In this powerful episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland delves into inspiring and impactful stories that highlight resilience and adaptability. Mike begins by discussing a life-changing camping trip that led to a double leg amputation after a severe burn and sepsis—an incredible journey of survival and recovery. He also shares surprising news about actor David Tennant revealing he was born with a rare medical condition, shedding light on hidden challenges faced by public figures.
Additionally, Mike highlights the incredible work of Be More Adaptive™, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering innovation for the disability community through adaptive technology and resources. Their vision: “Be More Adaptive™ envisions a world where disability is not a barrier, but a strength, with full accessibility and inclusion for everyone.”
Join Mike for an insightful conversation filled with stories of strength, awareness, and support for those overcoming life’s challenges.
Don’t miss this episode filled with inspiration and vital conversations about inclusion and resilience.
Links:
A burn he thought nothing of turned into something more serious – https://www.unilad.com/news/us-news/camping-trip-burn-thumb-sepsis-double-leg-amputation-457585-20250203
David Tennant announces that he was born with a rare condition – https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/david-tennant-announces-that-he-was-born-with-a-rare-condition/ar-AA1ynmDM
Be More Adaptive™ – https://www.bemoreadaptive.org/
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
What does it mean to truly be heard when you can’t speak? Jessica Frew, a nonverbal actress, model, and passionate disability advocate, joins We’re Not Stumped to share her powerful story of living with cerebral palsy and using an eye gaze device to communicate—a technology she began using at just nine years old. While Jess initially limited the device to school and close friends, she opens up about the emotional weight of using it publicly and the deeply personal regret of not speaking to her father through it before he passed away. Over time, Jess found strength in her voice and now uses it to educate, advocate, and challenge misconceptions about nonverbal individuals. She speaks with host Mike Bolland about the common experience of being talked down to or ignored—and how she responds with patience, courage, and relentless advocacy.
What do you do when life is going perfectly—until it’s not? In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Kijuan Amey—a U.S. Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and traumatic brain injury survivor whose life changed in an instant. At just 25, Kijuan was thriving: one year from earning his degree, running his own business (Kiwi Enterprise LLC), and proudly serving his country. Then, a sudden motorcycle accident nearly took it all away. But instead of asking, “Why me?”, Kijuan chose a different question: “What now?” Through faith, grit, and a desire to help others, he turned unimaginable trauma into purpose—and a message of hope.
In this episode, host Mike Bolland shares the inspiring story of Carter Henning, a high school freshman from Calamus-Wheatland in Iowa who returned to lead his varsity golf team just two months after losing his leg in a snowmobile accident. Carter’s determination and passion for the game showcase what’s possible with resilience and heart. Mike also highlights the Dallas Amputee Network (DAN), a nonprofit offering vital support and peer mentorship to amputees and their families across North Texas. Founded by Ellen Winchell in 2002, DAN empowers individuals through monthly meetings, the Certified Peer Visitor program, and a strong community of encouragement.
