In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Tim Balz, founder and CEO of Kalogon, (https://www.kalogon.com) to discuss how cutting-edge technology is improving mobility and independence for wheelchair users.
Tim’s journey started in high school when he began refurbishing wheelchairs to help people in need. That passion evolved into a career in assistive technology, leading to the creation of Kalogon—a company developing AI-powered smart cushions designed to prevent pressure injuries and enhance comfort for wheelchair users. These cushions actively redistribute pressure, helping to reduce the risk of pressure sores, discomfort, and long-term health complications that many wheelchair users face.
Throughout the conversation, Tim shares the inspiration behind Kalogon, the science behind its smart cushions, and how his team is using technology, data, and user feedback to create innovative solutions. He also discusses the future of mobility technology, including how AI and personalized care can further improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.
Mike and Tim also explore the challenges of starting a company in the accessibility space, the importance of inclusive design, and how Kalogon is working alongside healthcare professionals and wheelchair users to bring life-changing innovations to the mobility community.
Tune in for an insightful conversation about innovation, advocacy, and the future of assistive technology. Whether you’re a wheelchair user, a caregiver, or simply interested in groundbreaking advancements in mobility, this episode is packed with valuable insights!
0:00 – Intro
0:45 – Tim Balz discusses his early life
2:30 – Tim Balz discusses his early introduction to wheelchairs
3:26 – Tim talks about his parents influence
4:20 – Wheelchair invention that impressed Stephen Hawking
7:15 – Tim Balz talks about landing at SpaceX
11:55 – Tim talks about his passion for helping others
14:00 – Welcome Discount Tire as a sponsor
15:47 – First product from Kalagon
20:18 – Pressure injury threat
23:16 – Smart Wheelchair Seat Success Story
25:05 – Wheelchair Smart Cushion Explained
29:20 – A look to the future
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
What does it mean to tell a story about limb loss… when you haven’t lived it yourself? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland—born without a right hand—sits down with author Jim Roberts to explore the decision to create a one-arm protagonist in his novel And Your Bird Can Sing. This conversation goes beyond writing. It’s about representation, authenticity, and what it truly means to feel seen. Jim shares how limb loss in his story became a powerful metaphor for grief, guilt, and forgiveness, set within a Southern Gothic coming-of-age journey through 1960s and 70s East Texas.
What happens when your life changes overnight—and you have to rebuild from the ground up? In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Melinda Preciado, a former ER professional turned disability advocate, about her life-changing journey after becoming an above-knee amputee in 2021 following a rare and devastating medical complication. Melinda shares the realities of life after amputation, challenges with prosthetics and accessibility, misconceptions about disability benefits, and why advocacy matters. She also opens up about social support, finding community through Miss Wheelchair, and using her story to inspire others. An honest conversation about resilience, identity, and discovering strength beyond limits.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Kim Ousley to share her powerful amputee story—from a synovial sarcoma diagnosis to limb loss, recovery, and becoming a leader in amputee support and advocacy. As a certified peer support visitor and advocate, Kim is helping others navigate life after amputation with honesty, resilience, and real-world insight. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in amputee life, disability, recovery after limb loss, and stories of overcoming adversity.
