

The Blind Chick
Aftersight
The Blind Chick is an Aftersight Original hosted by Penn and Moses Street. It’s a raw, real, and often funny conversation space where blindness isn’t a limitation—it’s part of the story. Each episode dives into the lives of blind and low-vision people, exploring resilience, identity, and the messy, beautiful realities of living without sight. With heart, humor, and honesty, The Blind Chick breaks stereotypes, challenges stigma, and reminds us all that blindness is not the end of the story—it’s the beginning of a new one.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 4, 2024 • 28min
Paving The Way With Jo
The Blind Chick Podcast: An Insightful Conversation with Author Joe Pinto
In this episode of The Blind Chick podcast, hosts Penn and Moses Street delve into an enriching discussion with pioneering blind author, Jo Elizabeth Pinto. Amidst New Year resolutions banter, the conversation unravels Pinto's life journey, beginning with her groundbreaking entrance into mainstream education in the 1970s. She recalls the daunting challenges faced by blind children at school, ingeniously highlighting the intersectionality of disability prejudice and sexism. The discussion fortuitously segues into the importance of inspiring characters in her books who are not defined by their disabilities. The hosts also highlight Joe's mentoring efforts in supporting others to adapt to their new condition of blindness. Lastly, the episode underscores the need to challenge societal norms and follow individual passions, as Jo culminates with powerful advice drawn from her life experiences. The discussion from this thought-provoking episode urges listeners to see past physical disabilities and acknowledge the capabilities each one possesses.
If you would like a transcript of this podcast, please click on the link below.
https://share.descript.com/view/1YQVDKq17Pg
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' New Year Resolutions
01:03 Exciting Guest Introduction
01:45 Journey to the Podcast
02:36 Experience as a Pioneer in Mainstream Schooling
06:31 Challenges of Unemployment Among the Blind
11:07 Writing Journey and Books
14:15 Experience as a Blind Parent
21:59 Jo's Mentoring Experiences
24:37 Conclusion and Contact Information
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick. If you have any comments or questions, you can get a hold of us in two ways
feedback@aftersight.org
(720) 712-8856

Dec 28, 2023 • 26min
Goodbye Aftersight, Hello Blind Chick
Aftersight: Year-end Wrap Up
In this final episode of Aftersight for 2023, host Penn Street reflects on the year's milestones and memorable highlights. From connecting with Olympic athletes and artists to discussing innovative technology with entrepreneurs, Aftersight has touched various aspects of life. It also played an important role in preserving braille for future generations and providing comfort through a memorial episode dedicated to a dear friend. This episode is beautifully wrapped up by an inspiring message from Jonathan and a ‘mashup of voices’ that have left their impact throughout the year. As Aftersight transitions into 'The Blind Chick', Penn sends out a warm and hopeful message to all her listeners as we step into 2024.
A transcript of this episode can be found here:
https://share.descript.com/view/kM1FpkGsdMk
00:03 Introduction and Welcome
00:22 Transition to New Year and New Name
00:42 Year in Review: Highlights and Milestones
02:53 Guest Interview: Mike May
07:04 Guest Interview: Chad Allen
12:13 Guest Interview: Ginny Owens
18:58 Guest Interview: Kelvin Crosby
22:58 Guest Interview: Ricky McKinney
24:36 Closing Remarks and Looking Forward
We are so excited to have Moses Street joining the Blind Chick show. If you have questions for Penn and Moses, please reach out at feedback@aincolorado.org or call us at (720) 712-8856

Dec 21, 2023 • 28min
From Singin' and Dancin' to Journalism
Aftersight with Bridget Kuenning-Pollpeter
In this episode of 'Aftersight', host Penn Street engages with esteemed guest Bridget Kuenning-Pollpeter. Bridget is a journalist, mom, and performer who fought adversity from birth. She shares her experiences with diabetes, vision loss, and an eating disorder, using her story to inspire and change lives. Bridget later pursued a career as a creative nonfiction writer and journalist, circling back to her love for creativity. She discusses her favorite works and how she navigates the freelance writing world. Topping it off with talks about identity and body image and the importance of kindness, this episode emanates an aura of resilience and positivity.
If you would like to follow along with a transcript of this episode, please click on the link below.
https://share.descript.com/view/O9nNMo7U2WF
00:03 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Meet the Guest: Bridget
01:50 Getting to Know Bridget: Ice Breaking Questions
04:28 Bridget's Struggles with Health and Eating Disorders
05:17 The Impact of Body Image and Eating Disorders
11:08 Bridget's Journey in Performing Arts
14:52 Transition to Writing and Journalism
22:10 Bridget's Favorite Pieces and How to Follow Her Work
27:04 Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Aftersight. Thank you for joining us. If you would like to reach any of the hosts or ask a question, please reach us at feedback@aimcolorado.org or call us on our voicemail line at (720) 712-8856.

