The Perfect Step Podcast: Pathways to Healing

In this moving episode, Alexis Evans and her father, Jerald, share the hardest and most transformative journey of their lives — navigating the aftermath of Alexis’s spinal cord injury.When Alexis first began physical therapy, the progress was slow, and the process often felt pointless. There were days she wanted to give up entirely. But with Gerald by her side — encouraging her through every grueling session — she began to see small victories. Each improvement not only strengthened her physically but also shifted her mindset, helping her discover a resilience she never knew she had.Gerald’s presence wasn’t just emotional support — he was her advocate. Together, they fought the uphill battles of the healthcare system, from pushing insurance companies to cover essential medications and equipment, to insisting on second opinions when something didn’t seem right. Gerald taught Alexis the power of self-advocacy, and their united front became an unshakable force in her recovery.While her family’s love and support have been a constant anchor, Alexis’s determination ultimately comes from within. Her stubbornness, competitive spirit, and refusal to let her injury define her have fueled her fight to keep pursuing her dreams, no matter the obstacles.This is more than a story about injury — it’s a father and daughter’s journey of strength, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond that turns challenges into victories.💬 Share this video to inspire others facing challenges in their own lives.📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more stories of hope and perseverance.#Resilience #SpinalCordInjury #SCIRecovery #FromParalysisToPurpose #DisabilityAwareness #NeverGiveUp #MindsetIsEverything #SelfAdvocacy #WheelStrong #FamilyStrength

In this powerful and inspiring episode of Pathways To Healing, we sit down with James Meza, a former kinesiology student, baseball player, and now a rising star in the world of adaptive bodybuilding and entrepreneurship. After a life-changing spinal cord injury (SCI) in March 2022, James refused to let his diagnosis define his future. Instead, he’s rewriting the playbook — transforming adversity into purpose, power, and possibility.James takes us inside his remarkable journey of resilience, sharing what it was like to step — or rather, roll — into the gym for the first time in his chair, and how he’s carved out his own path in adaptive fitness and physique competitions. He opens up about the physical and mental challenges of training with SCI, the crucial role of safety, and his favorite exercises with and without a gym partner.But James’s story doesn’t stop at the gym doors. He’s also the founder of HSA, a brand born from his passion to motivate and uplift others, and he has his sights set on competing in the Olympics. We dive into how social media has been both a tool and a challenge in building his brand, creating community, and pushing his message forward.Highlights of this episode:💥 James’s first solo gym session post-injury — and how he found the confidence to keep going💥 Favorite adaptive exercises and the tools that keep his training safe💥 How body physique competitions became part of his new chapter💥 The birth and future of his brand, HSA💥 Social media’s role in his journey and building a supportive SCI community💥 Nutrition, discipline, and the mental game of bodybuilding💥 His Olympic dream — where it began, and where it’s headedWhether you’re part of the SCI community, an athlete, an entrepreneur, or someone looking for a dose of real-life motivation, James’s story is packed with insights, grit, and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Pathways To Healing | Special Episode:Hosts Cody Norman & Logan Frye — Behind the Mic on Exercise, Recovery, andthe Future of Paralysis TreatmentIn this very special episode of Pathways To Healing, the microphonesflip — and hosts Cody Norman and Logan Frye take the guest seats!Joining them is Zachary Grech, abroadcast journalism major from the University of La Verne, who leads anengaging and insightful conversation you won’t want to miss.Zachary dives deep with Cody and Logan touncover their personal journeys, motivations, and perspectives on some of thebiggest questions in paralysis recovery and adaptive therapy today. From whyexercise matters for everyone — especially those with neurological injuries —to what makes The Perfect Step standout as a facility, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the heart and mindof the people behind the podcast.Highlightsof this episode: 🎤 WhyCody and Logan got into the field of activity-based therapy 🎤 The transformative power ofexercise for neurological recovery 🎤 What sets The Perfect Stepapart from other recovery facilities 🎤 Reflections on their time atthe University of La Verne 🎤 Hopes and predictions for thefuture of paralysis recovery 🎤 Candid stories, lessonslearned, and why they’re so passionate about the SCI communityThis behind-the-scenes episode is packedwith insights, humor, and heart — giving listeners an inside look at why Pathways To Healing exists and whatdrives its mission.👉 Tune in and meet the voicesbehind the mic as they share their why, their passion, and their dreams for thefuture.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Doug Vincent — a lifelong advocate, broadcaster, and community leader whose story is one of perseverance, purpose, and impact. After contracting polio as an infant, Doug was told he’d never walk or live an independent life. Instead, he proved everyone wrong.From discovering his love for broadcasting through the KiiS Broadcasting Workshop to becoming the voice behind Walk and Roll Live, Doug has spent decades shining a spotlight on disability advocacy, community building, and inclusion. As a board member of Anthesis, Rolling Start, and the Volunteers for Veterans Foundation, Doug’s commitment to service has inspired many.We talk about his journey through childhood surgeries, his early days in radio, his service with Kiwanis and the Inland Empire Car Club Council, and his unwavering dedication to uplifting others. Doug’s passion and authenticity make this episode an unforgettable tribute to resilience and the power of voice.Tune in and be inspired. This is one ride you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Pathways to Healing, we sit down with Lisa Hilborn, Director of Outdoor Adventures and Recreational Therapy at Casa Colina Hospital, to explore the transformative power of adaptive sports. Lisa shares insights from her decades of experience, tackling common misconceptions, breaking down barriers, and highlighting the real-world impact of inclusive recreation.🏀 Key Topics Covered:✅ The biggest challenges in expanding adaptive sports—and how to overcome them✅ How partnerships and community support drive long-term impact✅ The balance between innovation and tradition in adaptive sports programmingFrom the importance of consistency and showing up to the game-changing effects of wheelchair sports on confidence, independence, and quality of life, Lisa’s wisdom is one that all athletes, advocates, and allies need to hear.

