After experiencing sudden hearing loss following the birth of her first child, Tiffany Storrs faced a new reality: navigating motherhood, family life, and an acting career while becoming bilaterally deaf.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, actor, author, and speaker Tiffany Storrs joins Mike Bolland for an honest conversation about deafness, cochlear implants, self-advocacy, and adapting to unexpected change.
Tiffany shares why she explored cochlear implants while learning American Sign Language with her family, what people misunderstand about hearing technology, and why successful adaptation doesn’t erase the need for accessibility.
She also recounts a life-threatening heart arrhythmia discovered during surgery that led to a pacemaker—and a new perspective on accepting support, surrendering control, and living in the present.
We discuss:
• How hearing loss affected Tiffany and her family
• Learning to hear through cochlear implants
• The challenges of living with a hidden disability
• Advocating for accommodations as a deaf actress
• Accessibility and disability representation in entertainment
• The experiences behind her book, Adaptability
Tiffany’s story offers a personal look at finding new ways forward while acknowledging the challenges that remain.
Learn more about Tiffany: https://www.tiffanystorrs.com
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Join us as we delve into the groundbreaking work of Dr. Eric Martin, Chief of Vascular Surgery at OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, and recipient of the 2025 OSF Innovator of the Year award. Dr. Martin's regenerative reconstruction techniques are offering new hope to patients facing potential amputations due to severe infections, traumatic injuries, or chronic ulcers. Utilizing biological materials like fish skin and pig bladder, these innovative procedures aim to restore tissue and preserve limbs.
Tom Jalinski, a double amputee from Littleton, is taking on a monumental challenge—hiking all 1,200 miles of Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail. In this episode, Tom shares his inspiring journey, from his past as an avid climber to the rigorous training he’s undergone to prepare for this six-month trek. He discusses the physical and mental challenges amputees face, his goal of raising awareness about life after limb loss, and the message he hopes to send to both the amputee and able-bodied communities. With a crowdfunding campaign to support his journey and a determination to prove that physical limitations don’t define one’s potential, Tom’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering spirit. Tune in to hear how he’s turning obstacles into opportunities—one step at a time.
In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland speaks out about a disturbing incident from the UK, where a woman without limb loss took to social media to mock individuals with visible limb differences—specifically targeting those with “nubs.” Mike calls out the cruelty and ignorance behind her actions, while emphasizing an important point: don’t give bullies the attention they crave. Sharing her posts only gives her more exposure and power. Instead, Mike encourages the limb loss community to rise above the hate—and to support one another with confidence and pride. “You are strong. You are resilient. And your difference is nothing to be ashamed of.” This episode is both a call for accountability and a reminder that dignity, not mockery, deserves the spotlight.
