In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Jason A. Jones—motivational speaker, author, and founder of Positive Pieces—for a powerful conversation about resilience, mindset, and growing up with a congenital hand difference.
Mike and Jason share a unique connection: both were born with a difference in their right hand. Together, they explore the realities of childhood, school, friendships, sports, and the challenges of first impressions when living with a visible disability. Jason reflects on the role his parents played in building confidence and accountability, encouraging him to adapt without excuses and believe in his own abilities.
Jason also discusses his motivational memoir, Three the Hard Way, which chronicles his journey from adolescence through college—including major setbacks like a serious car accident, job loss, and navigating employment with a disability. The conversation dives into disability disclosure in the workplace, the importance of mindset, and how resilience is built through lived experience.
The episode also covers:
- Living with a congenital limb difference
- Adaptability, ambidexterity, and self-confidence
- Employment challenges and disability awareness
- Jason’s mission through Positive Pieces, LLC to spread positivity
- Turning adversity into purpose
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating disability, personal growth, or seeking motivation to move forward with confidence and purpose.
3 The Hard Way: https://www.amazon.com/3-Hard-Way-Jason-Jones/dp/1967176140
Jason A. Jones Website: https://www.mrjasonajones.com/
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland dives into the second “A” of his Triple A’s of Limb Loss — Advocacy. Drawing from his own experience as someone born without a right hand, Mike explores how individuals in the limb loss and disability communities are using their voices to influence change, break down stigma, and fight for equal access and opportunity. Through heartfelt stories and eye-opening insights, this episode highlights: What advocacy looks like — from everyday conversations to systemic reform How sharing your personal journey can empower others and drive awareness The importance of representation in healthcare, employment, media, and beyond Ways listeners can get involved, speak up, and support the disability community Because when you find your community, you’re never stumped.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Brooke Brown—a passionate advocate, spiritual wellness guide, and founder of Brooke’s Butterfly Touch. Brooke, who lives with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, shares how her journey led her to discover Reiki, energy healing, and the power of self-connection. As an Ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy of Central Arizona and host of the Rolling in Grace podcast, Brooke empowers others to live with purpose, embrace their uniqueness, and become their own biggest advocates. She shares her message of accessibility, inclusion, and disability visibility, along with the importance of assuming competence in every interaction.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland introduces the first part of his personal “Triple A’s” philosophy: Alone, Advocacy, and Attitude. Today’s focus is on that first word—Alone—a stage that many people experience after limb loss but rarely talk about openly. Mike, a congenital amputee and cancer survivor, shares what it means to feel alone physically, emotionally, and socially after amputation—and why that feeling doesn’t have to last forever. He explores practical, real-world solutions that help amputees take their first steps toward healing, including: The power of peer support and community How therapy and mental health resources can help Adaptive sports and creative outlets to rediscover purpose Navigating prosthetics, rehab, and daily independence Rebuilding identity and reclaiming confidence Whether you’re newly navigating limb loss or supporting someone who is, this episode is a reminder that you’re never truly alone. Hope, connection, and healing are all within reach.