Dec 14, 2023 • 27min
Penn Gets A Co-host!
Aftersight Episode: Introducing A New Co-Host and Exciting Future Plans
In this episode of Aftersight, Penn Street, the host, introduces her husband Moses Street as the new co-host for her podcast. She explains that the show's name will soon change to 'The Blind Chick', a reference to her own experiences as a low-vision individual and her willingness to see change. Penn dives into the history of how she came up with the new name for the show and the need for a co-host. Furthermore, she shares about the fun and challenges of hosting a podcast by oneself. Several notable guests and past interviews are mentioned, which includes celebrities like Diane Schuur and Chloe Duplessis. Excitingly, Penn reveals that Aftersight is now in the top 25% of USA podcasts, and she looks forward to what's to come in 2024.
If you would like to follow along with a copy of this podcast, click on the link below.
https://share.descript.com/view/SVyhJ1A48K1
00:03 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Introducing the New Co-Host
01:33 The Story Behind 'The Blind Chick'
02:12 The Journey
04:17 The Impact
07:11 The Evolution
07:46 Controversy and Acceptance
08:49 The Need for a Co-Host
10:14 The Dynamic Duo: Penn and Moses
12:26 Favorite Episodes and Future Guests
20:38 Celebrating Success and Looking Forward
24:58 Closing Remarks and Gratitude
Thank you for listening to this episode of Aftersight. If you would like to ask Penn and Moses a question, you can do so using the following links:
Feedback@aincolorado.org
(720)712-8856

Dec 7, 2023 • 28min
Jeff Hanson: An 'Extra'ordinary Life Part 2
Celebrating Jeff Hanson's Legacy, Part 2
In this episode of 'Aftersight', host Penn Street welcomes back Julie and Hal Hanson, parents of Jeff Hanson, a remarkable artist who passed away three years ago. They share more about Jeff's unique style, how he adapted to low vision, and his deep passion for raising donations for charity through his art. They also discuss Jeff's ambitious goal of raising $10 million for charity, which has so far reached the $8 million mark. The episode ends with an introduction to the upcoming 'Growing Kindness' sculpture project, inspired by Jeff's beloved poppy artwork.
If you would like to follow along with a transcript of this recording, please click on the link below.
https://share.descript.com/view/9xa9pmmLIgB
00:03 Introduction and Welcome
00:21 Remembering Jeff Hanson: A Remarkable Artist
01:37 Jeff's Unique Artistic Techniques
05:26 Jeff's Love for Poppies and Their Influence on His Art
07:15 Jeff's Vision and Its Impact on His Art
10:19 Jeff's Philanthropic Journey and Goals
12:30 The Growing Kindness Sculpture: A Tribute to Jeff's Legacy
19:08 Jeff's Love for Fine Things and His Unfulfilled Dreams
23:09 Jeff's Theme Song and His Parents' Reflections
25:03 How to Learn More About Jeff and Support His Legacy
26:47 Conclusion: A Tribute to Jeff's Impact
Thank you for listening to this episode of Aftersight soon to be named "The Blind Chick". If you have a question for Penn or would like to reach one of our other guests, please email us or call us on our voice mail line listed below. Have a wonderful week and we'll see you next time.
feedback@aincolorado.org
(720) 712-8856

Nov 30, 2023 • 29min
Jeff Hanson an 'Extra'ordinary Life - Part 1
Aftersight: A Tribute to an Extraordinary Life - Part 1
This episode of Aftersight features the parents of Jeff Hanson, a young, award-winning artist who excelled despite suffering from severe vision loss due to neurofibromatosis. Jeff's work, combining unusual colors and heavy, tactile textures, raised over a million dollars for charities nationwide by the time he turned 20. He also had a memorable friendship with Sir Elton John, initiated through a Make-A-Wish experience. The episode encourages listeners to visit Jeff's website, jeffhansonart.com. Learn more about his inspiring life and art.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Introducing the Special Guests
01:08 The Story of Jeff Hanson: Early Life and Challenges
02:22 Jeff's Parents Share Their Grieving Process
04:01 Jeff's Artistic Journey Begins
05:32 The Evolution of Jeff's Art
13:52 Jeff's Art Becomes a Business
22:08 Jeff's Make-a-Wish Experience
26:41 How to Learn More About Jeff's Legacy
27:14 Conclusion and Farewell
If you would like to follow along with a transcript of this show, please click on the link below.
https://share.descript.com/view/rwCVQ5Xhkgx
If you have a question for any of our AINC original hosts, please email us at feedback@aincolorado.org or call our voicemail line at (720) 712-8856.

