Blind Abilities Podcast

What can happen when you say yes to something new? University of Minnesota engineering student Samantha "Sam" Betts shares how stepping onto the ice with Minnesota Blind Hockey opened the door to competition, confidence and community. Born with congenital cataracts and living with glaucoma and peripheral vision loss, Sam had never played—or even watched—hockey before her first practice. Weeks later, she traveled to Chicago, learned her position on the fly and scored her first goal. Sam also reflects on navigating college, choosing engineering, connecting with disability services and receiving technology and support from Minnesota State Services for the Blind. Her advice to students is simple: get involved, connect and give unfamiliar opportunities a chance. Whether you are preparing for college, searching for community or wondering if adaptive sports are for you, Sam's story may inspire you to leave your comfort zone and discover what is waiting on the other side.   Links of Interests: Minnesota Blind Hockey

What does a career path really look like? At the Career Exploration Adventure Weekend at Cragun's Resort in Brainerd, Minnesota, blind, visually impaired, and DeafBlind students got the chance to ask working professionals the questions that matter when you're thinking about your future. In this lively careers panel, professionals from technology, accounting, human resources, education, hospitality, and library services share how they found their careers—sometimes by following a plan and sometimes by taking an unexpected turn. They talk about mentors, education, on-the-job learning, setbacks, work-life balance, building confidence, and why making mistakes can be an important part of moving forward. Students also ask about workplace accommodations and what employers can do to help blind and low-vision employees succeed. For students, parents, and educators, this conversation is a reminder that there is no single road to a meaningful career—just opportunities to explore, learn, adapt, and keep moving forward. Li

Sometimes the hardest person to give credit to is ourselves. We can become so focused on where we're going—or where we think we should be—that we overlook just how far we've already come. In this Wellness Wednesday conversation, Robin, Beth and Jeff explore the importance of recognizing our accomplishments, giving ourselves permission to change our goals, and remembering that we deserve to be in the spaces we've worked so hard to reach. Progress doesn't always arrive with something tangible we can point to. Sometimes it happens quietly, one small step at a time. From breaking larger ambitions into achievable SMART goals to simply allowing yourself to "toot your own horn," this conversation is a reminder to ease up on the self-criticism and acknowledge the journey. Your destination may change along the way—and sometimes, what you discover there may be even better than what you originally imagined.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:                   Robin Ennis on the web at www.ro

What happens when career exploration meets lakeside adventure? At State Services for the Blind's first Career Exploration Adventure Weekend at Cragun's Resort, blind, low-vision, and DeafBlind students from across Minnesota discovered possibilities, practiced independence, and built friendships. Randi Lasher shares how the three-day event combined customized job shadowing, a career panel, orientation and mobility activities, buffet navigation, networking, and time to connect with peers. Students Sophia and Riley offer candid perspectives on exploring careers, preparing for college, managing busy schedules, and learning to advocate for their futures. Their message to students is simple: you do not need your career figured out, but now is the time to start exploring. For parents, Riley offers an equally important reminder—create opportunities, encourage independence, and never let limited expectations diminish motivation. Hear how one weekend helped students gain confidence, clarify goals, and imagine what may

In this Wellness Wednesday episode, Beth, Robin, and Jeff explore the similarities between adjusting to vision loss and navigating the changes that come with aging. Whether it's losing abilities we once relied on, watching support systems change, or simply realizing that life doesn't work quite the way it used to, acceptance can be a slow and ongoing process. The changes are real, and adjusting to them takes time. Together, Beth, Robin, and Jeff reflect on what it means to acknowledge these changes while continuing to grow and move forward. Life may look different than it did before, but with time, we learn to adapt, discover new ways of doing things, and find meaning in where we are today. After all, life is a continuous journey. The path may change, but we keep moving forward.   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                   Ww

What happens when students, families, and volunteers come together with one goal—helping Minnesota kids?   Join State Services for the Blind Pre-ETS students , Staff and family members, at Every Meal in Roseville, Minnesota, for an energetic afternoon of teamwork, conversation, and community service. Working side by side in fast-moving assembly lines, 42 volunteers packed more than 15,000 meals in less than an hour and a half. Those meals will help provide food for children who may rely on school meals during the week but face food insecurity over the weekend.   Students share what it was like to try something new, meet people, build confidence, and discover just how accessible volunteering can be. You'll hear the sounds of the packing lines, plenty of laughter, and reflections from students, families, SSB Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis, and Every Meal Volunteer Coordinator Liam.   It's community service with an impact you can hear—and feel.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services

If you're heading to college and wondering how to turn an interest into a career, Dawson Haag's story is one you won't want to miss. A sports management student at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, Dawson shares how internships with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and the Minot Hot Tots gave him hands-on experience behind the scenes of baseball, from stadium operations to creating unforgettable fan experiences. He explains how networking, LinkedIn, Teamwork Online, and support from State Services for the Blind helped him land opportunities, succeed in college, and build confidence. Dawson also discusses accommodations, assistive technology, balancing internships with coursework, and the value of taking initiative—including founding his university's Cornhole Club from scratch. Whether your dream is in sports or another field, this conversation is packed with practical advice, encouragement, and proof that sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you create yourself.   Links from this episode: Official

