► Tell us about you and your podcast
I was born without my right hand but didn’t let that define what I could achieve. As a child, I played Danny in The Trial of Billy Jack. Later, I made history as the first person with limb loss to compete on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour. Surviving cancer deepened my perspective on resilience and made me even more passionate about sharing stories of determination and triumph, especially within the limb loss and adaptive communities.
This podcast is about more than just overcoming adversity. It’s about the power of community and innovation. Episodes include conversations with people who are making a difference—whether it’s an athlete redefining limits, a business owner fostering inclusive workplaces, or an organization offering life-changing resources.
I’ve had the privilege of interviewing so many incredible people. From amputees from all over the globe, to occupational therapists, from nonprofits changing lives to bands like The Resilient, every guest brings a unique perspective. And through these stories, we explore not just the struggles but the solutions—adaptive sports, prosthetic technology, peer support, and so much more.
What makes We’re Not Stumped special is that it’s deeply personal. I bring my own experiences to the table, and I think that helps create a genuine connection with my guests and listeners. Whether we’re talking about employment challenges or the joy of adaptive living, the goal is always to leave all people feeling uplifted and empowered.
For me, this podcast is a way to shine a light on amazing people doing incredible things and to remind everyone—regardless of the challenges they face—that they’re not alone. That’s why it’s called We’re Not Stumped. Together, we find a way forward, and together, we flourish.
► Why & how did you start this podcast?
I started the We’re Not Stumped podcast because there were very little real life resources for those who may be beginning their own amputee journey. As I did with my own cancer journey, many turn to WebMD to try to learn more about a path moving forward. But the information on that site is technical in nature, and not necessarily practical in living with limb loss in real life. This podcast fills a void within the limb loss community.
When I started We’re Not Stumped in August of 2022, my goal was simple: to share stories that inspire, educate, and connect people. Having lived as a one-handed individual, a cancer survivor, and someone who's seen both the challenges and triumphs of life, I wanted to create a space where people could come together to celebrate resilience and rethink what’s possible.
► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?
When the topic of your podcast is your passion, you always find the time. My podcast is primarily an interview-style format and when you first start this type of podcast, attracting guests in the early stages can be challenging. I’m very happy to have turned the corner, and I now manage guest requests. However, having passion is what will get you through those early days when you need to actively seek guests.
I bootstrap my podcast and build or upgrade as needed. I will discuss the tools I use in question 5, but here are some examples: I host the podcast website through GoDaddy, and my web design background allows me to manage it using a WordPress platform with the Avada theme. I started the podcast with a Razer Kiyo webcam but later upgraded to a Logitech MX Brio Ultra.
I’ve grown this podcast organically, always keeping an eye on the next chapter, where I plan to seek sponsorship.
► What do you gain from podcasting?
As discussed in question 3, I will pursue sponsorships in the very near future. However, I have already gained more than I could ever need through the friendships and connections I’ve made because of this podcast, regardless of sponsorship.
There is nothing money can give me that compares to the feedback I receive through this platform. I’ve had people lying in hospital beds after amputations reach out to tell me how the stories shared on my podcast have positively impacted their outlook. Family members of amputees have also contacted me, expressing how the stories provide them with comfort and understanding—showing them that while life will be different, it doesn’t have to end.
I am truly honored to have created this platform where fellow members of the limb loss community can share their stories and inspire others.
► How does your podcasting process look like?
The tools I use are as follows:
Hardware:
• Webcam: Logitech MX Brio
• Microphone: Maono PD400X (an excellent sleeper mic). I upgraded from a Blue Yeti. Between the PD400X and the Blue Yeti, I tried the Rode PodMic, but it wasn’t stable in my environment.
Software:
• Video Editing: DaVinci Resolve (I started with HitFilm)
• Audio Editing: Audacity
I handle all the editing myself.
In attracting guests, I’m happy to say I’ve turned the corner, and people now reach out to me. However, there are times I will reach out to others, especially if I come across a limb loss story that I believe will benefit the community at large.
To prepare for a podcast interview, I review all the social platforms my guest participates in, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. One tip I like to share is to take a few minutes before hitting record to chat with your guest. Those few minutes provide valuable insight that can help you ask more thoughtful questions. Additionally, it allows you to gauge whether your guest tends to give quick, concise answers or is more verbose. I use this information to mentally prepare before starting the interview.
My episodes are a mix of in-person interviews and online sessions using Zoom.
► How do you market your show?
The We’re Not Stumped Amputee Podcast is available on all major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and YouTube. Social platforms include Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Most of my podcast listeners come through Apple Podcasts, accounting for 40%–45% of all listens. Overcast has seen significant growth for my podcast over the last few months, which is fantastic news.
When it comes to marketing, I think about my end user and work backward. People navigating a limb loss journey often seek information about their personal experiences. According to user research, these individuals are more likely to perform a Google search than a direct podcast search. For this reason, I focus heavily on ensuring my website is SEO-friendly.
I use the Rank Math plugin (which I prefer over Yoast) to optimize my site. To cater to the end user, I’ve clearly outlined limb loss categories, such as upper limb versus lower limb, to make information easily accessible.
All new podcast episodes are emailed to my subscribers after posting using MailPoet.
► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?
My podcast follows an interview style, so my advice is centered on that format.
First and foremost, as the host, remember that the episode is not about you—it’s 100% about your guest. If you’re not actively listening to your guest, not allowing them to answer fully, or skipping pre-interview research, your podcast is likely to fail. Potential guests will listen to your past episodes and wonder what the point is if the focus isn’t on the interviewee. Additionally, without passion, your podcast will fail. There will be highs and lows, and it’s your passion that will carry you through the challenging times.