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
In 2013, Armeda Batchler made the life-altering decision to amputate her left leg above the knee after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma—just months after becoming a new mother. Determined to push forward, she balanced recovery, parenting, and work with remarkable strength. Yet behind the resilience, Armeda faced hidden struggles: depression, isolation, and the difficulty of asking for help. Over time, she discovered the healing power of connection, rebuilding a local amputee support group and embracing advocacy to support others walking a similar path. In this heartfelt conversation, Armeda opens up about her cancer journey, the challenges of raising her daughter while adapting to limb loss, and how hope and community helped her transform struggle into purpose.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland examines leadership at the Amputee Coalition. Between 2019 and 2022, CEO compensation jumped 107%. Cass Isidro led the organization from February 2023 until August 22, 2025. While reliable sources say she did a good job, Mike discusses why long-term leadership is vital for the limb loss community—highlighting the value of someone deeply committed to the cause rather than viewing the role as a career step. He also shares why he personally would not seek recommendation letters for the Certified Peer Visitor program.
Dr. Christopher Duncan, Chief Medical Officer at Biologic Input Output Systems (BIOS), joins We’re Not Stumped with host Mike Bolland for a deep dive into neurotechnology and the future of prosthetics. With a background in rehabilitation medicine, Christopher explains how BIOS is combining advanced materials, neurophysiology, and machine learning to create prosthetic technology that restores natural movement and touch—far beyond what he calls today’s “Civil War technology.” The discussion also explores data registries, privacy concerns, and partnerships with leading institutions to expand access.
Leave A Comment