The Broken Road Project Podcast

In this episode of the Broken Road Podcast, host Trent Peterson speaks with speech therapist Logan Ashlock about her journey in the field, the unique approach of Day Neuro, and the importance of holding space for patients during their recovery. They discuss the emotional challenges faced by both patients and therapists, the significance of caregiver support, and the various aspects of speech therapy beyond communication. The conversation highlights the need for motivation in recovery, the impact of personal experiences on therapy, and the importance of community support for survivors.TakeawaysLogan Ashlock has been a speech therapist for eight years, focusing on adult patients.Day Neuro is an intensive day program for patients recovering from neurological injuries.Patient motivation is crucial for successful recovery in therapy.Holding space means creating a safe environment for patients to express their emotions.Therapists must balance empathy with self-care to avoid burnout.Speech therapy encompasses more than just communication; it includes cognitive skills and daily living activities.Aphasia and apraxia are significant challenges in speech therapy, requiring patience and understanding.Small wins in therapy can have a profound impact on patient morale and recovery.Caregivers play a vital role in the recovery process and should maintain their personal relationships with patients.Community support and continued engagement after therapy are essential for long-term recovery.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests00:57 Logan Ashlock's Journey as a Speech Therapist03:22 Understanding Day Neuro and Its Unique Approach06:16 The Importance of Patient Motivation in Recovery08:08 The Concept of Holding Space in Therapy10:26 Emotional Challenges in Recovery14:20 The Role of Speech Therapy Beyond Communication16:45 Coping with Emotional Burdens in Healthcare18:45 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Therapy21:38 The Scope of Speech Therapy in Adult Care24:58 Functional Tasks in Speech Therapy26:22 Difficult Cases in Therapy30:26 The Importance of Small Wins in Recovery33:21 Understanding Aphasia and Apraxia37:27 Finding Gratitude in Difficult Situations40:06 The Importance of Perspective in Therapy41:43 Celebrating Successes in Therapy45:26 The Role of Community in Recovery49:24 Navigating Emotional Trauma in Recovery52:11 The Importance of Caregiver Support55:45 Final Thoughts and Words of WisdomResources & LinksBroken Road Project, Inc. https://www.thebrokenroad.orgAmerican Stroke AssociationAmerican Stroke Association https://www.stroke.org/en/health-topics/caregiver-support?utm_source=chatgpt.comNational Aphasia Associationhttps://aphasia.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com#speech #speechtherapy #recovery #braininjury #emotionalsupport #day #neuro #aphasia #caregiver #support #holdingspace #patient #motivation #healthcare

In this episode of the Broken Road Project Podcast, host Trent Peterson and guest Nelson Borchardt delve into the world of neuro training and rehabilitation. They discuss Nelson's journey into physical therapy, the importance of high intensity training, and the role of neuroplasticity in recovery. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support, spirituality in healing, and the need for patients to advocate for themselves during therapy. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the ongoing potential for recovery and the importance of hope in the healing process. TakeawaysHigh intensity training can significantly aid recovery.Neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt and recover.Community involvement enhances rehabilitation outcomes.Spirituality can play a crucial role in healing.Patients should advocate for their own care.Understanding the 'why' behind therapy is essential.Recovery can continue long after formal therapy ends.High intensity training is not suitable for every patient.Therapists must balance pushing patients and ensuring safety.Hope is vital for both patients and therapists.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Neuro Training03:11 Journey into Physical Therapy06:04 Understanding High Intensity Training09:01 The Balance of Pushing and Protecting Patients11:50 Neuro-Based Therapy Explained14:53 The Importance of Neuroplasticity17:58 Real-Life Applications of Neuro Rehab20:45 Transitioning to Home and Community Therapy24:03 Engaging Patients in Meaningful Activities26:59 Adaptive Sports and Community Involvement36:15 The Journey of Recovery: Unexpected Gains38:03 High-Intensity Gait Training: A New Hope43:08 Understanding Neuroplasticity: The Science of Recovery45:43 The Role of Faith in Healing52:10 Empathy in Therapy: The Therapist's Perspective57:57 Advocacy in Healthcare: Empowering Patients01:11:37 Words of Wisdom: Building Hope for RecoveryResources & LinksAmerican Physical Therapy Association (APTA)https://www.apta.org/Neuroplasticity Principles & Researchhttps://doi.org/10.1152/jn.00019.2019Mountain High Camp for Brain Injury Survivorshttps://mountainhighcamp.org/RISE Adaptive Sportshttps://riseadaptive.org/High Intensity Gait Training Studieshttps://doi.org/10.1177/1545968319884561#neuro #training #physicaltherapy #therapy #highintensitytraining #neuroplasticity #rehabilitation #spirituality #healing #patientadvocacy #emotionalsupport #community #engagement #recovery #journey

