Navigating Life with Vision Loss

Aftersight
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Navigating Life with Vision Loss

"Navigating Life with Vision Loss" is an AINC original podcast. In this weekly podcast, we answer your questions on a variety of topics surrounding vision loss. Need to know what to do in standing up for yourself? Wondering how to find a counselor or therapist? Do you need to know how to fill out patient forms in a crowded doctor's office? This show is for you. We're giving a voice to the challenges faced by people with blindness or vision loss. We're here as a resource for you, your family, and your friends. This service is made possible by generous donations. Consider supporting us at www.aftersight.org to help keep these resources free. Aftersight also provides free white canes, support groups, and more, all thanks to contributions from our community.

  1. 6D AGO

    S104: Blinded by the Write: Tackling Jobs, Jaws, and Jock Talk with Dominic Petrillo

    In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow is joined by Dominick Petrillo, a blind sports writer and advocate who has contributed to Sports Illustrated, The Athletic, Rotoballer, and covers the Philadelphia Eagles. Dominick shares his journey of breaking into the competitive world of sports writing, the barriers he has faced as a blind journalist, and how he continues to advocate for accessibility in the workplace. This episode explores employment challenges for blind professionals, strategies for self-advocacy, accessibility in digital spaces, and tips for jobseekers with vision loss. Whether you're entering the workforce or advancing in your career, this conversation provides valuable insights into workplace advocacy. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction to Navigating Life with Vision Loss 00:28 – Welcome to the Advocacy Series: Workplace & Career Challenges 01:50 – Meet Dominick Petrillo: Blind sports writer and accessibility advocate 03:30 – Breaking into the sports writing industry as a blind journalist 05:10 – Networking and making connections in the media world 07:20 – The biggest workplace barriers for blind professionals 09:40 – Challenges in accessibility: Researching and publishing articles 12:00 – Advocating for website accessibility and industry resistance 15:10 – Strategies for advocating with employers and hiring managers 18:50 – Discrimination in hiring: Personal experiences 22:40 – Advice for jobseekers on when to disclose blindness 26:00 – Tools and technology: How Dominick sets up his workspace 30:20 – Mental resilience: Dealing with rejection in the job search 32:50 – What employers should know about hiring blind professionals 35:00 – Resources for jobseekers with vision loss 36:00 – Closing thoughts and what’s next in the Advocacy Series Guest Information Dominick Petrillo Twitter (X): @EnvisionFF LinkedIn: Dominick Petrillo Email: dominicpetrillo@gmail.com Resources Mentioned American Council of the Blind (ACB) – www.acb.org American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) – www.afb.org National Federation of the Blind (NFB) – www.nfb.org AFB Job Listings – Employers actively seeking blind professionals Connect with AfterSight Website: AfterSight.org Email: contact@aftersight.org Phone: 303-786-7777 Social Media: Follow AfterSight on all platforms for updates! Join Us Next Episode! Next week, we continue our Advocacy Series with a discussion on legal advocacy and fighting for equal rights. We’ll explore disability laws, employment rights, and policy changes that impact the blind community. Don’t miss it!

    37 min

  2. MAR 18

    S103 Advocacy Through Education

    In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow welcomes Dr. L Penny Rosenblum, a nationally recognized expert in blindness education and advocacy. With over 30 years of experience in research, teaching, and program development, Penny shares her insights on how students, families, and educators can advocate for accessible education. She discusses the impact of the pandemic on blind and low-vision students, the role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and practical steps for self-advocacy in schools. The conversation also covers key laws affecting students with disabilities and strategies for parents to ensure their children receive appropriate educational support. Penny shares personal stories, including her own experience growing up with low vision, and offers valuable advice on navigating accessibility challenges in the education system. Episode Highlights & Chapter Markers: 00:02 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss 00:27 – Introduction to Penny Rosenblum & today’s topic: Advocacy in Education 02:23 – Penny’s background: Living through every phase of blind education 04:04 – Early experiences with advocacy & learning to stand firm 05:46 – The pandemic’s impact on blind students & education accessibility 08:51 – Challenges of virtual learning & accessibility solutions 11:41 – Education in 2025: Current challenges & improvements 13:08 – Advice for parents navigating districts with limited support 19:36 – When to consider specialized schools for blind students 23:09 – Teaching students self-advocacy skills from a young age 26:52 – Key laws impacting blind students, including IDEA and IEP rights 35:46 – The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) and its importance 38:32 – Advocating effectively: Keeping records, finding allies, and solving problems 42:06 – Stories of successful advocacy & self-advocacy strategies 46:10 – Closing thoughts: Encouraging independence and problem-solving Connect with Us: 📧 Email: jonathan@aftersight.org 📞 Call/Text: (720) 712-8856 🌐 Website: Aftersight.org 💬 Share Your Thoughts! Have feedback or questions? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us and share your thoughts on this episode. 🎧 Next Week’s Episode: Advocating in the Workplace with Dominic Petrillo – A sports writer navigating accessibility in his career. Don’t miss it!

