The Blind Chick

Summary In this episode of The Blind Chick podcast, hosts Penn and Moses interview Marty Sobo, a podcaster and tech guru who is a strong advocate for accessibility in the tech world. Marty shares his personal journey of losing his sight 10 years ago and how it changed his life. He discusses the challenges faced by blind individuals in learning and using technology, as well as the importance of advocating for oneself and the blind community. The conversation also touches on the need for better resources and support for those who receive a vision loss diagnosis. Takeaways Losing one's vision can be a life-altering experience, requiring individuals to learn new skills and adapt to a world that heavily relies on technology. Blind individuals often face challenges in accessing and using technology, and there is a need for better resources and support to help them navigate the digital world. Advocacy plays a crucial role in empowering blind individuals to ask for help, seek resources, and educate others about their needs and experiences. Receiving a vision loss diagnosis can be overwhelming, and there is a need for improved support systems to guide individuals through the process and connect them with relevant resources. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:19 Marty's Journey and Diagnosis 03:09 The Challenges of Accessing and Using Technology 07:00 The Emotional Journey and the Power of Advocacy 15:58 Unmuting Yourself and the Blind Community 21:32 Unmuting Your Potential: Asking Questions and Advocating for Yourself 24:22 Improving Support Systems for Vision Loss Diagnoses 27:08 Closing Remarks and Call to Kindness Thank you for listening to The Blind Chick. If you have questions, please email us at feedback@aftersight.org or call us at (720) 712-8856.

Summary In this episode, Penn and Moses interviews Dominic Petrello, a writer and advocate for the blind community. They discuss Dominic's upcoming kidney transplant, his journey with diabetes, and the challenges faced by blind individuals in sports journalism. Dominic shares his perspective on the misconceptions about blindness and the need for society to value individuals based on their abilities rather than their disabilities. He also talks about his aspirations to become a full-time sports writer and his desire to help others through his words. Takeaways Blind individuals face misconceptions and stereotypes, but they should not let them define their abilities or limit their aspirations. Society needs to value individuals based on their abilities rather than their disabilities. Blindness can enhance other senses, such as hearing and smell, and individuals should embrace and utilize these heightened senses. Mentorship and support from others can play a crucial role in overcoming challenges and achieving success. Dominic aspires to become a full-time sports writer and hopes to make a difference in the world through his words. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recap 00:55 Dominic's Kidney Transplant Journey 02:15 Living with Diabetes and Other Health Challenges 03:09 Discussing the Documentary 'Hoop Dreams' 04:33 Making Sports Journalism More Accessible for the Blind 05:52 Challenging Misconceptions about Blindness 07:18 The Importance of Empathy and Understanding 08:17 Navigating Relationships and Dating as a Blind Individual 09:41 The Deeper Sense of Perception in the Blind Community 10:59 The Desire for a More Inclusive Society 12:24 Utilizing Enhanced Senses and Cognitive Abilities 13:47 The Challenges and Benefits of Heightened Sense of Smell 15:11 Living with a Partner with a Good Sense of Smell 16:08 Connecting with Dominic and Seeking Mentorship 18:59 Dominic's Aspirations as a Writer and Mentor 21:20 Defining Success as a Sports Writer 23:45 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Thank you for listening to The Blind Chick. Give us a call at (720) 712-8856 if you have any questions for our hosts. Have a great week!

Summary In this episode, Penn and Moses interviews Dominic Petrillo, a blind sportswriter, about his journey and experiences in the sports industry. Dominic shares his passion for sports and how he became a sportswriter after losing his vision. He also discusses the challenges he faces as a blind journalist and advocate for accessibility in the field. The conversation highlights the importance of mental health in the sports world and the power of sharing personal stories to inspire and help others. Takeaways Blindness does not limit one's passion for sports and the ability to work in the sports industry. Sharing personal stories of struggles and mental health challenges in the sports world can inspire and help others. Advocacy for accessibility in the sports industry is crucial to ensure equal opportunities for people with disabilities. The blind community pioneers accessibility solutions that benefit everyone. Building connections and relationships with industry professionals can open doors and create opportunities for growth and collaboration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for Shine Festival 03:18 Guest Introduction: Dominic Petrillo 09:03 Growing Up in Philadelphia and Love for Sports 13:23 Losing Vision and Finding Purpose in Sports Writing 16:47 Writing Process and Advocacy for Accessibility 20:29 Challenges and Progress in Accessibility 25:16 Milestones and Connections in the Sports Industry 26:13 Upcoming Events and Conclusion Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick if you have any questions for Penn or Moses please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can visit us at feedback@aftersight.org