In this episode, Trent Peterson interviews Heather Flanagan, a stroke survivor who shares her incredible journey from a massive stroke caused by a birth control pill to her ongoing recovery and personal growth. Heather discusses the night of her stroke, the emergency response, and the impact it had on her identity and relationships. She emphasizes the importance of exercise, mental health, and faith in her recovery process, while also advocating for better health awareness regarding women's health issues. The conversation highlights the significance of mindset and resilience in overcoming life's challenges.TakeawaysHeather Flanagan is a stroke survivor and author.The stroke was caused by a blood clot linked to birth control pills.Exercise plays a crucial role in brain health and recovery.Mental health support is essential for stroke survivors.Vulnerability can be a source of strength and connection.Faith has been a guiding force in Heather's life post-stroke.Advocacy for health awareness is vital, especially for women's health.Mindset is key to overcoming challenges and achieving recovery.Recovery is a journey that requires patience and perseverance.Every individual's experience with stroke is unique and should be understood.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Heather Flanagan04:26 The Night of the Stroke12:20 Emergency Response and Hospitalization18:20 The Impact of the Stroke on Identity24:32 The Journey of Recovery30:34 The Role of Exercise in Recovery34:19 Mental Health and Counseling Post-Stroke42:08 Faith and Spiritual Growth After Adversity50:56 Advocacy for Health Awareness01:00:08 The Importance of Mindset in Recovery#strokerecovery #recovery #mentalhealth #health #resilience #personalgrowth #growth #exercise #vulnerability #faith #health #advocacy #mindset #lifelessons

What does stroke recovery really look like behind the scenes?In this episode of The Broken Road Project Podcast, Trent Peterson is joined by neuro physical therapist Amanda Renfro to explore dry needling therapy, neurological rehabilitation, and the unseen challenges stroke survivors face every day.They discuss muscle tone, pain, micro-wins in recovery, and why physical therapy is about far more than movement, it’s about dignity, purpose, and hope. Amanda also shares how faith shapes the way she cares for patients walking through life-changing events.This episode is for stroke survivors, caregivers, therapists, and anyone learning how healing unfolds on the broken road.📺 Watch on YouTube🔗 Resources & support links available at www.thebrokenroad.org Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your care.#BrokenRoadProjectPodcast #StrokeRecovery #DryNeedling #NeuroRehab #PhysicalTherapy #LifeAfterStroke #FaithAndHealing #StrokeSurvivor #RehabilitationJourney

