Host Mike Bolland welcomes Whitney Lavender — Miss Wheelchair Tennessee 2026, author, advocate, and host of the Wits Grit podcast — for an inspiring conversation about resilience, purpose, and overcoming unimaginable challenges.
After a devastating fall led to a diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Whitney faced years of severe pain, countless treatments, and ultimately bilateral leg amputations. Rather than allowing adversity to define her, she rebuilt her life and discovered a new purpose through advocacy, storytelling, and empowering others.
In this episode, Mike and Whitney discuss:
• Living with CRPS and chronic pain
• Whitney’s amputation journey and recovery
• Phantom pain and adapting to life with prosthetics
• Overcoming depression and rebuilding confidence
• The importance of support and community
• Adaptive sports and accessibility advocacy
• Whitney’s children’s book and podcast Wits Grit
• Her journey to becoming Miss Wheelchair Tennessee 2026
Whitney’s story is a powerful reminder that our greatest challenges can sometimes reveal strengths we never knew we had.
Whitney’s Website: https://www.whitneylavender.com/
Whit & Wheels: A Journey of Courage: https://www.amazon.com/Whit-Wheels-Journey-Whitney-Lavender/dp/1959955683
🎙 Learn more about We’re Not Stumped and subscribe for more stories of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on iHeart
In this compelling episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes the incredible team behind the Hozhoni Foundation to share their inspiring mission and groundbreaking work. Joining Mike are CEO Antonia Klopstein, COO Lex Heerding, Employment Program Head Michele Eisenberg, and Art Manager Shay Vigil. Together, they discuss how the foundation empowers individuals with disabilities through innovative programs that promote independence, creativity, and community engagement.
In this compelling episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland explores three thought-provoking stories of amputation and resilience: Heroic Good Samaritan: Discover the remarkable story of a man who selflessly saved a stranded driver, resulting in a life-changing amputation. Reddit Debate: We dive into the online controversy surrounding a woman who faced backlash for lying about her amputation. Wiggle Your Toes: Learn about a nonprofit's inspiring work in supporting amputees as they regain their independence and thrive.
In this exciting episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland welcomes Dr. Benjamin S. Woodford, founder and inventor of Paraboards. This groundbreaking company is transforming the lives of wheelchair users with custom-built electric boards that bring speed, fun, and accessibility to a whole new level.
