Episodes
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Jesse Anderson, Assistive Technology Specialist at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota, discusses the latest advancements in assistive technology for high school and college students. He highlights tools like Aira's AccessAI, BeMyAI, JAWS, and smart glasses, emphasizing the importance of learning both mobile and computer-based solutions to improve independence and efficiency. Jesse also explores emerging technologies, such as multi-line Braille displays and AI-powered apps, while stressing the value of early adoption and flexibility in using various tools. His advice encourages students to embrace technology as a way to overcome challenges and succeed in academics, work, and everyday life.
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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.
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In Episode 46 of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore the delicate balance between being alone, not being alone, and the subtle spaces where loneliness might linger—especially during the holiday season. While the holidays often evoke joy and celebration, they can also bring feelings of isolation and introspection. Beth and Robin unpack the differences between solitude and loneliness, offering heartfelt perspectives and practical strategies to help navigate this emotional landscape. This episode serves as a gentle reminder that understanding our emotions can be the first step toward finding peace and meaning, no matter where we find ourselves this holiday season.
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!
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The Tech Abilities Crew jingles back into the Blind Abilities studio—live (well, sort of)! Serina, Cindy, and Jeff dive into Black Friday blues, Cyber Monday madness, and the holiday vibes that keep the packages flowing and spirits glowing. From festive decorations and smart lighting to the latest gadgets like the iMac Mini with the M4 chip, there’s plenty to unwrap! Serina takes flight solo with Meta Glasses and Aira, while the crew shares gratitude, laughs, and a touch of nostalgia (Bell Bottom jeans, anyone?). Join us for tech talk, holiday cheer, and an episode to remember. Thanks for tuning in!
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In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson interviews Leslie Dickson, a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist at the VA, who shares her inspiring journey of resilience and success as a blind individual. Born with coloboma, Leslie reveals how her parents’ steadfast encouragement instilled a can-do attitude that carried her through every stage of her educational journey. From navigating high school with large-print textbooks and assistive tools to becoming the first visually impaired student in her college design program, Leslie reflects on the transformative role educators and mentors played in her achievements.
After earning a master’s degree in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy, Leslie now dedicates her career to empowering veterans through hands-on skills like woodworking, ceramics, and leatherworking. She shares her approach to building confidence and independence, teaching that vision loss is not a limitation but an opportunity for growth.
Join Leslie as she recounts her journey and inspires the next generation of blind and low-vision students to pursue their goals with determination and creativity.
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In the “College 101” webinar hosted by State Services for the Blind of Minnesota, three students, Amy, Arianna, and Maddy, shared their experiences transitioning from high school to college. They discussed the importance of self-advocacy, managing accommodations like extended test times, and utilizing assistive technologies such as Braille displays and Voice Dream Reader. The panelists emphasized building strong technology skills and relationships with professors to access essential resources. They also shared tips on tackling challenges, exploring campus life, and balancing independence. Their advice inspires high school students with visual impairments to prepare for a successful college journey.
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.
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Thanks for Listening.
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In this Blind Abilities episode, Jeff Thompson interviews Jada Johnson, Multiple Systems and Pathways Navigator at State Services for the Blind. Jada shares how she supports students with disabilities transitioning from high school to college and the workplace by fostering independence through skills development, family engagement, and coordinated services. She highlights the value of early planning, self-advocacy, and tailored experiences, like worksite accommodations and benefits planning. Jada’s approach empowers students to navigate barriers and achieve meaningful, fulfilling employment opportunities.
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.
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In Episode 45 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore the complexities of employment as individuals with blindness or low vision. From job interviews to workplace dynamics, they discuss the emotional and social impacts of disclosure and the perceptions it may create. Sharing personal experiences and professional insights, Beth and Robin highlight strategies for navigating challenges and fostering inclusion, offering listeners thoughtful reflections on thriving in diverse workplace environments.
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!
