48 min
EP019 - Shane Somerville - Macular Degeneration and Living with Disability Real InSight with Myke Ireland
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- Technology
In our latest episode of "Real Insight," we have the pleasure of welcoming Shane Somerville, a revered figure in the AV and events industry and a cornerstone of the InSight team for nearly a decade. Shane's journey through the industry is nothing short of inspiring, having held pivotal roles such as Manager of Managed Services and Director of Client Success at InSight.
His quiet diligence and commitment to excellence have profoundly impacted those around him, especially during his time as Manager of AV at RMIT, where he was instrumental in establishing one of the university's most successful managed service partnerships.
However, Shane's story takes a deeply personal turn as he discusses his decision to step away from full-time employment due to macular degeneration—a challenging condition that drastically alters life's perspective. Throughout the episode, Shane opens up about the struggles and the resilience required to navigate this new reality. His story is a powerful reminder of the abrupt changes life can throw our way and the inner strength it takes to continue moving forward.
This episode is particularly moving as Shane shares how he's adapted his life to continue living fully, despite his diagnosis. He embodies the spirit of overcoming any obstacle, demonstrating that the impact of life’s challenges is ultimately determined by our response and attitude.
Tune in to hear Shane’s compelling tale of perseverance and how he continues to lead a fulfilling life, inspiring all of us to face our challenges head-on. It’s a testament to the human spirit and a profound insight into how, no matter the circumstances, we have the power to shape our outcomes.
Shane would also like to acknowledge the help he received from Vision Australia -- https://www.visionaustralia.org
And also the work of Job Access Australia -- https://www.jobaccess.gov.au/home
0:00 Introduction with Shane Somerville
4:31 Transition to Shane's early career in events industry
7:59 Transition to Shane's role at Staging Connections
12:42 Transition to Shane's career change and consultancy work
15:18 Shane's journey with vision loss and adaptive technology
18:18 Utilizing technology for assistance and support
20:16 Discussion on managing frustrations and mindset
23:41 Reflections on knowing when to transition from work
25:51 Learning to Use a White Cane
27:25 Navigating Public Spaces with Assistance
28:17 Overcoming the Fear of Using Assistance
29:50 Embracing Help and Support
30:23 Discovering Blind Golf
31:30 Exploring Opportunities in Blind Bowls
32:32 Finding Opportunities Amidst Challenges
34:03 Filling Time with New Activities
34:52 Establishing a New Daily Routine
38:09 Embracing Inclusivity and Accessibility
39:22 Sharing Experiences for Consultative Support
42:32 Supporting Colleagues with Disabilities
43:13 Immersing in Travel and Culinary Experiences
45:25 Enjoying Social Interactions and Wine Making
47:06 Embracing Retirement Plans and New Adventures
48:02 Reflecting on Legacy and Impact
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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/insight-systems4/message
In our latest episode of "Real Insight," we have the pleasure of welcoming Shane Somerville, a revered figure in the AV and events industry and a cornerstone of the InSight team for nearly a decade. Shane's journey through the industry is nothing short of inspiring, having held pivotal roles such as Manager of Managed Services and Director of Client Success at InSight.
His quiet diligence and commitment to excellence have profoundly impacted those around him, especially during his time as Manager of AV at RMIT, where he was instrumental in establishing one of the university's most successful managed service partnerships.
However, Shane's story takes a deeply personal turn as he discusses his decision to step away from full-time employment due to macular degeneration—a challenging condition that drastically alters life's perspective. Throughout the episode, Shane opens up about the struggles and the resilience required to navigate this new reality. His story is a powerful reminder of the abrupt changes life can throw our way and the inner strength it takes to continue moving forward.
This episode is particularly moving as Shane shares how he's adapted his life to continue living fully, despite his diagnosis. He embodies the spirit of overcoming any obstacle, demonstrating that the impact of life’s challenges is ultimately determined by our response and attitude.
Tune in to hear Shane’s compelling tale of perseverance and how he continues to lead a fulfilling life, inspiring all of us to face our challenges head-on. It’s a testament to the human spirit and a profound insight into how, no matter the circumstances, we have the power to shape our outcomes.
Shane would also like to acknowledge the help he received from Vision Australia -- https://www.visionaustralia.org
And also the work of Job Access Australia -- https://www.jobaccess.gov.au/home
0:00 Introduction with Shane Somerville
4:31 Transition to Shane's early career in events industry
7:59 Transition to Shane's role at Staging Connections
12:42 Transition to Shane's career change and consultancy work
15:18 Shane's journey with vision loss and adaptive technology
18:18 Utilizing technology for assistance and support
20:16 Discussion on managing frustrations and mindset
23:41 Reflections on knowing when to transition from work
25:51 Learning to Use a White Cane
27:25 Navigating Public Spaces with Assistance
28:17 Overcoming the Fear of Using Assistance
29:50 Embracing Help and Support
30:23 Discovering Blind Golf
31:30 Exploring Opportunities in Blind Bowls
32:32 Finding Opportunities Amidst Challenges
34:03 Filling Time with New Activities
34:52 Establishing a New Daily Routine
38:09 Embracing Inclusivity and Accessibility
39:22 Sharing Experiences for Consultative Support
42:32 Supporting Colleagues with Disabilities
43:13 Immersing in Travel and Culinary Experiences
45:25 Enjoying Social Interactions and Wine Making
47:06 Embracing Retirement Plans and New Adventures
48:02 Reflecting on Legacy and Impact
---
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/insight-systems4/message
48 min