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
What kind of support truly makes a difference during limb loss or limb preservation? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Laurie Gillman from the Limb Preservation Foundation to explore the programs helping individuals navigate some of life’s toughest moments. Laurie shares how LPF provides financial assistance, emotional support through peer groups, and educational resources designed to help people focus on healing and recovery. They also discuss the upcoming symposium, mental health initiatives, and the importance of community, caregiving, and celebrating small wins along the journey.
What do the new leadership changes at the Amputee Coalition mean for the limb loss community? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland breaks down the latest updates, including the appointment of Dr. Carmen Elliott as President & CEO and the addition of new Board Members: Teri Kuffel Nicole Grehn, MSN, NP Dr. Cassandra Quave With backgrounds in healthcare, policy, research, and lived experience, this new leadership team brings a wide range of perspectives that could shape the future of care, advocacy, and support for people living with limb loss and limb difference.
What is dating really like after limb loss? In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Neomi Flores to talk about relationships, confidence, and the realities of dating as an amputee. Neomi shares her deeply personal journey after losing her leg in 2022—including the emotional recovery, navigating self-confidence, and the challenges of putting herself back out there in the dating world.
