From the Diary of Aaron Avila
Aaron Avila is the CEO and Founder of Stroke TV Media, a stroke and brain aneurysm survivor, and a global advocate for survivor empowerment. Through podcasts, digital media, and community engagement, he inspires thousands with his message of resilience, authenticity, and purposeful leadership.
A Life Reawakened
On an ordinary day in 2010, life changed for Aaron Avila with a speed and finality that few ever face. A sudden brain aneurysm, followed by a stroke, upended everything he knew. In the moments before this turning point, he was a strong, capable entrepreneur who thrived on physical work, creative problem-solving, and exploring the depths of the ocean as a certified diver. Afterward, he found himself in a wheelchair, learning to speak again, and wrestling with a new reality that demanded resilience on every level. Yet even in those early days of uncertainty, a spark of purpose began to form. This spark would grow into a mission that would later reach survivors around the world.
Foundation: Roots in Santa Rosa
Aaron grew up in Santa Rosa, California, a community that shaped both his work ethic and his love for active pursuits. Childhood memories of playing baseball remain some of his fondest, symbolizing teamwork, resilience, and the joy of simple moments. These early experiences instilled in him a grounded sense of determination, later strengthened by his studies in the Administration of Justice at Santa Rosa Junior College.
Years later, reflecting on life’s balance, he would share a truth carried from his personal journey: “I don’t think true balance is achievable; rather, we learn to alleviate stress through mindfulness.” That perspective would become a guiding principle in the years to come.
Ascent: A Career Built on Drive and Grit
Before the stroke reshaped his life’s direction, Aaron spent more than a decade building and running successful water storage tank and rainwater harvesting businesses. He handled everything from sales to system design to hands-on physical labor. Entrepreneurship came naturally to him. He didn’t just manage his companies—he worked beside his teams and took pride in pushing limits.
When the stroke arrived without warning at age 47, it challenged every part of his identity. Walking was no longer possible. Speech became difficult. Balance faltered. The anger and frustration were real and deeply felt. But this time of struggle also revealed the extraordinary power of support. His wife, Rebecca, became a pillar of strength, offering encouragement, patience, and love at every step. With her by his side, Aaron discovered an inner resolve he hadn’t yet tapped into.
The experience transformed the trajectory of his life. What could have been the end of his story instead became the beginning of a larger mission.
Impact: Building a Global Voice for Stroke Survivors
Aaron founded Stroke TV Media to ensure that no survivor would ever feel alone in their journey. Over nearly a decade, the platform has grown into a global community offering resources, hope, connection, and most importantly—voice. Through podcasts, streaming shows, and online engagement, Aaron creates a space where survivors can share victories, struggles, and encouragement.
His flagship program, STROKE The Journey Within Podcast, features inspiring survivors from around the world, each Friday at 2pm PST on his Stroke TV Media YouTube Channel. On his Stroke Of Genius Podcast Executive Experience, Aaron showcases CEOs, entrepreneurs, and industry thought leaders. This unique blend of survivor-focused content and high-level executive insight reflects Aaron’s belief that leadership is strengthened by authenticity.
As he often shares, quoting his friend and mentor Jeffrey Hayzlett: “Do you want to be the most powerful person you can be? Learn to be authentic.” This quote resonates deeply with his own journey.
Aaron also draws inspiration from Hayzlett’s book Think Big, Act Bigger, which influenced both his leadership style and mindset. The connection eventually grew into a personal friendship, reinforcing Aaron’s commitment to bold thinking and action.
Through Stroke TV Media, he continues to emphasize faith, gratitude, and the gift of a second chance. Weekly livestreams, community interactions, and survivor stories come together to remind audiences that healing is more than recovery; it’s rediscovery.
A Leader in the Executive World
In addition to leading Stroke TV Media, Aaron serves as an Executive Leader with the C-Suite Network, one of the world’s most trusted communities for senior executives. His role allows him to elevate conversations among decision-makers, contribute to high-level discussions, and spotlight authentic leadership—an approach shaped by his lived experience.
He also extends invitations to global executives through his Stroke of Genius Podcast. His message is clear: the wisdom of leaders has the power to inspire not only organizations but individuals rebuilding their lives after hardship.
Personal Insights That Shape His Journey
Aaron embraces principles that guide both his personal and professional life. One of his strongest messages is rooted in perseverance:
“A relentless mindset will overcome any obstacle in business.”
This isn’t just a philosophy—it’s the framework of his daily life, shaped by the challenges he continues to overcome and the purpose he pursues.
Vision for the Future
Aaron is currently working on his book, Relentless, which will share an even deeper look into the emotional, physical, and spiritual layers of his experience. He envisions a world where stroke survivors feel empowered to reclaim their lives and where leaders recognize the impact of authenticity and resilience.
He hopes to continue expanding Stroke TV Media, providing greater resources, and reaching new global audiences through digital platforms, community-building, and strategic partnerships.
A Legacy of Purpose
Aaron Avila’s journey is one of transformation, courage, and unwavering purpose. What began as a moment of profound loss became the foundation for a life dedicated to lifting others. His story reminds us that strength isn’t measured by what we avoid, but by what we overcome. Every survivor he reaches, every leader he inspires, and every story he shares becomes part of a growing legacy built on compassion, authenticity, and determination.
Editorial Note
Aaron’s path invites each reader to reflect on the power of second chances. His leadership is a reminder that adversity can ignite purpose, and resilience can lead to remarkable impact. His work challenges us to show up authentically, lead with intention, and recognize the strength in every human story.
If you’re a stroke survivor, business leader, or someone seeking renewed purpose, Aaron’s message is clear: keep moving forward, stay resilient, and never underestimate your ability to rise.
