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.
They discuss the challenges of growing up with hearing loss in a time when ASL access was limited, and how this shaped language development and education. The conversation dives into important issues like the “disability tax,” identity formation, and the hidden barriers many disabled individuals encounter, especially in entry-level jobs. They also unpack the effects of societal attitudes, exploring concepts like “helper syndrome” and “stalker syndrome,” which create subtle but real burdens for people with disabilities.
Dr. Cawthon highlights that while the ADA was a critical step toward inclusion, achieving true accessibility demands ongoing shifts in mindset, mentorship, and opportunity. This episode invites listeners to rethink disability—not as a problem to be fixed, but as a vital part of the human experience.
Disability is Human Book: https://www.amazon.com/Disability-Human-Vital-Accessibility-Everyday/dp/1954233299
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In 2013, Armeda Batchler made the life-altering decision to amputate her left leg above the knee after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma—just months after becoming a new mother. Determined to push forward, she balanced recovery, parenting, and work with remarkable strength. Yet behind the resilience, Armeda faced hidden struggles: depression, isolation, and the difficulty of asking for help. Over time, she discovered the healing power of connection, rebuilding a local amputee support group and embracing advocacy to support others walking a similar path. In this heartfelt conversation, Armeda opens up about her cancer journey, the challenges of raising her daughter while adapting to limb loss, and how hope and community helped her transform struggle into purpose.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland examines leadership at the Amputee Coalition. Between 2019 and 2022, CEO compensation jumped 107%. Cass Isidro led the organization from February 2023 until August 22, 2025. While reliable sources say she did a good job, Mike discusses why long-term leadership is vital for the limb loss community—highlighting the value of someone deeply committed to the cause rather than viewing the role as a career step. He also shares why he personally would not seek recommendation letters for the Certified Peer Visitor program.
Dr. Christopher Duncan, Chief Medical Officer at Biologic Input Output Systems (BIOS), joins We’re Not Stumped with host Mike Bolland for a deep dive into neurotechnology and the future of prosthetics. With a background in rehabilitation medicine, Christopher explains how BIOS is combining advanced materials, neurophysiology, and machine learning to create prosthetic technology that restores natural movement and touch—far beyond what he calls today’s “Civil War technology.” The discussion also explores data registries, privacy concerns, and partnerships with leading institutions to expand access.
