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. Redefining Life After Limb Loss with Travis Sanders | Barber, Author & Amputee

    3D AGO

    Redefining Life After Limb Loss with Travis Sanders | Barber, Author & Amputee

    What happens when life changes in an instant—and you have to decide whether it defines you… or whether you redefine it? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Travis Sanders — master barber, entrepreneur, author, peer mentor, and above-knee amputee whose story is rooted in resilience, mindset, and purpose. After blood clots led to multiple surgeries and ultimately limb loss, Travis was forced to confront a completely different future. But instead of allowing that moment to define him, he made a powerful decision: He would redefine it. Just days after leaving the hospital, Travis returned to cutting hair — a moment that perfectly captures the determination and mindset that now fuels his mission to help others. Mike and Travis discuss: The mental and emotional battle during recoveryReturning to work immediately after surgeryHis new book, Path of Resilience JournalThe importance of peer mentoring and support groupsHelping amputees rebuild confidence and purposeWhy mindset and community matter after traumaToday, Travis mentors fellow amputees through hospital visits, support groups, and encouragement rooted in lived experience — proving that resilience is something built one day at a time.  🔗 Connect & Learn More  📍 Hair by Travis Sanders: https://www.haircutsbytravis.com/  📘 Path of Resilience Journal: https://a.co/d/00avjtCT  🌐 Instagram: @resilience_forge  🌐 Enable Review: Real reviews for prosthetic care: https://enablereview.com/  Subscribe to We’re Not Stumped for more real stories from the limb loss and disability community. 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/

    23 min
  2. Writing Limb Loss with Respect | Author Jim Roberts on Representation & Storytelling

    MAY 5

    Writing Limb Loss with Respect | Author Jim Roberts on Representation & Storytelling

    What does it mean to tell a story about limb loss… when you haven’t lived it yourself? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland—born without a right hand—sits down with author Jim Roberts to explore the decision to create a one-arm protagonist in his novel And Your Bird Can Sing. This conversation goes beyond writing. It’s about representation, authenticity, and what it truly means to feel seen. Jim shares how limb loss in his story became a powerful metaphor for grief, guilt, and forgiveness, set within a Southern Gothic coming-of-age journey through 1960s and 70s East Texas. Together, Mike and Jim dive into:  • Writing characters with experiences different from your own  • The responsibility of representation in storytelling  • Using physical loss as emotional metaphor  • Balancing authenticity with creative freedom  • The challenges of publishing meaningful literary fiction Jim also reflects on his late-in-life writing journey and why telling stories that matter is worth the uphill battle. This is a thoughtful and honest discussion about voice, visibility, and the impact of storytelling—especially for communities that don’t always see themselves represented. 🔗 Learn more about Jim Roberts: https://jimrobertsfiction.com/ 🎧 Follow We’re Not Stumped for more real conversations on resilience, disability, and the human experience. 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/

    38 min
  3. Melinda Preciado: From ER Professional to Disability Advocate After Limb Loss

    APR 28

    Melinda Preciado: From ER Professional to Disability Advocate After Limb Loss

    What happens when your life changes overnight—and you have to rebuild from the ground up? In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Melinda Preciado, a former ER professional turned disability advocate, about her life-changing journey after becoming an above-knee amputee in 2021 following a rare and devastating medical complication. Melinda shares the realities of life after amputation, challenges with prosthetics and accessibility, misconceptions about disability benefits, and why advocacy matters. She also opens up about social support, finding community through Miss Wheelchair, and using her story to inspire others. An honest conversation about resilience, identity, and discovering strength beyond limits. 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/

    39 min
  4. Amputee Story After Cancer: Kim Ousley on Limb Loss, Recovery & Advocacy

