Blind Abilities Podcast

For much of the world’s population, many technological devices are out of reach due to factors such as cost and electricity constraints. Solar Grove Solutions seeks to close this technology gap so that everyone has access to the content that matters most to them. The Vine C product line offers a durable, portable, solar powered solution for storing audio books as well as many other file formats in a simple compact design. Join Blind Abilities podcast host Simon Bonenfant, live at the 2024 NFB Convention in Orlando Florida, as he sits down with Allen Decker, Accessibility Specialist at Solar Grove Solutions. Learn about the mission of the company, the populations they serve around the world, detailed features of the Vine C1 media player, and get a preview of the Vine C2 talking recorder, scheduled to be released in the near future!   To learn more, visit the Vine C1 Product Page. If you are an organization looking for custom products to fit your needs, visit their Contact Page. And don’t forget to check back o

In the age of digital technology, companies are increasingly turning to self-service touch screen kiosks. Partnering with screen reading manufacturers such as TPGI and the Jaws screen reader, Storm Interfaces designs tactile keypads that are accessible for everyone. Join Blind Abilities podcast host Simon Bonenfant, live from the 2024 NFB National Convention in Orlando Florida, as he speaks with Nicky Shaw about solutions for accessible kiosks. Listen as Nicky gives a quick tip that anyone can use to find out if a company’s kiosk is accessible. Interested in advocating for accessible kiosks in your daily life? You can refer businesses to contact Storm Interfaces by visiting their Website. If you’d like to contact Nicky directly, send her an email at nickys@storm-keypads.com   We hope you have enjoyed this interview. If you would like to learn more and contact us, you can follow us on Twitter @Blind Abilities On the web at www.blindabilities.com Send us an email at info@blindabilities.com Get the Free Blind A

In this episode of Blind Abilities, high school student Connor Kunze discusses the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program, which allows students to earn college credits while still in high school. Connor shares his experiences with accommodations, the transition from high school to college, and the challenges of balancing responsibilities. He emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, seeking support, and understanding available resources, offering valuable insights for blind and low vision students preparing for their academic journey.   Full Transcript   Check out the College 101 Webinar podcast episode.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.  

  State Services for the Blind and the Lighthouse Center for Vital Living collaborated with Wilderness Inquiry to offer a unique camping and canoeing experience for Pre-ETS students at Interstate State Park, Minnesota. This initiative aimed to empower blind and low-vision youth by enhancing their independence, self-advocacy, and teamwork skills. Participants engaged in a range of outdoor activities, including setting up tents, canoeing on the St. Croix River, and exploring hiking trails, all while learning valuable skills for navigating the outdoors. This inclusive event showcased the possibilities of outdoor recreation for individuals of all abilities, inviting more people to explore the natural world.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript    

In Episode 40 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, are joined by Blind Abilities own Jeff Thompson to talk about a subject that came up pre-show. Anxiety and Ageing. How it looks and how we feel about it. Everyone has a timeline and society seems to have expectations, so how do we handle change, when time is the ticking factor.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Read More

In Episode 39 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, take on the challenges that one may feel with all the political happenings during this election year. How we balance trying to be informed without overloading and possible stressful interactions with friends and family.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

Joining Jeff in the Blind Abilities Studio is Aly Slaughter. Aly is a legally blind yoga teacher who believes that yoga is for all people of all abilities and in all bodies. Aly offers accessible practices by using detailed verbal descriptions and suggesting various options, encouraging you to listen to and trust yourself and explore what works best for YOU! Aly has found that both sighted and blind participants benefit from inclusive language as it helps make the practice feel easier to understand. Yoga is much more than a physical practice. Aly would love for you to join her in exploring its many benefits for your mind, emotions, body and soul! You can find out more about Yoga with Aly on the web. On Facebook and on Instagram And you can email Alyas well.

In this episode of Blind Abilities, hosts Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson are joined by Sedona Dave and Bari Azman from AWarewolfGear to introduce the latest innovation in cane design, the Urban Xplorer Cane. They delve into the features and benefits of this new product, designed for enhanced urban navigation and all-terrain versatility. The conversation also touches on the predecessor, the All Terrain Cane', highlighting the evolution leading to the development of the Urban Xplorer Cane. Listen in as the story unfolds leading to the development of an entirely new design stemming from listener feedback and the needs of the users themselves. did I mention the different array of colors the cane tips come in? How about the AWarewolf Gear merch? Check it out! To find out more about the All Terrain Cane and the New Urban Zplorer Cane check out the AWareWolf Gear web site. Read More

Full Transcript In this episode, Peer Ambassadors, Amy and Maddy, introduce themselves and share their personal journeys, detailing how they became connected with State Services for the Blind (SSB). They discuss the support and guidance they received from SSB counselors, including the benefits of having counselors attend IEP meetings. The episode explores various programs and activities offered by SSB that empower students with vision loss, such as Orientation and Mobility training, Assistive Technology education, Career Exploration, and engaging summer camps. Amy and Maddy highlight the strong sense of community found while participating in the events and the positive impact it has on participants. They conclude with an inspiring message, encouraging listeners to connect with SSB and embrace a fulfilling life despite vision loss. Tune in to discover how SSB can help you achieve your goals and live the life you want. To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they c

