What does it mean to tell a story about limb loss… when you haven’t lived it yourself?
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland—born without a right hand—sits down with author Jim Roberts to explore the decision to create a one-arm protagonist in his novel And Your Bird Can Sing.
This conversation goes beyond writing. It’s about representation, authenticity, and what it truly means to feel seen.
Jim shares how limb loss in his story became a powerful metaphor for grief, guilt, and forgiveness, set within a Southern Gothic coming-of-age journey through 1960s and 70s East Texas.
Together, Mike and Jim dive into:
• Writing characters with experiences different from your own
• The responsibility of representation in storytelling
• Using physical loss as emotional metaphor
• Balancing authenticity with creative freedom
• The challenges of publishing meaningful literary fiction
Jim also reflects on his late-in-life writing journey and why telling stories that matter is worth the uphill battle.
This is a thoughtful and honest discussion about voice, visibility, and the impact of storytelling—especially for communities that don’t always see themselves represented.
🔗 Learn more about Jim Roberts: https://jimrobertsfiction.com/
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In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland reviews EmpowerFest 2025, celebrating the limb loss and limb difference community with inspiring speakers, adaptive activities, and unforgettable moments. Mike also shares a story about a comedian who made a tasteless joke about the limb loss community — and how he got the comedian to remove the post. Tune in for insights, laughs, and a look at what makes the limb loss community so resilient and inspiring!
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Joslynn Bigelow, founder and CEO of Say How Consulting, for a powerful conversation on disability advocacy, system navigation, and the importance of dignity of risk. Joslynn shares her personal journey into advocacy, the launch of her consulting business, and her five guiding principles for creating inclusive services: dignity of risk, individual readiness, assess and address, authentic experience, and realistic opportunities. The discussion dives into: ✅ Why “say how” means finding solutions when systems say “no” ✅ The role of dignity of risk in fostering independence and inclusion ✅ The origins and growth of the United Adaptive Soccer Association (UASA) ✅ The challenges of advancing inclusion in adaptive sports ✅ The unique opportunities upcoming global sporting events offer for disability awareness
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Shawn Johnson, founder and executive director of Enhancing Skills for Life, and Mike St. Onge, board chairman and quadruple amputee, to explore the organization’s inspiring mission and impact. Shawn, an occupational therapist with nearly three decades of prosthetic and rehabilitation experience, shares how Enhancing Skills for Life grew from its first workshop in 2002 into a global community serving people living without both arms or all four limbs. Mike reflects on his personal journey as a quadruple amputee, highlighting the strength of peer support and empowerment in rebuilding independence. Discover how this nonprofit is transforming lives through: ✅ Workshops and skill-building events ✅ Adaptive equipment resources like the “Hands-Free Catalog” ✅ Scholarships, mentorship, and international participation ✅ Exciting future collaborations and upcoming workshops Whether you’re part of the limb loss community or simply inspired by stories of resilience and hope, this conversation is packed with insight and heart.
