In this compelling episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Steven Vine for a raw, honest, and deeply human conversation about survival, disability, and rebuilding life after everything changes. Steven shares how a sudden medical emergency in 2016—caused by an undiagnosed genetic heart condition—led to a near-fatal aneurysm and a six-month coma. He awoke blind, a right above-knee amputee, living with an ostomy bag, and navigating chronic pain.
Before his medical crisis, Steven was a nationally ranked teenage track and field athlete who idolized Steve Prefontaine and later owned and operated a fine dining Italian restaurant. In this episode, he reflects on the physical, emotional, and psychological toll of disability, including depression, anger, opioid use and withdrawal, and the loss of relationships—while also sharing how caregiving support helped him reclaim independence.
Steven explains how his recovery inspired him to launch The Disability Diaries podcast, creating space for honest conversations that help people feel seen and less alone. The episode also explores listening to health warning signs, adapting to blindness, managing chronic pain, and redefining purpose. Steven closes by sharing updates on his upcoming memoir, Beyond These Green Eyes, and his mission to use storytelling as a tool for connection, resilience, and hope.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this episode: Lively Limbs Amputee Support Group in Mesa Celebrates 22 Years, Against All Odds: Baker County's Jay Wilson Thrives as Double Amputee Firefighter and Business Owner and Dream Home in 10 Days: Ground Broken on a Home for Quadruple Amputee. Tune in to "We're Not Stumped" for inspiring stories of triumph, support, and innovation in the limb difference community. Don't miss an episode—subscribe now!
In this episode of "We're Not Stumped," host Mike Bolland sits down with the members of The Resilient, a band composed of talented musicians who have turned their personal challenges into powerful music. The Resilient is an American rock band primarily composed of severely wounded U.S. combat veterans, whose focus is writing and performing music that reflects the inspirations and hardships they've experienced in both their civilian lives and military careers.
In this powerful episode of "We're Not Stumped," hosted by Mike Bolland, we share three remarkable stories of resilience, determination, and triumph. Join us as we explore: The story of a man who lost both legs but continues to inspire others, woman born without arms now driving and Atlantic City police officer with limb loss threw out the first pitch at a Phillies game.
