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  • Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Bill Lundgren, host of Blindsight podcast and licensed psychotherapist, to discuss navigating family gatherings during the holiday season. The conversation covers managing family dynamics, setting boundaries, and finding joy in changing traditions while living with vision loss.

    Chapter Markers
    00:30 - Introduction to the holiday series and today’s topic.
    02:29 - Overview of Blindsight podcast and its focus on mental health.
    03:43 - Challenges of family dynamics during the holidays.
    06:08 - Managing family roles and past behavioral patterns.
    09:15 - Preparing for gatherings and setting boundaries.
    13:32 - Coping with changes in loved ones like aging or memory loss.
    17:21 - Handling reactions when attending with vision changes.
    25:49 - Finding joy in new holiday experiences and traditions.
    29:41 - Closing thoughts on flexibility and embracing challenges.

    ? Support Aftersight and Navigating Life with Vision Loss!
    Contact: Call us at (720) 712-8856 or email [email protected].
    Donate: Participate in Colorado Gives Day or schedule your early donation at ColoradoGivesDay.org by searching for Aftersight.
    Your generosity helps keep these resources free and supports programs like virtual book clubs, white canes, and more. Thank you for your support! ?

  • Join host Kim Wardlow and guest Michael Sisneros, Aftersight's Community Outreach Specialist, for a festive episode dedicated to making your holiday decorations both safe and accessible for everyone, including those with low vision. Michael shares practical tips and personal stories on enhancing your holiday décor with tactile, olfactory, and audio elements to make the season memorable and inclusive. Whether it's adding scented pine cones, crafting textured ornaments, or arranging lights for visibility, there are endless ways to ensure a joyful and accessible holiday.
    Michael, who also cares for his father with low vision, discusses how his family maintains traditions while keeping their holiday home accessible. From a motion-activated train around the Christmas tree to scented ornaments that last for years, Michael brings a wealth of ideas to enrich your holiday season safely. Learn about cost-effective décor solutions, organizational tips, and ways to make your home welcoming for all guests with low vision.

    Contact Aftersight:
    Phone: (720) 712-8856
    Email: [email protected]

    Colorado Gives Day Reminder
    Support Aftersight’s mission by donating through Colorado Gives Day and selecting Aftersight as your chosen nonprofit. Early donations are also accepted, with each contribution helping Aftersight receive additional funds through a donation boost.

    Chapter Markers
    00:00 Intro and episode overview
    00:11 Decorating tips and caregiving experience
    05:20 Accessible décor and family traditions
    11:18 Tips on lighting, texture, and sound elements
    17:42 Using color and contrast in holiday décor
    21:16 Safety considerations for low-vision guests
    30:58 Favorite holiday memory and closing remarks

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  • In this holiday episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes guest Ted Tahquechi to discuss accessible travel tips for navigating the busy holiday season. Ted shares valuable advice on managing challenges for travelers with low vision or blindness, covering everything from navigating crowded airports to using technology for luggage tracking and communicating effectively with staff. With practical tips and thoughtful insights, this episode aims to help listeners travel with confidence and ease during the holidays.

    Contact Information:
    Guest Contact: Ted Tahquechi’s websites:
    tahquechi.com - for his art and photography.
    blindtravels.com - for accessible travel insights.

    Aftersight Contact:
    Website: aftersight.org
    Email: [email protected]
    Phone: (720) 712-8856

    Support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day:coloradogives.org - Search for “Aftersight” to donate and support podcasts like Navigating Life with Vision Loss.
    Next Episode Preview: Join us next week for an episode on "Holiday Decor with our special guest Michael Sisneros.

