Blind Abilities podcast | Listen online for free

Available Episodes

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College 101: Student-Powered Advice to Help You Thrive in College
Thinking about college but not sure what it's really like as a blind or low vision student? In this College 101 conversation, transition coordinator Shane DeSantis teams up with Kira and Mohamed, two blind/low vision college students, to break it all down from a student point of view. They talk about choosing a campus that fits you, connecting early with the disability office, and getting the right accommodations in place — from Braille and digital textbooks to private testing rooms, extra time, and note-taking tools like Voice Dream and iPad apps. You'll hear how advocating for yourself, emailing professors, and actually talking to them before or after class can make or break a semester. They also share real talk on time management, learning new tech, O&M training, riding the bus, dealing with homesickness, and finding free-food events and support programs that make campus life more fun and less scary. 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!
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1:14:53
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1:14:53
BITS Has the Solutions: Empowering Blind Tech Users Through Community, Training, and Opportunity
In this Blind Abilities episode, Jeff Thompson talks with Jeff Bishop, president of BITS—Blind Information Technology Specialists—an all-volunteer organization empowering blind and low-vision individuals through accessible technology, community, and hands-on learning. Bishop outlines BITS' rapid growth, affordable memberships, and expanding reach across platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, email lists, and mentoring channels. BITS offers high-impact training, including Python programming, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, NVDA, and AI immersion courses—all with fully accessible materials and strong completion rates. Their partnerships with APH, Bookshare, NLS, Microsoft, and others ensure free resources and meaningful industry feedback opportunities, including paid participation in Microsoft's Project Empower. With free Remote Incident Manager (RIM) support, active mentoring, and a welcoming culture, BITS serves beginners and experts alike. As the group considers rebranding the "S" in BITS to Solutions, the mission remains clear: meeting people where they are and helping them thrive in their digital lives. Link to BITS
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18:32
Wellness Wednesday: What Do We Do for Wellness and Staying on Track
Beth, Robin and Jeff dive into what they personally do to replenish their energy whether it be mental or physical. Listen in as they talk about the practices they incorporate into their routines and daily life. From soothing showers, daily intentions, to checking off virtual lists, and celebrating the accomplishments. 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!
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Orientation and Mobility: Building Confident Independence for Blind and Low Vision Students
Orientation and mobility (O&M) gives blind and low vision students the skills to travel safely, confidently, and independently—at home, at school, and beyond graduation. In this conversation hosted by State Services for the Blind (SSB), O&M specialists Jennifer Pelletier and Abdi Mumin, along with Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis, talk with parents, teachers, and students about what O&M really is: not just cane skills, but problem solving, confidence, and building a mental map of the world. They stress that independence is personal, but expectations should stay high—students can do more than many people assume when given chances to practice. Parents learn practical ways to support independence at home, from chores and finding dropped objects to letting kids lead routes on errands. The episode also highlights tools like tactile maps, campus visits, and Cane Quest, and explains how school-based O&M and SSB can work together to prepare students for college, work, and adult life. 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!
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53:45
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!
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12:18