iCantCU Podcast David B. Goldstein

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss various engaging topics that have kept me busy over the past week. I begin with a humorous anecdote about a raffle where an unsold ticket wins. I reflect on my participation in a recent podcast episode of "That Real Blind Tech Show," where Brian and Ed critiqued Michael Schuman's article in The Atlantic, 
I shift to local events, sharing my experiences at a transition fair aimed at assisting students moving between major educational stages. I also delve into challenges with accessibility, particularly highlighting frustrations with the Johnston and Murphy website and other digital platforms that fail to accommodate the visually impaired.
A significant highlight is my account of an eclipse listening party, where a device from Harvard was supposed to enhance the experience for the visually impaired. Despite high expectations, the device was underwhelming to me, though the social aspect of the event was enriching.
The episode also touches on systemic issues faced by disabled riders with SEPTA, Philadelphia's public transit authority. I criticize their outsourcing practices and lack of reliable service, which I illustrate with personal stories that underscore the inconvenience caused to disabled passengers.
Episode 262 is packed with personal stories, advocacy, and a candid look at the intersection of technology, accessibility, and community in the life of a visually impaired individual.
Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/262.   
Links Mentioned (product links are affiliate links, so I may earn a commission.)
Octobuddy for hands-free selfies & vlogs with your iPhone: https://amzn.to/49kmbHZ  The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight by Andrew Leland: https://amzn.to/46z0qT7 Find this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU No-jab Ambutech White Cane: https://amzn.to/3NKpD5J  That Real Blind Tech Show episode 150: https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-150-csun-24-recap-irish-car-bombs-and-a-flaming-fischler  Support iCantCU
When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!
White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 100
In episode 100, Lisa and I speak with National Federation of the Blind President Mark Riccobono. He reflects on the podcast's journey, emphasizing its role in amplifying the voices of the blind community and fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. He shares his journey with blindness, highlighting the transformative impact of finding mentorship and a supportive community within the Federation. 
We discussed the militant tag that some outside our organization give us. I especially enjoyed the story he told about being with some Federationists and being denied entry to a ride-share because of a guide dog. Listen to see what Gary Wunder did! 
 Find the podcast on
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
IHeartRadio
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/
YouTube
Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
White Canes Connect On Twitter
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Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podca

In episode 261 of iCantCU, I dive into a heartfelt discussion, primarily focusing on an article from The Atlantic that caught my attention thanks to my sister-in-law. The piece, titled "I'm Disabled. Please Help Me." reflects on the challenges visually impaired individuals face in navigating public spaces and prompts me to share my own experiences and insights. I emphasize the importance of independence and the unnecessary help often imposed by sighted individuals, suggesting that such interventions can sometimes be more hindering than helpful.
I critique the article's portrayal of visually impaired people as constantly in need of assistance, arguing that it perpetuates stereotypes and misunderstands the capabilities and adaptive strategies of those living with visual impairments.
By sharing my journey of adapting to blindness, including leveraging technology like smartphones and screen readers, I advocate for a more nuanced understanding of independence among visually impaired individuals. I challenge the article's implications, highlighting the importance of asking for help when needed rather than assuming incapacity.
My reflections extend beyond personal anecdotes to address broader misconceptions about blindness, employment challenges, and the importance of mobility training. I call for a shift in perspective that recognizes the competence and autonomy of visually impaired people, urging society to listen and respond to their actual needs rather than imposing misguided assistance.
This episode is a powerful testament to my advocacy for independence and empowerment within the visually impaired community, challenging stereotypes and encouraging a more inclusive and understanding approach to disability.
You can read the article at https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/03/disability-blindness-daily-life/677742/.
Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/261.   
Links Mentioned (product links are affiliate links, so I may earn a commission.)
Octobuddy for hands-free selfies & vlogs with your iPhone: https://amzn.to/49kmbHZ  The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight by Andrew Leland: https://amzn.to/46z0qT7 Find this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU No-jab Ambutech White Cane: https://amzn.to/3NKpD5J   The new BenQ PD3420Q monitor I bought for my new Mac mini: https://amzn.to/4bAcOGv  Blind Organizations
US: NFB - https://www.nfb.org; UK: RNIB - https://www.rnib.org.uk/, NFBUK - https://www.nfbuk.org/; Spain: ONCE - https://www.once.es/; Canada: CFB - https://www.cfb.ca, CNIB - https://www.cnib.ca; China: Orbis - https://www.orbis.org/.
Support iCantCU
When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!
White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 09
In episode 099, Simon Bonenfant speaks with Jason Gonzalez and Holly Short from the Delaware County Intermediate Unit about the upcoming transition fairs on April 9 and 10. There will be over 40 organizations to help students transition from middle school to high school and from high school to college. The pair also share what services the DCIU provides to students with disabilities.
 Find the podcast on
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
IHeartRadio
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/
YouTube
Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
White Canes Connect On Twitter
Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast
My Podcast Gear
Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.
Zoom Podtrak P4: https://amzn.to/33Ymjkt Zoom ZDM Mic & Headphone Pack: https://amz