    48 min

  3. MAR 11

    S102: Self Advocacy with Melissa Fishburn

    This is the second episode in our 16-week series on advocacy. In this episode, Kim Wardlow welcomes Melissa Fishburne, an Aftersight board member, to discuss her journey of self-advocacy and the importance of empowering oneself. Melissa shares her personal experiences growing up with low vision, the challenges she faced in embracing her identity, and how she ultimately became a strong advocate for herself and others. Listeners will gain insights into self-confidence, finding the right resources, and overcoming misconceptions about advocacy. Melissa also highlights practical steps for advocating in the workplace and everyday life. Chapter Markers: 00:02 - Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss 00:27 - Introduction to the Advocacy Series 02:54 - Melissa Fishburne’s Story: From Hiding Vision Loss to Embracing Advocacy 05:18 - Discovering Resources and Community Support 07:39 - Building Self-Confidence and Overcoming Fear 09:48 - Training and Certification for Advocacy 12:11 - Personal Experiences in Self-Advocacy 15:25 - Common Misconceptions About Advocacy 17:36 - The Importance of Educating Others 20:04 - Handling Pushback and Challenging Situations 22:30 - Self-Worth and the Role of Community Support 24:57 - Recognizing Toxic Environments in Advocacy 27:17 - Resources: Foundation Fighting Blindness and More 29:42 - Workplace Advocacy: Knowing Your Rights 32:14 - Closing Advice from Melissa 34:31 - Contact Information and Upcoming Episode Preview Key Takeaways: ✅ Know Your Worth – Confidence and self-respect are essential for effective advocacy. ✅ Find the Right Resources – Organizations like the Foundation Fighting Blindness and Aftersight offer valuable support. ✅ Educate Others – Advocacy involves not just fighting for your own needs but also helping others understand accommodations and accessibility. ✅ Stand Firm – Facing pushback is part of the process, but knowing your rights can help you navigate challenges. ✅ Community is Key – Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Resources & Contact Information: 📌 Aftersight Advocacy Resources: www.aftersight.org 📌 Email Us: contact@aftersight.org 📌 Call Us: (303) 786-7777 📌 Follow Us on Social Media 📢 Other Aftersight Podcasts to Check Out: 🎙️ The Blind Chick – Top 10% worldwide podcast on blindness & empowerment 🎙️ Blind Level Tech – Accessible technology for blind and low-vision individuals 🎙️ Blindsight – Mental health & wellness in the blind community Next Episode Preview: Join us next week as we discuss advocating for yourself in an educational setting, whether you're a student or a parent of a student navigating accessibility in schools. 🎧 Tune in, share your thoughts, and keep advocating for yourself and others! #NavigatingLifeWithVisionLoss

