Blind Abilities

Blind Abilities Team

The most comprehensive resource for Assistive Technology, success Stories, College and Career Pathways and all with a Blindness Perspective.

  1. 10 hr ago

    Blind Abilities: shootin' the Breeze: The Stuff That Sticks

    Jeff, Pete, Christina, and Lori gather for a relaxed conversation filled with stories, laughter, and thoughtful reflections. The discussion begins with excitement over the Amadeus Pro beta and the future of audio production on Apple Silicon Macs. From there, each shares memories of mentors and advocates who encouraged independence, informed decision-making, and the attitude of simply doing what needs to be done. The group explores the importance of maintaining connections in both blindness and mainstream communities, appreciating the perspectives each brings. They also talk about everyday accessibility, highlighting simple solutions such as fountains, wind chimes, textured surfaces, and other environmental cues that make life easier. Later, the conversation turns to emerging technology, including smart glasses, Aira, scanning apps, and privacy concerns. Along the way, memories from conventions, podcasting adventures, and a few musical tangents create a fun and engaging conversation among friends. Major Topics in Chronological Order Introductions and weather banter. Amadeus Pro and the new Apple Silicon beta. Accessibility and the longevity of audio production tools. Mentors, advocates, and people who shaped their blindness journey. Attitude, informed choice, and the "just do it" mindset. Balancing blindness communities with mainstream communities. Maintaining friendships with both blind and sighted people. Everyday accessibility and practical low-tech solutions. Using sound and texture as orientation cues around the home. Memories from ACB and NFB conventions. Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses and the future of wearable AI. Aira integration and hands-free access. Scanning apps, privacy, and document reading. Seeing AI improvements and simplified interfaces. Music, iBUG Today, and closing humor. Products and Services Discussed at Length Audio and Podcasting Amadeus Pro HairerSoft Apple Silicon Macs Wearable Technology Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Google AI Glasses (future possibilities) Rumored Apple Glasses Accessibility Services Aira Aira AI Reading and Recognition Apps Voice Dream Scan Seeing AI Communities and Organizations National Federation of the Blind (NFB) American Council of the Blind (ACB) iBUG Today

    50 min
  2. 10 Jun

    Wellness Wednesday: The Quiet Between Doing

    In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff explore the value of slowing down and creating space to simply be. Their conversation wanders through topics ranging from technology, noise, and daily stress to the unique experiences of living with vision loss and the mental energy required to navigate the world. Together, they reflect on the difference between constant doing and intentional being, discussing how quiet moments can provide rest, clarity, and a sense of grounding. They share personal experiences about finding comfort in familiar environments, spending time in nature, listening to birds, walking without distractions, and creating calming spaces at home that encourage relaxation and reflection. The discussion also touches on the importance of relationships, changing priorities as we grow older, and how our understanding of time evolves throughout life. Through humor, thoughtful insights, and honest conversation, the hosts invite listeners to consider what brings them peace, how they spend their time, and what helps them stay grounded in an increasingly busy world.   Join Beth, Robin, and Jeff as they reflect on the importance of creating room for silence, presence, and personal reflection, and discover why sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is simply be. Full Transcript:   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:                   Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com                   Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS                   Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Thanks for listening!

    32 min
  3. 22 May

    More Than a Competition: Minnesota's First Cane Quest

    Minnesota's first Cane Quest brought together students, families, teachers, orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, and volunteers for a day focused on confidence, independence, and real-world travel skills. • Students practiced tactile maps, cardinal directions, obstacle detection, stair travel, street crossings, and locating destinations using white cane techniques. • Activities were designed for different ages, skill levels, and visual abilities, helping students grow through hands-on experiences and peer connections. • Parents attended informational sessions with experts in orientation and mobility and assistive technology, learning how to better support independence at home and school. • Volunteers and instructors emphasized allowing students to lead, encouraging confidence and problem-solving skills. • Paralympian and keynote speaker Max Nelson inspired students with his story of perseverance, independence, and self-confidence. Cane Quest celebrated more than competition—it highlighted mobility, teamwork, community support, and the belief that blind and visually impaired students can achieve extraordinary goals.   - The Minnesota Cane Quest Planning Team Madi Ericksen, BrightWorks/SparkPath Colleen Feller, BrightWorks/SparkPath Jenny Pelletier, State Services for the Blind Joya Musa, Minneapolis Public Schools Allison Knigge, Minneapolis Public Schools   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB Full Transcript

    34 min
  4. 1 May

    Career Climb: Building Confidence, Careers, and Independence for the Future

    Career Climb is more than a weekend workshop—it's a launchpad for blind and low vision students to explore careers, strengthen independence, and build confidence for the future. Through hands-on activities in self-discovery, budgeting, resumes, LinkedIn, interviewing, networking, and self-advocacy, students learn not just how to find a job, but how to build a life with purpose. What makes Career Climb unique is its focus on process: students develop tools they can return to throughout their lives whenever they face a new opportunity or transition. Parents will appreciate seeing their students grow in confidence and leadership. Teachers will value the practical career-readiness and self-determination skills reinforced throughout the weekend. Students gain peer support, individualized coaching, and a roadmap for turning aspirations into action. From elevator pitches to mock interviews and follow-up coaching, Career Climb plants seeds of ambition, preparation, and possibility for a stronger future. Related Links: Penny forward - Penny Forward empowers individuals with vision loss to navigate the complicated landscape of personal finance through education, mentoring, and mutual support. Our commitment extends to every facet of personal finance, encompassing activities related to earning, managing, and growing one's finances.   Jeremy W. Grandstaff on LinkedIn - Senior Learning & Organization Development Strategist   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Thanks for listening!   Full Transcript

    35 min

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The most comprehensive resource for Assistive Technology, success Stories, College and Career Pathways and all with a Blindness Perspective.

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