    APR 21

    Amputee Story After Cancer: Kim Ousley on Limb Loss, Recovery & Advocacy

    What happens after an amputee faces cancer and must rebuild life from scratch? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Kim Ousley to share her powerful amputee story—from a synovial sarcoma diagnosis to limb loss, recovery, and becoming a leader in amputee support and advocacy. Kim opens up about:  Her cancer journey and decision to amputate  The emotional and physical realities of limb loss  The importance of peer support in the amputee community  Her work with the Amputee Coalition and global amputee resources  Aging as an amputee, including prosthetics, mobility, and long-term health  Turning personal experience into advocacy, writing, and purpose As a certified peer support visitor and advocate, Kim is helping others navigate life after amputation with honesty, resilience, and real-world insight. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in amputee life, disability, recovery after limb loss, and stories of overcoming adversity. Kim's website: https://kowriter66.wordpress.com/ 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/

    30 min
  5. Limb Preservation Foundation: Support, Recovery & the Power of Community with Laurie Gillman

    APR 14

    Limb Preservation Foundation: Support, Recovery & the Power of Community with Laurie Gillman

    What kind of support truly makes a difference during limb loss or limb preservation? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Laurie Gillman from the Limb Preservation Foundation to explore the programs helping individuals navigate some of life’s toughest moments. Laurie shares how LPF provides financial assistance, emotional support through peer groups, and educational resources designed to help people focus on healing and recovery. They also discuss the upcoming symposium, mental health initiatives, and the importance of community, caregiving, and celebrating small wins along the journey. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, connection, and the resources that help people move forward. Support Limb Preservation Foundation: https://limbpreservation.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/

    17 min
  6. Big Changes at the Amputee Coalition | New CEO & Board Members

    APR 9

    Big Changes at the Amputee Coalition | New CEO & Board Members

    What do these leadership changes at the Amputee Coalition mean for the limb loss community? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland breaks down the latest updates, including the appointment of Dr. Carmen Elliott as President & CEO and the addition of new Board Members:  Teri Kuffel  Nicole Grehn, MSN, NP  Dr. Cassandra Quave  With backgrounds in healthcare, policy, research, and lived experience, this new leadership team brings a wide range of perspectives that could shape the future of care, advocacy, and support for people living with limb loss and limb difference.  Mike shares his perspective on:  Why leadership changes matter in the limb loss community  The gap between patients and finding the right care  How he feels this is a positive change  💡 This episode also touches on the importance of better information and support when navigating prosthetic care—something Mike is working to improve through Enable Review.  🔗 Learn More / Get Involved  👉 Share your experience: https://enablereview.com  👉 Listen to more episodes: https://werenotstumped.com  🎧 About the Podcast We’re Not Stumped is a podcast dedicated to amplifying voices from the limb loss and disability communities—sharing real stories, real challenges, and real solutions.  📢 Join the Conversation What do you want to see from the Amputee Coalition moving forward? Drop a comment below. 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/

    10 min
  7. Dating & Relationships After Limb Loss with Neomi Flores

    APR 7

    Dating & Relationships After Limb Loss with Neomi Flores

    What does dating look like after limb loss? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Neomi Flores to talk about relationships, confidence, and navigating the dating world as an amputee. Neomi shares her journey after losing her leg in 2022, including the emotional challenges, when to disclose limb loss to potential partners, and the impact of past relationships on moving forward. This honest conversation explores self-perception, resilience, and the importance of choosing to truly live—not just exist. 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/

    32 min
  8. 2 Missions. 1 Purpose. + How You Can Make an Impact

    APR 2

    2 Missions. 1 Purpose. + How You Can Make an Impact

    What does real support look like in the limb loss community? In this solo episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland shares the missions behind Joe & Marie’s Helping Hands and Enable Review—a platform where amputees share real experiences about prosthetists and clinics to help others make more informed decisions. Plus, Joe & Marie’s Helping Hands is currently seeking board members (Treasurer, Secretary, and Social Media Manager). If you’ve been looking for a way to give back, this could be your opportunity. Learn more about Joe & Marie’s Helping Hands: https://joeandmariehelpinghands.org/joe-and-maries-helping-hands-mission/ Explore Enable Review: https://enablereview.com/our-mission/  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/

    8 min
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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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