Best LightHouse For The Blind Podcasts (2024)

1
Ep #21: You CAN Find a Career You Love with Lighthouse for the Blind Seattle's LaKenia Garnes 29:18

16d ago29:18

29:18

Are you encountering challenge after challenge in your job search? If so, you need to listen in. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined this week by LaKenia Garnes, the Purchasing Assistant for the Base Supply Center at Lighthouse for the Blind Seattle. She shares how she overcame obstacles and job rejections to finally find a position that she loves and where …

1
Ep #23: Leading Change for the Blind and Visually Impaired with Lee Nasehi, CEO of VisionServe Alliance 36:38

1d ago36:38

36:38

You’re in for an inspiring episode this week as Lee Nasehi, the President and CEO of VisionServe Alliance, joins Dr. Hoby Wedler! The impact of Lee’s long-standing dedication to the blind and visually impaired community cannot be overstated, and it has brought significant changes. Today, Lee shares her journey of becoming a seasoned advocate and ex…

1
Ep #22: The Importance of Self-Belief with NSITE Graduate Yasmin Campbell 35:04

9d ago35:04

35:04

If you're looking for inspiration on your job search, this week's conversation is sure to deliver. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Yasmin Campbell, a graduate of the NSITE program and a champion for self-belief, self-advocacy, and furthering opportunities for the BVI community. Yasmin's plans took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with retinit…

1
Ep #20: Considering a Job in Manufacturing as a BVI? Brandi Hunter Shares What You Need to Know 33:05

23d ago33:05

33:05

In the search for your dream job, hard work and dedication truly do pay off, a truth vividly embodied by this week’s guest, Brandi Hunter. Serving as the Human Resources Staffing Coordinator at Blind Industries & Services of Maryland (BISM), Brandi shares with Dr. Hoby Wedler her inspiring journey to securing a job she is passionate about. Her path…

1
Ep #19: Land Your Dream Job: How Hard Work Paid Off for Thomas Stivers at the Travis Association for the Blind 37:21

30d ago37:21

37:21

Get ready for an inspiring story of tenacity and hard work as Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Thomas Stivers, Systems Administrator for the Travis Association for the Blind at Austin Lighthouse. Ever since high school, Thomas had big dreams of working with computers, but it wasn’t until later in his career that these dreams would become reality. Thoma…

1
Ep #18: How Valley Center for the Blind is Empowering BVI Individuals to Succeed 34:29

1M ago34:29

34:29

Reynaldo Villarreal is the director of workforce development at Valley Center for the Blind (VCB) in Central California, one of NIB’s associated nonprofit agencies. He joins Dr. Hoby Wedler to share his story about blindness and the impactful work he does at VCB. Rey explains the impact a nonprofit like Valley Center for the Blind have on employmen…

1
Ep #17: Scarlet Nishimoto: From 60 Job Application Rejections to a Career Filled with Financial Stability at NIB's CMS Program 25:37

1M ago25:37

25:37

Scarlet Nishimoto endured over 60 job application rejections due to the bias and social stigma that exist around blindness in the hiring world. But her unstoppable and relentless nature, along with her heart-centered mission of helping the BVI community, led her to continue searching. Discover how she has built a meaningful, purposeful, and success…

1
Ep #16: Nina Bektic-Marrero: A Tale of Triumph From Vision Loss to Leading Business Consultant With the Help of National Industries for the Blind 48:07

2M ago48:07

48:07

Explore Nina Bektic-Marrero's remarkable journey from facing the adversity of war and vision loss to becoming a shining example of success in the business world. Nina's story is not just about overcoming obstacles, it's about transforming them into stepping stones towards greatness. Find out how she navigated from a humble beginning as a switchboar…

1
Ep #15: Operation Full Circle: How NIB and the Army Shaped Scott Collins' Career Leap from Trainee to Contract Management Leadership 42:51

