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
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland speaks with Neomi Flores, who became an amputee at age 43 after a blood clot changed her life forever. Neomi shares her powerful journey, including: The frightening symptoms that led to her amputation Facing fear and uncertainty before surgery A year in a wheelchair and the challenges of recovery Learning to walk again with prosthetics Drawing strength from her faith, her children, and small victories The meaning behind her tattoo: “Don’t just exist, live” Her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and determination—a reminder that even in life’s toughest moments, it’s possible to find purpose and live fully.
Mike Bolland highlights two powerful topics of resilience, and community. Topic 1 – A Call for Coaches ArizonAbility is launching a basketball clinic for adults with disabilities, and they’re looking for a passionate coach to lead the way. This isn’t just about basketball—it’s about confidence, teamwork, and creating a space where every player can thrive. Mike explains what this opportunity means for the community and how one coach can make a life-changing impact. Topic 2 – Inspiration from Legapalooza Mike also shares the inspiring story of Legapalooza (https://legapalooza.com/), founded by Tommy Donahue after a life-changing accident. What started as a small charity event has grown into a movement of resilience, connection, and giving back. Tommy’s journey reminds us that when we come together, we can turn challenges into opportunities for hope and empowerment.
Host Mike Bolland sits down with Alexia Michitti—a public speaker, athlete, and entrepreneur born without a right hand. Together, they reflect on their shared experiences of limb difference and Alexia’s powerful journey of resilience, determination, and innovation. Alexia shares how she’s breaking barriers in sports and beyond—from representing the U.S. in the first Women’s Amputee Soccer World Cup, to filing a patent for adaptive clothing through her brand Em13race (https://em13race.com/), to finding her voice as a motivational speaker. She opens up about life without a prosthetic, her role models, and her passion for inspiring children with limb differences to embrace their uniqueness.
