White Canes Connect

Lisa Bryant and David B. Goldstein

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania presents a podcast that highlights the blind and visually impaired in Pennsylvania and what is important to us.

  1. 1d ago

    Blind Students Talk College: Accessibility, AI & Independence

    In episode 157 of White Canes Connect, the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students takes the lead. PABS President Noor Khraisat, Vice President Leen Khraisat, Secretary Rose West, and Treasurer Dauad Yasar guide students through real-world scenarios they may encounter in college. The conversation begins with an inaccessible pop quiz and what students can do when a professor unexpectedly uses technology that doesn't work with a screen reader. Students emphasize communicating with professors, being proactive about accommodations, and involving disability services when necessary. The discussion then moves to artificial intelligence. Students talk about where AI can help, where it can become an academic integrity problem, and its unique role as an accessibility tool for blind students—for example, describing an inaccessible graphic. The group stresses transparency with professors and the importance of verifying AI-generated information. Other scenarios tackle friends who try to "help" without asking and what happens when you're left alone at a party. The recurring message: communicate what you need, maintain your independence, prepare ahead, and don't be afraid to meet new people. Finally, students share advice about getting involved on campus, joining clubs, building relationships, and finding community both in person and online. PABS provides another place where blind students can connect with people who understand many of the same experiences. Key Podcast Moments The inaccessible pop quiz What happens when a professor announces a quiz on a website your screen reader can't access? Students discuss proactive accommodations, communicating with professors, and working with disability services. Is AI an accessibility tool or academic shortcut? The group explores one of the most interesting questions in the episode: blind students may legitimately use AI to access visual information while simultaneously attending schools with strict AI policies. Communication and academic integrity are critical. "Just ask." When friends grab an arm, move belongings, order food, or otherwise "help" without permission, students explain why simply asking first is usually the best approach. Your friend disappears at the party Students talk independence, transportation, situational awareness, socializing with strangers, and making sure you always have a way home. Get involved One of the strongest pieces of college advice: join organizations, attend activity fairs, meet people, and find communities built around your interests. $1,500 scholarship opportunity The episode closes with PABS and NFB of Pennsylvania opportunities, including the Pennsylvania scholarship and State Convention in Hershey. Scholarship applications are due August 31. Apply at https://www.nfbofpa.org/scholarships/.   Top Takeaways Advocate Before There Is a Problem Accessibility conversations don't have to begin after something goes wrong. Talking with professors early about accommodations and inaccessible technology can prevent problems later. AI Is Complicated for Blind Students For a blind student, AI isn't necessarily just a writing or homework tool. It can provide access to graphics and other visual information. That creates an important distinction between using AI for accessibility and having AI do academic work for you. The students strongly recommend knowing the professor's policy and communicating openly. Help Should Start With a Question Good intentions don't automatically make an action helpful. Asking before grabbing, guiding, moving something, or making a decision for a blind person preserves independence while still allowing someone to offer assistance. Have a Plan B Whether you're dealing with inaccessible coursework or suddenly left alone socially, independence gets easier when you've thought about alternatives ahead of time. College Is More Than Class Joining clubs, meeting students with similar interests, and becoming part of campus life can create friendships and make an unfamiliar campus feel like home. Connect with PABS If you have questions for the PABS board, email them at students@nfbofpa.org. Follow PABS on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pabs_nfb/.   To read more, visit https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/157/.   Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.  Keep Up-to-date with the Affiliate Learn about chapter and division meetings and fundraisers on Federation Focus.  It's available on the affiliate's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa. New episodes drop every Monday. Contact White Canes Connect Email us at WhiteCanesConnect@gmail.com or leave us a voicemail at (267) 338-4495.   Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked as one of the 100 Best Visually Impaired Podcast. Find the show on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast  Visit our website at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/.

  2. Jul 26

    Travel Tips for Any Adventure: Meet Lynn Jensen

    Summer is in full swing and what better time to take a trip! Join Simon Bonenfant in the virtual studio, as he sits down with Lynn Jensen, author of Best Kept Secrets for Travelers with Sight Loss.  Organized into 11 chapters and 6 appendices, topics include: traveling on a variety of transportation methods, packing and unpacking, orienting to a hotel, and much more!  Throughout the conversation, Lynn discusses her sight-loss journey, work as a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist and registered nurse, and previews her upcoming virtual series, Best Kept Secrets for Living with Sight Loss, scheduled to launch in September.  Interested in learning more? Visit Lynn's website at https://www.blindtraveltips.com, where you can purchase the book in several formats, as well as stay up-to-date with Lynn's endeavors.  We hope you have enjoyed this interview. Do you have a travel experience you think we should know about? Send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com, or call us at 267-338-4495. We'd love to hear from you! Do you like what you hear in this episode? Please consider supporting the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Go to https://nfbofpa.org/donate-now to make a donation.

