A Spark for Success: Empowering Youth to Step Into Their Future

In this opening episode of The Blind Drive, Jeff Thompson, Liz Bottner, and Tim Schwartz get real about “ambassadorship,” authenticity, and living blind life on our own terms. With humor and sharp storytelling—from a “Scarlet Letter B” riff to a crosswalk shove gone wrong—they tackle the tension between educating the public and simply being human, bad days and all. They argue that respect should start with humanness first, that education helps but can’t be forced, and that confidence grows by getting out there: bus rides, ballgames, breakfast spots, and small wins that build community. Practical encouragement and gentle challenges abound—bring a friend, take that first route, learn the skills, and decide when (or if) to teach in the moment. No waiting for perfect tech. This is about motion, mindset, and everyday mastery—today.   thanks for sharing and listening. Give us feedback and suggestions at 612-367-6093, we'd love to hear from you!   Full Transcript:  

In this Blind Abilities podcast, Jeff Thompson speaks with Laila Nachar, the Multiple Systems and Pathways Navigator at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Laila’s new role is all about helping blind and visually impaired students, ages 14 to 21, prepare for their futures by focusing on pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS). She works alongside families, schools, and counselors to ensure students explore careers, gain real-world work experiences, and most importantly develop self-advocacy skills that will last a lifetime.   Laila emphasizes that every student’s journey is unique, and her job is to keep the focus on their dreams, not just family expectations. Through job exploration, work-based learning, and advocacy training, she helps students build confidence, discover true interests, and map out meaningful goals. Parents also gain valuable resources to support informed choices. This episode highlights a powerful partnership that empowers youth to take charge of their own future with confidence and independence.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

Welcome to the very first episode of Blind Abilities: Unscripted — where tech, news, and everyday life with blindness and low vision all come together, in the moment. No script. No filter. Just straight talk.   Join the Unscripted Crew — Cheryl McIntosh, Seyoon Choi, Sree Roy, and Jeff Thompson — as they kick things off with an honest, lively conversation about gadgets, success tools, and the everyday realities of living blind and low vision.   What’s inside this episode: Keyboards that click (and don’t break the bank): From the budget-friendly Logitech K270 Wireless Keyboard to the feature-packed Keychron V6 Max Mechanical Keyboard, the crew shares what works best for productivity. Apple talk: With the next Apple Event on the horizon, they explore the best time to buy an iPhone — and when to hold off. AirTag adventures: Sure, AirTags are handy… but would you drop one in a park, walk away five miles, and then see if you could track it down? Sree did — and the results might surprise you. Everyday wins, challenges, and laughs: From start to finish, it’s real conversation, unscripted and unpolished — just the way we like it.   This inaugural episode sets the tone: fun, spontaneous, and all about sharing experiences that matter.   We want to hear from you! If you enjoyed the show, share it with a friend, and leave us your feedback at 612-367-6093. Your voice could shape future episodes of Unscripted.  

Envision’s Level Up program is more than a summer camp—it’s a launching pad for blind and visually impaired students stepping into independence, college, and careers. Since 2006, Level Up has combined skill-building with hands-on experiences that prepare students for life beyond high school. From technology training to culinary arts, engineering, health careers, and team-building, every activity is designed to spark curiosity and confidence. Students live in college dorms, gaining valuable independence while connecting with peers who truly understand their journey. Parents and teachers see firsthand how the program strengthens self-advocacy, resilience, and readiness for the future. With mentorship from successful blind professionals and guidance on career and college pathways, students leave empowered to connect, engage, and act on their dreams. Whether it’s their first year or a return visit, Level Up helps each student discover new strengths, friendships, and opportunities to thrive.   Be sure to check out the video mentioned in this episode and to find out more about Level Up and what Envision has to offer, check them out on the web at Envision Level Up.   Other Podcasts of interests:   From Confidence to Career: Explore Summer with the LEAP Program   Come Sail Away or Kick Into Confidence: Summer Camps That Empower at Lighthouse Center for Vital Living   From Classroom to Career: Vanward Consulting is Reshaping How Blind and Low Vision Youth Prepare for College, Careers, and Life   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

