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. Giving Life His Best Shot: JP Williams on Coaching, Creativity, and Reinvention

    4D AGO

    Giving Life His Best Shot: JP Williams on Coaching, Creativity, and Reinvention

    In episode 141 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein speak with JP Williams, a blind mental health and life coach based in Nashville. Originally a successful country songwriter—co-writing the hit “Best Shot” by Jimmie Allen—JP shares how he transitioned from the music industry into coaching. After decades in music, a career pivot during the pandemic led him to become certified through the International Coach Federation and begin work with Lyra Health, coaching employees from Fortune 500 companies on issues ranging from career transitions and relationships to parenting and goal setting. What sets this conversation apart is how blindness plays only a small, though empowering, role in JP’s journey. He emphasizes that coaching is a blind-friendly profession—relying more on listening and intuition than visual cues—and shares how his clients often feel inspired by his life experience. JP breaks down the difference between therapy and coaching, stresses the importance of proper certification, and underscores that real growth happens when clients are seen as creative, resourceful, and whole. He also offers free discovery calls for those interested in coaching and encourages self-investment and adaptability in an ever-changing world. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/141     Links Mentioned Learn more about JP Williams at https://www.jpwilliams.net/  Listen to Best Shot by Jimmy Allen: https://open.spotify.com/track/3eDNb3ZG3gKgjAAgJBcOL8  Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  Listen to episodes on our website: https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/.  An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    53 min
  2. Charting Your Course, Finding Your Fit at the Mid-Atlantic Student Seminar

    JUL 24

    Charting Your Course, Finding Your Fit at the Mid-Atlantic Student Seminar

    The National Association of Blind Students (NABS) is an active, thriving division of the National Federation of the Blind. In addition to extensive programming at National Convention, Washington Seminar, and virtual opportunities, the division hosts two student seminars each year in two areas of the country, tailoring content to a specific geographical audience. In this episode, Zachary Ledford joins Simon Bonenfant to discuss the upcoming Mid-Atlantic seminar, taking place from Friday, August 1st to Sunday, August 3rd at the Hampton Inn Center City Philadelphia. 1301 Race Street, Philadelphia. Zachary shares some of the many impactful opportunities for attendees, his personal journey as a leader in the federation, and how you can get involved! Interested in learning more and registering? Visit the registration page here: https://nabslink.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=6 For additional questions, contact Zachary Ledford, seminar chair, by emailing ledford.zachary38@gmail.com Interested in learning more about what the National Association of Blind Students can do for you? Visit their website at: www.nabslink.org If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love to hear from you! Have you attended a student seminar in the past or planning to attend Mid-Atlantic? Give us a call at: 267-338-4495, or send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com Additional show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com//140/.

    24 min
  3. Creating Opportunity Through Accessibility with Tanner Gers

    JUL 6

    Creating Opportunity Through Accessibility with Tanner Gers

    In this powerful episode of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome Tanner Gers, founder of Access Ability Officer and Paralympian, for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Tanner shares the harrowing story of how a tragic car accident in 2004 left him totally blind—and how that life-changing event became the catalyst for a purpose-driven career in accessibility, advocacy, and entrepreneurship. Tanner discusses the evolution of Access Ability Officer. This digital accessibility consultancy not only works with government and corporate clients but also trains and hires blind professionals through its Certified Accessibility Tester (CAT) program. This rigorous 14-week training course equips screen reader users with the technical and professional skills needed to land paid work and even launch their own businesses in the booming accessibility space. The conversation touches on AI’s role in the future of accessibility, the importance of inclusive design, and the potential for digital equity. Tanner also shares his love for beep baseball and why adaptive sports are essential for physical and emotional well-being. Whether you’re an aspiring accessibility tester, advocate, or entrepreneur, this episode is filled with actionable insights and motivation. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/139   Links Mentioned Learn more about Access Ability Officer: https://accessabilityofficer.com/  Tanner Gers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tannergers/  NABS Mid-Atlantic Student Seminar: https://nabslink.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=6  Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  Tanner Gers and Access Ability Officer at National Convention Access Ability Officer is at table B25 in the Exhibit Hall. Start a Digital Accessibility Business session is in Studio 7 Wednesday, July 9 from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM Accessibility Jeopardy in Studio 2 on Thursday, July 10 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Mid-Atlantic Student Seminar August 1 - 3 in Philadelphia The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania is proud to support the National Association of Blind Students Mid-Atlantic Seminar taking place from August 1 through August 3 at the Hampton Inn at 1301 Race Street in Philadelphia. Register at https://nabslink.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=6. All of the hotel info is on that page. An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    46 min
  4. Shawn Callaway and NOBBL’s National Impact

