After more than 35 years away from professional bowling, I returned to compete in the PBA60 World Series of Bowling at age 61. I knew the odds weren’t in my favor. My body had changed. The equipment had changed. The competition had changed.
But this episode isn’t really about bowling.
It’s about the voice inside all of us that says we’re too old, too late, or not good enough to chase something that matters.
In this solo episode of We’re Not Stumped, I share the emotions behind my comeback, the challenges I faced on the lanes, and the unexpected lesson that came from finishing far below where I had hoped.
That lesson became a phrase I can’t stop thinking about:
Take the Shot Anyway.
Because you don’t need the perfect hand. You just need the courage to use the one you’ve got.
Whether you’re considering a career change, recovering from an injury, pursuing a dream, or simply trying something that scares you, I hope this episode gives you the encouragement to take your shot.
If you enjoy this episode, please follow We’re Not Stumped, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that it’s never too late to take a chance.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, Mike Bolland explores stories of resilience and community impact. The journey of an amputee adjusting to life after a traumatic assault and finding strength back home. The mission of Joe & Marie Bolland's Helping Hands Foundation: To empower amputees and other people with limb differences to realize their boundless potential through transformative collaboration with their peers. To nurture a mindset of infinite possibilities, foster self-advocacy, and inspire our community to live a life without limitations. Join Mike as he sheds light on these impactful stories and the unwavering human spirit.
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped, we sit down with Kelly J. Mendenhall—an accomplished author, speaker, and advocate—to explore her transformative journey from a thriving career in nonprofit fundraising to becoming a disabled entrepreneur and patient advocate. Diagnosed with rare spinal cord conditions in 2017, Kelly faced a medical mystery that led her to redefine her life and purpose. Kelly's dedication to empowering others is evident in her efforts to raise awareness about chronic pain, mental health, and the importance of patient-centered care.
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland shares two stories of courage and perseverance. The episode highlights a shark attack survivor who turned to crowdfunding after being denied insurance coverage for a prosthetic hand. This journey showcases the challenges of insurance in the area of prosthetics.



