Nation’s Blind Podcast The National Federation of the Blind

In this episode of the Nation's Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by Marinela “Mari” Ortiz, an assistive technology instructor and writer. Mari shares her journey of pursuing her master's degree in assistive technology, including the challenges she faced at one university and her subsequent success at another. The discussion addresses topics including the importance of mentors and support systems in overcoming doubts and achieving goals and the value of meeting individuals where they are and helping them discover their own potential.
 
Important links:
Not Letting the Flood of Doubt Win (HTML)Not Letting the Flood of Doubt Win(MP3)by Marinela Ortiz (Braille Monitor, February 2024)
Episode transcript: https://nfb.org/resources/publications-and-media/nations-blind-podcast/archive/not-letting-flood-doubt-win
 

In this episode of the Nation's Blind Podcast, Anil, Melissa, and Chris Danielsen discuss the upcoming Washington Seminar of the National Federation of the Blind. They talk about their memories of past seminars and the importance of advocacy, as well as the issues that will be addressed during the seminar, including Social Security reform, accessible medical equipment, and website and software accessibility. They emphasize the power of personal stories in influencing legislators and encourage listeners to get involved in advocacy efforts.
 
Important Links:
NFB Washington Seminar Page: https://nfb.org/washington-seminar
 

In this episode of the Nation's Blind Podcast, Anil and Melissa are joined by Gary Wunder, editor of the Braille Monitor, and Aaron Cannon, a blind accessibility specialist for Ancestry.com. They discuss the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of life, with feedback from listeners incorporated into the conversation. The discussion touches on AI tools such as Be My AI and ChatGPT, their benefits and limitations, and the broader implications of AI for the blind community and for society. Your thoughts are welcome on social media and at podcast@nfb.org or by calling 410-659-9314, extension 2444.
 
Important links:
National Federation of the Blind Resolution 2023-13 Regarding Artificial Intelligence Chatbots and their Information on Blindness: https://nfb.org/resources/speeches-and-reports/resolutions/2023-resolutions#13
Large language model (Wikipedia entry): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_language_model
 “There Will Come Soft Rains,” short story by Ray Bradbury about an automated house (Wikipedia entry with plot summary): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/There_Will_Come_Soft_Rains_(short_story)
 

In this episode of the Nation's Blind Podcast, Melissa Riccobono and Anil Lewis discuss various shopping strategies that blind people use, both in stores and virtually, and some of the pros and cons of each method. Shopping methods discussed include using apps like Instacart, Shipt, and more, as well as acquiring assistance from Aira and Be My Eyes. Join the discussion by sharing your own strategies and tips for possible airing on a future episode!

In this episode of the Nation's Blind Podcast, Anil Lewis and Chris Danielsen introduce the 2023/2024 Braille Readers Are Leaders contest, which is a project of the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults, a longtime partner of the National Federation of the Blind. Lisamaria Martinez, the project manager for the program, joins them to provide more details. They encourage listeners to sign up, practice their Braille skills at whatever level for a chance to win exciting prizes, and explore the benefits  of Braille literacy.
 
Important links:
Register for the contest: https://actionfund.beanstack.com
Learn more: https://actionfund.org
 

In this episode of the Nation's Blind Podcast, Melissa Riccobono and Chris Danielsen discuss Veterans Day and the role of veterans in the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). They are joined by Dr. Vernon Humphrey, the president of the National Association of Blind Veterans (NABV), a division of the National Federation of the Blind; and José Centeno, a blind veteran, marathon runner, and member of the NABV. They discuss the work of the NABV in supporting blind veterans and advocating for their rights and benefits. They also talk about the importance of raising awareness about blindness and the resources available to blind veterans. The podcast highlights the contributions of blind veterans and the ways in which they have paved the way for advancements in rehabilitation. The guests share personal stories and experiences, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and support within the blind veteran community. They also discuss the need for continued advocacy and outreach to blind veterans, as well as the potential for more collaboration between the National Federation of the Blind and other veterans' agencies and organizations. CW: Mental health issues and suicide are mentioned in this episode. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
 
Important links:
National association of Blind Veterans website: https://nabv.org
News item about José Centeno’s marathon run: https://www.wdtn.com/news/local-news/blind-veteran-to-run-in-xenia-marathon-alongside-optometrist/