    35 min

  4. MAR 4

    S101 Advocacy 101 with Angela Winfield

    In the kickoff to the new 16-week season on advocacy, Navigating Life with Vision Loss welcomes Angela Winfield, an attorney and nationally recognized disability rights advocate. Angela shares her personal journey from being a shy child with low vision to becoming an empowered advocate, passing the bar, and influencing accessibility policies. This episode explores the fundamentals of advocacy, how individuals can find their advocacy style, and why no cape is required to be an effective advocate. Angela breaks down: The definition and importance of advocacy The three key styles of advocacy: disruptors, table-builders, and quiet influencers How to develop advocacy skills (communication, self-awareness, strategy) The role of empathy in advocacy Legal foundations: ADA, Air Carrier Access Act, Fair Housing Act Everyday self-advocacy tips and how to handle difficult situations (e.g., public accommodations, Uber guide dog refusals) Her personal "aha moment" of independence while studying abroad Angela’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and breaking barriers, making this a must-listen for anyone navigating life with vision loss or looking to become a stronger advocate. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Intro to the New Advocacy Series 00:27 – Welcome Back! New Format for 2025 01:30 – Guest Introduction: Angela Winfield 02:53 – Angela’s Personal Journey into Advocacy 07:27 – Angela’s "Aha Moment" in the Airport 09:29 – Defining Advocacy & Its Importance 11:47 – The Three Styles of Advocacy 16:33 – Building Advocacy Skills: Communication & Empathy 23:21 – The Role of Empathy in Advocacy 27:47 – Key Laws & Regulations for Blind Advocates 32:24 – Steps to Start an Advocacy Effort 34:39 – Navigating Everyday Advocacy Situations 36:48 – Challenges Blind Advocates Face & Overcoming Stereotypes 42:19 – Final Thoughts & How to Get Involved 45:30 – Where to Find Angela & Closing Remarks Connect with Angela Winfield Website: AngelaWinfield.com LinkedIn: Angela Winfield Upcoming Episode Next week, the advocacy series continues with a deep dive into self-empowerment and personal advocacy strategies. Learn how to confidently advocate for yourself in various situations and strengthen your voice! 🔔 Subscribe to Navigating Life with Vision Loss and check out our other Aftersight podcasts: Blindsight (Mental Health & Blindness) Blind Level Tech (Accessible Technology) The Blind Chick (Blind Culture & Community) 📢 Share this episode with friends and leave a review to support the show!

    45 min

  5. 12/31/2024

    New look for NLVL 2025

    Episode Title: Looking Ahead to 2025 Host: Kim Wardlow Guest: Jonathan Price Episode Overview: In this special New Year’s episode, host Kim Wardlow is joined by Aftersight Podcast Producer Jonathan Price to discuss exciting changes coming to Navigating Life with Vision Loss and updates on Aftersight's other podcasts. Jonathan shares insights into NLVL’s new seasonal format, the topics for the Spring and Fall 2025 seasons, and how listeners can contribute questions and guest suggestions. They also highlight Aftersight’s other podcasts (Blind Level Tech, The Blind Chick, and Blindsight) and tease collaborations, live events, and outreach plans for 2025. Key Highlights: Seasonal Format for NLVL: Starting March 2025, NLVL will adopt a seasonal structure with two 16-episode seasons per year, focusing on advocacy in Spring and safety in Fall. Call for Listener Input: Encouragement for listeners to submit questions, topic ideas, and guest suggestions. Other Aftersight Podcasts: Updates on Blind Level Tech, The Blind Chick, and Blindsight, including their unique focuses and growing global recognition. Upcoming Initiatives: Plans for live events, conference appearances, expanded social media presence, and community outreach sessions in 2025. Chapter Markers: 00:29 – Introduction and holiday reflections with Jonathan Price. 04:46 – Overview of changes to Navigating Life with Vision Loss. 07:39 – Details on the new seasonal format and Spring 2025 advocacy focus. 13:22 – Highlights from Aftersight’s other podcasts. 20:09 – Community outreach plans and feedback opportunities. 23:06 – Closing thoughts on upcoming programming and a Happy New Year.