    JUN 27

    Shawn Callaway and NOBBL’s National Impact

    In Episode 138 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome back Shawn Callaway, President of both the National Federation of the Blind of the District of Columbia and the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders (NOBBL). Shawn shares updates on NOBBL’s growth, programming, and plans for the upcoming National Convention in New Orleans. He reflects on the organization’s journey from its roots in the DEI Committee in 2018 to its official division status in 2022. Shawn highlights NOBBL’s active committees, including groups for Black women, men, seniors, elected leaders, and HBCU outreach. He emphasizes NOBBL’s mission to create space for Black blind voices within both the Federation and the broader community, building partnerships with groups like the National Council of Negro Women and launching their first national convention community service project. The conversation also touches on NOBBL’s role in supporting Black blind students through scholarships, mentoring first-time convention attendees, and building leadership pipelines for the future. With over 150 active members and packed convention meetings, NOBBL continues to grow and push for greater visibility and inclusion. Shawn closes with a tease of something big coming in 2026—and a friendly rivalry with Eagles fans. The NOBBLmeeting at National Convention is Thursday at 6:00 PM CDT in Gallery 5. Use the #NFB25 app for any last minute changes and to create your own schedule at convention. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/138  Links Mentioned Interested in joining NOBBL? Email diversity@nfb.org for more information Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  Women Healed For A Purpose Author Cirde Join WHFAP "She Writes" panel discussion & bits and pieces from the panelist's work. July 5, 2025 / 11:00am-1:00pm Park Towers Community Room 4001 Conshohocken Ave., Phila., PA 19131 (you know the place). Invite others and share the information please.  Panelists are: RuNett Nia Ebo - Poet Michele A. Vann Rebecca Rush Delvia Berrian Mary Washam Click here to register: https://forms.gle/bZntyTf9mMZk9Wnu7 Registration is free  An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    33 min
  5. Inside NFB Convention Prep with John Berggren

    JUN 13

    Inside NFB Convention Prep with John Berggren

    In Episode 137 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome John Berggren, Executive Director for Operations at the National Federation of the Blind. With just weeks to go before the 2025 national convention in New Orleans, John offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to coordinate the Federation’s biggest annual event. From humble beginnings in 1999 building NFB-NEWSLINE® boxes to now orchestrating logistics for thousands of attendees, John shares how the convention has grown in scale, complexity, and impact. He talks about the thoughtful planning that starts years in advance—securing venues, negotiating hotel rates, and adapting to evolving technology like AI and indoor navigation tools. John also discusses what makes New Orleans a strong host city, previews some exciting programming, and reflects on past conventions, including setting a world record in 2015. This episode is more than a logistical rundown—it’s a tribute to community, adaptability, and leadership. Whether you're attending in person or virtually, John’s calm yet commanding presence underscores how much heart goes into making every convention unforgettable. If you’re on the fence about going, this conversation might be the nudge you need. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/137         Links Mentioned Everything you need to know about the 2025 NFB National Convention: https://www.nfb.org/convention  Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    1h 5m
  6. Vision and Justice: The Story of Judge David Tatel

