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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

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

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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

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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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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

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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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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/]

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

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

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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.

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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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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

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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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Journey Through Aphasia: An Interview with Colin Lyle

In this episode of the On the Tip of My Tongue podcast, Colin Lyle, founder of the Say Aphasia charity, shares his powerful journey from experiencing a stroke and developing aphasia to actively supporting others with the condition. Colin talks about his stressful lifestyle that led to his stroke, the challenges he faced during recovery, and his efforts in starting the Say Aphasia charity. The episode covers the importance of speech and language therapy, the challenges of living with aphasia, and the mission to raise awareness and support for those affected. Colin’s inspiring story highlights the significance of community and peer support in navigating life with aphasia.

00:00 Introduction to Aphasia
02:22 Colin's Stroke and Initial Challenges
03:45 Speech and Language Therapy Journey
07:47 Founding Say Aphasia Charity
12:04 Expanding the Charity and Overcoming Hurdles
23:09 Future Plans and Reflections
31:33 Conclusion and Resources

Say Aphasia

The Say Aphasia Charity provides supportive drop-in groups for people with aphasia in the UK. It is run by people with aphasia for people with aphasia.

Aphasia is not a well known condition and so people with this communication disability can feel alone and isolated from their community.

Our aim is to provide continuous support in a social environment with people who are experiencing similar life changes.

Our charity makes a difference to people living with aphasia by:

• Offering companionship and support
• Helping to adjust to living with aphasia.
• Meeting people who are experiencing a similar life change.
• Making new life long friends.
• Gaining tips and advice from others with aphasia.
• Gaining confidence to socialise and communicate as best they can.
• Re-gaining independence as much as they can.
• Helping to reduce loneliness.
• Providing support in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
• Offering art class and singing class as a therapeutic way to relax and express themselves.

#AphasiaAwareness

#StrokeRecovery

#SayAphasia


https://www.sayaphasia.org

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

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

The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website

http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org