Spinal Cast

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we are joined by Topher Downham, an adventurer, educator, and quadriplegic whose happiest moments are spent in the great outdoors. Passionate about helping others with disabilities connect to nature, Topher helped create a trail guidebook for Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks, rides adaptive bikes built for every kind of terrain, travels the globe for new experiences, and started Omni Accessib...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we explore what it really means to meet someone where they are on their recovery journey. Our guests, Beth Reeves, a clinical social worker and Vanessa Jewell, an occupational therapist from The Institute of Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Memorial Herman Outpatient Rehabilitation, share how support groups and learning new skills – whether over Zoom or in person opens doors to new confidence and c...

Does attitude matter? Just ask Hunter Pinke. In this episode of Spinal Cast, we sit down with Hunter Pinke – a proud, small town North Dakotan athlete with a universal message. After a skiing accident changed his life, Hunter chose to rise, not retreat. With a big heart and an unwavering positive outlook, he’s turned adversity into purpose – helping others face their own challenges with authenticity and grace.

Hunter doesn’t su...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we’re joined by Dr. Murray Blackmore – renowned for making complex biology accessible. He breaks down the incredible science behind spinal cord repair, from neurons and axons to the genes that guide regeneration. His groundbreaking research explores how mimicking gene activity could help severed axons reconnect, offering real hope for recovery after spinal cord injury.

We also discuss a critical i...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we shine the spotlight on the 44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games, coming to Minneapolis from July 17-22, 2025. Hosted by the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs, this event is the largest adaptive sports and rehabilitation competition for U.S. military veterans with disabilities.

Our guest is Seth Thomas, President of the Minnesota Chapter of the PVA...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we’re chatting with Dr. Isaura Martins about some seriously cool science. Her lab is digging into the world of pericytes - not the spooky creature, but a real type of cell that plays a big role in protecting the vascular barrier in the spinal cord during injury and repair.

We discuss why pericytes are critical in spinal cord recovery and how winning the Wings of Life Foundation Research Award helped k...

Some people are natural athletes. They take risks and love that adrenaline high. Scott Hogsett is one of those people. After a life-changing accident left him quadriplegic in his first year of college, Scott refused to let it define his future. Instead, he pushed the limits – physically and mentally – becoming a powerhouse in the world of adaptive sports. A three-time Team USA Paralympic Wheelchair Rugby medalist, Scott clinch...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we dive into the research of Dr. Marina Martinez, Associate Professor at the Département de Neurosciences at Université de Montréal. Dr. Martinez shares her journey into neuroscience and how her passion led her to focus on spinal cord injury research.

With an in-depth understanding of the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt, she discusses the complex process of transforming ideas into viable treatmen...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we sit down with Bryan Everett, CEO of MobilityWorks, a leader in accessibility solutions for individuals with mobility challenges. From in-home lifts to custom fitted vehicles, MobilityWorks is at the forefront of innovation, addressing a wide range of needs. Bryan shares how the industry is dealing with new technologies and the importance of understanding and educating a diverse client base. He ...

It’s a small world after all! In this episode of Spinal Cast, Kevin Hoaglund Jr., Maya Robles, and Marisa Valenti share their personal journey of growing up in New Jersey with a parent paralyzed by spinal cord injury. These three adult children reflect on their unique experiences, navigating childhood, adolescence, and adulthood while providing insight into what it means to grow as individuals in a family dynamic that includes car...

Meet Ethan Glynn and Parker Durkin, brothers who love the game of football even after a life-altering tackle left Ethan, then a freshman, with a C4 spinal cord injury. In this episode of Spinal Cast, we hear about a journey of resilience, acceptance, and adaptation, as they navigate life after injury. Through candid conversation, they open up about unwavering family and friend support, the determination to push forward, and how t...

This episode of Spinal Cast highlights the transformative power of writing, community, and overcoming adversity. Our guests are Zach Foor, a rehab technician, and Greg Mans, a survivor of a C3 incomplete spinal cord injury. Their friendship began in 2020 at the Recovery Project, a neuro-specialized physical therapy clinic in Livonia, Michigan. Bonded by a shared love of nature, adventure and writing, Zach decided to hike across ...

As Election Day 2024 draws near, this episode of Spinal Cast couldn’t be more relevant. We’re excited to welcome Lydia McComas, Voter Engagement Division Manager for Hennepin County Elections (MN). Since 2022, Lydia has spearheaded voter outreach and has been part of Hennepin County since 2017. Her mission is to break down barriers and reduce disparities in voter participation, particularly for people with disabilities. Whether you...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we dive into the inspiring story of Linda Carter, whom her brother Steve affectionately calls "Wonder Woman." After a devastating snow tubing accident led to a T12/L1 incomplete spinal cord injury, Linda has been on a journey of resilience and persistence. Living with paralysis is a complex experience, filled with physical challenges and emotional ups and downs, especially when it strikes during the ...

Meet Vicky Garrison, an Air Force veteran who, after being diagnosed with cervical stenosis and myelopathy in 2003, has embraced current technology to walk again! Say hello to “Stanley Strider,” Vicky’s affectionate name for her EKSO Indego Personal Exoskeleton. In this episode we gain insight into Vicky’s remarkable journey and exceptional services provided by the Minneapolis VA.

Through her steadfast faith, positive attitude, dete...

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we learn about the remarkable programs and treatments available to veterans at the VA Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center in Minneapolis. Ryan Bouslog, a neurologic physical therapist and assistive technology professional explains the process of accessing care and emphasizes the crucial team approach of helping veterans achieve their healthcare goals.

The Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center in M...

You’ve heard the saying, “it’s the little things that make a difference,” right? In this episode of Spinal Cast you’ll discover just how profound those little things can be! Dr. Samuel Chung (Sam) and Noa Grooms hail from Northeastern University where they have been working with C. elegans (roundworms). They uncovered a fascinating phenomenon: by precisely cutting a fiber in a neuron they can observe regrowth and redevelopment ...

Josh Basile and Kelley Brooks Simoneaux, both seasoned attorneys, shed light on the multifaceted challenges individuals face after a spinal cord injury. Beyond the immediate focus of recovery, they uncover the daunting realities of navigating financial burdens, deciphering insurance complexities, managing fundraisers, safeguarding assets, and understanding one’s legal rights. Josh’s founding of SPINALpedia, aptly named for its comp...

Jack Jablonski has a tattoo on his forearm, it reads: “I understand my injury. I don’t accept it.” That should give you some insight as to who he is and how he perceives the future.

In this episode of Spinal Cast, we have a candid conversation as Jack reflects on the past 13 years. We discuss his injury, experience with the SpineX SCONE spinal electrical stimulator, and his decision to come out as a gay man. We also explore his c...