  3. Jun 28

    Rookie Roundup to Banquet: A First-Timer's Guide to NFB National Convention

    In this episode, the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students leads a Convention 101 conversation for anyone preparing to attend the NFB National Convention in Austin. The questions come from students and first-time attendees, while the answers come from leaders who have learned how to navigate the week through experience. Lynn Heitz explains why National Convention is more than a conference. It is where blind people from across the country gather, where resolutions are debated, where the organization's direction is shaped, and where first-timers can see blind people living full, successful lives. David Goldstein shares practical travel and packing tips, including the importance of layers inside cold hotel meeting rooms, comfortable shoes, accessible airport apps, Aira, Be My Eyes, Seeing AI, Apple AirTags, and the convention app. He also reminds attendees that they will not be able to attend everything, so choosing sessions intentionally matters. Harriet Danner talks about the size and pace of National Convention, the value of reading the agenda before arriving, the importance of the presidential address, and the usefulness of finding a convention buddy. She also explains how special-interest groups and divisions can help students and professionals build relationships in their chosen fields.   Key Topics Covered What National Convention is and why it matters Why Rookie Roundup is a must for first-time attendees How resolutions, general sessions, and the Pennsylvania caucus work What to expect from banquet exchange and the national banquet What to pack for Austin and cold hotel meeting rooms How to dress for meetings, exhibits, and banquet Airport travel tips for blind and low-vision travelers Using Aira, Be My Eyes, Seeing AI, Meta Ray-Bans, and Apple AirTags How to use the NFB Convention app and online agenda Planning your schedule without getting overwhelmed Finding a convention buddy or mentor Budgeting for food and daily expenses Using convention for career development and networking How parents can support young blind travelers without holding them back   Suggested Resources for Show Notes National Federation of the Blind Convention information: https://www.nfb.org/convention  Transportation Security Administration traveler information: https://www.tsa.gov  TSA Cares: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares  Austin-Bergstrom International Airport accessibility services: https://www.flyaustin.com  Aira visual interpreting: https://www.aira.io  JW Marriott Austin: https://www.marriott.com    Read more at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/155/             Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.  Keep Up-to-date with the Affiliate Learn about chapter and division meetings and fundraisers on Federation Focus.  It's available on the affiliate's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa. New episodes drop every Monday. Contact White Canes Connect Email us at WhiteCanesConnect@gmail.com or leave us a voicemail at (267) 338-4495.   Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked as one of the 100 Best Visually Impaired Podcast. Find the show on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast  Visit our website at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/.

  4. Jun 8

    It Takes Foresight, Not Eyesight: Rich Crawford's Story

    In this episode of White Canes Connect, David Goldstein welcomes Rich Crawford for a wide-ranging conversation about blindness, independence, work, leadership, and the power of high expectations. Rich became legally blind at age 10 due to retinitis pigmentosa. Rather than lowering expectations, his parents encouraged him to try things, work hard, and figure out alternative ways to get the job done. That mindset carried him from public school to college, from community action work to a 41-year career in financial services. Rich also discusses his longtime involvement with the National Federation of the Blind, including his years in Iowa and South Dakota affiliate leadership. He shares stories about Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, national conventions, state conventions, and the importance of blind people being active in their communities beyond blindness organizations. Listeners will hear powerful reflections on confidence, asking for what you need, using a white cane without shame, mentoring younger blind people, and why losing sight is not nearly as dangerous as losing hope. Key Podcast Moments Rich Crawford explains how he became legally blind at age 10 from retinitis pigmentosa. He shares how his parents raised him with independence instead of fear. Rich talks about attending the school for the blind, returning to public school, and learning to advocate for himself. He describes becoming a Community Action Agency executive director at just 23 years old. Rich explains how a chance encounter while hitchhiking led to a 41-year career as a financial advisor. He discusses taking licensing exams with readers before today's accessible technology existed. Rich reflects on the influence of Dr. Kenneth Jernigan and the National Federation of the Blind. He explains why confidence grows by trying new things and succeeding one step at a time. Rich encourages blind people to be involved in service clubs, churches, and community organizations. He closes by offering himself as a resource for young blind people seeking advice and encouragement.

