John Register is a two-time Paralympian, a Paralympic Games Silver Medalist, a Persian Gulf War veteran, and a TEDx motivational speaker. He is also the founder of Inspired Communications International, an organization specializing in motivational keynote speaking, training, and coaching services. He is also a best selling author with his ebook 10 POWER STORIES To Impact Any Leader. Even with all of that, until just a few months ago, John was the Acting President and CEO Amputee Coalition, and now serves on their Board of Directors.
In this episode, I talk to John about getting injured while training for the 1996 Olympics – an injury which ultimately led to an amputation. But his story didn’t end there, in fact, it just begun. John tells the story about his recovery and making to the 1996 Paralympic games. John also talks about his time with the @AmputeeCoalition and the exciting future that lies ahead in every aspect, which includes AC Connect and YEP (Youth Engagement Program) . Wrapping up this fantastic episode are discussions about Limb Loss/Difference Awareness Month and what exciting things John is working towards in his future.
Discussed in this episode:
John Register & Inspired Communications: https://johnregister.com/
10 POWER STORIES To Impact Any Leader: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Stories-Impact-Any-Leader-ebook/dp/B085VKRH3T
Amputee Coalition: https://www.amputee-coalition.org/
YEP: https://www.amputee-coalition.org/events-programs/youth-engagement-program-yep/
AC Connect: https://www.amputee-coalition.org/ac-connect/
Paralympics: https://www.paralympic.org/
#Amputee #AmputeeStrong #AmputeeLife #WereNotStumped #AmputeeSupport
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
Are you thinking about starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? So many people reach out asking how to get started. And while podcasting isn’t terribly difficult, those first few episodes can feel time-consuming and a bit overwhelming. Here’s an easier way to try it out: 👉 Come guest-host a solo episode of We’re Not Stumped and share your personal story. These are single-person episodes — no guests allowed — giving you the space to speak openly and authentically. Episodes are 10–15 minutes long, making this a simple, low-pressure introduction to podcasting. All you need to do is record on your own device (yes, your phone works great) and tell your story or share insights from your experience. I’ll handle the intro and outro, along with all final edits, to ensure the episode matches the tone and quality of the show.
In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Belma Islamovic, a double above-elbow amputee, community advocate, and proud member of the Dallas Amputee Network. Mike and Belma first met at Empower Fest in Arizona, and today she shares her remarkable story of survival, resilience, and hope. Belma recounts: • Surviving a devastating explosion during the Bosnian War • Her long medical journey from Bosnia to Italy and ultimately to the United States • Adapting to life without prosthetics and mastering daily tasks using her feet • The emotional and mental health struggles she overcame through support and therapy • Her connection with the Dallas Amputee Network and the power of community Belma’s story is a powerful reminder of human strength, compassion, and the importance of support networks for amputees and trauma survivors.
Civil rights advocate Marc Fishman joins host Mike Bolland to shed light on a critical but overlooked issue: the routine denial of disability accommodations in America’s family courts. After a devastating car accident left him with long-term disabilities and communication challenges, Marc entered a 49-month legal battle—not just for his parental rights, but for his basic ADA protections. He details how New York courts repeatedly refused accommodations like real-time transcription, the federal ADA victories he secured, and how Tennessee v. Lane shaped his fight for access. Marc also reveals the retaliation he faced from judges and public officials and discusses his successful advocacy during COVID helping disabled tenants obtain rent grants. With recent legislative wins offering hope, Marc emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and reform to protect disabled parents nationwide.
Leave A Comment