Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential

The Lighthouse of Houston
  • 5.0 (15)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

What can blind and low vision individuals achieve when given the right support and resources? Jennifer Parrish hosts Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential, a podcast sharing real stories and adventures from the blind and low vision community. The Lighthouse of Houston provides this support, offering job training, assistive technology, and mobility training. The podcast aims to show that blindness does not define one's potential, highlighting the vibrant lives and successes of its members. Learn more at houstonlighthouse.org.

  1. 4D AGO

    Inside National Industries for the Blind with CEO Soraya Correa

    Jennifer welcomes Soraya Correa, President and CEO of National Industries for the Blind, to explore meaningful employment for blind and low vision professionals. Correa explains NIB’s nationwide network, the AbilityOne program, policy priorities, and practical strategies that help employers build inclusive workplaces and advance careers beyond entry level roles.​ Learn more about NIB here. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Blind unemployment is roughly double that of people without disabilities, despite significant untapped talent and daily problem-solving skills.​ 2. NIB coordinates more than 100 nonprofits producing products like pens, textiles, and aircraft parts, plus services including cybersecurity, warehousing, and contract management.​ 3. The AbilityOne program uses federal procurement to drive jobs, with NIB supporting about 5,000 positions in a recent fiscal year, including many veterans.​ 4. Meaningful careers are defined by individual choice, from kitting and manufacturing to professional services and certified contract management roles.​ 5. Average accommodation costs are modest, around a few hundred dollars per employee, with accessible technology and training unlocking productivity.​ Timestamped Overview 01:03 Introduction to Sightless Voices; Jennifer Parish presents guest Soraya Correa.​ 02:07 Correa’s 40-year federal career and path to NIB leadership.​ 10:46 NIB mission, network of nonprofits, and overview of products and services.​ 24:29 Job numbers, veteran employment, and local impact through agencies like Lighthouse of Houston.​ 36:13 Building inclusive workplaces, typical accommodation costs, technology, transportation, and NIB’s OnSite training.​ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    23 min

  2. FEB 3

    Pageants, Pedals, and the Power of Poetry: One Advocate’s Renaissance

    Jennifer Parrish welcomes Marcela San Miguel back to the show. Marcela discusses her father's passing, leadership in the Foundation Fighting Blindness, and her pageant win. Tandem biking and duathlon participation mark another milestone. She emphasizes grief counseling, finding purpose, and community involvement. Marcela plans to focus her efforts for the coming year. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Marcela San Miguel shares her journey through the significant loss of her father, acknowledging the emotional turmoil and growth that resulted. Processing grief, especially with the guidance of counseling, can become a catalyst for personal transformation and renewed purpose. 2. Experiencing personal challenges motivated Marcela San Miguel to take on leadership roles, such as becoming the president of the Houston chapter of Foundation Fighting Blindness. Turning adversity into activism not only honors loved ones but can also create widespread positive change in the community. 3. Through poetry and writing, Marcela San Miguel found a genuine way to process emotions and loss. Embracing creative outlets allows for authentic healing and the sharing of one’s truth, which can encourage others to find their own voices. 4. Participation in inclusive events like the Miss Heart of Texas pageant and athletic challenges highlighted the importance of visibility, representation, and empowerment for people with disabilities. Such platforms challenge stereotypes and demonstrate that beauty, strength, and achievement are accessible to all. 5. Both speakers underline the value of engaging with organizations like Lighthouse of Houston and supportive networks such as SheSpace. Community involvement not only offers practical resources and companionship, but also helps individuals find their passion, grow in confidence, and inspire others to participate and lead. Timestamped Overview 00:00 "Podcast, Leadership, and Loss" 06:24 "Writing to Heal and Express" 08:40 "Loss, Grief, and Struggles" 11:23 "Empowering Beauty Beyond Pageants" 15:54 Tandem Biking and Duathlon Plans 19:07 "Endurance, Heat, and Motivation" 19:59 "Injury Impacted Duathlon Training" 23:23 "Advancing Research for Vision Cures" 27:23 "Supporting Through Engagement" 30:41 "Empowerment Through Sightless Voices" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min

