We're Not Stumped | Survival Stories, Disability Stories & Recovery Journeys Podcast
We're Not Stumped is a motivational podcast featuring survival stories, recovery journeys, disability stories, amputee stories, and inspiring conversations about overcoming adversity.
Not by limb loss. Not by fear. Not by anything life throws our way.
Hosted by Mike Bolland—a one-handed cancer survivor and the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour—We're Not Stumped explores what it truly means to overcome adversity, adapt to life's challenges, and rebuild with purpose.
Launched in 2022, the podcast was created to give a voice to people navigating amputation, limb loss, disability, and other life-changing challenges. Each episode features powerful conversations with amputees, caregivers, medical professionals, advocates, athletes, and inspiring individuals who share practical insights on adaptive living, prosthetics, disability advocacy, inclusive employment, mental resilience, and finding purpose after adversity.
These are more than interviews—they are real survival stories and recovery journeys that offer hope, perspective, practical encouragement, and proof that life's greatest setbacks can become new beginnings.
Beyond the podcast, Mike is also a keynote speaker and stand-up comedian, using humor, authenticity, and real-life experience to connect with audiences while challenging perceptions about disability and resilience.
Whether you're looking for a motivational podcast, survival stories, disability stories, amputee stories, recovery journeys, or inspiring stories of resilience, We're Not Stumped delivers honest conversations that educate, encourage, and remind us that we're capable of more than we think.
Join a growing community built on resilience, connection, and the belief that no one has to face life's challenges alone.
We're Not Stumped | Survival Stories, Disability Stories & Recovery Journeys Podcast
From Paralysis to Purpose: Dr. Kirsten Ludwig's Journey as a Walking Quadriplegic
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What happens when a life-changing accident forces you to redefine what's possible?
On this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Dr. Kirsten Ludwig—a biomedical researcher, educator, former professional polo player, and advocate for disability inclusion in healthcare.
In 2021, Dr. Ludwig was paralyzed from the neck down during a horseback riding accident. Through determination, rehabilitation, and an incredible commitment to recovery, she became what she describes as a walking quadriplegic. Today, she combines her lived experience with her work as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Science at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, helping educate future physicians about disability, accessibility, and patient-centered care.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Dr. Ludwig's career as a professional polo player and biomedical researcher
- The horseback riding accident that changed her life
- How training for a 5K became a powerful rehabilitation goal
- What it means to live as a walking quadriplegic
- The importance of disability education in medical schools
- How patients can become stronger self-advocates
- Finding purpose after life-changing adversity
Dr. Ludwig's story is one of resilience, determination, and using lived experience to improve healthcare for future generations.
If you enjoy inspiring conversations about resilience, disability advocacy, and overcoming adversity, be sure to follow We're Not Stumped and share this episode with others.
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/
