Episoder

  • 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

  • Mangler du episoder?

    Klikk her for å oppdatere manuelt.

  • 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.

  • Summary
    In this conversation, Kim Wardlow interviews Denny Moyer, CEO of the Insight Skills Center and the Curtis Strong Center, about adapting to vision loss. They discuss the initial steps someone should take when newly diagnosed with a condition that will result in vision loss, such as making contact with a rehabilitation center and joining support groups. They also explore various resources available for individuals with vision loss, including community resources, transportation options, and technology. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication and support from friends and family members. Denny Moyer encourages individuals to reach out to professionals and seek help to maintain independence and a good quality of life.
    Takeaways
    When newly diagnosed with a condition that will result in vision loss, it is important to make contact with a rehabilitation center and join support groups.
    There are various resources available for individuals with vision loss, including community resources, transportation options, and technology.
    Communication and support from friends and family members are crucial for individuals with vision loss.
    Reaching out to professionals and seeking help can help individuals maintain independence and a good quality of life.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:02 Initial Steps for Newly Diagnosed Individuals
    04:43 Resources for Individuals with Vision Loss
    07:28 The Importance of Support and Communication
    11:41 Practical Tips and Coping Strategies
    14:30 Supporting Friends and Family Members
    24:19 Final Thoughts and Messages
    26:28 Contacting Insight Skills Center and Curtis Strong Center
    28:21 Upcoming Activities and Resources
    We're glad you listened to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (720) 712-8856, or you can email us at [email protected]. Have a great week.

  • Summary
    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow continues her conversation with Rebecca Shields about understanding and coping with early stages of vision loss. They discuss the importance of orientation and mobility training for individuals with vision loss, starting from a young age. They also touch on the decision to use a guide dog and the need for proper training. They explore the different training options available for children, adults, and older adults, including schools for the blind and vocational rehabilitation services. They also discuss the role of technology and daily living aids in enhancing the lives of individuals with vision loss.
    Takeaways
    Orientation and mobility training is crucial for individuals with vision loss, starting from a young age.
    Using a guide dog is a personal decision, but it's important to have good cane skills before considering a guide dog.
    Children can receive orientation and mobility training through their school's IEP, while adults can seek training through vocational rehabilitation services.
    Simple daily living aids, such as talking watches and clocks, can make a big difference in the lives of individuals with vision loss.
    Technology, such as smartphones and assistive apps, can also be helpful, but proper training is necessary to make the most of these tools.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    02:07 The Importance of Orientation and Mobility Training
    06:01 Guide Dogs: A Personal Decision
    09:20 Training Options for Children and Adults
    12:28 Simple Daily Living Aids
    15:22 The Role of Technology
    Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life With Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim, please call us at 720-712-8856, or you can email us at [email protected]. Have a fantastic week.

  • Summary
    Rebecca Shields, a professional with personal experience of vision loss, shares insights on adapting to vision loss, signs of vision loss, emotional reactions, and seeking help. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out for support and finding legitimate and qualified services. The conversation also touches on the upcoming topics of orientation and mobility, guide dogs, and technology for daily living aids.
    Takeaways
    Adapting to vision loss involves seeking support and connecting with qualified services.Recognizing signs of vision loss and seeking help early is crucial for maintaining quality of life.Emotional reactions to vision loss vary, and it's important to reach out for support and assistance.Upcoming topics include orientation and mobility, guide dogs, and technology for daily living aids.
    Chapters
    00:00 Adapting to Vision Loss: Understanding the Journey04:18 Recognizing Signs of Vision Loss and Seeking Help10:02 Emotional Reactions to Vision Loss
    Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim or any of our guest, please call us at 720-712-8856 or if you would rather email us you can do so at [email protected] thanks for listening and have a great week.

  • Summary

    In this conversation, Kim Wardlow and Angie Flynn discuss the use of medications, vitamins, supplements, and community support in managing mental health issues. They emphasize the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any medication or supplement. Angie explains the four major categories of medications used for mental health issues: antidepressants, antianxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and anti-psychotics. She also discusses the potential side effects and risks associated with these medications. Angie provides information on various supplements that can be helpful for depression, anxiety, and sleep issues. She highlights the importance of community support, nature therapy, mindfulness, and nutrition in maintaining good mental health. The conversation concludes with a discussion on resources for individuals in crisis and the importance of reaching out for help.