    JUN 5

    Vision and Justice: The Story of Judge David Tatel

    In Episode 136 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome retired Judge David Tatel, author of Vision: A Memoir of Blindness and Justice. Judge Tatel reflects on his remarkable legal career—most notably, three decades on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit—while offering an unflinching look at his personal struggle with blindness caused by retinitis pigmentosa. Tatel shares how he spent most of his life downplaying or hiding his vision loss, even removing mentions from public records and press materials. It wasn’t until his eighties, and through the process of writing Vision, that he fully embraced blindness as part of his identity. The conversation dives into his legal philosophy, his path from science to civil rights law, and the tools—both human and technological—that helped him succeed as a judge who is blind. The memoir is more than a professional journey; it’s also a deeply personal story of resilience, love, and self-acceptance. Listeners will hear about Tatel’s guide dog Vixen, his enduring partnership with his wife Edie, and his evolving fight for justice. It's a compelling episode about truth, advocacy, and the power of living fully seen. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/136        Links Mentioned Get the book! It is available many places, including BARD, but here is the link at Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/4dZy61J  Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    47 min
  7. Blind Birders Birdathon Breaks Barriers Nationwide

    MAY 15

    Blind Birders Birdathon Breaks Barriers Nationwide

    In Episode 135 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome Martha Steele and Natanya Sortland to spotlight the inaugural Blind Birders Birdathon happening May 18, 2025. This nationwide event invites blind and visually impaired individuals to identify birds by sound during a flexible two-hour window within a 24-hour period. No birding experience required—just a love of listening. Martha, a lifelong birder from Massachusetts, was inspired by an article about a blind bird guide and helped launch the event to build community and highlight that birding is, above all, an auditory experience. Natanya, an ambassador for VisionCorps and a self-described "bird-loving beginner," is leading a group walk in Malvern, PA at Brightside Farm, with expert Rick Kaiser guiding participants through the art of bird song recognition. Supported by Birdability and fueled by grassroots passion, the Birdathon already has 160+ registered participants. Everyone who registers is eligible for a prize drawing that includes birding gear, books, and even a guided birding tour. The event is open to anyone blind or low vision—and yes, even sighted allies are welcome to join the fun. Register at https://www.birdability.org/blind-birder-birdathon and be part of this first-of-its-kind movement. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/135         Links Mentioned Want to join Natanya’s group in Malvern on May 18? Reach out to her at natanyasortland@gmail.com. Have questions about the Birdathon? Contact Martha at marthajs@gmail.com. Attend Spring Fling Blind Vendor Showcase: https://www.pablindmerchants.org/fling/  Exhibit at Spring Fling (sorry, blind & low vision vendors only): https://www.pablindmerchants.org/exhibit/  Sponsor the Spring Fling Blind Vendor Showcase: https://www.pablindmerchants.org/sponsor/  Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    49 min
  8. Inside the Blind Vendor Showcase with Pam Baquero

    MAY 9

    Inside the Blind Vendor Showcase with Pam Baquero

    In Episode 134 of White Canes Connect, host David Goldstein is joined by Pam Baquero, President of the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants, for a lively preview of the upcoming Spring Fling Blind Vendor Showcase, taking place May 17 at the Best Western Premier in Harrisburg. This high-energy event celebrates blind entrepreneurship with food, music, raffles, and a marketplace of blind and visually impaired vendors from across the region. Pam details the schedule—4 PM to 10 PM—and teases the delicious hors d’oeuvres (yes, including Guinness beef) and live DJ. Guests can expect auctions featuring items like a $379 cocktail maker, a web design package valued at $2,500, and a $250 Best Western gift card. Vendor tables are $50, tickets are $25, and sponsorships start at $50. The event supports blind business owners, including those in and outside the Business Enterprise Program (BEP), and is open to the public. Pam also shares updates on BEP training relaunches and reiterates the need for visibility, education, and support within the blind entrepreneur community. Whether you’re blind, sighted, curious, or just want a solid quesadilla—Spring Fling welcomes you. Visit https://www.pablindmerchants.org/spring-fling/  for details. Bring friends. Bring cash. Bring your appetite. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/134        Links Mentioned Attend Spring Fling Blind Vendor Showcase: https://www.pablindmerchants.org/fling/  Exhibit at Spring Fling (sorry, blind & low vision vendors only): https://www.pablindmerchants.org/exhibit/  Sponsor the Spring Fling Blind Vendor Showcase: https://www.pablindmerchants.org/sponsor/  Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/  An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked at #13 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

    25 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    139
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    White Canes Connect