Breaking Barriers, Building Community: How One Podcast is Transforming the Amputee Experience

Rick Bontkowski is a beacon of hope and resilience for the amputee community. As the host of the Amp’d Up211 Podcast, Rick has created a platform that uplifts, inspires, and educates listeners about the realities of living with limb loss. His journey from being a right below-the-knee amputee to a passionate advocate showcases the power of storytelling and community.

Rick’s life took a dramatic turn in 2016 when he lost his foot due to bone disease. Initially overwhelmed by the challenges of limb loss, he quickly committed himself to regain an active lifestyle. From cycling almost daily to returning to drumming, Rick embraced his new reality with determination. He believes that his amputation has pushed him toward becoming a fitter version of himself, allowing him to pursue his dreams without feeling limited by his prosthesis.

The idea for Amp’d Up211 emerged from a conversation with a friend who suggested starting a podcast for amputees. Although Rick was initially unfamiliar with podcasting, he recognized it as an ideal medium to share stories that resonate within the amputee community. The podcast launched in June 2022 and has since reached listeners in over 25 countries. Rick’s natural curiosity and passion for connecting with people have made him an engaging host. He curates diverse guests, from Paralympians to business professionals, ensuring that every episode offers something relatable for listeners.

While Amp’d Up211 is rooted in inspiration, Rick also addresses serious topics like mental health, social anxiety, and the emotional struggles that often accompany limb loss. He aims to create a welcoming space where listeners can find solace and understanding, replicating the warmth he experienced from other amputees during his own journey. One poignant moment came when Rick helped a young mother whose son had suffered severe injuries from a lawnmower accident. Through connections made on the podcast, they facilitated care for her son, demonstrating how Amp’d Up211 serves as more than just entertainment, it’s a lifeline for those in need.

Rick’s dedication to the amputee community is evident in every episode. He believes that sharing stories can inspire others to take action whether it’s getting out of their chairs or pursuing their dreams. His mission is clear: if he can motivate even one person through his podcast, he feels he has succeeded.

Rick Bontkowski’s journey from an amputee navigating personal challenges to a powerful voice in the limb loss community exemplifies resilience and advocacy. Through Amp’d Up211, he continues to break barriers, challenge misconceptions, and empower others facing similar journeys. His work serves as a reminder that while limb loss presents unique challenges, it can also lead to profound growth and connection within a supportive community.

If you want the chance to connect with Rick in person, he will be attending our Hope Beyond Limits symposium on April 25, 2025 at the Denver Mariott West in Golden, Colorado. Please visit limbpreservation.org/symposium to learn more about how to register for this event! If you are unable to attend this event, be sure to check out Amp’d Up211: new episodes are released bi-monthly on platforms like YouTube and all major podcast services!