In this episode of iCantCU, I share some exciting updates and stories. First, I want to thank Renee, Dan, and Alex for supporting the NFB of Pennsylvania April raffle. It's been a fun ride with tickets at $5 each, offering everyone a chance to win daily throughout April. Getting those tickets out, especially to our visually impaired friends, has been a journey involving some creative solutions and a little help from technology.
In this episode, I also share my recent travels and experiences, starting with a leadership seminar in State College, PA. This year's seminar took a fresh approach with committee meetings and a strong focus on team building, which I found incredibly valuable. A personal highlight was a visit to the Berkey Creamery—if you ever find yourself in State College, their ice cream is a must-try.
Then, there was the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) meeting in Harrisburg. It's been eye-opening to discuss the slow progress and challenges within the program, particularly around training. It's clear there's a lot of work to be done, and I'm hopeful for improvements in the future.
Throughout the episode, I sprinkle in personal anecdotes, like my father's lottery number superstitions and the adventures of navigating public transportation as a visually impaired person. These stories add a bit of humor and light-heartedness to our journey together.
Thanks for tuning in to episode 260 of the iCantCU podcast. Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to sharing more stories, insights, and laughs with you in future episodes.Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/260    
Links Mentioned
Buy raffle tickets to support the NFB of PA! Tickets are $5. Email iCantCUPodcast@gmail.com  Find this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU No-jab Ambutech White Cane: https://amzn.to/3NKpD5J The new BenQ PD3420Q monitor I bought for my new Mac mini: https://amzn.to/4bAcOGv  Amtrak code mentioned: V819. Call (800) USA-Rail to book NFB White Cane Program: https://nfb.org/programs-services/free-white-cane-program  Support iCantCU
When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!
White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 098
In episode 098, Lisa and I have an engaging conversation on low vision awareness. The episode featured insights from Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists Lachelle Smith from Salus University and Steve Kelley from Hadley, alongside Pam Baquaro, a blind vendor and President of the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants.
 
 Find the podcast on
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
IHeartRadio
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/
YouTube
Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
White Canes Connect On Twitter
Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast
My Podcast Gear
Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.
Zoom Podtrak P4: https://amzn.to/33Ymjkt Zoom ZDM Mic & Headphone Pack: https://amzn.to/33vLn2s Zoom H1n Recorder: https://amzn.to/3zBxJ9O  Gator Frameworks Desk Mounted Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3AjJuBK Shure SM58 S Mic: https://amzn.to/3JOzofg  Sennheiser Headset (1st 162 episodes): https://amzn.to/3fM0Hu0  Follow iCantCU on your favorite podcast directory!
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/icantcu-podcast/id1445801370/ 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nck2D5HgD9ckSaUQaWwW2 
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/iCantCU-Podcast-Podcast/B08JJM26BT 
IHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-icantcu-podcast-31157111/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.

