unseen Struggles and Daily Challenges Revealed
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56:54Send us a text In today’s episode, I explore the often-unseen challenges stroke survivors face daily, like cognitive fatigue, brain fog, and isolation. I’ll share how I’ve adjusted my self-esteem and body image post-stroke, and discuss the psychological toll of recovery. We’ll also highlight the importance of building a safe, interactive community …
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48. Grit and Growth: Navigating Stress in Stroke Recovery (Part 2)
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47:48Send us a text In today’s episode, I continue exploring the critical role of grit in stroke recovery, focusing on how to turn stressors into opportunities for growth. I’ll share practical In today’s episode, I continue exploring the critical role of grit in stroke recovery, focusing on how to turn stressors into opportunities for growth. I’ll share…
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47. Stroke Recovery and Embracing Grit: The Power of Perseverance & Mindset
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53:56Send us a text In today’s episode, I dive into the critical role of grit and resilience in stroke recovery. We'll explore how the development of grit has shaped my journey and discuss the importance of building a supportive community for stroke survivors. Plus, I'll share some exciting updates on "The Center" by Survivor Science and how it's making…
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38. Finding Hope and Support: Will Schmierer and Rosa Hart Discuss the Many Sides Stroke Recovery
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56:02Send us a text 🎙️ Episode 38: "Journeys of Recovery: A Chat with Rosa Hart" Welcome back to The Lovable Survivor! In this special episode, our first guest in 38 episodes, Rosa Hart, a stroke nurse navigator, shares her invaluable experiences and insights from her career in stroke recovery. 🌟 In This Episode: Rosa's Inspiring Path: Rosa discusses he…
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46. Spasticity Management: Essential Tips for Stroke Survivors
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58:37Send us a text In today’s episode, I catch up on my journey as a stroke survivor, diving deep into the challenges of managing spasticity and the road to recovery. I also share updates on "The Center" by Survivor Science and its impact on the community. The doors are open to join currently https://center.survivorscience.com/ 🌟 Episode: Managing Spas…
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Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Anxiety- What's Normal, What's Too Much, and How to Make It Work for You
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21:51Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Anxiety- How to Make It Work for You Trailer
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12:17Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Protecting Brain Health and Preventing Alzheimer's
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34:35Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Protecting Brain Health and Preventing Alzheimer's Trailer
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12:34Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Stroke Awareness with the Brain Docs- From Risk Factors to Recovery
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32:34Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Medical Cannabis- When Is It Appropriate and What Are the Risks
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30:42Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Medical Cannabis- When Is It Appropriate and What Are the Risks Trailer
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12:20Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Identifying and supporting people with binge-eating disorder
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14:48Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Identifying and managing familial hypercholesterolaemia
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20:45Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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15 Foods that Give You Energy; Do You Have Summer Depression?
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25:56Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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Overcoming Opioid Addiction, Social Media and Mental Health
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31:42Thank you for listening to this episode of "Health and Fitness" from the Nezpod Studios! Enjoy your night or the start of your day, spiced by our top-notch health and fitness/wellness updates coined from the best sources around the globe: made only for your utmost enjoyment and enlightenment… Click on subscribe to get more spicy episodes for free! …
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45. Journey to 10,000 Miles: A Story of Running, Stroke Recovery, and Resilience
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1:00:18Send us a text In today’s episode, I catch up after a hiatus and update everyone on my journey as a stroke survivor with multiple sclerosis (MS) and how I've added the online community portion called "The Center" by Survivor Science. 🌟 Episode: "The Center" by Survivor Science Community: Discussing the addition of the Survivor Science blog into a c…
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