  3. JAN 20

    Building Community and Confidence After Blindness

    Losing sight changes everything. Shante Hines joins Jennifer Parrish to share her story of vision loss, medical complications, and adapting to new challenges. She discusses accessing resources at the Lighthouse of Houston, connecting with community groups, and finding support through music and group activities. Steps forward come through community, technology, and persistence. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Shante Hines shares her personal story of vision loss, from the medical challenges and misdiagnosis to the emotional turmoil and eventual acceptance. The main message is that adjusting to vision loss is deeply personal, involving grief, adaptation, and self-compassion. There’s no single “right” way to process or accept such a drastic life transition. 2. Both Shante Hines and Jennifer Parrish highlight how finding community—whether through support groups, choir, or organizations—provides invaluable resources, empathy, and a sense of belonging. The key idea is that no one has to go through it alone; community involvement combats isolation and offers emotional and practical support. 3. Learning adaptive skills (like technology, mobility with a cane, or daily living practices) is essential for regaining independence after vision loss. Shante Hines’s story illustrates that confidence is rebuilt step-by-step, and it’s empowering to tackle new challenges, even if the learning curve is steep. 4. Engaging in meaningful, joyful activities—such as singing in the choir—cultivates mental health and instills a sense of purpose. Shante Hines encourages others to find what makes them happy, emphasizing that creativity and self-expression can be powerful healing tools along the journey. 5. Participating in advocacy groups and staying informed about resources (like the Lighthouse’s programs, therapy, and technology training) are critical for ongoing growth. The episode underscores that learning and advocating not just enhances one’s own life, but also strengthens the broader visually impaired community. Timestamped Overview See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min

  4. JAN 6

    Becoming a Guide Dog User: What You Need to Know

    How does a chance encounter reshape a career and a life? Pat Glines went from a banking job to becoming a leader in guide dog mobility, inspired by supporting a friend through vision loss. Witnessing the impact of guide dogs fueled a passion that’s spanned over three decades. Today, she dedicates herself to matching people with life-changing canine partners at Guide Dogs of Texas. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Guide dogs do more than just assist with mobility; they have a holistic impact on clients’ lives—improving independence, confidence, health, and overall well-being. Pat Glines shares stories exemplifying how guide dogs motivate individuals to live more active and fulfilling lives. 2. Matching a guide dog with a client is a nuanced process blending art, science, and deep understanding of both the dog and the individual’s unique needs. Successful partnerships depend on personalized training in real-world environments, making client-centered service a top priority. 3. Strong O&M skills, especially with the white cane, are crucial—even for guide dog users. Pat Glines emphasizes that clients need proficiency with a cane for situations where a guide dog isn’t available, ensuring that independence isn’t solely dependent on the dog. 4. Guide dogs are unique in that they must make independent decisions—sometimes even resisting a handler’s commands for safety, a principle known as “intelligent disobedience.” This contrasts with most service dogs, which primarily respond directly to cues. 5. Community involvement, through puppy raising, volunteering, and donations, is essential for the sustainability of guide dog programs. Pat Glines highlights the need for continued support, individualized aftercare, and adapting to future opportunities and technologies to ensure long-term success. Timestamped Overview 00:00 "Pat's Global Guide Dog Impact" 06:15 "Adapting to Change" 07:51 Guide Dog Mobility Insights 12:31 "Improved Fitness Through Training" 14:31 "Dog-Client Matching Process" 17:27 Guide Dog Training Process 22:33 Client-Centered Service Excellence 25:58 Improving Guide Dog Services 28:48 Guide Dog Decision Insights See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min

