Curiosity Opens the Door: Louie McGee's Journey from Minnesota to Law School

What does it take to step beyond comfort and truly build independence? In this episode of Blind Abilities, Louie McGee shares his journey from Minnesota to law school in Chicago, proving that curiosity—not perfection—is the real key to success. Born with Stargardt's, Louie doesn't just adapt—he explores. From completing a triathlon and rafting the Grand Canyon to studying abroad in London, he shows how asking questions and taking chances can open doors you didn't even know existed.   For students beginning their academic journey, Louie offers a powerful message: your path isn't about having everything figured out—it's about being curious enough to try. Whether it's learning new technology, navigating a new city, or simply asking for help, every step forward builds confidence.   This conversation is a reminder that independence isn't about doing everything alone—it's about discovering how to move through the world in your own way.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB 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.   Thanks for listening!   Full Transcript  

Aira is stepping into a new era of accessibility with hands-free support through Meta smart glasses, and Jenine Stanley joins Jeff Thompson to break it all down. With the latest update to the Aira Explorer app, users can now connect directly to Meta glasses and access visual interpreting services with a simple voice command—no phone handling required.   This shift brings back the power of wearable access, allowing users to stay fully engaged in their environment while navigating, working, or tackling everyday tasks. Whether you're using a cane, walking with a guide dog, or even working in the shop, Aira now moves with you—seamlessly and efficiently.    From GPS navigation to document assistance and real-time support from trained interpreters, Aira continues to expand what's possible. Add in Access AI and customizable call options, and it's clear: independence just got an upgrade—hands free and ready when you are. You can find out more about Aira and all their services on the web at Aira.io. Thanks for listening!

What if learning English could open the door to independence, education, and meaningful work? In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson sits down with English Language Learning specialist Abbi Mayland from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Abbi shares how she helps students who are blind, DeafBlind, or low vision — and who may not speak English—build the skills they need to succeed.   Using creative, hands-on teaching methods like real objects, conversation, audio learning, and Braille, Abbi supports students from all over the world as they grow in confidence and communication. Many begin with little or no English, but soon find themselves holding real conversations and navigating daily life with greater independence.   If you or your family member is learning English and facing vision challenges, this episode offers hope, encouragement, and a clear message: language does not have to be a barrier—success is possible.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB   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.   Thanks for listening!   Full Transcript

What's the difference between self-esteem and self-confidence—and why does something as simple as a pair of shoes sometimes spark the conversation? In this Wellness Wednesday episode, Beth, Robin, and Jeff explore how the way we present ourselves can shape how we feel on the inside. From compliments and comments to personal style choices, the crew reflects on how outside voices and inner dialogue influence confidence and self-worth. Do we dress for comfort, expression, or approval? And how do we find the balance between listening to feedback and staying true to ourselves? Join the Wellness Wednesday crew as they unpack identity, style, and the journey toward feeling comfortable in your own skin.   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 leave a message for Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Thanks for listening!

In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff welcomes Kevin Chao, an early adopter who has taken more than 60 rides in autonomous vehicles across San Francisco and Austin. Kevin shares his firsthand experiences riding in Tesla RoboTaxis, Waymo vehicles, and Amazon's new Zoox autonomous vehicle—built from the ground up with no steering wheel and inward-facing seats. He describes what it's like to request, ride, and interact with these driverless systems while offering feedback that helps improve the experience. From accessibility to independence, Kevin explores what autonomous transportation could mean for blind and low vision travelers as the future of mobility begins arriving today. Thanks for listening!