2M ago42:51

42:51

A story of perseverance and overcoming obstacles, Scott Collins shares why it's never too late to give yourself the opportunity to succeed. From losing his vision to retinitis pigmentosa to becoming the head of NIB's Contract Management Support (CMS) program, discover his unconventional journey and how he got to be in a position today where he help…

1
Ep #14: Teri Shirk Part 2 - How a Nonprofit Can Have a For-Profit Sister Organization and Still Fulfill Its Mission of Providing Jobs for the Blind 37:08

2M ago37:08

37:08

Discover the innovative ways in which nonprofits can generate income to fund their mission of empowering the blind and visually impaired community. Special guest, Teri Shirk, President & CEO of CABVI joins us again on this episode to share her insights on incorporating for-profit arms to serve nonprofit organizations in this fascinating show. For f…

1
Ep #13: Teri Shirk Part 1 - Discover How NIB Agencies Help the Blind and Visually Impaired Achieve Career Goals Both In-Site and Working Remotely 30:29

2M ago30:29

30:29

Join our host Dr. Hoby Wedler for Part 1 of an enlightening conversation with Teri Shirk, President and CEO of Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI). Teri shares insights on how NIB's associated nonprofit agencies provide fulfilling jobs, financial independence, and a transitional process from social security benefits t…

1
Ep #12: Sharon Giovinazzo Shares Extraordinary Journey From Going Blind to CEO Helping the Blind and Creating Jobs and Myriad Career Opportunities for BVI 22:35

3M ago22:35

22:35

Meet Sharon Giovinazzo as she talks about how National Industries for the Blind (NIB) agencies can help people with vision loss reach their career goals. Find out how you can gain employment, achieve financial freedom, and secure benefits while making a real difference in the blind and visually impaired community. For full transcript and show notes…

1
Ep #11: Sophia McCall’s Journey: From Depression and Blindness to a Thriving Career as an HR Recruiter 25:42

3M ago25:42

25:42

Join our host, Dr. Hoby Wedler, as he sits with Sophia McCall to discover how she learned to live with blindness as an adult due to diabetic retinopathy. Sophia was able to find a path of self-confidence and independence through the support of Lighthouse Central Florida and others in the BVI community. Discover more about her journey, struggles, an…

1
Ep #10: Kyle Johnson Talks About Support, Help, and Advice to Find Meaningful Jobs for People With Vision Loss 24:24

3M ago24:24

24:24

In this episode of the Heard & Empowered podcast by NIB, listen to Kyle Johnson as he discusses the importance of seeking help for blind or visually impaired individuals as a first step toward finding meaningful jobs. Discover career opportunities and available jobs through National Industries for the Blind. Join Kyle and our host Dr. Hoby Wedler a…

1
Ep #9: Inclusion in Action: Dr. Hoby Wedler on Elevating BVI Careers, Mentorship, and Shifting Corporate Mindsets 39:17

3M ago39:17

39:17

This episode is a live recording of Dr. Hoby Wedler introducing the Heard & Empowered Podcast at the National Industries for the Blind 2023 Conference as he led a panel of guests to showcase success stories, provide resources, and champion people who are blind in the workforce. He shared his personal experience of facing discrimination in the job m…

1
Ep #8: Brian Petraits Shares How Being Blind is Not an Impediment to Success and Career Fulfillment in Manufacturing and Warehouse Jobs 28:17

4M ago28:17

28:17

Meet dynamic Brian Petraits, an industrial engineer and Director of Manufacturing at Bosma Enterprises who lost his sight due to retinitis pigmentosa. Listen to his experience on how he proved that being visually impaired and asking for help doesn't have to be a barrier to achieving success or job fulfillment. Learn about adaptive technology at Bos…

1
Ep #7: Lise Pace's Inspiring Path: Navigating Career Opportunities as BVI and Mindset Shifts to Rise from Volunteer to Executive Vice President in 15 Years! 29:49

4M ago29:49

29:49

Lise Pace lost her vision due to Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and she discovered life isn't over when you lose your sight. You just have to find ways to do things differently. Listen to her journey from sight loss to success as Executive VP at Bosma Enterprises. NIB’s Heard & Empowered podcast offers invaluable insights into overcoming challenges, fin…