Welcome to Season Two of The Broken Road Project Podcast 🎙️Hosted by Trent Peterson, stroke survivor and co-founder of The Broken Road Project, this powerful first episode of 2026 explores what it truly means to reinvent yourself after a life-altering experience.In this episode, Trent shares how surviving a stroke forced him to slow down, reevaluate priorities, and replace old habits with new, life-giving ones. Through honest reflection, faith, and vulnerability, he discusses:- Creating new habits instead of breaking old ones- The power of gratitude and daily intentionality-Learning to be present after trauma- Rebuilding life, faith, and purpose after a stroke- Letting go of busyness to invest in family, relationships, and community- How faith and patience play a role in healing and personal growthThis episode is an encouraging reminder that resilience, faith, and community can transform even the most broken roads into meaningful journeys.Whether you’re recovering from a stroke, navigating a major life change, or feeling overwhelmed by the hustle of life, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and practical wisdom.🙏 Subscribe for more real stories of faith, healing, and hope from The Broken Road Project Podcast. New episodes every two weeks.🔗 Learn more about The Broken Road Project or get involved: www.thebrokenroad.org#BrokenRoadPodcast #StrokeRecovery #FaithAndHealing #PersonalGrowth #ChristianPodcast #Resilience #LifeAfterStroke #NewHabits #Gratitude #PurposeDrivenLife #FaithJourney #NonprofitPodcast #HopeAndHealing #CommunityMatters

In this powerful season finale of The Broken Road Project Podcast, host Trent Peterson is joined by Luke and Jen Balloun and co-founder Amber Peterson for an honest, emotional conversation about stroke recovery, faith after trauma, and finding purpose through suffering.Luke shares his firsthand experience surviving a life-altering stroke, the frightening moments that followed, and the long road of neurological rehabilitation. Jen offers a raw and heartfelt perspective from the caregiver side; navigating fear, faith, and the unseen challenges families face during medical trauma. Together, they reflect on how tragedy reshaped their priorities, strengthened their faith, and led them toward serving others walking similar broken roads.This episode also dives into:Life after stroke & neurotraumaCaregiver trauma and emotional recoveryFaith during medical crisesRehabilitation, therapy, and community supportWhy The Broken Road Project existsThe importance of hope, mentorship, and not walking aloneAs the final episode of the season, this conversation sets the tone for what’s ahead; expanding outreach, building community, and helping others rebuild life after stroke, TBI, and serious medical trauma.🧠💙 You are not alone. Healing is possible. Purpose can be found, even on the broken road.🔗 Learn More & Get Involved Visit: https://www.thebrokenroad.orgSupport the mission, volunteer, or donate to help individuals and families affected by neurotrauma, stroke, and brain injury.🔔 Subscribe for More Conversations Like ThisNew episodes feature real stories of:Stroke & TBI recoveryMedical trauma & faithCaregivers & survivorsHope, healing, and resilience

In this powerful episode of The Broken Road Project Podcast, Trent sits down with 16-year-old stroke survivor Nathan Griffith to share a story you will never forget. Nathan opens up about the night his life changed, the battle he faced after a sudden hemorrhagic stroke, and the moment of clarity he experienced while fighting for his life, a moment that completely reshaped his future and faith.From losing mobility and proprioception on his left side, to relearning how to walk with an exoskeleton, to pushing through neurofeedback therapy and hyperbaric oxygen treatment, Nathan shows what it means to stay “Still in the Game.”His resilience, honesty, and faith-driven purpose will inspire anyone walking a difficult road, especially families navigating stroke, brain injuries, or major life change.Nathan shares:• What led up to his stroke at age 15• His experience with brain surgery, ventilators, and early recovery• The emotional impact of seeing himself differently after brain trauma• The spiritual encounter that redirected his entire future• His new mission to become a physical therapist and help others heal• What he wishes every stroke survivor knew early on• Why “keep on keepin’ on” is the motto that keeps him moving forward💛 SUPPORT NATHAN’S RECOVERYEvery therapy session makes a difference for Nathan, especially in this critical window of neuroplasticity. If you feel led to support his recovery, you can donate here:👉 https://www.thebrokenroad.org/support-nathan-griffith 👉 https://www.supportnow.org/nathan-griffith Even $1 helps.🧡 ABOUT THE BROKEN ROAD PROJECTWe are a Christian non-profit dedicated to supporting stroke and brain injury survivors through storytelling, advocacy, and assistance for therapies often not covered by insurance. Your support allows us to stand in the gap for families in need and bring hope where it’s needed most.🔔 LIKE • COMMENT • SUBSCRIBEYour engagement helps us share stories like Nathan’s with people who desperately need to hear them.

