Scott Martin returns to the We’re Not Stumped Podcast for a powerful follow-up conversation with host Mike Bolland.
Scott shares the story of the life-threatening illness he survived in 1993 that resulted in the amputation of his hands and feet, and the long journey of rebuilding his life afterward. From facing discrimination and depression to rediscovering confidence and purpose, Scott reflects on the emotional and physical challenges of life after limb loss.
Mike and Scott also discuss Scott’s journey with prosthetics — from initially resisting prosthetic hooks to eventually using myoelectric hands — along with the challenges of insurance approvals, repairs, and finding prosthetists who truly listen to their patients.
The conversation also highlights Scott’s upcoming book, Play From Your Heart, releasing June 9 through Simon & Schuster (https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Play-From-Your-Heart/Scott-Martin/9798894410395). Inspired by his love of soccer and his experience coaching a team of 12-year-olds to a state championship, the book shares lessons about leadership, resilience, trust, and the power of playing — and living — from the heart.
Scott’s story is a powerful reminder that even after life-changing adversity, it’s possible to rebuild your life, rediscover purpose, and move forward with strength and determination.
Hosted by congenital amputee Mike Bolland, We’re Not Stumped shares real conversations with amputees, caregivers, prosthetists, and advocates working to support the limb loss and disability communities.
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What happens when life changes in an instant—and you have to decide whether it defines you… or whether you redefine it? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Travis Sanders — master barber, entrepreneur, author, peer mentor, and above-knee amputee whose story is rooted in resilience, mindset, and purpose. After blood clots led to multiple surgeries and ultimately limb loss, Travis was forced to confront a completely different future. But instead of allowing that moment to define him, he made a powerful decision: He would redefine it. Just days after leaving the hospital, Travis returned to cutting hair — a moment that perfectly captures the determination and mindset that now fuels his mission to help others.
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.