  5. May 25

    Crafting Confidence One Exercise at a Time with Cane and Able Fitness

    The blind and visually impaired community faces numerous considerations when undertaking a fitness program. From developing proper form to using equipment safely and more in between, Cane and Able Fitness has a solution for all your fitness goals.  Join Simon Bonenfant in the studio as he sits down with Cane and Able Fitness Founder Evan Schwerbrock. Schwerbrock discusses his vision-loss journey, fitness background, coaching model, client testimonials, strongman competitions, and more.    Cane and Able Fitness offers a wide variety of options depending on your needs. With personalized remote coaching, in-person public appearances, and virtual presentations, there's an option for everyone!   To learn more and start your fitness journey today, visit their https://www.caneandablefitness.com .  You can also follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cane-and-Able-Fitness-108864070909694  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caneandablefitness/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@caneandablefitness6999  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cane.and.able.fit    We hope you have enjoyed this interview. Do you have any fitness tips to share? We want to hear from you! Send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com, or call us at 267.338.4495. Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.

    Crafting Confidence One Exercise at a Time with Cane and Able Fitness

  6. Apr 5

    The $20 Accessibility Hack Every Blind Person Should Know

    Freek van Welsenis, founder of Hable, joins the show to share how a simple idea—helping a blind grandfather use a smartphone—grew into a global company creating affordable assistive technology used in over 60 countries. With a background in engineering and a lifelong connection to disability through his family, Freek brings both technical insight and real-world empathy to everything Hable builds. In this episode, we dive into Hable's newest innovation: Speechlabel, a labeling system that combines a free app with physical tags to let you identify anything using audio or text. From leftovers in your fridge to clothes in your closet, this tool solves everyday challenges that AI alone can't. We also talk about the Hable One braille keyboard, the company's mission to keep accessibility affordable, and how a small team is making a global impact. You'll walk away with a clear understanding of how Speechlabel works, why affordability in assistive tech matters, and how small, practical tools can dramatically improve independence. Freek also shares insights into product design, real-world use cases, and what's next for Hable—including tactile solutions that could make everyday environments more accessible. What You'll Learn How Speechlabel lets you identify everyday items using audio notes The difference between NFC and QR-style labels—and when to use each Why affordability is one of the biggest barriers in assistive tech How the Hable One transforms smartphone use with a braille interface Real-world use cases for labeling food, clothing, and household items Guest Links Website: https://iamhable.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hableone  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hable  Facebook: facebook.com/HableOne TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hableone   Read more at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/152/.           NFB National Convention July 3-8 in Austin This year's National Convention is in Austin, Texas, from July 3-8. Learn more about the 2026 NFB National Convention at https://nfb.org/convention. Call 800-627-7468 to book your room. The main hotel is the JW Marriott. The spillover hotel is the Austin Marriott Downtown. Use the room block code, BL1, to ensure you receive the convention room rate. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.  Keep Up-to-date with the Affiliate Learn about chapter and division meetings and fundraisers on Federation Focus.  It's available on the affiliate's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa. New episodes drop every Monday. Contact White Canes Connect Email us at WhiteCanesConnect@gmail.com or leave us a voicemail at (267) 338-4495.

