Navigating Life with Vision Loss

Sports 311: Move Where You Are: Accessible Fitness with Jared Ciner

Aftersight — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0600

1. Episode Summary

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes Jared Ciner from Spirit Club for a grounded, encouraging conversation about accessible fitness, movement, and the importance of starting where you are. As part of Aftersight’s 16-week sports series, this conversation focuses less on becoming an elite athlete and more on the simple but powerful truth that every person can move in a way that supports their body, confidence, independence, and long-term health.

Jared explains Spirit Club’s mission to create fitness opportunities where people of all abilities feel comfortable, supported, and capable. He and Kim talk about the barriers many people face when beginning exercise, especially those who are blind or have low vision, including lack of confidence, fear of the gym, unclear instruction, transportation challenges, and the need for adaptive support.

A major theme of the episode is that movement should be functional, meaningful, and connected to real life. Jared shares practical examples of accessible fitness, such as using a chair to teach squats, tactile cues to guide stretching, and verbal descriptions that are clear without being overwhelming. He also explains why exercise is not just about muscles or weight loss, but about staying able to do the things that matter—getting out of a chair, playing with children or grandchildren, gardening, building friendships, staying mentally healthy, and remaining connected to community.

The conversation also highlights the emotional and social side of fitness. Jared talks about how sports, group classes, adapted workouts, and community-based programs can help people build confidence, find friendships, and discover joy in movement. He shares examples from Spirit Club, including trainers and athletes with disabilities who are leading, competing, teaching, and helping others see what is possible.

Kim closes the episode by encouraging listeners in the Denver metro area to consider joining Aftersight’s Cane’s Tales and Trails event at Cherry Creek State Park on May 30, in partnership with Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind. The episode ends with a simple but strong invitation: movement is broad, accessible, and worth trying.

2. Contact Info

Guest / Organization:
Jared Ciner
Spirit Club
Website: spiritclub.com

Aftersight:
Website: aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org

Event Mentioned:
Cane’s Tales and Trails
May 30 at Cherry Creek State Park
Presented by Aftersight in partnership with Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind
Registration and donation information: aftersight.org

Producer Contact:
Jonathan Price
Podcast and Program Producer, Aftersight
jonathan@aftersight.org

3. Show Credits

Navigating Life with Vision Loss is brought to you by Aftersight.

Hosted by Kim Wardlow.
Guest: Jared Ciner from Spirit Club.
Produced by Jonathan Price.

Thank you for listening to Navigating Life with Vision Loss, helping you navigate your life with vision loss.

(00:02) - — Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
(01:52) - — What Spirit Club Is All About
(02:39) - — Why Movement Matters
(06:40) - — Movement, Sports, and Social Connection
(07:07) - — Barriers to Getting Started
(10:16) - — What Accessible Fitness Can Look Like
(11:17) - — Physical Access, Clear Instruction, and Motivation
(16:04) - — Tactile Cues and Chair-Based Movement
(19:32) - — Form, Safety, and Real-Life Function
(22:46) - — Standing Strength and Everyday Movement
(24:39) - — Making Fitness Fun and Sustainable
(27:40) - — Moving Beyond Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Labels
(32:09) - — Local Clubs, Community Spaces, and Online Options
(32:58) - — Why Community-Based Fitness Matters
(37:48) - — From Recreation to Competitive Goals
(38:50) - — Athletes and Trainers with Disabilities Leading the Way
(41:59) - — Encouragement for Anyone Starting Over
(45:09) - — How to Find Spirit Club
(45:25) - — Cane’s Tales and Trails and Closing Encouragement

Sports 310: Women in Motion: Blindness, Courage, and the Fight to Belong in Sports

Aftersight — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0600

1) Episode Summary

In this powerful panel conversation, Kim Wardlow brings together Shawn Cheshire, Penn Street, and Christine Holmberg for an honest discussion about women in sports, blindness, access, fear, courage, and what it really takes to create opportunity. The episode starts with a clear challenge: blind women in sports should not be treated like a separate afterthought, but as athletes worthy of equal respect, visibility, and opportunity.

From there, the conversation digs into the real barriers—lack of inclusion in mainstream sports culture, limited development pathways, the cost of adaptive competition, and the ongoing struggle to find qualified guides and pilots who are treated like true teammates. The panel also explores how access begins young, why adaptive programs matter so much, and how blind kids need examples, mentors, and room to fail, grow, and discover what is possible.

What makes this episode especially strong is that it does not stay theoretical. Shawn shares hard-earned perspective from elite-level competition. Penn speaks with clarity about discrimination, courage, and the need to keep moving even when fear is still present. Christine brings practical insight from years of building opportunities through Foresight and helping blind youth experience skiing, summer camps, and outdoor adventure. By the end, the message is simple and compelling: stop asking whether blind people can do something and start asking what they want to do—and then help build the path.

2) Contact Info

Guests / Organizations
Shawn Cheshire — Paralympian, extreme endurance athlete, and co-founder of Choosing to See
Penn Street — Host of The Blind Chick and Aftersight personality
Christine Holmberg — Executive Director, Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind

Organizations / Events Mentioned
Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind — summer youth camps in Vail Valley, June 22–24 and July 13–15
Aftersight + Foresight fundraiser walk — May 30 at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Aftersight annual hike with No Barriers USA — September 12 at Winter Park

Aftersight Contact
feedback@aftersight.org
(720) 712-8856

Producer Credits
Produced by Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight

3) Show Credits

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guests: Shawn Cheshire, Penn Street, Christine Holmberg
Producer: Jonathan Price
Network: Aftersight

Sports 309: Track and Field with Lex Gillette

Aftersight — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0600

1) Episode Summary

In this episode, Kim Wardlow welcomes Paralympian Lex Gillette for a clear and highly practical conversation on how track and field works for blind and low-vision athletes. They break down the difference between track and field events, explain T11, T12, and T13 classifications, and walk listeners through the real mechanics of accessibility in the sport: blindfold rules, guide runners, tethers, verbal cueing, and the trust it takes to compete at a high level. The conversation also gives a vivid picture of what it feels like to be in the blocks, on the runway, and in motion, while reinforcing a bigger message that movement, competition, and courage are not off-limits because of vision loss.

2) Contact Info

Guest / Featured Voice: Lex Gillette — Team USA Paralympic athlete and long jumper.
Aftersight feedback / questions: feedback@aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856
Producer: Jonathan Price
Host: Kim Wardlow

3) Show Credits

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Lex Gillette
Producer: Jonathan Price
Organization: Aftersight

Sports 308: Who Says You Can't Ski When You're Blind?

Aftersight — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Kim Wardlow sits down with Christine Holmberg, Executive Director of Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind, for a conversation about skiing, confidence, freedom, and what becomes possible when blind and low-vision individuals are given the right support on the mountain. Christine shares how Foresight grew from a ski-specific program into a broader adventure organization, while still staying deeply committed to guided skiing and snowboarding at Vail and Beaver Creek.

The episode walks through how Foresight’s programs work for both adults and youth, including guided ski days, youth learn-to-ski trips, and the structure of having both a guide and a shadow on the mountain. Christine explains how trust is built, how guides communicate with skiers, and why the experience is often transformational for people who thought vision loss meant the end of activities they once loved.

The conversation also highlights the broader impact of adaptive recreation. From kids building confidence through skiing to adults reclaiming pieces of life they thought were gone, this episode is full of practical information and real hope. Christine also shares details about other adaptive ski programs in Colorado, the affordability of Foresight’s services, and the upcoming AfterSight and Foresight fundraising walk at Cherry Creek State Park on May 30.

Contact Info

Guest / Organization
Christine Holmberg
Executive Director, Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind
Website: foresightskiguides.org
Alternate Website: foresightadventureguidesfortheblind.org
Phone: 303-506-3859
Email: Christine@ForesightSkiGuides.org

Aftersight
Aftersight
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org

Producer Credits
Produced by Jonathan Price for Aftersight

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Christine Holmberg
Producer: Jonathan Price
Organization: Aftersight

(00:00) - — Welcome to the sports series and guest introduction
(01:52) - — How Foresight began and why the organization expanded
(05:58) - — How guided skiing works at Vail and Beaver Creek
(09:17) - — Youth programs, school partnerships, and future skiers
(11:29) - — Guide and shadow roles on the mountain
(13:28) - — Headsets, verbal cues, and safety communication
(15:13) - — Fear, confidence, and skiing after vision loss
(19:39) - — Building trust and assessing a skier’s ability
(21:15) - — Freedom, speed, and the confidence skiing can build
(25:27) - — Other adaptive ski programs across Colorado
(28:31) - — Cost, affordability, and financial assistance options
(30:50) - — Travel access for out-of-state skiers
(33:15) - — Family ski trips, long-term growth, and Paralympic dreams
(35:17) - — AfterSight and Foresight’s May 30 fundraising walk
(38:37) - — How to contact Foresight
(39:34) - — Closing encouragement and series wrap-up

Sports 307: Loving Yourself Through Healthy Eating and Balanced Lifestyle

Aftersight — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0600

1) Episode Summary

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow sits down with Mindy Keene for a grounded and encouraging conversation about health, wellness, and the small choices that build a stronger foundation for life. Rather than focusing only on sports performance, this episode pulls back and looks at the bigger picture: sleep, hydration, movement, nutrition, stress, self-talk, and the mental side of lasting change.

Mindy shares her personal turning point after learning her lung function had dropped significantly, and how that moment forced her to take her health more seriously. She talks honestly about cutting back on sugar, learning to read labels, shifting her meals toward protein and vegetables, and starting with simple movement like walking. She also opens up about the emotional side of the journey, including stress, crying as release, using music to reset, and learning not to punish herself for being human.

The conversation also touches on practical barriers that can come with vision loss, from navigating gym spaces to advocating for oneself with doctors. Throughout the episode, the heart of the message stays the same: start small, be realistic, love yourself, and build one healthy choice at a time. It is a warm, practical episode that reminds listeners that progress does not require perfection, only consistency and grace.

2) Contact Info

Guest: Mindy Keene
Guest / Organization Contact: Not provided in the transcript.

Aftersight
Website: Aftersight
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856

Producer Credits:
Host: Kim Wardlow
Producer: Jonathan Price

3) Show Credits

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Mindy Keene
Producer: Jonathan Price
Network: Aftersight

(00:00) - Chapter 1
(00:20) - — Welcome to the sports series and why wellness comes first
(01:30) - — Important note: this episode is encouragement, not medical advice
(02:08) - — What wellness means right now
(02:47) - — Mindy’s wake-up call: lung function, the scale, and needing change
(04:59) - — First steps: cutting sugar, moving more, and reading labels
(07:25) - — Sleep, white noise, boring books, and learning to rest
(09:10) - — When the mind will not slow down: music as therapy
(10:41) - — Healthy movement starts with walking
(11:46) - — Motivation on tired days and using hype music to get moving
(13:29) - — Food changes, loving yourself, and realistic goals
(14:40) - — Grocery shopping, label reading, and learning cleaner options
(16:46) - — Making healthier meals practical for the whole family
(18:15) - — Avoiding “junk” ingredients and keeping food simple
(19:24) - — Stress, overwhelm, and letting emotions out in healthy ways
(22:42) - — Vision loss barriers, gym anxiety, and self-advocacy with doctors
(25:51) - — Support systems, social media, and learning from others
(29:52) - — Mindset, cravings, and giving yourself grace
(30:47) - — Water, motivation, and measuring progress without shame
(34:27) - — Where to start: drink more water and make one small change
(37:03) - — The biggest takeaway: love yourself and build small goals
(38:45) - — Audio darts, marriage, and discovering new confidence
(40:05) - — Final encouragement and Kim’s closing challenge to listeners

Sports 306: Mountain Sports: Rock Climbing, Cycling, and Water Sports

Aftersight — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0600

1) Episode Summary

This episode continues the Navigating Life with Vision Loss sports series with a bold conversation on extreme sports. Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Shawn Cheshire, who shares her journey from vision loss after a traumatic brain injury to becoming a record-setting athlete in biathlon, cycling, hiking, and mountaineering. Together, they unpack misconceptions about blindness and risk, the role of fear in growth, and why communication, trust, and the right team matter more than special equipment in many outdoor pursuits. The conversation also explores rock climbing, water adventures, and mountaineering, while giving listeners practical encouragement to try something new, define failure differently, and take one meaningful step forward. The episode closes with Shawn’s reminder that the greatest barrier is often not disability, but access to people willing to do the adventure with you.

2) Contact Info

Guest / Organization
Shawn Cheshire
Choosing to See — choosingtosee.org
Instagram — @sean_cheshire
Shawn notes that reaching out through Choosing to See is a direct way to connect with her.

Aftersight
Aftersight
feedback@aftersight.org
(720) 712-8856

Producer Credits
Produced by Jonathan Price

3) Show Credits

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Shawn Cheshire
Producer: Jonathan Price

(00:00) - Tempo: 120.0

Sports 305: Cane and Able: Building Strength, Confidence, and Independence

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0600

1) Episode Summary

Kim Wardlow welcomes Evan Schwabrock, founder of Cane and Able Fitness, for a practical and encouraging conversation about getting started with strength training and gym fitness as a blind or low-vision person. Evan shares his story of losing most of his vision due to Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, how his background in kinesiology and disability studies shaped his work, and why he created Cane and Able Fitness to challenge the idea that disability means inability.

This episode focuses on real-world fitness basics rather than extreme performance. Evan breaks down the confidence, independence, and resilience that strength training can build, both inside and outside the gym. He offers encouragement for listeners who may have fallen off their goals, emphasizing that progress does not require perfection, only consistency, good systems, and sustainable habits.

Kim and Evan also walk through common misconceptions about blind and low-vision people in gyms, the difference between working out at home versus in a gym environment, how often someone really needs to work out to make progress, and what to do on that first day walking into a gym. Evan gives clear, accessible advice on gym safety, interacting with staff, using spotters, building around foundational strength movements, and understanding when it is time to increase weight or difficulty.

The conversation closes with myth-busting around fitness excuses, practical thoughts on working out with injuries or joint issues, and encouragement for listeners to stop waiting for the “perfect” time and simply begin in a way that works for them. It is a grounded, motivating episode for anyone wanting to get stronger, feel more capable, and approach fitness with vision loss in a way that is accessible and sustainable.

2) Contact Info

Guest / Organization
Evan Schwabrock
Founder, Cane and Able Fitness
Website: caneandablefitness.com
Socials: Cane and Able Fitness on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube

Aftersight
Website: Aftersight.org
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856

Producer
Jonathan Price
Podcast and Program Producer, Aftersight

3) Show Credits

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Evan Schwabrock
Producer: Jonathan Price
Organization: Aftersight

4) Chapter Markers

00:03 — Kim introduces the sports series and today’s focus on gym basics and strength training
01:35 — Evan shares his vision loss journey and the founding of Cane and Able Fitness
04:04 — Why strength training builds confidence, capability, and momentum beyond the gym
05:44 — Restarting fitness goals after falling off track and setting sustainable habits
07:23 — Misconceptions about blind and low-vision people working out in gym spaces
09:06 — How beginners can start small and ease into fitness without overwhelm
12:16 — Gym workouts versus home workouts: community, mobility, and accountability
15:10 — How often to work out when starting and why consistency matters more than volume
18:18 — First-day gym advice: asking staff for help, tours, and building support systems
19:27 — Safety in the gym, owning your space, and reducing avoidable hazards
22:16 — Foundational strength movements and how they connect to everyday function
25:07 — Machines versus free weights and why both have value in a training plan
26:27 — Coaching form with vision loss through tactile, sensory, and audible feedback
27:42 — Knowing when to increase weight, difficulty, or training challenge
29:48 — Fitness myths, excuses, and the fear of being judged or getting “too bulky”
35:20 — Working out with injuries, arthritis, balance issues, or joint limitations
39:35 — Stretching, mobility, and building movement quality into the workout itself
41:31 — Evan’s final encouragement on finding what works and building positive momentum
43:02 — Where listeners can find Cane and Able Fitness online
43:47 — Kim closes the episode and encourages listeners to keep moving forward

(00:00) - Tempo: 120.0

Sports 304: Row, Paddle, Swim: Finding Freedom in the Water

Aftersight — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow continues the sports series by diving into aquatic sports with Jillian Stringfellow and Will Rastetter from Envision Blind Sports. Together, they unpack how blind and low-vision athletes can participate in swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and rowing with the right instruction, communication, and support.

The conversation highlights a simple but powerful truth: aquatic sports are far more accessible than many people assume. Jillian and Will explain that most adaptations are not dramatic. They often come down to clearer verbal instruction, guided orientation, hands-on learning, and building trust step by step.

The episode spends meaningful time on swimming, covering early teaching methods like breath control, bubble work, kicking, body positioning, lane orientation, and the use of tappers at the wall. Will also explains how swimmers grow from basic safety and comfort in the water to stronger stroke technique, confidence, and even school team participation.

From there, the discussion moves into kayaking, canoeing, and rowing, where communication, rhythm, and individualized cues become key. Jillian shares how Envision uses partnerships and trained volunteers to help athletes safely try new experiences, while also helping families see what is truly possible.

At its heart, this episode is about confidence. The encouragement is clear: try the sport, trust the process, and let the experience build belief. For many athletes, that first success in the water becomes a doorway into greater independence, community, and courage in the rest of life.

Contact Info

Guests / Organization

Jillian Stringfellow, Program Director, Envision Blind Sports
Will Rastetter, Swim Coach, Envision Blind Sports
Website: EnvisionBlindSports.org
General contact: envisionblindsports@gmail.com | (724) 967-4712
Jillian direct contact: jstringfellow@envisionblindsports.org

Aftersight

Website: Aftersight.org
Podcast: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
General contact: contact@aftersight.org | (303) 786-7777
Address: 1805 Hwy 42, Ste 220, Louisville, CO 80027

Producer Credits

Jonathan Price, Podcast Producer, Aftersight
jonathan@aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856

Show Credits

Host: Kim Wardlow
Guests: Jillian Stringfellow and Will Rastetter
Organization Featured: Envision Blind Sports
Producer: Jonathan Price
Network: Aftersight

Chapter Markers

00:00 — Kim opens the aquatic sports episode
01:13 — What Envision Blind Sports does
04:54 — Common misconceptions about blind athletes in water sports
07:05 — “Fearless, Do More” in aquatic settings
10:00 — The biggest fears athletes and families face
12:03 — Encouraging athletes who do not see themselves as athletic
15:13 — How Will teaches brand-new swimmers
20:15 — Lane orientation, walls, turns, and tappers
23:51 — First steps for getting started in swimming
26:31 — Confidence that carries beyond the pool
29:37 — Kayaking and canoeing: instruction, cues, and safety
34:59 — Family involvement, trust, and growing independence
37:56 — Rowing basics and why it works so well
43:20 — Safety habits and confidence tips across sports
46:06 — The moments that remind them why this work matters
48:24 — How to connect with Envision Blind Sports
49:10 — Kim closes and previews next week’s martial arts episode

Kim Wardlow: The Journey Behind Aftersight

Aftersight — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:08:19 -0700

1) Episode Summary

In this special Aftersight Original, Kim Wardlow shares the personal story behind her leadership and the road that led her to become Executive Director of Aftersight. She reflects on growing up in Lamar, Colorado, her early love for creativity, 4-H, cooking, service, travel, and the many work experiences that quietly prepared her for nonprofit leadership.

Kim walks listeners through pivotal moments in her life—from studying abroad in Scotland and working internationally, to volunteering at what was then Radio Reading Service of the Rockies, to unexpectedly finding both her calling and her husband through the organization. She also shares how Aftersight has evolved over the years from volunteer-read programming into a wider community-centered organization offering podcasts, peer support, book club, white canes, and more.

This episode is both a personal milestone and a mission-centered reflection. As Kim celebrates her 60th birthday and approaches 25 years with Aftersight, she invites listeners to see the deeper heart behind the organization: building community, increasing independence, and creating meaningful access for people who are blind, low vision, deafblind, or in need of alternatives to print. The episode closes with an invitation to support Aftersight’s work through her birthday giving campaign.

2) Contact Info

Guest / Organization:
Kim Wardlow — Executive Director, Aftersight
Aftersight website: aftersight.org
Birthday campaign / donations: Visit the donate page at aftersight.org

Aftersight:
Aftersight Originals network featuring Navigating Life with Vision Loss, The Blind Chick, Blindsight, and Blind Level Tech

Producer Credit:
Jonathan Price — Podcast Producer, Aftersight

3) Show Credits

Special Aftersight Original
Featuring Kim Wardlow
Opening by Jonathan Price
Produced by Jonathan Price
Organization: Aftersight

4) Chapter Markers

00:00 — Jonathan’s welcome and special Aftersight introduction
00:53 — Kim introduces herself, Aftersight, and the reason for sharing her story
03:14 — Childhood in Lamar, creativity, 4-H, and early PBS dreams
05:38 — Learning leadership, service, and community values
08:03 — Solar panels, first jobs, and developing a strong work ethic
10:28 — College, Scotland, travel, and broadening her world
12:54 — Early professional life, proposal writing, and service work
15:14 — Volunteering with Radio Reading Service and working at GE Access
17:37 — Friendship, snowshoeing, travel, and a season of transition
20:02 — Layoff, September 2001, and joining Radio Reading Service
22:21 — Meeting Doug, discovering purpose, and seeing the bigger calling
24:43 — Outreach across Colorado, music, and the value of volunteers
27:04 — How Aftersight expanded into podcasts, groups, and broader services
29:29 — Leadership, rebrand, relocation, and adapting through COVID
31:44 — Community, connection, and why the work matters
34:07 — Life purpose, independence, and the mission behind Aftersight
36:31 — Kim’s birthday campaign and invitation to support Aftersight

(00:00) - Tempo: 120.0

Sports 303: The Power of Team Sports

Aftersight — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0700

1) Episode Summary

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the sports series with a conversation about team sports, adaptive recreation, and the deeper personal growth that comes through play. Guest Ashley Thomas, founder of Bridge to Sports, shares her own story of living with spina bifida, becoming a wheelchair user, discovering sport later in life, and eventually competing at a world-class level in kayaking.

Ashley brings a powerful perspective to the conversation: sport is not just about competition. It is a tool for confidence, independence, resilience, teamwork, communication, and self-discovery. She shares an unforgettable story about doing her first 5K with her daughter, where poor planning turned into a lesson in humility, teamwork, and learning how to communicate needs clearly.

The episode also explores the value of asking for help, how to approach a team environment when you feel like the “new person,” and why it is important to keep trying even when fear, discouragement, or past rejection make it tempting to stay small. Ashley also discusses adaptive team sports and activities that can work well for blind and low-vision athletes, including beep baseball, bocce, cycling, kayaking, and other adaptive options.

The heart of the episode is simple and strong: it is never too late to play, never too late to try, and never too late to discover what you are capable of.

