In this episode of Spinal Cast, we explore what it really means to meet someone where they are on their recovery journey. Our guests, Beth Reeves, a clinical social worker and Vanessa Jewell, an occupational therapist from The Institute of Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Memorial Herman Outpatient Rehabilitation, share how support groups and learning new skills – whether over Zoom or in person opens doors to new confidence and connection after an injury.

They discuss how peer-to-peer connections spark inspiration, celebrate shared victories, and make daunting transitions feel doable. From learning new technologies to adapting to a new way of living, the friendships formed in these spaces create a community that says, “you’re not alone.”

This conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to go down an unfamiliar road by yourself – you’ve got friends who’ve been there, and they’ve got your back.

TIRR Memorial Hermann Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: https://memorialhermann.org/services/treatments/spinal-cord-injury-rehabilitation

Bios for Beth and Vanessa can be found here: https://mcpf.org/tirr-bios/.

Special thanks to Beth and Vanessa for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Does attitude matter? Just ask Hunter Pinke. In this episode of Spinal Cast, we sit down with Hunter Pinke – a proud, small town North Dakotan athlete with a universal message. After a skiing accident changed his life, Hunter chose to rise, not retreat. With a big heart and an unwavering positive outlook, he’s turned adversity into purpose – helping others face their own challenges with authenticity and grace.

Hunter doesn’t sugarcoat struggle, but he redefines it. His philosophy? One of many: stack good days, and good outcomes will follow. Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation that reminds us all - you’re not alone, and your hardest moments can become your greatest strengths.

Hunter’s personal bio can be found at https://www.hunterpinke.com/

If you want to hear more from Hunter, check out his podcast, Sit Down with Hunter Pinke. The first episode dropped on June 25, 2025. Here’s the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5kTdFGHYEU

Special thanks to Hunter for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

Learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we’re joined by Dr. Murray Blackmore – renowned for making complex biology accessible. He breaks down the incredible science behind spinal cord repair, from neurons and axons to the genes that guide regeneration. His groundbreaking research explores how mimicking gene activity could help severed axons reconnect, offering real hope for recovery after spinal cord injury.

We also discuss a critical issue: potential cuts to NIH and federal research funding. Dr. Blackmore shares what’s at stake if these cuts go through – and why the future of innovation depends on continued support.

This is a must listen!

A professional bio for Dr. Blackmore can be found here: https://www.marquette.edu/biomedical-sciences/directory/murray-blackmore.php

Special thanks to Dr. Blackmore for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we shine the spotlight on the 44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games, coming to Minneapolis from July 17-22, 2025. Hosted by the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs, this event is the largest adaptive sports and rehabilitation competition for U.S. military veterans with disabilities.

Our guest is Seth Thomas, President of the Minnesota Chapter of the PVA and a U.S. Navy veteran. Seth shares his powerful story – from his service and injury to his leadership role – and gives us an inside look at what makes these games so special.

Over 700 athletes will compete across 20+ events, supported by thousands of volunteers. Participants include veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions requiring the use of a wheelchair.

The Minnesota PVA plays a vital role in veteran advocacy, employment connections, legislation, and community engagement and, of course, providing a network of support and opportunity through sport.

If you’re in the Minneapolis area, don’t miss this inspiring six-day celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and athletic excellence. It’s like a mini-Paralympics, complete with Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals – a true showcase of American heroes from every military branch and era.

For more information, check out the links below:

National Veterans Wheelchair Games - https://wheelchairgames.org/

2025 Game Schedule - https://wheelchairgames.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/44th-NVWG-Sch-Wkbk-V2.xlsx03.10.pdf

2025 Venues - https://wheelchairgames.org/about/event-venues/

Paralyzed Veterans of American – Minnesota Chapter - https://mnpva.org/

Special thanks to Seth for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we’re chatting with Dr. Isaura Martins about some seriously cool science. Her lab is digging into the world of pericytes - not the spooky creature, but a real type of cell that plays a big role in protecting the vascular barrier in the spinal cord during injury and repair.

We discuss why pericytes are critical in spinal cord recovery and how winning the Wings of Life Foundation Research Award helped kickstart her lab. We also learn about her passion for mentoring women in science through the World Women in Neuroscience.

She’s not just a rockstar researcher - she’s helping shape the future of neuroscience and making the case for why supporting science benefits everyone. Turns out pericytes aren’t spooky at all.

Special thanks to Dr. Martins for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Links of interest associated with this episode:

Neurotrauma Lab (Isaura Martins, PhD): http://www.imartinslab.com/

World Women in Neuroscience - https://worldwomenneuro.org/

Bio for Isaura Martins, PhD follows:

Dr. Isaura Martins has a degree in Biochemistry from University of Coimbra, Portugal, where she also did her Masters. It was during this time that she fell in love with Neuroscience. This led to a Bachelor and Master Thesis at the Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology - CNC, where she worked with cell culture of hippocampal neurons and leptin and ghrelin as neuroprotector agents against neurotoxicity of Abeta Oligomers. She then pursued a PhD in Neuroscience at University of Manchester, UK, exploring the role of high-fat diets in the triple transgenic model of Alzheimer´s as well as its impact on blood brain barrier and memory. She returned to Portugal in 2015 as a postdoctoral fellow at Leonor Saúde’s Lab at Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM) and started to work on spinal cord injury, where she implemented the contusion mouse model. In 2024 Dr. Martins started her own laboratory at Católica Medical School - Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health, where she focuses on neurovascular components of the blood spinal cord barrier and their role in spinal cord repair.