In this deeply moving episode of Pathways to Healing, we sit down with Marley Basurto and her mother, Melissa, to talk about their powerful journey of strength, love, and perseverance.After a car accident in 2020 left Marley with a C4-C6 spinal cord injury, her world changed overnight. But through the challenges of recovery, isolation, and adapting to a new reality, one thing remained constant—her mother’s unwavering support. Melissa made the life-altering decision to retire and become Marley’s full-time caregiver, navigating the complexities of both motherhood and caregiving in a way she never imagined.Together, they share:- How their relationship evolved before and after the injury- The challenges and rewards of being both a mother and caregiver- Marley’s biggest accomplishments in recovery- Their advice for families adjusting to life with an SCIThis heartfelt conversation is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and family bonds. Whether you’re a caregiver, someone living with a spinal cord injury, or simply looking for an inspiring story of overcoming life’s toughest moments, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Pathways to Healing, we are honored to welcome Dr. Maya N. Hatch, a leading researcher and Assistant Professor at the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Hatch shares her groundbreaking work in neurorehabilitation, focusing on functional recovery and neuroplasticity in individuals with spinal cord injuries and neurological conditions. Together, we explore the science behind neuroplasticity, how personalized recovery plans can transform lives, and the latest innovations in rehabilitation techniques. Dr. Hatch’s passion for making advanced therapies accessible to everyone shines through as she discusses practical strategies for therapists and rehabilitation centers, and her vision for the future of neurorehabilitation. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a caregiver, or someone living with a spinal cord injury, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of recovery and resilience. Tune in now to hear Dr. Hatch’s inspiring story and expert perspective on the cutting edge of neurorehabilitation!

In this powerful episode, Pathways to Healing kicks off Season 2 with the remarkable Chelsie Hill—a professional dancer, founder of the Rollettes, social media influencer, wife, and devoted mother. Chelsie shares her journey of living with paralysis while building a thriving career, raising her daughter Jaelyn with her husband Jay, and creating a community that has transformed lives across the world. Throughout the conversation, Chelsie opens up about: How she balances personal healing with motherhood and entrepreneurship. The most rewarding moments of growing the Rollettes into a global movement of empowerment. Pivotal moments in her life when she felt like giving up, and what gave her the strength to keep pushing forward. Insights on emotional resilience, the importance of community, and how redefining what’s possible has helped her—and others—reinvent their lives. Chelsie’s story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and purpose. Whether you're seeking motivation, advice on navigating life’s challenges, or just a dose of inspiration, this episode delivers it all. Tune in to hear how Chelsie Hill is building bridges of accessibility, empowerment, and community. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Kathleen Landelius, PT, DPT—an experienced physical therapist, educator, and lifelong advocate for those navigating life after neurological injury. With over 20 years in the field and a deeply personal connection to her work through her brother’s traumatic brain injury, Kathleen brings a rare and authentic perspective on what it means to support patients and families through every stage of the rehab journey.Together, we explore:The biggest shifts in neurological rehab and how they’ve impacted treatment approachesThe challenges of expanding access to advanced therapies like FESWhy clinician education and empowered patients are key to creating changeHow her own family’s experience shaped her career, mindset, and missionWhether you're a clinician, caregiver, family member, or someone on their own recovery path, Kathleen’s insights offer both practical takeaways and a moving reminder of the power of empathy and long-term support in the paralysis community.

