In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Chris Baschuk, a trailblazer in upper limb prosthetics and the Director of Clinical Services at Point Designs. Chris also serves on the board of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists and is a proud ambassador for What Is POP, an organization working to expand the pipeline of professionals in Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Pedorthics.
Together, Mike and Chris explore the cutting edge of prosthetic innovation—from the rise of 3D printing in clinical care to the need for greater access, education, and advocacy for people with limb loss.
🔧 Chris shares his personal journey—from tinkering with tools as a child to mission work in Brazil that inspired his career in biomedical engineering and prosthetics. He explains how additive manufacturing is revolutionizing prosthetic options for partial hand amputees, and how companies like Point Designs are leading the charge with rugged, functional, and customizable prosthetic components.
💡 Topics include:
- The evolution of multi-articulated prosthetic hands
- Pattern recognition technology in upper limb devices
- Shifting from traditional fabrication to additive manufacturing
- Advocacy to improve reimbursement and coding for partial hand prosthetics
- Chris’s leadership in the Upper Limb Prosthetic Society
- Mentorship and outreach through the POP ambassador program
- What his election to the Academy’s board means for future care
Mike also shares a fun then-vs-now look at prosthetic technology by comparing his vintage 1970s prosthetic hand with today’s advanced solutions.
If you’re passionate about prosthetic innovation, limb difference advocacy, or the future of orthotic and prosthetic education, this episode is a must-listen.
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In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland announces new social media accounts for this podcast: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WereNotStumpedLimbLossPodcast, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/werenotstumped/. He then dives into two remarkable stories of resilience in the face of amputation. First, he discusses Pointed in the Right Direction, an inspiring memoir from Jeff Soelberg about overcoming life’s challenges after partial hand/finger amputation. Then, we hear the heartwarming story of a 7-year-old boy who, despite having both legs amputated, conquers his fear of swimming and embraces life with courage.
In this episode of the *We're Not Stumped* podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Rachel Simukonda from the City of Flagstaff to discuss the city's efforts in promoting inclusive and accessible communities. Rachel shares her insights on Flagstaff's commitment to creating opportunities for people of all abilities, along with her personal experiences in advocating for equity and support in public services. Tune in for a powerful conversation on inclusive employment, adaptive living, and how Flagstaff is leading by example.
Mike Bolland highlights two impactful community events: the NAU Institute for Human Development Resource Fair and the NOB Amputee Support Group's annual picnic at Bethpage State Park. Discover how these events foster inclusivity, provide resources, and offer peer support for individuals with disabilities and amputees. Tune in for discussions on adaptive living, community building, and the power of connection!