Join Blind Abilities podcast host Simon Bonenfant, live from the 2024 NFB National Convention in Orlando Florida, as he chats with Jeff Bazer, Regional Director of Sales at Vispero, about their current product offerings, as well as many exciting AI enhancements to the Jaws screen reader.   One of the most notable updates in Jaws 2024 is a new set of features complementing the Picture Smart function. Using two Chat bot models, Chat GPT from open AI, as well as Claude from Anthropic, users can either import a picture on their computer, or take a live screenshot of any window, and receive two real-time detailed descriptions of the image being presented. Users also have the ability to ask follow-up questions, as standard practice with many AI image detection apps. Listen as Jeff demos the feature on both Amazon and YouTube.   Jeff also shares a brand-new feature just announced at the NFB convention, which allows for a conversational commands search of any freedom scientific training and help topics. This feature

In Episode 38 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, dive into the concept of "normal." They explore questions such as: What does "normal" mean? Who defines it, and for whose benefit? Isn't it our differences that make us unique? Join Beth and Robin as they critically examine the idea of normalcy and celebrate the diversity that sets us apart.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

In this focus on student Internships, State Services for the Blind's Transition Work Opportunities Navigator, Randi Lasher, gives us an overview of student internships and how SSB works with the students to assist them in achieving their career goals. Listen in as Joshua, Qi, Jackson, and Josh share their experiences of gaining and internship, describing what they do and give some good advice for those seeking an internship. If you have any questions about student internships, career goals, or to find out what State Services for the Blind can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us. Full Transcript   Contact State Services for the Blind If you reside in Minnesota, and you would like to know more about Transition Services from State Services contact Pre-ETS Program and Transition Services Coordinator Shane DeSantis by email or 651-358-5205. Thanks for listening!

In Episode 37 of Wellness Wednesday, join hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, as they delve into the essential steps for finding a good therapist. Discover what to look for in a therapist's style, how to navigate insurance versus private pay options, and most importantly, how to recognize when therapy might be the right choice for you. Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or looking to switch therapists, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical tips to guide you on your wellness journey. Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes. Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Read More

Full Transcript   The Students of  the Summer Transition Program (STP), toured State Services for the Blind (SSB), which provides resources and training in independent living skills, job readiness, orientation & mobility, and college preparation for blind, visually impaired, and deaf-blind students. During this tour, students engage in activities like job shadowing, mock interviews, employment readiness, and learning about accessible technology. The STP program aims to equip students with essential skills for life after high school, emphasizing the wide range of services SSB offers to support their success and independence.   Contact State Services for the Blind If you reside in Minnesota, and you would like to know more about Transition Services from State Services contact Pre-ETS Program and Transition Services Coordinator Shane DeSantis by email or 651-358-5205. Thanks for listening!

In the futuristic world of digital landscapes and interstellar travel, Paul Martz stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity. An award-winning blind science fiction author, technology blogger for Applevis, and former punk rock drummer, Paul thrives on embracing challenges and pushing boundaries. Despite his visual impairment, Paul has ventured into the uncharted territories of  becoming an editor while his gripping tales of futuristic adventures are being amplified and winning awards. Check out his award winning flash fiction piece, More Than Electric Sheep . As an editor for the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers group, Paul collaborates on projects that stretch the imagination. His latest co-edited work with Linda Ditchkus, the 2024 RMFW anthology "Without Brakes, Fingers Crossed," is now available on Amazon, inviting readers to dive into worlds without limits. A lifelong learner, Paul’s interests span from braille and music to the mysteries of the cosmos. Residing in the mountainous realms of Colorado,

In episode 36 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, delve into the dynamics of arguments and effective communication during conflicts. They share insights on recognizing the signs that indicate it’s time to step back from a heated discussion. Join Beth and Robin as they offer practical advice on how to avoid unproductive battles of words and maintain healthier conversations.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!   Read more

In this 35th episode of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore how group settings like college classes, meetings, and PowerPoint presentations can often be inaccessible. They discuss how this inaccessibility can make it hard for people to access information and participate in discussions, leading to feelings of isolation. Beth and Robin share their experiences and strategies for handling these challenges and making group settings more inclusive.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you! read More

Shane DeSantis joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to announce the June 17th Golf Event for students with State services for the Blind.   Full Transcript When Monday June 17 from 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon Where Oak Marsh Golf Course 526 Inwood Ave North Oakdale, MN Who SSB students and students 8 and up. What An introduction to golf specifically for students who are blind or visually impaired will include a brief overview of the sport of golf and the object of golf, games and drills which include sound sources and equipment for the clinic. Explore the great game of golf. Pizza will be provided for lunch Transportation for students enrolled in SSB can be arranged. The clinic is free! To Register/Questions If you are an SSB student please register with Shane by emailing him at shane.desantis@state.mn.us. If you are not an SSB student please register by emailing Angie Ause at angela.ause@spps.org. Contact State Services for the Blind If you reside in Minnesota, and you would like to know more about Trans

Join us on Blind Abilities as we talk with Gina Martin, founder of Diverse Abilities. Diagnosed with Progressive Cone Dystrophy in 1992, Gina's journey to embrace her blindness began in 2015. After an intensive 9-month rehabilitation at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, Gina transformed her life and career, focusing on disability awareness and empowerment. Since founding Diverse Abilities in 2019, she has delivered impactful workshops promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and language (IDEAL). we hope you enjoy Gina’s inspiring story and insights on creating more inclusive environments. You can find out more about Gina and Diverse Abilities on the web. Read More

In this 34th episode of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore the concept of self-identity and the impact of external influences on our personal definitions of who we are. Join Beth and Robin as they guide you through the process of embracing your authentic self and understanding that your identity is yours to define, free from the noise and expectations of others. Tune in to discover how to confidently navigate your path and stay true to yourself.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Read More