We’re Not Stumped | Motivational Podcast Featuring Survival Stories, Recovery Journeys & Disability Stories

Mike Bolland
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Semiweekly

We’re not stumped.Not by limb loss. Not by fear. Not by anything life throws our way. We’re Not Stumped is a motivational podcast sharing survival stories, recovery journeys, and real-life success stories from the limb loss and disability community. Hosted by Mike Bolland—a one-handed cancer survivor and the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour—this podcast highlights what it truly means to overcome adversity and rebuild with purpose. Launched in 2022, the show was created to give a voice to individuals navigating limb loss, disability, and life-changing challenges. Each episode features powerful conversations with amputees, caregivers, medical professionals, and advocates—offering insight into adaptive living, prosthetic innovation, inclusive employment, and mental resilience. These are more than just stories—they are recovery stories and survival stories that provide hope, perspective, and practical encouragement for anyone facing adversity. Beyond the podcast, Mike is also a speaker and stand-up comedian, using humor and real-life experience to connect with audiences and challenge perceptions around disability. If you’re searching for a motivational podcast, survival stories podcast, or recovery story podcast, We’re Not Stumped delivers honest, inspiring conversations from people who have faced life head-on—and refused to be defined by it. Join a growing community built on resilience, connection, and the belief that no one has to go through this alone.

  1. 1d ago

    How Denny Burke Turned Adversity into Advocacy

    What happens when people underestimate your potential your entire life—and you refuse to let them define your future? On this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Denny Burke, a licensed master social worker, disability advocate, and speaker whose life is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of self-advocacy. Growing up legally blind while facing additional disabilities, Denny endured bullying, low expectations, and barriers that could have defined his future. Instead, with the support of mentors and his own determination, he became the first person in his immediate family to graduate from college and has dedicated his career to helping children, families, and people with disabilities find their voice. In this episode, we discuss: Growing up legally blind and overcoming childhood adversityBecoming the first in his family to graduate from collegeWhy self-advocacy is one of life's most valuable skillsHis work as a licensed master social workerChallenging misconceptions about disabilityCreating more inclusive workplaces and communitiesAccessible travel and disability advocacyThe importance of mentors, family, and giving backDenny's story is a powerful reminder that disability is only one part of who someone is—it does not define a person's potential. If you enjoy conversations about resilience, inclusion, disability advocacy, and overcoming adversity, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Follow We're Not Stumped for more inspiring conversations with people who are redefining what's possible. Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    How Denny Burke Turned Adversity into Advocacy

  2. Jul 7

    From Paralysis to Purpose: Dr. Kirsten Ludwig's Journey as a Walking Quadriplegic

    What happens when a life-changing accident forces you to redefine what's possible? On this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Dr. Kirsten Ludwig—a biomedical researcher, educator, former professional polo player, and advocate for disability inclusion in healthcare. In 2021, Dr. Ludwig was paralyzed from the neck down during a horseback riding accident. Through determination, rehabilitation, and an incredible commitment to recovery, she became what she describes as a walking quadriplegic. Today, she combines her lived experience with her work as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Science at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, helping educate future physicians about disability, accessibility, and patient-centered care. In this episode, we discuss: Dr. Ludwig's career as a professional polo player and biomedical researcherThe horseback riding accident that changed her lifeHow training for a 5K became a powerful rehabilitation goalWhat it means to live as a walking quadriplegicThe importance of disability education in medical schoolsHow patients can become stronger self-advocatesFinding purpose after life-changing adversityDr. Ludwig's story is one of resilience, determination, and using lived experience to improve healthcare for future generations. If you enjoy inspiring conversations about resilience, disability advocacy, and overcoming adversity, be sure to follow We're Not Stumped and share this episode with others. Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    From Paralysis to Purpose: Dr. Kirsten Ludwig's Journey as a Walking Quadriplegic

  3. Jun 30

    Living With Hearing Loss: Janelle Parker on Advocacy, Technology, and Communication

