The AMP'D UP211 Podcast

In this gripping episode of The AMP'D UP211 Podcast, host and creator Rick Bontkowski sits down with Eric LeMarque, a former professional hockey player and snowboarder who endured the unimaginable. Trapped in the frozen Sierra Nevada Mountains for eight days, Eric fought against brutal conditions, isolation, and his own inner battles in a journey that would ultimately change his life forever.Eric’s story is one of survival, redemption, and faith discovered in the face of overwhelming odds. Join us as we dive into the depths of Eric’s incredible journey, exploring how he transformed his life after a life-altering ordeal. Rick, himself a right-leg amputee and inspiring force behind The AMP'D UP211 Podcast, brings unique insights to this powerful conversation about finding strength, purpose, and forgiveness.Don't miss this unforgettable episode, subscribe to stay updated and hear more inspiring stories that redefine what it means to overcome.

Get ready for an unforgettable episode of The AMP'D UP211 Podcast! Join host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a right-leg amputee and passionate advocate, as he sits down with Billy Brimblecom Jr., an unstoppable force in the limb loss community. After losing his left leg to Ewing’s Sarcoma, Billy turned his story into a mission – empowering uninsured amputees to reclaim their lives through the Steps of Faith Foundation. He's also the co-creator of Thundergong!, an annual music and comedy show with big-name stars that raises funds for this incredible cause.In this episode, Rick and Billy dive into resilience, the transformative power of music, and the importance of giving back. Hear how Billy's journey from musician to advocate inspires others, along with some behind-the-scenes scoop on Thundergong!Don’t miss this inspiring conversation full of laughter, real talk, and hope – hit play and get AMP'D UP!

In this inspiring episode of The AMP'D UP211 Podcast, host Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee (RBK) amputee, sits down with Cosi Belloso, a renowned physical therapist and breast cancer survivor, with over 23 years of experience helping amputees regain their mobility and rebuild their lives. Cosi, who runs her own outpatient clinic, Palanca, Inc., is also the host of the popular Cosi Talks, where she shares expert advice on overcoming the physical and emotional challenges of limb loss.Join us as Cosi reveals her journey from trauma ICU to transforming the lives of those with limb differences. In this heartfelt conversation, she opens up about her passion for empowering amputees, the importance of a positive mindset, and how her personal battles have fueled her mission to help others. Whether you're navigating life with limb loss or supporting someone who is, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to take the next step in your journey.Hosted by RBK amputee Rick Bontkowski, The AMP'D UP211 Podcast brings you real stories of resilience, triumph, and the power of community. Don’t miss this episode full of wisdom, hope, and practical tips for overcoming adversity.

In this powerful episode of The AMP'D UP211 Podcast, host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee amputee, sits down with Marcy Rubic, a leader in the nonprofit world and a passionate advocate for limb preservation. With over 25 years of experience, Marcy shares the incredible work being done at the Limb Preservation Foundation, where lives are being changed and limbs are being saved. From innovative prevention programs to the personal stories of those facing limb loss, Marcy offers a behind-the-scenes look at how her team is providing hope and healing to the limb loss community.Join us as we explore the inspiring impact of her work and discuss the vital role organizations like the Limb Preservation Foundation play in giving individuals the chance to reclaim their mobility and dignity.

Join host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee amputee, for an inspiring episode of The AMP'D UP211 Podcast—a show dedicated to empowering and uplifting the limb loss community through powerful stories of resilience and hope. Rick is passionate about breaking barriers and challenging preconceived notions about people with disabilities.In this episode titled "Forged by Faith," Rick sits down with Josh Reed, who shares his remarkable journey from tragedy to triumph. After a life-altering motorcycle accident led to the amputation of his leg, Josh faced immense physical and emotional challenges. Battling depression and isolation, he eventually found hope and purpose through his faith and the support of the Beautifully Flawed Foundation's Forge Retreat.Together, Rick and Josh delve into the depths of overcoming adversity, the transformative power of community, and how to turn pain into purpose. They discuss how setting small goals can lead to monumental achievements and the importance of having a brotherhood that lifts you up. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to resilience and a reminder that no matter the obstacle, you're never alone in your journey.Tune in to The AMP'D UP211 Podcast to hear two inspiring stories that prove life's greatest challenges can forge the strongest spirits. Don't miss this episode that promises to motivate and encourage anyone facing their own mountains to climb.