The Blind Abilities team reunites for a wide-ranging conversation about how hobbies, learning, technology, and relationships shape daily life. Jeff, Pete, Christina, and returning guest Callie share how Braille practice, woodworking, gardening, music, audiobooks, book clubs, podcasting, and learning new technology keep their minds active and create purpose. The group compares favorite reading sources, immersive audiobooks, classic books, and the occasional danger of missing an exit while listening to a great story. They also debate smart homes versus reliable buttons, knobs, keys, and appliances that have survived longer than some friendships. Food enters the discussion through air-fryer grilled cheese, pesto, egg muffins, oatmeal, and other hunger-inducing ideas. The conversation becomes more reflective as Callie asks whether travel can still feel meaningful after vision loss. The team discusses grief, adaptation, tactile experiences, audio description, tour guides, friendship, and finding new forms of joy w

State Services for the Blind has an exciting lineup of opportunities designed to help blind and low vision students build confidence, make friends, and develop real-world skills throughout the summer and fall. In this episode, Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis and Peer Ambassadors Ava and Preston share upcoming events, including visits to the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind summer program, a volunteer evening with Every Meal, presentations at the ECC summer camp, an accessible camping adventure with Wilderness Inquiry, a canoe trip on the Mississippi River, and a fall technology workshop focused on college and career success. Along the way, they explain how these activities encourage independence, teamwork, leadership, and community involvement while creating meaningful connections with other students who share similar experiences. They also invite students to help shape future activities by sharing their ideas and interests, making this episode both an update on upcoming events and an invitation to

Jeff Thompson welcomes Sree Roy back to Blind Abilities for a conversation that begins with rising technology costs and quickly evolves into something much deeper. They discuss Apple's price increases, AI subscriptions, and how accessibility technology is becoming more expensive for everyone. From there, the conversation turns to the gradual experience of vision loss and the emotional adjustments that accompany it. Jeff shares how subtle changes in his own vision have made organization, workflow, and daily routines more important than ever, while Sree reflects on his journey from fear to confidence after losing his sight. Together they explore the value of taking small steps, learning new skills early, leaning on the blindness community, and celebrating everyday accomplishments. Whether discussing VoiceOver, organizing a workshop, or simply finding the kitchen sink, this episode reminds listeners that blindness is not about giving things up—it's about discovering new ways to keep moving forward, one step at a

This episode offers an inside look at the rewarding role of a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota through the journey of Lindsay Escalera. From an undecided college student to a passionate rehabilitation professional, Lindsay shares how hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a desire to help others shaped her career. She explains how counselors guide students and adults through career planning, adjustment to blindness training, assistive technology, college, trades, and employment, all supported by a collaborative team of specialists. Lindsay also reflects on participating in Minnesota's immersive Adjustment to Blindness training, describing how the experience gave her a deeper understanding of the challenges, emotions, and successes that blind individuals experience. Whether you're a teacher, rehabilitation professional, student exploring a meaningful career, or someone interested in the services available through State Services for the Blind, this conversation hig

In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson welcomes Sarina Boley, a Vocational Rehabilitation Technician at State Services for the Blind, to share her journey into the world of Vocational Rehabilitation and Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). Sarina explains how VR Technicians support counselors behind the scenes while helping students prepare for employment, college, and independent adulthood. She reflects on her immersive Adjustment to Blindness Training, discovering a new appreciation for Braille, assistive technology, orientation and mobility, and the many services available to blind and low vision Minnesotans. Sarina also discusses her educational path, her goal of becoming a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, and the value of learning while working directly with students. Whether you're a student exploring future careers, a teacher of the blind, or a rehabilitation professional, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the people, training, and dedication that help open doors to

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 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 sp

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

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

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,

 This episode of Wellness Wednesday returns with an open and heartfelt conversation in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, focusing on the importance of community and connection. Hosts Beth Gustin, Robin Ennis, and Jeff Thompson reflect on how community can support emotional well-being, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide encouragement during life's struggles. Robin shares personal experiences from her doctoral journey as a blind student, while the discussion explores identity, belonging, loneliness, and the value of finding people who truly understand and support you. The episode gently challenges myths around mental health and reminds listeners that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether through friendships, support groups, hobbies, or online spaces, the conversation encourages listeners to start small, stay curious, and seek meaningful connections that nurture mental health and personal growth. Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             R

Career Climb is more than a weekend workshop—it's a launchpad for blind and low vision students to explore careers, strengthen independence, and build confidence for the future. Through hands-on activities in self-discovery, budgeting, resumes, LinkedIn, interviewing, networking, and self-advocacy, students learn not just how to find a job, but how to build a life with purpose. What makes Career Climb unique is its focus on process: students develop tools they can return to throughout their lives whenever they face a new opportunity or transition. Parents will appreciate seeing their students grow in confidence and leadership. Teachers will value the practical career-readiness and self-determination skills reinforced throughout the weekend. Students gain peer support, individualized coaching, and a roadmap for turning aspirations into action. From elevator pitches to mock interviews and follow-up coaching, Career Climb plants seeds of ambition, preparation, and possibility for a stronger future. Related Links

Across the country, students who are blind, deafBlind, or low vision are asking big questions about their future—and in Minnesota, those questions are turning into real opportunities. In this episode of Blind Abilities, we explore how Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) through State Services for the Blind are helping students move from uncertainty to action. Through hands-on experiences like summer programs, outdoor adventures, career exploration, and workplace training, students build independence, confidence, and real-world skills.   From canoeing and snowshoeing to job fairs and mentorship from blind professionals, these experiences go beyond the classroom and into everyday life. Students also gain access to assistive technology and learn the critical skill of self-advocacy—tools that last a lifetime.   This episode offers an inspiring look at what happens when students are given the space, support, and opportunity to explore their potential—and begin building the future they imagine.   Links of