2) Contact Info

Guest / Organization
Ashley Thomas
Founder, Bridge to Sports

Aftersight
Aftersight
Email: contact@aftersight.org

Producer
Jonathan Price
Podcast and Program Producer, Aftersight

3) Show Credits

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Ashley Thomas
Producer: Jonathan Price
Organization: Aftersight

4) Chapter Markers

00:02 — Kim introduces the sports series and guest Ashley Thomas
01:21 — Ashley shares her background, disability, and love for sport
02:58 — Why sport can be adapted for everyone
05:45 — The deeper benefits of team sports beyond the game itself
07:21 — Ashley’s first race story and lessons in humility and teamwork
21:41 — Finding the sport you love versus the one you are best at
22:29 — How to ask for help and communicate your needs clearly
31:11 — Body positioning, posture, and practical sport readiness
34:45 — Beep baseball and what it teaches about blind athletic skill
37:23 — Blind soccer, hockey, and starting what does not yet exist
39:16 — Bocce as an adaptive team sport option
42:08 — Kayaking and other adaptive opportunities for blind athletes
43:13 — Ashley’s closing encouragement: just do it

(00:00) - Tempo: 120.0

Sports 302: No Sight, All Skill: Goalball and the Paralympic Grind with Lisa Tarkowski & EJ Whitney

Aftersight — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0700

1) Episode Summary

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the 16-week sports series with a deep dive into goalball—a fast-paced Paralympic sport designed specifically for blind and low-vision athletes.

Kim is joined by Lisa Tarkowski, a six-time Paralympic medalist and multi-sport Paralympian (goalball and track & field), and EJ Whitney, a coach and strength/conditioning professional who has worked closely with U.S. goalball athletes.

Together, they break down:

How goalball started after World War II and evolved into a Paralympic sport
How the game is played (court layout, positions, rules, shot clock, eyeshades, ball with bells)
Offensive and defensive strategies, including spin throws and sound-based deception
What it takes to train and compete at the elite/Paralympic level
Injury prevention, recovery, and strength training for high-level goalball athletes
How beginners can get started recreationally through local clubs and demos
Why goalball is such a powerful sport for confidence, teamwork, communication, and skill development

The conversation also highlights how adaptive sports environments can become more inclusive through tactile cues, clear coaching communication, and accessible training spaces.

2) Contact Info

Guest / Organization Info

Lisa Tarkowski — Paralympic goalball athlete (Team USA / Paralympic goalball)
EJ Whitney — Goalball coach / strength & conditioning support (Turnstone; Team USA goalball training context)
Resource mentioned: USABA (U.S. Association of Blind Athletes) for goalball information, videos, and recreational pathways (referenced in episode/show notes)

Aftersight

Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss (Aftersight)
Network: Aftersight Podcasts / Aftersight Originals

Producer Credits

Host: Kim Wardlow
Producer: Jonathan Price

3) Show Credits

Podcast: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Episode Topic: Goalball, Paralympic competition, and accessible sports pathways
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guests: Lisa Tarkowski and EJ Whitney
Producer: Jonathan Price
Network: Aftersight

4) Chapter Markers

00:03 — Kim introduces the sports series and today’s focus on goalball
02:13 — Lisa Tarkowski shares her background and how she got into goalball
04:39 — Goalball basics: court layout, gameplay, and defensive objective
07:08 — Throwing styles, velocity, movement, and offensive techniques
09:33 — Listening, bells in the ball, and sound-based strategy
11:59 — Positions explained: wings vs. center and physical demands
14:23 — How defensive play has evolved (from standing to low-to-ground play)
15:03 — What it feels like to compete at the Paralympics
17:20 — Common misconceptions about goalball and Paralympic awareness
18:41 — Offensive rules, shot clock, and penalty strategy
21:01 — Beginner throws and first steps for learning the game
23:25 — Lisa’s advice for new players and younger athletes starting out
25:48 — Elite training, strength & conditioning, and injury prevention
28:10 — Team dynamics, athlete traits, and what coaches look for
30:21 — How to get started recreationally and finding local clubs
32:47 — Goalball demos, community education, and team-building applications
35:13 — Coaching athletes with vision loss and building accessible training spaces
37:37 — Audience etiquette, game atmosphere, and final encouragement to try goalball

Sports 301: Beep Baseball Basics — How Beatball Works, Why It Matters, and How to Get Involved

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Episode Summary

Navigating Life with Vision Loss launches a new sports series—covering everything from beginner-friendly fitness routines to extreme sports—and kicks things off with beep baseball (often called “beepball”), an adaptive version of baseball designed for blind and low-vision athletes.

Guest Ethan Johnston shares his background (growing up as the only blind kid in a small Missouri town, originally from Ethiopia) and explains how sports and music became “therapy” for him. He walks listeners through how beep baseball works—key rule differences from traditional baseball, defensive positioning, the role of a sighted pitcher and spotters, why everyone wears blindfolds for fairness, and how outs/runs are determined.

The conversation also explores confidence-building for new players, practice drills, the physical intensity of the sport, travel and camaraderie, the season schedule (including tournaments and the “World Series” style championship), equipment costs, and concrete first steps for getting involved—either as a player or as a sighted volunteer (pitcher/spotter).

Contact Info

Getting involved (as shared in the episode):

Team listings + schedule: NBBA.org (as referenced in the conversation)
To watch games: search YouTube/Facebook Live for “beep baseball” + your nearest team name (examples mentioned: “Gateway Archers”)

Aftersight (show network):

Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856

Producer credit:

Produced by Jonathan Price (Aftersight)

Show Credits

Podcast: Navigating Life with Vision Loss (Aftersight Original)
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Ethan Johnston
Producer: Jonathan Price

Chapter Markers

00:00 — Welcome + sports series kickoff
02:23 — Ethan’s background + how he found beep baseball in Colorado
04:48 — How the game works: two bases, zones, defense setup
07:15 — Pitcher/batter on same team + strikes/innings + mercy-rule talk
09:40 — Safety + beeping ball + why you don’t “throw to first”
12:02 — Blindfolds + spotters + communication and lane integrity
14:14 — How an out is made + close calls + volunteer officiating
16:35 — Home run rules + highlight plays + rare catches/double plays
19:00 — Building confidence for new players + running to the correct base
21:20 — Practice drills + timing + why hitting in the air matters
23:20 — Season timeline + training/conditioning routines
25:45 — Travel, fundraising, and team camaraderie
27:47 — Youth participation + age realities + lack of “minor league”
30:12 — Equipment costs + durability (balls/bases)
32:38 — How to join: NBBA.org + joining a nearby team even out-of-state
34:48 — Longevity in the sport + older players still producing
36:22 — Favorite positions + hardest skill (don’t listen to the ball)
38:44 — Veteran mindset + unforgettable moments
40:52 — How to attend/watch games + final thoughts
43:09 — Aftersight show plug + closing remarks

(00:00) - Tempo: 120.0

S215: Your Safety Questions Answered

Aftersight — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode Summary
In this wrap-up of the Safety Series, Kim Wardlow and a fellow Aftersight host answer listener questions about real-life safety challenges. Listeners share concerns about traveling alone, involving neighbors in a safety network, feeling secure in public spaces, avoiding online scams, and improving home safety on a budget.
Kim and her guest offer practical, honest advice—emphasizing that independence looks different for everyone, small steps matter, and safety includes both tools and community. The episode closes with a reminder to support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day and to explore Aftersight’s other podcasts for more resources and encouragement.

Contact Info
Aftersight / Navigating Life with Vision Loss
Website: https://www.aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day:
https://www.coloradogives.org
→ Search Aftersight
Other Aftersight Podcasts
The Blind Chick
Blindsight
Blind Level Tech
Code Orange
Producer Credits
Produced by Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer at Aftersight.
Audio editing and production coordination also by Jonathan Price.

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest Co-Host: Aftersight podcast host
Producer: Jonathan Price
Network: Aftersight Originals

Chapter Markers
00:00 – Intro and purpose of the episode
00:25 – Safety Series recap
01:10 – Colorado Gives Day announcement
02:20 – Listener concerns about traveling alone
04:45 – Understanding independence and personal limits
08:15 – Building a supportive safety network
12:00 – How to connect with neighbors
14:15 – Safety while traveling with a cane
16:00 – Tools, instincts, and situational awareness
20:30 – Online scams and digital safety
24:30 – How to verify legitimacy and report fraud
28:40 – Budget-friendly home safety ideas
34:00 – Smart lights, clear paths, and tactile access
38:00 – Importance of safety in everyday life
39:15 – Aftersight podcast recommendations
40:10 – Closing message and encouragement

S214: Building Your Safety Network with joe Strechay

Aftersight — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0700

1) Episode Summary
In this final episode of the safety series, Kim Wardlow explores how to build a strong personal safety network with guest Joe Strechay. Joe explains that a safety network is more than an emergency contact—it’s a mix of trusted people who support day-to-day needs like transportation, home tasks, childcare, employment, and technology.
Joe shares how his network evolved through college, cross-country moves, and international film work, emphasizing that each season of life requires different kinds of support. He highlights the importance of reciprocity, clear communication, and knowing when to let someone go if a relationship isn’t dependable.
The discussion also covers practical tools like Be My Eyes, Aira, Seeing AI, and accessible travel apps, showing how technology can fill gaps when people aren’t available. Kim and Joe also point to community groups, neighbors, and even realtors as overlooked but valuable connectors.
They close by encouraging listeners to step outside their comfort zone, build relationships intentionally, and stay engaged in community—because a strong safety network grows from showing up and supporting others.

2) Contact Info
Guest – Joe Strechay
Websites: stretcha.org, stretchaconsulting.org, stretcha.net
Social: LinkedIn (Joe Strechay), Instagram (Joe Strechay / J Strechay), X/Twitter (Joe Strechay), Facebook (Joe Strechay)
Aftersight
Learn more at Aftersight.org
Production
Produced by Jonathan Price

3) Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Joe Strechay
Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss — an Aftersight Original Podcast
Producer: Jonathan Price
Presented by Aftersight

4) Chapter Markers
00:01 – Wrapping up the safety series
02:18 – What a safety network really is
04:36 – College, vision loss, and early safety networks
06:56 – Keeping support relationships reciprocal
09:23 – Neighbors, hired drivers, and rural safety planning
15:55 – Rebuilding your network after a move
19:27 – Getting lost in Budapest
25:57 – When someone doesn’t belong in your network
27:30 – Tech tools that support your safety network
31:40 – Realtors and local pros as trusted connectors
33:31 – Backup plans and offline prep
35:35 – Get comfortable being uncomfortable
37:11 – Aftersight show roundup

S213: Safe to Be You: Parenting, Caregiving, and Blindness with Bethany Joy Boring

Aftersight — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0700

1) Episode Summary
Host Kim Wardlow continues the Navigating Life with Vision Loss safety series by exploring what “safety” really means in parenting and caregiving—far beyond outlet covers and baby gates. Guest Bethany Joy Boring, a blind single mom, speaker, author, and mental health coach, shares candid stories about raising three boys while navigating progressive vision loss and hearing loss.
Together, Kim and Bethany unpack the balance between protecting kids and letting them grow, how blindness can actually deepen trust and connection within a family, and the emotional side of handing over the car keys—whether you’re a parent losing vision or an older adult facing new limitations.
Bethany offers practical ideas for building emotional safety at home (“Do I see you? Do I hear you?”), communicating limits without shame, using technology (yes, including AI and AirTags) as a safety tool, and handling “safety oops” moments—like mistaking the cat’s paw for a ping-pong ball or the microwave crash that became a family legend.
The conversation then shifts to caring for older adults who are losing vision, including radical acceptance, grief, and how to avoid turning safety into control. Bethany emphasizes creating a truly safe space for hard conversations, so both caregiver and loved one feel heard, valued, and part of the decisions being made.
She closes with a powerful reminder: surviving is good, but thriving is different. Thriving is about what God is doing in and through your life so that others look at you and wonder, “What do they have that I don’t?” Kim wraps up with gratitude for listeners, a reminder about Colorado Gives Day, and a preview of next week’s episode on building your safety network.

2) Contact Info
Guest – Bethany Joy Boring
• Website: https://stepoutandthrive.com
• Link hub: https://bethanybjoy.com
Aftersight / Navigating Life with Vision Loss
• Website: https://aftersight.org
• Be a guest or share feedback: jonathan@aftersight.org
• Phone: (720) 712-8856
Producer Contact
Jonathan Price
Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight
Email: jonathan@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856

3) Show Credits
Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss — an Aftersight Original Podcast
Episode: Parenting, Caregiving, and Safety
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Bethany Joy Boring (speaker, mental health coach, author)
Producer: Jonathan Price
Production Support: The Aftersight Team
Organization: Aftersight, a nonprofit serving the blind and low-vision community
4) Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome, safety series overview, Colorado Gives Day, and introducing Bethany Joy Boring
02:22 – What “safety” really means: physical, emotional, logistical, and relational
04:37 – Blind mom ping-pong story and the accidental cat-claw grab
06:59 – “Did all three of them come from you?”: confronting judgment about blind parenting
09:27 – Raising kids who see people, not labels: conference stories and normalizing disability
11:50 – Blindness, single parenting, and modeling resilience through hard conversations
14:15 – Keys, cars, and independence: teaching a teen to drive while losing vision
16:40 – Being honest with kids about limits, code words, and joking about spiders
19:02 – The escape artist cat, AirTags, and using tech creatively for safety
21:27 – When partners or helpers “over-help”: advocating for independence with grace
23:51 – Supporting older adults losing vision: radical acceptance and shared reality
26:05 – You can’t change what you can’t name: making space for hard truths on both sides
28:30 – Aging, expectations, and not wanting to be a burden: listening before “fixing”
30:56 – Curiosity over assumptions: slowing down and creating a safe atmosphere for change
33:16 – “You protect what you value”: what Bethany’s kids have taught her about safety and worth
...

S212: Um... You Forgot Your Passport: Traveling safely with Sue Slater

Aftersight — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode Summary
This episode explores the essentials of safe and confident solo travel for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. Host Kim Wardlow welcomes back seasoned traveler and travel advisor Sue Slater, who brings more than 40 years of firsthand experience traveling independently around the world.
Kim and Sue break down domestic and international travel safety, including airport navigation, researching safe neighborhoods, using rideshare responsibly, preparing for currency differences, avoiding scams and pickpockets, and keeping your passport, cards, and devices secure. Sue also highlights essential apps—including Aira, Be My Eyes, Google Translate, CityMapper, Ally, and XE Currency—and walks through realistic scenarios, from navigating New Orleans solo to handling unexpected passport emergencies abroad.
Listeners will learn how to plan ahead, assess risks, stay connected with loved ones during travel, travel with a guide dog, and build confidence through preparation. Sue closes with actionable guidance: research everything, book ahead, use vetted companies, and travel on your own terms—because “the world is your oyster” when you’re prepared.

Contact Info
Guest – Sue Slater
• Email: cruzaway2001@yahoo.com
• Phone: 314-541-8400
• Additional resource: Rising Star Kulach (inclusive travel organization; contact Sue for details)
Aftersight (Feedback & Questions)
• Email: feedback@aftersight.org
• Phone: 720-712-8856
Produced by Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Sue Slater
Producer: Jonathan Price
An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Intro & episode overview
01:20 — Meet Sue Slater
03:10 — Domestic solo travel basics
06:45 — Airport navigation & accessible tools
09:05 — Researching hotels and neighborhood safety
11:30 — Using Lyft/Uber safely when traveling alone
13:30 — International travel: currency & language prep
16:00 — Phone access, SIM cards & connectivity challenges
18:45 — Booking tours and transportation in advance
21:10 — Travel insurance essentials
23:00 — Protecting passports, cards & preventing theft
27:00 — Sue’s solo travel stories: New Orleans
29:30 — Sue’s solo travel stories: Dubai
31:20 — Emergencies abroad & contacting the embassy
33:00 — Staying connected with loved ones
35:00 — Traveling with a guide dog internationally
37:00 — Best apps for blind and low-vision travelers
40:15 — Final advice for new solo travelers
42:20 — How to contact Sue & inclusive travel groups
43:20 — Outro & listener questions

S211: Love, Trust, and Turkey: Relationship Safety Without the Side-Dish Drama

Aftersight — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode Summary
In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the Safety Series by exploring how emotional, physical, and spiritual safety impact relationships. Joined by Bill Lundgren, host of Blindsight and longtime mental health advocate, the discussion dives deep into what it means to make wise relationship choices—from family and workplace connections to romantic and community relationships.

Listeners will learn how to:
Identify the difference between safe and unsafe relationships.
Recognize subtle signs of emotional or spiritual harm.
Build boundaries rooted in self-respect and self-love.
Cultivate supportive mentors and healthy allies.
Balance independence with interdependence in romantic and social contexts.
Bill also leads a reflective exercise on embracing yourself and trusting your instincts, reminding listeners that self-love is the first form of safety. The episode closes with encouragement to build a “circle of light”—a community of people who see, support, and respect you for who you are.

Contact Info
For questions or comments, email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Website: www.aftersight.org
Producer:
Jonathan Price — Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight
jonathan@aftersight.org
Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Bill Lundgren
Producer: Jonathan Price
Navigating Life with Vision Loss is an Aftersight Original Podcast, created to inform, empower, and connect the blind and low vision community.

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Welcome and Series Recap
02:17 — Defining Safety in Relationships
05:27 — The Importance of Self-Love
07:13 — Trusting Instincts and Inner Wisdom
08:23 — Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Safety
12:50 — Family and Sibling Dynamics
17:14 — Finding Safe Support Beyond Family
19:32 — Safety and Mentorship in the Workplace
26:15 — Building Trust and Setting Boundaries
28:34 — Safety in Romantic Relationships
33:47 — Maintaining Independence and Balance
36:08 — Respect and Equality in Relationships
40:40 — Family Rules and Couples Communication
43:34 — Healthy Communication and Growth
48:16 — Closing Thoughts and Colorado Gives Day Message

S210: Staying Safe and Confident in Healthcare Settings

Aftersight — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 02:00:06 -0700

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer at AccessiBe, National Ambassador for the National Federation of the Blind’s Braille Literacy Campaign, and author of Thunder Dog and Live Like a Guide Dog. The conversation explores safety and self-advocacy in healthcare settings for people who are blind or have low vision. Michael shares personal stories, including a recent hospital experience that highlights gaps in staff understanding of blindness, and offers strategies for educating providers, asserting one’s needs, and ensuring safety in medical environments. He emphasizes the importance of confidence, self-advocacy, and continuous education—both for blind individuals and for medical professionals.
Michael also discusses accessible technology in healthcare, from Kaiser Permanente’s app and medication labeling systems to tools like Envision labels and Braille organization strategies. He stresses that blindness itself is not the problem—societal attitudes and lack of awareness are. The episode closes with practical advice: ask questions, advocate for confidentiality, and remember that learning blindness skills through organizations like the Colorado Center for the Blind and NFB can empower independence and safety.

Contact Info
Guest: Michael Hingson
Chief Vision Officer, AccessiBe
Email: speaker@michaelhingson.com
Website: www.michaelhingson.com
Books: Thunder Dog, Live Like a Guide Dog, Running with Roselle

Aftersight Contact:
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Website: www.aftersight.org
Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast and Program Producer, Aftersight

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Michael Hingson
Producer: Jonathan Price
An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Intro: Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:25 — Meet Guest Michael Hingson
02:53 — Understanding Barriers in Healthcare Settings
07:30 — Advocating for Yourself in Medical Situations
09:53 — Dealing with Misunderstanding and Bias
11:57 — The Art of Self-Advocacy Without Conflict
13:32 — Communicating with New Providers
15:54 — Knowing and Defending Your Rights
19:06 — Accessible Health Tech and Kaiser Permanente
21:31 — Labeling Medication and Accessibility Tools
23:24 — Adapting to Vision Loss Later in Life
26:38 — Blindness as Perception, Not Limitation
28:50 — Changing Medical Education on Disability Awareness
31:15 — The Importance of Inclusion and Communication
31:32 — Final Advice: Confidence, Questions, and Community
33:19 — Closing and Resources

S209: Safety in Dating with Anneliese Knop and Laura Millar

Aftersight — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Annaliese Knop, mental health professional, and Laura Millar, public health expert—co-founders of the Blind Sexuality Access Network (BSAN)—for a deep, empowering discussion about safe online dating, boundaries, consent, and healthy connections in the blind and low-vision community.
They unpack the “Be Nice and Educate” mindset often taught to blind individuals, showing how it can unintentionally suppress autonomy. Annaliese and Laura explain the FRIES model of consent (Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific) and offer concrete tools to identify red flags, build confidence in saying “no,” and create emotionally and physically safe dating experiences. The episode also explores reactive independence vs. interdependence, how internalized ableism can affect relationships, and how to reframe blindness as strength rather than limitation. Through humor, vulnerability, and practical wisdom, this conversation encourages listeners to embrace joy, agency, and dignity in dating—online and offline.

Contact Info
Guests & Organization
Blind Sexuality Access Network (BSAN)
Website & Facebook: Search “Blind Sexuality Access Network”
Aftersight Contact
📞 (720) 712-8856
✉️ feedback@aftersight.org
🌐 aftersight.org
Producer
Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer — Aftersight
Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guests: Annaliese Knop & Laura Millar
Production: Jonathan Price
An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Introduction
00:26 — Safe Online Dating Overview
01:00 — Origins of the Blind Sexuality Access Network
02:45 — Combining Sex Positivity and Blind Positivity
05:00 — Personal Journeys and Motivation
07:35 — The “Be Nice and Educate” Problem
10:00 — Trauma, Boundaries, and Consent Culture
12:15 — The 5C Framework for Responding to Harm
14:40 — The FRIES Model of Consent
17:05 — Empowerment in Online Dating
19:27 — Learning to Say “No” with Support
21:50 — Red and Green Flags in Online Profiles
26:14 — Trusting Gut Feelings (Interoception)
28:39 — Disclosure and Internalized Ableism
31:02 — First Date Safety Strategies
35:19 — Communicating Access Needs
37:39 — Independence vs. Interdependence
41:53 — Reactive Independence and Toxic Perfectionism
43:53 — Closing Advice and BSAN Invitation

S208: Scams and Safeguards: Protecting Yourself from Fraud with Desiree Farley

Aftersight — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Kim Wardlow talks with Desiree Farley, Community Protection Specialist at the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office, about recognizing and recovering from scams and fraud. They cover tech-support pop-ups, account takeovers, spoofed calls and AI voice mimicry, contractor and door-to-door schemes, safe public Wi-Fi use, device updates, credit freezes, and why reporting matters. Practical safeguards include family “safe words,” letting unknown calls go to voicemail, verifying businesses, and contacting banks first after any loss. Resources noted: local DA offices, Colorado AG, FTC, BBB, and AARP peer support.