  5. 12/16/2025

    Overcoming Diabetic Retinopathy: Support, Growth & Resources

    She rebounded after losing their sight not once, but twice. Lauren Jones’s story is one of boldness and self-advocacy, navigating total blindness after diabetic retinopathy. With support from Kris Cole Rehabilitation Center and the Lighthouse of Houston, she found new purpose in community and career readiness. Through determination and a fierce spirit, she continues to inspire others to get out of the house and embrace life’s opportunities. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Lauren Jones shared her deeply personal experience of losing vision due to diabetic retinopathy, emphasizing the emotional toll—including depression—after sudden vision loss. The conversation highlights how grieving and adapting is a process, but with time, resources, and support, people can regain confidence and independence. 2. Both Lauren Jones and Jennifer Parrish discussed the transformative role of places like Kris Cole Rehabilitation Center, the Lighthouse of Houston, and peer-led social groups. These institutions provide not just practical skills (cooking, orientation & mobility, computer use), but also a sense of belonging, encouragement, and empowerment. 3. There's a strong message around self-advocacy—making calls, seeking out resources, and not sitting at home waiting for change. Lauren Jones emphasized how blind and low vision individuals are just as capable as sighted people, and employers’ misconceptions should be challenged by demonstrating competence and initiative. 4. Getting out of the house, finding social activities, and engaging in groups like DREAMS Elite Social were presented as crucial for mental health and self-development. Activities offered by the Lighthouse or the Houston Council for the Blind not only break isolation but also foster community and personal growth. 5. Enrolling in classes, like the customer service certification course, and learning technology (like JAWS screen reader) were described as meaningful steps towards re-entering the workforce and reshaping identity. The central idea is that vision loss is not the end of opportunity—it’s an invitation to learn new skills and find new roles that may suit you even better than before. Timestamped Overview 00:00 "Lauren's Inspiring Lighthouse Journey" 04:06 Diabetes and Vision Loss Awareness 07:05 Non-Visual Cooking and Cleaning 10:13 Dreams: Houston's Elite Social Club 14:23 Blindness Doesn't Equal Inability 16:51 "Exploring Customer Service Growth" 20:45 Blind Music Rehearsals Thursday 25:29 Preparing for Employment Success See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min

  6. 12/02/2025

    How Adult Day Programs at The Lighthouse of Houston Empower People with Vision Loss

    A truck driver’s world changed in an instant when blindness altered every familiar road. For Mo Frank, the shift from long highways to the welcoming halls of the Lighthouse of Houston marked the beginning of renewal. Losing his sight meant relearning daily routines and rediscovering confidence step by step. Through training in orientation, mobility, and independent living, he found strength in adaptability and community. Surrounded by new friends, Mo now helps others navigate their own journeys while continuing to build his own path forward. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Resilience Through Vision LossTakeaway:Mo Frank’s journey illustrates that losing vision, while traumatic and life-altering, is not the end. His story underscores the importance of facing adversity head-on, adapting to change, and finding inner strength—even in the darkest times. 2. The Power of Community and Support SystemsTakeaway:Mo explains how finding the Lighthouse of Houston and connecting with others in the adult day program was instrumental for his healing and sense of belonging. The support, kindness, and camaraderie among peers made an otherwise isolating experience feel manageable and even joyful. 3. Humility and Personal GrowthTakeaway:Vision loss forced Mo to reevaluate not just his daily life but also his character and relationships. Moving from being a helper to someone who needs help is deeply humbling, and the experience prompted honest self-reflection, personal transformation, and a greater ability to connect authentically with others. 4. The Value of Skills Training (O&M and ADL)Takeaway:Orientation & Mobility (O&M) and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) training are crucial for regaining independence and confidence. Mo emphasizes how practical skills—like proper cane use and safe navigation—help rebuild lost autonomy and open up the world again for people with vision loss. 5. The Importance of Seeking and Using ResourcesTakeaway:Mo encourages others experiencing vision loss not to isolate themselves but to actively reach out for help. Using community resources like the Lighthouse of Houston, support groups, and assistive technology can truly restore not just functionality, but hope and a sense of purpose. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mo's Journey to Independence 03:11 Post-Vaccine Vision Changes 07:21 Kindness Builds Support Networks 11:03 Grateful for Community Support 14:35 Adult Day Program Details 17:04 Overcoming Obstacles Through Training 19:31 Live vs. Virtual Shopping Help See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    23 min

