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/
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In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Eric Ford to talk about the car accident that changed the course of his life. In 2009, while driving through Atlanta with his children, Eric was struck by a drunk driver. Though his children escaped with only minor injuries, Eric was left with life-threatening damage to his leg. Over the next two months, Eric endured 12–13 surgeries, including skin and muscle grafts, in an attempt to save the leg. When the wound continued to reopen and the pain became unbearable, he made the courageous decision to undergo an amputation. Eric shares the emotional and physical challenges of that decision, and how it ultimately gave him a new lease on life.
Stevia Walker joins host Mike Bolland to share her powerful story of resilience after a life-altering car accident that left her with a fused cervical spine and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in her right hand. After extensive research and consultations, Stevia made the courageous decision to undergo amputation of her hand—with the support of Dr. Stephen Niedermeyer. In this inspiring episode, Stevia reflects on rebuilding her life, from her former career as a hair stylist to her meaningful role today as a Girl Scout leader. She speaks candidly about living with phantom limb pain, her challenges with prosthetics, and how she empowers others by sharing her experiences. As a board member of the Dallas Amputee Network (DAN - https://dallasamputeenetwork.org/), Stevia highlights the nonprofit’s impactful work supporting amputees, caregivers, and families throughout North Texas. Founded in 2002, DAN provides education, peer mentorship, fitness opportunities, and social events like the upcoming Legapalooza fundraiser—all aimed at improving the quality of life for those affected by limb loss.
What does it truly mean to be seen as fully human in a world that often overlooks disability? In this thought-provoking episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes back Dr. Stephanie W. Cawthon—an acclaimed deaf author, speaker, and researcher—for an honest and insightful conversation about identity, accessibility, and belonging. With ASL interpreters Amanda Ford and Steven Nugent joining, Dr. Cawthon shares the personal and cultural impact of her book Disability is Human, a work that has deeply influenced Mike’s own journey.