In this episode of iCantCU, I share a mix of personal anecdotes and reflections on technology, media representation, and community engagement. 
My weekend outing with Liz to Brio, a restaurant in the Christiana Mall, turned into an exploration of assistive technology. I intended to pick up my Mac mini. Still, I delved into the capabilities and limitations of the "Be My Eyes" app over lunch. With Liz's help reading the menu, I relied on the app to make a dietary choice, only to find its limitations when it failed to recognize nutritional info on some menu items.
This experience segued into my participation in a study at the University of Texas at Austin, examining the effectiveness of AI in providing image descriptions. The study reminded me of technology's potential and current shortcomings in aiding those with visual impairments.
The episode's main focus, however, was on television and the portrayal of blind characters. I discussed my disappointment with "The Equalizer" episode titled "Blind Justice," critiquing the casting of a sighted actor in a blind role and the broader implications for representation in media. This led to a wider discussion on the importance of authentic representation and the challenges faced by actors with disabilities in the industry.
Additionally, I touched on the inconsistencies and quality issues with audio description services on television, sharing my frustrations with the accessibility features in shows like "SWAT" and "FBI." The variability in the availability and quality of audio descriptions highlights the ongoing struggle for equal access to entertainment.
I previewed episode 098 of White Canes Connect, which featured a discussion on low vision awareness with experts and community members. This underscored the diversity within the visually impaired community and the shared goal of improving accessibility and understanding.
Throughout episode 259, I weave together personal experiences with broader reflections on technology, media, and community, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities facing today's visually impaired community.
Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/259    
Links Mentioned
That Real Blind Tech Show episode 147 with The Equalizer audition: https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-147-fahrvergnugen-a-plenty  Buy raffle tickets to support the NFB of PA! Tickets are $5. Email iCantCUPodcast@gmail.com  Find this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU Dr. Carolyn Peters's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49hz1aA  The new BenQ PD3420Q monitor I bought for my new Mac mini: https://amzn.to/4bAcOGv  Support iCantCU
When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!
White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 098
In episode 098, Lisa and I have an engaging conversation on low vision awareness. The episode featured insights from Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists Lachelle Smith from Salus University and Steve Kelley from Hadley, alongside Pam Baquaro, a blind vendor and President of the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants.
 
 Find the podcast on
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
IHeartRadio
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/
YouTube
Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
White Canes Connect On Twitter
Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast
My Podcast Gear
Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.
Zoom Podtrak P4: https://amzn.to/33Ymjkt Zoom ZDM Mic & Headphone Pack: https://amzn.to/33vLn2s Zoom H1n Recorder: https://amzn.to/3zBx

In this episode of iCantCU, I focus on web accessibility, the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, and a unique raffle ticket sale to support the NFB of PA. 
I detail the raffle, explaining the process, the prizes, and the significance of the funds raised for the NFB of Pennsylvania. This initiative highlights the podcast's commitment to the visually impaired community and offers listeners a chance to contribute meaningfully.
Most of the episode is dedicated to meeting ADA-Expert.com representatives and discussing advancements in web accessibility tools and strategies. I share insights from this meeting, emphasizing the importance of making digital spaces accessible to all. I shared my feelings with the group on how they should proceed to market with their accessibility widget. 
Additionally, I provide a brief update on Ziggy, the Golden Menace. He seems to be doing well and wants to eat EVERYTHING.
Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/258   
Links Mentioned
Support Stacie Leap in her effort to launch a nonprofit to support blind parents: https://www.venmo.com/stacieleap  Buy raffle tickets to support the NFB of PA! Tickets are $5. Email iCantCUPodcast@gmail.com  Find this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU Dr. Carolyn Peters's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49hz1aA  The new BenQ PD3420Q monitor I bought for my new Mac mini: https://amzn.to/4bAcOGv  Support iCantCU
When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!
White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 097
In episode 097, Lisa and I explore the Diabetes Prevention Program with special guests Joani Schmeling from the Health Promotion Council and NFB of PA President Lynn Heights, a diabetes coach. The program, developed by the CDC, is designed to support individuals with pre-diabetes through lifestyle changes over a year, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and stress management. Lisa told us that she would start the program this month and promised to give us regular updates on her progress.
 Find the podcast on
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
IHeartRadio
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/
YouTube
Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
White Canes Connect On Twitter
Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast
My Podcast Gear
Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.
Zoom Podtrak P4: https://amzn.to/33Ymjkt Zoom ZDM Mic & Headphone Pack: https://amzn.to/33vLn2s Zoom H1n Recorder: https://amzn.to/3zBxJ9O  Gator Frameworks Desk Mounted Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3AjJuBK Shure SM58 S Mic: https://amzn.to/3JOzofg  Sennheiser Headset (1st 162 episodes): https://amzn.to/3fM0Hu0  Follow iCantCU on your favorite podcast directory!
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/icantcu-podcast/id1445801370/ 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nck2D5HgD9ckSaUQaWwW2 
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/iCantCU-Podcast-Podcast/B08JJM26BT 
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/davidbenj 
Reach out on social media
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Are You or Do You Know A Blind Boss?
If you or someone you know is crushing it in their field and is also blind, I want to hear from you! Call me at (646) 926-6350 and leave a message. Please include your name and town, and tell me who the Blind Bos

