In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland takes a look at the Amputee Coalition’s leadership. Between 2019 and 2022, CEO total compensation (Form 990, Part VII, Columns C & F) increased from $183,877 to $380,727—a 107% jump. Cass Isidro stepped into the role in February 2023 and left on August 22, 2025.
Host Mike Bolland has been told by reliable sources that she did a good job during her tenure. However, with limb loss being a lifetime journey, he discusses why it would be valuable to have someone leading the organization for longer than 2.5 years—someone truly dedicated to the community, not just viewing the position as another step in a career.
Mike also shares why he personally would not pursue recommendation letters for the Amputee Coalition when it comes to becoming a Certified Peer Visitor. As always. a representative from the Amputee Coalition is welcome to join a future episode to share their perspective and continue this important conversation.
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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.
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.
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.
