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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Join us as we delve into the groundbreaking work of Dr. Eric Martin, Chief of Vascular Surgery at OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, and recipient of the 2025 OSF Innovator of the Year award. Dr. Martin's regenerative reconstruction techniques are offering new hope to patients facing potential amputations due to severe infections, traumatic injuries, or chronic ulcers. Utilizing biological materials like fish skin and pig bladder, these innovative procedures aim to restore tissue and preserve limbs.
Tom Jalinski, a double amputee from Littleton, is taking on a monumental challenge—hiking all 1,200 miles of Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail. In this episode, Tom shares his inspiring journey, from his past as an avid climber to the rigorous training he’s undergone to prepare for this six-month trek. He discusses the physical and mental challenges amputees face, his goal of raising awareness about life after limb loss, and the message he hopes to send to both the amputee and able-bodied communities. With a crowdfunding campaign to support his journey and a determination to prove that physical limitations don’t define one’s potential, Tom’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering spirit. Tune in to hear how he’s turning obstacles into opportunities—one step at a time.
In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland speaks out about a disturbing incident from the UK, where a woman without limb loss took to social media to mock individuals with visible limb differences—specifically targeting those with “nubs.” Mike calls out the cruelty and ignorance behind her actions, while emphasizing an important point: don’t give bullies the attention they crave. Sharing her posts only gives her more exposure and power. Instead, Mike encourages the limb loss community to rise above the hate—and to support one another with confidence and pride. “You are strong. You are resilient. And your difference is nothing to be ashamed of.” This episode is both a call for accountability and a reminder that dignity, not mockery, deserves the spotlight.