In this episode of iCantCU, I explore everything from unique fundraising efforts to the power of community meetings and the challenges blind parents face.
I begin with an exciting opportunity to support the NFB of Pennsylvania through a raffle with fantastic rewards. It's a simple way to contribute and stand a chance to win, with proceeds going directly to a great cause.
I also discuss the ongoing challenge of encouraging in-person attendance at our Keystone chapter meetings since the pandemic. Despite the convenience of Zoom, there's a unique value in face-to-face interactions that we're striving to rekindle.
Bringing donuts and coffee to meetings has become our strategy to boost in-person attendance. It's a small gesture that will strengthen our community bonds.
Our conversation shifts to supporting blind parents, spotlighting Stacie's initiative to launch a nonprofit. This effort aims to address the unique challenges blind parents face, from societal prejudices to practical hurdles in child-rearing.
Travel plays a significant role in my life, and I share my upcoming trips, mainly related to my work with the NFB. From leadership seminars to state conventions, these journeys are not just about the destinations but the people and experiences along the way.
 Your support and engagement mean the world to me, and I hope this episode has inspired you. Remember, whether participating in a raffle, attending a meeting, or supporting a cause, your involvement makes a difference in the blind community.
Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/257   
Links Mentioned
Support Stacie Leap in her effort to launch a nonprofit to support blind parents: https://www.venmo.com/stacieleap  Buy raffle tickets to support the NFB of PA! Tickets are $5. Email iCantCUPodcast@gmail.com  Find this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU Dr. Carolyn Peters's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49hz1aA  The new BenQ PD3420Q monitor I bought for my new Mac mini: https://amzn.to/4bAcOGv  Support @iCantCU
When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!
White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 096
In episode 096, Lisa and I talk to Dr. Carolyn Peters and Sabrina Rice from the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders. We highlight the importance of recognizing and supporting the achievements of blind black leaders, especially during Black History Month. Our guests share their insights and experiences, contributing to a richer understanding of diversity within the blind community.
Find the podcast on
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
IHeartRadio
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/
YouTube
Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
White Canes Connect On Twitter
Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast
My Podcast Gear
Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.
Zoom Podtrak P4: https://amzn.to/33Ymjkt Zoom ZDM Mic & Headphone Pack: https://amzn.to/33vLn2s Zoom H1n Recorder: https://amzn.to/3zBxJ9O  Gator Frameworks Desk Mounted Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3AjJuBK Shure SM58 S Mic: https://amzn.to/3JOzofg  Sennheiser Headset (1st 162 episodes): https://amzn.to/3fM0Hu0  Follow iCantCU on your favorite podcast directory!
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/icantcu-podcast/id1445801370/ 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nck2D5HgD9ckSaUQaWwW2 
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/iCantCU-Podcast-Podcast/B08JJM26BT 
IHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-icantcu-podcast-31157111/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com