AI wearables have been an emerging industry for the blind and visually impaired. While there are a number of options, not all are designed using the input of the blind. With direct feedback from blind users, EchoVision Glasses have been shaped by well-respected leaders in America’s blindness organizations such as NFB and ACB, icons such as Stevie Wonder, and a wide variety of potential users spanning our community.   Kevin Chao returns to the virtual studio after connecting with Simon Bonenfant at the 2025 National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind to discuss how Agiga was founded, spotlight some of EchoVision’s unique elements and demo several exciting features on the horizon.   From the Agiga Website: “Empowering Independence, One View at a Time. EchoVision isn’t just another smart glasses—it’s a gateway to independence, knowledge, and boundless possibilities. Designed with the blind, for the blind, EchoVision empowers individuals to access visual information effortlessly and live life hands-free.” To learn more and pre-order your glasses, visit the Agiga website. To contact Agiga directly, call them at (408) 940-5215 or email them at [email protected]   Like them on Facebook, subscribe to their YouTube channel. To connect with the Agiga community join their Google Group, and Facebook Group.   We hope you have enjoyed this interview. If you would like to learn more and contact us, you can follow us on Twitter @Blind Abilities On the web at www.blindabilities.com Get the Free Blind Abilities App on the App Store and Google Play Store Give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093. We would love to hear from you! Check out the Blind Abilities Community on Facebook, the Blind Abilities Page and Career Resources for the Blind and Visually Impaired group. To contact Simon directly, send him an email at [email protected]  

In this reflective and energizing episode of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin and Robin Ennis join Jeff Thompson to dive into the overwhelming noise of modern life and how it contributes to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Through honest dialogue, they explore the pressures of uncertainty—from shifting politics to economic instability—and how it impacts our ability to stay grounded. The conversation unpacks the difference between burnout and compassion fatigue, offering practical strategies for staying present, reclaiming small moments of joy, and embracing self-care—even in 5-minute increments. With humor, warmth, and relatable stories (like reorganizing coffee mugs or escaping into comedy), this episode reminds listeners that it’s okay to take breaks, limit news intake, and find connection in unexpected places. Whether you’re stuck in analysis paralysis or feeling the weight of “too much to do,” this conversation may give you ideas on ways to help you breathe, reset, and move forward with confidence.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093. They are looking forward to hearing from you!   Full Transcript  

Buckle up for a mid-summer check-in with Peer Ambassadors Amy and Maddy as they reflect on the adventures, growth, and unexpected moments that shaped their summer—and look ahead to the college road just around the bend. From leading mock interviews and connecting with students through Zoom sessions, to hiking trails with all-terrain canes and navigating dorm shopping trips, these two share candid stories from the driver’s seat of transition. With insight into disability services, professor prep, campus navigation, and finding your people, this episode is like a GPS for blind and visually impaired students getting ready for their own journey into college and careers. Whether you’re paddling through new experiences or pulling over to re-check your route, Amy and Maddy prove that with the right support and mindset, you’re never traveling alone. It’s mid-summer, the engine’s still running, and the next sign says: College Ahead.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript    

Get ready to explore, experiment, and own the kitchen! In this exciting episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson visits the Ready, Set, Prep program at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota—a hands-on class designed for blind and visually impaired students to learn cooking and life skills in a fully accessible kitchen. From learning how to shred chicken, use the oven, or master kitchen gadgets like garlic presses and rice cookers, students are not only building skills but gaining confidence, independence, and community. Led by rehabilitation teacher Kia Sadler and Pre-ETS counselor Kate Larson, the program is about more than food—it’s about teamwork, creativity, and realizing that you can take the lead in your own kitchen. Hear from students who share their favorite recipes, learning moments, and how they’re already impressing their families at home. This is where blind youth cook up confidence—one recipe at a time!   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin and Robin Ennis, joined by Jeff Thompson, explore the evolving landscape of accessibility through the lens of an upcoming all-inclusive hotel designed specifically with people with disabilities in mind. Inspired by entrepreneur Joe Morgan—who previously created a fully accessible theme park and water park—this hotel aims to go beyond ADA standards by offering individualized accommodations tailored to guest needs. The hosts reflect on the tension between inclusive design and over-specialization, raising thoughtful questions about whether hyper-accommodation can unintentionally lead to segregation. They emphasize the importance of choice, autonomy, and thoughtful design that includes, rather than isolates. Through personal stories and spirited conversation, the episode challenges listeners to consider how we can create spaces that foster belonging, equality, and dignity—without sacrificing individuality. It’s a rich dialogue on what true inclusion looks like and how it can positively ripple through communities and institutions.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!   Full Transcript  

In this heartfelt episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff tackle the often-overlooked topic of isolation as we age—especially for those living with disabilities. They explore how life transitions, loss of social circles, and the rise of technology can deepen loneliness, even while offering more independence. With personal stories, practical tips, and a splash of humor, the trio encourages listeners to take small steps—like making a phone call or joining a virtual meetup—to reconnect and rediscover joy in community. Aging with purpose, courage, and curiosity might just start with one brave “hello.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:                   Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com                   Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS                   Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!   Full Transcript