    Episode Highlights and Chapter Markers:
    Introduction and Holiday Travel Overview – 00:23
    Meet Ted Tahquechi – 01:12
    Travel Tips for Navigating Busy Spaces – 03:10
    Using Technology for Stress-Free Travel – 05:01
    Traveling with a Guide Dog – 09:25
    Planning for Delays and Layovers – 12:48
    Arrival and Navigating Unfamiliar Destinations – 16:00
    Booking Accessible Accommodations – 18:16
    Common Misconceptions About Accessible Travel – 19:46
    Improvements in Accessible Travel Services – 21:11
    Finding Community and Resources for Accessible Travel – 26:42
    Embracing the Joy of Holiday Travel – 29:40

  • Join Kim Wardlow, your host, along with the Aftersight team in the first episode of our 8-week holiday series, "Home for the Holidays." As we kick off the season, the team shares their unique holiday traditions, favorite songs and movies, and the cherished memories that bring warmth to the season. From nostalgic ornaments to the art of making tamales, you'll hear stories that highlight the diversity of holiday customs and the ways we each celebrate. This episode invites listeners to connect and share their own traditions with us.

    Contact Information:
    Email: [email protected]
    Phone: (720) 712-8856 (Aftersight)
    We’d love to hear your unique holiday traditions, or if you have questions for our hosts and guests throughout the holiday series, please reach out!

    Chapter Markers:
    00:09 – Opening and Introduction to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
    00:26 – Kim Wardlow introduces the holiday series and topic overview
    01:00 – Team introductions and favorite holiday songs and movies
    08:00 – Discussions on family holiday traditions and festive foods
    18:52 – Personal stories of memorable holiday meals and customs
    30:12 – Cultural holiday celebrations and unique family practices
    35:56 – Christmas tree traditions and decorating fun
    41:00 – Closing remarks and next week’s episode teaser on family gatherings

    Colorado Gives Day Information:
    As part of the holiday season, please consider participating in Colorado Gives Day by donating to Aftersight. Simply visit coloradogivesday.org and search for "Aftersight" to support our mission. Your donation will help us continue to create meaningful content and support the low-vision community.

    Join us next week with guest Ted Tahquechi As we dive into travel and understanding that travel, as someone who is blind, can be quite difficult. But don't worry, we'll steer you in the right way.

    Happy Holidays from all of us at Aftersight, and thank you for being part of our community!

  • In this final episode of our emergency preparedness series, Navigating Life with Vision Loss host Kim Wardlow speaks with Monika Weber, Boulder County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, and Ryan Airey from the Office of Recovery and Resiliency. They cover essential steps for recovery post-evacuation and sheltering in place. The discussion offers practical tips for preparing go-bags, understanding your insurance, and accessing shelters, ensuring everyone, especially those with disabilities, has the resources they need to navigate emergencies confidently.
    Aftersight Contact Information
    Email: [email protected]
    Phone: (720) 712-8856
    Boulder County Disaster Hotline: 303-441-1000
    Help Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day by donating at Colorado Gives Day.
    Stay tuned as we kick off our holiday series with topics from family traditions to travel and mental health. Thank you for joining us in preparing for a safer tomorrow!
    Introduction and Recap of Preparedness Series — 00:30 - 01:50
    Meet Ryan Airey and His Role in Recovery — 01:54 - 02:40
    Evacuation Shelters and Accessibility — 03:14 - 06:30
    Service Animals and Pets in Shelters — 08:04 - 09:50
    Sheltering in Place Preparations — 10:11 - 12:30
    Adapting Homes for Shelter-in-Place Scenarios — 12:37 - 15:00
    Planning for Delayed Emergency Response — 16:13 - 17:35
    Insurance Preparedness — 20:27 - 23:58
    FEMA's Role in Response and Recovery — 24:30 - 26:54
    Navigating Disaster Recovery Centers — 28:06 - 29:58
    Final Tips for Disaster Preparation — 33:53 - 35:40
    Conclusion and Upcoming Holiday Series — 36:50 - End

