

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

Jul 11, 2024 • 27min
Embracing Blindness as a Gift Jamiee Kadish Part 2
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.

Jul 4, 2024 • 25min
The Power of Being Present in the Body
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.

Jun 27, 2024 • 27min
Making Art Accessible for Everyone
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

Jun 20, 2024 • 27min
The Therapeutic Power of Photography for Vision Loss
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.

Jun 12, 2024 • 26min
Breaking Down Polarization with Storytelling and Music
Summary
Cordelia Zars, the executive director of Empathy Theater Project, discusses the mission of the organization to develop original theater that fosters empathy and connection across divisions in America. The theater company creates original musicals and monologues that tackle complex issues and aim to bring people together. Cordelia emphasizes the importance of storytelling and music in breaking down polarization and promoting understanding. She also shares upcoming events, including a concert called Sing for Peace and a production of their show 'We Are Still Here.' The conversation highlights the need for kindness and recognizing our shared humanity.
Takeaways
Empathy Theater Project creates original theater that fosters empathy and connection across divisions in America.
Storytelling and music are powerful tools in breaking down polarization and promoting understanding.
Upcoming events include a concert called Sing for Peace and a production of the show 'We Are Still Here.
Kindness and recognizing our shared humanity are essential in creating a more compassionate society.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Summer Activities
01:53 Introduction of Cordelia Zars and Empathy Theater Project
04:13 Empathy Theater Project's Mission and Inspiration
06:20 The Power of Music and Theater in Fostering Empathy
07:19 Balancing Perspectives in Storytelling
09:11 Exploring Nuance and Complexity in Issues
12:31 Upcoming Events: Sing for Peace and 'We Are Still Here'
13:57 Expanding 'We Are Still Here' Production
19:56 Encouragement for Kindness and Unity
22:23 Announcements: Audio Trek Hike and Shine Music Festival
25:26 Closing Remarks and Call for Kindness
Thank you for listening to this episode of the blind chick. If you have any comments, questions or feedback for the show, please give us a call at 720-712-8856. Thanks and have a great week.

Jun 6, 2024 • 28min
Inspiration Behind Blind Delights
Summary
Stephanie Barrera Valdes shares her journey of vision loss, career impact, and the creation of Blind Delights. She discusses her diagnosis, moving to the United States, and her work with the Foundation for Children with Special Needs. Additionally, she talks about the inspiration behind Blind Delights and its environmental-friendly products. Stephanie Barrera Valdes discusses her zero waste, waterless skincare products and the inspiration behind her brand, Blind Delights. She shares insights on the benefits of waterless products, the challenges of finding natural alternatives, and the personal experiences that led to the creation of her products. Stephanie also highlights the importance of natural, chemical-free products and the positive impact they can have on people's lives.
Register for the Aftersight Audio trekkers Hike here and make sure you put Team Blind Chick in the registration form for your chance to win some cool prizes.
https://aftersight.org/hike/
Takeaways
Stephanie's vision loss was the result of a brain injury and optical nerve atrophy, leading to a significant impact on her career path.
Moving to Boston was motivated by the need for better medical attention and support for her vision loss.
Stephanie's work with the Foundation for Children with Special Needs involves filling gaps in education and medical support for families and children with special needs.
The creation of Blind Delights was inspired by Stephanie's son's eczema, leading to the development of environmental-friendly skincare products.
Blind Delights offers solid lotion bars and other products that are both effective and environmentally friendly. The benefits of zero waste, waterless skincare products
The importance of natural, chemical-free products
The impact of personal experiences on product creation
The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship as a blind individual
Chapters
00:00 Journey of Vision Loss and Career Impact
05:59 Moving to Boston and Work with the Foundation
11:17 Inspiration Behind Blind Delights
15:09 The World of Zero Waste Skincare
30:36 From Personal Experience to Product Creation
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick. If you have any questions for Penn and moses let them know. Give them a call at (720) 712-8856 or email them at feedback@aftersight.org

May 30, 2024 • 27min
Living Full Out: Taking Action and Finding Balance
Summary
The episode features a conversation with Nancy Solari, a woman who is changing the world with her work. The hosts, Penn and Moses Street, share their recent challenging experiences and discuss the importance of reaching out for help. Nancy talks about her journey, her show, and her upcoming project. The conversation emphasizes the value of connection, support, and taking action in life.
Takeaways
The importance of reaching out for help during challenging times
The value of connection and support in life
The significance of taking action and living life to the fullest
The impact of inspiring stories and personal growth
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Challenges
03:08 Living Full Out: The Power of Connection and Support
08:35 Inspiring Stories: Overcoming Challenges and Growth
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick. If you have any questions, give us a call at 720-712-8856, or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Thanks for listening and have a great week.