2) Contact Info Guest: Desiree Farley, Community Protection Specialist, Boulder County District Attorney’s Office Aftersight: feedback@aftersight.org • (720) 712-8856 • aftersight.org Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight

3) Show Credits Host: Kim Wardlow Guest: Desiree Farley Producer: Jonathan Price An Aftersight Original

4) Chapter Markers 00:00 — Welcome and safety season setup 02:21 — What a Community Protection Specialist does 04:43 — Why victims should report scams 06:57 — Community alerts and EBT scam example 09:23 — Tech-support pop-ups and remote-access traps 11:22 — Spotting fake websites and resisting urgency 13:43 — Spoofed calls, AI voices, and family safe words 16:02 — Keep devices updated and know support limits 18:29 — Public Wi-Fi risks and library computers 20:57 — Contractor and door-to-door fraud basics 22:59 — Vetting businesses: SOS, BBB, complaints 25:20 — First moves after a loss: call your bank 25:39 — Red flags: crypto ATMs and payment demands 28:05 — Credit freezes vs fraud alerts 30:22 — Resources: DA, AG, FTC, BBB, AARP; speaking invites

S207: Safety in Your Finances with Penny Forward

Aftersight — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the safety series with a deep dive into financial safety and independence. Joining her are Chris Peterson, Founder and CEO of Penny Forward, and Liz Botner, Board Member, Financial Educator, and Accessibility Advocate. Together, they explore how education and confidence can empower individuals who are blind or have low vision to take control of their finances.
Listeners learn how to recognize and prevent financial fraud, the importance of monitoring financial activity, and practical strategies for maintaining independence even with trusted helpers. Chris and Liz share common scams targeting seniors and people with disabilities, early warning signs of financial abuse by trusted individuals, and steps to reclaim financial autonomy.
They also discuss accessible financial tools and apps like YNAB (You Need A Budget), Empower, and Excel, plus services Penny Forward offers—from online financial courses to one-on-one counseling and benefits planning. The conversation closes with an encouragement to speak up when something feels wrong and to pursue financial literacy as a form of empowerment and protection.

Contact Info
Guest Organization:
Penny Forward
Email: pennyforward@pennyforward.com

Aftersight Contact:
Website: www.aftersight.org
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guests: Chris Peterson & Liz Botner, Penny Forward
Producer: Jonathan Price
Show: Navigating Life with Vision Loss — An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction
01:10 – What Financial Safety Means to You
04:30 – Origins of Penny Forward
07:10 – Confidence, Education, and Financial Independence
09:30 – Avoiding Vulnerability and Building Awareness
11:50 – Common Scams and Red Flags
14:20 – Recognizing Fraud from Trusted Individuals
19:00 – Monitoring Accounts and Credit Reports
21:40 – Steps Toward Independent Financial Management
26:10 – Accessible Banking and Budgeting Tools
31:00 – Penny Forward Services and Workshops
33:20 – How to Seek Help and Speak Up
38:00 – Closing Thoughts and Resources

S206: Fraud and Safety: What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You with Heidi Gassman

Aftersight — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the safety series with a focus on fraud prevention. Attorney Heidi Gassman, a specialist in trusts, estates, and fraud prevention, shares insights from 30 years of practice. The discussion covers how fraud starts, early red flags, and practical steps to protect yourself—especially in the blind and low-vision community.

Topics include the post-2020 rise in scams, the difference between disability and incapacity, and the importance of trusted relationships. Heidi explains supported decision-making agreements, powers of attorney, and best practices for reviewing legal documents accessibly. Key takeaways: pause before acting, involve a trusted person, and never feel ashamed if targeted—report early to limit damage.

Contact Info

Guest:
Heidi Gassman, Attorney at Law — Trusts, Estates, Fraud Prevention

Aftersight:
Email: contact@aftersight.org
Phone: (303) 786-7777
To reach Kim Wardlow directly: Ext. 4112
Web: aftersight.org

Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer — Aftersight

Show Credits

Host — Kim Wardlow
Guest — Heidi Gassman
Producer — Jonathan Price
Editing & Post-Production — Aftersight Audio Team
A Production of Aftersight Originals

Chapter Markers

00:00 — Introduction and overview of the Safety Series
01:05 — Heidi’s background and start in fraud prevention
03:12 — Early signs of fraud and real-life examples
07:00 — How fraudsters manipulate trust and persistence
09:30 — Making yourself less of a target
11:45 — Legal structures: Power of Attorney, Trusts, Guardianships
14:20 — Supported decision-making agreements explained
18:40 — Disability vs. incapacity: knowing the difference
21:00 — When fraud comes from within families
23:10 — Guidance for blind/low-vision individuals when signing
25:25 — What to do if you suspect fraud
27:40 — When to contact law enforcement
30:00 — Resources for legal and financial support
32:20 — You are not alone: act early and report
34:30 — Final thoughts and Aftersight contact information

S205: Digital and Identity Safety with Brandon Kennelly

Aftersight — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the safety series with a focus on digital safety and identity protection. Guest Brandon Kennelly from Trenware, Aftersight’s managed service provider, breaks down practical strategies for protecting against phishing scams, spoofed websites, and identity theft. He explains why phishing attacks have risen dramatically, how blind and low-vision users may face unique risks with inaccessible attachments like PDFs, and why a layered defense approach is essential.
The discussion covers accessible security tools such as Windows Defender and Malwarebytes, the importance of password managers and multi-factor authentication, safe practices for online shopping and banking, and precautions when using public Wi-Fi. Brandon also addresses smartphone security, risks with QR codes, voice-activated devices like Alexa, and what to do if your identity or data has been compromised.
Listeners walk away with clear, actionable steps to safeguard their digital lives and keep personal information secure.

Contact Info
Guest: Brandon Kennelly, IT & Security Expert, Trenware
Website: https://trenware.com
Aftersight
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Website: www.aftersight.org
Producer: Jonathan Price

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Brandon Kennelly (Trenware)
Producer: Jonathan Price

Chapter Markers
00:02 — Welcome and Introduction
02:16 — Defining Digital Safety
04:34 — Unique Risks for Blind and Low-Vision Users
06:59 — Spoofed Websites and Verification Tools
08:33 — Practical Steps for Layered Protection
10:55 — Password Managers and Multi-Factor Authentication
12:52 — Risks of Reusing Passwords
15:21 — Online Shopping and Banking Safety
17:42 — Public Wi-Fi and VPN Use
19:51 — Smartphone Security and QR Codes
21:45 — Accessibility of Antivirus Software
24:08 — Securing Voice-Activated Devices
26:25 — Recognizing Identity Theft
27:25 — Responding to a Breach
29:01 — Final Tips and Takeaways

S204: Safe at Home: Smart Tools and Adaptations with Neva Fairchild

Aftersight — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the Safety Series with a deep dive into home safety and smart tools. Guest Neva Fairchild, a nationally recognized advocate and expert in independent living skills, shares her journey from growing up with low vision to becoming a leader in accessibility at the American Foundation for the Blind and Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind.
Neva highlights practical strategies for adapting the home environment: improving lighting, using color contrast, reducing clutter, and adopting labeling systems like Braille, ScriptTalk, and WayAround. She discusses the value of proactive safety—preventing falls before they happen, leveraging smart home speakers and smartphones for communication, and preparing for emergencies with go bags and labeled medications.
The conversation also explores balancing independence with interdependence: how to ask for help specifically, how friends and family can support without overstepping, and how everyone can benefit from simple safety measures. Neva’s personal anecdotes—like biking as a child with low vision, mishaps with mislabeled medicine, and experiences with chemical safety—bring humor and urgency to the discussion.
Listeners walk away with practical next steps and resources, including APH Connect Center, VisionAware, and 211, to make their homes safer, smarter, and more accessible.

Contact Info
Guest: Neva Fairchild Website: expertsonblindness.com
(Phone number and contact form available on site)
Aftersight
Website: www.aftersight.org
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Producer: Jonathan Price

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Neva Fairchild
Producer: Jonathan Price
An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:02 — Welcome and Series Introduction
01:40 — Neva’s Story: Growing Up with Low Vision
04:50 — First Adaptations: From Cane to Home Safety
06:55 — Lighting, Color Contrast, and Clutter Control
08:15 — The Importance of Proactive Safety
09:40 — Falls and the Hidden Dangers After Age 50
11:20 — Smart Tools for Safety: Speakers, Smartphones, and More
13:45 — Go Bags and Disaster Preparedness
16:40 — Medication Labeling and Avoiding Prescription Errors
20:50 — Safe Storage: Cleaning Supplies and Household Chemicals
22:40 — Knowing Your Appliances and Fire Safety Basics
25:50 — Setting Up New Tools Safely
28:20 — Interdependence: How to Ask for Help (and Give It)
31:20 — Food Safety and Everyday Oversights
33:00 — Resources: APH Connect Center, VisionAware, and 211
35:40 — Neva’s Current Work and Contact Info
37:50 — Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview

S203 Boundaries = Safety: The Power of No with Amy Wilson

Aftersight — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Kim Wardlow welcomes safety guide and advocate Amy Wilson to unpack why boundaries are a core safety skill—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Amy reframes “self-defense” to start with psychological safety: dignity, clarity, and the right to say no without apology. Together they tackle common myths (“I’m not allowed to set boundaries”), how to spot when your limits are too loose or weaponized, and what to do when people don’t respect your “no.”
Key takeaways: clarity is kindness, no is a complete sentence, and accountability is empowering—especially in a community where “instrumental aggression” (withholding help to force compliance) can show up. Amy shares practical reps for confidence (practice out loud, role-play with safe people, set one boundary first) and reminds listeners that seasons change—and so can your circle. Next week: home safety with smart tools and practical adaptations.

Contact Info
Guest/Org: Amy Wilson — Safety Positive Foundation — https://safetypositivefdn.org
Community & Feedback (Aftersight): feedback@aftersight.org
• (720) 712-8856 • https://aftersight.org
Producer Credits: Produced by Jonathan Price for Aftersight

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Amy Wilson (Safety Positive Foundation)
Series Theme: Safety (Week 3 — Boundaries)
An Aftersight Original production

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Welcome & series setup: Safety and boundaries
02:18 — Amy’s background & the shift to psychological safety
04:37 — Biggest myth: “I’m not allowed to set boundaries”
05:43 — Defining healthy vs. unhealthy boundaries
08:09 — “Clarity is kindness” and why it matters
10:28 — Too loose vs. too rigid (and weaponized) boundaries
12:47 — Early pitfalls and the “Beetlejuice” pattern rule
15:05 — Accountability, choice, and the duty of self-advocacy
17:10 — Do blindness and vision loss change boundary work?
19:21 — Techniques to say no (and practicing it)
21:44 — When someone won’t respect your “no”
23:48 — Instrumental aggression: recognizing coercion
26:08 — First win using verbal self-advocacy
28:23 — Hardest boundary defended and healing forward
30:48 — First step this week: pick one boundary
33:10 — Rebuilding confidence & relationships after change
35:26 — Safety Positive Foundation resources & closing

S202 Head Up, Cane Out: Staying Safe in Your World

Aftersight — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the Fall safety series with a conversation on personal and community safety. Guest Jim Pilkington, longtime accessibility advocate and One Touch Self-Defense instructor, shares his journey with retinitis pigmentosa and how he turned his lived experience into action by teaching self-defense for individuals with blindness and low vision.
Jim explores the power of situational awareness, practical self-defense training, and how body language can deter threats in public spaces. He also highlights the importance of advocacy within local communities—from contacting traffic engineers about crosswalk signals to serving on volunteer boards—to influence safer design. Practical tech tools like compass apps and bone-conduction headphones are discussed as everyday safety aids.
The episode closes with encouragement for listeners to take one small step this week—whether that’s reaching out to a local group, joining a class, or introducing themselves to neighbors—as each step contributes to personal confidence and a safer community.

Contact Info
Guest: Jim Pilkington — Assistive Technology Specialist & One Touch Self-Defense Instructor (Thornton, CO)
For self-defense classes in Thornton: Contact Becky Post, City of Thornton Parks & Recreation
Aftersight Contact: (720) 712-8856 | feedback@aftersight.org
Produced by Jonathan Price, Aftersight

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Jim Pilkington
Producer: Jonathan Price
An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Welcome & Series Intro
02:25 — One Touch Self-Defense in Thornton
05:07 — Jim’s Journey with RP & Self-Defense
09:30 — Building Community Safety Connections
13:58 — Advocating with City Officials & Engineers
16:21 — Situational Awareness & Body Language
19:58 — Apps, Compass, and Bone-Conduction Tech
23:35 — Using Compass for Complex Travel
25:56 — RTD Stop Announcements & Advocacy Wins
28:22 — Actions to Take This Week
30:48 — Contact Info & Next Week’s Guest

S201: Personal Safety At Home and in Public with Marty Sobo

Aftersight — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow launches the show’s new 16-week safety series with a conversation on personal safety at home and in public. Guest Marty Sobo, longtime accessibility advocate and host of Aftersight’s new podcast Code Orange, shares practical, real-world strategies for staying safe—whether you’re navigating daily life, traveling, or facing emergencies. Marty draws on his unique background as a former firefighter, technologist, and blind professional to offer actionable tips for home safety, traveling with confidence, and building a personal preparedness plan. The discussion also introduces Code Orange, which focuses on disability-inclusive emergency preparedness, and explores why preparation can reduce fear in unexpected situations.

Contact Info
Guest: Marty Sobo — Host of Code Orange and accessibility advocate
Aftersight Contact: feedback@aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856
Producer: Jonathan Price

Show Credits
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Marty Sobo
Producer: Jonathan Price
An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Introduction to the safety series
01:15 — Marty’s background in firefighting & technology
05:55 — Journey into accessibility and advocacy
07:25 — Lessons from California wildfires
09:54 — Preparing your home for emergencies
12:21 — Low-tech and tech-based home safety tools
14:47 — Traveling safely with vision loss
17:08 — Requesting help when out in public
19:30 — Using Aira, FaceTime, and building a safety network
21:51 — A real-life drop-off gone wrong
24:10 — How Code Orange began
26:31 — The value of preparedness in emergencies
28:58 — Practical safety actions to take today
31:18 — Closing and listener contact info

S116: The Future of Advocacy

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this powerful finale of our 16-week advocacy series, Dr. Charles Powell returns to reflect on where advocacy stands today and what needs to shift to create lasting change. He dives into enforcing disability rights laws, expanding digital accessibility, challenging employment discrimination, and calling both blind and sighted individuals to action. This is more than a conversation—it’s a movement. Dr. Powell encourages listeners to speak up, show up, and lead the next generation into a more inclusive world.

⏱️ Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome & Series Recap
02:00 – Current State of Advocacy
05:00 – Digital Accessibility & Update Pitfalls
08:00 – Employment Barriers & Breaking Stereotypes
10:30 – Reframing the Language of Blindness
12:00 – Leadership Representation & Higher Education
17:00 – Real-Time Advocacy & Taking Action
20:00 – Advocacy Is for Everyone: Allies Welcome
22:30 – Universal Accessibility Benefits Everyone
25:00 – Creating Your Own Opportunities
30:00 – Looking to the Future: The Next Generation
34:00 – Final Thoughts & Contact Information

🔗 Resources & Contact Info:
Dr. Charles Powell
Email: drcharleswpowell@gmail.com
Facebook: Blind But Not Broken
Organization: Divine Vision Consulting & Paralegal Services

Explore Other Aftersight Podcasts:
The Blind Chick
Blindsight
Blind Level Tech

S115: Advocacy in Healthcare

Aftersight — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this heartfelt episode, Kim Wardlow is joined by longtime advocate and educator Melissa Green, who shares her deeply personal healthcare journey as a blind individual navigating a system often unprepared for true accessibility. Melissa talks candidly about a life-threatening overdose due to a pharmacist’s error, fighting stigma in hospitals, and how she advocates for herself and others in medical spaces. From Script Talk and accessible pharmacy tools to setting expectations with caregivers and doctors, Melissa’s wisdom is practical, passionate, and born from experience.
Listeners will walk away with strategies for advocating in healthcare settings, understanding their rights, building a support team, and utilizing assistive technology. Whether you're new to advocacy or a seasoned pro, this conversation will inspire courage and reinforce the value of persistence, education, and self-worth.

Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:25 – Intro to Melissa Green & Today’s Topic
01:35 – Melissa’s Background and NFB Involvement
02:48 – A Life-Threatening Overdose & Systemic Failures
07:17 – What is Script Talk and How It Can Help
09:19 – Advocating for Yourself in Medical Settings
11:47 – Navigating Medical Assumptions & Caregiver Support
16:29 – The Role of Caregivers and Communication
18:36 – Educating Doctors and Dealing with Multiple Providers
21:00 – Building “Team You” – Creating a Support System
23:07 – Legal Complaints, Litigation, and ADA Questions
25:31 – Innovations: Script Talk, Accessible Pharmacy, & Health Fairs
28:34 – Assistive Tech Tools: Be My Eyes, Seeing AI, and More
30:56 – In-Home Care Support and Local Programs
33:22 – Final Advice for Healthcare Advocacy

Youth Advocacy: Empowering the Next Generation

Aftersight — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring and deeply informative episode, Dr. Charles Powell returns to Navigating Life with Vision Loss to tackle a powerful topic: Youth Advocacy. He and Kim discuss the urgent need to equip blind and low-vision youth—and their families—with the tools to advocate for themselves. From navigating inaccessible classroom materials to asserting their rights in higher education and the workforce, Dr. Powell brings clarity, urgency, and hope to the conversation.
He shares real-world experiences, practical strategies for families and educators, and the importance of knowing laws like the ADA and IDEA. Dr. Powell also emphasizes that advocacy is a learned skill, best taught early and modeled by parents, mentors, and communities. Listeners will walk away encouraged to build bold futures, educate others, and create real change—not just for one child, but for the community at large.

⏱️ Chapter Markers:
00:02 – Welcome and Episode Introduction
00:26 – Meet Dr. Charles Powell: Advocate, Mentor, Visionary
02:53 – What’s Holding Our Youth Back? Education, Employment, and Rights
05:16 – Knowing the ADA and IDEA: Advocacy through Law, Not Just Emotion
07:40 – Teaching Youth to Use Their Voice Without Fear
09:52 – Start Early: The Importance of Modeling Advocacy
12:18 – What to Do in Schools That Say “We Don’t Have the Budget”
14:42 – Advocacy is Also Education: Teach the System
17:07 – Roleplaying Advocacy at Home + Understanding IEPs and 504s
19:03 – The Bigger Picture: Policy Reform and Affordable Tech
21:30 – Transitioning from High School to College: Prepare Early
23:56 – Don’t Assume Disability Offices Know Everything
26:21 – A Real Example: Mentoring His Nephew Through College
28:42 – Accessibility Should Be Expected, Not Optional
31:07 – Unemployment and Breaking the Stereotype
33:26 – Advocacy in the Workplace: Proving You Can Do It
35:52 – From Chick-fil-A to Corporate: Don’t Wait to Show What You Can Do
38:14 – The Power of Mentorship and Networking
40:43 – Blind Workers Bring Hidden Strengths to the Table
43:07 – If Employers Knew the Truth, They’d Seek Out Blind Workers
45:32 – Advocacy Creates Market Standards (e.g., Audio Description)
47:30 – Don’t Wait for Someone Else to Speak Up—It Starts With You
49:48 – The Blind But Not Broken Movement
52:16 – Build Your Own Table—Then Invite Others

📲 Connect with Dr. Charles Powell:
Follow Blind But Not Broken on social media.
Connect with Divine Visions Consultant and Paralegal Services, LLC.
His contact info is in the episode show notes.
🔁 Listen to More Aftersight Podcasts:
Blind Level Tech – Accessible tech for independence
Blindsight – Mental health and the blind community
The Blind Chick – Vibrant stories from blind and low-vision guests

State and Local Advocacy: Part 2 – Testimony, Lawmaking, and Turning the Tide

Aftersight — Tue, 27 May 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this empowering second part of our conversation with Julie Reiskin, we dive deep into how advocacy becomes action—especially at the state and local levels. Julie walks listeners through the journey of how a bill becomes law in Colorado, explains the importance of testimony (and how to give it), and shares practical ways to engage even if public speaking feels intimidating.
We also hear the inspiring story of Cindy Vaughn, a deafblind advocate who mobilized her community and catalyzed lasting legislative change around SSP funding. Julie and Kim explore what it means to “keep people afloat, make waves, and ultimately turn the tide”—a compelling framework for sustainable advocacy and social change.
Julie also discusses upcoming trainings from CCDC, and how listeners can plug in, from action alerts to legislator meetings. Whether you're new to advocacy or a seasoned voice, this episode is a powerful reminder that change begins with showing up—and that a small group of committed people truly can change the world.

Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome and Preview of Fall 2025 "Safety Series"
01:10 – Introduction to Legislative Process in Colorado
03:30 – Testimony: How It Works and Why It Matters
06:00 – Committee Hearings, Amendments, and Dead Bills
09:15 – Written Testimony, Video Testimony & Accessibility
11:40 – Meeting Legislators and Story Banks
14:30 – Cindy Vaughn: Deafblind Advocate Who Sparked Change
20:00 – From Emergency Funding to Legislative Reform
26:00 – Pushing Through Discouragement and Being Taken Seriously
30:00 – Measuring Success in Advocacy
32:15 – The “Water Analogy” of Advocacy: Float, Waves, Tide
35:00 – Julie’s Most Encouraging Takeaways
36:35 – CCDC's Upcoming Trainings & Getting Involved
38:00 – Final Encouragement and Call to Action

Contact & Resources:
Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC):
Website: https://www.ccdconline.org
Sign up for training and action alerts

Aftersight:
Website: https://www.aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org

Follow Our Podcasts:
Navigating Life with Vision Loss
The Blind Chick
Blind Level Tech
Blindsight

S112 State and Local Advocacy: Making Your Voice Heard

Aftersight — Tue, 20 May 2025 02:00:54 -0600

In this powerful episode, host Kim Wardlow speaks with Julie Reiskin from the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition to explore the practical steps and critical importance of state and local advocacy. Julie shares her personal journey into disability rights after being diagnosed with MS, and the impact of healthcare inequities that led her to become a lifelong advocate. The conversation dives into understanding systems advocacy, how policies and laws differ, and how listeners can take tangible steps toward influencing change—whether it's by testifying at a city council meeting or signing onto a petition. Julie emphasizes the power of working collectively and offers tips for getting involved, including using accessible bill trackers, attending trainings, and joining trusted organizations like CCDC or NFB. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to deepen your involvement, this episode provides a clear path toward making your voice heard.

📌 Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:25 – Meet Julie Reiskin: A lifetime of advocacy
02:39 – Healthcare, MS diagnosis, and economic injustice
05:05 – How disability can affect employment and dignity
07:28 – What is CCDC and “cross-disability” advocacy?
09:52 – What advocacy really means at a systems level
12:18 – What is a policy? (And why it matters)
14:43 – Steps to begin advocating at a state or local level
16:52 – Real-world example: Transportation policies and Access-a-Ride
18:58 – Understanding who holds power and how to persuade
19:53 – “You’d be a great advocate if…”
21:54 – Local vs. state vs. federal change: What’s easiest?
24:15 – Where to find training, tools, and accessible bill trackers
26:00 – Outro: Part 2 coming next week!

📞 Contact Information
Guest Website: https://ccdconline.org
Aftersight Contact: feedback@aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856
Follow us: Aftersight.org | Subscribe to our other shows: Blind Level Tech, Blindsight, The Blind Chick, and coming soon: Code Orange

S111 Art as Advocacy: Making Visual Spaces Accessible with ted Tahquechi

Aftersight — Tue, 13 May 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this powerful episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow sits down with acclaimed blind photographer and accessibility advocate Ted Tahquechi. Ted shares his compelling journey from a career in video game design to losing his sight after a traumatic car accident, and how he reinvented his artistic voice through photography and tactile art.
Listeners will discover how Ted’s innovative work—like his Bodyscapes project—uses 3D printing, audio descriptions, and Braille to make visual art fully accessible. He unpacks the challenges blind artists face in academic and gallery spaces, explains how storytelling enhances advocacy, and offers honest insights on whether formal art education is necessary for those with vision loss.
Ted also emphasizes the importance of allyship, from writing meaningful alt text to supporting organizations and local galleries that uplift blind and low-vision creators. His story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of inclusive art.

Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:25 – Introducing Ted Tahquechi and the power of art in advocacy
02:53 – Ted’s journey from video games to blindness to art school
05:17 – Creating art that transcends stereotypes about blindness
07:36 – Making photography tactile: 3D printing, QR codes, and Braille
09:44 – Art should be judged as art—not “good for a blind person”
12:06 – Barriers blind artists face in education and galleries
14:31 – How galleries and museums can improve accessibility
16:51 – Shoutout to Meow Wolf and immersive accessibility done well
19:12 – Advocacy in artistic subject matter: subtle and bold
21:35 – The struggle and strategy of reaching multiple art audiences
24:00 – Is art school necessary for blind artists? Pros and cons
27:58 – A drawing class changed a teacher’s perception of blindness
32:22 – Storytelling’s power in making art meaningful and educational
34:37 – How perception and unique perspective create great art
37:01 – Local art shows and community engagement for new artists
39:23 – How allies can help: support, alt text, and inclusion
41:44 – Where to find Ted, his tactile art, and his wife’s jewelry
42:50 – Closing thoughts on supporting blind artists and art spaces

Resources & Links:
🔗 Ted’s work: bodyscapes.photography
🔗 Tactile Art Projects: disabledart.com
🔗 Tactile Jewelry by Carrie Tahquechi: carit.com
📧 Contact Aftersight: contact@aftersight.org
🌐 Visit: aftersight.org for more episodes and resources

S110: Social media and understanding your rights

Aftersight — Tue, 06 May 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Kim Wardlow is joined by Evan Starnes to explore how social media can serve as a powerful tool for advocacy, community building, and change—particularly in the blind and low vision community. Evan shares his journey from discovering digital advocacy on Twitter to becoming an influential voice in accessible tech. They dive into platform-by-platform comparisons, discuss the pros and cons of real-time posting, and offer best practices for accessible content creation. From hashtags and alt text to dealing with misinformation and going viral for the right reasons, this episode is packed with practical tips and thoughtful insights for anyone hoping to use social media as a force for good.

⏱️ Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome to NLVL and Introduction to Advocacy & Social Media
01:00 – Evan’s Story: Finding Community on Twitter
03:00 – Discovering Support and Shared Experiences Online
05:00 – How Social Media Transformed Advocacy
08:00 – The Pros and Pitfalls of Real-Time Posting
12:00 – Platform Breakdown: Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram
16:00 – The Power of Facebook for Advocacy
19:00 – Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok’s Roles
23:00 – YouTube and Mastodon Explained
27:30 – Tips for Responsible and Effective Advocacy Online
31:00 – Collaboration, Group Engagement, and Reposts
33:45 – Service Animal Denials: A Case Study in Viral Advocacy
36:00 – Trends: Alt Text, AI, and Decentralized Platforms
38:00 – Best Practices for Accessible Content Creation
41:00 – Organizational Responsibility in Accessibility
43:30 – Social Media Accountability: What Works and What Doesn’t
45:00 – Advocacy Through Podcasting and Personal Stories
48:00 – Responding to Misinformation with Grace and Strategy
50:45 – Tracking Metrics: Views vs. Engagement Quality
53:00 – Final Tips for Using Social Media Effectively
55:00 – Where to Find Evan and Aftersight Online
56:00 – Tease for Next Week: Youth Advocacy with Dr. Charles Powell

S109: Persistence and Progress: Creating Accessible Spaces with Darcy McLean

Aftersight — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow sits down with Darcy McLean, a Beyond Vision Skills Trainer at the Center for People with Disabilities (CPWD). Darcy shares her personal journey with low vision, the beginnings of her advocacy work, and how grassroots efforts have led to significant accessibility improvements at recreation centers and arts venues across the metro Denver area. Together, Kim and Darcy discuss how to start local advocacy efforts, overcome common challenges, build partnerships, and create change that benefits the broader community. This inspiring conversation emphasizes the importance of persistence, collaboration, and starting with activities you're passionate about.
Darcy also offers practical advice for listeners who want to advocate for more accessible recreational and community opportunities where they live—and how small actions can ripple outward to make a lasting difference.

Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:26 – Introducing Guest Darcy McLean
02:32 – Gardening with Low Vision: Spring Planting Tips
04:55 – Darcy’s Advocacy Journey: College and Early Experiences
07:20 – First Lessons in Self-Advocacy: Philosophy Class Story
09:26 – What is Grassroots Advocacy?
11:29 – Building Change Through Passion for Activities
12:30 – The Thornton Rec Center Story: How Change Started
14:49 – Expanding to Community Presentations and Trainings
16:53 – Collaboration: The Key to Lasting Accessibility
18:11 – Making Yoga Classes Inclusive for Low Vision
20:36 – How to Start Advocacy at Your Local Rec Center
23:03 – Planning and Expanding RecConnect
25:30 – Expanding to Arts Venues Like the Arvada Center
27:32 – How Advocacy Benefits Everyone
29:54 – Long-Term Impact and the Power of Persistence
32:20 – How to Get Involved with RecConnect
33:59 – Preparing to Advocate: Tips and Obstacles
36:13 – The Power of Persistence in Advocacy
38:27 – Advocating for Hearing and Vision Accommodations
40:38 – How Accessibility Benefits Entire Communities
42:46 – Darcy’s Contact Information and Final Thoughts

Contact Information
Email: darcy@cpwd.org
Phone: (720) 340-2088
General Aftersight Contact:
Email: contact@aftersight.org

S108: Family Advocacy

Aftersight — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this heartfelt and informative episode, Kim Wardlow welcomes therapist and advocate Darran Zenger to explore the dynamics of family advocacy in the blind and low-vision community. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience living with Usher Syndrome, Darran dives into what it means to advocate for and within your family.
From setting expectations and communicating evolving needs to building support systems and navigating shifting family roles, Darran offers practical strategies and emotional wisdom. The conversation also explores the emotional side of disability, the importance of peer connection, and the value of mental health support for both individuals and families.

🕰️ Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome & Intro to the Advocacy Series
01:20 – Meet Darran Zenger: Therapist and Advocate
03:45 – Defining Family Advocacy in Context
06:00 – Communication & Self-Advocacy Within the Family
08:05 – Common Family Challenges and Emotional Struggles
10:15 – Advocating for Inclusion in Everyday Life
12:30 – Teaching Children Advocacy Through Lived Example
14:35 – Balancing Support and Independence
17:00 – Advocacy Through Layout, Routine & Environment
19:00 – Empathy, Listening, and Perspective Shifts
22:50 – Adapting to Progressive Vision Loss Over Time
25:00 – Humor and Honesty in Self-Advocacy
27:30 – Tools, Training, and Support for Families
29:45 – Guide Dogs, Children, and Trust
31:45 – Educating Without Exhaustion
33:50 – Mental Health and the Need for Connection
36:55 – Final Thoughts and Resources

📬 Contact Information:
📧 Email: contact@aftersight.org
🌐 Website: www.aftersight.org

S107b "We Arrived in the Middle of Nowhere!!!"

Aftersight — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this powerful follow-up to our transportation mini-series, Curtis Chong joins host Kim Wardlow to unpack the complexities of transportation access for individuals who are blind or have low vision—especially in rural communities. From building meaningful relationships to hiring “biological interfaces” (aka friends and human assistants), Curtis breaks down practical solutions with insight, wit, and experience.
He also addresses persistent issues in rideshare discrimination—particularly for guide dog users—and the limits of current advocacy within companies like Uber and Lyft. Curtis doesn’t just talk policy—he brings it down to the local level, offering actionable advice for anyone who wants to advocate in their town, build relationships with local officials, and contribute as a valued member of their community.
This is an unmissable episode for anyone navigating transportation with vision loss, as well as allies, policymakers, and public transit advocates who want to create a more inclusive world.

⏱️ Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Introduction by Jonathan Price
01:32 – Curtis discusses rural transportation challenges
04:00 – Hiring “biological interfaces” and creative problem-solving
07:10 – Society’s dependence on visual information
09:35 – Aging, low vision, and driving: the emotional transition
11:55 – Issues with on-demand rides and guide dog discrimination
14:23 – Uber’s optional guide dog registration and its limitations
16:52 – Language barriers and the need for better communication with drivers
19:15 – Strategies for being seen, assertiveness in locating your ride
21:30 – Honking horns: the low-tech solution that works
23:59 – Defining independence and managing assistance
26:24 – Real advocacy at the local level: signals, sidewalks, and city hall
28:49 – Building connections: post office relationships and civic engagement
31:11 – Finding and offering value as a blind community member
32:56 – Rethinking transit: big ideas for a better future
35:23 – Wrapping up + Teaser for next week’s episode on family advocacy

📞 Contact Info:
Aftersight
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Website: aftersight.org

S107 “Are We There Yet?”: The Road to Transportation Advocacy

Aftersight — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this powerful and personal episode, Kim Wardlow sits down with longtime advocate Curtis Chong to discuss transportation equity and accessibility. Curtis shares his life story—growing up blind in Hawaii, learning programming in a pre-digital world, and his decades of advocacy work in technology and transportation. He breaks down the evolution of public transit and paratransit systems, and shines a light on how crucial accessible and affordable transportation is for employment, independence, and daily life.
From calling out discrimination at a Minnesota amusement park to being on the advisory committee for RTD in Denver, Curtis offers insights and strategies for effective advocacy—whether it’s using education, documentation, or the occasional hammer when necessary. This episode dives deep into how technology, policy, and mindset shape access to mobility for the blind and low-vision community.
⚠️ Stay tuned for a special Thursday release where Curtis returns to explore rural transportation and more practical tips for getting around safely and effectively.

⏱️ Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome & Episode Intro
00:57 – Meet Curtis Chong: From Hawaii to Advocacy
03:00 – Growing Up Blind in a Sighted Family
06:45 – Music, Perfect Pitch, and the Road to Tech
08:55 – First Jobs & Learning to Program Without Sight
11:45 – Entering Advocacy: Group Therapy, Bravery & Pushback
14:50 – From Rebellion to System Reform in Hawaii
17:30 – Work Ethic, Expectations & Education
20:40 – When to Use the Hammer in Advocacy
23:35 – The Amusement Park Protest & a 5-Year Win
25:50 – The Evolution of Transportation for the Blind
28:00 – Paratransit Limitations & Community Debates
30:00 – Access-A-Ride vs. Access On Demand
33:20 – Budget, Uber/Lyft & Smartphone Barriers
37:40 – Tech Dependence & the Cost of Access
40:00 – Silent Majority: Who Gets Left Behind
42:00 – Preview of Part 2: Rural Access & Tips

S106: Advocacy and Technology: Code, Courage, and Creating Accessibility

Aftersight — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:00:43 -0600

In this inspiring episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow sits down with Zach Tidwell, a Marine Corps veteran turned accessibility advocate and self-taught software developer. After losing his vision due to a traumatic brain injury, Zach found himself navigating inaccessible educational systems and daily tools. Instead of settling for frustration, he became the solution—learning to code, developing award-winning apps like Xanagrams, and advocating for inclusive technology design.
Zach shares his powerful journey, from grappling with depression to creating tech solutions that are accessible to all. He dives into the realities of software development, the barriers within big tech companies, and the potential for AI and machine learning to help or hinder accessibility. Whether you’re tech-savvy, tech-averse, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a must-listen on how to be an advocate, innovator, or even just a helpful tester in the ever-evolving world of accessible technology.

Contact Information:
Zach Tidwell Website: www.zachtidwell.net
Podcast: Going in Blind with Zach Tidwell – Available on all major platforms
Aftersight: www.aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856
Email for Questions or Feedback: feedback@aftersight.org

Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Intro to the episode and advocacy series
01:00 – Kim introduces Zach Tidwell and today’s topic
02:22 – Zach’s military background and life-changing injury
04:41 – Rebuilding life and finding purpose in tech
07:04 – Inaccessible education and turning frustration into coding
09:27 – Becoming part of the solution and coding as advocacy
11:22 – Creating apps for everyone, from blindness to broader usability
13:32 – How Zach taught himself to code and found accessible resources
15:59 – Accessibility as a design choice, not an obstacle
18:23 – Comparing Zach’s apps with mainstream tools like Echo
20:32 – Missing the mark: When apps are only built for blind users
22:40 – Why big companies often miss accessibility standards
24:52 – Code frameworks: Apple’s Swift vs. Meta’s React Native
27:06 – Systemic change through design choices
29:29 – A sneak peek at Zach’s new educational app
30:45 – AI and machine learning: Challenges and opportunities
32:48 – Encouragement for tech-averse users to start learning
34:57 – Zach’s personal testimony on technology’s life-changing power
37:22 – How to report accessibility issues to developers
40:32 – Group advocacy vs. individual advocacy
41:39 – Resources for learning to code and getting started
43:52 – Final advice and encouragement from Zach
46:11 – Zach’s podcast and how to connect with him
48:14 – Closing remarks and where to hear more of Zach’s story

S105: The Law Is on Your Side: Advocating with Confidence

Aftersight — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 02:00:32 -0600

In this powerful episode, Navigating Life with Vision Loss dives into the vital world of legal advocacy for people who are blind or have low vision. Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Dr. Charles W. Powell II, a triple master’s graduate and founder of Divine Visions Consulting and Paralegal Services. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in 2012, Dr. Powell transformed personal adversity into professional purpose, providing legal resources and ADA advocacy to underserved communities.
Together, they explore:
The importance of knowing your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Practical examples of accessibility challenges in workplaces, restaurants, schools, and digital content
The power of self-advocacy and how to recognize when you’re entitled—not asking for favors, but demanding equality
Technology’s double-edged sword: advancements in access, but high costs
How to influence policy change and where to begin if you're new to advocacy
The difference between a guide dog and emotional support animal under ADA
And why blindness is a “diffability,” not a disability
Dr. Powell shares personal stories that will inspire you to advocate more confidently for yourself and others, and reminds us that advocacy doesn’t always mean protests or courtrooms—sometimes, it starts with a conversation or a post on social media.

📌 Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:27 – Introduction to Advocacy Series and Dr. Powell
02:52 – Why Legal Advocacy Matters
05:09 – Dr. Powell’s Unexpected Journey to Law and Justice
07:27 – Founding Divine Visions and Serving Underserved Communities
09:55 – Educating Professors and Institutions through Advocacy
12:18 – Understanding Legal Advocacy and Knowing Your Rights
14:43 – Workplace Discrimination and Real Stories
17:13 – Employers Who Get It Right
19:34 – Equal Access to Technology: Opportunities and Limitations
22:01 – Meta Glasses and Unexpected Accessibility
24:24 – How Companies Can Listen and Respond to Advocacy
26:51 – Social Advocacy: From Lawn Mowers to Menus
29:12 – Guide Dogs, ADA, and Public Confusion
31:33 – Misuse of Service Animal Rules
33:55 – Pride in Presentation and Daily Advocacy
36:26 – Influencing Policy: From Local Change to National Reform
38:48 – Stories from the Past: Generational Resilience
41:10 – Real-World Impact of Persistent Advocacy
43:38 – Where to Start: Resources and Practical Steps
46:01 – Final Thoughts: “Blind, Not Broken”

📬 Contact Information:
Dr. Charles W. Powell II
Founder, Divine Visions Consulting and Paralegal Services
📧 Email: drcharleswpowell@gmail.com

S104: Blinded by the Write: Tackling Jobs, Jaws, and Jock Talk with Dominic Petrillo

Aftersight — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 02:00:20 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow is joined by Dominick Petrillo, a blind sports writer and advocate who has contributed to Sports Illustrated, The Athletic, Rotoballer, and covers the Philadelphia Eagles. Dominick shares his journey of breaking into the competitive world of sports writing, the barriers he has faced as a blind journalist, and how he continues to advocate for accessibility in the workplace.
This episode explores employment challenges for blind professionals, strategies for self-advocacy, accessibility in digital spaces, and tips for jobseekers with vision loss. Whether you're entering the workforce or advancing in your career, this conversation provides valuable insights into workplace advocacy.

Chapter Markers
00:00 – Introduction to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:28 – Welcome to the Advocacy Series: Workplace & Career Challenges
01:50 – Meet Dominick Petrillo: Blind sports writer and accessibility advocate
03:30 – Breaking into the sports writing industry as a blind journalist
05:10 – Networking and making connections in the media world
07:20 – The biggest workplace barriers for blind professionals
09:40 – Challenges in accessibility: Researching and publishing articles
12:00 – Advocating for website accessibility and industry resistance
15:10 – Strategies for advocating with employers and hiring managers
18:50 – Discrimination in hiring: Personal experiences
22:40 – Advice for jobseekers on when to disclose blindness
26:00 – Tools and technology: How Dominick sets up his workspace
30:20 – Mental resilience: Dealing with rejection in the job search
32:50 – What employers should know about hiring blind professionals
35:00 – Resources for jobseekers with vision loss
36:00 – Closing thoughts and what’s next in the Advocacy Series

Guest Information
Dominick Petrillo
Twitter (X): @EnvisionFF
LinkedIn: Dominick Petrillo
Email: dominicpetrillo@gmail.com

Resources Mentioned
American Council of the Blind (ACB) – www.acb.org
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) – www.afb.org
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) – www.nfb.org
AFB Job Listings – Employers actively seeking blind professionals

Connect with AfterSight
Website: AfterSight.org
Email: contact@aftersight.org
Phone: 303-786-7777
Social Media: Follow AfterSight on all platforms for updates!

Join Us Next Episode!
Next week, we continue our Advocacy Series with a discussion on legal advocacy and fighting for equal rights. We’ll explore disability laws, employment rights, and policy changes that impact the blind community. Don’t miss it!

S103 Advocacy Through Education

Aftersight — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:00:57 -0600

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow welcomes Dr. L Penny Rosenblum, a nationally recognized expert in blindness education and advocacy. With over 30 years of experience in research, teaching, and program development, Penny shares her insights on how students, families, and educators can advocate for accessible education.
She discusses the impact of the pandemic on blind and low-vision students, the role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and practical steps for self-advocacy in schools. The conversation also covers key laws affecting students with disabilities and strategies for parents to ensure their children receive appropriate educational support.
Penny shares personal stories, including her own experience growing up with low vision, and offers valuable advice on navigating accessibility challenges in the education system.

Episode Highlights & Chapter Markers:
00:02 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:27 – Introduction to Penny Rosenblum & today’s topic: Advocacy in Education
02:23 – Penny’s background: Living through every phase of blind education
04:04 – Early experiences with advocacy & learning to stand firm
05:46 – The pandemic’s impact on blind students & education accessibility
08:51 – Challenges of virtual learning & accessibility solutions
11:41 – Education in 2025: Current challenges & improvements
13:08 – Advice for parents navigating districts with limited support
19:36 – When to consider specialized schools for blind students
23:09 – Teaching students self-advocacy skills from a young age
26:52 – Key laws impacting blind students, including IDEA and IEP rights
35:46 – The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) and its importance
38:32 – Advocating effectively: Keeping records, finding allies, and solving problems
42:06 – Stories of successful advocacy & self-advocacy strategies
46:10 – Closing thoughts: Encouraging independence and problem-solving

Connect with Us:
📧 Email: jonathan@aftersight.org
📞 Call/Text: (720) 712-8856
🌐 Website: Aftersight.org

💬 Share Your Thoughts!
Have feedback or questions? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us and share your thoughts on this episode.
🎧 Next Week’s Episode: Advocating in the Workplace with Dominic Petrillo – A sports writer navigating accessibility in his career. Don’t miss it!

S102: Self Advocacy with Melissa Fishburn

Aftersight — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 02:00:52 -0600

This is the second episode in our 16-week series on advocacy. In this episode, Kim Wardlow welcomes Melissa Fishburne, an Aftersight board member, to discuss her journey of self-advocacy and the importance of empowering oneself. Melissa shares her personal experiences growing up with low vision, the challenges she faced in embracing her identity, and how she ultimately became a strong advocate for herself and others.
Listeners will gain insights into self-confidence, finding the right resources, and overcoming misconceptions about advocacy. Melissa also highlights practical steps for advocating in the workplace and everyday life.

Chapter Markers:
00:02 - Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:27 - Introduction to the Advocacy Series
02:54 - Melissa Fishburne’s Story: From Hiding Vision Loss to Embracing Advocacy
05:18 - Discovering Resources and Community Support
07:39 - Building Self-Confidence and Overcoming Fear
09:48 - Training and Certification for Advocacy
12:11 - Personal Experiences in Self-Advocacy
15:25 - Common Misconceptions About Advocacy
17:36 - The Importance of Educating Others
20:04 - Handling Pushback and Challenging Situations
22:30 - Self-Worth and the Role of Community Support
24:57 - Recognizing Toxic Environments in Advocacy
27:17 - Resources: Foundation Fighting Blindness and More
29:42 - Workplace Advocacy: Knowing Your Rights
32:14 - Closing Advice from Melissa
34:31 - Contact Information and Upcoming Episode Preview

Key Takeaways:
✅ Know Your Worth – Confidence and self-respect are essential for effective advocacy.
✅ Find the Right Resources – Organizations like the Foundation Fighting Blindness and Aftersight offer valuable support.
✅ Educate Others – Advocacy involves not just fighting for your own needs but also helping others understand accommodations and accessibility.
✅ Stand Firm – Facing pushback is part of the process, but knowing your rights can help you navigate challenges.
✅ Community is Key – Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.

Resources & Contact Information:
📌 Aftersight Advocacy Resources: www.aftersight.org
📌 Email Us: contact@aftersight.org
📌 Call Us: (303) 786-7777
📌 Follow Us on Social Media

📢 Other Aftersight Podcasts to Check Out:
🎙️ The Blind Chick – Top 10% worldwide podcast on blindness & empowerment
🎙️ Blind Level Tech – Accessible technology for blind and low-vision individuals
🎙️ Blindsight – Mental health & wellness in the blind community

Next Episode Preview:
Join us next week as we discuss advocating for yourself in an educational setting, whether you're a student or a parent of a student navigating accessibility in schools.

🎧 Tune in, share your thoughts, and keep advocating for yourself and others! #NavigatingLifeWithVisionLoss

S101 Advocacy 101 with Angela Winfield

Aftersight — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 02:00:47 -0700

In the kickoff to the new 16-week season on advocacy, Navigating Life with Vision Loss welcomes Angela Winfield, an attorney and nationally recognized disability rights advocate. Angela shares her personal journey from being a shy child with low vision to becoming an empowered advocate, passing the bar, and influencing accessibility policies. This episode explores the fundamentals of advocacy, how individuals can find their advocacy style, and why no cape is required to be an effective advocate.

Angela breaks down:
The definition and importance of advocacy
The three key styles of advocacy: disruptors, table-builders, and quiet influencers
How to develop advocacy skills (communication, self-awareness, strategy)
The role of empathy in advocacy
Legal foundations: ADA, Air Carrier Access Act, Fair Housing Act
Everyday self-advocacy tips and how to handle difficult situations (e.g., public accommodations, Uber guide dog refusals)
Her personal "aha moment" of independence while studying abroad
Angela’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and breaking barriers, making this a must-listen for anyone navigating life with vision loss or looking to become a stronger advocate.

