Afleveringen
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State Services for the Blind has an exciting lineup of opportunities designed to help blind and low vision students build confidence, make friends, and develop real-world skills throughout the summer and fall. In this episode, Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis and Peer Ambassadors Ava and Preston share upcoming events, including visits to the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind summer program, a volunteer evening with Every Meal, presentations at the ECC summer camp, an accessible camping adventure with Wilderness Inquiry, a canoe trip on the Mississippi River, and a fall technology workshop focused on college and career success. Along the way, they explain how these activities encourage independence, teamwork, leadership, and community involvement while creating meaningful connections with other students who share similar experiences. They also invite students to help shape future activities by sharing their ideas and interests, making this episode both an update on upcoming events and an invitation to become part of Minnesota's growing blind and low vision community.
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Full Transcript:
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Jeff Thompson welcomes Sree Roy back to Blind Abilities for a conversation that begins with rising technology costs and quickly evolves into something much deeper. They discuss Apple's price increases, AI subscriptions, and how accessibility technology is becoming more expensive for everyone. From there, the conversation turns to the gradual experience of vision loss and the emotional adjustments that accompany it. Jeff shares how subtle changes in his own vision have made organization, workflow, and daily routines more important than ever, while Sree reflects on his journey from fear to confidence after losing his sight. Together they explore the value of taking small steps, learning new skills early, leaning on the blindness community, and celebrating everyday accomplishments. Whether discussing VoiceOver, organizing a workshop, or simply finding the kitchen sink, this episode reminds listeners that blindness is not about giving things upâit's about discovering new ways to keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Main Topics
Summer plans, fitness, and everyday life. Apple price increases, AI subscriptions, and the growing cost of accessibility technology. The personal experience of gradual vision loss and recognizing changing abilities. Practical strategies for organization, safety, and adapting daily routines. Learning blindness skills early and accepting change one step at a time. Finding encouragement through community, organizations, and shared experiences. Celebrating small victories and understanding that every journey is unique.Memorable Quotes
"We are going to encounter a lot of trials⊠but we do have a community, organizations, and individuals that support us."
"My Kilimanjaro is pretty small things, but I get rewarded from them."
"There's a lot of things that I thought being blind, you can't do⊠and then you hear these stories of people doing amazing things."
"Little steps take us far."
Check out Blind Abilities on all the socials.
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Full Transcript
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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This episode offers an inside look at the rewarding role of a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota through the journey of Lindsay Escalera. From an undecided college student to a passionate rehabilitation professional, Lindsay shares how hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a desire to help others shaped her career. She explains how counselors guide students and adults through career planning, adjustment to blindness training, assistive technology, college, trades, and employment, all supported by a collaborative team of specialists. Lindsay also reflects on participating in Minnesota's immersive Adjustment to Blindness training, describing how the experience gave her a deeper understanding of the challenges, emotions, and successes that blind individuals experience. Whether you're a teacher, rehabilitation professional, student exploring a meaningful career, or someone interested in the services available through State Services for the Blind, this conversation highlights the power of teamwork, lifelong learning, and helping people achieve independence and meaningful employment.
Full Transcript
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
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In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson welcomes Sarina Boley, a Vocational Rehabilitation Technician at State Services for the Blind, to share her journey into the world of Vocational Rehabilitation and Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). Sarina explains how VR Technicians support counselors behind the scenes while helping students prepare for employment, college, and independent adulthood. She reflects on her immersive Adjustment to Blindness Training, discovering a new appreciation for Braille, assistive technology, orientation and mobility, and the many services available to blind and low vision Minnesotans. Sarina also discusses her educational path, her goal of becoming a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, and the value of learning while working directly with students. Whether you're a student exploring future careers, a teacher of the blind, or a rehabilitation professional, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the people, training, and dedication that help open doors to independence, employment, and lifelong success.
Full TranscriptLinks of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
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Jeff, Pete, Christina, and Lori gather for a relaxed conversation filled with stories, laughter, and thoughtful reflections. The discussion begins with excitement over the Amadeus Pro beta and the future of audio production on Apple Silicon Macs. From there, each shares memories of mentors and advocates who encouraged independence, informed decision-making, and the attitude of simply doing what needs to be done. The group explores the importance of maintaining connections in both blindness and mainstream communities, appreciating the perspectives each brings. They also talk about everyday accessibility, highlighting simple solutions such as fountains, wind chimes, textured surfaces, and other environmental cues that make life easier. Later, the conversation turns to emerging technology, including smart glasses, Aira, scanning apps, and privacy concerns. Along the way, memories from conventions, podcasting adventures, and a few musical tangents create a fun and engaging conversation among friends.