May 23, 2024 • 24min
Oksana Chuchunkova Part 2
Summary
In this conversation, Oksana Chichikova discusses the challenges and discrimination faced by blind individuals in Russia and the United States. She shares her experiences with accessibility in voting and the workplace, as well as her advocacy work for inclusion and diversity. Oksana also highlights the beauty and hospitality of Russia and invites listeners to visit Moscow. The conversation concludes with a message of positivity and kindness.
Takeaways
Blind individuals face discrimination and challenges in both Russia and the United States.
Accessibility in voting and the workplace is still a work in progress.
Advocacy for inclusion and diversity is important to create positive change.
Russia and Moscow offer beautiful sights and a welcoming culture.
Choosing positivity and kindness can make a difference in people's lives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:22 Challenges and Discrimination Faced by Blind Individuals
08:28 Advocacy for Inclusion and Diversity
10:46 The Beauty and Hospitality of Russia
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blind Chick if you have any questions for Penn or Moses please feel free to email us at feedback@aftersight.org or if you're feeling bold you can give us a phone call at 720-712-8856. I hope you have a great week.

May 16, 2024 • 28min
Growing Up Blind in Russia: Finding Belonging
Summary
In this episode of The Blind Chick, Penn and Moses interview Oksana Chuchinkova, the diversity and inclusion manager at a global institution and an advocate for blind beauty. They discuss Oksana's favorite season, her involvement with Bold Blind Beauty, her experiences growing up blind in Russia, and the challenges faced by blind individuals in finding employment. They also touch on the importance of representation and breaking stereotypes. The conversation ends with a teaser for the next episode, where they will explore the accessibility differences between growing up blind in Moscow and the United States.
Takeaways
Blind individuals face challenges in finding employment due to prejudice and inaccessible software.
Representation and breaking stereotypes are important for blind individuals.
Oksana shares her experiences growing up blind in Russia and the importance of finding a sense of belonging.
The next episode will explore the accessibility differences between growing up blind in Moscow and the United States.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Summer Plans
02:17 Introducing Oksana Chuchinkova
03:00 Favorite Season and Bold Blind Beauty
05:40 What is Bold Blind Beauty?
09:30 Passions and Belonging
12:42 Growing Up Blind in Russia
21:33 Unemployment Statistics and Inaccessible Software
24:50 Project for Blind Employment
26:39 Teaser: Accessibility Differences
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 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you next week.

May 9, 2024 • 27min
Unsightly Opinions
Summary
In this conversation, Tamara, also known as Unsightly Opinions, discusses her fashion sense, social media presence, vision loss due to albinism, education, and advocacy work. She shares her daily routine and the challenges of managing social media and editing videos. Tamara's goal is to show possibility, demonstrate capability, and remove barriers for individuals with disabilities. The conversation concludes with a discussion about Mother's Day and the importance of being kind to oneself and others.
Takeaways
Tamara, also known as Unsightly Opinions, is a vlogger, musician, and advocate for individuals with disabilities.
She has a passion for fashion and shares her unique style on social media.
Tamara has albinism, a genetic condition that results in a lack of pigment and affects her vision.
She had a supportive education experience and advocates for equity and accessibility in education.
Tamara's daily routine is busy, as she balances her work as a vlogger and musician with other commitments.
Managing social media and editing videos is time-consuming but rewarding for Tamara.
Her goal is to show possibility, demonstrate capability, and remove barriers for individuals with disabilities.
Mother's Day is an important time to appreciate and honor the special women in our lives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Yoga Class
03:00 Tamara's Fashion Sense
07:58 Tamara's Social Media Presence
13:03 Tamara's Vision Loss and Albinism
16:01 Tamara's Education and Advocacy
22:58 Managing Social Media and Editing Videos
26:58 Tamara's Goals and Impact
29:00 Mother's Day and Conclusion
Thank you for listening to this episode of the blind chick. If you have any questions for PanzaPenn and Moses, please feel free to give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at feedback at at firstsight.org. Have a great week.