Wheelchair Nerds

Wheelchair Nerds

Welcome to Wheelchairs Nerds – a podcast to connect and inform people who utilize, prescribe, and provide seating and wheeled mobility equipment. Have a question, suggestion, or comment? Email us at wheelchairnerds@permobil.com. The information in the podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical, billing, or legal advice.

Episodes

August 13, 2025 62 mins
In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, we sit down with occupational therapist Lee Ann Hoffman, OTD, MSc, OTR, ATP/SMS, to talk all things posture, seating, and the little details that make a big difference. She is currently the assistant program director and assistant professor of OT Programs at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Lee Ann shares her journey from South Africa to Texas, her passion for 24-hour posture...
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In this episode, we talk with Ryan Harrison, a field marketing manager at United Access. We discuss the intricacies of adaptive vehicles, the various hand controls available, and the importance of industry awareness. Ryan also shares his personal journey, from a motorcycle accident to finding a new passion in competitive shooting. Whether you're curious about adaptive driving or interested in the latest innovations in the industry,...
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Sharon Sutherland, a world-renown 24-hour posture care expert, joins Wheelchair Nerds for our 50th episode! Sharon shares her journey from sports physiotherapy to becoming a specialist in seating and positioning. We cover the importance of hands-on evaluations, understanding payer policies, and the impact of 24-hour positioning on health. Sharon addresses misconceptions about custom molded seating and dynamic solutions, emphasizin...
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In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, hosts Angie Kiger and Hawken Miller welcome David Miller, a regional clinical education manager for Permobil. David has diverse experience as an occupational therapist, ranging from a school therapist in the New York City public school system to a seating mobility specialist at Helen Hayes Hospital to an educator of complex rehabilitation technology in his current role. He explains how he discov...
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Join host Angie Kiger and Hawken Miller on Wheelchair Nerds as they interview Mark Fuglevand, founder of Abilitease. Mark, a C6 incomplete quadriplegic, shares his journey from a diving accident at 18 to creating affordable adaptive tools. We talk to Mark about transitioning from accounting to 3D printing, developing products that solve everyday problems and allow for independence. His innovations have impacted hundreds of lives, a...
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We welcome Lisa Kenyon, PT, DPT, PhD, PCS, and professor at Grand Valley State University, to this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, where we discuss all things on-time mobility. This conversation ranges from Lisa's wide-ranging experience in pediatric power mobility to stories about kids she's helped independently move to why she does it all. ***SHOW NOTES*** Andrina Sabet et al. article "ON Time Mobility: Advocating for Mobility Equ...
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In Episode 46 of Wheelchair Nerds, I sit down with Ken Winward, a legend in the TyLite world, to explore the fascinating process of creating custom-designed wheelchairs. With nearly 25 years at TyLite, Ken shares his journey from a temporary job to a lifelong mission of enhancing mobility. We delve into the Creative Mobility Division (CMD), where user-first innovations transform unique requests into reality. Ken discusses the impor...
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Join me, Angie Kiger, on Wheelchair Nerds for Episode 45: Rolling into the Kitchen: Cooking with Gabby DiSalvo. In this engaging episode, I chat with Gabby DiSalvo, a junior at UConn who is making waves with her blog, Cooking on Wheels. Gabby shares her journey of adapting her kitchen to suit her needs as a wheelchair user and discusses the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. We delve into her passion for cooking, ...
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In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, hosts Angie and Hawken sit down with industry legends and editors Michelle L. Lange and Jean L. Minkel to explore the highly anticipated 2nd edition of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide. Together, they reflect on how far the field has come—from early clinical practices to today’s evidence-informed, client-centered approaches. Hear firsthand the biggest lessons learned over ...
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April 2, 2025 18 mins
Join me, Angie Kiger, as we kick off Season 3 of Wheelchair Nerds with Episode 43: Rolling into a New Era. I'm thrilled to introduce our new co-host, Hawken Miller, who brings his unique perspective as a content marketing specialist and wheelchair user. In this episode, we reflect on the journey of Wheelchair Nerds and share exciting plans for the upcoming season. Expect engaging discussions with clinicians, end-users, and designer...
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In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, we dive deep into the world of product development with Dan Debrah, Vice President of Research and Development at Permobil. Join us as we explore the journey from concept to creation, uncovering how Dan and his team generate ideas, gather invaluable market research, and navigate the challenges of bringing products to life. 
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In this festive episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Jen Lyman, the Resource Content Manager for the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF). Jen joins us to unveil the newly released 2024 CPF Accessible Holiday Gift Guide—a thoughtfully curated resource designed to make the season brighter and more inclusive for everyone. We discuss exciting new sections, including recommendations for accessible adventures, and spotlight a few beloved ...
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In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, we discuss what to look for in a first ultralightweight manual wheelchair with insights from Rachel Fabiniak, a physical therapist by background, and Cody Verrett an long-time industry expert who has previously worked as a provider. They cover the importance of keeping in mind topics such as the rehabilitation process after an injury, potential changes in functional ability, weight of t...

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In Episode 39 of Wheelchair Nerds, I delve into the intricacies of drive wheel configurations for power wheelchairs with my guest, Amy Morgan, a leading expert in pediatric mobility. We explore the history and evolution of power wheelchairs, highlighting the unique benefits and challenges of rear-wheel, front-wheel, and mid-wheel drive systems. Amy shares her insights from years of experience in the field, discussing how different ...
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Join me, Angie Kiger, on Wheelchair Nerds for Episode 38: Building Careers: Navigating Employment with a Disability. As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I welcome guests Hawken Miller and Robbie Barbieri to share their unique journeys in the workforce. Hawken, a content marketing specialist with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Robbie, a finance professional with a spinal cord injury, discuss the challen...
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In Episode 37 of Wheelchair Nerds, I delve into the crucial topic of ultralightweight wheelchairs and their significance in advocacy. As the political climate heats up in the U.S., I explore why advocating for these highly configurable and tailored wheelchairs is essential for active users like Danica Witze, a dynamic member of the Rollettes. Joined by Alexis, an expert in funding and policy, we unpack the intricacies of Medicare's...
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Join me, Angie Kiger, on this episode of Wheelchair Nerds as we explore the continuum of care options for an aging population. Inspired by personal experiences with my own family, I delve into the complexities and challenges of long-term care. I'm joined by Ana Ncho, an occupational therapist with extensive experience in this field. Together, we discuss the various stages of care, from home health services to assisted living and nu...
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Join us as we explore outdoor accessibility for wheelchair users. We discuss funding options, grants, and non-profit organizations that can help you get the gear you need. Whether you're new to outdoor adventures or a seasoned pro, this episode offers essential insights and resources to make nature more accessible for all. Tune in and get ready to roll into your next adventure!
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August 14, 2024 48 mins
In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, Angie is joined by Cathy Carver, PT, DPT, ATP/SMS to discuss power assist devices. They break down the different types of power assist devices, including hub-mounted, rear mounted, and front mounted devices, discussing benefits and limitations of each type. The episode also guides listeners through some key objective questions to consider when evaluating if a power assist device is right for the...
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Join me, Angie Kiger, on Wheelchair Nerds as we dive into Episode 33: Joy for All: Exploring Accessibility at Morgan's Wonderland and Beyond. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in inclusive recreation. I chat with Brooke and Sharon from Morgan's Wonderland, a groundbreaking theme park designed for accessibility. Discover how Morgan's Wonderland offers unique attractions like wheelchair-accessible zip lines and wate...
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