Wheelchair Nerds

In Episode 46 of Wheelchair Nerds, I sit down with Ken Winward, a legend in the TyLite world, to explore the fascinating process of creating custom-designed wheelchairs. With nearly 25 years at TyLite, Ken shares his journey from a temporary job to a lifelong mission of enhancing mobility. We delve into the Creative Mobility Division (CMD), where user-first innovations transform unique requests into reality. Ken discusses the importance of safety, quality, and engineering standards in crafting personalized solutions. Listen as we explore how CMD takes ideas from napkin sketches to fully realized, safe, and functional wheelchairs, ensuring that each chair is tailored to the individual needs of its user. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the art and science behind custom wheelchair design.

Join me, Angie Kiger, on Wheelchair Nerds for Episode 45: Rolling into the Kitchen: Cooking with Gabby DiSalvo. In this engaging episode, I chat with Gabby DiSalvo, a junior at UConn who is making waves with her blog, Cooking on Wheels. Gabby shares her journey of adapting her kitchen to suit her needs as a wheelchair user and discusses the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. We delve into her passion for cooking, sparked during the pandemic, and her dream of hosting a cooking show with a focus on disability advocacy. Gabby also opens up about her transition from a manual to a power wheelchair and how it has impacted her independence. Whether you're a therapist, caregiver, or someone who uses a wheelchair, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in for a lively discussion that might just inspire you to start cooking from your chair.

In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, hosts Angie and Hawken sit down with industry legends and editors Michelle L. Lange and Jean L. Minkel to explore the highly anticipated 2nd edition of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide. Together, they reflect on how far the field has come—from early clinical practices to today’s evidence-informed, client-centered approaches. Hear firsthand the biggest lessons learned over the decades, the evolving role of interdisciplinary teams, and what exciting new content you’ll find in this updated edition.

Join me, Angie Kiger, as we kick off Season 3 of Wheelchair Nerds with Episode 43: Rolling into a New Era. I'm thrilled to introduce our new co-host, Hawken Miller, who brings his unique perspective as a content marketing specialist and wheelchair user. In this episode, we reflect on the journey of Wheelchair Nerds and share exciting plans for the upcoming season. Expect engaging discussions with clinicians, end-users, and designers about the latest in seating and mobility equipment. We'll explore topics like adaptive gaming, smart home technology, and the continuum of care for wheelchair users. Tune in for insightful conversations and stay informed about the ever-evolving world of wheeled mobility. Don't miss out on this new era of Wheelchair Nerds!

In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, we dive deep into the world of product development with Dan Debrah, Vice President of Research and Development at Permobil. Join us as we explore the journey from concept to creation, uncovering how Dan and his team generate ideas, gather invaluable market research, and navigate the challenges of bringing products to life.

In this festive episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Jen Lyman, the Resource Content Manager for the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF). Jen joins us to unveil the newly released 2024 CPF Accessible Holiday Gift Guide—a thoughtfully curated resource designed to make the season brighter and more inclusive for everyone. We discuss exciting new sections, including recommendations for accessible adventures, and spotlight a few beloved fan favorites. Whether you’re shopping for inclusive gifts or seeking holiday inspiration, this episode has something for everyone!

In Episode 39 of Wheelchair Nerds, I delve into the intricacies of drive wheel configurations for power wheelchairs with my guest, Amy Morgan, a leading expert in pediatric mobility. We explore the history and evolution of power wheelchairs, highlighting the unique benefits and challenges of rear-wheel, front-wheel, and mid-wheel drive systems. Amy shares her insights from years of experience in the field, discussing how different configurations can impact maneuverability and user comfort. Whether you're a clinician, a wheelchair user, or someone considering a transition from a manual to a power wheelchair, this episode offers valuable guidance on selecting the best drive wheel option to suit individual needs and lifestyles. Join us for an engaging discussion that aims to empower listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their mobility solutions.

Join me, Angie Kiger, on Wheelchair Nerds for Episode 38: Building Careers: Navigating Employment with a Disability. As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I welcome guests Hawken Miller and Robbie Barbieri to share their unique journeys in the workforce. Hawken, a content marketing specialist with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Robbie, a finance professional with a spinal cord injury, discuss the challenges and triumphs of job hunting with a disability. We explore the importance of finding fulfilling work, the role of vocational rehab, and the power of adaptive technology. Whether you're a job seeker, clinician, or part of the wheelchair community, this episode offers valuable insights and resources to support career development for individuals with disabilities. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking barriers and achieving career success.

In Episode 37 of Wheelchair Nerds, I delve into the crucial topic of ultralightweight wheelchairs and their significance in advocacy. As the political climate heats up in the U.S., I explore why advocating for these highly configurable and tailored wheelchairs is essential for active users like Danica Witze, a dynamic member of the Rollettes. Joined by Alexis, an expert in funding and policy, we unpack the intricacies of Medicare's role in setting standards that influence all payers. Discover how these wheelchairs, designed for full-time, active use, empower individuals and why understanding their funding is vital for everyone, regardless of age or insurance. Tune in to learn how advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill can impact the lives of wheelchair users nationwide.