    Takeaways

    Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication or supplement for mental health issues.
    The four major categories of medications used for mental health issues are antidepressants, antianxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and anti-psychotics.
    Different medications have different side effects and risks, and it is important to work with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage.
    There are supplements available for depression, anxiety, and sleep issues, but it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking.
    In addition to medications and supplements, community support, nature therapy, mindfulness, and nutrition play important roles in maintaining good mental health.
    There are resources available for individuals in crisis, including helplines and organizations like NAMI.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Events
    13:12 Exploring Supplements for Depression, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues
    26:04 Resources for Individuals in Crisis: Helplines and Organizations

    Thank you for listening to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions for Kim or any of our upcoming or past guests, please reach out to us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at [email protected]. Have a great week.

  • Summary

    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Charlie Kramer, a life coach and advocate for people with disabilities, about depression and how to navigate life with this mental health condition. They discuss the definition of depression, myths and misconceptions surrounding it, contributing factors, coping mechanisms, breaking the stigma, and supporting loved ones with depression. Charlie emphasizes the importance of accepting and integrating depression as part of one's life, rather than trying to overcome it. He also encourages listeners to seek therapy or support regardless of whether they have a diagnosis, as everyone can benefit from working through their emotions.

    Takeaways

    Depression is a mental health condition that affects a person's ability to regulate their emotions.
    It is important to seek professional help if you are questioning whether you are dealing with depression or just having a rough period.
    Depression can be triggered by biological, psychological, and environmental factors, and it is important to build healthy habits and tools to navigate through challenging periods.
    Breaking the stigma around mental health involves being open about therapy and supporting others in their mental health journeys.
    Depression can be managed and integrated into one's life, and it is important to embrace all aspects of oneself.
    Supporting someone with depression involves listening, asking for their preferences, and providing support at their own pace.

    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding Depression and Its Definition
    05:39 Myths and Misconceptions about Depression
    10:57 Contributing Factors to Depression
    23:35 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health
    26:42 Managing and Integrating Depression into Life
    29:07 Supporting Loved Ones with Depression

    Thank you for listening to this week's episode of NLVL. If you have any questions for our hosts, please reach us at [email protected], or you can call us at (720) 712-8856. Have a great week!

  • Summary

    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow discusses the topic of loneliness with guest Beth Gustin, a bereavement therapist. They explore how loneliness can be experienced in different situations, such as loss of sight, pet loss, and human loss. They also discuss the connection between loneliness and grief, as well as the difference between loneliness and depression. Beth provides tips for overcoming loneliness, including seeking support, exploring new interests, and finding community. They also address the challenges faced by older adults and the importance of in-person connections.

    Guest links: https://transitioningthroughchange.com/

    Takeaways

    Loneliness can be experienced in various situations, such as loss of sight, pet loss, and human loss.
    Loneliness and grief are closely intertwined, and it's important to acknowledge and express grief in order to heal and move forward.
    Overcoming loneliness involves seeking support, exploring new interests, and finding community.
    Anxiety can contribute to loneliness, and it's important to challenge negative thoughts and work on building confidence.
    In-person connections are often more fulfilling than virtual ones, but starting with online communities can be a stepping stone.
    For friends and relatives trying to help someone overcome loneliness, it's important to continue inviting them to activities and be a resource for them.
    Overcoming loneliness takes time and effort, but it is possible to rebuild a sense of community and belonging.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Announcements
    02:20 Guest Introduction
    03:47 Loneliness in Different Situations
    05:02 Listener Question: Coping with Loneliness After Loss
    06:32 The Complexity of Loneliness and Grief
    09:50 Loneliness and Vision Loss
    13:07 Differentiating Loneliness and Depression
    16:18 Virtual vs In-Person Connections
    26:37 Supporting Others in Overcoming Loneliness
    29:13 Final Words and Resources

    Thank you for listeneing to this episode of NLVL. If you have any qiestions please send us an email at [email protected] or call us at 720-712-8856. Thank you and have a wonderful week.

  • Understanding Addiction and Mental Health in the Vision Loss Community

    In this episode of 'Navigating Life with Vision Loss,' hosted by Kim Wardlow, the focus is on mental health, specifically addiction, within the vision loss community. Guest Bill Lundgren, host of the Blindsight podcast and a seasoned counselor, discusses the broad nature of addiction, identifying and addressing various types, and the complexities associated with dual diagnoses, such as depression alongside substance abuse. The conversation delves into how addiction disproportionately affects people with blindness, drawing parallels to its prevalence in the LGBT community. Lundgren emphasizes the necessity of correct intervention techniques, the challenges of enabling behaviors, and the importance of accessible treatment options. Upcoming episodes are teased, aiming to cover additional mental health topics like medication, depression, and loneliness, with an open invitation for listener engagement and questions.