Nov 23, 2023 • 27min
Medicare vs. Medicaid
Medicare and Enrollment Periods: Insight With Brenda Trey Hosts - After Sight Podcast
In this episode of the Aftersight Podcast, host Penn Street welcomes guest Brenda Trejos to discuss Medicare, its history, and how it works. They also cover enrollment periods, the different types of Medicare and who qualifies for them. Brenda stresses the need for caution in responding to commercials related to Medicare and the importance of seeking advice from a certified, licensed, authorized agent for personalized advice. The discussion also touches on the benefits of Medicare Advantage programs and the necessity of understanding one’s healthcare coverage fully. Brenda reveals that she provides her services across the country, helping clients understand and select the best options for their specific needs.
00:03 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Podcast Name Change Announcement
01:51 Introduction of Guest - Brenda Trey
02:53 Getting to Know Brenda
04:53 Understanding Medicare
06:02 Medicare vs Medicaid
13:48 Medicare Enrollment Period
20:16 Contacting Brenda for Medicare Assistance
25:35 Closing Remarks and Announcements
If you would like a transcript of this episode, please click on the link below.
https://share.descript.com/view/yAXqLzkVYHn
To make a comment or suggestion, you can email us at feedback@aincolorado.org or call us at (720) 712-8856

Nov 16, 2023 • 47min
Aftersight's 100th Episode
Aftersight's Special 100th Episode: Reflection, Celebrations and New Beginnings
In this milestone 100th episode of the podcast Aftersight, host Penn Street celebrates with a few special guests who have greatly influenced the show. Listeners are reminded of the diversity and unique perspectives brought in by past guests from different walks of life. Penn shares that the show's initial intention was to help someone in their life journey using stories of people from around the world, a value she notes that the show has managed to consistently embody. Additionally, the episode informs the listeners that 'After Sight' will soon be the organization's name and the show will transition into being called, 'The Blind Chick', to reflect Penn's social media persona. The episode ends on an encouraging note, urging people to be kind to themselves and extend kindness to someone else as well.
00:03 Introduction and Welcome
00:19 Interview with Penn Street Begins
00:55 Penn's Daily Life and Work Ethic
01:23 Penn's Favorite Aspects of Fall
02:43 Penn's Favorite Theme Songs
03:31 Penn's Current Playlist
04:02 Recap of the Last Two Years
06:50 Guest Appearance: Mike May
07:45 Penn's First Meeting with Mike May
11:55 Guest Messages and Reflections
13:18 Guest Appearance: Alex Flynn
20:37 Chloe's Impact and the Concept of Seasons
22:42 Guest Appearance: Kelvin Crosby
25:43 Guest Appearance: Evan Starnes
29:57 Memorable Episodes and Impactful Stories
31:36 Guest Appearance: Kim Wardlow
40:33 The Evolution of Aftersight
44:01 The Blind Chick: A New Chapter
For a transcription of this show please visit https://share.descript.com/view/IXg65qYpYdE

Oct 26, 2023 • 28min
Fall 2023 Aging At Altitude
Every so often we do these Aging at Altitude events and it's wonderful to see so many vendors and stories coming from this community. If you would like to give a suggestion for the new Name for Aftersight you can do so at the address below. feedback@aincolorado.org If you would like a transcript of this episode please click on the link below. https://share.descript.com/view/wYuNTWzXuap

Oct 19, 2023 • 28min
Story Telling From a Blind Perspective
Chad is back this week as we dive into part two. It's funny when you think of the art of storytelling, and it comes to the use of our imagination. Effective storytellers bring you along in the journey, and many times it's all about the journey rather than the end of the story. Sit back and relax and enjoy the journey of part 2 with Chad Allen. If you would like a transcript of this recording, you can find it at the link listed below. https://share.descript.com/view/f8bhJw9uBDe