Some people are natural athletes. They take risks and love that adrenaline high. Scott Hogsett is one of those people. After a life-changing accident left him quadriplegic in his first year of college, Scott refused to let it define his future. Instead, he pushed the limits – physically and mentally – becoming a powerhouse in the world of adaptive sports. A three-time Team USA Paralympic Wheelchair Rugby medalist, Scott clinched GOLD at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, China (Bronze in 2004 - Greece and 2012 - England.) Yet Scott’s ultimate reward was being inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame. Now retired from competition his impact hasn’t dwindled. He dedicates his time mentoring hundreds of patients recovering from spinal cord injuries through the Barrow Connector Mentorship Program. In this episode Scott shares his incredible story, proving that life’s challenges are just opportunities in disguise.

Scott’s Biography: https://mcpf.org/scott-hogsett/

Special thanks to Scott for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we dive into the research of Dr. Marina Martinez, Associate Professor at the Département de Neurosciences at Université de Montréal. Dr. Martinez shares her journey into neuroscience and how her passion led her to focus on spinal cord injury research.

With an in-depth understanding of the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt, she discusses the complex process of transforming ideas into viable treatments for paralysis. From the mechanical science behind spinal cord injury to the intricate design of safe, effective therapies, Dr. Martinez explains how her team uses electrical stimulation to bypass damaged pathways and stimulate both the brain and peripheral nervous system with precise timing, frequency, and duration to mimic natural movement. The path to success has been a long one, filled with years of trial and error, but the results from her lab are extraordinary.

Dr. Martinez also talks about some hurdles facing spinal cord injury research such as gaining a deeper understanding of the spinal cord’s complex network, accelerating animal-to-human translation, and the ever-present challenge of securing funding for this important work.

This episode is a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion of those on the frontlines of spinal cord injury research—true heroes pushing the boundaries of science to offer hope and healing to those living with paralysis.

Special thanks to Dr. Martinez for being our guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we sit down with Bryan Everett, CEO of MobilityWorks, a leader in accessibility solutions for individuals with mobility challenges. From in-home lifts to custom fitted vehicles, MobilityWorks is at the forefront of innovation, addressing a wide range of needs. Bryan shares how the industry is dealing with new technologies and the importance of understanding and educating a diverse client base. He also discusses how MobilityWorks helps clients navigate the financial landscape for some of these life-changing purchases. With a mission to empower wheelchair users with mobility, independence, and personal freedom, this conversation highlights the importance of this industry and their work.

Learn more about MobilityWorks here: https://www.mobilityworks.com/

Special thanks to Bryan for being today’s guest! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Bio for Bryan Everett

Bryan Everett, Chief Executive Officer, MobilityWorks, the nation’s leading retail provider of wheelchair accessible vehicles and mobility equipment. Previously, Mr. Everett served as Chief Operating Officer at Rite Aid Corporation, Senior Vice President of Store Operations at Target Corporation and held leadership positions at Aldi Foods and Fleming Wholesale.

Bryan and his wife have two grown children. His interests include time with family, golf, car and truck enthusiast, real estate, and cryptocurrency. He also serves as a Deacon at his church.

It’s a small world after all! In this episode of Spinal Cast, Kevin Hoaglund Jr., Maya Robles, and Marisa Valenti share their personal journey of growing up in New Jersey with a parent paralyzed by spinal cord injury. These three adult children reflect on their unique experiences, navigating childhood, adolescence, and adulthood while providing insight into what it means to grow as individuals in a family dynamic that includes caregiving.

With humor, heart, and honesty, they share lessons learned and personal perspective of what’s always been normal for them. Tune in to hear their fascinating stories – because life is truly full and interesting.

Special thanks to Kevin, Maya, and Marisa for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Short bios follow:

Maya Robles

A New Jersey native, holds a degree in Environmental Policy from Rutgers University. After working with the environmental nonprofit Sourland Conservancy, she launched her own business, MAR Bookkeeping, where she helps small business owners prevent stress at tax time and take the worry out of finances. For the past eight years, Maya has also shared her passion for dance, teaching at the Rutgers Swing Dance Club, and recently, teaching Lindy Hop classes for people who are blind or visually impaired. In her free time, she loves cooking, spending time in nature, and learning about native plants.

Marisa Valenti

Marisa is a New Jersey native and Travel Physical Therapist, currently working throughout the west coast. Her interests lay in Neurologic Physical Therapy, but has experience in every setting from team sports to inpatient rehabilitation. She loves to rock climb, hike, travel, exercise, and is always up for a new adventure anywhere in the world.

Kevin Hoaglund, Jr.

Born and raised in New Brunswick, NJ. Received a Sports Management degree from James Madison University in and holds a Masters Business degree in Education from Montclair State University. He has been teaching high school for eight years (New Brunswick High, Becton Regional High) and coaches JV Baseball, Varsity Swimming, and JV Baseball.

Meet Ethan Glynn and Parker Durkin, brothers who love the game of football even after a life-altering tackle left Ethan, then a freshman, with a C4 spinal cord injury. In this episode of Spinal Cast, we hear about a journey of resilience, acceptance, and adaptation, as they navigate life after injury. Through candid conversation, they open up about unwavering family and friend support, the determination to push forward, and how that life-changing injury birthed the Just Be Gr8 Foundation, two years after Ethan’s injury. Focused on supporting those facing medical crises, advancing spinal cord injury research, and providing hope for others. Join us for an unforgettable story of strength, recovery, and the unstoppable bond of family.

Access more information about Just Be Gr8 Foundation here: https://justbegr8foundation.org/

Bios for Ethan and Parker can be found here: https://mcpf.org/justbegr8_bios/

Special thanks to Ethan and Parker for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!

Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3v

If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/

Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/