Major Topics in Chronological Order
Introductions and weather banter. Amadeus Pro and the new Apple Silicon beta. Accessibility and the longevity of audio production tools. Mentors, advocates, and people who shaped their blindness journey. Attitude, informed choice, and the "just do it" mindset. Balancing blindness communities with mainstream communities. Maintaining friendships with both blind and sighted people. Everyday accessibility and practical low-tech solutions. Using sound and texture as orientation cues around the home. Memories from ACB and NFB conventions. Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses and the future of wearable AI. Aira integration and hands-free access. Scanning apps, privacy, and document reading. Seeing AI improvements and simplified interfaces. Music, iBUG Today, and closing humor.Products and Services Discussed at Length
Audio and Podcasting
Amadeus Pro HairerSoft Apple Silicon MacsWearable Technology
Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Google AI Glasses (future possibilities) Rumored Apple GlassesAccessibility Services
Aira Aira AIReading and Recognition Apps
Voice Dream Scan Seeing AICommunities and Organizations
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) American Council of the Blind (ACB) iBUG Today -
In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff explore the value of slowing down and creating space to simply be. Their conversation wanders through topics ranging from technology, noise, and daily stress to the unique experiences of living with vision loss and the mental energy required to navigate the world.
Together, they reflect on the difference between constant doing and intentional being, discussing how quiet moments can provide rest, clarity, and a sense of grounding. They share personal experiences about finding comfort in familiar environments, spending time in nature, listening to birds, walking without distractions, and creating calming spaces at home that encourage relaxation and reflection.
The discussion also touches on the importance of relationships, changing priorities as we grow older, and how our understanding of time evolves throughout life. Through humor, thoughtful insights, and honest conversation, the hosts invite listeners to consider what brings them peace, how they spend their time, and what helps them stay grounded in an increasingly busy world.
Join Beth, Robin, and Jeff as they reflect on the importance of creating room for silence, presence, and personal reflection, and discover why sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is simply be.
Full Transcript:
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. They are looking forward to hearing from you!
Thanks for listening!
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Christina, Lori, and Jeff gather in the Blind Abilities Studio for an honest and engaging conversation about parenting from a blindness perspective. They share their experiences of starting families, raising children, adapting to new challenges, and learning alongside their kids every step of the way.
As they discuss the joys, surprises, and everyday realities of parenthood, one message becomes clear: parenting is less about vision and more about finding practical ways to make life work for your family. Along the way, they discovered opportunities to educate others, challenge misconceptions, and demonstrate that blindness does not define their ability to be loving, capable, and involved parents.
Through personal stories, laughter, and reflection, Christina, Lori, and Jeff offer insight, encouragement, and reassurance for anyone who is raising children, considering parenthood, or simply interested in hearing real-life experiences from blind parents.
Join us for this thoughtful and inspiring conversation.
Leave us your feedback, suggestions, and comments by calling 612-267-6093. We'd love to hear from you.
Thanks for listening.
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Jenine Stanley joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to discuss Aira's new Build AI Program, an initiative designed to help shape the future of accessible technology. The program gives Aira users an opportunity to contribute to the development and improvement of AI-powered accessibility tools while continuing to benefit from Aira's professional Visual Interpreters.
Jenine explains how Build AI works, what participation means for users, and the safeguards Aira has put in place to protect privacy. Participation is completely voluntary, users can opt out at any time, and no personally identifiable information is shared with Aira's AI partners. As an added benefit, Build AI participants receive complimentary Aira minutes for the month of June and more opportunities throughout the year.
Tune in to learn how Aira is combining human expertise and emerging artificial intelligence to create new possibilities for blind and low vision users, while keeping accessibility, privacy, and user choice at the center of the conversation.
Learn more about Build AI by visiting Aira's Frequently Asked Questions
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Minnesota's first Cane Quest brought together students, families, teachers, orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, and volunteers for a day focused on confidence, independence, and real-world travel skills.
âą Students practiced tactile maps, cardinal directions, obstacle detection, stair travel, street crossings, and locating destinations using white cane techniques.
âą Activities were designed for different ages, skill levels, and visual abilities, helping students grow through hands-on experiences and peer connections.
âą Parents attended informational sessions with experts in orientation and mobility and assistive technology, learning how to better support independence at home and school.
âą Volunteers and instructors emphasized allowing students to lead, encouraging confidence and problem-solving skills.
âą Paralympian and keynote speaker Max Nelson inspired students with his story of perseverance, independence, and self-confidence.