    00:00 Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
    00:30 Exploring Mental Health: Focus on Addiction
    01:02 Understanding Addiction with Expert Insights
    06:41 Identifying and Addressing Addiction
    14:29 Finding the Right Treatment and Support
    24:12 Empowering Advice for Seeking Treatment
    27:04 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Aftersight Announcements

    Thank you for checking out this week's episode of NLVL. If you have any question, please contact us by phone or email. (720) 712-8856 or [email protected]. Have a wonderful week!

  • Summary

    In this episode, Kim Wardlow and Marianne discuss the importance of traveling with vision loss and challenge stereotypes about blind travelers. They emphasize the beauty and enjoyment that can be found in travel, regardless of sight. They also discuss the role of tour guides and the accessibility laws in foreign countries. Marianne shares her favorite travel destinations and experiences swimming with dolphins and stingrays. The episode concludes with tips for traveling with vision loss, including giving oneself time to prepare and unwind before and after a trip.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Announcement
    02:01 The Importance of Traveling with Vision Loss
    03:05 Challenging Stereotypes about Blind Travelers
    04:02 Appreciating the Beauty of Travel
    06:21 Overcoming Fear and Hesitation in Travel
    08:15 The Role of Tour Guides and Accessibility
    10:14 Understanding Accessibility Laws in Foreign Countries
    11:28 Choosing Between Organized Tours and Independent Exploration
    21:45 Favorite Travel Destinations
    23:37 Availability of Sighted Guides in the Caribbean
    26:06 Swimming with Dolphins and Stingrays
    31:18 Final Thoughts and Tips for Traveling with Vision Loss

    Thank you for tuning in to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions, let us know by emailing us at [email protected] or call us at (720) 712-8856. Have a great day!

  • Summary

    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Ted Tahquechi, a blind photographer, travel influencer, disability advocate, and photo educator. They discuss domestic and land travel, accessibility in hotels and other establishments, and Ted's experiences traveling with his guide dog, Fauna. Ted shares tips for blind and visually impaired individuals who want to start traveling, including recommendations for accessible destinations in Colorado. They also talk about Ted's photography work, including his Landscapes of the Body series and his partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts and Redline Contemporary Arts Center.

    Takeaways

    Ted Tahquechi, a blind photographer and travel influencer, shares his experiences and tips for domestic and land travel.
    Accessibility in hotels and other establishments is important for visually impaired travelers, and Ted works to raise awareness and improve accessibility.
    Ted's website, blindtravels.com, provides resources, educational videos, and reviews for blind and visually impaired travelers.
    Ted's photography work includes the Landscapes of the Body series, which explores the human form, and a partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts and Redline Contemporary Arts Center.
    Ted has received a Flight for Sight travel grant to create tactile prints and promote social commentary on blindness and visual impairment.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Overview
    06:53 Improving Accessibility in Hotels and Establishments
    13:40 Tips for Blind and Visually Impaired Travelers
    25:06 Partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation

    Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 720-712-8856, or you can email us at [email protected]. Have an amazing week.

  • Summary

    In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Maryann Migliorelli, a seasoned traveler who shares her experiences and tips for navigating airports with vision loss. They discuss topics such as airport assistance, seating on planes, and traveling with a guide dog. Maryann emphasizes the importance of not letting fear or accessibility challenges prevent individuals from experiencing the joy of travel. She encourages listeners to ask for help, be prepared with necessary documentation, and advocate for their needs. The episode ends with a preview of upcoming episodes, featuring discussions on land travel and the importance of exploring the world.

    Takeaways

    Ask for assistance when navigating airports and be prepared with necessary documentation.
    Choose seating near the front of the plane for easier navigation.
    Pre-board if needed, and don't be afraid to ask for help or decline excessive assistance.
    Advocate for your needs and don't let fear or accessibility challenges prevent you from traveling.
    Upcoming episodes will cover land travel and the importance of exploring the world.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background of Guest
    13:58 Airport Travel: Tips and Tricks
    25:52 Traveling with a Guide Dog
    33:09 Encouragement to Travel and Preview of Upcoming Episodes

    Thank you for listening to Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any more questions we would love to hear them. Call us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at [email protected]