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Patriot Vision Industries has been providing innovative technology solutions to users around the globe for 36 years. In 2022, we highlighted Curtis, along with company President John Palmer, and their just-released Lyriq Assistive Reader, a lightweight powerful scanning product. Join Blind Abilities podcast host Simon Bonenfant as he speaks with Curtis about a new device, called LyriQ AI. This revolutionary device combines all of the features of the previous LyriQ model, with the contextual help of AI.
Have a long receipt with many items? Use the document summary feature to get an overarching glance of the text displayed. Have a product with a bar code? Use AI tools to quickly find detailed information, such as possible use cases for that item. You can also use AI to seamlessly translate printed text between languages. Perhaps one of the greatest features is that the product has handwriting capabilities, allowing for greater access to the printed word!
Curtis also announces the Patriot Voice EZ, a simple to use scan to text reading machine.
Finally, Curtis announces the Multimedia Transmitter Box, complimenting the Patriot Viewpoint, allowing users to access content from their TV directly into their existing viewpoint device.
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Navigating as a blind or visually impaired person can be challenging at times. Glide, a new mobility aid, aims to help you navigate with ease. Using a handle, two wheels, and cameras equipped with Wayfinding technology, Glide works to guide the user around obstacles, provides navigation to a specific route, and much more.
While attending the 2024 National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind in Orlando Florida, Blind Abilities podcast host Simon Bonenfant had the opportunity to try Glide for himself. Back in the virtual studio, he caught up with Amos Miller, Founder and CEO of Glidance, to discuss the evolution and capabilities of the product, the opportunity to pre-order your own Glide, hopes for the future of navigation, and more.
From the Glidance Website: “Glide is a pioneering AI-powered mobility aid designed to help people in the blind and low vision community navigate with confidence, comfort, and ease.
Our Sensible Wayfinding technology autonomously guides, avoids obstacles, stays on a safe path, and helps you get to your destination. We believe that freedom of mobility is a right; not a luxury. That’s why we’re on a mission to break down barriers to independent movement for everyone. Join us!
Interested in obtaining a Glide for yourself when the time comes? You can Click Here for 30% off your Glide pre-order.
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Jeff, Serina, and Cindy reunite in the Blind Abilities Studio, bringing the Tech Abilities podcast back in full force! After a short break, the trio dives headfirst into the latest tech trends and practical insights, starting with Serina’s new Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses—spoiler alert: Jeff has a pair too.
From exploring the powerful Access AI feature in the Aira Explorer app, where users can now adjust response detail and vocabulary level, to Jeff taking note of Serina's makeup hacks using AI, this episode balances serious tech talk with a touch of fun. And with Black Friday just around the corner, the team shares Amazon shopping secrets to make the most of those holiday deals.
Whether you’re here for the tech demos or tips on smart shopping, buckle up and join the ride with Jeff, Serina, and Cindy on Tech Abilities!
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In Episode 44 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, bridge the gap between communities we navigate daily. They dive deep into the art of self-advocacy, exploring how personal experiences can transform feelings of isolation into moments of connection and growth. Join them as they unravel how we can bring our unique worlds into harmony, fostering understanding and belonging one journey at a time.
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!
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In this Blind Abilities episode, CEO Dhaval Patel introduces the innovative Lotus Ring, featured at the Vista Center’s Ignite Accessibility Entrepreneur Pitch Competition.
The Lotus Ring, an accessible infrared-operated home control system, enables users to point and manage appliances, lights, and switches without internet or apps.
With magnetic attachable switch covers, it simplifies home automation, offering portability for owners, renters, and travelers. Available November 2024, the starting kit includes one ring and three switch plates for $349.
You can find out more about the Lotus ring at GetLotus.com.
Join Vista Center for lively events and activities that benefit and educate. Check out the Vista Center's upcoming events.
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Jenine Stanley, Director of Customer Success and Engagement at Aira, joins Jeff Thompson on Blind Abilities to share exciting updates. Aira can now be used with Meta Ray-Ban glasses, available in public beta for all users. This innovation expands Aira’s accessible technology offerings, along with other developments like a custom call feature, navigation-certified visual interpreters, and partnerships with Walmart and Vispero. Learn more and download the Aira Explorer app to access the latest in visual interpreting technology.
