Rich and Lizzie’s story is still very recent. Just five months ago, in October 2025, Rich had a stroke and was diagnosed with aphasia, instantly turning their world upside down. Even in that short time, he’s already made real progress through hard work and consistency.

Lizzie has been all-in on his recovery from the start, and their 8-year-old son Richie has been a huge source of motivation. It’s clear this is something they’re taking on together as a family.

By sharing their journey, they’ve started gaining traction on social media, even catching the attention of Dunkin’ Donuts along with other media and print outlets.

This is a really special episode for us, because Roger was once where Rich is now, and it’s a reminder of how far recovery can go and the hope that comes with it.

Tristan Gibson, also known as “Captain Orangutan,” is a stroke survivor, mindset leader, and coach who has completely redefined what recovery can look like. After experiencing a life-altering stroke at a young age, Tristan refused to accept limits. Instead of staying stuck in the question of “why me,” he shifted his perspective to “why not me” — choosing to become the person who could take this challenge head-on and use it to help others.

Through relentless work, belief in neuroplasticity, and a commitment to growth, Tristan has rebuilt his life in a way that most people wouldn’t think possible. If you spoke to him today, you might not even realize everything he’s overcome — and that’s exactly the point. His recovery is a testament to what’s possible with the right mindset, consistency, and support.

Now, as a coach, Tristan works directly with stroke survivors and individuals facing neurological challenges, helping them navigate recovery with structure, purpose, and belief. His philosophy is rooted in ownership, positivity, and pushing beyond perceived limits — not ignoring the struggle, but refusing to be defined by it.

“Cap Orangutan” isn’t just a nickname — it represents resilience, individuality, and embracing the journey, no matter how unconventional it looks.

We’re honored to share his story and his message, as he continues to inspire and guide others through one of the hardest battles a person can face.

Check him out_

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captain_orangutan?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Coaching: https://www.skool.com/the-orangutan-way-8853/about?ref=9520f8641f924a0ab8e2aa1f072115ec

In this episode, Justin and Roger are joined by Susan Hakimi, the head speech pathologist at Northridge Hospital Medical Center and the speech therapist who first worked with Roger during the earliest days of his recovery in the hospital. Susan shares how she got into speech pathology and explains the critical role speech therapists play in the immediate aftermath of a stroke.

Together, they discuss what happens during inpatient speech therapy, how clinicians evaluate communication after a stroke, and why conditions like aphasia affect speech and language the way they do.

Susan also offers insight into the early milestones therapists look for, the challenges patients face in those first days, and how families can support a loved one navigating stroke recovery.

Through both professional expertise and personal perspective, this conversation sheds light on where the recovery journey truly begins for many stroke survivors.