What is it really like to live with hearing loss?
In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped Podcast, Mike Bolland sits down with Janelle Parker, founder of TAMCO Learning, to discuss her lifelong journey with hearing loss and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Janelle shares how she was born with a unique “cookie bite” hearing loss, received her first hearing aid before age four, and adapted to life in a world designed for hearing people. She also discusses the dramatic evolution of hearing aid technology, assistive devices, and accessibility tools that have transformed opportunities for people with hearing loss.
During the conversation, Janelle explains:
- What “cookie bite” hearing loss means
- How hearing aid technology has changed over the years
- Common misconceptions about hearing loss
- Why clear communication matters more than simply speaking louder
- The role of visual cues, patience, and advocacy
- Resources and grants available for hearing assistive technology
- How humor can help navigate daily challenges
- The mission behind TAMCO Learning and its educational resources
Janelle also shares insights from her work helping others with hearing loss and discusses her upcoming book focused on relationships and hearing loss.
Whether you’re living with hearing loss, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about accessibility and communication, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and valuable perspective.
Learn more about Janelle’s work at TAMCO Learning: https://tamcolearning.com/
Subscribe to the We’re Not Stumped Podcast for more conversations featuring people with disabilities, advocates, athletes, authors, and community leaders who are redefining what’s possible.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland — born without his right hand — shares a powerful message about why he feels dressing well matters for the limb loss and disability community. This isn’t about vanity — it’s about confidence, self-respect, and advocacy. Mike explains how personal style can change the way we feel about ourselves and the way others see us. From challenging stereotypes to promoting positive representation, dressing with pride is one way to say: “I belong here — just as I am.” 🎙️ In this episode, Mike discusses: Why appearance and self-expression are empowering after limb loss or disability How dressing well helps break stereotypes and reshape public perception The connection between confidence, mental health, and advocacy How showing up with pride inspires others in the community 👕 Dressing well isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing pride in who you are. Because when we show up confidently, we make it easier for others to do the same.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) affects millions worldwide — yet most people don’t recognize the warning signs until it’s too late. In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Emmy Award-winning journalist and Global PAD Association co-founder Kym McNicholas to explain what PAD is, how it causes poor circulation, and why early detection is critical in preventing amputation. Kym shares her inspiring journey from covering a medical story to becoming one of the leading advocates for PAD awareness and patient empowerment. She sheds light on how education, proper diagnosis, and access to the right care can literally save limbs — and lives.
In Part 1 of this special episode, host Mike Bolland sits down with Emmy Award–winning journalist and Global PAD Association founder Kym McNicholas for an impromptu, post-interview discussion that turned into an insightful recording. What started as a quick chat evolved into a powerful conversation about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), early detection, and Kym’s mission to raise global awareness and prevent unnecessary amputations.
