How Denny Burke Turned Adversity into Advocacy

What happens when people underestimate your potential your entire life—and you refuse to let them define your future?

In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, I sit down with Denny Burke, a licensed master social worker, disability advocate, and speaker who has spent his life proving that disability does not determine what someone can achieve.

Growing up legally blind and facing additional disabilities, Denny endured bullying, low expectations, and barriers that could have shaped the rest of his life. Instead, with the encouragement of mentors and his own determination, he became the first person in his immediate family to graduate from college and is now dedicated to helping others find their voice through self-advocacy and social work.

In this episode, we discuss:

👁️ Growing up legally blind and overcoming childhood adversity
🎓 Becoming the first in his family to graduate from college
💙 Why self-advocacy is one of the most important life skills
🧒 His passion for helping children and families through social work
♿ Challenging misconceptions about people with disabilities
💼 Creating more inclusive workplaces and communities
✈️ Accessible travel and advocating for disabled travelers
❤️ Family, mentoring, volunteering, and giving back

Denny’s story is a powerful reminder that disability is one part of who someone is—not a limit on what they can accomplish. Whether you’re living with a disability, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for an inspiring conversation about resilience and inclusion, this episode is for you.

🎙️ Subscribe to We’re Not Stumped for more conversations highlighting resilience, advocacy, adaptive living, and the people making a difference in the disability community.

#DisabilityAdvocacy #SelfAdvocacy #DisabilityInclusion #SocialWork #LegalBlindness #AdaptiveLiving #Accessibility #Inclusion #WereNotStumped #DisabilityPodcast

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • Amputation Stories: Good Samaritan Heroism, Reddit Debate & Inspiring Resilience | We're Not Stumped

December 12th, 2024|

In this compelling episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland explores three thought-provoking stories of amputation and resilience: Heroic Good Samaritan: Discover the remarkable story of a man who selflessly saved a stranded driver, resulting in a life-changing amputation. Reddit Debate: We dive into the online controversy surrounding a woman who faced backlash for lying about her amputation. Wiggle Your Toes: Learn about a nonprofit's inspiring work in supporting amputees as they regain their independence and thrive.

  • Revolutionizing Mobility: Meet the Inventor of Paraboards

December 10th, 2024|

In this exciting episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland welcomes Dr. Benjamin S. Woodford, founder and inventor of Paraboards. This groundbreaking company is transforming the lives of wheelchair users with custom-built electric boards that bring speed, fun, and accessibility to a whole new level.

  • Frostbite Innovation, Amputee’s Horseback Journey Helping Hands Group Spotlight

December 5th, 2024|

In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland highlights three stories: Explore a new device designed to rewarm frostbitten feet and reduce the risk of amputations. Meet the remarkable amputee riding horseback across parts of America, stopping in East Texas to share his message of perseverance and hope. Helping Hands Group: Discover the impactful work of this organization dedicated to supporting individuals with upper limb anomalies and their families through advocacy, resources, and education.

By |July 14th, 2026|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on How Denny Burke Turned Adversity into Advocacy

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top