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
In this empowering episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Dr. Jackie Garcia, PT, DPT — a bilingual physical therapist, neurologic specialist-in-training, and founder of Nxt Stride Rehab — a virtual coaching program transforming how amputees recover, rebuild, and thrive. Jackie opens up about her journey into physical therapy, her passion for supporting individuals with limb loss and spinal cord injuries, and how a gap in care inspired her to launch a program that brings expert support directly into people’s homes — no matter where they live.
In this powerful conclusion to the Triple A’s of Limb Loss series, host Mike Bolland explores the third and perhaps most impactful "A"—Attitude. Born without a right hand, Mike shares how attitude isn't just a mindset—it's a survival tool. With honesty and humor, he dives into how your outlook shapes your journey after amputation, influences your recovery, and determines how you show up for yourself and others. Whether you’re newly navigating limb loss or years into your journey, this episode is a reminder that while we can’t control everything, we can control how we respond.
In this moving episode of We’re Not Stumped, Gini Thomas shares her incredible story of resilience after a tragic motorcycle accident took her husband’s life and left her facing devastating injuries. After three years of limb salvage attempts, Gini made the courageous decision to undergo an above-knee amputation in 2015. She opens up about her life-changing transition from traditional socket prosthetics to the Integrum OPRA Implant System using Osseointegration, a bone-anchored prosthetic that has allowed her to walk unassisted and reclaim her independence. Gini discusses the challenges of phantom pain, the power of advocacy, and how she uses social media to inspire and empower fellow amputees.
