The Blind Chick

Thank you for listening to this episode of the Blind Chick. I know you have questions for Penn and Moses, so why not ask? Give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org In this episode of The Blind Chick podcast, hosts Penn and Moses Street engage with Joel Schneider, the executive director of Soul Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to training service dogs for individuals with disabilities. The conversation explores the mission of Soul Dogs, the process of training service dogs, and the profound impact these animals have on the lives of their handlers. Schneider shares insights into the unique abilities of service dogs, the importance of temperament in training, and the distinction between service dogs and emotional support animals. The episode highlights the healing power of the human-animal bond and the transformative experiences of those involved with Soul Dogs. Takeaways Blindness can be an adventure and a journey of strength. Soul Dogs, Inc. was founded to support individuals with disabilities. The connection between animals and healing trauma is profound. Training service dogs involves understanding their temperament. Service dogs can be trained to detect medical conditions like seizures. The journey of training a service dog is both rewarding and challenging. Emotional support animals differ from service dogs in their roles. Community involvement is crucial for the success of nonprofits like Soul Dogs. Every dog has unique abilities that can be harnessed for support. The bond between humans and dogs is a source of joy and healing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Blind Chick Podcast 02:23 Meet Joel Schneider and Soul Dogs, Inc. 03:20 The Mission and Impact of Soul Dogs 12:41 The Journey of Training Service Dogs 18:24 Understanding the Unique Abilities of Service Dogs 21:10 The Difference Between Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals

We're so glad you're listening to The Blind Chick. If you have any questions for Penn or Moses, email them at feedback@aftersight.org or give them a call at (720) 712-8856. In this episode, Paula Kissinger is back for part 2 as she talks with Penn and Moses Street. They discuss their experiences with adaptive sports, including swimming, hiking, and working on a cattle ranch. They share tips for swimming in the ocean and hiking with a visual impairment. They also talk about how participating in sports has impacted their lives and provided them with valuable life skills. The episode concludes with a discussion on finding resources and services for adaptive sports. Takeaways There are adaptive ways to participate in various sports, such as swimming and hiking, even with a visual impairment. Participating in sports can teach valuable life skills, such as perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges. Sports can have a positive impact on career choices and relationships. It is important for parents to allow their children with disabilities to experience struggles and learn independence. There are many resources and services available for adaptive sports, and getting involved in a program can be a great experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:51 Various Sports and Magic Tricks 01:48 Swimming and Echolocation 06:28 Swimming in the Ocean 09:44 Hiking with a Visual Impairment 12:37 Impact of Sports on Career and Relationships 18:50 Working on a Cattle Ranch 21:11 Takeaway: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Independence 21:39 Takeaway: Adaptive Sports for Everyone 22:06 Finding Resources and Services for Adaptive Sports25:23 Conclusion

Summary Paula Kissinger, a guest on The Blind Chick podcast, shares her story of how sports became her compass through vision loss. She grew up loving sports and found a sense of normalcy and community at a summer camp for kids with visual impairments. She discovered her love for judo at the camp and went on to compete in able-bodied competitions. Paula also talks about her passion for skiing and how she learned to ski at a young age. She now mentors young skiers and encourages them to overcome their fears. Takeaways Sports can be a compass for navigating vision loss and provide a sense of normalcy and community. Judo is an accessible sport for people with visual impairments due to its tactile nature. Skiing can be enjoyed by blind and low vision individuals with the help of guides and proper training. Parents should encourage their blind or low vision children to try sports and support their progress. Overcoming fear is an important part of participating in sports and achieving personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:20 Growing Up in Colorado and Moving to Philadelphia 03:40 Paula's Vision Diagnosis and Journey 06:03 Discovering Sports and Judo at Summer Camp 08:23 The Impact of Sports on Paula's Life 10:38 The Accessibility of Judo for People with Visual Impairments 13:29 Skiing with Guides and Overcoming Fears 16:20 Different Styles of Guiding in Skiing 19:11 Paula's Love for Skiing and Favorite Ski Areas 22:40 Paula's Role as a Mentor for Young Skiers 24:08 Encouraging Blind and Low Vision Children to Try Sports 25:52 Overcoming Fear in Sports and Achieving Personal Growth 26:23 Conclusion and Preview of Part 2

Summary The Blind Chick podcast is a platform for people with disabilities to share their stories. The hosts Penn and Moses Street interview individuals from all over the world, including para-Olympians, gamers, photographers, artists, writers, and activists. In this episode, they interview Ted Tahquechi, a blind art photographer, who creates 3D printable art that can be touched and experienced by people with visual impairments. They also interview Jacqueline and Alexa, the creators of the Dateability app, a dating app designed for disabled and chronically ill individuals. Lastly, they speak with Shawn Satterfield, the founder of the Shine Music Festival, which focuses on accessibility and inclusivity in live music events. Takeaways The Blind Chick podcast provides a platform for people with disabilities to share their stories. Ted Takuichi creates 3D printable art that can be experienced by people with visual impairments. The Dateability app is a dating app designed for disabled and chronically ill individuals. The Shine Music Festival focuses on accessibility and inclusivity in live music events. Chapters 00:00 Empowering Stories from Around the World 05:19 Creating Tactile Art for the Visually Impaired 10:47 Finding Love and Connection with the Dateability App 16:18 Promoting Accessibility and Inclusivity in Live Music Events Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick. It was so much fun seeing you all at the Shine Festival, and we are so blessed to get to do this every week. If you have any questions for Penn and Moses, reach out to us at feedback@aftersight.org or give us a call at (720) 712-8856. Have a great week.

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