Cane Quest celebrated more than competitionâit highlighted mobility, teamwork, community support, and the belief that blind and visually impaired students can achieve extraordinary goals.
- The Minnesota Cane Quest Planning Team
Madi Ericksen, BrightWorks/SparkPath
Colleen Feller, BrightWorks/SparkPath
Jenny Pelletier, State Services for the Blind
Joya Musa, Minneapolis Public Schools
Allison Knigge, Minneapolis Public Schools
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
Full Transcript
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This episode of Wellness Wednesday returns with an open and heartfelt conversation in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, focusing on the importance of community and connection. Hosts Beth Gustin, Robin Ennis, and Jeff Thompson reflect on how community can support emotional well-being, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide encouragement during life's struggles. Robin shares personal experiences from her doctoral journey as a blind student, while the discussion explores identity, belonging, loneliness, and the value of finding people who truly understand and support you. The episode gently challenges myths around mental health and reminds listeners that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether through friendships, support groups, hobbies, or online spaces, the conversation encourages listeners to start small, stay curious, and seek meaningful connections that nurture mental health and personal growth.
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. They are looking forward to hearing from you!
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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Career Climb is more than a weekend workshopâit's a launchpad for blind and low vision students to explore careers, strengthen independence, and build confidence for the future. Through hands-on activities in self-discovery, budgeting, resumes, LinkedIn, interviewing, networking, and self-advocacy, students learn not just how to find a job, but how to build a life with purpose. What makes Career Climb unique is its focus on process: students develop tools they can return to throughout their lives whenever they face a new opportunity or transition. Parents will appreciate seeing their students grow in confidence and leadership. Teachers will value the practical career-readiness and self-determination skills reinforced throughout the weekend. Students gain peer support, individualized coaching, and a roadmap for turning aspirations into action. From elevator pitches to mock interviews and follow-up coaching, Career Climb plants seeds of ambition, preparation, and possibility for a stronger future.
Related Links:
Penny forward - Penny Forward empowers individuals with vision loss to navigate the complicated landscape of personal finance through education, mentoring, and mutual support. Our commitment extends to every facet of personal finance, encompassing activities related to earning, managing, and growing one's finances.
Jeremy W. Grandstaff on LinkedIn - Senior Learning & Organization Development Strategist
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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Across the country, students who are blind, deafBlind, or low vision are asking big questions about their futureâand in Minnesota, those questions are turning into real opportunities. In this episode of Blind Abilities, we explore how Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) through State Services for the Blind are helping students move from uncertainty to action. Through hands-on experiences like summer programs, outdoor adventures, career exploration, and workplace training, students build independence, confidence, and real-world skills.
From canoeing and snowshoeing to job fairs and mentorship from blind professionals, these experiences go beyond the classroom and into everyday life. Students also gain access to assistive technology and learn the critical skill of self-advocacyâtools that last a lifetime.
This episode offers an inspiring look at what happens when students are given the space, support, and opportunity to explore their potentialâand begin building the future they imagine.
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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Tony Gebhard returns to the Blind Abilities studio to introduce NVDA Coachâan innovative, free add-on designed to change how NVDA is taught and learned around the world.
Built from real classroom experience, NVDA Coach supports both beginners and instructors with structured lessons, guided modules, and practical skill-building. Tony created this tool not just for his own students, but for anyone ready to learn NVDA with confidenceâno matter where they are.
With over 40 lessons organized into clear chapters, NVDA Coach removes the intimidation factor and replaces it with a step-by-step path to success. Teachers are using it as a ready-made curriculum, while students are gaining independence faster than ever.
And this is just the beginningânew updates are on the horizon, promising even more ways to learn, grow, and explore.
Learn more at:
www.TonyGebhard.me/NVDACoach
Contact: [email protected]
Thanks for listening to Blind Abilities!
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We return with another Blind Abilities Musical about that first time you heard the screen speak back to you. How you dug in an learned about accessibility and use it in the workplace. And how the ever changing tech world keeps you on your toes.
After the music ends, Pete, Christina, Lori, and Jeff jump back into the studio for a lively, reflective, and thoughtful conversation about accessible technology and how it has changed their lives. They reflect on the first time they heard JAWS, VoiceOver, or ZoomText Extra speak, and how those early moments opened doors to independence, speed, confidence, and inclusion. The group talks about learning curves, keyboard shortcuts, workplace productivity, iPhone accessibility, adapting to software updates, and the importance of maintaining strong basic skills when technology changes. Along the way, they share memories of older tools, joke about screen readers, sound speed, and emojis, and compare how Macs, Windows PCs, and iPhones fit into daily life. A strong theme throughout the conversation is curiosity: the willingness to explore, problem-solve, and keep learning. The discussion feels warm, personal, and empowering, showing that technology is most powerful when it helps people participate fully and independently.