Summary In this episode, Melodie Paubert discusses her goal of helping others who are in the same situation as her, providing financial education and literacy to those who need it. She shares her strategies for growing her business through social media and emphasizes the importance of having a goal and budgeting. Melodie also talks about her experience as a blind parent and the challenges she faces, as well as the importance of self-care. The takeaway from this episode is that being diagnosed with a progressive degenerative eye disease is not the end of the world, but rather an opportunity to define one's purpose and build a supportive community. Takeaways Financial education and literacy are important for everyone, especially those who are blind or low vision. Having a goal and budgeting are essential for success as an entrepreneur. Being a blind parent comes with unique challenges, but support and resources are available. Self-care is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Building a supportive community is key to navigating the challenges of vision loss. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:25 Goal of Financial Education 02:44 Growing Business Through Social Media 05:01 Challenges and Importance of Budgeting 08:19 Challenges and Joys of Being a Blind Parent 11:30 Navigating Disability Accommodations 13:21 Prioritizing Self-Care 15:58 Empowering Others Through Community 19:41 Motivation Behind the Podcast 23:26 Upcoming Event and Conclusion Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick. If you have any questions for Penn or Moses please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can leave us an email at feedback@aftersight.org! Have a great week!

Summary Melody Paubert, an entrepreneur from Madagascar, shares her journey of growing up in a small town and eventually coming to the United States. She discusses her diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and her involvement in a nonprofit organization called Nofy i Androy (NiA), which provides access to education for girls in Madagascar. Melody also talks about her work as a disease intervention specialist and her passion for financial education. The episode ends with a reminder about an upcoming event and a call to share and subscribe to the podcast. Takeaways Growing up in a small town in Madagascar, Melody faced challenges in accessing education and opportunities. The nonprofit organization Nofy i Androy (NiA), started by Melody's mother, aims to provide girls in Madagascar with access to education and improve gender equality. Melody is involved in disease investigation as a disease intervention specialist at the Seattle King County Public Health Department. She is also an entrepreneur and is passionate about financial education and helping others improve their financial situations. The episode ends with a reminder about an upcoming event and a call to share and subscribe to the podcast. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Solo Hosting 01:24 Guest Introduction and Growing Up in Madagascar 04:30 Diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa and Coming to the United States 09:28 Starting the Nonprofit Organization Nofy i Androy (NiA) 16:48 Meaning of Nofy i Androy (NiA) and Empowering Girls Through Education 18:14 Educating Parents and Providing Life Skills Workshops 20:36 Supporting the Nonprofit and Call to Action 21:04 Melody's Full-Time Job and Entrepreneurship 25:12 Upcoming Event and Conclusion Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick! If you have any questions for Penn or Moses give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org

Summary Rebecca Shields, a blind advocate and educator, shares her journey of living with blindness and the challenges she faced as a parent. She emphasizes the importance of independence and not allowing blindness to hold you back. Rebecca is passionate about helping others with disabilities and connecting them with resources and services. She has dedicated her life to advocating for the blind community and fighting against prejudice and discrimination. Rebecca's story is an inspiration to others and serves as a reminder that blindness does not define a person's abilities or potential. Takeaways Blindness should not hold you back or be used as an excuse. It is important to have a strong work ethic and pursue independence. Parents with disabilities, including blindness, may face prejudice and discrimination. It is important to advocate for yourself and your children. Education and support are crucial for blind individuals to live fulfilling lives. Access to resources and services can make a significant difference. Blindness does not define a person's abilities or potential. It is important to challenge societal perceptions and stereotypes. Helping others and being involved in the community can bring joy and fulfillment, regardless of disability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Denver Pride Parade 02:00 Guest Introduction: Rebecca Shields 03:02 Rebecca's Journey with Blindness 06:31 Discovering a Passion for Helping Others 11:56 Facing Prejudice and Discrimination 23:00 Becoming an Advocate and Educator 25:22 Living a Fulfilling Life with Blindness 29:00 Rebecca's Impact and Contact Information Thank you for listening to the Blind Chick. Lets us know what you would like to hear and reach us at (720) 712-8856

Summary In this episode, Penn and Moses continue their conversation with Jamiee Kaddish. They discuss the importance of slowing down, finding peace within oneself, and embracing the unique perspective that blindness brings. Jamiee shares her journey of starting a nonprofit called Insight Outreach, which focuses on providing movement resources for children with visual impairments. They also talk about the societal perception of blindness and the power of shifting our mindset to see it as a gift rather than a limitation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:22 The Power of Slowing Down and Finding Peace 02:50 Embracing Blindness as a Gift 06:26 Providing Movement Resources for Children with Visual Impairments 09:11 Shifting Society's Perception of Blindness Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 720-712-8856. Don't forget to register for the hike at www.aftersight.org/hike.