  7. 11/18/2025

    How Christine Ha Became the First Blind Winner of MasterChef

    What began as a challenge in the kitchen became Christine Ha’s defining creation. After losing her vision in her twenties, she learned to move by instinct, relying on sound, touch, and memory to guide her craft. Cooking transformed from a test of endurance into an art of adaptation. When she stepped onto the national stage and captured the title of MasterChef, her talent proved that vision takes many forms. Today, Christine Ha inspires millions to trust their senses and redefine what’s possible. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways 1. Navigating Vision Loss and Building Resilience Takeaway: Christine Ha’s story demonstrates the emotional challenges of losing vision, including grief, adaptation, and the importance of perseverance. Processing these emotions is normal, and seeking support enables individuals to find new ways to pursue their goals, even if they have to approach things differently than before. 2. The Influence of Heritage and Identity in Personal Growth Takeaway: Christine’s Vietnamese American upbringing and the influence of her family’s culture deeply shaped her cooking style and personal journey. Embracing cultural roots can be both a challenge and a source of inspiration, especially for those straddling multiple identities and traditions. 3. The Power of Adaptation and Organization in Daily Life Takeaway: Organization and adaptability are key to independence for those with vision loss. Christine discusses leveraging technology, systematizing her environment, and using accessibility tools (like bump dots and smart appliances) to continue cooking and managing daily life effectively. 4. Challenging Societal Assumptions and Advocating for Inclusion Takeaway: There are widespread misconceptions about blindness and low vision, especially the belief that vision is either fully present or completely absent, when, in reality, it exists on a spectrum. Christine stresses education, open dialogue, and asking respectfully how and when to support people with vision loss, as well as advocating for more inclusive product design. 5. Representation, Achievement, and Inspiring Others Takeaway: Christine’s MasterChef win as a blind contestant breaks stereotypes and highlights what’s possible with determination and support. Her story serves not only as personal triumph but as broader inspiration for the visually impaired community, reinforcing the idea that pursuing passions and excelling is achievable with creativity and community backing. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Cooking Through Loss and Change 04:29 Heritage Through Food and Identity 06:14 Overcoming Doubt and Adapting 12:05 User Experience in Dining 13:17 Blindness Exists on a Spectrum 17:26 Audition Process for Cooking Show 21:28 MasterChef Field Challenges Stress 24:28 Stuffed Belly Sandwich Creations 27:02 Perseverance Through Vision Loss See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min

  8. 11/04/2025

    A Veteran's Guide to Vision Rehabilitation and Independence

    A dedicated Army medic’s transformation into a leading advocate for blinded veterans reflects the power of resilience and purpose. Dr. Thomas Zampieri’s journey began with a military calling inspired by family heroes and evolved into a distinguished medical career. When retinitis pigmentosa ended his surgical work, he redirected his expertise toward advancing policy and support for veterans with vision loss. Through advocacy and education, Dr. Zampieri continues to shape the lives of thousands within the blindness community. Subscribe to Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts! Key Takeaways Journey Through Vision LossTakeaway: Dr. Zampieri’s personal journey from military service to experiencing progressive vision loss due to retinitis pigmentosa highlights the challenges and emotional adjustments required to adapt to a life-changing diagnosis. His story creates empathy and demonstrates that managing such a transition involves both acceptance and seeking out new paths to remain independent and impactful. Military Service and Its InfluenceTakeaway: Dr. Zampieri’s military background had a lasting influence on his later advocacy. Early experiences as an army medic, particularly witnessing the rehabilitation of wounded soldiers during the Vietnam era, shaped his lifelong dedication to rehabilitation and advocacy for disabled veterans. Career Reinvention and AdvocacyTakeaway: After losing his vision, Dr. Zampieri was able to reinvent himself through education (political science and policy) and became a powerful advocate for disabled veterans. His journey illustrates how career shifts are possible after a major life event, and meaningful advocacy work can draw on a diverse range of experiences and skills. Community and CollaborationTakeaway: The strength of the blind and visually impaired community comes from collaboration—across advocacy organizations, researchers, and healthcare professionals. Dr. Zampieri’s work with multiple organizations (Blind Veterans Association, National Federation for the Blind, etc.) demonstrates how collective efforts can drive policy changes, funding for research, and broader support for people with vision loss. Importance of Rehabilitation and AcceptanceTakeaway: Seeking out and accepting rehabilitation services—such as orientation and mobility, training with assistive technology, and embracing tools like the white cane—are critical steps in regaining confidence and independence. Dr. Zampieri encourages others to overcome the stigma associated with vision loss, reminding listeners that support and resources are available and vital for living a fulfilling, empowered life. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Supporting Veterans with Vision Loss 05:21 From Medic to Political Scientist 09:03 Veterans Advocacy and Military Experience 10:15 Offered Advocacy Role Unexpectedly 13:58 Vision Loss and Its Challenges 18:41 Advocating Vision Research Funding 21:47 Help for Veterans with Vision Loss See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min
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About

What can blind and low vision individuals achieve when given the right support and resources? Jennifer Parrish hosts Sightless Voices: Unleashing Potential, a podcast sharing real stories and adventures from the blind and low vision community. The Lighthouse of Houston provides this support, offering job training, assistive technology, and mobility training. The podcast aims to show that blindness does not define one's potential, highlighting the vibrant lives and successes of its members. Learn more at houstonlighthouse.org.

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