Janne Kouri Founder of NextStep and Loncaro

In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Janne Kouri, entrepreneur, founder of NextStep, and co-founder of Lencaro Finnish Long Drink.

Janne shares the incredible story of how a spinal cord injury from a swimming accident in 2006 changed the course of his life. After spending two months in the ICU battling paralysis, pneumonia, and a 104-degree fever, he traveled more than 2,000 miles to receive groundbreaking activity-based rehabilitation that wasn’t covered by insurance—but changed everything.

That experience inspired him to create NextStep, a nonprofit rehabilitation center that helps people living with paralysis access advanced therapy long after traditional insurance benefits end.

In this inspiring conversation, you’ll learn:

His 3,100-mile power wheelchair journey from California to Washington, D.C.
How he balances leading a nonprofit with building Loncaro Finnish Long Drink (https://loncaro.com/)
His vision for the future of rehabilitation and recovery

Whether you’re living with paralysis, navigating rehabilitation, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for a story of resilience and purpose, this conversation offers hope, practical insight, and inspiration.

Learn more about NextStep: https://www.nextstepfitness.org

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • Empowering the Disabled Community: Creating Employment Opportunities | Hugh Boyle from Doable Agency

July 30th, 2024|

In this episode, we have the honor of speaking with Hugh Boyle from Doable Agency. 🌟 Join us as Hugh shares his inspiring journey of resilience and determination. After a right leg below-the-knee amputation, Hugh not only overcame personal challenges but also founded Doable Agency, a trailblazing company that predominantly employs individuals with disabilities

  • Empowering Lives: Camp No Limits, NubAbility, and Chris Casteel’s Innovations | Headlines July 25

July 25th, 2024|

In this episode: Camp No Limits: Empowering Kids with Limb Loss Discover how Camp No Limits provides a life-changing experience for children with limb loss. This camp not only offers a supportive community but also teaches adaptive skills and fosters independence, allowing kids to thrive and dream big.

July 24th, 2024|

In this episode of "We're Not Stumped," we feature the inspiring Todd Key, a one-legged cyclist who demonstrated extraordinary determination and resilience. Todd’s journey began at age 7 with a severe injury to his right hand, followed by the [...]

By |August 4th, 2026|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on Janne Kouri Founder of NextStep and Loncaro

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top