    25 min

  6. 12/24/2024

    Yearly planning and Goal Setting

    Episode Title: New Year, New Goals Host: Kim Wardlow Guest: Charlie Kramer Episode Overview: In this special New Year’s Eve episode, host Kim Wardlow is joined by guest Charlie Kramer to discuss setting meaningful and achievable goals for 2025. They delve into strategies for creating effective goals, tracking progress, and managing challenges like fear of failure and unexpected obstacles. Charlie shares his personal experiences and insights on balancing ambition with grace and offers practical tools for staying accountable and focused throughout the year. Key Highlights: Reflecting on 2024: Kim and Charlie discuss looking back at accomplishments and lessons learned. Breaking Down Goals: Tips on setting specific, measurable goals with smaller benchmarks. Prioritization: Distinguishing between present priorities and long-term goals. Accountability Tools: How to leverage apps, coaches, or trusted friends to stay on track. Failure as Growth: Embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and move forward. Kindness and Courage: Encouraging self-compassion and bravery in setting and pursuing goals. Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Introduction and episode overview. 01:35 – Guest introduction: Charlie Kramer’s reflections on 2024 and personal milestones. 03:46 – Goals vs. resolutions: A fresh approach to New Year planning. 07:40 – Setting specific goals and breaking them into smaller steps. 11:30 – Categorizing goals and identifying present priorities. 15:22 – Accountability strategies and tools for success. 19:22 – Flexibility in the face of challenges and reframing failure. 23:41 – Reassessing and adjusting goals over time. 27:43 – Writing goals down: The key to clarity and focus. 31:17 – Final advice: Be kind and courageous with yourself.

    32 min

  7. 12/17/2024

    Staying Connected with Family Durning the Holidays

    In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes Bill Lundgren back to discuss strategies for staying connected with loved ones during the holiday season. They explore how vision loss impacts relationships, share insights on overcoming barriers, and discuss the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and embracing technology to maintain meaningful connections. Kim also expresses gratitude to all who donated on Colorado Gives Day, emphasizing the support it provides for Aftersight's programs, including virtual book clubs, peer support groups, and white cane distribution. Chapter Markers: 00:05 - Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss 02:21 - Vision loss and its impact on relationships 04:25 - Circles of connection: Maintaining relationships 06:42 - Asking for help: Changing perspectives 10:21 - Overcoming internal barriers to connection 12:41 - Initiating and deepening relationships 17:03 - Balancing effort in relationships 18:48 - Using technology to stay connected 21:02 - Adapting to changing relationships 25:08 - Levels of intimacy and connection 27:36 - Choosing which relationships to nurture 30:02 - Closing thoughts and upcoming episodes Contact Information: Phone: (720) 712-8856 Email: feedback@aftersight.org

    30 min

  8. 12/10/2024

    Shopping Made Easy

    In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow is joined by Penn Street from The Blind Chick Podcast to explore strategies for making holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable for those with low vision. From the accessibility challenges of online shopping to the benefits of shopping local and personalized gift ideas, Penn shares her insights and experiences. They discuss using assistive technologies like Be My Eyes, the joy of giving experiences over material gifts, and the importance of taking care of yourself during the holiday season. The episode also highlights Colorado Gives Day and encourages listeners to consider charitable giving as a meaningful holiday gift. Chapter Markers 00:31 – Introduction and Colorado Gives Day 02:07 – Welcoming Guest Penn Street and the Holiday Spirit 03:08 – Challenges and Strategies for In-Person Shopping 04:07 – Charitable Giving as a Holiday Gift 05:45 – Benefits of Online Shopping and Accessibility Challenges 09:13 – Personalizing Gift Lists and Using Technology 12:00 – Navigating Tactile and Sentimental Gifts 16:00 – Funny Anecdotes from Shopping Experiences 17:23 – Accessibility Issues in Online Shopping Platforms 21:02 – Giving Experiences and Non-Material Gifts 26:20 – Personalizing Strategies for Stress-Free Shopping 30:11 – Self-Care During the Holidays 32:12 – Closing Thoughts and Holiday Wishes Contact Information Aftersight Website: aftersight.org Phone: (720) 712-8856 Email: feedback@aftersight.org Guest Contact Penn Street: Co-host of The Blind Chick Podcast

    33 min
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    About

    "Navigating Life with Vision Loss" is an AINC original podcast. In this weekly podcast, we answer your questions on a variety of topics surrounding vision loss. Need to know what to do in standing up for yourself? Wondering how to find a counselor or therapist? Do you need to know how to fill out patient forms in a crowded doctor's office? This show is for you. We're giving a voice to the challenges faced by people with blindness or vision loss. We're here as a resource for you, your family, and your friends. This service is made possible by generous donations. Consider supporting us at www.aftersight.org to help keep these resources free. Aftersight also provides free white canes, support groups, and more, all thanks to contributions from our community.

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