Chapter Markers
00:00 – Intro to the New Advocacy Series
00:27 – Welcome Back! New Format for 2025
01:30 – Guest Introduction: Angela Winfield
02:53 – Angela’s Personal Journey into Advocacy
07:27 – Angela’s "Aha Moment" in the Airport
09:29 – Defining Advocacy & Its Importance
11:47 – The Three Styles of Advocacy
16:33 – Building Advocacy Skills: Communication & Empathy
23:21 – The Role of Empathy in Advocacy
27:47 – Key Laws & Regulations for Blind Advocates
32:24 – Steps to Start an Advocacy Effort
34:39 – Navigating Everyday Advocacy Situations
36:48 – Challenges Blind Advocates Face & Overcoming Stereotypes
42:19 – Final Thoughts & How to Get Involved
45:30 – Where to Find Angela & Closing Remarks

Connect with Angela Winfield
Website: AngelaWinfield.com
LinkedIn: Angela Winfield

Upcoming Episode
Next week, the advocacy series continues with a deep dive into self-empowerment and personal advocacy strategies. Learn how to confidently advocate for yourself in various situations and strengthen your voice!

🔔 Subscribe to Navigating Life with Vision Loss and check out our other Aftersight podcasts:
Blindsight (Mental Health & Blindness)
Blind Level Tech (Accessible Technology)
The Blind Chick (Blind Culture & Community)
📢 Share this episode with friends and leave a review to support the show!

New look for NLVL 2025

Aftersight — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:00:50 -0700

Episode Title: Looking Ahead to 2025
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Jonathan Price

Episode Overview:
In this special New Year’s episode, host Kim Wardlow is joined by Aftersight Podcast Producer Jonathan Price to discuss exciting changes coming to Navigating Life with Vision Loss and updates on Aftersight's other podcasts. Jonathan shares insights into NLVL’s new seasonal format, the topics for the Spring and Fall 2025 seasons, and how listeners can contribute questions and guest suggestions. They also highlight Aftersight’s other podcasts (Blind Level Tech, The Blind Chick, and Blindsight) and tease collaborations, live events, and outreach plans for 2025.

Key Highlights:
Seasonal Format for NLVL: Starting March 2025, NLVL will adopt a seasonal structure with two 16-episode seasons per year, focusing on advocacy in Spring and safety in Fall.
Call for Listener Input: Encouragement for listeners to submit questions, topic ideas, and guest suggestions.
Other Aftersight Podcasts: Updates on Blind Level Tech, The Blind Chick, and Blindsight, including their unique focuses and growing global recognition.
Upcoming Initiatives: Plans for live events, conference appearances, expanded social media presence, and community outreach sessions in 2025.

Chapter Markers:
00:29 – Introduction and holiday reflections with Jonathan Price.
04:46 – Overview of changes to Navigating Life with Vision Loss.
07:39 – Details on the new seasonal format and Spring 2025 advocacy focus.
13:22 – Highlights from Aftersight’s other podcasts.
20:09 – Community outreach plans and feedback opportunities.
23:06 – Closing thoughts on upcoming programming and a Happy New Year.

Yearly planning and Goal Setting

Aftersight — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 02:00:48 -0700

Episode Title: New Year, New Goals
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Charlie Kramer

Episode Overview:
In this special New Year’s Eve episode, host Kim Wardlow is joined by guest Charlie Kramer to discuss setting meaningful and achievable goals for 2025. They delve into strategies for creating effective goals, tracking progress, and managing challenges like fear of failure and unexpected obstacles. Charlie shares his personal experiences and insights on balancing ambition with grace and offers practical tools for staying accountable and focused throughout the year.

Key Highlights:
Reflecting on 2024: Kim and Charlie discuss looking back at accomplishments and lessons learned.
Breaking Down Goals: Tips on setting specific, measurable goals with smaller benchmarks.
Prioritization: Distinguishing between present priorities and long-term goals.
Accountability Tools: How to leverage apps, coaches, or trusted friends to stay on track.
Failure as Growth: Embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and move forward.
Kindness and Courage: Encouraging self-compassion and bravery in setting and pursuing goals.

Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Introduction and episode overview.
01:35 – Guest introduction: Charlie Kramer’s reflections on 2024 and personal milestones.
03:46 – Goals vs. resolutions: A fresh approach to New Year planning.
07:40 – Setting specific goals and breaking them into smaller steps.
11:30 – Categorizing goals and identifying present priorities.
15:22 – Accountability strategies and tools for success.
19:22 – Flexibility in the face of challenges and reframing failure.
23:41 – Reassessing and adjusting goals over time.
27:43 – Writing goals down: The key to clarity and focus.
31:17 – Final advice: Be kind and courageous with yourself.

Staying Connected with Family Durning the Holidays

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 02:00:41 -0700

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes Bill Lundgren back to discuss strategies for staying connected with loved ones during the holiday season. They explore how vision loss impacts relationships, share insights on overcoming barriers, and discuss the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and embracing technology to maintain meaningful connections.
Kim also expresses gratitude to all who donated on Colorado Gives Day, emphasizing the support it provides for Aftersight's programs, including virtual book clubs, peer support groups, and white cane distribution.

Chapter Markers:
00:05 - Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
02:21 - Vision loss and its impact on relationships
04:25 - Circles of connection: Maintaining relationships
06:42 - Asking for help: Changing perspectives
10:21 - Overcoming internal barriers to connection
12:41 - Initiating and deepening relationships
17:03 - Balancing effort in relationships
18:48 - Using technology to stay connected
21:02 - Adapting to changing relationships
25:08 - Levels of intimacy and connection
27:36 - Choosing which relationships to nurture
30:02 - Closing thoughts and upcoming episodes

Contact Information:
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org

Shopping Made Easy

Aftersight — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 02:00:21 -0700

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow is joined by Penn Street from The Blind Chick Podcast to explore strategies for making holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable for those with low vision. From the accessibility challenges of online shopping to the benefits of shopping local and personalized gift ideas, Penn shares her insights and experiences. They discuss using assistive technologies like Be My Eyes, the joy of giving experiences over material gifts, and the importance of taking care of yourself during the holiday season.

The episode also highlights Colorado Gives Day and encourages listeners to consider charitable giving as a meaningful holiday gift.

Chapter Markers
00:31 – Introduction and Colorado Gives Day
02:07 – Welcoming Guest Penn Street and the Holiday Spirit
03:08 – Challenges and Strategies for In-Person Shopping
04:07 – Charitable Giving as a Holiday Gift
05:45 – Benefits of Online Shopping and Accessibility Challenges
09:13 – Personalizing Gift Lists and Using Technology
12:00 – Navigating Tactile and Sentimental Gifts
16:00 – Funny Anecdotes from Shopping Experiences
17:23 – Accessibility Issues in Online Shopping Platforms
21:02 – Giving Experiences and Non-Material Gifts
26:20 – Personalizing Strategies for Stress-Free Shopping
30:11 – Self-Care During the Holidays
32:12 – Closing Thoughts and Holiday Wishes

Contact Information
Aftersight
Website: aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org

Guest Contact
Penn Street: Co-host of The Blind Chick Podcast

Holiday Cooking: Taste Without Sight

Aftersight — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 02:00:44 -0700

Episode Title: Holiday Cooking: Taste Without Sight

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow sits down with Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, to discuss adaptive tools, techniques, and tips for holiday cooking with vision loss. Debra shares her expertise on making cooking safe, enjoyable, and accessible while helping listeners maintain traditions and create memorable meals. From mastering mashed potatoes to baking perfect pies, this episode offers practical advice to navigate the kitchen confidently.
Debra also highlights tools available on The Blind Kitchen's website, including the boil alert disc, adaptive measuring spoons, locking lid pans, and more. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or perfecting a favorite family recipe, this episode inspires listeners to embrace cooking despite vision challenges.
Additionally, Kim reminds listeners to support Aftersight for Colorado Gives Day on December 10th. Donations can be pre-scheduled at ColoradoGives.org by searching for Aftersight.

Contact Information:

Aftersight: Visit ColoradoGives.org and search for Aftersight to donate or learn more.
The Blind Kitchen: Explore tools, recipes, and tips at TheBlindKitchen.com.

Chapter Markers:
00:10 - Introduction: Aftersight and Colorado Gives Day
00:29 - Welcome to the Holiday Series
01:37 - Meet Debra Erickson
01:59 - Overview of The Blind Kitchen
03:06 - Addressing Safety Concerns
03:51 - Relying on Non-Visual Senses in Cooking
04:40 - Tools That Make Cooking Accessible
06:11 - Holiday Gift Ideas for Cooks with Vision Loss
08:21 - The Science Behind the Boil Alert Disc
09:14 - Adaptive Measuring Tools
13:03 - Non-Tool Cooking Tips and Techniques
16:11 - Cooking a Holiday Staple: Mashed Potatoes
24:12 - Maintaining Identity Through Cooking
25:36 - Baking Pies with Vision Loss
31:26 - Hosting Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Meals
35:01 - Traditional Holiday Dishes
36:24 - New Year’s Recipes and Traditions
37:27 - Final Tips and Words of Encouragement
39:17 - Cooking on Different Stove Types
40:09 - Closing and Resources

Enjoy this holiday-themed episode as you navigate life with vision loss and create delightful meals for your loved ones!

Family Gatherings and Finding Joy: Navigating the Holidays with Vision Loss

Aftersight — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 02:00:26 -0700

Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Bill Lundgren, host of Blindsight podcast and licensed psychotherapist, to discuss navigating family gatherings during the holiday season. The conversation covers managing family dynamics, setting boundaries, and finding joy in changing traditions while living with vision loss.

Chapter Markers
00:30 - Introduction to the holiday series and today’s topic.
02:29 - Overview of Blindsight podcast and its focus on mental health.
03:43 - Challenges of family dynamics during the holidays.
06:08 - Managing family roles and past behavioral patterns.
09:15 - Preparing for gatherings and setting boundaries.
13:32 - Coping with changes in loved ones like aging or memory loss.
17:21 - Handling reactions when attending with vision changes.
25:49 - Finding joy in new holiday experiences and traditions.
29:41 - Closing thoughts on flexibility and embracing challenges.

? Support Aftersight and Navigating Life with Vision Loss!
Contact: Call us at (720) 712-8856 or email feedback@aftersight.org.
Donate: Participate in Colorado Gives Day or schedule your early donation at ColoradoGivesDay.org by searching for Aftersight.
Your generosity helps keep these resources free and supports programs like virtual book clubs, white canes, and more. Thank you for your support! ?

Holiday Episode #3: Accessible Holiday Decor

Aftersight — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 02:00:10 -0700

Join host Kim Wardlow and guest Michael Sisneros, Aftersight's Community Outreach Specialist, for a festive episode dedicated to making your holiday decorations both safe and accessible for everyone, including those with low vision. Michael shares practical tips and personal stories on enhancing your holiday décor with tactile, olfactory, and audio elements to make the season memorable and inclusive. Whether it's adding scented pine cones, crafting textured ornaments, or arranging lights for visibility, there are endless ways to ensure a joyful and accessible holiday.
Michael, who also cares for his father with low vision, discusses how his family maintains traditions while keeping their holiday home accessible. From a motion-activated train around the Christmas tree to scented ornaments that last for years, Michael brings a wealth of ideas to enrich your holiday season safely. Learn about cost-effective décor solutions, organizational tips, and ways to make your home welcoming for all guests with low vision.

Contact Aftersight:
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org

Colorado Gives Day Reminder
Support Aftersight’s mission by donating through Colorado Gives Day and selecting Aftersight as your chosen nonprofit. Early donations are also accepted, with each contribution helping Aftersight receive additional funds through a donation boost.

Chapter Markers
00:00 Intro and episode overview
00:11 Decorating tips and caregiving experience
05:20 Accessible décor and family traditions
11:18 Tips on lighting, texture, and sound elements
17:42 Using color and contrast in holiday décor
21:16 Safety considerations for low-vision guests
30:58 Favorite holiday memory and closing remarks

Holiday Episode #2: Holiday Travel

Aftersight — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 02:00:28 -0700

In this holiday episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes guest Ted Tahquechi to discuss accessible travel tips for navigating the busy holiday season. Ted shares valuable advice on managing challenges for travelers with low vision or blindness, covering everything from navigating crowded airports to using technology for luggage tracking and communicating effectively with staff. With practical tips and thoughtful insights, this episode aims to help listeners travel with confidence and ease during the holidays.

Contact Information:
Guest Contact: Ted Tahquechi’s websites:
tahquechi.com - for his art and photography.
blindtravels.com - for accessible travel insights.

Aftersight Contact:
Website: aftersight.org
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856

Support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day: coloradogives.org - Search for “Aftersight” to donate and support podcasts like Navigating Life with Vision Loss.
Next Episode Preview: Join us next week for an episode on "Holiday Decor with our special guest Michael Sisneros.

Episode Highlights and Chapter Markers:
Introduction and Holiday Travel Overview – 00:23
Meet Ted Tahquechi – 01:12
Travel Tips for Navigating Busy Spaces – 03:10
Using Technology for Stress-Free Travel – 05:01
Traveling with a Guide Dog – 09:25
Planning for Delays and Layovers – 12:48
Arrival and Navigating Unfamiliar Destinations – 16:00
Booking Accessible Accommodations – 18:16
Common Misconceptions About Accessible Travel – 19:46
Improvements in Accessible Travel Services – 21:11
Finding Community and Resources for Accessible Travel – 26:42
Embracing the Joy of Holiday Travel – 29:40

Holiday Episode #1: Staff Traditions

Aftersight — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:00:36 -0700

Join Kim Wardlow, your host, along with the Aftersight team in the first episode of our 8-week holiday series, "Home for the Holidays." As we kick off the season, the team shares their unique holiday traditions, favorite songs and movies, and the cherished memories that bring warmth to the season. From nostalgic ornaments to the art of making tamales, you'll hear stories that highlight the diversity of holiday customs and the ways we each celebrate. This episode invites listeners to connect and share their own traditions with us.

Contact Information:
Email: contact@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856 (Aftersight)
We’d love to hear your unique holiday traditions, or if you have questions for our hosts and guests throughout the holiday series, please reach out!

Chapter Markers:
00:09 – Opening and Introduction to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:26 – Kim Wardlow introduces the holiday series and topic overview
01:00 – Team introductions and favorite holiday songs and movies
08:00 – Discussions on family holiday traditions and festive foods
18:52 – Personal stories of memorable holiday meals and customs
30:12 – Cultural holiday celebrations and unique family practices
35:56 – Christmas tree traditions and decorating fun
41:00 – Closing remarks and next week’s episode teaser on family gatherings

Colorado Gives Day Information:
As part of the holiday season, please consider participating in Colorado Gives Day by donating to Aftersight. Simply visit coloradogivesday.org and search for "Aftersight" to support our mission. Your donation will help us continue to create meaningful content and support the low-vision community.

Join us next week with guest Ted Tahquechi As we dive into travel and understanding that travel, as someone who is blind, can be quite difficult. But don't worry, we'll steer you in the right way.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Aftersight, and thank you for being part of our community!

This is a Disaster

Aftersight — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 02:00:58 -0600

In this final episode of our emergency preparedness series, Navigating Life with Vision Loss host Kim Wardlow speaks with Monika Weber, Boulder County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, and Ryan Airey from the Office of Recovery and Resiliency. They cover essential steps for recovery post-evacuation and sheltering in place. The discussion offers practical tips for preparing go-bags, understanding your insurance, and accessing shelters, ensuring everyone, especially those with disabilities, has the resources they need to navigate emergencies confidently.
Aftersight Contact Information
Email: contact@aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Boulder County Disaster Hotline: 303-441-1000
Help Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day by donating at Colorado Gives Day.
Stay tuned as we kick off our holiday series with topics from family traditions to travel and mental health. Thank you for joining us in preparing for a safer tomorrow!
Introduction and Recap of Preparedness Series — 00:30 - 01:50
Meet Ryan Airey and His Role in Recovery — 01:54 - 02:40
Evacuation Shelters and Accessibility — 03:14 - 06:30
Service Animals and Pets in Shelters — 08:04 - 09:50
Sheltering in Place Preparations — 10:11 - 12:30
Adapting Homes for Shelter-in-Place Scenarios — 12:37 - 15:00
Planning for Delayed Emergency Response — 16:13 - 17:35
Insurance Preparedness — 20:27 - 23:58
FEMA's Role in Response and Recovery — 24:30 - 26:54
Navigating Disaster Recovery Centers — 28:06 - 29:58
Final Tips for Disaster Preparation — 33:53 - 35:40
Conclusion and Upcoming Holiday Series — 36:50 - End

Different Types of Disasters

Aftersight — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:00:59 -0600

In this conversation, Kim Wardlow and Monika Weber discuss the importance of emergency preparedness, focusing on evacuation planning, transportation options, and the need for a support system. They emphasize the significance of pre-planning for evacuations, especially in areas prone to wildfires and other disasters. The discussion also covers the importance of preparing for cold weather emergencies and the need for families to have clear communication and plans in place. Additionally, they touch on post-evacuation recovery and the resources available for those affected by disasters.
Takeaways
Evacuation planning involves knowing transportation options.
Public transportation may not operate during emergencies.
Building a support system with neighbors is essential.
Practice evacuation plans with pets to ensure safety.
Prepare for cold weather emergencies with adequate supplies.
Create a list of essential items to take during evacuation.
Communication is crucial during evacuation situations.
Consider alternative transportation methods if needed.
Know your evacuation routes ahead of time.
Post-evacuation recovery can be a lengthy process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
00:56 Planning for Evacuation
03:57 Transportation and Support Systems
07:14 Evacuation Planning for Families and Pets
14:06 Preparing for Cold Weather Emergencies
29:03 Post-Evacuation Considerations

Building a Personal Emergency Plan

Aftersight — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 02:00:45 -0600

In this episode, Kim Wardlow and Monika Weber discuss the critical topic of emergency preparedness. They explore the importance of being prepared for various disasters, the role of community support, and the necessity of understanding alert systems. Monika shares her journey into emergency management and highlights common hazards faced in the Boulder area, emphasizing the need for personal preparedness and actionable steps individuals can take to ensure their safety and that of their community.
Takeaways
Emergency preparedness can seem overwhelming, but is essential.
Community support is crucial during emergencies.
Understanding local alert systems can save lives.
Assessing personal risks helps in creating effective plans.
Having a backup plan is vital for safety.
Preparedness should be a communal effort.
Sign up for alerts to stay informed during emergencies.
Take small, actionable steps towards preparedness.
It's important to know your resources and support systems.
Every step taken towards preparedness is a step in the right direction.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
02:00 Monika Weber's Journey into Emergency Management
03:27 Common Disasters and Preparedness Strategies
06:08 The Importance of Community Support in Emergencies
07:14 Understanding Alert Systems
21:22 Actionable Steps for Personal Preparedness

Staying Safe: Navigating Emergencies Beyond Home

Aftersight — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 02:00:41 -0600

Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Navigating Life with Vision Loss*, host Kim Wardlow and accessibility advocate Liz Bottner focus on how you can stay prepared during emergencies in public spaces. Liz shares practical tips for you, like using Aira, Be My Eyes, and local emergency alerts to stay informed and navigate unfamiliar situations. She also shares personal experiences, offering insights on how you can stay calm and flexible when things get stressful.
Share your own emergency tips and tune in for more helpful advice on staying prepared this month! Feedback@aftersight.org or call us at (720)712-8856
Takeaways
Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
Public spaces can present unique challenges during emergencies.
Technology can aid in receiving emergency alerts and navigating unfamiliar areas.
Asking for help is vital in emergency situations.
Advocacy is necessary for improving accessibility in emergency preparedness.
Real-life experiences can inform better practices for emergency situations.
Flexibility and grace are important during stressful emergencies.
Ride share services must be held accountable for service animal policies.
Community involvement can enhance emergency preparedness efforts.
Regularly familiarize yourself with emergency exits and routes in unfamiliar places.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
01:31 Accessibility Challenges in Public Spaces
05:30 Navigating Emergencies with Low Vision
07:01 Real-Life Emergency Experiences
11:11 The Importance of Asking for Help
17:06 Dealing with Ride Share Issues
25:01 Advocacy for Emergency Preparedness
30:05 Utilizing Technology for Safety
34:13 Final Thoughts on Emergency Preparedness

Emergency Preparedness for the Blind Community: Liz Bottner Part 1

Aftersight — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:00:07 -0600

You know you have questions for us so why not ask them Give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. In this conversation...
Kim Wardlow and Liz Bottner discuss the critical aspects of emergency preparedness, particularly for individuals with low vision or disabilities. They emphasize the importance of having a well-organized emergency kit, the need for a support network, and strategies for interacting with emergency responders. The discussion also highlights the necessity of flexibility in planning and the importance of regularly reviewing and updating emergency supplies.
Takeaways
Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
Being prepared is an ongoing process, not a one-time task.
Having a go bag with essential items is vital for emergencies.
Regularly check and update your emergency supplies.
Establish a support network for emergencies.
Communicate your needs to emergency responders in advance.
Flexibility is key in emergency situations.
Include items for pets in your emergency kit.
Utilize accessible formats for important documents.
Give yourself grace and be open to the unexpected in emergencies.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
06:40 Home Organization for Emergencies
14:44 Essential Items for Your Emergency Bag
19:39 Building a Support Network
23:15 Interacting with Emergency Responders
26:48 Flexibility in Emergency Planning

Womens Fashion, Hygiene and All The Other Things

Aftersight — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 02:00:32 -0600

We know you have questions. We have answers. Give us a call at (720) 712-8856
In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow and fashion expert Trisha Waechtor discuss the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and empowerment for women in the blind and low vision community. They explore how clothing choices can influence confidence, the significance of building a versatile wardrobe, and essential grooming and skincare tips. The conversation also covers makeup application techniques and encourages listeners to engage in fashion discussions to enhance their personal style.
Takeaways
Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression.
Clothing choices significantly impact confidence levels.
Building a versatile wardrobe starts with a base color.
Comfort in clothing is essential for confidence.
Investing in a good bra can enhance overall appearance.
Hygiene practices contribute to feeling good about oneself.
Simple skincare routines can be effective and inexpensive.
Makeup application techniques can enhance natural beauty.
Engaging in fashion conversations can broaden style options.
Everyone can explore and express their unique fashion sense.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Fashion and Vision Loss
01:31 The Role of Fashion in Self-Expression
11:48 Building a Versatile Wardrobe
20:45 Grooming and Skincare Essentials
28:15 Makeup Tips for Confidence
45:26 Encouragement for Fashion Exploration

Grooming Essentials for the Modern Man

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 02:00:01 -0600

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you have questions for Kim or any of our guests, give us a call at (720) 712-8856. In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss...
...host Kim Wardlow and guest Tricia Waechter discuss the importance of men's fashion and grooming. They explore how dressing well can boost confidence, the significance of fit in clothing, and practical grooming tips for men, especially those with vision loss. The conversation emphasizes the psychological benefits of looking sharp and provides actionable advice on building a versatile wardrobe, maintaining personal hygiene, and expressing individuality through style.
Takeaways
Dressing sharp builds confidence for men.
Fit is really important in men's fashion.
Invest in a dark charcoal suit for versatility.
Make your life simple with color choices.
Prepare your outfit the night before to reduce stress.
Cleanliness is key for grooming routines.
Use an electric razor for easy shaving.
Regular haircuts keep you looking sharp and tidy.
Shoe care is essential for a polished look.
Express yourself through your hairstyle and clothing choices.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Men's Fashion and Grooming
16:10 Grooming Essentials for Men
24:24 Expressing Yourself Through Style