  • In this conversation, Kim Wardlow and Monika Weber discuss the importance of emergency preparedness, focusing on evacuation planning, transportation options, and the need for a support system. They emphasize the significance of pre-planning for evacuations, especially in areas prone to wildfires and other disasters. The discussion also covers the importance of preparing for cold weather emergencies and the need for families to have clear communication and plans in place. Additionally, they touch on post-evacuation recovery and the resources available for those affected by disasters.
    Takeaways
    Evacuation planning involves knowing transportation options.
    Public transportation may not operate during emergencies.
    Building a support system with neighbors is essential.
    Practice evacuation plans with pets to ensure safety.
    Prepare for cold weather emergencies with adequate supplies.
    Create a list of essential items to take during evacuation.
    Communication is crucial during evacuation situations.
    Consider alternative transportation methods if needed.
    Know your evacuation routes ahead of time.
    Post-evacuation recovery can be a lengthy process.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
    00:56 Planning for Evacuation
    03:57 Transportation and Support Systems
    07:14 Evacuation Planning for Families and Pets
    14:06 Preparing for Cold Weather Emergencies
    29:03 Post-Evacuation Considerations

  • In this episode, Kim Wardlow and Monika Weber discuss the critical topic of emergency preparedness. They explore the importance of being prepared for various disasters, the role of community support, and the necessity of understanding alert systems. Monika shares her journey into emergency management and highlights common hazards faced in the Boulder area, emphasizing the need for personal preparedness and actionable steps individuals can take to ensure their safety and that of their community.
    Takeaways
    Emergency preparedness can seem overwhelming, but is essential.
    Community support is crucial during emergencies.
    Understanding local alert systems can save lives.
    Assessing personal risks helps in creating effective plans.
    Having a backup plan is vital for safety.
    Preparedness should be a communal effort.
    Sign up for alerts to stay informed during emergencies.
    Take small, actionable steps towards preparedness.
    It's important to know your resources and support systems.
    Every step taken towards preparedness is a step in the right direction.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
    02:00 Monika Weber's Journey into Emergency Management
    03:27 Common Disasters and Preparedness Strategies
    06:08 The Importance of Community Support in Emergencies
    07:14 Understanding Alert Systems
    21:22 Actionable Steps for Personal Preparedness

  • Episode Summary:
    In this episode of *Navigating Life with Vision Loss*, host Kim Wardlow and accessibility advocate Liz Bottner focus on how you can stay prepared during emergencies in public spaces. Liz shares practical tips for you, like using Aira, Be My Eyes, and local emergency alerts to stay informed and navigate unfamiliar situations. She also shares personal experiences, offering insights on how you can stay calm and flexible when things get stressful.
    Share your own emergency tips and tune in for more helpful advice on staying prepared this month! [email protected] or call us at (720)712-8856
    Takeaways
    Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
    Public spaces can present unique challenges during emergencies.
    Technology can aid in receiving emergency alerts and navigating unfamiliar areas.
    Asking for help is vital in emergency situations.
    Advocacy is necessary for improving accessibility in emergency preparedness.
    Real-life experiences can inform better practices for emergency situations.
    Flexibility and grace are important during stressful emergencies.
    Ride share services must be held accountable for service animal policies.
    Community involvement can enhance emergency preparedness efforts.
    Regularly familiarize yourself with emergency exits and routes in unfamiliar places.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
    01:31 Accessibility Challenges in Public Spaces
    05:30 Navigating Emergencies with Low Vision
    07:01 Real-Life Emergency Experiences
    11:11 The Importance of Asking for Help
    17:06 Dealing with Ride Share Issues
    25:01 Advocacy for Emergency Preparedness
    30:05 Utilizing Technology for Safety
    34:13 Final Thoughts on Emergency Preparedness