Summary In this episode of The Blind Chick, Penn and Moses interview Jamie Kaddish, a teacher of movement and life. Jamie shares her journey of transitioning from being a dancer to using movement as a way to heal and support others. She discusses the importance of being present in the body and using movement to connect with the nervous system. The conversation also touches on the benefits of Feldenkrais, a method that helps reorganize the body and improve overall well-being. The episode ends with announcements about upcoming events and the importance of kindness. Takeaways Movement can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery. Being present in the body and aware of movement patterns can lead to a greater sense of well-being. Feldenkrais is a method that can help reorganize the body and improve overall physical and mental health. Upcoming events include a hike and the Shine Music Festival, both of which offer opportunities for connection and community. Kindness towards oneself and others is essential for personal growth and a positive mindset. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Announcement of Hike 03:16 Guest Introduction: Jamie Kaddish 10:12 Transitioning from Dancer to Movement Teacher 15:01 Exploring Feldenkrais Thank you for checking out this episode of The Blind Chick. If you have any questions for Penn and Moses let them know by giving them a call at &20-712-8856. Don't forget to register for the hike here: www.aftersight.org/hike.

Summary In this episode, Penn and Moses rejoin Ted Tahquechi and discuss his journey as a travel blogger and photographer after losing his sight. He shares his experiences traveling as a blind person and the importance of educating others about blindness. Ted also talks about his passion for making art accessible and his work with tactile art and 3D printing. He offers advice for those going through vision loss and emphasizes the importance of asking for help and finding resources. The episode concludes with a discussion about the upcoming Shine Music Festival and the accessibility it offers. Takeaways Blindness can be an adventure, and it's important to make travel accessible for everyone. Educating others about blindness and advocating for accessibility is crucial. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, and there are resources available for those with vision loss. Making art accessible, both visually and tactilely, opens up new opportunities and markets. The Shine Music Festival is a highly accessible event that offers a unique experience for all attendees. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Getting Started with Travel Blogging 06:25 The Importance of Education and Advocacy 09:19 Making Art Accessible for Everyone 13:39 The Power of Asking for Help 23:44 The Shine Music Festival: A Model of Accessibility 25:06 Conclusion

Summary In this episode, Penn and Moses interview Ted Tahquechi, a travel blogger, award-winning photographer, and public speaker who lost his vision in a car accident. Ted shares how picking up his camera again helped him regain his life with vision loss. He discusses his projects, including creating tactile art through 3D printing and his ongoing work with the human form. The conversation also touches on the importance of social interactions and the therapeutic aspect of photography. Takeaways Picking up his camera again was the first step for Ted Tahquechi in getting his life back after losing his vision in a car accident. Ted uses photography as a tool for social interactions and to capture moments he can later experience through magnifiers and digital technology. Ted is working on a project to create tactile art through 3D printing, allowing visually impaired individuals to touch and experience visual art. Ted's ongoing project focuses on the human form, representing people of different ages, genders, and physical abilities. Photography can be therapeutic and help individuals with vision loss navigate social interactions and understand non-visual cues. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Blind Chick podcast and recent events 03:11 Introduction to Ted Tahquechi and his background 04:06 Using Photography as a Tool for Life with Vision Loss 08:20 The Importance of Slowing Down and Focusing on Composition 10:14 Photography as Psychotherapy and Social Interaction 13:53 Ted Tahquechi's Projects: Tactile Art and the Human Form 21:52 Exploring the Human Form and Inclusivity 25:12 The Journey of Ted Tahquechi's Projects 26:08 Conclusion and Future Events Thank you for listening to this episode of the blind chick. If you have any questions for Penn or Moses, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Thanks for listening, and don't forget to check out our hike at www.aftersight.org/hike.