Fashion as a Form of Self-Expression

Aftersight — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:00:10 -0600

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions for Kim or any of our guests, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. In today's episode, Tricia Waechter, founder of Blind Girl Designs, shares her journey from a career in the fashion industry to creating a fashion brand for individuals who are blind or low vision. She emphasizes the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and the need for accessible and stylish clothing options. Tricia discusses how Blind Girl Designs incorporates tactile elements and easy-to-wear features in their designs, such as no buttons or zippers and the inclusion of pockets. She also highlights the significance of including children in accessible fashion and the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in what you wear. Tricia shares practical tips for selecting and fitting clothing, including asking trusted friends for feedback and engaging with salespeople. She also discusses her future goals for Blind Girl Designs, such as expanding their product line and making garments more accessible for individuals who are totally blind.
Takeaways
Fashion is a form of self-expression and remains important for individuals who are blind or low vision.
Blind Girl Designs incorporates tactile elements and easy-to-wear features in their designs to make fashion accessible and stylish.
Including children in accessible fashion is important for their self-esteem and sense of belonging.
Feeling confident and comfortable in what you wear is crucial, regardless of vision loss.
Practical tips for selecting and fitting clothing include asking trusted friends for feedback and engaging with salespeople.
Future goals for Blind Girl Designs include expanding their product line and making garments more accessible for individuals who are totally blind.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:31 Fashion Confidence, Navigating Style and Blindness
02:21 Tricia's Background and Journey to Blind Girl Designs
09:48 How Blind Girl Designs Caters to Individuals Who Are Blind or Low Vision
14:47 Including Children in Accessible Fashion
16:49 Feeling Confident and Comfortable in What You Wear
22:25 Practical Tips for Selecting and Fitting Clothing
30:25 Future Goals for Blind Girl Designs
33:13 Conclusion

Kim Owens: When Your Childs Battles Become Your Own

Aftersight — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 02:00:39 -0600

Summary
In this episode, Kim Wardlow interviews Kim Owens, a mother of a blind child and an advocate for parents of blind children. They discuss Kim's journey with her son's vision loss, the challenges they faced in the education system, and the importance of advocacy and acceptance. Kim shares her experiences with navigating the public school system, finding support and resources, and encouraging her son to pursue his passions. They also touch on the topic of sports and the importance of inclusion and accessibility. Kim is currently writing a book about her journey and offers valuable insights and tips for parents in similar situations.
Takeaways
Acceptance is key in the journey of parenting a blind child. Educating oneself about the child's diagnosis, prognosis, and available tools is crucial for acceptance.
Building a community and connecting with other parents of blind children is essential for support and guidance.
Advocacy is necessary in the education system to ensure that blind children receive the accommodations and services they need.
Involving the child in conversations about their needs and teaching them self-advocacy skills empowers them to navigate their own education and future.
Encouraging blind children to pursue their passions and participate in sports and extracurricular activities promotes independence and self-confidence.
Writing a book about one's journey can be a helpful resource for other parents going through similar experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Shine Festival Recap
02:27 Introducing Kim Owens and Her Journey with Vision Loss
04:21 Impact of Vision Loss on Kim's Son and Family
06:14 Diagnosis and Challenges in Understanding the Condition
08:06 Finding Support and Acceptance in the Blind Community
09:28 Navigating the Education System as a Parent of a Blind Child
10:26 Encouraging Independence and Pursuit of Passions
12:22 Importance of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
14:13 Overcoming Fear and Allowing Children to Live Fully
15:56 Empowering Blind Children Through Inclusion and Accessibility
18:15 Supportive Community and Mentors in the Journey
20:06 Being an Advocate for Blind Children in Schools and Sports
22:01 Importance of Self-Advocacy and Involving the Child
24:30 Parenting Challenges and Resources for Support
26:56 Writing a Book on Navigating Blindness
29:48 Addressing Access Issues in Rideshare Services
30:47 Takeaways and Conclusion

Melissa Cermak Part 2: Building a Support Network on Campus

Aftersight — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 02:00:29 -0600

Summary
In this episode, host Kim Wardlow continues her conversation with Melissa Cermak from MSU Denver about the process for students with vision loss as they transition into college. They discuss the importance of proactive communication with the accessibility office, the accommodation eligibility appointment, and the need for documentation. They also explore the various tools and technologies available to students with vision loss, such as screen readers, magnification, and braille. Melissa emphasizes the importance of building a support network on campus, including professors, peers, and campus resources. They also discuss the opportunities for involvement in clubs, organizations, and student employment.
If you have a question for any of our upcoming guests, let us know by sending us your question to (720) 712-8856
Takeaways
Proactive communication with the accessibility office is crucial for students with vision loss as they transition into college.
The accommodation eligibility appointment is an opportunity for students to discuss their needs and determine the appropriate accommodations.
Students with vision loss can utilize tools and technologies such as screen readers, magnification, and braille to access content.
Building a support network on campus, including professors, peers, and campus resources, is important for success in college.
Involvement in clubs, organizations, and student employment can provide additional opportunities for connection and growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Recap
02:05 Working with the Accessibility Office
06:14 Tools and Technologies for Access
17:12 Building a Support Network
21:24 Exploring Opportunities on Campus
26:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Melissa Cermak: Supporting Students with Disabilities in College

Aftersight — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 02:00:45 -0600

Summary
In this conversation, Kim Wardlow interviews Melissa Cermak from the Access Center at Metropolitan State University Denver. They discuss the services provided by the Access Center for students with disabilities, with a focus on students who are blind or have low vision. They also talk about the challenges students face when transitioning from high school to college and the importance of self-advocacy. Melissa provides practical advice for students and parents, including early planning and exploring college resources.
Takeaways
The Access Center at Metropolitan State University Denver provides academic accommodations and technology support for students with disabilities.
Students who are blind or have low vision may require additional accommodations, such as accessible course materials and tactile images.
Transitioning from high school to college can be challenging, and students need to develop self-advocacy skills and communicate their needs to faculty and staff.
Early planning and exploring college resources, such as open houses and informational sessions, can help students make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
03:00 Supporting Students with Disabilities in College
05:12 Challenges and Accommodations for Students who are Blind or Have Low Vision
09:04 Transitioning from High School to College: The Importance of Self-Advocacy
16:25 Practical Tips for Students and Parents: Early Planning and Exploring College Resources

Cindy Price: Advocating for Your Child's Needs

Aftersight — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 02:00:10 -0600

Summary
In this episode, host Kim Wardlow discusses the topic of education and preparing for school with Cindy Price, an educator with extensive experience in K-12 teaching and administration. They cover the challenges faced by students at the start of the school year, such as finding classrooms, lockers, and navigating schedules. They also discuss the importance of early identification of vision issues and brain processing issues that may affect learning. They emphasize the need for clear communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff to support students' needs. They provide tips for parents on advocating for their child and suggest resources for further support.
Takeaways
The start of the school year can be challenging for students, especially those with vision impairments. They may struggle with finding classrooms, lockers, and navigating schedules.
Early identification of vision issues and brain processing issues is crucial for providing appropriate support to students.
Clear communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff are essential for addressing students' needs.
Parents can advocate for their child by actively participating in IEP meetings, requesting re-evaluations, and maintaining open lines of communication with teachers.
There are resources available for teachers to receive training and support in better serving students with vision impairments.
Establishing a structured homework routine and providing a conducive learning environment at home can help students succeed academically.
Cross-body exercises, such as doing a figure eight with both arms, can strengthen brain connections and improve learning abilities.
Parents can reach out to state disability websites and organizations for additional resources and support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
04:34 Challenges Faced by Students at the Start of the School Year
07:02 Preparing Students for School: Communication and Preparation
11:27 Identifying and Addressing Vision and Brain Processing Issues
17:13 Importance of Communication and Collaboration
20:17 Advocating for Students' Needs
22:27 Creating a Conducive Learning Environment at Home
24:30 Strengthening Brain Connections through Cross-Body Exercises
26:27 Resources and Support for Teachers
28:25 Tips for Advocating for Your Child's Needs
31:11 Closing Thoughts and Thanks
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating life with vision loss. If you have any questions for an upcoming guest, let us know. (720) 712-8856, or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org.

Re-broadcast: Mike Arnold Blind Golf

Aftersight — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 02:00:46 -0600

Blind Sports and Activities with Ethan Johnston

Aftersight — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 02:00:59 -0600

Summary
In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Ethan Johnson, a co-host of Game Changers and a skilled player in Beatball. They discuss adaptive sports and the benefits they provide for individuals with vision loss. Ethan shares his personal story of losing his vision and how adaptive sports have played a therapeutic role in his life. They also talk about the importance of advocacy and finding accessible sports facilities. The conversation concludes with a discussion about inclusive social activities and the importance of communication and inclusivity.
Takeaways
Adaptive sports provide physical, mental, and social benefits for individuals with vision loss.
Advocacy is important in finding accessible sports facilities and equipment.
Inclusive social activities can be adapted to accommodate individuals with different levels of vision loss.
Communication and inclusivity are key in making sports and social activities accessible for everyone.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview of Accessible Activities
05:37 Ethan's Personal Story and Journey with Vision Loss
11:10 Benefits of Adaptive Sports
15:22 Finding Adaptive Sports and Facilities
17:12 Inclusive Social Activities
22:35 Advocating for Accessibility in Sports Facilities
25:55 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim or any of our other host, please email us at feedback@aftersight.org or we can give us a phone call at 720-712-8856 thanks and have a great week!

Inspiring Change: The Impact of Shine Music Festival

Aftersight — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:00:40 -0600

Summary
Shawn Satterfield, the founder of Shine Music Festival, discusses the importance of creating fully accessible music festivals. She explains that while many events meet the minimal requirements for accessibility, they often only consider physical mobility and overlook other disabilities. Shawn shares her personal experience of feeling excluded from ADA sections at concerts and highlights the need for a better approach to accessibility. She emphasizes the importance of creating experiences that are inclusive for individuals with various disabilities, including visual, hearing, and neurodiverse impairments. Shawn also discusses the initiatives and technologies implemented at Shine Music Festival to enhance accessibility, such as sensory zones, silent disco headphones, closed caption glasses, and braille on concert t-shirts. She encourages other event organizers to think inclusively and involve individuals with disabilities in the planning process. Shawn concludes by expressing her hope that Shine Music Festival serves as a testing ground for new technologies and inspires other events to prioritize accessibility.
Takeaways
Many music festivals only meet the minimal requirements for accessibility, focusing primarily on physical mobility and neglecting other disabilities.
Creating fully accessible music festivals requires considering the needs of individuals with visual, hearing, and neurodiverse impairments.
Initiatives such as sensory zones, silent disco headphones, closed caption glasses, and braille on concert t-shirts can enhance accessibility at music festivals.
Involving individuals with disabilities in the planning process and seeking their feedback is crucial for creating inclusive experiences.
Shine Music Festival serves as a model for other events to prioritize accessibility and inspire the use of new technologies.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Excitement
02:31 The Need for an Accessible Music Festival
08:40 Addressing Different Accessibility Needs
14:13 Incorporating Accessibility at Shine Music Festival
24:38 Ticket Information and Volunteer Opportunities
25:08 Barriers to Accessibility in the Music Industry
31:29 The Importance of Trying and Seeking Feedback
35:17 The Role of Volunteers in Making Events Accessible
37:39 Final Thoughts and Call for Feedback
Thank you for checking out NLVL. If you have questions, call us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at Feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week and we'll see you on the hike!

Making Outdoor Activities Accessible: Communication Tools and Buddies

Aftersight — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 02:00:15 -0600

Summary
In this episode, Penn Street, the outreach and development coordinator at Navigating Life with Vision Loss, joins host Kim Wardlow to discuss exploring accessibility in the outdoors. Penn shares her love for outdoor activities such as skiing, paddleboarding, camping, and hiking. She emphasizes the importance of having a buddy and using communication tools like Bluetooth headsets or tethers to make outdoor activities accessible. Penn also talks about the Aftersight Audio Trekker's hike and the benefits of exercise and being in nature. The episode concludes with a discussion about the Independence Pass Braille Trail and the upcoming Shine Music Festival.
Takeaways
Outdoor activities can be made accessible with the right tools and support.
Having a buddy and using communication tools like Bluetooth headsets or tethers can enhance the outdoor experience for individuals with vision loss.
Exercise and being in nature have numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits.
The Independence Pass Braille Trail and the Shine Music Festival are inclusive and accessible events worth exploring.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
02:24 Skiing, Paddleboarding, Camping, and Hiking
08:49 Making Outdoor Activities Accessible
25:17 The Aftersight Audio Trekker's Hike
31:13 The Independence Pass Braille Trail
35:20 The Shine Music Festival
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions, please visit us at aftersight.org and email us at feedback@aftersight.org. You can also reach us by phone at 720-712-8856. Don't forget to register for the audio trackers hike at www.aftersight.org hike.

Maintaining a Good Quality of Life with Vision Loss

Aftersight — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 02:00:45 -0600

Summary
In this conversation, Kim Wardlow interviews Denny Moyer, CEO of the Insight Skills Center and the Curtis Strong Center, about adapting to vision loss. They discuss the initial steps someone should take when newly diagnosed with a condition that will result in vision loss, such as making contact with a rehabilitation center and joining support groups. They also explore various resources available for individuals with vision loss, including community resources, transportation options, and technology. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication and support from friends and family members. Denny Moyer encourages individuals to reach out to professionals and seek help to maintain independence and a good quality of life.
Takeaways
When newly diagnosed with a condition that will result in vision loss, it is important to make contact with a rehabilitation center and join support groups.
There are various resources available for individuals with vision loss, including community resources, transportation options, and technology.
Communication and support from friends and family members are crucial for individuals with vision loss.
Reaching out to professionals and seeking help can help individuals maintain independence and a good quality of life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:02 Initial Steps for Newly Diagnosed Individuals
04:43 Resources for Individuals with Vision Loss
07:28 The Importance of Support and Communication
11:41 Practical Tips and Coping Strategies
14:30 Supporting Friends and Family Members
24:19 Final Thoughts and Messages
26:28 Contacting Insight Skills Center and Curtis Strong Center
28:21 Upcoming Activities and Resources
We're glad you listened to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (720) 712-8856, or you can email us at Feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week.

Facing the Future, Understanding and Coping with Early Stages of VisionLoss Part 2

Aftersight — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 02:00:25 -0600

Summary
In this episode, host Kim Wardlow continues her conversation with Rebecca Shields about understanding and coping with early stages of vision loss. They discuss the importance of orientation and mobility training for individuals with vision loss, starting from a young age. They also touch on the decision to use a guide dog and the need for proper training. They explore the different training options available for children, adults, and older adults, including schools for the blind and vocational rehabilitation services. They also discuss the role of technology and daily living aids in enhancing the lives of individuals with vision loss.
Takeaways
Orientation and mobility training is crucial for individuals with vision loss, starting from a young age.
Using a guide dog is a personal decision, but it's important to have good cane skills before considering a guide dog.
Children can receive orientation and mobility training through their school's IEP, while adults can seek training through vocational rehabilitation services.
Simple daily living aids, such as talking watches and clocks, can make a big difference in the lives of individuals with vision loss.
Technology, such as smartphones and assistive apps, can also be helpful, but proper training is necessary to make the most of these tools.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:07 The Importance of Orientation and Mobility Training
06:01 Guide Dogs: A Personal Decision
09:20 Training Options for Children and Adults
12:28 Simple Daily Living Aids
15:22 The Role of Technology
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life With Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim, please call us at 720-712-8856, or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a fantastic week.

Facing the Future: Understanding and Coping with Early Stages of Vision Loss Pt. 1

Aftersight — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 02:00:15 -0600

Summary
Rebecca Shields, a professional with personal experience of vision loss, shares insights on adapting to vision loss, signs of vision loss, emotional reactions, and seeking help. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out for support and finding legitimate and qualified services. The conversation also touches on the upcoming topics of orientation and mobility, guide dogs, and technology for daily living aids.
Takeaways
Adapting to vision loss involves seeking support and connecting with qualified services. Recognizing signs of vision loss and seeking help early is crucial for maintaining quality of life. Emotional reactions to vision loss vary, and it's important to reach out for support and assistance. Upcoming topics include orientation and mobility, guide dogs, and technology for daily living aids.
Chapters
00:00 Adapting to Vision Loss: Understanding the Journey 04:18 Recognizing Signs of Vision Loss and Seeking Help 10:02 Emotional Reactions to Vision Loss
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim or any of our guest, please call us at 720-712-8856 or if you would rather email us you can do so at feedback@aftersight.org thanks for listening and have a great week.

Medications for Mental Health

Aftersight — Tue, 28 May 2024 02:00:22 -0600

Summary

In this conversation, Kim Wardlow and Angie Flynn discuss the use of medications, vitamins, supplements, and community support in managing mental health issues. They emphasize the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any medication or supplement. Angie explains the four major categories of medications used for mental health issues: antidepressants, antianxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and anti-psychotics. She also discusses the potential side effects and risks associated with these medications. Angie provides information on various supplements that can be helpful for depression, anxiety, and sleep issues. She highlights the importance of community support, nature therapy, mindfulness, and nutrition in maintaining good mental health. The conversation concludes with a discussion on resources for individuals in crisis and the importance of reaching out for help.

Takeaways

Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication or supplement for mental health issues.
The four major categories of medications used for mental health issues are antidepressants, antianxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and anti-psychotics.
Different medications have different side effects and risks, and it is important to work with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage.
There are supplements available for depression, anxiety, and sleep issues, but it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking.
In addition to medications and supplements, community support, nature therapy, mindfulness, and nutrition play important roles in maintaining good mental health.
There are resources available for individuals in crisis, including helplines and organizations like NAMI.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Events
13:12 Exploring Supplements for Depression, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues
26:04 Resources for Individuals in Crisis: Helplines and Organizations

Thank you for listening to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions for Kim or any of our upcoming or past guests, please reach out to us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week.

Conquering Depression

Aftersight — Tue, 21 May 2024 02:00:03 -0600

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Charlie Kramer, a life coach and advocate for people with disabilities, about depression and how to navigate life with this mental health condition. They discuss the definition of depression, myths and misconceptions surrounding it, contributing factors, coping mechanisms, breaking the stigma, and supporting loved ones with depression. Charlie emphasizes the importance of accepting and integrating depression as part of one's life, rather than trying to overcome it. He also encourages listeners to seek therapy or support regardless of whether they have a diagnosis, as everyone can benefit from working through their emotions.

Takeaways

Depression is a mental health condition that affects a person's ability to regulate their emotions.
It is important to seek professional help if you are questioning whether you are dealing with depression or just having a rough period.
Depression can be triggered by biological, psychological, and environmental factors, and it is important to build healthy habits and tools to navigate through challenging periods.
Breaking the stigma around mental health involves being open about therapy and supporting others in their mental health journeys.
Depression can be managed and integrated into one's life, and it is important to embrace all aspects of oneself.
Supporting someone with depression involves listening, asking for their preferences, and providing support at their own pace.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Depression and Its Definition
05:39 Myths and Misconceptions about Depression
10:57 Contributing Factors to Depression
23:35 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health
26:42 Managing and Integrating Depression into Life
29:07 Supporting Loved Ones with Depression

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of NLVL. If you have any questions for our hosts, please reach us at feedback@aftersight.org, or you can call us at (720) 712-8856. Have a great week!

Tips for Overcoming Loneliness

Aftersight — Tue, 14 May 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow discusses the topic of loneliness with guest Beth Gustin, a bereavement therapist. They explore how loneliness can be experienced in different situations, such as loss of sight, pet loss, and human loss. They also discuss the connection between loneliness and grief, as well as the difference between loneliness and depression. Beth provides tips for overcoming loneliness, including seeking support, exploring new interests, and finding community. They also address the challenges faced by older adults and the importance of in-person connections.

Guest links: https://transitioningthroughchange.com/

Takeaways

Loneliness can be experienced in various situations, such as loss of sight, pet loss, and human loss.
Loneliness and grief are closely intertwined, and it's important to acknowledge and express grief in order to heal and move forward.
Overcoming loneliness involves seeking support, exploring new interests, and finding community.
Anxiety can contribute to loneliness, and it's important to challenge negative thoughts and work on building confidence.
In-person connections are often more fulfilling than virtual ones, but starting with online communities can be a stepping stone.
For friends and relatives trying to help someone overcome loneliness, it's important to continue inviting them to activities and be a resource for them.
Overcoming loneliness takes time and effort, but it is possible to rebuild a sense of community and belonging.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Announcements
02:20 Guest Introduction
03:47 Loneliness in Different Situations
05:02 Listener Question: Coping with Loneliness After Loss
06:32 The Complexity of Loneliness and Grief
09:50 Loneliness and Vision Loss
13:07 Differentiating Loneliness and Depression
16:18 Virtual vs In-Person Connections
26:37 Supporting Others in Overcoming Loneliness
29:13 Final Words and Resources

Thank you for listeneing to this episode of NLVL. If you have any qiestions please send us an email at feedback@aftersight.org or call us at 720-712-8856. Thank you and have a wonderful week.

Addiction with Bill Lundgren

Aftersight — Tue, 07 May 2024 12:47:37 -0600

Understanding Addiction and Mental Health in the Vision Loss Community

In this episode of 'Navigating Life with Vision Loss,' hosted by Kim Wardlow, the focus is on mental health, specifically addiction, within the vision loss community. Guest Bill Lundgren, host of the Blindsight podcast and a seasoned counselor, discusses the broad nature of addiction, identifying and addressing various types, and the complexities associated with dual diagnoses, such as depression alongside substance abuse. The conversation delves into how addiction disproportionately affects people with blindness, drawing parallels to its prevalence in the LGBT community. Lundgren emphasizes the necessity of correct intervention techniques, the challenges of enabling behaviors, and the importance of accessible treatment options. Upcoming episodes are teased, aiming to cover additional mental health topics like medication, depression, and loneliness, with an open invitation for listener engagement and questions.

00:00 Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:30 Exploring Mental Health: Focus on Addiction
01:02 Understanding Addiction with Expert Insights
06:41 Identifying and Addressing Addiction
14:29 Finding the Right Treatment and Support
24:12 Empowering Advice for Seeking Treatment
27:04 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Aftersight Announcements

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of NLVL. If you have any question, please contact us by phone or email. (720) 712-8856 or feedback@aftersight.org. Have a wonderful week!