  • You know you have questions for us so why not ask them Give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at [email protected]. In this conversation...
    Kim Wardlow and Liz Bottner discuss the critical aspects of emergency preparedness, particularly for individuals with low vision or disabilities. They emphasize the importance of having a well-organized emergency kit, the need for a support network, and strategies for interacting with emergency responders. The discussion also highlights the necessity of flexibility in planning and the importance of regularly reviewing and updating emergency supplies.
    Takeaways
    Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
    Being prepared is an ongoing process, not a one-time task.
    Having a go bag with essential items is vital for emergencies.
    Regularly check and update your emergency supplies.
    Establish a support network for emergencies.
    Communicate your needs to emergency responders in advance.
    Flexibility is key in emergency situations.
    Include items for pets in your emergency kit.
    Utilize accessible formats for important documents.
    Give yourself grace and be open to the unexpected in emergencies.
    Chapters
    00:00 The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
    06:40 Home Organization for Emergencies
    14:44 Essential Items for Your Emergency Bag
    19:39 Building a Support Network
    23:15 Interacting with Emergency Responders
    26:48 Flexibility in Emergency Planning

  • We know you have questions. We have answers. Give us a call at (720) 712-8856
    In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow and fashion expert Trisha Waechtor discuss the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and empowerment for women in the blind and low vision community. They explore how clothing choices can influence confidence, the significance of building a versatile wardrobe, and essential grooming and skincare tips. The conversation also covers makeup application techniques and encourages listeners to engage in fashion discussions to enhance their personal style.
    Takeaways
    Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression.
    Clothing choices significantly impact confidence levels.
    Building a versatile wardrobe starts with a base color.
    Comfort in clothing is essential for confidence.
    Investing in a good bra can enhance overall appearance.
    Hygiene practices contribute to feeling good about oneself.
    Simple skincare routines can be effective and inexpensive.
    Makeup application techniques can enhance natural beauty.
    Engaging in fashion conversations can broaden style options.
    Everyone can explore and express their unique fashion sense.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Fashion and Vision Loss
    01:31 The Role of Fashion in Self-Expression
    11:48 Building a Versatile Wardrobe
    20:45 Grooming and Skincare Essentials
    28:15 Makeup Tips for Confidence
    45:26 Encouragement for Fashion Exploration

  • Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you have questions for Kim or any of our guests, give us a call at (720) 712-8856. In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss...
    ...host Kim Wardlow and guest Tricia Waechter discuss the importance of men's fashion and grooming. They explore how dressing well can boost confidence, the significance of fit in clothing, and practical grooming tips for men, especially those with vision loss. The conversation emphasizes the psychological benefits of looking sharp and provides actionable advice on building a versatile wardrobe, maintaining personal hygiene, and expressing individuality through style.
    Takeaways
    Dressing sharp builds confidence for men.
    Fit is really important in men's fashion.
    Invest in a dark charcoal suit for versatility.
    Make your life simple with color choices.
    Prepare your outfit the night before to reduce stress.
    Cleanliness is key for grooming routines.
    Use an electric razor for easy shaving.
    Regular haircuts keep you looking sharp and tidy.
    Shoe care is essential for a polished look.
    Express yourself through your hairstyle and clothing choices.
    Chapters
    00:00 Navigating Men's Fashion and Grooming
    16:10 Grooming Essentials for Men
    24:24 Expressing Yourself Through Style

  • Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions for Kim or any of our guests, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at [email protected]. In today's episode, Tricia Waechter, founder of Blind Girl Designs, shares her journey from a career in the fashion industry to creating a fashion brand for individuals who are blind or low vision. She emphasizes the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and the need for accessible and stylish clothing options. Tricia discusses how Blind Girl Designs incorporates tactile elements and easy-to-wear features in their designs, such as no buttons or zippers and the inclusion of pockets. She also highlights the significance of including children in accessible fashion and the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in what you wear. Tricia shares practical tips for selecting and fitting clothing, including asking trusted friends for feedback and engaging with salespeople. She also discusses her future goals for Blind Girl Designs, such as expanding their product line and making garments more accessible for individuals who are totally blind.
    Takeaways
    Fashion is a form of self-expression and remains important for individuals who are blind or low vision.
    Blind Girl Designs incorporates tactile elements and easy-to-wear features in their designs to make fashion accessible and stylish.
    Including children in accessible fashion is important for their self-esteem and sense of belonging.
    Feeling confident and comfortable in what you wear is crucial, regardless of vision loss.
    Practical tips for selecting and fitting clothing include asking trusted friends for feedback and engaging with salespeople.
    Future goals for Blind Girl Designs include expanding their product line and making garments more accessible for individuals who are totally blind.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    00:31 Fashion Confidence, Navigating Style and Blindness
    02:21 Tricia's Background and Journey to Blind Girl Designs
    09:48 How Blind Girl Designs Caters to Individuals Who Are Blind or Low Vision
    14:47 Including Children in Accessible Fashion
    16:49 Feeling Confident and Comfortable in What You Wear
    22:25 Practical Tips for Selecting and Fitting Clothing
    30:25 Future Goals for Blind Girl Designs
    33:13 Conclusion

