Blind Abilities

Jeff, Pete, Christina, and Lori gather for a relaxed conversation filled with stories, laughter, and thoughtful reflections. The discussion begins with excitement over the Amadeus Pro beta and the future of audio production on Apple Silicon Macs. From there, each shares memories of mentors and advocates who encouraged independence, informed decision-making, and the attitude of simply doing what needs to be done. The group explores the importance of maintaining connections in both blindness and mainstream communities, appreciating the perspectives each brings. They also talk about everyday accessibility, highlighting simple solutions such as fountains, wind chimes, textured surfaces, and other environmental cues that make life easier. Later, the conversation turns to emerging technology, including smart glasses, Aira, scanning apps, and privacy concerns. Along the way, memories from conventions, podcasting adventures, and a few musical tangents create a fun and engaging conversation among friends.
Major Topics in Chronological Order
Introductions and weather banter.
Amadeus Pro and the new Apple Silicon beta.
Accessibility and the longevity of audio production tools.
Mentors, advocates, and people who shaped their blindness journey.
Attitude, informed choice, and the "just do it" mindset.
Balancing blindness communities with mainstream communities.
Maintaining friendships with both blind and sighted people.
Everyday accessibility and practical low-tech solutions.
Using sound and texture as orientation cues around the home.
Memories from ACB and NFB conventions.
Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses and the future of wearable AI.
Aira integration and hands-free access.
Scanning apps, privacy, and document reading.
Seeing AI improvements and simplified interfaces.
Music, iBUG Today, and closing humor.
Products and Services Discussed at Length
Audio and Podcasting
Amadeus Pro
HairerSoft
Apple Silicon Macs
Wearable Technology
Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
Google AI Glasses (future possibilities)
Rumored Apple Glasses
Accessibility Services
Aira
Aira AI
Reading and Recognition Apps
Voice Dream Scan
Seeing AI
Communities and Organizations
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
American Council of the Blind (ACB)
iBUG Today

In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff explore the value of slowing down and creating space to simply be. Their conversation wanders through topics ranging from technology, noise, and daily stress to the unique experiences of living with vision loss and the mental energy required to navigate the world.
Together, they reflect on the difference between constant doing and intentional being, discussing how quiet moments can provide rest, clarity, and a sense of grounding. They share personal experiences about finding comfort in familiar environments, spending time in nature, listening to birds, walking without distractions, and creating calming spaces at home that encourage relaxation and reflection.
The discussion also touches on the importance of relationships, changing priorities as we grow older, and how our understanding of time evolves throughout life. Through humor, thoughtful insights, and honest conversation, the hosts invite listeners to consider what brings them peace, how they spend their time, and what helps them stay grounded in an increasingly busy world.
 
Join Beth, Robin, and Jeff as they reflect on the importance of creating room for silence, presence, and personal reflection, and discover why sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is simply be.
Full Transcript:
 
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. They are looking forward to hearing from you!
Thanks for listening!

Christina, Lori, and Jeff gather in the Blind Abilities Studio for an honest and engaging conversation about parenting from a blindness perspective. They share their experiences of starting families, raising children, adapting to new challenges, and learning alongside their kids every step of the way.
As they discuss the joys, surprises, and everyday realities of parenthood, one message becomes clear: parenting is less about vision and more about finding practical ways to make life work for your family. Along the way, they discovered opportunities to educate others, challenge misconceptions, and demonstrate that blindness does not define their ability to be loving, capable, and involved parents.
Through personal stories, laughter, and reflection, Christina, Lori, and Jeff offer insight, encouragement, and reassurance for anyone who is raising children, considering parenthood, or simply interested in hearing real-life experiences from blind parents.
Join us for this thoughtful and inspiring conversation.
Leave us your feedback, suggestions, and comments by calling 612-267-6093. We'd love to hear from you.
Thanks for listening.

Jenine Stanley joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to discuss Aira's new Build AI Program, an initiative designed to help shape the future of accessible technology. The program gives Aira users an opportunity to contribute to the development and improvement of AI-powered accessibility tools while continuing to benefit from Aira's professional Visual Interpreters.
Jenine explains how Build AI works, what participation means for users, and the safeguards Aira has put in place to protect privacy. Participation is completely voluntary, users can opt out at any time, and no personally identifiable information is shared with Aira's AI partners. As an added benefit, Build AI participants receive complimentary Aira minutes for the month of June and more opportunities throughout the year.
Tune in to learn how Aira is combining human expertise and emerging artificial intelligence to create new possibilities for blind and low vision users, while keeping accessibility, privacy, and user choice at the center of the conversation.
Learn more about Build AI by visiting Aira's  Frequently Asked Questions
thanks for listening!

Minnesota's first Cane Quest brought together students, families, teachers, orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, and volunteers for a day focused on confidence, independence, and real-world travel skills.
• Students practiced tactile maps, cardinal directions, obstacle detection, stair travel, street crossings, and locating destinations using white cane techniques.
• Activities were designed for different ages, skill levels, and visual abilities, helping students grow through hands-on experiences and peer connections.
• Parents attended informational sessions with experts in orientation and mobility and assistive technology, learning how to better support independence at home and school.
• Volunteers and instructors emphasized allowing students to lead, encouraging confidence and problem-solving skills.
• Paralympian and keynote speaker Max Nelson inspired students with his story of perseverance, independence, and self-confidence.
Cane Quest celebrated more than competition—it highlighted mobility, teamwork, community support, and the belief that blind and visually impaired students can achieve extraordinary goals.
 
- The Minnesota Cane Quest Planning Team
Madi Ericksen, BrightWorks/SparkPath
Colleen Feller, BrightWorks/SparkPath
Jenny Pelletier, State Services for the Blind
Joya Musa, Minneapolis Public Schools
Allison Knigge, Minneapolis Public Schools
 
Links of interests:
The Spectacle Newsletter
Youth Services at SSB
Full Transcript