Why We Travel

Aftersight — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:22:42 -0600

Summary

In this episode, Kim Wardlow and Marianne discuss the importance of traveling with vision loss and challenge stereotypes about blind travelers. They emphasize the beauty and enjoyment that can be found in travel, regardless of sight. They also discuss the role of tour guides and the accessibility laws in foreign countries. Marianne shares her favorite travel destinations and experiences swimming with dolphins and stingrays. The episode concludes with tips for traveling with vision loss, including giving oneself time to prepare and unwind before and after a trip.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Announcement
02:01 The Importance of Traveling with Vision Loss
03:05 Challenging Stereotypes about Blind Travelers
04:02 Appreciating the Beauty of Travel
06:21 Overcoming Fear and Hesitation in Travel
08:15 The Role of Tour Guides and Accessibility
10:14 Understanding Accessibility Laws in Foreign Countries
11:28 Choosing Between Organized Tours and Independent Exploration
21:45 Favorite Travel Destinations
23:37 Availability of Sighted Guides in the Caribbean
26:06 Swimming with Dolphins and Stingrays
31:18 Final Thoughts and Tips for Traveling with Vision Loss

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions, let us know by emailing us at feedback@aftersight.org or call us at (720) 712-8856. Have a great day!

Exploring Domestic and Land Travel

Aftersight — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 02:00:45 -0600

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Ted Tahquechi, a blind photographer, travel influencer, disability advocate, and photo educator. They discuss domestic and land travel, accessibility in hotels and other establishments, and Ted's experiences traveling with his guide dog, Fauna. Ted shares tips for blind and visually impaired individuals who want to start traveling, including recommendations for accessible destinations in Colorado. They also talk about Ted's photography work, including his Landscapes of the Body series and his partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts and Redline Contemporary Arts Center.

Takeaways

Ted Tahquechi, a blind photographer and travel influencer, shares his experiences and tips for domestic and land travel.
Accessibility in hotels and other establishments is important for visually impaired travelers, and Ted works to raise awareness and improve accessibility.
Ted's website, blindtravels.com, provides resources, educational videos, and reviews for blind and visually impaired travelers.
Ted's photography work includes the Landscapes of the Body series, which explores the human form, and a partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts and Redline Contemporary Arts Center.
Ted has received a Flight for Sight travel grant to create tactile prints and promote social commentary on blindness and visual impairment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview
06:53 Improving Accessibility in Hotels and Establishments
13:40 Tips for Blind and Visually Impaired Travelers
25:06 Partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 720-712-8856, or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have an amazing week.

Navigating Airports with Vision Loss: Tips and Tricks

Aftersight — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 02:00:31 -0600

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Maryann Migliorelli, a seasoned traveler who shares her experiences and tips for navigating airports with vision loss. They discuss topics such as airport assistance, seating on planes, and traveling with a guide dog. Maryann emphasizes the importance of not letting fear or accessibility challenges prevent individuals from experiencing the joy of travel. She encourages listeners to ask for help, be prepared with necessary documentation, and advocate for their needs. The episode ends with a preview of upcoming episodes, featuring discussions on land travel and the importance of exploring the world.

Takeaways

Ask for assistance when navigating airports and be prepared with necessary documentation.
Choose seating near the front of the plane for easier navigation.
Pre-board if needed, and don't be afraid to ask for help or decline excessive assistance.
Advocate for your needs and don't let fear or accessibility challenges prevent you from traveling.
Upcoming episodes will cover land travel and the importance of exploring the world.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Guest
13:58 Airport Travel: Tips and Tricks
25:52 Traveling with a Guide Dog
33:09 Encouragement to Travel and Preview of Upcoming Episodes

Thank you for listening to Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any more questions we would love to hear them. Call us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org

Cruising with Sue

Aftersight — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 02:00:42 -0600

Summary

In this episode, Sue Slater from Presto Magic Travel provides tips and advice on traveling and cruising with vision loss. The conversation covers various topics related to travel, including exploring smaller cities in the United States, preparing for an Alaskan cruise, navigating the ship and finding your way, accessibility services on cruise ships, different types of cruises, shore excursions and exploring ports, choosing the length of a cruise, participating in activities and shows, capturing memories and using technology, traveling with a guide dog on a cruise, getting to and from the departure port, assistance from Presto Magic Travel, favorite cruises, and future travel plans.

Takeaways

Consider exploring smaller cities in the United States for unique opportunities and accessibility for the visually impaired.
When preparing for an Alaskan cruise, pack for varying weather conditions and be aware of what is included and not included in the cruise price.
Cruise ships offer accessibility services such as audio describers, large print newspapers, and assistive technology.
Different cruise lines have varying levels of accessibility, with Princess and Royal Caribbean being known for their accessibility services.
Choose the length of a cruise based on personal preferences and budget, and consider participating in activities and shows to fully experience the cruise.
When traveling with a guide dog on a cruise, plan for their needs and be aware of restrictions during shore excursions.
Make use of technology to capture and describe memories, and seek assistance from travel agencies like Presto Magic Travel for a smooth vacation experience.
Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Travel and Cruising
01:13 Exploring Smaller Cities in the United States
06:35 Navigating the Ship and Finding Your Way
07:56 Accessibility Services on Cruise Ships
10:54 Cruise Lines with Better Accessibility
12:01 Different Types of Cruises
14:19 Shore Excursions and Exploring Ports
19:59 Participating in Activities and Shows
20:30 Capturing Memories and Using Technology
22:27 Traveling with a Guide Dog on a Cruise
23:10 Getting to and from the Departure Port
26:53 Assistance from Presto Magic Travel
28:13 Favorite Cruises and Future Travel Plans
29:16 Upcoming Events and Conclusion

Thank you for Listening to Navigating Life with Vision Loss, if you would like to contact the show call us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week and thank you for listening to this Aftersight Original.

Getting Started in Travel

Aftersight — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 02:00:07 -0600

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow discusses travel with guest Sue Slater, who has extensive experience in the travel industry and is visually impaired herself. They cover topics such as planning a vacation, choosing accessible hotels, navigating new locations, traveling with guide dogs, and the accessibility of different countries. Sue shares her passion for travel and highlights the importance of experiencing different cultures. The episode concludes with tips for planning spring and summer travel and information about upcoming events and giveaways.

Takeaways

Consult a travel agent who specializes in accessible travel to plan your vacation.
When choosing a hotel, consider its proximity to the sites you want to visit.
Research the accessibility of your destination and reach out to blind organizations for information and assistance.
Use smartphone apps like Aira and Be My Eyes for navigation and assistance while traveling.
Take precautions for safety, especially when traveling alone or at night.
Connect with travel agencies and organizations that cater to visually impaired individuals.
Traveling with vision loss is possible and can be a rewarding and enriching experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Travel
03:12 Sue's Experience with Vision Loss and Travel
04:32 Planning a Vacation
08:47 Choosing a Hotel and Navigating a New Location
11:26 Traveling with Guide Dogs
13:21 Accessibility in Different Countries
14:15 Traveling to Mexico and the Caribbean
15:11 Safety Tips for Traveling
16:18 Connecting with Travel Agencies
23:12 Favorite Travel Experiences
25:03 Tips for Planning Spring and Summer Travel
26:16 Upcoming Events and Giveaways

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss if you have any questions, give us a call at 720-712-8856, or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week!

Smart Tech In Your New Home

Aftersight — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 02:00:41 -0600

Summary

In this episode, Kim Wardlow interviews Tamara from Unsightly Opinions about setting up a new space when moving. Tamara shares her experience with remodeling and offers tips for designing a new space, including considerations for flow and accessibility. They discuss the use of furniture to support layout and flow, as well as the incorporation of technology in the home. Tamara emphasizes the importance of lighting and suggests options for indirect lighting. They also touch on the use of technology and apps for setting up a home, and Tamara shares her favorite gadgets and appliances. The episode concludes with a discussion on budget considerations and compromises, as well as an overview of Unsightly Opinions and their goals.

Takeaways

When designing a new space, consider flow and accessibility, such as easy navigation and open spaces.
Use furniture and rugs as tactile markers to help with orientation and navigation.
Incorporate technology in the home for efficiency and usability, such as smart bulbs and voice-controlled lighting.
Consider the importance of lighting and explore options for indirect lighting to create a comfortable and functional space.
Be thrifty and creative when setting up a home, and prioritize functionality within your budget.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Announcements
02:04 Tamara's Experience with Remodeling
03:07 Tips for Designing a New Space
06:22 Using Furniture to Support Layout and Flow
07:37 Incorporating Technology in the Home
09:55 Importance of Lighting and Indirect Lighting Options
13:02 Using Technology and Apps for Setting Up a Home
20:44 Considering Budget and Compromises
23:49 Unsightly Opinions and Goals
26:05 Final Tips for Setting Up a Home
27:51 Upcoming Topics and Closing

Thank you for listening to this episode of NLVL. If you have any questions, please call us at (720) 712-8856, or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a wonderful week and we'll see you next time.

Moving Into Your First Apartment

Aftersight — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 02:00:33 -0600

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow talks with Evan Starnes about his advice when it comes to moving into your first apartment. They cover topics such as searching for an apartment, visiting and evaluating potential apartments, filling out applications, the moving process, pre-planning and organizing the space, cleaning the apartment before moving in, organizing the kitchen, adjusting to living on your own, unpacking and organizing boxes, customizing and adjusting the space, and the excitement of having your own place. The episode concludes with an announcement of the upcoming episode and a hiking event.

Takeaways

When searching for an apartment, consider factors such as location, safety, accessibility, and amenities.
Take someone with you when visiting potential apartments to help with navigation and identify any accessibility issues.
Fill out applications on the apartment's website and ensure their online platform is accessible.
Plan and organize the moving process, including taking time off work, gathering necessary tools, and enlisting friends or family for help.
Customize and adjust the space to fit your needs and preferences, and be open to readjusting as necessary.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Feedback
01:28 Recap of Last Week's Episode
04:19 Beginning the Search for a New Apartment
07:32 Visiting and Evaluating Potential Apartments
09:18 Taking Someone Along for Apartment Tours
11:11 Filling Out the Application
14:05 The Moving Process
16:04 Pre-planning and Organizing the Space
19:26 Organizing the Kitchen
20:32 Adjusting to Living on Your Own
23:09 Unpacking and Organizing Boxes
26:16 Customizing and Adjusting the Space
27:32 The Excitement of Having Your Own Place
28:55 Upcoming Episode and Event Announcement
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or if you would rather email us you can do so at feedback@aftersight.org thanks and have a great.

Springing Into Cleaning and Home Organization

Aftersight — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 02:00:45 -0600

Summary

In this episode, Kim Wardlow discusses organization, decluttering, and cleaning with guest Tamara from Unsightly Opinions. They cover various topics such as organizing the kitchen, cleaning techniques, cleaning the bathroom, and organizing the living room and bedroom. Tamara shares tips on using labels, creating efficient systems, and maximizing independence. They also discuss laundry and closet organization, as well as organizing for fun and hobbies. The episode concludes with announcements for upcoming episodes and events.

Takeaways

Start decluttering by identifying items that don't belong, haven't been used, or are broken.
Organize high-impact areas first, such as the kitchen and closet.
Use labeling systems that work for you, such as Braille labels, tactile labels, or RFID stickers.
Create efficient systems and designated spaces for items to maximize independence and enjoyment of your space.
Simplify your wardrobe by choosing neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Announcements
02:05 Guest Introduction
03:01 Decluttering and Minimalism
06:03 Organizing the Kitchen
08:07 Cleaning Techniques
10:16 Cleaning the Bathroom
12:36 Cleaning the Living Room and Bedroom
24:29 Laundry and Closet Organization
27:41 Organizing for Fun and Hobbies
30:24 Upcoming Episode Announcement
31:05 Where to Find Tamara
31:50 Announcements and Conclusion

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions or comment, please reach us at feedback@aftersight.org or call us at (720) 712-8856.

Setting Healthy Boundaries in Relationships

Aftersight — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Setting Healthy Boundaries: An Important Aspect in Navigating Life with Vision Loss

In this episode of 'Navigating Life with Vision Loss', executive director at Aftersight and podcast host, Kim Wardlow, along with her guest, Charlie Kramer, a life coach for individuals with disabilities, discuss the importance, intricacies, and complexities of setting boundaries in relationships, especially among people with vision loss. Charlie emphasizes the necessity to establish clear, healthy boundaries that respect a person's independence and well-being while making allowances for growth and change. He also suggests seeking professional help in order to effectively understand and implement these boundaries. Furthermore, he emphasizes the necessity of finding joy, having fun and feeling fulfilled in relationships, rather than focusing solely on boundaries.

If you would like to follow along with the transcription of this podcast, please click on the link below https://share.descript.com/view/ZE2Yu3OTWs7

00:09 Introduction to the Podcast
00:29 Meet the Host and the Guest
01:30 Recap of Previous Episode
02:56 The Concept of Love List
05:15 Exploring Different Types of Relationships
05:59 Understanding Family Relationships
06:50 Navigating Professional Relationships
07:50 Setting Boundaries in Relationships
16:15 Dealing with Invasive Questions
24:32 Creating and Maintaining Healthy Boundaries
31:32 Conclusion and Contact Information

Thank you for listening to this episode of navigating life with vision loss. We're so glad you were able to join us. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us by using our email at feedback@aftersight.org or giving us a call on our voicemail line at 720-712-8856, thank you, and we'll see you next time.

Finding Love in the Shadows

Aftersight — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 02:00:48 -0700

Relationships and Vision Impairment

Join host Kim Wardlow on an intimate journey into relationships when dealing with vision loss. Featuring a discussion with Charlie Kramer, a life coach for the disabled, and particularly the visually impaired, we delve into the intricacies of romantic relationships. Throughout the conversation, Charlie shares his personal experiences and offers valuable advice on starting, maintaining, and ending relationships when one is either blind or gradually losing their vision. Beyond romantic relationships, he also emphasizes the importance of managing other essential relationships in our lives. To connect with Charlie, you can find him on Instagram or visit his website at www.charliekramervision.com.

We know you have questions, so ask away:
feedback@aftersight.org
(720) 712-8856

If you would like a transcript of this episode please visit the link below:
https://share.descript.com/view/jw7BTDepzoQ

00:09 Introduction to the Podcast
00:09 Meet the Host and the Podcast's Mission
01:22 Introducing the Guest: A Life Coach for the Disabled
01:45 Discussing Relationships and Vision Loss
02:27 Guest's Introduction and His Approach to Relationships
03:24 Understanding and Navigating Romantic Relationships
03:54 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Relationships
05:42 Addressing Insecurities and Fears in Relationships
11:44 The Role of Communication in Relationships
17:51 Recognizing and Addressing Red Flags in Relationships
28:09 The Importance of Physical Intimacy in Relationships
02:28 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. Please leave a 5-star review, as this will help us grow the show and reach more people who may like or need this information. Have a great week and until next time we hope this episode has helped you navigate your life with vision loss.

Cash-Staches and Money Socks: Unconventional Wisdom with Chris Peterson

Aftersight — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:00:51 -0700

Navigating Life with Vision Loss: Episode on Personal Finance and Budgeting with Chris Peterson from Penny Forward

In this episode, Kim Wardlow, speaks with Chris Peterson of Penny Forward about personal finance and creating a budget. They discuss how to categorize and track expenses, methods to save money, different types of savings and investment accounts, and how to navigate through periods of inflation. Chris also provides information on how to work with investment advisors and the importance of finding one that aligns with your needs. The talk includes additional resources to delve more into the topic and ways to get involved with Penny Forward, a nonprofit organization focused on personal finance.

If you would like to follow along with a transcript of this episode, please click the link below

https://share.descript.com/view/IM5DP0VcdE7

00:09 Introduction to the Podcast
00:36 Guest Introduction and Overview of the Episode
01:00 Starting Your First Budget
01:52 Understanding Your Expenses and Creating a Budget
03:34 Adjusting Your Budget and Spending Habits
04:08 Different Techniques of Budgeting
05:19 Dealing with Unexpected Expenses
08:13 Battling Inflation and Saving
09:03 Advice on Dealing with Inflation
13:34 Different Mechanisms for Savings
16:00 Understanding Investment Options
19:29 Choosing an Investment Firm
23:41 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
26:22 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode

Thank you for joining us on this episode of navigating life with vision loss. If you enjoyed what you hear, or you have a question for us, please feel free to email us at feedback@aftersight.org or call our voicemail line at 720-712-8856. Resources:
Website: Pennyforward.com
Phone Number: 1 (888) 332-5558
Email: PennyForward@PennyForward.com

Show Me The Money!!!

Aftersight — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 02:00:26 -0700

Navigating Life with Vision Loss: Kick-starting 2024 with Better Financial Knowledge - Episode 1

On this episode of 'Navigating Life with Vision Loss,' host Kim Wardlow is joined by Chris Peterson, founder of Penny Forward, a non-profit providing financial education programs tailored to the needs of the blind community. The discussion uncovers several crucial financial literacy components like understanding compound interest, the significance of credit health and reports, the importance of budgeting, and the concept of high-yield savings accounts. They also discuss changes in credit report access due to COVID-19, identity theft protection, and the value of having a budget oriented towards actual spending. Kim and Chris highlight the mission of Penny Forward and share insightful tips on financial management for individuals with vision loss.

If you would like to follow along with a transcript of this podcast please click on the link below.

https://share.descript.com/view/X8AXQOqdPdE 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:31 New Year and New Beginnings
01:00 Guest Introduction: Chris Peterson
01:50 Understanding Penny Forward
02:48 Introduction to the Book Club
03:38 The Importance of Financial Literacy
04:49 The Role of Penny Forward in Financial Literacy
06:05 Understanding Financial Knowledge
08:06 The Power of Compound Interest
12:00 Maintaining Credit Health
19:32 The Importance of Budgeting
23:42 Closing Remarks and Preview of Next Episode

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you would like to email us, please do so at feedback@aftersight.org or give us a phone call at 720-712-8856.

Ed Henkler, the Blind Guide

Aftersight — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Navigating Life with Vision Loss: A Discussion with Ed Henkler, the Blind Guide

In this podcast episode of 'Navigating Life with Vision Loss', host Kim Wardlow discusses the journey of adapting to vision loss with her guest, Ed Henkler, also known as 'The Blind Guide'. Ed shares his experiences and insights brought on by his mother's struggle with macular degeneration, leading him to become an advocate for those coping with vision loss. They also tackle the roles of caretaker vs caregiver, impacts on relationships, the importance of continuing life's joys and the value of assistive technologies. Towards the end, they discuss gift ideas for individuals with vision loss as the holiday season approaches.

Got questions or feedback for AINC? Contact them here: Feedback@aincolorado.org
(720) 712-8856

00:09 Introduction and Welcome
00:35 Upcoming Changes and Colorado Gives Day
01:24 Guest Introduction and Holiday Traditions
02:43 The Blind Guide: A Journey of Vision Loss
03:14 Personal Story: Mother's Vision Loss and Adaptation
06:43 The Role of Caregivers and Caretakers
12:09 Navigating Social Interactions and Relationships After Vision Loss
19:29 Holiday Gift Guide and Recommendations
25:43 The Importance of Independence and Normalcy
28:26 Adapting Activities and Hobbies for the Visually Impaired
29:49 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

If you would like to follow along with a transcript of this episode, please check out the link below.

https://share.descript.com/view/9Uy3mvYggRD

The Blind Baker Part 2

Aftersight — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 02:00:07 -0700

Navigating Life with Vision Loss: A Journey with Penny Melville Brown, the Blind Baker

In this episode of 'Navigating Life with Vision Loss', the host Kim Wardlow interviews Penny Melville Brown, the blind baker. They discuss her experiences cooking with chefs around the world and the reactions she received from them. She talks about her favorite Christmas recipes with a step-by-step guide on how she prepares them. Penny also recounts a few accidents that have required her to adjust and adapt to new physical limitations, detailing her personal recovery journey and how it intertwined with her passion for cooking. In the face of adversity, she remains determined to share her knowledge with visually impaired people, inspiring them to reassume their confidence in the kitchen and improve their social interactions.

Website: https://www.pennymelvillebrown.com/baking-blind/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@bakingblind6744

00:09 Introduction and Welcome
00:47 Interview with Penny Melville Brown, the Blind Baker
01:06 Penny's Experiences with Chefs Around the World
06:14 Penny's Car Accident and Recovery Journey
09:22 Penny's Continued Passion for Cooking Despite Challenges
09:43 Penny's Project Completion and Recovery
11:20 Penny's Online Cooking Demonstrations During COVID
12:43 Penny's Recent Accident and Current Situation
13:27 Penny's Involvement with the Talking Newspaper Federation
17:00 Penny's Cooking Techniques and Tips
24:39 Penny's Christmas Cooking Traditions
39:31 Conclusion and Farewell

To follow along with a transcript of this show, please visit the link below.

https://share.descript.com/view/GtPpsK87nlI

The Blind Baker

Aftersight — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 02:00:52 -0700

Navigating Life with Vision Loss: Journey of Penny Melville Brown | AINC Podcast

Kim Wardlow hosts another episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, brought to you by AINC. In this episode, renowned blind chef Penny Melville Brown shares her inspiring journey from serving as a Commander in the Royal Navy to becoming an award-winning author and a blind cooking sensation, all while battling her deteriorating eyesight. Penny shares her personal experiences, immense life challenges, and her determination to bring about a positive change in society's perspective towards disabled people. There's a lot to learn from her amazing food adventures across the world. Penny's story stands as a testament to chasing one's ambition despite all odds.

00:09 Introduction and Welcome
00:32 Upcoming Events and Announcements
00:59 Introduction to Guest: Penny Melville Brown
02:24 Penny's Journey: Early Life and Career
06:17 Facing Vision Loss and Adapting
08:43 Continuing Career Despite Vision Loss
18:43 Transitioning to Self-Employment
23:08 The Holman Prize and Cooking Around the World
32:45 Inspiring Stories from the Journey
34:01 Closing Remarks and Thanksgiving Wishes

If you would like a transcription of this episode

https://share.descript.com/view/ezCg65Yr0p6

You Can Grill That?

Aftersight — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 02:00:50 -0700

Navigating Life with Vision Loss - The Art of Blind Grilling & More with Chris Peltz

In this enlightening podcast episode, Kim Wardlow hosts Chris Peltz, a blind grillmaster who lost his vision to retinitis pigmentosa. Listen as they discuss the creative ways Chris continues to cook, grill, and even hunt despite his vision loss. They address safety considerations, useful equipment, and delicious dishes that can be prepared on the grill, including an unforgettable smoked turkey recipe just in time for Thanksgiving. Chris also shares on his channel, Blind Grilling, and encourages everyone to expand their horizons on what is possible regardless of physical or visual limitations.

00:09 Introduction to the Podcast
00:44 Guest Introduction: Chris Peltz
01:25 Chris's Journey with Vision Loss
01:44 Chris's Grilling Experience
02:30 Chris's Life Story and His Passion for Grilling
05:10 The Birth of the Blind Grilling Experience
08:38 Tips for Safe Grilling
11:26 Choosing the Right Grill
17:59 Grilling Techniques and Tools
24:30 Favorite Foods to Grill
29:59 Grilling for Thanksgiving
36:36 Chris's Hunting Experience
38:56 How to Connect with Chris and Blind Grilling
40:14 Closing Remarks
Blindgrilling.com
Youtube.com/blindgrilling

If you would like a transcription of this episode, please follow the link below: https://share.descript.com/view/kE5M3Tz4JPx

The Blind Kitchen

Aftersight — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 02:00:08 -0700

In this new November we are going to be talking all about food! With Thanksgiving right around the corner and the Christmas holiday season there are a lot of things to be on the look out for when navigating your kitchen. Debrah Erickson from The Blind Kitchen joins Kim on this wonderful episode. If you have any questions please reach out to us at feedback@aincolorado.org. If you would like to follow along with this episode please click on the link for the transcription.

https://share.descript.com/view/yMp0nkIQ4SP

So Much More Than A Pretty Face

Aftersight — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 02:00:18 -0600

Welcome to a special edition of Navigating Life with Vision Loss! In this episode, Kim talks with the amazing ladies from Bold Blind Beauty. This company is amazing at working to bring information to those who are on the blindness spectrum and making it accessible to those who are sighted if they have an interest in the blind community.

