In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Joslynn Bigelow, founder and CEO of Say How Consulting, for a powerful conversation on disability advocacy, system navigation, and adaptive sports.
Joslynn shares her personal journey into advocacy, the launch of her consulting business, and her five guiding principles for creating inclusive services: dignity of risk, individual readiness, assess and address, authentic experience, and realistic opportunities. She also highlights her colleague Alexia Michitti’s adaptive clothing brand, Embrace 1-3-RACE, designed for individuals with limb differences and neurological conditions.
The discussion dives into:
- Why “say how” means finding solutions when systems say “no”
- The role of dignity of risk in fostering independence and inclusion
- The origins and growth of the United Adaptive Soccer Association (UASA)
- The challenges of advancing inclusion in adaptive sports
- The unique opportunities upcoming global sporting events offer for disability awareness
This episode is a must-listen for families, advocates, and anyone passionate about building authentic opportunities for people with disabilities.
Say How Consulting: https://sayhowconsulting.com
United Adaptive Soccer Association: https://unitedadaptivesoccer.com/
#DisabilityAdvocacy #AdaptiveSports #DignityOfRisk #Inclusion
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In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Dr. Stephanie Cawthon, a disabled author, speaker, and researcher, to discuss her groundbreaking new book, Disability as Human. As a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and the founder of the National Disability Center for Student Success, Stephanie wears many professional "hats" in her mission to advance accessibility and disability inclusion. Beyond individual experiences, Stephanie and Mike explore the importance of systems-level work in accessibility. Stephanie highlights the need for proactive and sustainable solutions that bring disabled students into the heart of decision-making. She also delves into the challenges and rewards of driving meaningful, large-scale change. Join us for an insightful discussion that redefines how we view disability and inclusion in education and beyond!
Ana L. Reyes’ story is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and service. In 2017, Ana was diagnosed with cancer, and three years later, she became an amputee. But her faith never wavered. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Ana has dedicated her life to her family, community, and ministry. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she has also spent 20 years shaping young minds as a teacher. Alongside her husband, Rev. Marc Reyes, she has led Good Shepherd Ministries Church in West Haven, CT, for nearly two decades. Now an ordained minister, she continues to travel on missionary trips, serve her community, and inspire others through her book, Still Standing: An Amputee’s Story of Hope—a powerful testament to overcoming adversity through faith. Join us as Ana shares her incredible story of perseverance, proving that even in life’s greatest challenges, hope and faith can keep us standing.
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, we dive into the journey of a local teen who is redefining the game of softball. After undergoing a double amputation, she hasn’t just adapted—she’s excelling, competing at a high level, and proving that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. Next, we spotlight A Leg Forever, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting amputees and their families. A Leg Forever Charitable Foundation was established by Elizabeth (Liz) Norden in honor of her two sons JP and Paul Norden who each lost a leg in the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15, 2013.