Aira on the App Store and on Google Play.
Learn more about visual interpreting at Aira.io.
Aira Tech Corp.
Access to visual information is a human right.
Customer Care
1-800-835-1934
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Curious about how to navigate college life as a blind or low vision student? Anjie Hall, an expert in disability resources, shares essential strategies for setting yourself up for success. From early connections with disability offices to embracing technology and building a strong support network, Anjie’s journey offers a powerful roadmap. Her insights on self-advocacy, resilience, and preparing for the workplace make this episode a must-listen for anyone planning their next big step.
Here is the link to the mentioned podcast episode: Building Career Paths: Insights For Young Adults from SSB's Student Career networking Event.
Full Transcript:
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.
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In Episode 44 of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, dive into the world of affirmations and how they can reshape negative mindsets. They explore the importance of authenticity, setting realistic goals, and pairing affirmations with actionable steps to boost effectiveness. Discover how affirmations, when tailored to your personal journey, can serve as powerful tools for growth and self-improvement. Tune in to see if affirmations are the key to fueling your inner positivity!
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!
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Be My Eyes CEO Mike Buckley joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to reveal an exciting new partnership with Hilton Hotels. Blind and low-vision individuals in North America can now access Hilton’s customer service directly through the Be My Eyes app. Mike shares how this groundbreaking collaboration opens new doors for accessibility and hints at even more innovations on the horizon. Dive into the app today and discover these game-changing features!
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State Services for the Blind of Minnesota (SSB) hosted a Student career networking event for blind and low-vision high school and college students. Students connected with professionals from various industries, gaining insights into career opportunities, overcoming challenges, and building successful paths. A special message from the University of Minnesota’s Disability Resource Director emphasized the importance of accessibility and self-advocacy in higher education. The event encouraged students to network, learn, and explore future career possibilities.
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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In Episode 43 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore a listener’s suggestion on the theme of independence. As they delve into the topic, the concept of interdependence naturally emerges. Through personal stories and professional insights, Beth and Robin reflect on the balance between self-reliance and interconnectedness, offering a thoughtful examination of how both can coexist in our daily lives.
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!
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Woodworking for the Blind has been sharing tips and tricks and mostly "How to Do's " with a blindness perspective for quite some time, and on this months WW4B Chat, WW4B presents Wes from the YouTube channel "Woodworking with Wes".
Wes may not be Blind or Low Vision, however, his YouTube channel works through projects and the description is easy to follow. That is why we want to share this great resource for woodworkers sighted or blind.
Join in as Wes talks about his start in woodworking and how he got going on his Woodworking with WesYouTube Channel.
You can also check out his web site Woodworking with Wes.
You can find out more about Woodworking for the Blind
on the web and join a great group of Blind/Low Vision woodworkers. There are many more podcast episodes from WW4B and a mailing list where woodworkers share, learn and collaborate on ideas, projects and a lot of shop talk.
thanks for listening!
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Full Transcript
In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson speaks with Brady and Nick from the Minnesota Wild Blind Hockey Team. Brady, a player entering his fourth year, shares his journey into blind hockey, starting from his love of regular hockey and joining the Minnesota Wild Blind Hockey team in 2021. He explains how the sport is adapted for visually impaired players, with a steel puck designed to make noise and special rules to enhance accessibility. Brady highlights the supportive community, both on and off the ice, and the opportunities blind hockey provides for personal growth and skill development. Nick, a team manager, offers insights into the management of the team, fundraising efforts, and the various events the team participates in across the country. He encourages parents and potential players to get involved, emphasizing the welcoming and inclusive nature of the sport, regardless of prior experience.
Additionally, the episode begins with an announcement from Maddy, a peer ambassador from State Services for the Blind (SSB), about an upcoming student career networking event. The event, aimed at blind and low-vision students aged 14-24, will provide opportunities to network with professionals and explore career options.
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.
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