    What is it really like to live with hearing loss? . In this episode of the We're Not Stumped Podcast, Mike Bolland sits down with Janelle Parker, founder of TAMCO Learning, to discuss her lifelong journey with hearing loss and the lessons she's learned along the way.  Janelle shares how she was born with a unique "cookie bite" hearing loss, received her first hearing aid before age four, and adapted to life in a world designed for hearing people. She also discusses the dramatic evolution of hearing aid technology, assistive devices, and accessibility tools that have transformed opportunities for people with hearing loss.  During the conversation, Janelle explains:  What "cookie bite" hearing loss means How hearing aid technology has changed over the years Common misconceptions about hearing loss Why clear communication matters more than simply speaking louder The role of visual cues, patience, and advocacy Resources and grants available for hearing assistive technology How humor can help navigate daily challenges The mission behind TAMCO Learning and its educational resourcesJanelle also shares insights from her work helping others with hearing loss and discusses her upcoming book focused on relationships and hearing loss.  Whether you're living with hearing loss, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about accessibility and communication, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and valuable perspective. Learn more about Janelle's work at TAMCO Learning: https://tamcolearning.com/ Subscribe to the We're Not Stumped Podcast for more conversations featuring people with disabilities, advocates, athletes, authors, and community leaders who are redefining what's possible.  Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    Living With Hearing Loss: Janelle Parker on Advocacy, Technology, and Communication

  4. Jun 23

    Rose Booth Returns: From 14 Surgeries to "Rosie and Her Robot Leg"

    Three years after her first appearance on We're Not Stumped, Rose Booth returns to the podcast to share an extraordinary journey of resilience, faith, and new beginnings. After enduring 14 surgeries, multiple episodes of sepsis, a heart attack, and the loss of her right leg above the knee, Rose found herself on a path she never expected. A former technology executive, she left corporate America behind and discovered a passion for writing and ministry. In this episode, Rose discusses her memoir Dancing in the Valley and the inspiration behind her new children's book, Rosie and Her Robot Leg. Inspired by the children she serves through Vacation Bible School and the questions they asked during her recovery, Rose created a story designed to help children, parents, and teachers better understand limb loss and disability. Rose also shares her hopes for the future of the Rosie series, her involvement with the Moving Forward support group in Louisville, Kentucky, and why she believes representation and understanding matter. Join us for an uplifting conversation about perseverance, purpose, and finding joy after life's unexpected challenges. Hosted by Mike Bolland, We're Not Stumped celebrates resilience, adaptive living, and the stories of people who prove that life doesn't end when adversity begins. Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    Rose Booth Returns: From 14 Surgeries to "Rosie and Her Robot Leg"

  5. Jun 18

    Answering My Most Frequently Asked Questions

    Over the years, I've been asked a lot of questions—some serious, some funny, and some I've heard more times than I can count. In this solo episode of the We're Not Stumped Podcast, I'm answering five of the questions I get asked a lot. Do I wear a prosthesis? How do I bowl with one hand? Have I always had a positive attitude? Do people still stare? And what keeps me motivated? I'll share some stories from growing up with a limb difference, becoming the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour, overcoming cancer, and why I've learned that attitude isn't something you're born with—it's something you choose every day. Along the way, we'll talk about curiosity, humor, resilience, and making the most of the opportunities life gives us. In this episode, I answer:  Do you wear a prosthesis?  How do you bowl with one hand?  Have you always had a good attitude?  Do people still stare?  What keeps you motivated? Thanks for listening to the We're Not Stumped Podcast. I hope this episode gives you a few laughs, a little perspective, and maybe answers a question you've always wondered about. Have a stump and a smile! 🎙️ Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    Answering My Most Frequently Asked Questions

  6. Jun 16

    Best Kept Secrets for Travelers With Sight Loss | Lynn Jensen

    What happens when you lose your sight at just 27 years old?  In this episode of the We're Not Stumped Podcast, Mike Bolland welcomes Lynn Jensen, author of Best Kept Secrets for Travelers With Sight Loss, to share her remarkable journey from sudden blindness to living an independent, adventurous life filled with travel, purpose, and humor.  Lynn discusses the challenges she faced after losing her vision, from relearning everyday tasks to navigating the world with guide dogs. She shares practical travel tips for people with sight loss, explains common misconceptions about blindness, and discusses how independence looks different for everyone.  Topics include:  Her book, Best Kept Secrets for Travelers With Sight Loss Losing her sight after graduating from nursing school The life-changing impact of guide dogs Travel tips for airports, hotels, and tourist destinations Hidden disability accommodations for travelers Funny stories from life with vision loss Why humor is an essential coping tool Building virtual workshops for people with sight lossLynn's story is a powerful reminder that life doesn't end when circumstances change—it simply requires a new way of moving forward.  Learn more about Lynn and her book: https://blindtraveltips.com  #WereNotStumped #BlindTravel #SightLoss #DisabilityAwareness #GuideDogs #TravelTips #Accessibility #BlindnessAwareness #AdaptiveLiving #Inspiration  Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    Best Kept Secrets for Travelers With Sight Loss | Lynn Jensen