1
Ep #6: Career Mobility, Skill Training, and Mentorship for the Blind and Visually Impaired with Richard Oliver 23:50

4M ago23:50

23:50

In this episode of the Heard & Empowered podcast, Richard Oliver of Industries of the Blind in North Carolina shares how he has been in every role at his agency—except payroll and president—and has flourished in a supportive environment with mentors and training to enhance and develop skills. You, too, can find meaningful careers with upward mobili…

1
Ep #5: Doug Goist on Shame About His Blindness, Hitting Rock Bottom, and Helping Others Succeed 28:51

4M ago28:51

28:51

Join us as we hear from Doug Goist, Program Manager for Workforce Development at NSITE, as he shares his story of going through the stages of grief after losing his vision due to RP and how he was able to turn it around. Nowadays he helps others succeed in their chosen careers as he trains them on how to navigate blindness successfully. Get inspire…

1
Ep #4: How to Find Your Path and Career Opportunities When You're Losing Your Vision with Rebekah Grieb 29:38

4M ago29:38

29:38

Be inspired by Rebekah Grieb's determination and not allowing her worsening vision stop her from finding career opportunities and personal success. Discover why it’s OK to follow your passion and do things differently when you’re visually impaired, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people that support you. Subscribe and tune in weekly…

1
Ep #3: From the Battleground to the Boardroom: A Career Path Like No Other with Jeff Mittman 21:45

5M ago21:45

21:45

In this week’s episode of Heard & Empowered, you’ll hear an inspirational story of overcoming adversity, and a demonstration of what’s possible. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by President and CEO of Bosma Enterprises, the largest employer of people who are visually impaired in the state of Indiana. Jeff is not only CEO and president of Bosma but also a…

1
Ep #2: How NIB Works and How NSITE Connects the Blind to Job Opportunities with Dr. Jonathan Lucus 20:59

5M ago20:59

20:59

National Industries for the Blind (NIB) is a nonprofit agency whose mission is to enhance the personal and economic independence of blind and visually impaired folks by creating, sustaining, and improving employment opportunities. NIB's talent management enterprise is NSITE. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by the Executive Director of NSITE, Dr. Jonathan…

1
Ep #1: About the Host: Discover Dr. Hoby Wedler’s Story & Jumpstart Your Job Search 14:14

5M ago14:14

14:14

We’re on a mission here on Heard & Empowered to shift perceptions, open hearts and minds, and unlock unparalleled job opportunities for the blind and visually impaired community. Whether you’re blind, visually impaired, or an ally, this podcast is your ultimate resource for building a fulfilling career and enriching life. There’s so much to learn i…

1
Ep #0: Trailer | Find Job Inspiration & Career Opportunities on the Heard & Empowered Podcast by NIB 2:53

5M ago2:53

2:53

Welcome to the Heard & Empowered Podcast, brought to you by National Industries for the Blind, where you're not just a listener, but a catalyst for change. Are you blind or visually impaired (BVI) or know someone who is? Are you considering the professional world but don't know where to start? Or are you just curious about the daily work life of so…

1
Miami Lighthouse United Voices Choir - A Vision for the Holidays 28:07

5M ago28:07

28:07

A holiday album recorded by the Miami Lighthouse United Voices Choir. Happy holidays! Track Listing Introduction White Christmas Hava Nagila Jingle Bells Silent Night O Holy Night O Come, All Ye Faithful Joy to the World Credits General Production: Miami Lighthouse For The Blind Virginia Jacko Carlos Camacho Musical Production: Oman Pedreira Vigari…

1
A Discussion on the World of Ridesharing Through the Lens of Accessibility and Equity for the Blind 29:52

6M ago29:52

29:52

We interview three guests who have a unique viewpoint on making ride-sharing more accessible and inclusive for the blind and visually impaired. Briana Gilmore is a trailblazer in the realm of accessibility and public policy. As the Head of Public Policy, Accessibility & Marginalized Communities at Uber, Briana has been instrumental in shaping the p…