In this inspiring episode of The Broken Road Project Podcast, host Trent Peterson sits down with occupational therapist Cassie Graziano to talk about resilience, faith, and the power of purpose in neurorehabilitation. Cassie shares her personal and professional journey from helping stroke and brain injury patients rediscover independence to facing her own health challenges and learning the importance of self-compassion.Together, they discuss how faith fuels healing, what it means to walk beside patients through the hardest seasons of life, and how recovery is not just physical, but emotional and spiritual as well. This heartfelt conversation reminds us that every challenge can become a chance to grow closer to God and find meaning beyond the limitations.🎧 Topics Covered:Cassie’s journey into occupational therapy and neuro rehabThe emotional toll and rewards of serving othersFaith, burnout, and finding life balanceThe importance of grace and self-careCassie’s own spinal surgery and lessons from recoveryThe mission behind The Broken Road Project nonprofit💬 Key Quote: “It’s okay to have hard times. Life will throw challenges, but there’s always a brighter side that comes from it.” – Cassie Graziano🙏 Subscribe for more real stories of faith, healing, and hope from The Broken Road Project Podcast.#FaithInRecovery #StrokeAwareness #OccupationalTherapy #NeuroRehab #HealingJourney #ChristianPodcast #TheBrokenRoadProject #FaithAndHealing #RecoveryStories #Inspiration

In this inspiring episode of The Broken Road Project Podcast, host Trent Peterson sits down with Nicole Salzano; stroke survivor, motivational speaker, and former Bryant University swim team captain, to share her incredible journey from athlete to advocate.At just 22, Nicole suffered a massive stroke during her senior year of college, leaving her with aphasia and right-sided weakness. Against all odds, she fought her way back through faith, determination, and the healing power of community.Together, Trent and Nicole discuss:💬 Overcoming aphasia and rediscovering her voice through music💪 Living with a blood-clotting disorder and the importance of stroke awareness🙏 How faith and perspective bring purpose through adversity💡 The “Power of Yet” — a mindset for growth and hope in recoveryWhether you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, medical professional, or simply someone seeking encouragement, this episode reminds us that every day is a gift and every step forward is victory.🔗 Connect with Nicole: https://www.nicolesalzano.me🔗 Learn more about The Broken Road Project: https://www.thebrokenroad.org📅 New episodes every two weeks; subscribe, like, and share to help spread hope and awareness!#StrokeSurvivor #AphasiaAwareness #FaithBasedRecovery #StrokeRecovery #MotivationalPodcast #TheBrokenRoadProject #NicoleSalzano #TrentPeterson #BrainInjuryAwareness #StrokeSupport #PowerOfYet

In this episode, host Trent Peterson sits down with Lorenzo Cherry, a veteran, father, and stroke survivor whose story reminds us that every challenge can become a chance to grow.Lorenzo opens up about experiencing a TIA (mini-stroke), rebuilding his health, letting go of stress, and finding gratitude in every moment. Together, Trent and Lorenzo talk about the power of positivity, faith, healthy living, and second chances, including the inspiring story of Lorenzo’s 97-year-old mother, a cancer survivor and woman of strong faith.If you’ve ever felt like life knocked you down, this episode will lift you back up. 💪🕊️ Topics Covered:Signs and symptoms of a TIA / mini-strokeOvercoming fear and lifestyle change after recoveryThe role of faith and prayer in healingFatherhood, family, and finding joy in the small thingsStress, gratitude, and the power of kindness📌 Subscribe for more real stories of faith, recovery, and resilience from The Broken Road Project Podcast.💬 Share your thoughts in the comments, what part of Lorenzo’s story inspired you most?👇 Listen now and be encouraged!#StrokeSurvivor #FaithInHealing #RecoveryJourney #StrokeAwareness #MentalHealth #HealthyLiving #TheBrokenRoadProject #ChristianPodcast #Inspiration #Resilience #PodcastInterview #LifeAfterStroke #FaithOverFear