We’re Not Stumped | Motivational Podcast Featuring Survival Stories, Recovery Journeys & Disability Stories
We’re not stumped.
Not by limb loss. Not by fear. Not by anything life throws our way.
We’re Not Stumped is a motivational podcast sharing survival stories, recovery journeys, and real-life success stories from the limb loss and disability community. Hosted by Mike Bolland—a one-handed cancer survivor and the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour—this podcast highlights what it truly means to overcome adversity and rebuild with purpose.
Launched in 2022, the show was created to give a voice to individuals navigating limb loss, disability, and life-changing challenges. Each episode features powerful conversations with amputees, caregivers, medical professionals, and advocates—offering insight into adaptive living, prosthetic innovation, inclusive employment, and mental resilience.
These are more than just stories—they are recovery stories and survival stories that provide hope, perspective, and practical encouragement for anyone facing adversity.
Beyond the podcast, Mike is also a speaker and stand-up comedian, using humor and real-life experience to connect with audiences and challenge perceptions around disability.
If you’re searching for a motivational podcast, survival stories podcast, or recovery story podcast, We’re Not Stumped delivers honest, inspiring conversations from people who have faced life head-on—and refused to be defined by it.
Join a growing community built on resilience, connection, and the belief that no one has to go through this alone.
We’re Not Stumped | Motivational Podcast Featuring Survival Stories, Recovery Journeys & Disability Stories
Surviving COVID, Losing Her Legs, Finding Purpose | Brianna Heitzman’s Story
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What happens when you survive COVID… but wake up to a completely different life?
In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Brianna Heitzman, a certified employment specialist with Down Syndrome of Louisville, whose life was forever changed after a severe battle with COVID-19.
After being placed on a ventilator and ECMO, Brianna faced an unimaginable outcome—the loss of her legs. But her story doesn’t end there.
This is a conversation about resilience, identity, and rebuilding a life with purpose.
Mike and Brianna dive into:
• Her near-death experience and long road to recovery
• The emotional and physical realities of limb loss
• Learning to adapt and regain independence
• Navigating prosthetics and ongoing challenges
• The ERTL procedure and what it means for recovery
• How her experience shaped her work helping others with employment and benefits
• Her involvement with the Moving Forward Amputee Network
Brianna’s journey is raw, real, and deeply inspiring—a reminder that even after life-changing trauma, there is still a path forward.
🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more powerful stories from the limb loss and disability community.
Want to be considered as a guest? Fill out the form here: https://werenotstumped.com/podcast-guest-information/
Learn more about our host Mike Bolland: https://mikebolland.com/
