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
Writing Limb Loss with Respect | Author Jim Roberts on Representation & Storytelling
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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/
🎧 Follow We’re Not Stumped for more real conversations on resilience, disability, and the human experience.
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/