1
A discussion on employment training and work opportunities for the disabled 20:48

9M ago20:48

20:48

We interview three guests whose experiences have informed their viewpoints on training and employing the disabled. Jonathan Villalobos is a visually impaired resident of Kendall, Florida, who lost his eye sight seven years ago and is now gainfully employed after completing life skills and job readiness training at Miami Lighthouse for the Blind. Da…

1
A Heart-to-Heart Discussion with Former Governor of New York David Paterson 30:15

1y ago30:15

30:15

David Paterson was the first legally blind person to be sworn in as governor of a U.S. state and the first African American governor of New York. Follow Miami Lighthouse on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedINBy Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

1
A Discussion with Two Truly Daring Adventurers 45:07

1+ y ago45:07

45:07

Shawn Cheshire is a blind Paralympian who has competed on the national and international levels in tandem cycling, biathlon, rowing, and other sports. Kaiya Armstrong, a visually impaired pilot who recently fulfilled a personal dream by flying a small airplane cross country from Arizona to Washington, D.C. Follow Miami Lighthouse on Facebook, Insta…

1
A Discussion About the Arts at Miami Lighthouse for the Blind 27:19

1+ y ago27:19

27:19

Christine Stiefel, a prominent South Florida philanthropist, art connoisseur and Founder & President of the Wildflower Foundation. Aaron Hill, Senior Group Health & Activities Instructor and arts specialist at Miami Lighthouse. To donate to Miami Lighthouse's Arts Programs visit https://secure.miamilighthouse.org/Donations.asp…

1
A Discussion About Website Accessibility 30:08

1+ y ago30:08

30:08

Lili Crook, Chief Operating Officer of Crook & Crook, a family owned full service marine and fishing tackle retailer located in Miami but also doing business globally through the Crook and Crook website. Robert Fine, a shareholder with the law firm of Greenberg Traurig who specializes in issues involving the Americans with Disabilities Act and Jorg…

1
Episode 10 - Reese 10:56

1+ y ago10:56

10:56

We hear from Reese as she shares her thoughts on virtual learning, typing, jumping on trampolines and narrating herself.By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 9 - Typio 14:02

1+ y ago14:02

14:02

As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, schools were adjusting and strategizing to figure out how to accommodate their students. During a two-week layoff from school, Reese is introduced to Typio, a typing tutor. Reese is enthralled and teaches Courtney a lesson about how she perceives herself.By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 8 - Lighthouse 14:51

1+ y ago14:51

14:51

Family vacations are often filled with memories, adventures and experiences. But sightseeing doesn't draw much interest when you are blind. In an effort to put herself in Reese's shoes, Courtney decides on a trip to a lighthouse that she is going to take in the experience without using her vision.By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 7 - In the Beginning 25:39

1+ y ago25:39

25:39

A recent instance of Reese experiencing eye pain leads to the telling of the story of how it all started. Courtney explains what happened to Reese's eyes, the initial events and emotions the family experienced, and what transpired at the hospital.By Courtney Blum

1
A discussion about Cortical Visual Impairment, or CVI, the Number 1 cause of pediatric visual impairments in the developed world. 23:05

2y ago23:05

23:05

This week's episode features a conversation about cortical visual impairment with Dr. Luxme Hariharan, a pediatric ophthalmologist within the Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Caterina Sastri a parent with a child with CVI and Board Director at Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, and Francesca Crozier-Fitzgerald, Dire…

1
A discussion on advances in technology and the latest wearable devices for the visually impaired 23:20

2y ago23:20

23:20

Gus Alexiou, Diversity and Inclusion Contributor for Forbes Magazine, and John Garcia, Manager of Miami Lighthouse’s Low Vision Solutions Center and LighthouseShop.org . To read Gus Alexiou's Forbes Magazine articles visit: https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/?sh=8bb16355eabb We welcome your questions, comments, and suggestions by emailing CSis…