  • Summary
    In this episode, Kim Wardlow interviews Kim Owens, a mother of a blind child and an advocate for parents of blind children. They discuss Kim's journey with her son's vision loss, the challenges they faced in the education system, and the importance of advocacy and acceptance. Kim shares her experiences with navigating the public school system, finding support and resources, and encouraging her son to pursue his passions. They also touch on the topic of sports and the importance of inclusion and accessibility. Kim is currently writing a book about her journey and offers valuable insights and tips for parents in similar situations.
    Takeaways
    Acceptance is key in the journey of parenting a blind child. Educating oneself about the child's diagnosis, prognosis, and available tools is crucial for acceptance.
    Building a community and connecting with other parents of blind children is essential for support and guidance.
    Advocacy is necessary in the education system to ensure that blind children receive the accommodations and services they need.
    Involving the child in conversations about their needs and teaching them self-advocacy skills empowers them to navigate their own education and future.
    Encouraging blind children to pursue their passions and participate in sports and extracurricular activities promotes independence and self-confidence.
    Writing a book about one's journey can be a helpful resource for other parents going through similar experiences.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Shine Festival Recap
    02:27 Introducing Kim Owens and Her Journey with Vision Loss
    04:21 Impact of Vision Loss on Kim's Son and Family
    06:14 Diagnosis and Challenges in Understanding the Condition
    08:06 Finding Support and Acceptance in the Blind Community
    09:28 Navigating the Education System as a Parent of a Blind Child
    10:26 Encouraging Independence and Pursuit of Passions
    12:22 Importance of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
    14:13 Overcoming Fear and Allowing Children to Live Fully
    15:56 Empowering Blind Children Through Inclusion and Accessibility
    18:15 Supportive Community and Mentors in the Journey
    20:06 Being an Advocate for Blind Children in Schools and Sports
    22:01 Importance of Self-Advocacy and Involving the Child
    24:30 Parenting Challenges and Resources for Support
    26:56 Writing a Book on Navigating Blindness
    29:48 Addressing Access Issues in Rideshare Services
    30:47 Takeaways and Conclusion

  • Summary
    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow continues her conversation with Melissa Cermak from MSU Denver about the process for students with vision loss as they transition into college. They discuss the importance of proactive communication with the accessibility office, the accommodation eligibility appointment, and the need for documentation. They also explore the various tools and technologies available to students with vision loss, such as screen readers, magnification, and braille. Melissa emphasizes the importance of building a support network on campus, including professors, peers, and campus resources. They also discuss the opportunities for involvement in clubs, organizations, and student employment.
    If you have a question for any of our upcoming guests, let us know by sending us your question to (720) 712-8856
    Takeaways
    Proactive communication with the accessibility office is crucial for students with vision loss as they transition into college.
    The accommodation eligibility appointment is an opportunity for students to discuss their needs and determine the appropriate accommodations.
    Students with vision loss can utilize tools and technologies such as screen readers, magnification, and braille to access content.
    Building a support network on campus, including professors, peers, and campus resources, is important for success in college.
    Involvement in clubs, organizations, and student employment can provide additional opportunities for connection and growth.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Recap
    02:05 Working with the Accessibility Office
    06:14 Tools and Technologies for Access
    17:12 Building a Support Network
    21:24 Exploring Opportunities on Campus
    26:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

