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Dan's Journey: Triumph Over Aphasia

In this episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue,' hosts Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons delve into the life of Dan Sutton, who suffered severe head injuries from a cycling accident in 2016. These injuries resulted in Aphasia and mobility challenges. Despite his struggles, Dan founded the Minds Over Matter Social Group to create a supportive community for individuals with brain injuries. The episode explores Dan's daily routines, his love for social activities, and how he navigates the complexities of living with Aphasia. Listeners learn about the significance of shared experiences and community support in overcoming adversity. The hosts also highlight the importance of raising awareness about Aphasia, a condition that remains relatively unknown despite affecting 350,000 people in the UK.

00:00 Understanding Brain Injury and Aphasia
00:23 Introduction to the Podcast
00:41 What is Aphasia?
01:19 Dan Sutton's Inspiring Journey
02:07 Daily Life and Challenges
02:44 Social Activities and Hobbies
04:10 Struggles with Reading and Audio Books
05:54 The Power of Community and Support
09:10 Singing and Aphasia
10:14 Conclusion and Resources

Visit the to Minds over Matter instagram account

https://www.instagram.com/mindsovermatter.osm/

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This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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Breaking Barriers: Disability Awareness and Inclusion with Sarah Petherbridge

In this episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue,' hosts Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding disabilities, particularly aphasia. They are joined by Sarah Petherbridge, a disability trainer and speaker who shares her experiences of living with profound deafness and working in the corporate sector. Sarah emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive workplaces and the need for a shift from diversity initiatives to genuine inclusion. She discusses the impact of government policies on disability rights, the importance of technology, and the necessity of changing societal attitudes. The conversation also highlights strategies for small businesses to promote inclusivity without incurring substantial costs. The episode underscores the broader definition of disability and the significant progress needed to close the disability employment and pay gaps.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:36 Understanding Aphasia
01:13 Meet Sarah Petherbridge: Disability Trainer and Speaker
02:19 Sarah's Journey and Business
03:02 Challenges and Changes in Disability Inclusion
06:17 Employment Gaps and Workplace Adjustments
19:39 The Role of Technology in Disability Inclusion
20:30 Social Perceptions and Personal Experiences
31:29 Future Outlook and Final Thoughts
32:51 Conclusion and Resources

https://www.sarahpetherbridge.co.uk

Support the show

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This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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In this episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue,' hosts Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons welcome Talia Lazarus, a presenter, broadcaster, and host of the mental health podcast, 'I Got Back Up.' Talia shares her harrowing story of a devastating electric scooter accident in 2021, which resulted in serious leg injuries and an 18-month rehabilitation journey. She discusses her physical and mental recovery, overcoming multiple surgeries, and even achieving the incredible feat of running a half marathon only 10 months post-surgery. The conversation delves into the power of mindset, the significance of embracing fears, and the transformative journey that led Talia to a successful career in sports broadcasting and mental health advocacy. With heartfelt anecdotes and insightful advice, this episode underscores the importance of resilience, community, and self-belief.

00:00 Introduction to Talia Lazarus' Journey
00:48 Understanding Aphasia
01:49 The Accident and Immediate Aftermath
03:59 The Road to Recovery
05:58 Running a Half Marathon
09:29 Starting the Podcast
13:56 Career as a Presenter and Broadcaster
21:44 Embracing Positivity and Overcoming Challenges
31:43 Reflections and Future Plans
36:56 Closing Remarks and Farewell

Support the show

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This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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Understanding Acquired Brain Injuries: Challenges and Support Systems plus Returning to Work

In this episode, Jonathan interviews Tamsin Keyes, the Publications and Research Manager at HEADWAY, the Brain Injury Association. Tamsin provides an in-depth explanation of what constitutes a brain injury, ranging from traumatic incidents to medical complications like strokes and aneurysms. She also outlines the difficulties individuals face when returning to work post-injury, including cognitive challenges and workplace accommodations. The discussion highlights the hidden nature of brain injuries and the importance of awareness, support, and legal rights under the Equality Act. Tamsin also shares resources and services provided by HEADWAY, including their helpline, local support groups, and vocational rehabilitation options. The episode aims to raise awareness and offer practical advice for individuals affected by brain injuries and their families.

00:00 Introduction to HEADWAY and Brain Injury
00:28 Understanding Brain Injuries
02:50 Challenges of Returning to Work
08:14 Support Systems for Employment
14:37 HEADWAY's Services and Support
23:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

www.headway.org.uk

www.acas.org.uk

www.gov.uk/government/collections/disability-confident-campaign

www.jobcentreguide.co.uk/about-disability-employment-advisors

www.gov.uk/guidance/equality-act-2010-guidance

www.vrassociationuk.com/resources-for-individuals

www.ncvo.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-opportunities

Support the show

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This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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Overcoming Aphasia: The Journey of Graham Hall

In this episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue,' hosts Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons discuss aphasia with Graham Hall, an orchestral percussionist who suffered a stroke a decade ago. Graham shares his experiences dealing with aphasia, its impact on his career, and the challenges of regaining his speech and musical abilities. Despite losing the joy in playing music, Graham found fulfilment in music arrangement and preparation. The discussion touches on brain injury recovery, neuroplasticity, and the importance of continuous practice. Graham's story aims to raise awareness about aphasia and encourages support for individuals with brain injuries.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Story
00:34 Welcome to the Podcast
00:52 Understanding Aphasia
01:45 Graham Hall's Stroke Experience
03:20 Challenges in Music Post-Stroke
06:00 Reconnecting with Music
10:07 Living with Aphasia
14:31 Raising Awareness and Support
27:58 The Role of Family and Friends
29:55 Creative Coping Mechanisms
33:06 Conclusion and Resources

Before my stroke (2014) I used parody to comment/mock the situation in my musical life.
So I've been using that to describe my new life with aphasia. The lyrics are "contrafactum" (the substitution of text for another without change to the music) and comment on how I cope with brain damage and aphasia. The irony is that despite having musical anhedonia I'm still a musician!

https://grahamhall.bandcamp.com

Amongst other books , Graham recommends Musicophilia

[ https://www.oliversacks.com/oliver-sacks-books/musicophilia-oliver-sacks/]

Support the show

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This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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Surviving Stroke and Navigating Aphasia: Nigel's Story

This podcast episode titled 'On the Tip of My Tongue' features Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons discussing aphasia, a language impairment often caused by a stroke or brain injury. They interview Paula Fearnley and Nigel Cheffers-Heard to hear Nigel's journey of recovering from a stroke that resulted in aphasia. Paula shares her challenges as a caregiver, their struggles with the healthcare system, and Nigel's progress over six years. The episode explores the social and occupational difficulties faced by aphasia patients and highlights the importance of community support, exercise, and persistence in recovery. It concludes by addressing the need for better workplace integration for those affected by aphasia.

00:00 A Shocking Turn of Events
00:29 Introduction to the Podcast
00:47 Understanding Aphasia
01:25 Nigel's Stroke Journey
04:07 The Struggle for Diagnosis
07:42 Recovery and Rehabilitation
10:57 Challenges in Daily Life
25:16 Returning to Work
31:58 Supporting Stroke Survivors
36:57 Conclusion and Resources

Say Aphasia Exeter

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This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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Emma Rich: Battling Aphasia and Advocating for Neuro Rehab

In this episode, Emma Rich, Charity Coordinator at Say Aphasia, shares her harrowing journey with severe brain injury and subsequent aphasia. She recounts her critical medical emergency, rehabilitation experiences, and the crucial role of neuroplasticity in her recovery. Emma discusses the importance of speech therapy, community support groups, and the uneven access to rehabilitation services. Advocating for better support and employment opportunities for brain injury and stroke survivors, Emma emphasizes the need for education, hope, and inclusive societal attitudes toward individuals with neurological conditions.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:16 Emma's Brain Hemorrhage Experience
01:51 Recovery Journey Begins
03:45 Rehabilitation and Neuroplasticity
05:58 Challenges and Support Systems
10:21 Involvement with Say Aphasia
18:43 Employment and Inclusivity
29:34 Hope and Rehabilitation
31:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Say Aphasia website: https://www.sayaphasia.org

Copyright © 2025 Jonathan Hirons/Buffalo Lounge Studios All Rights Reserved.

This film/video/podcast is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or transmission of this material is prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact hello@buffalolounge.co.ukCopyright © 2025 Jonathan Hirons/Buffalo Lounge Studios All Rights Reserved.

Support the show

Support the show: Donate Now

This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org

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Overcoming Aphasia and the Importance of Carers

In this episode, the host reflects on past events and highlights key themes such as surviving a critical health incident in Las Vegas, the significant role of communication in recovery from strokes, and the challenges and strategies for living with aphasia. The episode also emphasizes the importance of unpaid carers, their economic contribution, and the need for perseverance in finding effective communication methods post-injury. The narrative draws an analogy to living in a foreign country to convey the experience of aphasia, highlighting its often hidden nature and the frustration of not being recognized for having a serious condition.

00:00 Reflecting on Past Episodes
00:10 A Harrowing Experience in Las Vegas
00:40 The Importance of Communication Post-Stroke
00:52 Meet Pete Cody: A Story of Resilience
01:05 Tips for a Healthy Brain
01:31 The Role and Impact of Unpaid Carers
02:07 Understanding Aphasia: A Hidden Disability

Support the show

Support the show: Donate Now

This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk

To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com

http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org