In this episode of Pathways to Healing, we sit down with the visionary founder of Zebrafish Neuro, Stephanie Comella, to explore how movement, mindset, and innovation are transforming the spinal cord injury (SCI) recovery journey. With a rich background in Pilates, ABT, and a passion for holistic recovery, Stephanie shares her unique approach to reducing tone and spasms, improving posture, and harnessing the power of fascia to create deeper body connections. We delve into the origins of Zebrafish Neuro — from its humble beginnings to its bold vision for the future — and how it’s providing clients with greater autonomy, ownership, and self-discovery. Stephanie opens up about the emotional complexities of working with the SCI community and how grounding, mentorship, and continuous learning have shaped her personal and professional growth. This conversation offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating recovery, working in rehabilitation, or seeking to understand the true power of movement in healing. Whether you’re a trainer, a client, or a loved one supporting someone with SCI, this episode will leave you inspired to see recovery through a new lens. Key Takeaways: How Pilates and ABT influence recovery for those with SCI The role of fascia in creating body awareness and control Zebrafish Neuro's approach to client autonomy and empowerment The emotional and psychological dynamics of working with the SCI community Stephanie's reflections on grounding, self-discovery, and her personal journey Tune in to hear how Stephanie Comella is building bridges between science, movement, and community to reimagine what’s possible in spinal cord injury recovery. This episode will inspire you to rethink recovery, embrace the power of movement, and recognize that every step — no matter how small — can lead to extraordinary change. Don't miss this transformative conversation on Pathways to Healing!

In this powerful episode of the Pathways to Healing podcast, we sit down with George Hanshaw — a human performance expert, sports psychologist, and Director of E-Learning Operations — to explore how mastering the mind can unlock new levels of recovery, growth, and reinvention. With a career path that spans from aircraft technician in the U.S. Air Force to thought leader in human performance and education, George shares the life lessons and mental frameworks that have fueled his success. He breaks down complex concepts like neuroplasticity, task-specific training, and mental rehearsal, showing how these ideas apply to both physical recovery and personal development. Key Takeaways from This Episode:🎯 Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome – Learn why centering your energy on daily actions, instead of the end result, creates a powerful "internal locus of control" that fuels steady progress.🧠 Harness the Power of Neuroplasticity – Discover how the brain can rewire itself after injury through repetition, sensory feedback, and visualization.🚀 Embrace Lifelong Learning – Hear how George's journey from the Air Force to Lockheed Martin to a Director of E-Learning has taught him the value of curiosity and constant growth.💡 Simple Steps to Reinvent Your Life – George shares his go-to process for mastering new skills, one intentional step at a time. Whether you're navigating recovery, striving for personal growth, or looking for new ways to "reinvent your life," this episode will give you a fresh perspective and practical steps to take control of your journey. Don't just listen — take action. 🎧 Tune in now to hear George's story and start mastering your own process: [Insert Link to Episode] If you’re ready to see how small changes in mindset can lead to life-changing outcomes, this episode is a must-listen. #PathwaysToHealing #PodcastEpisode #PersonalGrowth #Neuroplasticity #MindsetShift #ParalysisRecovery

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Samantha Bosco, a two-time Paralympic bronze medalist and Team USA para-cyclist. Born a congenital double below-knee amputee, Samantha’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. From finding her passion for cycling to conquering international stages like the Paralympic Games and UCI Para-cycling World Championships, Samantha has redefined what’s possible. Join us as we explore Samantha's early love for athletics, her mental and physical training strategies, and the role of community in her success. Discover how she has overcome personal and professional challenges, advocating for accessibility and inclusivity in sports along the way. Samantha shares invaluable advice for aspiring athletes, insights into her daily routine, and her vision for the future of adaptive sports. Whether you're an athlete, an advocate, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode offers a powerful reminder of the strength within us all to overcome and thrive. Key Takeaways: Samantha’s journey to becoming a Paralympic medalist Overcoming adversity and building mental resilience Training adaptations for elite performance in adaptive sports Advocacy for inclusivity and accessibility in athletics Practical advice for individuals facing physical challenges Tune in to celebrate Samantha’s extraordinary achievements and learn how her story can inspire your own journey of resilience and empowerment.

