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Available Episodes

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The Blind Drive - Apple Droppings: Aww So Many Droppings
Jeff and Tim treat Apple’s big show like a fun night at the movies, and the take is refreshingly simple. iPhone Air gets ultra thin with 256 gigs standard, while the Pro models flex 48 megapixels and clever software. But for confident blind users, the win isn’t megapixels, it’s brains. Center Stage keeps you framed, dual recording grabs you and the scene at once, and on-device smarts promise better OCR and object recognition. AirPods 3 hold the price, boost sound, add heart rate, and flirt with live translation for easy, bilingual chats. Apple Watch leans into health, sleep, and fast top-ups, with SE keeping it friendly on the wallet. Prices feel steady, choices feel sane, and the event’s audio description shines. Upgrade if it fits your use case; otherwise, a fresh battery and enjoying the moment might be the best feature of all. Full Transcript
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43:48
Woodworking Without Limits: Bob Geyer’s Journey Back to the Shop
What happens when woodworking meets determination, technology, and a supportive community? Meet Bob Geyer, a retired public works professional turned passionate blind woodworker. After losing his sight to retinitis pigmentosa, Bob nearly gave up his tools—until a chance encounter with Woodworking for the Blind (WW4B) at Enchanted Hills Camp changed everything. In this episode, Bob shares how hands-on training, adaptive measuring tools, and accessible technology rekindled his confidence in the shop. From Bluetooth-enabled calipers and talking protractors to clever low-cost hacks like taping screws to boxes, Bob reveals how blind and visually impaired woodworkers innovate every day. Along the way, he reflects on the power of community—friends who troubleshoot projects together, swap tips online, and spark those “aha” moments that save time, energy, and frustration. Whether you’re curious about woodworking or simply love stories of resilience and ingenuity, this conversation will leave you inspired to pick up new tools—and new perspectives. Full Transcript thanks for listening!
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35:57
AI: The Good, the Bad, and the "Oh My"
Artificial Intelligence is everywhere these days, but how do we really use it—and what should we be cautious about? In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff dive into the good, the bad, and the “oh my” moments of working with AI. From brainstorming and sparking ideas to getting quick answers, AI can be a useful tool. But with its benefits come concerns—especially around privacy, accuracy, and safety. The team discusses where AI can be helpful, where it falls short (hint: don’t trust it for navigation yet), and what to keep in mind before sharing personal information. Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes. Show Hosts: Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS Www.transitioningthroughchange.com You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you! thanks for listening!
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17:43
The Blind Drive: Humanness First, Ambassadorship Second
In this opening episode of The Blind Drive, Jeff Thompson, Liz Bottner, and Tim Schwartz get real about “ambassadorship,” authenticity, and living blind life on our own terms. With humor and sharp storytelling—from a “Scarlet Letter B” riff to a crosswalk shove gone wrong—they tackle the tension between educating the public and simply being human, bad days and all. They argue that respect should start with humanness first, that education helps but can’t be forced, and that confidence grows by getting out there: bus rides, ballgames, breakfast spots, and small wins that build community. Practical encouragement and gentle challenges abound—bring a friend, take that first route, learn the skills, and decide when (or if) to teach in the moment. No waiting for perfect tech. This is about motion, mindset, and everyday mastery—today. thanks for sharing and listening. Give us feedback and suggestions at 612-367-6093, we'd love to hear from you! Full Transcript:
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45:01
A Spark for Success: Empowering Youth to Step Into Their Future
In this Blind Abilities podcast, Jeff Thompson speaks with Laila Nachar, the Multiple Systems and Pathways Navigator at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Laila’s new role is all about helping blind and visually impaired students, ages 14 to 21, prepare for their futures by focusing on pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS). She works alongside families, schools, and counselors to ensure students explore careers, gain real-world work experiences, and most importantly develop self-advocacy skills that will last a lifetime. Laila emphasizes that every student’s journey is unique, and her job is to keep the focus on their dreams, not just family expectations. Through job exploration, work-based learning, and advocacy training, she helps students build confidence, discover true interests, and map out meaningful goals. Parents also gain valuable resources to support informed choices. This episode highlights a powerful partnership that empowers youth to take charge of their own future with confidence and independence. To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Full Transcript
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22:59