Things I Didn’t Expect About Returning to Bowling After 30 Years

After more than 30 years away from competitive bowling, I’m discovering that some things have changed—and some things haven’t.

In this solo episode of We’re Not Stumped, I share three things that surprised me as I prepare for my return to competition at the 2026 PBA60 World Championship.

  •  The body doesn’t work quite the same at 61.
  •  Some instincts and memories never really leave.
  •  And one unexpected encounter reminded me that people still remember my days on the PBA Tour.

This episode isn’t about scores or equipment. It’s about rediscovering a part of my life I thought was behind me and finding out what’s still possible when you decide to take one more run.

As the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour, I hope this conversation encourages you to revisit a dream, try something again, or simply remember that it’s never too late to surprise yourself.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • How Denny Burke Turned Adversity into Advocacy

July 14th, 2026|

What happens when people underestimate your potential your entire life—and you refuse to let them define your future? In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, I sit down with Denny Burke, a licensed master social worker, disability advocate, and speaker who has spent his life proving that disability does not determine what someone can achieve. Growing up legally blind and facing additional disabilities, Denny endured bullying, low expectations, and barriers that could have shaped the rest of his life. Instead, with the encouragement of mentors and his own determination, he became the first person in his immediate family to graduate from college and is now dedicated to helping others find their voice through self-advocacy and social work.

  • From Paralysis to Purpose: Dr. Kirsten Ludwig's Journey

July 7th, 2026|

What happens when a life-changing accident forces you to redefine everything you thought was possible? On this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, I sit down with Dr. Kirsten Ludwig—a biomedical researcher, educator, former professional polo player, and advocate for disability inclusion in healthcare. In 2021, Dr. Ludwig was paralyzed from the neck down during a horseback riding accident. Through determination, rehabilitation, and an incredible commitment to recovery, she became what she describes as a walking quadriplegic. Today, she combines her lived experience with her work as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Science at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, helping educate future physicians about disability, accessibility, and patient-centered care.

  • Janelle Parker, founder of TAMCO Learning

June 30th, 2026|

What is it really like to live with hearing loss? . In this episode of the We're Not Stumped Podcast, Mike Bolland sits down with Janelle Parker, founder of TAMCO Learning, to discuss her lifelong journey with hearing loss and the lessons she's learned along the way. Janelle shares how she was born with a unique "cookie bite" hearing loss, received her first hearing aid before age four, and adapted to life in a world designed for hearing people. She also discusses the dramatic evolution of hearing aid technology, assistive devices, and accessibility tools that have transformed opportunities for people with hearing loss. Whether you're living with hearing loss, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about accessibility and communication, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and valuable perspective.

By |June 4th, 2026|Congenital Amputee Stories, General Disability Related Resources and News, Upper Limb Amputees|Comments Off on Things I Didn’t Expect About Returning to Bowling After 30 Years

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top