Today we have an extraordinary guest who has faced unbelievable challenges and emerged stronger than ever. Penny Fisher, a former model and now an author and motivational speaker, joins us to share her harrowing yet inspiring journey of survival and resilience.  Imagine being on a family vacation, enjoying the sunshine, and within days finding yourself in a coma with just a 10% chance of survival. Penny was struck by Toxic Shock Syndrome, a rare and life-threatening condition that led to multiple amputations and a fight for her very existence. Against all odds, she not only survived but has thrived, turning her experience into a powerful story of determination and hope.  Get ready to be moved and inspired by Penny Fisher's incredible story of overcoming adversity, embracing a new reality, and finding joy and purpose in the face of overwhelming odds. It is our pleasure to introduce Penny Fisher!  The AMP'D UP211 Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below The Knee Amputee.

We are proud to present Caitlin Conner. Raised in a small town in central Texas, Caitlin’s life took a dramatic turn just before her 24th birthday. A motorcycle accident led to the amputation of her left leg while she was newly pregnant, but her resilience and determination have made her a beacon of hope and empowerment for many. Caitlin is not just a survivor; she’s a trailblazer. From participating in adaptive sports to founding the groundbreaking nonprofit Be More Adaptive, she’s on a mission to create a more inclusive world for individuals with disabilities. The AMP'D UP211 Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below-The-Knee Amputee.

We are proud to present Scott Odom, a true testament to the power of resilience and determination. At just 14 years old, Scott faced a life-altering challenge when he lost his leg to cancer. Despite this daunting obstacle, he refused to let it define his future. Instead, Scott channeled his passion for basketball into a remarkable career as a professional amputee athlete. In this episode, Scott shares his personal experiences from the moment he learned about his amputation, through his rigorous recovery, to his triumphant return to the basketball court. We’ll explore his transition into adaptive sports, and the profound impact of his charity called ABI, Amputee Basketball Invigorated. Scott’s story is one of overcoming adversity, achieving greatness, and giving back to the community. The AMP'D UP211 Podcast is created and hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee amputee.

We are proud to present the incredible journey of Samantha Katie Eddington! Their story is one of unimaginable challenges, unbreakable bonds, and relentless determination. Katie was just a child when a tragic lawnmower accident changed her life forever, resulting in the loss of her leg. But this setback didn’t define her. Instead, it fueled her passion and determination to rise above adversity. Now, Katie is not only thriving but is also aspiring to compete in the Paralympics!  By her side every step of the way is her mother, Samantha. Not only has she been Katie’s biggest supporter, but she has also taken her commitment to the amputee community to new heights as a Board member of 50 Legs, a remarkable charity dedicated to providing prosthetics and ongoing care to those in need. Through their involvement with 50 Legs, Samantha and Katie have touched countless lives, offering hope, support, and inspiration to amputees around the world. The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below-Knee Amputee.

We are proud to introduce you to Sidney Muniz, the founder of Amputee Sock Prints. When Sidney's mother lost her leg below the knee due to diabetes complications, she faced the challenge with an inspiring spirit and determination. But the standard beige amputee socks didn't match her sunny disposition. Sidney realized that many amputees felt the same way about the dull and uninspiring options available to them. Driven by a desire to honor his mother's strength and to fill a gap in the market, Sidney began a stump sock revolution!  Sidney continues to inspire the entire limb difference community with his fun, inspiring, and personalized designs.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below-Knee Amputee.

We are proud to introduce you to the remarkable Major Edward Pulido. A retired U.S. Army Major, Major Ed is a man whose courage and dedication have significantly impacted countless individuals' lives. With a military career spanning 19 years, Major Ed's journey is one of extraordinary resilience, having faced and overcome immense challenges, including a life-altering injury from an IED explosion in Iraq.  Major Ed is the Founder of the John-Daly Major Ed Heart of a Lion Foundation. He is also the former Sr. VP, Co-Founding member, Ambassador for Folds of Honor Foundation and Co-Founder of Warriors for Freedom Foundation.  Major Ed Pulito is the definition of Patriotism and a true American hero.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below-Knee Amputee.

We are proud to present Motivational Speaker and Limb Difference Advocate David Powell. David's journey embodies the resilience of the human spirit. Born without hands and with malformed legs in New Orleans, he adapted early, using his feet and an electric wheelchair.  His life took a dark turn with his mother's overdose and his subsequent struggle with addiction during high school. However, David overcame these adversities and now, as a motivational speaker and married father of four, he inspires others with his story of hope, resilience, and the boundless potential within each person.  David's talks motivate others to pursue their dreams and harness the power of a positive mindset, proving through his life that despite significant challenges, one can live a life full of joy, positivity, and purpose.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.