What happens when the foundation of disability rights is challenged? In this powerful conversation, Jeff Thompson welcomes back disability advocate and Villanova graduate Kaleigh Brendle to talk about the growing legal challenge to Section 504—one of the most important civil rights protections for people with disabilities. Kaleigh explains how recent lawsuits could weaken the requirement that people with disabilities receive services in the most integrated settings, a principle that helps keep people living, learning, and working in their communities rather than being pushed into institutions. In response, Kaleigh founded Judys League, an organization dedicated to defending disability rights and raising awareness about what's at stake. Throughout the conversation, she shares why Section 504 is the foundation for laws like the ADA and why public awareness and advocacy matter more than ever.   This episode is a call to action: stay informed, share the story, and remember that every voice can help protect the rights and opportunities that generations fought to achieve. Find out more about Judys League on the web at JudysLeague.org and all the socials at JudysLeague. Connect up by sending an email to Judys League. thanks for listening.   Full Transcript

In Episode 4 of Blind Abilities – The Musical, Lori, Christina, Pete, and Jeff explore the strength and diversity found within the blind and low vision community by highlighting two major national organizations serving people who are blind or visually impaired.   Inspired by the spirit of Thomas Paine's Revolutionary War pamphlets—written to encourage and unite—we imagined what it might be like to discover each organization through words meant to inform, inspire, and invite participation. Through music and storytelling, this episode reflects on the opportunities, advocacy, community, and shared purpose these organizations provide.   Featuring three original songs, the journey begins by exploring ideas and perspectives, allowing each voice to be heard before bringing everything together in a powerful final number.   Because in the end, what matters most is that we move forward—together.   Be sure to listen through to the end to learn more about each organization and to hear upcoming national convention dates.   We hope you enjoy the show. Thanks for listening!

In this episode, Jeff travels to the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington to meet CEO Caren Forsten and Dr. Suleiman Alibhai, the organization's low vision clinical director—and the conversation leaves him feeling something that can be hard to come by after years of appointments: real hope. Dr. Alibhai isn't focused only on charts, drops, or procedures. He starts with the person—what daily life feels like right now, what has become harder, what's been lost, and where someone is emotionally before anyone starts talking about solutions.   Caren shares how POB's "Seeing Hope" programs wrap support around that medical care: local and virtual support groups, tech talks, town halls, and resource centers where people can explore tools and strategies alongside staff who bring lived experience to the table. Together, they frame low vision as a continuum, not a label—and rehabilitation as a steady, human process made up of small, practical wins, encouragement, and the kind of family support that empowers instead of takes over. What comes through most is simple but powerful: you're not alone, and you're not done. Links and contact info: Prevention of Blindness Society web site - YourEyes.org Give them a call at 202-234-1010   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

Josh Subhan shares a real-world look at how internships can open doors from college to career. As a University of Minnesota grad who is turning his internship at Metro Transit into a full-time job, Josh breaks down what internships are, when to start applying, and how the process actually works. He walks through finding opportunities on company career pages and sites like Indeed, preparing resumes and interviews, and using campus career centers and State Services for the Blind for mock interviews and connections. Josh also talks honestly about disclosure, accessibility tools, and finding your niche in a changing job market. Most of all, he reminds students not to get discouraged—applications can be tough, but persistence, preparation, and using your network can make the difference between waiting for an opportunity and landing one. Link to the Internship episode:   Internships for Students: Real Work, Real Experience, Real Opportunities   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   Thanks for listening!

Envision Blind Sports is expanding to Minnesota—and that means more chances for blind and low vision youth to move, compete, and discover what they're capable of. In this episode, Jeff talks with Minnesota Regional Manager Ricky Ties and Program Director Jillian Stringfellow about how adaptive sports build confidence, independence, and real community. From wrestling, goalball, and beep baseball to kayaking, swimming, and a jam-packed summer camp with 25+ adaptive sports, Envision focuses on exposure—helping kids find something they love and carry that confidence back into school and life. Ricky shares how sports helped him grow as a visually impaired athlete on the world stage, while Jillian highlights how families, volunteers, and local partners make these opportunities possible. The message is simple and powerful: get out of your comfort zone, try something new, and discover what's possible. Fear less. Do more. Related Links:   EnvisionBlindsports.org Email Ricky Ties   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.   Thanks for listening!   Full Transcript