Warts-and-all podcast series about overcoming adversity

Stroke of Luck was developed by Paul to both raise awareness of stroke and aphasia and connect with other people who have faced difficult times after he was given a second chance to make a difference.

He is committed to sharing his story and inspiring others while raising awareness of stroke.

Podcast guests include a mix of people who have also experienced a life-changing stroke and some well-known people who have overcome adversity, including cricketer Michael Klinger, disability champion Graeme Innes and global marathon runner Tristan Miller.

Paul, a father of three, had a stroke at age 34, which left him with aphasia, a condition which impacts all aspects of communication including speech, comprehension, reading and writing. He also experienced paralysis down his right side.

The stroke was a complete surprise - the Melbourne man was a young, fit, health conscious marathon runner. The stroke left him in a coma for two weeks and, despite urgent brain surgery, it was initially a poor prognosis.

But his love of marathon running meant Paul was no stranger to endurance, and he applied that skill to his recovery. In the years since his stroke, Paul has worked hard at his independence, learning to walk, talk, read and write all over again.

Paul has since made it his mission to share his story as a way of helping other survivors of stroke, and to raise awareness that stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, at any time.

The lasting impact of his aphasia is challenging but Paul considers himself fortunate to have a voice through his blog IAmPaulFink, and now this podcast series, Stroke of Luck.

"My attitude to life has changed so much since having my stroke, and I want to share my experience and the experience of others with the audience," Paul said.

Stroke Foundation chief executive officer Sharon McGowan said the generosity of people like Paul and his podcasts guests was heartening.

"There is no support more powerful than that borne out of lived experience. The willingness of Paul and his family to share their experience specifically to help others is quite incredible," Ms McGowan said.

"Paul is an example of someone determined to live well after stroke, his determination has taken him from strength to strength. I can't wait to tune in hear his perspective on the stroke rehabilitation journey, and how other tenacious Australians have worked hard to overcome their own adversities."

The podcast Stroke of Luck will be available from November 9 and can be found on most podcast platforms. New episodes will be released regularly until January 25. To check it out on Listen Notes click here.