Head-Cast The Stroke Podcast

Phil Woodford

This is the podcast where we dive into all things stroke-related, care, rehabilitation, life after a stroke, the role of carers, and even the latest innovations shaping the future of recovery. We’ll keep it real, informative, and, hopefully, a little inspiring too!

  1. Apr 17

    Eps 21: Understanding Stroke Recovery and Peer Support: Insights from Greg Hollingworth of Different Strokes

    Community, connection, and lived experience sit at the heart of stroke recovery — and in this episode of Head‑Cast, Greg Hollingworth from Different Strokes brings all three to life. Greg shares his own journey as a working‑age stroke survivor and explains how peer‑led support has transformed recovery for thousands of people since the charity began in 1996. This conversation goes beyond clinical pathways and into the real, human work of rebuilding life after stroke. In this episode Greg’s personal story and how his stroke shaped his commitment to helping others The founding and evolution of Different Strokes, supporting working‑age survivors for 30 years Why peer support offers something that traditional medical advice often can’t How community, shared stories, and honest conversations provide hope and realism The charity’s approach to personalised support, exercise groups, and mental‑health resources How lived experience drives volunteer leadership and shapes the charity’s direction Fundraising, upcoming events, and how to get involved The challenges of COVID and how the community adapted and stayed connected Setting boundaries, pacing, and learning to live in the present The role of humour, storytelling, and practical wisdom in emotional healing Key Takeaways Peer support matters — it offers relatable encouragement that clinical care alone can’t provide Stories reduce stigma and help survivors feel seen, understood, and less alone Volunteer‑led organisations can create deep impact through authenticity and empathy Flexibility, patience, and presence are essential in recovery Supporting charities sustains vital community resources for survivors and families Greg’s journey is a reminder that recovery is not just medical — it’s communal. When survivors connect, share, and lift each other, healing becomes possible in ways no leaflet or appointment can replicate. If you or someone you know has been affected by a stroke, reach out. Support is here, and recovery is possible.

    42 min

  2. Apr 14

    Episode 20: Overcoming Stroke and Advocating for Change: Sheila Chingono's Inspiring Journey

    In this episode, Sheila Chingono shares her powerful story of surviving a stroke, her journey through recovery, and her mission to raise awareness around stroke prevention and inclusivity within the legal and medical communities. Her insights challenge misconceptions and highlight the importance of representation, resilience, and purpose. In this episode: • Sheila describes her experience of having a stroke while driving and how awareness and quick action saved her life. • The importance of accessible infrastructure in legal and healthcare settings is discussed, including challenges with older court buildings. • Sheila's advocacy work as a BASS Ambassador (Black and Asian Stroke Survivors) and her efforts to address health disparities in Black and Asian communities. • The emotional and physical realities of stroke recovery, including ongoing issues like limited dexterity, muscle spasms, and the use of innovative tools like functional electrical stimulation (FES). • Reflection on systemic issues, such as underrepresentation of minorities in judiciary roles and creating inclusive public services. • How her faith and purpose now guide her work and her passion for inspiring others to see their potential beyond disabilities.

    44 min

  3. Apr 13

    Episode 19. - Mr Paul Bolaji, Consultant Stroke Physician, VR Rehgabilitation Research findings, and stroke care in Africa with Ubuntu 360 stroke and Phil has a moan about stuff!

    This episode features an in-depth discussion between Phil and Stroke Physician Mr Paul Bolaji on the latest advancements in virtual reality for stroke rehabilitation, global disparities in stroke care, and innovative solutions in Africa. Experts share insights on how technology and policy can transform recovery outcomes. #stroke rehabilitation, #virtual reality, #healthcare innovation, #Africa health disparities, #neurorehabilitation, #stroke care policy Key Topics Virtual reality in stroke rehabilitation Global disparities in stroke care Innovative healthcare solutions in Africa

    38 min

  4. Apr 10

    Episode 18. pedal strokes for Different Strokes and 30 for 30

    summary Philip discusses his personal journey with stroke, the importance of fundraising for the charity 'Different Strokes,' and insights into stroke treatment advancements like thrombectomy. He shares his upcoming cycling challenge to support stroke survivors and plans to visit the Erasmus Stroke Medical Centre in Rotterdam. key topics Stroke recovery and support Fundraising for 'Different Strokes' charity Advancements in stroke treatment: thrombectomy Philip's cycling challenge for stroke awareness Visit to Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam

    9 min

  5. Feb 25

    Episode 17: From Brain Bleed to Stand-Up: Mimi Hayes' Journey of Resilience

    In this conversation, Mimi Hayes shares her incrediblejourney as a brain injury survivor, detailing her experiences from the initial symptoms to the misdiagnosis, brain surgery, and the long road to recovery. She discusses the role of comedy in her healing process and how she has turned her challenges into a source of inspiration for others. Mimi's story highlights theimportance of advocacy in healthcare and the power of humour in overcoming adversity. In this conversation, Mimi Hayes and Phil Woodford explore the intersection of humour and trauma, the challenges of transitioning from teaching to comedy, and the cathartic power of writing about personalexperiences. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding disability, the struggles with healthcare and rehabilitation, and the societal perceptions of brain injuries. The conversation also touches on the complexities of datingafter trauma and the journey of returning to ice hockey after a significant life change. #brain injury #comedy #recovery #misdiagnosis #healthcare #resilience #public speaking #personal story #advocacy #mental health humour #trauma #teaching #writing #disability #healthcare #brain injury #dating #icehockey #rehabilitation #Colorado #Denver #StrokeRehab

    1 hr

  6. Feb 11

    Episode 16: TRICEPS Trial & Professor Arshad Majid

    Episode 16 – The TRICEPS Trial: Can Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improve Arm Recovery After Stroke? In Episode 16 of Head-Cast, host Phil Woodford speaks with Professor Arshad Majid from the University of Sheffield about the groundbreaking TRICEPS Trial — an innovative stroke rehabilitation research study exploring whether Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (TVNS) paired with therapy can significantly improve arm function after stroke. Upper limb weakness is one of the most common and life-changing consequences of stroke. The TRICEPS Trial is investigating whether non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation, delivered alongside targeted rehabilitation, can enhance neuroplasticity and support meaningful functional recovery. In this episode, Phil and Professor Majid discuss: What the TRICEPS Trial is and why it matters ​How vagus nerve stimulation works in stroke recovery​The science behind neuroplasticity and motor rehabilitation​Who may benefit from this approach​What this research could mean for the future of stroke treatment in the UK and beyond This is a must-listen for stroke survivors, clinicians, therapists, researchers, and anyone interested in the future of stroke recovery, rehabilitation innovation, and neuroscience research. #LifeAfterStroke #StrokeStrategy #StrokeResearch #NIHR #Spasticity #StrokeTherapy #VagusNerve

    29 min

  7. Feb 10

    Episode 15: Stroke Survival and less-visible Disability: An Honest Conversation with Mathew Berryman

    Welcome to Episode 15 of Head-Cast.In this episode, I reflect on recent challenges travelling by train with a disability, highlighting the ongoing barriers faced by disabled passengers across the UK rail network. I also discuss stroke care in the North West, acknowledging the important progress made by Lancashire Teaching Hospitals in delivering a 24/7 Stroke Thrombectomy Service. While this is a major and welcome step forward, I speak candidly about the harm caused to local families by the prolonged delay—despite funding being agreed nearly five years ago—and why timely access to thrombectomy is critical for saving lives and reducing long-term disability.I’m joined by Mathew Berryman, a stroke survivor from Adelaide, Australia, who shares a deeply honest account of the events surrounding his stroke. Together, we explore stroke recovery, volunteering, the importance of stroke research, and what it feels like to live with a less visible disability. We also have an open and necessary conversation about sexual intimacy after stroke, and why clinicians should not shy away from discussing intimacy and relationships during rehabilitation.This episode brings together lived experience, systemic challenge, and global perspectives on stroke care, disability, recovery, and life after stroke.#stroke podcast #Head-Cast #stroke survivor story#disability and transport #accessible rail travel#stroke thrombectomy#24/7 thrombectomy service#Lancashire Teaching Hospitals#invisible disability#stroke recovery#sexual intimacy after stroke#rehabilitation conversations#volunteering after stroke#stroke research

    1h 5m

  8. 12/20/2025

    Episode 14: Stroke, Identity, FAST and the Case for a Digital Home for Survivors - Life After Stroke

    in Episode 14 of Head-Cast, Phil Woodford talks with stroke survivor and thriver Simon Harris about life after stroke, personal care challenges, the limits of the FAST campaign, digital inclusion, and the need for a digital home for stroke survivors to connect, share experiences, and access support online.

    1h 14m
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This is the podcast where we dive into all things stroke-related, care, rehabilitation, life after a stroke, the role of carers, and even the latest innovations shaping the future of recovery. We’ll keep it real, informative, and, hopefully, a little inspiring too!

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