  7. Jun 12

    What the TV Stories Didn't Show | The Real Reason Behind My PBA Comeback

    Over the past few weeks, I was fortunate to be featured by ABC15 and Arizona's Family as I prepare for my return to PBA competition after more than 30 years away from the sport. The television stories were fantastic, but as anyone who has ever done an interview knows, there's always more that doesn't make the final cut. In this special solo episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, I share some of the stories, organizations, and experiences that didn't make it into the TV segments, including: • The mission behind the We're Not Stumped podcast • Joe & Marie Bolland's Helping Hands and supporting people with limb loss and limb differences • Enable Review and helping people make informed prosthetic care decisions • Why this comeback is about much more than bowling The bowling ball may have opened the door, but the real story is about service, community, resilience, and making the most of the opportunities life gives us. Have a stump and a smile! #WereNotStumped #PBA #Bowling #AdaptiveSports #DisabilityInclusion #LimbDifference #Ability360 #ArizonaDisabledSports #EnableReview #HelpingHands #Podcast #Resilience #OneMoreRun Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    What the TV Stories Didn't Show | The Real Reason Behind My PBA Comeback

  8. Jun 9

    Rachel Kubicki: How the Hanger Foundation Empowers People to Live Without Limits

    Rachel Kubicki, Executive Director of the Hanger Foundation, joins Mike Bolland to discuss the organization's mission of empowering people with physical challenges to live life as fully as possible. With more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Rachel shares how the Foundation has expanded its impact through scholarships, nonprofit grants, community events, and innovative fundraising efforts. She discusses Move to Inspire, EmpowerFest, and the upcoming Night to Inspire event in Nashville, all designed to create opportunities, build connections, and inspire achievement within the limb loss and limb difference community. Rachel also shares powerful stories of individuals who have overcome obstacles, reached unexpected milestones, and discovered the life-changing value of community support. In this episode: • The mission of the Hanger Foundation • Move to Inspire and EmpowerFest events • Scholarships and nonprofit grant programs • Building community after limb loss or limb difference • Inspiring success stories from across the country • How supporters can get involved and make a difference Whether you're part of the limb loss community, a caregiver, healthcare professional, or someone who appreciates stories of resilience and possibility, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration. Learn more about the Hanger Foundation at hangerfoundation.org. Send Mike a Message! Support the show 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/

    Rachel Kubicki: How the Hanger Foundation Empowers People to Live Without Limits
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

We’re not stumped.Not by limb loss. Not by fear. Not by anything life throws our way. We’re Not Stumped is a motivational podcast sharing survival stories, recovery journeys, and real-life success stories from the limb loss and disability community. Hosted by Mike Bolland—a one-handed cancer survivor and the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour—this podcast highlights what it truly means to overcome adversity and rebuild with purpose. Launched in 2022, the show was created to give a voice to individuals navigating limb loss, disability, and life-changing challenges. Each episode features powerful conversations with amputees, caregivers, medical professionals, and advocates—offering insight into adaptive living, prosthetic innovation, inclusive employment, and mental resilience. These are more than just stories—they are recovery stories and survival stories that provide hope, perspective, and practical encouragement for anyone facing adversity. Beyond the podcast, Mike is also a speaker and stand-up comedian, using humor and real-life experience to connect with audiences and challenge perceptions around disability. If you’re searching for a motivational podcast, survival stories podcast, or recovery story podcast, We’re Not Stumped delivers honest, inspiring conversations from people who have faced life head-on—and refused to be defined by it. Join a growing community built on resilience, connection, and the belief that no one has to go through this alone.

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