1
Welcome to Miami Lighthouse for the Blind 32:30

2y ago32:30

32:30

On the first episode of Vision Insights, we introduce you to Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, its mission and two key people instrumental in growing the organization to new heights. Thank you for listening to Vision Insights! If you liked the show, please subscribe and leave a review. You can find out more about the work being down at Miami Lighthou…

1
Welcome to Vision Insights! 1:32

2y ago1:32

1:32

This is Vision Insights, a podcast produced by Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Join us each episode as we examine new developments in health, education and technology that benefit the blind. A stay tuned as we welcome some very special people who teach us everyday that it's possible to see without sight! Thank you for subscrib…

1
Episode 6 - Independency 16:27

3y ago16:27

16:27

As children grow up and mature they want to claim their independence. Reese is no exception. And since it's Reese, there's no stopping her. In this episode, she has moved out of the bedroom she and her brother share and sets off around the neighborhood alone to walk the dog.By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 5 - Blind Hacks 15:10

3y ago15:10

15:10

Being blind necessarily makes some things harder, but with hacks and tricks, hard things can become easier. In this episode, we talk about the different things Courtney and her family have put in place to help Reese navigate daily activities that the sighted take for granted.By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 4 - The Elevator Speech 16:53

3y ago16:53

16:53

Everyone has questions when they see a small child and realize she’s blind. This scenario happens over and over when Reese is out and meets people. But what do you say when your child isn’t yet ready to talk about being blind?By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 3 - In Search of Normal 18:23

3y ago18:23

18:23

Life goes on. School continues. Radical surgery is performed. Will any of Reese’s vision be returned? The family’s life has a new normal — something they try to make as normal as possible.By Courtney Blum

1
Episode 2 - Test after Test 23:14

3y ago23:14

23:14

Reese’s eyes have revolted, and her doctors don’t know what to do to help reattach her unusually detached retinas. No one knows what she can see with her minimal, remaining vision. Courtney talks about what it’s like to suddenly be parents to a blind child with no knowledge or experience or to guide them. Just keeping Reese and her delicate eyes sa…

1
Episode 1 - Into the Dark 16:57

3y ago16:57

16:57

We meet Courtney Blum and her three-year-old daughter Reese, who lost her vision. This episode takes place today, during COVID-19 with Reese’s challenges doing remote learning. School at home when you're blind is a different kind of challenge when you can’t see the screen. Courtney discusses how Reese become blind and what impacts it had on her and…

1
Oral History: Gil Johnson reflects on eight decades of blindness training, advocacy and community

5+ y ago

—

A distinguished longtime board member and pioneer of rehabilitation services at the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired in San Francisco, there are few denizens of our community more respected and knowledgeable than Gil Johnson. Growing up as a confident, free-thinking young blind man and coming to the LightHouse during a pivotal moment …

1
Our Blood Drive was so successful – we’re having two more

6y ago

—

More than 60 gracious donors showed up at the LightHouse headquarters to give blood at our 6th Annual Bay Area Blind Community Blood Drive this month. We collected 56 total units of blood, which helps approximately 168 patients in need. We also welcomed cameras from ABC7 News, who did a terrific little story about the drive which you can check out …

1
A New Gathering Place: EHC’s Redwood Grove Theater

6+ y ago

—

Over the weekend, Enchanted Hills Construction Manager George Wurtzel placed the last screw in the final hand-constructed and carved redwood benches that are the signature seating of Enchanted Hills’ new 120-person Redwood Grove Theater. It’s a project that has come to fruition over the last 10 years through patience, perseverance and unrivaled com…

1
LightHouse Expands to Support East Bay

7+ y ago

—

Photo: The front of the Ed Roberts Campus. With the imminent closure of the Lions Center in Oakland, the LightHouse has stepped up to bring services to those who are blind or have low vision in the East Bay. To do this we’ll be expanding the services we offer at the Ed Roberts Campus in Berkeley. We sent out a press release earlier in the month and…

1
Episode 46 12:40

8y ago12:40

12:40

Episode 46

Podcasts Worth a Listen

LightHouse For The Blind Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide