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Maddi Niebanck
The Special spotlight guest of today’s episode is Maddie, a passionate advocate for stroke survivors who has turned her personal journey into a transformative platform for change. After experiencing a life-altering stroke, Maddie took the lessons she learned during her recovery and channeled them into her book, Fast Fwd: The Fully Recovered Mindset. This compelling work outlines the steps and mindset that helped Maddie rebuild her life and has provided invaluable insight to countless stroke survivors.
Last year, Maddie expanded her advocacy further by launching Fast Fwd Summits, in-person events designed to connect stroke survivors and caregivers, fostering a strong and supportive community. These events have been a game-changers for many, offering the resources, hope, and guidance that are so often needed on the road to recovery.
Maddie’s journey also led to her choosing the name "Stroke of Luck" for her advocacy platform. Maddie's journey inspired her to choose the name "Stroke of Luck" for her advocacy platform. In today’s show, she will explain the powerful reasons behind this name and how it reflects her belief in turning a life-changing experience into an opportunity for growth, hope, and strength. Interestingly, that’s the name we’ve chosen too!
We are thrilled to welcome back two dear friends of the show who are also part of our extended family – Katonya Rochester, the founder of Glorified Bodies Fitness, LLC, and Barry Rochester, co-founder of the fitness company and an inspiring figure in the world of self-defense and wellness.
Katonya Rochester, a certified personal fitness trainer and group exercise instructor, has dedicated her career to helping individuals achieve their health and fitness goals in holistic and meaningful ways. Through Glorified Bodies Fitness, Katonya’s focus is on making fitness fun, stress-relieving, and educational. As an award-winning author of Joyful Cooking – Healthy Kat-Delicious Meals Made Easy, she shares her philosophy of healthy living through delicious, accessible meals. Her holistic approach to wellness has empowered countless individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Barry Rochester, with his impressive background as a 3rd-degree Black Belt in Combat Jujitsu and a first-degree Samurai sword expert, brings a unique perspective to fitness and self-defense. A certified personal trainer and group exercise instructor, Barry’s dedication to fitness is complemented by his vast experience teaching police officers, correctional officers, and bodyguards. As a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, Barry’s personal history and commitment to helping others has earned him respect and admiration in both the fitness and defense communities. His work, including his role in instructing fitness classes, Tai Chi, and self-defense, provides valuable lessons for physical and mental strength.
Today’s episode of the RenéMarie Stroke of Luck Podcast & TV Show is a truly inspiring one, showcasing a group of individuals who are making a lasting impact in their respective fields. From stroke recovery to fitness, wellness, and self-defense, these guests represent the best of what it means to uplift and inspire others.
We are also excited to share that Ginnie, Maddie, Katonya, and Barry will also be a special part of the Unconditional LOVE Concert, the Stroke & Aphasia Educational Music Fundraiser, happening on April 26, 2025. The concert aims to bring together survivors, caregivers, and advocates in a celebration of hope, love, and the strength that exists within every stroke survivor.
Ginnie, Ralph, and I thank each of our guests for gifting us their time and sharing their powerful stories.
Their dedication to making a difference is truly inspiring and uplifting.
Here we go…. RenéMarie
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