The most comprehensive resource for Assistive Technology, success Stories, College and Career Pathways and all with a Blindness Perspective.
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Solar Grove Solutions: Increasing Access to Technology for all with affordable, customizable audio players - Meet Allen Decker from Solar Grove Solutions.
25:16
25:16
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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…
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Touch the Power of Knowledge and Information: Storm Interfaces Breaks Down Barriers of Inaccessible Touch Screen Technology through Tactile and Screen Reader Accessible Kiosks - Meet Nicky Shaw.
32:46
32:46
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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 …
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College 101 - Back to School with Connor Kunze: High School, PSEO and College
31:47
31:47
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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…
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Outdoors for All: Inclusive Camping with Wilderness Inquiry
18:25
18:25
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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. Part…
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Wellness Wednesday: Navigating Anxiety and Aging: A Candid Conversation
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17:57
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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 th…
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Wellness Wednesday: How to Cope with Upcoming Election Stress and Do We Want to Unplug the TV for Ever?
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12:35
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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 epis…
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Yoga With Aly - Virtual and Totally Audio Described
4:58
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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 bes…
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Urban Xplorer Cane: A New Era in Mobility with AWarewolf Gear
30:50
30:50
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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 conversati…
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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 e…
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Unleash your Freedom with New AI Features from Freedom Scientific and the Jaws Screen Reader - Meet Jeff Bazer, Regional Director of Sales at Vispero Inc
31:44
31:44
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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 …
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Wellness Wednesday: Challenging "Normal": Embracing Our Unique Differences
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10:33
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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 th…
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Internships are Making a Difference for These Four College Students, Joshua, Qi, Jackson, and Josh, During Their Transition from High School to College and the Workplace
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16:47
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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, desc…
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Wellness Wednesday: Navigating Therapy—Finding the Right Therapist and Knowing When to Seek Help
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19:47
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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 y…
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Unlocking Potential: The Summer Transition Program Tours State Services for the Blind
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11:28
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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…
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Paul Martz: Science fiction author and technology blogger for Applevis is embracing Challenges and Pushing Boundaries. And What about AI?
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45:26
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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…
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Wellness Wednesday: Conflict Resolution – When to Walk Away
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11:23
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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 unp…
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Wellness Wednesday: The Loneliness of Inaccessibility - How Group and Classroom Settings Can Be Inclusive or Leave Us Wanting
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13:25
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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…
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SSB Opportunities: Golf Event for Blind and Visually Impaired Students on June 17
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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 specifica…
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Gina Martin's Journey Toward Founding Diverse Abilities is a Testament to Resilience and Transformation
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26:06
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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 em…
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Wellness Wednesday: Finding Your True Self: Embracing Your Unique Journey
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9:37
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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…
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Peer to Peer with Maddy and Amy: An Introduction to the Peer Ambassadors for Transition Age Students
9:43
9:43
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Full Transcript Maddy and Amy are SSB students conducting peer-to-peer programming for students across the state for instruction on various topics of interest for visually impaired students. They are also available to meet with others one-on-one for peer discussion and will be planning virtual and in-person group activities! Meet Addy and Amy as th…
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The Blind Kitchen: Adaptive Tools, Helpful Strategies, and Specialized Knowledge to Blind and Visually Impaired People - Meet Founder Debra Erickson
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31:55
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Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind abilities Studio to introduce us to and bring us up to date with The Blind Kitchen, the web site, the audio described videos and what to expect in the coming months. With over 90 items on the store shelves, Debra has an adaptive tool for just about anyone. Whether you ne…
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Wellness Wednesday: Redefining Mental Wellness: Media Influence and Workplace Solutions
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12:23
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In this 33rd episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, address societies desensitization to mental wellness. They discuss the pivotal role the media plays in shaping public perception and outline actionable ideas for promoting mental health in the workplace. As part of Wellness Awareness Month, this conversation s…
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You Got the Headphones, we Got the Drama - Story More Has Something for everyone! Dive into Story More with Micah Thomas.
23:07
23:07
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23:07
Join host Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities studio as we dive into the captivating world of audio drama with our special guest, Micah Thomas, the creative force behind Story More. Micah unveils the intricate art of crafting immersive audio experiences, featuring 360-degree soundscapes that plunge listeners straight into the heart of original sto…
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By Popular Demand: Blind Piano Lessons: With nearly 20 years of teaching through distance learning, meet Mark Miller and begin playing today!
18:43
18:43
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Mark Miller has been teaching Blind and Visually Impaired students to play piano for nearly 20 years. Distance learning is nothing new to Mark Miller and his students as he began teaching through just audio phone calls using his ears. Now with Skype and Video calls, Mark has brought his teaching abilities around the world. Through chord patterns an…
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