  • Summary
    In this conversation, Kim Wardlow interviews Melissa Cermak from the Access Center at Metropolitan State University Denver. They discuss the services provided by the Access Center for students with disabilities, with a focus on students who are blind or have low vision. They also talk about the challenges students face when transitioning from high school to college and the importance of self-advocacy. Melissa provides practical advice for students and parents, including early planning and exploring college resources.
    Takeaways
    The Access Center at Metropolitan State University Denver provides academic accommodations and technology support for students with disabilities.
    Students who are blind or have low vision may require additional accommodations, such as accessible course materials and tactile images.
    Transitioning from high school to college can be challenging, and students need to develop self-advocacy skills and communicate their needs to faculty and staff.
    Early planning and exploring college resources, such as open houses and informational sessions, can help students make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Overview
    03:00 Supporting Students with Disabilities in College
    05:12 Challenges and Accommodations for Students who are Blind or Have Low Vision
    09:04 Transitioning from High School to College: The Importance of Self-Advocacy
    16:25 Practical Tips for Students and Parents: Early Planning and Exploring College Resources

  • Summary
    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow discusses the topic of education and preparing for school with Cindy Price, an educator with extensive experience in K-12 teaching and administration. They cover the challenges faced by students at the start of the school year, such as finding classrooms, lockers, and navigating schedules. They also discuss the importance of early identification of vision issues and brain processing issues that may affect learning. They emphasize the need for clear communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff to support students' needs. They provide tips for parents on advocating for their child and suggest resources for further support.
    Takeaways
    The start of the school year can be challenging for students, especially those with vision impairments. They may struggle with finding classrooms, lockers, and navigating schedules.
    Early identification of vision issues and brain processing issues is crucial for providing appropriate support to students.
    Clear communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff are essential for addressing students' needs.
    Parents can advocate for their child by actively participating in IEP meetings, requesting re-evaluations, and maintaining open lines of communication with teachers.
    There are resources available for teachers to receive training and support in better serving students with vision impairments.
    Establishing a structured homework routine and providing a conducive learning environment at home can help students succeed academically.
    Cross-body exercises, such as doing a figure eight with both arms, can strengthen brain connections and improve learning abilities.
    Parents can reach out to state disability websites and organizations for additional resources and support.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Overview
    04:34 Challenges Faced by Students at the Start of the School Year
    07:02 Preparing Students for School: Communication and Preparation
    11:27 Identifying and Addressing Vision and Brain Processing Issues
    17:13 Importance of Communication and Collaboration
    20:17 Advocating for Students' Needs
    22:27 Creating a Conducive Learning Environment at Home
    24:30 Strengthening Brain Connections through Cross-Body Exercises
    26:27 Resources and Support for Teachers
    28:25 Tips for Advocating for Your Child's Needs
    31:11 Closing Thoughts and Thanks
    Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating life with vision loss. If you have any questions for an upcoming guest, let us know. (720) 712-8856, or you can email us at [email protected].

  • Summary
    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Ethan Johnson, a co-host of Game Changers and a skilled player in Beatball. They discuss adaptive sports and the benefits they provide for individuals with vision loss. Ethan shares his personal story of losing his vision and how adaptive sports have played a therapeutic role in his life. They also talk about the importance of advocacy and finding accessible sports facilities. The conversation concludes with a discussion about inclusive social activities and the importance of communication and inclusivity.
    Takeaways
    Adaptive sports provide physical, mental, and social benefits for individuals with vision loss.
    Advocacy is important in finding accessible sports facilities and equipment.
    Inclusive social activities can be adapted to accommodate individuals with different levels of vision loss.
    Communication and inclusivity are key in making sports and social activities accessible for everyone.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Overview of Accessible Activities
    05:37 Ethan's Personal Story and Journey with Vision Loss
    11:10 Benefits of Adaptive Sports
    15:22 Finding Adaptive Sports and Facilities
    17:12 Inclusive Social Activities
    22:35 Advocating for Accessibility in Sports Facilities
    25:55 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
    Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim or any of our other host, please email us at [email protected] or we can give us a phone call at 720-712-8856 thanks and have a great week!