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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Step into a summer that could change everything. At the Colorado Center for the Blind, the No Limits to Learning program invites blind, deafblind, and low vision students ages 15â21 to live, learn, and grow in a fully immersive experience. You'll stay in real apartments, cook your own meals, travel using public transit, and build independence from morning to night. Days are filled with hands-on training in Braille, technology, orientation and mobility, and independent living skillsâtaught by blind mentors who've been where you are. Beyond the classroom, adventure awaits with rock climbing, whitewater rafting, martial arts, and more. As past student Christopher shares, this program unlocks confidence and proves what's truly possible. You won't just learn skillsâyou'll discover your strength, your community, and your future. If you're ready to challenge expectations and gain real independence, this is your moment.
Find out more about the Youth Programs offered by Colorado Center on the web.
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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What does it take to step beyond comfort and truly build independence? In this episode of Blind Abilities, Louie McGee shares his journey from Minnesota to law school in Chicago, proving that curiosityânot perfectionâis the real key to success. Born with Stargardt's, Louie doesn't just adaptâhe explores. From completing a triathlon and rafting the Grand Canyon to studying abroad in London, he shows how asking questions and taking chances can open doors you didn't even know existed.
For students beginning their academic journey, Louie offers a powerful message: your path isn't about having everything figured outâit's about being curious enough to try. Whether it's learning new technology, navigating a new city, or simply asking for help, every step forward builds confidence.
This conversation is a reminder that independence isn't about doing everything aloneâit's about discovering how to move through the world in your own way.
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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Aira is stepping into a new era of accessibility with hands-free support through Meta smart glasses, and Jenine Stanley joins Jeff Thompson to break it all down. With the latest update to the Aira Explorer app, users can now connect directly to Meta glasses and access visual interpreting services with a simple voice commandâno phone handling required.
This shift brings back the power of wearable access, allowing users to stay fully engaged in their environment while navigating, working, or tackling everyday tasks. Whether you're using a cane, walking with a guide dog, or even working in the shop, Aira now moves with youâseamlessly and efficiently.
From GPS navigation to document assistance and real-time support from trained interpreters, Aira continues to expand what's possible. Add in Access AI and customizable call options, and it's clear: independence just got an upgradeâhands free and ready when you are.
You can find out more about Aira and all their services on the web at Aira.io.
Thanks for listening!
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What if learning English could open the door to independence, education, and meaningful work? In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson sits down with English Language Learning specialist Abbi Mayland from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Abbi shares how she helps students who are blind, DeafBlind, or low vision â and who may not speak Englishâbuild the skills they need to succeed.
Using creative, hands-on teaching methods like real objects, conversation, audio learning, and Braille, Abbi supports students from all over the world as they grow in confidence and communication. Many begin with little or no English, but soon find themselves holding real conversations and navigating daily life with greater independence.
If you or your family member is learning English and facing vision challenges, this episode offers hope, encouragement, and a clear message: language does not have to be a barrierâsuccess is possible.
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
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 [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.
Thanks for listening!
Full Transcript
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What's the difference between self-esteem and self-confidenceâand why does something as simple as a pair of shoes sometimes spark the conversation? In this Wellness Wednesday episode, Beth, Robin, and Jeff explore how the way we present ourselves can shape how we feel on the inside. From compliments and comments to personal style choices, the crew reflects on how outside voices and inner dialogue influence confidence and self-worth. Do we dress for comfort, expression, or approval? And how do we find the balance between listening to feedback and staying true to ourselves? Join the Wellness Wednesday crew as they unpack identity, style, and the journey toward feeling comfortable in your own skin.
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 leave a message for Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093. They are looking forward to hearing from you!
Thanks for listening!
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In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff welcomes Kevin Chao, an early adopter who has taken more than 60 rides in autonomous vehicles across San Francisco and Austin. Kevin shares his firsthand experiences riding in Tesla RoboTaxis, Waymo vehicles, and Amazon's new Zoox autonomous vehicleâbuilt from the ground up with no steering wheel and inward-facing seats. He describes what it's like to request, ride, and interact with these driverless systems while offering feedback that helps improve the experience. From accessibility to independence, Kevin explores what autonomous transportation could mean for blind and low vision travelers as the future of mobility begins arriving today.
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