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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In this episode, we welcome Adrienne Hill, a certified prosthetist orthotist (CPO) and Program Director of the Master’s of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics at Kennesaw State University. With a background in physics, mathematics, and health administration, Adrienne brings a unique perspective to the field. Her passion for prosthetics and orthotics is deeply personal—both her great-grandfather and father were amputees, inspiring her commitment to improving patient care. Adrienne has extensive experience as a former area clinic manager, where she provided clinical care, advocated for patients, and mentored future professionals. Now, she is dedicated to shaping the next generation of POP (Prosthetist-Orthotist-Prosthetist) professionals, ensuring they blend traditional care with cutting-edge technology.
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In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Dr. Stephanie Cawthon, a disabled author, speaker, and researcher, to discuss her groundbreaking new book, Disability as Human. As a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and the founder of the National Disability Center for Student Success, Stephanie wears many professional "hats" in her mission to advance accessibility and disability inclusion. Beyond individual experiences, Stephanie and Mike explore the importance of systems-level work in accessibility. Stephanie highlights the need for proactive and sustainable solutions that bring disabled students into the heart of decision-making. She also delves into the challenges and rewards of driving meaningful, large-scale change. Join us for an insightful discussion that redefines how we view disability and inclusion in education and beyond!