  • Summary
    Shawn Satterfield, the founder of Shine Music Festival, discusses the importance of creating fully accessible music festivals. She explains that while many events meet the minimal requirements for accessibility, they often only consider physical mobility and overlook other disabilities. Shawn shares her personal experience of feeling excluded from ADA sections at concerts and highlights the need for a better approach to accessibility. She emphasizes the importance of creating experiences that are inclusive for individuals with various disabilities, including visual, hearing, and neurodiverse impairments. Shawn also discusses the initiatives and technologies implemented at Shine Music Festival to enhance accessibility, such as sensory zones, silent disco headphones, closed caption glasses, and braille on concert t-shirts. She encourages other event organizers to think inclusively and involve individuals with disabilities in the planning process. Shawn concludes by expressing her hope that Shine Music Festival serves as a testing ground for new technologies and inspires other events to prioritize accessibility.
    Takeaways
    Many music festivals only meet the minimal requirements for accessibility, focusing primarily on physical mobility and neglecting other disabilities.
    Creating fully accessible music festivals requires considering the needs of individuals with visual, hearing, and neurodiverse impairments.
    Initiatives such as sensory zones, silent disco headphones, closed caption glasses, and braille on concert t-shirts can enhance accessibility at music festivals.
    Involving individuals with disabilities in the planning process and seeking their feedback is crucial for creating inclusive experiences.
    Shine Music Festival serves as a model for other events to prioritize accessibility and inspire the use of new technologies.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Excitement
    02:31 The Need for an Accessible Music Festival
    08:40 Addressing Different Accessibility Needs
    14:13 Incorporating Accessibility at Shine Music Festival
    24:38 Ticket Information and Volunteer Opportunities
    25:08 Barriers to Accessibility in the Music Industry
    31:29 The Importance of Trying and Seeking Feedback
    35:17 The Role of Volunteers in Making Events Accessible
    37:39 Final Thoughts and Call for Feedback
    Thank you for checking out NLVL. If you have questions, call us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at [email protected]. Have a great week and we'll see you on the hike!

  • Summary
    In this episode, Penn Street, the outreach and development coordinator at Navigating Life with Vision Loss, joins host Kim Wardlow to discuss exploring accessibility in the outdoors. Penn shares her love for outdoor activities such as skiing, paddleboarding, camping, and hiking. She emphasizes the importance of having a buddy and using communication tools like Bluetooth headsets or tethers to make outdoor activities accessible. Penn also talks about the Aftersight Audio Trekker's hike and the benefits of exercise and being in nature. The episode concludes with a discussion about the Independence Pass Braille Trail and the upcoming Shine Music Festival.
    Takeaways
    Outdoor activities can be made accessible with the right tools and support.
    Having a buddy and using communication tools like Bluetooth headsets or tethers can enhance the outdoor experience for individuals with vision loss.
    Exercise and being in nature have numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits.
    The Independence Pass Braille Trail and the Shine Music Festival are inclusive and accessible events worth exploring.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Overview
    02:24 Skiing, Paddleboarding, Camping, and Hiking
    08:49 Making Outdoor Activities Accessible
    25:17 The Aftersight Audio Trekker's Hike
    31:13 The Independence Pass Braille Trail
    35:20 The Shine Music Festival
    Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions, please visit us at aftersight.org and email us at [email protected]. You can also reach us by phone at 720-712-8856. Don't forget to register for the audio trackers hike at www.aftersight.org hike.