Blind Abilities podcast | Listen online for free

Available Episodes

5 of 526

Step Up, Dive In, Play On: Exploring Adaptive Sports and Community
From the Minnesota State Capitol to the halls of the Department of Transportation, White Cane Day 2025 shined a light on independence, confidence, and community. Jeff Thompson takes listeners inside a vibrant gathering of blind athletes, adventurers, and advocates who prove that anything is possible when you step out and give it a try. From sailing the waves with Twin Cities Blind Sailing to hitting the ice with the Minnesota Wild Blind Hockey Team, throwing darts, bowling, and even playing beep baseball—there's truly something for everyone. These programs aren't just sports; they're pathways to connection, growth, and fun. So whether you've been curious about adaptive recreation or just want to meet others who share your spirit of adventure, this episode invites you to test the waters—because independence starts with taking that first step. Useful Links: Twin Cities Blind Sailing U.S. Blind Sailing Association Minnesota Wild Blind Hockey Twin Cities Blind Audio Dart League Minnesota Millers Beep Baseball Team Minnesota Millers Email [email protected] 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: thanks for listening!
--------
12:18
--------
12:18
Wellness Wednesday: Navigating Todays Job Market with Wellness and Confidence
In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, Robin Ennis and Jeff Thompson talk about employment and the many aspects of looking for a job. They discuss how to prepare for interviews, what challenges job seekers face today, and how to stay motivated throughout the process. The conversation also touches on how artificial intelligence is changing the way applications are reviewed and how you can position yourself for success in this new landscape. Listeners are encouraged to share their own thoughts and experiences by calling 612-367-6093. The Wellness Wednesday team would love to hear from you. 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
--------
29:27
--------
29:27
The Blind Drive: From Federal Cuts to New Tech: Apple, Aira, and the Shifting Road Ahead for the Blind Drive
The Blind Drive puts you in the passenger seat with Jeff Thompson and Tim Schwartz as they run down what's shaping life for blind and low vision people right now. From federal cuts hitting the Rehabilitation Services Administration to new pressure in Iowa over blind Iowans' right to keep their shades on (or off), the landscape is shifting fast. We dig into accessibility on the ground — including Target's move on self-checkout — and in your hand, with India distributing smart glasses and Apple cracking the door wider for third-party accessible tech. We talk White Cane Day, not as a hashtag moment but as safety, identity, and independence. And yes, AI is everywhere… but when you really need answers, is a human solution like Aira still the gold standard? Buckle up and call in with your thoughts at 612-367-6093. We would love to hear from you! Useful Links • ACB on RSA Layoffs • Iowa Public Radio: Blind Iowans Protest Training Changes • Target's Accessible Self-Checkout Rollout • AI Glasses for Students – Times of India • Apple's Latest Accessibility Features Thanks for listening.
--------
39:58
--------
39:58
Minnesota Honors White Cane Day: Safety, Freedom, and a Future Without Limits
White Cane Day 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol was a celebration of pride, freedom, and possibility. Leaders, students, families, and blind, low vision, and deafblind Minnesotans gathered to affirm a simple truth: the white cane is not just a mobility tool — it is dignity, safety, and independence. Speakers honored the history of White Cane Safety Day, first recognized nationally in 1964, and reminded Minnesota that accessibility is a responsibility we all share. Youth and adults stood side by side to read the Governor's proclamation declaring October 15, 2025 White Cane Safety Awareness Day in Minnesota, lifting up the right of every person to travel, work, learn, and live fully. Again and again the message was clear: this community is strong, joyful, and on the move. The white cane is confidence. It is opportunity. It is the key to adventure, employment, and everyday life — and it belongs in every space Minnesotans belong. 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 thanks for Listening!
--------
27:40
--------
27:40
The Blind Drive: Beyond Compliance: Why Accessibility Must Be Usable to Be Real - Compliance Is for Lawyers—Usability Is for Humans
In this episode of The Blind Drive, Jeff Thompson and Tim Schwartz dig into the heart of something far bigger than a news headline—it's about access, equity, and the right to fully participate in life. A recent class action lawsuit filed against DraftKings for failing to make its sports betting platform accessible to blind users sparks a deeper conversation. This isn't a show about gambling—it's a show about accountability. Jeff and Tim explore the critical difference between accessibility and usability, calling out how too many companies chase legal compliance while ignoring real human experience. Accessibility laws like the ADA, Section 508, and WCAG 2.1 create a baseline—but people who are blind live beyond baselines. They demand tools that actually work in real life. The hosts also share trusted resources—from tech newsletters to accessibility podcasts—built by people who walk the talk. This episode challenges listeners to push past compliance and fight for true usability. No waiting. Do it today. Links from the show: Draft Kings lawsuit Top Tech Tidbits Freedom Scientific Training Podcast iBug Buzz Podcast Blind Level tech Unnute Podcast Network Give feedback at 612-367-6093, love to hear from you! Thanks for listening!
--------
29:40
--------
29:40