If you would like to find out more information about bold blind beauty, you can check out their website at www.boldblindbeauty.com.

if you would like to follow along with the transcription of the show, please click on the link below. https://share.descript.com/view/4Bm5PRSaZpB

Don't Overpay for Your Clothes

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 02:00:36 -0600

Do you like to bargain shop? Do you like to find hidden gems at flea markets, and thrift and consignments stores? We do! We're talking about that and so much more on this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss.

We're changing our name and if you would like to help in changing the name of our podcast Aftersight with Penn Street, please send your suggestions to jonathan@aincolorado.org

If you would like a transcription of this episode, please visit:
https://share.descript.com/view/DSv6YraPS9l

Basics of Skin and Hair Care

Aftersight — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 02:00:01 -0600

Kim is out this week, and Jonathan and Lauren take over the show to talk about the basics of skin and hair care. There is a lot of information in this episode, so if you need the resources, go check out our page www.aincolorado.org/resources.

If you would like a transcription of the show, please click this link https://share.descript.com/view/GLiwONTpncn

The Power of Yes

Aftersight — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 02:00:01 -0600

Growing up we have all heard the words yes and no. However, we don't really understand the power of those words until they come full circle, and we start realizing the power in those two simple words. Cindy is an educator of nearly 30 years, and her experience from homeschooling to juvenile correctional facilities to private and public teaching and administration to now professorship gives her a unique authority to speak to the power of yes. We hope this show helps you navigate your life with vision loss.

You can find a transcription of this show here
https://share.descript.com/view/TXzUgrFNpMK

Walking Your Child Through Change

Aftersight — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:32:17 -0600

Kim Wardlow joins Kim Owens from Navigating Blindness. Mrs. Owens has seen her boys grow and succeed in their respective fields. Her son Kai, however, was to undergo a change that would see him adapt to the very thing he loves. This is a story of advocacy and love of a mother for her son. We hope you enjoy this episode.

https://navigatingblindness.com/
Br> A transcript of the episode can be found here
https://share.descript.com/view/nEmNH7zpnLq

Addiction and Your Children

Aftersight — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 02:00:37 -0600

Are you a parent struggling with your child's addiction? This can be an incredibly frustrating place to be, especially if you don't have the tools to handle it. Aaron Huey is a counselor and Martial Arts expert and gives us some incredible tools to help with our kids and allowing them to thrive. You can find out more about Aaron's work on his website https://aaronmhuey.com/ If you would like to enroll in his parenting class, you can find that link here https://brabapp.com/

For a transcript of this show, please visit:
https://share.descript.com/view/ajILYblRaGx

Keep Your Ear on the Beep Ball?

Aftersight — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 02:00:45 -0600

Swing batter better! It all about Beep ball this week as Kim sits down with Beep Ball Pitcher and organizer Michael Curtis of Mind's Eye. Mind's Eye is a service out of Belleville, Illinois. They are celebrating their 50th year and one of their exciting programs is Beet Ball. If you're curious about how the blind play Beep Ball, you'll want to hear this episode. We would love to hear some of the accessible activities you participate in. To do that, leave a comment below or message us at www.aincolorado/podcast-guest/ We'd really love to hear from you. Have a great week!

a transcript of the show can be found here.

https://share.descript.com/view/rdlqlY0vugO

FOUR!!!!!! Strikin' It Blind Golf Style

Aftersight — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 02:00:27 -0600

We are back, and this week we're checking out the world of golf with Mike Arnold from the American Blind Golf Association. Have you been golfing before and wondered what it was like to play while blind? Mike share his story of vision loss with Starguart's Disease. Don't let that fool you, his ability to strike the ball has made him an incredible golfer. If you would like to check out their website, you can find it below.

www.americanblindgolf.com
Transcript of our episode can be accessed here
https://share.descript.com/view/QFr0Wg14Bre
www.aincolorado.org
www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest.

I'm Goin On A Hike!

Aftersight — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 02:00:04 -0600

Matt Kissane joins Kim to talk about the hike for AINC. We talk trails and sighted guides and just getting out there and talking about being outside. We hope you join us on the hike. If you are listening to this after the hike, we hope you join us next year, as we aim to make it bigger and better than this one!

Erik Weihenmayer Part 2

Aftersight — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 02:00:45 -0600

Erik graces us with his presence again as he and Kim talk about some of the fun things and learning to explore all the facets of being blind and doing fun outdoor activities. It's just about getting out there and trying new things. Enjoy this week.

Erik Weihenmayer Part 1

Aftersight — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 02:00:11 -0600

We are closing out the month of July by having the one and only Erik Weihenmayer. He is an incredible human and has accomplished a lot in his career. From non-profits to world renowned expeditions, Erik has done it all. Part 2 will Kick off August as we move into our leisure month. Enjoy the show!

It's Not What You Eat, It's What You Absorb

Aftersight — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:48:02 -0600

Erik is back at again and this time they are talking about all things nutrition and how to diversify exactly what you're eating. But it's so much more than that. It's not really about "What" you're eating, but rather what you're absorbing. I know you'll find some very interesting things in this interview to take away as you continue on in this journey of navigating life with vision loss.

https://enliveenergy.com/

aincolorado.org

Physical Health Flipped On It's Head

Aftersight — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 09:02:07 -0600

Erik Hansen is a professional coach and trainer with over 30 years of experience. His work with body mapping and understanding that you don't have to isolate certain body part to work them, rather it's a whole stringed-body approach. It will forever change the way you look at physical health, as well as some interesting thoughts on stretching. You won't want to miss this episode.

Morten Bonde: Change Your Mindset!

Aftersight — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 19:47:13 -0600

Morten Bonde is back and this time with Kim as they talk more about the professional side of Morten's journey from LEGO to motivational speaking. Changing your mindset can be incredibly challenging and scary, but a lot of the time it's making small shifts in your thinking to take you from where you are to where you want to go.

Morten Bonde: Change Your Mindset Change Your Future

Aftersight — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 02:00:13 -0600

Well, Kim was out of the studio this week and Jonathan takes over the show. NLVL is so excited to bring on our first international guest. Morten Bonde is a motivational speaker, author and all around awesome guy. In this first episode, we discuss the Personal Development side of his journey in blindness and overcoming vision loss and understanding what to do to move forward. He shares with us his book and a few key points on changing your mindset. I hope you have enjoyed this week's episode. Have a great week.

https://mortenbonde.dk/

https://mortenbonde.dk/mindfulness/
https://www.amazon.com/Sentenced-Blindness-Journey-Hopelessness-Possibility/dp/B08K9FTCJ8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1K896RLMY6AEU&keywords=morten+Bonde&qid=1686760437&sprefix=morten+bonde%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1

https://www.audible.com/pd/Sentenced-to-Blindness-Now-What-Audiobook/B08KBJNBY6?qid=1686760513&sr=1-1&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=BS3124AHWFQK68AFG4MD&pageLoadId=Tum3EUtgdHJSEO8K&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c

You Can't Keep Me Down

Aftersight — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 02:00:08 -0600

Kim Is joined again this week by Maxwell Ivey, and this time they are talking about not being able to keep yourself down as you continue to grow in your professional career. Enjoy this week's episode.

From Carnivals to Public Speaker Part 1

Aftersight — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 20:22:07 -0600

As we draw into the month of June, we are talking about both personal and professional development. Maxwell Ivey grew up running carnivals with his family in Texas and after serving the masses he went on to law school and is now known as "The Blind Blogger". Max is a speaker, author and is still a carnival ride seller. You know you gotta keep those roots deep. We are so glad to have him on the show. If you would like to hear more of Max's story, please go to his site listed below.

https://theblindblogger.net/

www.aincolorado.org

AccessAbility Officer

Aftersight — Tue, 30 May 2023 02:00:28 -0600

AccessAbility Officer is a new program that, even though not in Colorado, still has an amazing impact on the accessibility world and employment. Tanner joins Kim to discuss all the possibilities around getting a job, the necessary training and needs that you will undergo to get the job you want. If you have more question or know of someone who could benefit from their services, please send them to https://accessabilityofficer.com/. We'll see you next week!

"We Come to You" training

Aftersight — Tue, 16 May 2023 12:04:51 -0600

While Kim is on vacation, Jonathan sits in as he talks with Denny Moyer from Ensight skills center. Ensight Skills Center is an organization out of Fort Collins, CO and they assist individuals with visual impairments in the job training and aging well in place. This was quite an insightful episode as they discuss working with employers on training, accessible options, and costs to even training in and on the job site. Enjoy the show. Ensight Skills Center Website: https://ensightskills.org/ Phone: 970-353-9417 Email: info@ensightskills.org www.aincolorado.org

Billy Parker NSITE

Aftersight — Tue, 09 May 2023 02:00:42 -0600

Billy has been on Aftersight with Penn Street and is now joining Kim with the NLVL crew. this month is all about emplyment, how to find jobs, train for them, your rights and many other things. Billy and Kim talk about some of the skills in finding a job that may come in handy like working with LinkedIn professionals to build your resume and make sure you know how to stand out from the crowd. Let us know what you think and lets us know how we can help you. www.nsite.org www.aincolorado.org

Employment And Advocating For Yourself

Aftersight — Tue, 02 May 2023 02:00:23 -0600

We are doing a special re-airing of the interview with Loraine Hutchison from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. We are discussing for the entire month of May the concepts of employment. Enjoy and let us know what you would like to hear.

Arranging and Keeping Your Home Safe

Aftersight — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 02:00:16 -0600

Here is the final episode for the month concerning housing. James is back, and this time we're talking about how to not only keep your home safe but how to arrange things, so you are well taken care of and safe. James moves throughout the house talking about all things from the kitchen to the bathrooms, hallways and everything in between. Please join us next month and we launch into our newest journey, Employment. Have a wonderful week and if you would like to ask a specific question for Kim, email us at www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/ For a transcription of this show please click on this link. https://vportal.aincolorado.org/wl/?id=h9YuVsfow0VHjPy0ULbuHXWemFekdxrR

Housing: Home Maintenance and Repair

Aftersight — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 02:00:30 -0600

For a transcript of this show, please visit the link below. https://vportal.aincolorado.org/wl/?id=BcmMrrWiEBjK3u6os0OilNor2ANi25kB In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow interviews James Daigle of Loveland Handy Guy to discuss home repair and maintenance. They discuss what people should consider when moving into a new house or apartment, such as checking the safety features, like smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and making sure the windows and doors are secure. They also discuss the importance of having someone who is knowledgeable about home repair to help with any maintenance issues. For a transcript of this show, please visit the link below. www.lovelandhandyguy.com www.aincolorado.com/podcast-guest/ https://aincolorado.org/concert-in-the-dark/ https://aincolorado.org/white-cane-project/

Housing: All About Renting

Aftersight — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:34:59 -0600

This is a great episode with Candy Christen and Kim as they go deep into the rental markets and talk about how to apply, advocacy and many other things. If you have any questions about housing, please drop us a line at www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

Housing: Buying and Selling Real Estate

Aftersight — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 02:00:58 -0600

As we move into and brand new month it's time to stsrt talking housing and real estate. This time of year is traditionally known as the time to be a seller in the market. Kim is joined by real estate experts Mark and Holly Mais. They work to answer your questions about real estate and how to go about the process of finding a realtor and going through the processes of buying and selling a home. Mark and holly will be back later in the month, so if you have any questions for them or Kim, please send your questions to www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

Benefits in Action: ALL the Benefits

Aftersight — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 02:00:40 -0600

We're back this week with Jessica from Benefits in Action. Jessica gives a brief history of the non-profit and a great overview of many of their services. If you want to know more about their other services, please visit benefitsinaction.org. www.aincolorado.org/resources www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

Benefits in Action: SSI and SSDI

Aftersight — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 02:00:00 -0600

As we move into the second half of this month, we shift toward benefits for those with vision loss. Jessica, of Benefits In Action, joins Kim as they discuss SSI and SSDI. If you would like to learn more about who and what Benefits in Action does, visit them here https://www.benefitsinaction.org/. Enjoy your week! Watch for the name change coming in April for this show. The new name will be "Navigating Life with Vision Loss" aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/ aincolorado.org/resources/

Penny Forward Part 2

Aftersight — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 02:00:13 -0600

We are talking all things savings today. Chris is back with some great money saving tips and tricks for you to put into place today. Visit Chris and his team at Pennyforward.com and use the discount code AINCO2023 to take 25% off your first month of services. www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/ www.aincolorado.org/resources

Penny Forward Part 1

Aftersight — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 02:00:51 -0700

Welcome to March Madness! In this new month, we are talking about all things money and finances. From personal budgets, to saving, to social security to medicaid and everything in between. Kicking off this month, Kim is joined by Chris Peterson, president and CEO of Penny forward. So sit back and relax and enjoy the show!

Indoor GPS and Cane Travel

Aftersight — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Kim is joined by Jim Pilkington of Denver Vocational Rehabilitation. They talk about quite a few things, including cane travel and indoor GPS. There is a lot of information about transportation this month. Kim also addresses some concerns that our listeners have experienced with relation to RTD, so make sure you listen to the whole episode as to how to reach RTD with questions about Uber and Lyft. Thanks for listening, and join us in March as we dive into financial planning and resources for those who are low-vision and blind. RTD Access on Demand Program (Make sure you reference this program) Phone: (303) 299-6000 Email: customercare@rtd-denver.com www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest www.aincolorado.org/resources

Technology in Transportation

Aftersight — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 02:00:40 -0700

Kim is joined, this week, by Teague Kirkpatrick. Teague has been working in the transportation industry for many years and has an interesting take on what transportation means for those who are disabled, especially when it comes to tech and joining companies. www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

How Do I get Where I Want To Go

Aftersight — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 02:00:03 -0700

Kim is joined by Angel, who discusses all the ways to access transportation and how to schedule your rides to and from specific locations. RTD, Lyft, Uber and more are all discussed in this episode of Topic of The Month. https://bouldercounty.gov/transportation/multimodal/mobilityforall/mobility-and-access-for-all-ages-and-abilities/ www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/ www.aincolorado.org/resources

DRMAC and Transportation Services

Aftersight — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 02:00:29 -0700

Welcome to February and the month of love. We're all about transportation this month, and we kick it off with Colleen from DRMAC. If you have any questions about their services, you can find all the info below. DRMAC Phone: (303) 243-3113 Email: csamuels@drmac-co-org AINC Website: www.aincolorado.org/resources

Wax on wax off: How to Defend Yourself

Aftersight — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 02:00:52 -0700

Ok I know I said last week was our last episode of January, but we were kidding. Kim is joined by the one and only Scott Land. Scott has done a lot of really cool things, and now hes teaching how blind people can defend themselves. Reach out to your local resource center for self-defense classes for the blind. www.aincolorado.org/podcast.guest/ www.aincolorado.org/resources

A New You A New Place

Aftersight — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 02:00:17 -0700

In our final week of January, we talk with Tricia Dunn, who has gone through a lot of change in the past two years. Learning to be independent on your own can be challenging, but with the help of others, all things can be made possible. www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest www.aincolorado.org/resources

Blind in the Kitchen

Aftersight — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 02:00:19 -0700

Grab your slotted spoon and favorite skillet and join Crys and Kim as they discuss all things cooking. From food prep to organization, these two find no shortage of topics to delve into. Nothing in this show is glazed over or overcooked. Every topic is seasoned to perfection. Enough kitchen puns? Well, that's the way the cookie crumbles! www.aincolorado.org www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest

Setting Up Your Home

Aftersight — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 02:00:20 -0700

This week, Kim is joined by the newest member of the AINC board, Melissa Fishburn. Melissa has been blind since birth and has adapted some unique strategies for getting things done around the house. Please don't forget to leave us a review and give us a 5-star rating, as we are looking to reach as many people as possible. Thank you for listening! www.aincolorado.org/resources www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

Life/Work as a Blind Student

Aftersight — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 02:00:50 -0700

Welcome to 2023! We're kicking this year off with our very own Evan Starnes. Evan is a college student attending Front Range Community College and is pursuing a degree in Audio Engineering. Evan also works at AINC as our Audio Technician. He joins Kim as they discuss the challenges of attending college, working, and transportation as well as some tech advice. Have a wonderful day and Happy New Year! www.aincolorado.org www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

Assistive Tech for the Deaf

Aftersight — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 02:00:05 -0700

In our final episode of December and 2022, we talk about some technologies in assisting the deaf community. We have loved having Ellie Carlson on as our expert in training for persons with visual and auditory disabilities. If you have any questions, please let us know. You can reach us at www.aincolorado.org. Happy New Year.

All About Guide Dogs

Aftersight — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 02:00:06 -0700

An interesting topic develops around guide dogs and understanding if you qualify and how to qualify. Enjoy this enlightening episode.

Deafblind Resources Both Locally and Nationally

Aftersight — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 02:00:54 -0700

This week we talk about some of the resources both locally and nationally in dealing with deafblindness and how to make sure you're communicating well when asking for help. If you would like more information, please visit the sites listed below. https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/ https://seattledbsc.org/ Aincolroado.org/resources

Adapting to Vision and Hearing Loss

Aftersight — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 02:00:00 -0700

As we enter a new month, we want to say thank you to everyone who supported us in our Colorado Gives Day initiative. We could not have done it without you. December here at AINC is Adapting to Vision and Hearing Loss. Ellie Carlson joins Kim all month as they discuss everything from where to start and then overcoming each element of vision and hearing loss. Enjoy this month!

What Groups Should I Join

Aftersight — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 02:00:59 -0700

This is the last installment for the Month of November. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Penn joins Kim one last time to talk about different organizations and how they can benefit you in your vision loss journey. www.aincolorado.org/resources

Facing the Holidays With a Disability

Aftersight — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 02:00:03 -0700

Pass the turkey pass the pie, just don't poke me in the eye. Penn and Kim pass all the main goodies in how to navigate the holidays with a disability. pull your chair up to the table and grab your fork and napkin and enjoy this episode of Topic Of The Month.

Teach Myself To Do What Now!?

Aftersight — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 02:00:40 -0700

Hey guess what? You're going to have to learn some new skills. You're going to have to adapt to your world and your new situation. Are you ready for it? Can you humble yourself enough to let yourself learn some life giving skills? Penn and Kim talk about just that and more in this wonderful episode. www.aincolorado.org

Awareness and Education: Oops! Shouldn't Have Said That.

Aftersight — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 02:00:10 -0700

Have you ever said something meant to be a compliment or you thought you were being inquisitive in a nonthreatening manner, and then it came out as insensitive and misunderstood? Ya. We've all been there. Penn and Kim talk about what to say/do and not say/do to those with the cane and/or dog. www.Aincolorado.org www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

TOTM Ep. 9 Awareness and Education - My Disability

Aftersight — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 02:00:53 -0600

Trying to find your place in the world can be challenging. It can be much more difficult if you have a disability. You may not want to be seen or let people know that you have a disability or that you need help in a particular area. If you're there in that spot, we want you to know that's ok. It's not easy going on this journey. Penn Street, host of Aftersight is joining Kim this month as they talk about identifying your disability and giving it a name. The first step to overcoming any situation is giving it the appropriate name and then moving forward. So here's to you and naming your struggles, disability or no disability. www.aincolorado.org ainc@aincolorado.org aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

TOTM Ep. 8: Advocacy in the Medical Arena

Aftersight — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 02:00:44 -0600

This is the final episode in our topic for this month, which is advocacy. Lorraine and Kim have been talking about advocacy and all the different places we need to speak up for ourselves. Next month we will be joined by our very own Penn Street talking about Awareness and Education. www.aincolorado.org/resources www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

TOTM Ep. 07: Advocacy in the Workforce

Aftersight — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:00:28 -0600

Kim is joined by Lorraine Hutcheson from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation where they talk about job hunting, applying for and gaining access to necessary materials for a job well done. www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/ bemyeyes.com aira.io

TOTM Ep. 6: Advocacy in Transportation

Aftersight — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 11:39:49 -0600

Kim is joined by Lorraine Hutcheson from the Division of Vocational Rehab. Transportation can be a daunting task, even for sighted people. Doing it blind can sometimes feel completely hopeless and frustrating. Join us as we talk about navigating on your own and being an advocate for yourself. www.aira.com www.bemyeyes.com www.aincolorado.org/resources www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest/

TOTM Ep. 05 What is Advocacy?

Aftersight — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 02:00:52 -0600

This month, we are all about sticking up for yourself and the ones you love. Whether it's in a restaurant or ride-share, work place or school, we have answers in how to stand up for your rights and what to when those rights are not honored. Kim Sits down with Loraine Hutcheson from Vocational Rehab and offers her insights on how to face difficult situations.

TOTM Ep. 04 Behavioral Health - Grief and Advocacy

Aftersight — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 02:00:14 -0600

For the final time, Kim sits down with Bill Lundgrin and chat about dealing with grief and different types of grief surrounding blindness. Grief comes in many forms and if you need help, reach out to us at www.aincolorado.org/resources.

TOTM Ep. 03 Behavioral Health - Abuse and Trauma

Aftersight — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 02:00:01 -0600

AINC's director Kim Wardlow discuses with Bill Lundgrin the effects of Abuse and Trauma and how they relate to each other. They talk about how to identify someone who is going through and abusive situation as well as identify someone who is dealing with trauma and what that looks like for different people. Enjoy and let us know how we can make this better by giving a comment and feedback on any platforms. If you want to share your story or apply to be a guest on any of our shows, please visit the link below. www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest

TOTM Ep. 02 Behavioral Health - Addiction

An AINC original Podcast Host: Kim Wardlow Producer: Jonathan Price — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 00:00:04 -0600

Last week Kim and Bill talked about the misconceptions surrounding behavioral health and counceling and just how important it is for all of us to remain mentally healthy. This week we hit hard with addiction. Even though we focus on alcoholism, these same principles can be transferred to any addiction. If you know some who may need to hear this episode, please share it with them. If you have questions for Kim or Bill, please visit www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest to submit a comment or question. We may even read them on the show!

TOTM Ep. 01 Behavioral Health Overview and Misconceptions

An AINC Original Podcast Host: Kim Wardlow Producer: Jonathan Price — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 00:00:30 -0600

Welcome to the maiden voyage of Topic of the Month. For the month of September, we will be focusing on behavioral health as it relates to blindness and other visual impairments. Behavioral health does not mean you have a mental disorder and as you'll see in this series with Bill Lundgrin, everyone should be mentally healthy. If you have comments or questions, please visit the sites below for more information. If you have a question for the staff or would like your question read on air please visit www.aincolorado.org/podcast-guest. Thanks for joining us.