We are proud to present Executive Director and Co-Founder of ROMP, (The Range of Motion Project), Mr David Krupa!  David has facilitated the provision of custom-made prosthetic devices to over 4,500 of the Western hemisphere’s most vulnerable individuals through a delivery model emphasizing high-quality clinical care, local investment; and advocacy. An amputee and prosthetist, he believes mobility and health are critical components in an individual’s pursuit of life’s many aspirations. When not busy working, Krupa spends his time outdoors. His passions include climbing; every year since 2015, he has been leading teams of adaptive climbers to the summits of glacier-covered volcanoes in Ecuador to raise awareness and funding for the ROMP mission.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.

We are proud to present a heart-pounding special episode of The Levitate Sport Freedom Tour, straight from the vibrant streets of Chicago!  Experience the pulse of the city as we bring you candid on-site interviews, capturing the raw energy and passion of athletes and enthusiasts alike. But that's not all! Dive deeper into the action with exclusive bonus video footage, offering a front-row seat to the thrills and triumphs of the Levitate Sports community, and hold onto your seats for a can't-miss segment featuring Sebastian Engwald Jensen, a true champion both on and off the field. As a professional para-athlete and sales executive at Levitate Sport, Sebastian shares his remarkable journey, offering insights into resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.

We are proud to present Paralympic Athlete, Ironman, and Paratriathlon American Champion Mohamed Lahna. Born in Casablanca Morrocco, Mohamed was born with a birth defect called Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency that effectively left him without a right femur and fibula.  Mohamed embodies the saying, “It’s never too late.” He was fit with his first real prosthesis at the age of 20, rode a bike for the first time at 25, crossed the Atlas Mountains at 26, and ran his first marathon at 27.   Mohamed has officially qualified for the Paralympics in Paris 2024, making him the first male Para triathlete to make Team USA.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.

We are proud to present Hugh Boyle.  Hugh is a Right below amputee and the founding partner of The Consumers with Disabilities Research Foundation, North America’s first consumer research business, focused on generating data and insights from and for the vast and valuable consumers with disabilities population. They are committed to using research to improve consumer life for the disabled community.  As a top executive in the advertising industry, Hugh brings a very interesting and relevant perspective to the entire Amputee Community as he continues his mission of advocacy and awareness. The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.

We are proud to present Professional Musician, Executive, and Motivational Speaker Todd Waites. After losing his complete arm and shoulder to cancer at 14 years of age followed by nearly two years of rigorous treatments, plus another surprising diagnosis of Thyroid cancer in late 2014, Todd has made the best of the cards dealt to him. People who know Todd Waites say he has already lived the life of 10 men. Ask Todd, and he says he’s just getting started! Todd inspires so many in the limb loss community and beyond, his public speaking engagements include schools, churches, and corporations.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.

We are proud to present U.S. Paralympic Athlete, Rancher, and Father Kevan Hueftle.  In 2005 Kevan also known as “Flea” was involved in a hunting accident that led to an amputation of his left leg below the knee.  Consequently, Flea struggled with alcoholism due to the tragic loss of his limb and the constant pain he suffered as an amputee. Through perseverance and grit, Flea decided to defy the odds and would eventually compete on the US Track and Field teams and medal as an elite Paralympic Athlete.  Kevan is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with limb loss or addiction.  It is our pleasure to introduce Kevan Hueftle!  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.Subscribe to the podcast!The AMPdUp211 Youtube ChannelRecorded at Audiohive PodcastingHosted on Transistor.fm

We are proud to present adaptive athlete and trail runner Zachary Friedley.  Zach is a congenital amputee born missing his right leg above the knee.  Zach has spent his life in the pursuit of understanding how to reach the true meaning of movement.  This ultramarathoner not only pushes himself physically but also spiritually.  Zach continues to inspire the entire amputee community through his video blogs, social media content, and special brand of wisdom. The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.Subscribe to the podcast!The AMPdUp211 Youtube ChannelRecorded at Audiohive PodcastingHosted on Transistor.fm

We are proud to present Chris Cavanaugh also known as THE MAD HIKER.  Chris is a trauma survivor who lost his left leg in a terrible auto accident that led to multiple surgeries which saved his life.  Chris has led a colorful life filled with tremendous challenges including drug addiction, and thoughts of suicide, and has risen above it all to inspire amputees and outdoor enthusiasts.  Chris challenges himself while extreme hiking in the wilderness of Kentucky.  Chris is a gifted photographer and continues to grow a loyal following through social media.  The AMP'D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right-below-knee amputee.Subscribe to the podcast!The AMPdUp211 Youtube ChannelRecorded at Audiohive PodcastingHosted on Transistor.fm