We're Not Stumped | Survival Stories, Disability Stories & Recovery Journeys Podcast

 In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland shares his candid thoughts on Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month — and why he believes awareness shouldn't be limited to just one month a year. Born without a right hand, Mike reflects on his lived experiences and how, for decades, many didn’t pay attention to people like him until they themselves became part of the limb loss community. 

He challenges listeners to think beyond temporary awareness campaigns and to embrace year-round inclusion, visibility, and support — not just when it becomes personal. 🎙️ 

A powerful episode about perspective, honesty, and the need for ongoing understanding.

#LimbLossAwareness #LimbDifference #EverydayInclusion #WereNotStumped #AmputeeCommunity #RealTalk 

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 In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Dr. Stephanie Cawthon, a disabled author, speaker, and researcher, to discuss her groundbreaking new book, Disability as Human. As a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and the founder of the National Disability Center for Student Success, Stephanie wears many professional "hats" in her mission to advance accessibility and disability inclusion. 

Beyond individual experiences, Stephanie and Mike explore the importance of systems-level work in accessibility. Stephanie highlights the need for proactive and sustainable solutions that bring disabled students into the heart of decision-making. She also delves into the challenges and rewards of driving meaningful, large-scale change. 

Join us for an insightful discussion that redefines how we view disability and inclusion in education and beyond! Links: 

Dr. Stephanie W. Cawthon, PhD website: https://stephaniecawthon.com/ 

Disability Is Human: The Vital Power of Accessibility in Everyday Life: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1954233299?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_XTM4YH10Y3CJTZ2KQ2VX 

#disability #deaf

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 Ana L. Reyes’ story is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and service. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Ana has dedicated her life to her family, community, and ministry. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she has also spent 20 years shaping young minds as a teacher. Alongside her husband, Rev. Marc Reyes, she has led Good Shepherd Ministries Church in West Haven, CT, for nearly two decades. 

In 2017, Ana was diagnosed with cancer, and three years later, she became an amputee. But her faith never wavered. Now an ordained minister, she continues to travel on missionary trips, serve her community, and inspire others through her book, Still Standing: An Amputee’s Story of Hope—a powerful testament to overcoming adversity through faith. 

Join us as Ana shares her incredible story of perseverance, proving that even in life’s greatest challenges, hope and faith can keep us standing. 

Still Standing: An Amputee's Story of Hope: https://www.amazon.com/Still-Standing-Amputees-Story-Hope/dp/B0DW1X3YXQ 

#limbloss #amputationrecovery #abovekneeamputation, #adaptiveliving #prostheticleg #amputeeresilience

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 In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland highlights two powerful stories of perseverance, athleticism, and community support. First, we dive into the journey of a local teen who is redefining the game of softball. After undergoing a double amputation, she hasn’t just adapted—she’s excelling, competing at a high level, and proving that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. Her story is an inspiration to athletes and amputees alike, showing that the love of the game knows no limits. 

Next, we spotlight A Leg Forever, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting amputees and their families. A Leg Forever Charitable Foundation was established by Elizabeth (Liz) Norden in honor of her two sons JP and Paul Norden who each lost a leg in the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15, 2013. The foundation's mission is to pay it forward and assist other amputees in their time of need just as JP and Paul were helped with overwhelming support following the marathon bombings. Their work ensures that individuals facing limb loss have the support they need to navigate their journeys with confidence. 

Tune in for an uplifting conversation that celebrates the strength of the human spirit, the importance of representation in sports, and the life-changing impact of organizations like A Leg Forever. Whether you’re an athlete, an amputee, or someone who loves a great comeback story, this episode is for you! 

A Leg Forever: https://www.alegforever.com/ 

Amputee Softball Star: https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52615126/local-teen-with-double-amputation-turns-heads-in-competitive-softball-world 

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 In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Michael Allison, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Purple Heart recipient, best-selling author, and globally recognized leadership expert. As the CEO of The Adversity Academy, Michael has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations embrace resilience, accountability, and leadership. He shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, the lessons learned in high-pressure combat zones, and his groundbreaking UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle – 3D methodologies. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity, breaking limitations, and unlocking your full leadership potential. 

Link: 

Michael W. Allison Website: https://michaelwallison.com/ 

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Want to be considered as a guest?  Fill out the form here: https://werenotstumped.com/podcast-guest-information/

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In this episode of We're Not Stumped, we highlight two remarkable stories of resilience and determination. First, we dive into the journey of Parker Byrd, the East Carolina University baseball player who became the first NCAA baseball athlete to play with a prosthetic leg. After a life-altering boating accident, Parker refused to let his dream slip away, proving that perseverance can redefine what’s possible in sports.

Next, we explore the incredible impact of the Kirstie Ennis Foundation. Founded by Marine veteran and amputee Kirstie Ennis, the foundation empowers individuals through outdoor adventures, education, and support for adaptive athletes. Kirstie, who lost her leg in a helicopter crash while serving in Afghanistan, has since become a world-class mountaineer and advocate for those facing adversity.

Join host Mike Bolland as he shares these powerful stories of overcoming obstacles, breaking barriers, and inspiring others to push beyond their limits. Whether it's stepping up to the plate or scaling mountains, Parker and Kirstie prove that limb loss is not the end—it's just the beginning of a new chapter. Tune in for an episode filled with courage, ambition, and hope!

Parker Byrd Story: https://www.outkick.com/sports/baseball-parker-byrd-east-carolina-prosthetic-leg

The Kirstie Ennis Foundation: https://kirstieennisfoundation.com/

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 Linda Moore doesn’t just want to walk again—she wants to dance. In this inspiring episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Linda, a 69-year-old from Rantoul, Illinois, whose determination and humor carried her through a challenging above-knee amputation and intense rehabilitation. After losing her leg in November 2024, she underwent three weeks of rigorous therapy at OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical Center, learning to balance, strengthen her residual limb, and regain mobility. 

Linda’s therapist, Deidre Murphy, recalls her positive attitude, resilience, and ability to turn even difficult moments into fun, making her an unforgettable patient. Now Linda is preparing to take the next step—adjusting to a prosthetic leg. She knows the journey isn’t easy, but with her unwavering optimism, she’s determined to dance her limitations away. 

Tune in for an uplifting conversation about perseverance, the power of a positive mindset, and why Linda believes attitude is everything.

 #LimbLoss #Resilience #NeverGiveUp #adaptiveliving 

Links: OSF Healthcare - https://www.osfhealthcare.org/ 

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 In this special episode of We’re Not Stumped, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Eric William Gabriel, PhD, a remarkable individual who recently passed away. Eric was a two-time guest on the We're Not Stumped podcast. 

A bi-lateral, above-knee amputee, Eric’s journey was one of resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. From his early days playing baseball and competitive softball to his transformative experience with adaptive rowing, Eric never let adversity define him. 

After years of painful injuries led to the loss of both legs, Eric found new purpose in the sport of rowing, competing in the World Indoor Rowing Adaptive Championships and even earning a silver medal. His strength and perseverance inspired countless others, proving that challenges can be turned into opportunities. 

Though he is no longer with us, his story will continue to inspire and uplift those facing their own obstacles. Rest in peace, Eric—you will be deeply missed. 

Links: 

We're Not Stumped S3 E1 Eric Gabriel: https://werenotstumped.com/were-not-stumped-bilateral-above-knee-amputee-podcast-s3-e1-eric-gabriel/ 

We're Not Stumped S4 E3 Eric Gabriel: https://werenotstumped.com/were-not-stumped-with-dr-eric-gabriel-bilateral-above-knee-amputee-podcast/ 

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Golf should be accessible to everyone, and VertaCat is making that a reality with the VertaCat Golf Cart! In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Steve Doudt to discuss how this revolutionary adaptive golf cart is changing the game for individuals with mobility challenges.

Steve, a bilateral above-the-knee amputee due to a motorcycle accident in 1992, has an inspiring journey of resilience and determination. After serving in the USAF 1721st Combat Control Squadron, Special Operations Team, he transitioned into adaptive sports, including wheelchair basketball and sitting volleyball, even competing in the 1996 and 2000 Paralympic Games. In recent years, Steve has embraced golf, achieving significant success in adaptive tournaments. The VertaCat has been instrumental in his golfing journey, allowing him to stand and swing freely, enhancing his performance on the course.

Beyond golf, Steve has dedicated over 18 years as a full-time official in the National Wheelchair Basketball Association, traveling nationwide to inspire and mentor others. Join us as we delve into Steve's multifaceted career, the impact of the VertaCat on adaptive sports, and his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and innovation. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about inclusion, innovation, and the future of golf! ⛳♿ #AdaptiveGolf #VertaCat #inclusivesports

Links

VertaCat: https://vertacat.com/

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In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Tim Balz, founder and CEO of Kalogon, (https://www.kalogon.com) to discuss how cutting-edge technology is improving mobility and independence for wheelchair users. 

Tim’s journey started in high school when he began refurbishing wheelchairs to help people in need. That passion evolved into a career in assistive technology, leading to the creation of Kalogon—a company developing AI-powered smart cushions designed to prevent pressure injuries and enhance comfort for wheelchair users. These cushions actively redistribute pressure, helping to reduce the risk of pressure sores, discomfort, and long-term health complications that many wheelchair users face. 

Throughout the conversation, Tim shares the inspiration behind Kalogon, the science behind its smart cushions, and how his team is using technology, data, and user feedback to create innovative solutions. He also discusses the future of mobility technology, including how AI and personalized care can further improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. 

Mike and Tim also explore the challenges of starting a company in the accessibility space, the importance of inclusive design, and how Kalogon is working alongside healthcare professionals and wheelchair users to bring life-changing innovations to the mobility community. 

Tune in for an insightful conversation about innovation, advocacy, and the future of assistive technology. Whether you're a wheelchair user, a caregiver, or simply interested in groundbreaking advancements in mobility, this episode is packed with valuable insights! 

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Want to be considered as a guest?  Fill out the form here: https://werenotstumped.com/podcast-guest-information/

Learn more about our host Mike Bolland: https://mikebolland.com/