We're Not Stumped Limb Loss Support

Living With Hearing Loss: Janelle Parker on Advocacy, Technology, and Communication

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.

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By |June 30th, 2026|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on Living With Hearing Loss: Janelle Parker on Advocacy, Technology, and Communication

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What happens when you step back into something you once loved… years later? In this special episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland shares the story behind his bowling comeback — from becoming the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour to stepping back onto the lanes with a renewed sense of purpose. But this story is about more than bowling. It’s about rediscovering confidence, overcoming fear, finding purpose again, and proving that it’s never too late to chase something meaningful. Whether you’re facing adversity, starting over, or trying to reconnect with something you once loved, this episode is a reminder that your story is still being written.

I Hate to Break It to Woody Harrelson… but I Was the Original Kingpin.

Before the movie Kingpin ever hit theaters, I was already bowling professionally with one hand as the first amputee to compete on the PBA Tour.

Now decades later, at 61 years old, I’m making a comeback. This video is a fun look at the similarities between my story and the iconic movie — except this one’s real.

From bowling with one hand… to stepping back onto the lanes for the PBA60 World Championship… this comeback is about proving it’s never too late to chase something meaningful again.

And yes… I’m still trying to avoid the gutter balls and my hook flying off!.

 

Copyright 2026 We’re not Stumped, One Hand Man Productions and Mike Bolland
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