    The $20 Accessibility Hack Every Blind Person Should Know

  7. Mar 9

    Judy's League and the Battle to Save Section 504

    In this episode of White Canes Connect, host David Goldstein speaks with Kaleigh Brendle, founder and president of Judy's League and a recent graduate of Villanova University preparing to begin law school. Kaleigh is a passionate disability rights advocate dedicated to protecting the civil rights of disabled Americans through education, outreach, and grassroots organizing. Kaleigh joins the show to discuss Judy's League, a cross-disability advocacy organization she founded in response to legal challenges threatening Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973—one of the foundational civil rights protections for people with disabilities. The conversation explores the ongoing lawsuit Texas v. Kennedy, why Section 504 matters, and how advocacy groups are working to ensure these protections remain intact. Key Takeaways Kaleigh explains what Section 504 actually requires, why current legal challenges could weaken disability protections nationwide, and how public awareness plays a crucial role in defending civil rights. She also shares how Judy's League is mobilizing advocates across the country through research, social media outreach, and grassroots engagement. Plus, stick around to hear the story behind the National Federation of the Blind song "Who Are We? NFB," which Kaleigh helped write and perform.   What You'll Learn What Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 does and why it matters How the lawsuit Texas v. Kennedy could impact disability rights Why public awareness is critical in defending accessibility protections How Judy's League is organizing a cross-disability advocacy movement The story behind the NFB song "Who Are We? NFB"   Links Mentioned in the Episode Judy's League Website https://www.judysleague.org/ Contact Judy's League https://www.judysleague.org/contact-us/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JudysLeague Instagram https://www.instagram.com/judysleague?igsh=a2xyMHJhZWx4eGNn&utm_source=qr TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@judysleague?_r=1&_t=ZT-94KrcqYS4Pl   Media Coverage USA Today article on the Section 504 lawsuit https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/03/12/texas-lawsuit-students-disabilities-protections/79085182007/   Music Mentioned Listen to "Who Are We? NFB" https://open.spotify.com/album/6uwPmlEjzPBoJyjPacRCeb   Read more at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/151/.           Apply for a $10,000 National Scholarship The National Federation of the Blind is accepting applications for the 2026 NFB Scholarship Program. We offer an array of scholarships to blind students to support their educational and professional goals. In addition to the $10,000 cash award, each recipient receives funding to attend our national convention, opportunities to network with other blind students, and avenues to connect with hundreds of blind professionals. Learn more and apply at https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program. Application deadline is March 31, 2026. NFB National Convention July 3-8 in Austin This year's National Convention is in Austin, Texas, from July 3-8. Learn more about the 2026 NFB National Convention at https://nfb.org/convention. Call 800-627-7468 to book your room. The main hotel is the JW Marriott. The spillover hotel is the Austin Marriott Downtown. Use the room block code, BL1, to ensure you receive the convention room rate. Jernigan Scholarships for National Convention If you have never been to a National Convention, you can apply for a Jernigan Convention Scholarship by going to https://www.nfbofpa.org/jernigan. Good luck! Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.  Keep Up-to-date with the Affiliate Learn about chapter and division meetings and fundraisers on Federation Focus.  It's available on the affiliate's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa. New episodes drop every Monday. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked as one of the 100 Best Visually Impaired Podcast. Find the show on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast  Visit our website at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/. Contact White Canes Connect Email us at WhiteCanesConnect@gmail.com or leave us a voicemail at (267) 338-4495.

    Judy's League and the Battle to Save Section 504

  8. Feb 22

    Raise Your Rackets: Sound of Tennis Comes to Philly!

    For over a decade, blind and visually impaired people throughout New York City have had the opportunity to play the game of tennis. Launched in 2015 and presented by Court 16, Sound of Tennis offers once-per-week sessions, enabling blind and visually impaired people to learn, practice, and play full games of tennis through sound.  Now, in 2026, Sound of Tennis partnered with a Court 16 location in Philadelphia, offering the same opportunity for Philadelphia residents as well! Join Simon Bonenfant, on this inaugural episode of his new series entitled Simon's Studio, as he takes you through all the details.  You'll hear from Maureen Holtz, Community Relations and Events Manager at Court 16, as well as Hildy Morales, an administrative assistant and avid tennis player. Maureen and Hildy share how both Court 16 and Sound of Tennis were founded and have evolved, their unique journeys of involvement in the program, the strong bond of camaraderie amongst players, and how you can become involved here in Philly!  To learn more about Sound of Tennis at https://www.court16foundation.org/sound-of-tennis. Sessions will take place weekly on Monday's from 12 to 1 PM, at Court 16, 1400 n. Howard Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122. To learn more about participating, please direct all inquiries to Leila Mueller by sending an email to leilacolan@gmail.com Have you attended any Sound of Tennis events? We want to hear from you! Give us a call at 267.338.4495, or send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com  Read notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/150.           Apply for a $10,000 National Scholarship The National Federation of the Blind is accepting applications for the 2026 NFB Scholarship Program. We offer an array of scholarships to blind students to support their educational and professional goals. In addition to the $10,000 cash award, each recipient receives funding to attend our national convention, opportunities to network with other blind students, and avenues to connect with hundreds of blind professionals. Learn more and apply at https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program. Application deadline is March 31, 2026. NFB National Convention July 3-8 in Austin This year's National Convention is in Austin, Texas, from July 3-8. Learn more about the 2026 NFB National Convention at https://nfb.org/convention. Call 800-627-7468 to book your room. The main hotel is the JW Marriott. The spillover hotel is the Austin Marriott Downtown. Use the room block code, BL1, to ensure you receive the convention room rate. Jernigan Scholarships for National Convention If you have never been to a National Convention, you can apply for a Jernigan Convention Scholarship by going to https://www.nfbofpa.org/jernigan. Good luck! Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.  Keep Up-to-date with the Affiliate Learn about chapter and division meetings and fundraisers on Federation Focus.  It's available on the affiliate's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa. New episodes drop every Monday. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked as one of the 100 Best Visually Impaired Podcast. Find the show on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast  Visit our website at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/.

    Raise Your Rackets: Sound of Tennis Comes to Philly!
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About

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania presents a podcast that highlights the blind and visually impaired in Pennsylvania and what is important to us.

Information

  • Creator
    Lisa Bryant and David B. Goldstein
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    155
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    White Canes Connect

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