In this episode of Pathways to Healing, we are joined by Rowena Gates, a remarkable entrepreneur and health technology pioneer. Rowena is the Principal and Vice President of Business Development at Eng3 Corporation, where she launched the innovative NanoVi technology—a groundbreaking approach designed to aid cellular recovery and resilience. With a PhD from the University of Washington in international strategic alliances and economic development, Rowena’s journey took an inspiring turn from economics to wellness after a personal neurological injury led her to explore alternative therapies, ultimately aligning with NanoVi. Rowena discusses her personal experiences and the incredible potential of NanoVi in aiding recovery for different populations, including athletes and individuals with neurological injuries. She dives into the science behind NanoVi, its application in exercise and rest, and her vision for its role in health and wellness. She also shares insights into the economic challenges surrounding neurological injuries and what the future holds for NanoVi. Whether you're interested in the science of healing, or simply curious about innovative health tech, Rowena's story and expertise are sure to captivate and inform.

In this inspiring episode of Pathways to Healing, hosts Cody Norman and Logan Frye sit down with Nicole Leasher, the Director of Education and Community Relations Liaison at The Perfect Step. Nicole’s journey into the paralysis community began with a personal connection — a close family friend sustained a spinal cord injury, opening her eyes to the strength and resilience of those living with paralysis. From that moment on, Nicole knew she wanted to be part of this incredible community’s story. During this episode, Nicole shares how working with clients at The Perfect Step has transformed her perspective on life. She opens up about the deep connections she has built with clients, highlighting how their vulnerability and determination have been both inspiring and humbling. Nicole reflects on the power of a simple shift in perspective, explaining how it can lead to life-changing growth. Listeners will gain insight into: Nicole’s personal journey from Project Walk to The Perfect Step The incredible impact of community and peer support in the paralysis recovery process How Nicole balances her roles as a mom, wife, and professional in this demanding but rewarding field Practical advice for those entering the paralysis community for the first time Why fostering meaningful relationships with clients is central to Nicole’s work This episode offers a fresh perspective on emotional healing, personal growth, and finding purpose through connection. Nicole’s story is a powerful reminder that when we change our perspective, we can change our lives — and the lives of those around us. 🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode now to hear Nicole's story and her insights into the paralysis community.

On this episode of Pathways to Healing our hosts, Cody Norman and Logan Frye, sit down with Clayton Roberts, we had the privilege of hearing about his incredible journey as a professional dirt bike rider who, in March 2024, experienced a spinal cord injury (SCI) at the T11/T12 level. Clayton took us through the moments leading up to his injury while competing in the AMA National Hare and Hound Championship in Murphy, Idaho, and the whirlwind transition from Idaho to Casa Colina for rehabilitation. One of the key takeaways from this episode was Clayton’s rapid return to independence, a process he outlined step-by-step. His determination, coupled with adaptive training strategies and techniques, has allowed him to regain not just physical strength but also mental resilience. Clayton spoke in detail about the creative exercises that kept him motivated and the profound impact physical activity had on his recovery, both before and after his injury. Clayton also shared how his support system—family, friends, and the broader SCI community—played a vital role in his recovery. His perspective on the importance of community was especially poignant, as he emphasized how essential it is to surround yourself with people who lift you up during challenging times. Additionally, we delved into how his athlete's mindset—focused on pushing limits and striving for continuous improvement—helped him maintain a positive attitude throughout his rehabilitation. Some standout moments included: Clayton’s reflection on how The Perfect Step (TPS) has been an integral part of his journey, sharing that without TPS, his path might have looked very different. His insights into parenting post-injury and how he prepared both physically and mentally for fatherhood, despite the new challenges. His candid discussion about relationships, both pre- and post-injury, and how his injury reshaped his connections with family, friends, and his significant other. One of the most memorable pieces of advice Clayton offered was for those newly entering the paralysis community: "Focus on the small victories and stay creative with your training." Lastly, Clayton’s advice on reinventing life after injury resonated deeply with listeners. He highlighted the importance of mindset, support, and finding new ways to engage with life, offering a glimpse of hope and practical steps for others navigating similar challenges.

In this episode of Pathways to Healing, hosts Cody Norman and Logan Frye sit down with Hal Hargrave Sr. (Big Hal), father of Hal Hargrave Jr., the founder of The Perfect Step and the Be Perfect Foundation. Big Hal reflects on the life-changing moment when his son’s catastrophic injury occurred and shares his emotional journey as a father navigating through this challenge. Listeners will hear powerful stories about parenting through adversity, balancing work and family, and the entrepreneurial lessons that contributed to the creation of The Be Perfect Foundation. Big Hal discusses the importance of community support, and philanthropy, and how his family found purpose in helping others. This is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, mentorship, and the profound impact of giving back. Tune in to this inspiring episode to gain insights from a father, business owner, and philanthropist who has faced unimaginable challenges and emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and mission.

In this heartfelt episode of Pathways to Healing, Ashley Hutton takes us through her profound journey from a traumatic childhood car accident to becoming a passionate educator and a loving mother, all while managing a spinal cord injury. Ashley discusses the importance of proper medical care post-injury, the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy and motherhood with SCI, and how she's leveraged the power of social media to connect with and learn from the paralysis community. Plus, hear about her experiences with The Perfect Step and her advice for those new to the paralysis community. Join us as Ashley shares her inspiring story and practical tips for reinventing life after injury. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the strength it takes to turn adversity into opportunity.

In this episode of "Pathways to Healing," we sit down with José Perales, a remarkable individual who has turned his life around after a severe spinal cord injury (SCI) at the young age of 15. José shares his experiences of coping with chronic pain, traveling the world, and finding new meaning through physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. He discusses his involvement with The Perfect Step (TPS) and the Triumph Foundation, where he plays a pivotal role as a community partner and support group leader. This episode is packed with insights on the differences between hospital-based training and TPS’s unique approach, accessibility challenges in public spaces, and his journey to becoming a new driver. Whether you’re navigating life with an SCI or supporting someone who is, José’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and community. Key Topics Covered: Frequent Travel Experiences with SCI: Tips and tricks for navigating airports, hotels, and cities around the world with an SCI. Training at Hospitals vs. TPS: A comparison of the different approaches to physical rehabilitation, and why TPS’s method resonates with José. Importance of TPS: How The Perfect Step has impacted José’s physical, emotional, and spiritual healing journey. Coping with Chronic Pain: Techniques José uses to manage his pain, including both conventional and alternative methods. New Driver Experience: José’s journey to getting his driver’s license, and the steps involved in adapting to life as a driver with an SCI. Accessibility in Public Spaces: José’s insights on the accessibility challenges that still exist in public spaces and businesses, and how to navigate them. Role as a Healer and Support Group Leader: How José supports others through his work with TPS and the Triumph Foundation, and his practices in private healing.

In this special two-part episode of the Pathways to Healing podcast, our hosts, Logan Frye and Cody Norman, step out from behind the mic to share their personal journeys. In part two, they delve deeper into their career paths and experiences that led them to The Perfect Step (TPS). Logan and Cody discuss how their backgrounds in kinesiology and baseball at the University of La Verne, along with their connections to Jenna and Hal, shaped their professional lives and brought them to TPS. Listeners will gain insights into their expertise in patterned neural activity recruitment, adaptive exercise modalities, and the unique ways TPS addresses various forms of paralysis. They explore the innovations in the field, such as NVG 291, NeuroLink, and epidural implants, and discuss how TPS helps clients mitigate secondary complications associated with their conditions. Logan and Cody also reflect on the challenges they face in their roles, the importance of individualized client programs, and the rewarding aspects of their work. They answer tough questions from clients, share the hardest parts of their jobs, and explain why they chose this path over traditional physical therapy. Whether you're new to the paralysis community or have been navigating it for years, this episode offers valuable insights, practical advice, and a look into the dedication and passion that drive the team at TPS.

In our next episode of the "Pathways to Healing" podcast, we're excited to welcome a truly inspiring father-son duo, Matt and Lance Durant. This episode promises to be a deep dive into resilience, adaptive training, and the unique bond between a father and his son navigating the challenges of a neurological disorder. About Our Guests: Matt Durant is a celebrated figure in the world of sports conditioning. With over two decades of experience, Matt serves as the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of La Verne. His dedication and expertise were nationally recognized when he was named the National Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in 2017. Matt's career has been defined by his innovative approaches to adaptive training strategies, which cater to athletes of all abilities, ensuring everyone can reach their full potential. Lance Durant, Matt's son, has his own remarkable journey. Living with cerebral palsy, Lance embodies resilience and determination. His experiences provide invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of living with a neurological disorder, making this father-son conversation not just educational but profoundly inspirational. What to Expect in This Episode: In this episode, we will explore: Adaptive Training Strategies: Matt will share his expertise on tailoring training programs to meet individual needs, emphasizing creativity and adaptability. Parenting and Disability: The duo will discuss the unique dynamics of parenting a child with a disability and how Matt has used his professional knowledge to support Lance. The Power of Exercise: We’ll delve into the positive physiological and psychological impacts of exercise, particularly for those with disabilities. Injury Prevention and Recovery: Matt will provide practical advice on preventing injuries and effective recovery strategies for athletes and those engaged in regular physical activity. Join us for an episode filled with heartfelt stories, expert advice, and a look into the lives of two remarkable individuals who exemplify strength and perseverance. Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or someone interested in adaptive training, this episode is packed with insights that can benefit everyone. Stay tuned and be inspired by Matt and Lance Durant’s incredible journey on the next episode of "Pathways to Healing"!