Blind Abilities – The Musical reimagines the podcast as a live theatrical broadcast, blending news-style dialogue, personal storytelling, and original music into a fully immersive audio stage. Framed as a newsroom, the episode moves through three powerful themes: wearable technology, progressive vision loss, and the enduring importance of Braille. Original songs are not interludes but narrative engines, giving emotional shape to independence, fear, preparation, and identity. Conversations flow seamlessly into lyrics, turning lived experience into melody and reflection into rhythm. Voices from the field, candid roundtable moments, and musical storytelling create a sense of movement, as if scenes are shifting behind the curtain. At its core, this episode is about transition—technology becoming invisible, vision loss accelerating, skills becoming survival, and Braille standing firm as literacy and infrastructure. Blind Abilities – The Musical is not just heard; it is felt, inviting listeners to imagine the stage, recognize themselves in the stories, and hear blindness through harmony, honesty, and shared humanity.

For more podcasts with a blindness perspective check us out on the web at www.blindabilities .com. And if you want to leave some feedback give us some suggestions give us a call at 612 367 6093.

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This Blind Abilities episode shines a spotlight on internships for blind and low-vision students—and why starting early can open real doors. Tou Yang and Randi Lasher from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota (SSB), break down how high school and college students can access paid and unpaid internships that build skills, confidence, and career momentum. Listeners learn what internships really are, why they matter beyond just a paycheck, and how they connect classroom learning to real-world experience. The conversation highlights how SSB helps students explore careers, prepare for post-secondary education, advocate for themselves, and find meaningful internship opportunities across Minnesota. From local city programs to statewide options in technology, healthcare, STEM, public service, and more, this episode makes one thing clear: opportunities exist—but timing matters. Whether you're planning for summer, next year, or your future career path, this episode gives students practical guidance, resources, and motivation to take action and get ahead.

Links to Internship Opportunities mentioned in this episode:

• Handshake - Summer Internships for College Students

· Step Up - Kick Start Your Career with Step Up (Minneapolis)

· Right Start - Youth Jobs Internships (St. Paul)

· Genisis Works - Where Tomorrow's Work Force Begins

· Urban Scholars - Internships and Training

· Scrubs Camp - Medical Careers

· Seeds Student Worker Program

· Phoenix Student Worker Program - Science, Technology, engineering or Mathematics

· State of Minnesota Careers Interns and Student Workers

· BrookLynk- Summer Student Internship Program (Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park)

· Tree Trust Summer Students Internships

· Three Rivers Park Internship Program

· The Brand lab - Marketing and Graphic Design Program

· the Minnesota Historical Society - Work in a Museum!

· SSB Youth Services Work Based Learning and Work Readiness opportunities

· Career Force Locations in Minnesota

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.

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In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, Robin Ennis, and Jeff Thompson reflect on the everyday interactions we share with strangers—Uber and Lyft drivers, bus drivers, and people we meet briefly along our paths. Do we engage, or do we shut the moment down? Do we end the exchange with a firm period, or leave a softer opening? The conversation explores how even short encounters can unexpectedly resonate, sometimes leaving us wishing we had said thank you or expressed gratitude before parting. While we're often taught not to talk to strangers, this episode thoughtfully examines how brief, mindful conversations can create connection, reflection, and meaning—long after the moment has passed.

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!

Thanks for listening!

In this reflective year-end episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff slow things down to explore what the past year has taught them about growth, anxiety, self-doubt, and resilience. Through personal stories—screen-share mishaps, returning to music, professional pressure, and DIY anxiety—they unpack how unrealistic expectations and negative thought loops can hold us back. The conversation reframes resolutions into gentler themes like peace, happiness, and self-check-ins. With warmth and honesty, the trio emphasizes persistence, self-compassion, and recognizing the strengths that helped us through challenges—reminding listeners that progress often begins with a pause.

Full Transcript

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!

Thanks for listening!

In this UnScripted episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson and Sree Roy dive into real-life tech, travel, and accessibility—no script, just experience. From recovering a lost iPhone overseas using Find My, to navigating chaotic airports and noisy streets as a blind traveler, the conversation blends humor with practical takeaways. The episode also marks the end of the Blind Abilities app and reflects on how learning technology has evolved. Jeff and Sree explore why building adaptable skills matters—bridging tablets to PCs, learning screen readers, choosing accessible keyboards, and keeping up with rapid iOS changes. It's a candid, instructional discussion rooted in everyday independence.

Links of interest:

iBugToday.org

Keychron Keyboards

Logitech K270 Keyboard

Thanks for listening!

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What does it look like to be a blind high school student who's busy, motivated, and dreaming big? In this episode of Blind Abilities, meet Preston—a 15-year-old sophomore, honors and AP student, award-winning speech and debate competitor, musician, and newly selected Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Preston shares what it's really like balancing challenging classes, extracurriculars, and leadership, while also learning strong study habits and time management skills. From placing second in the state in congressional debate to performing in choirs and playing jazz piano, Preston proves that blindness doesn't limit ambition. He also talks about the importance of community, Expanded Core Curriculum skills, and connecting with other blind and visually impaired students through camps, events, and peer leadership. His excitement about bringing students together—and helping others succeed—makes this conversation inspiring, relatable, and full of possibilities for teens figuring out their own path forward.

This episode is part of a two-part Peer Ambassador spotlight series. If you like hearing how blind teens are stepping into leadership, building community, and planning for the future, be sure to check out the companion episode featuring the other Peer Ambassador. Together, these conversations offer two unique perspectives—and double the inspiration.

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.

Links of interests:

The Spectacle Newsletter

Youth Services at SSB

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In this Blind Abilities episode, listeners meet Ava, a fully blind high school junior and Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Ava shares what it's like balancing a packed academic schedule filled with AP and college-in-the-schools classes, while staying involved in speech, music, and leadership. As captain of her school's speech team and a member of choir and band, Ava talks about the importance of being well-rounded—not just academically strong. She opens up about how self-advocacy, supportive parents, and mentors have helped her grow more independent and confident. Ava also discusses her interest in clinical psychology, her use of assistive technology like NVDA, braille displays, and VoiceOver, and why asking questions is one of the most important skills blind teens can develop. Her story highlights independence, leadership, and how peer connection through SSB helps students prepare for college, careers, and life beyond high school.

This episode is part of a shared Peer Ambassador spotlight featuring two blind high school students who bring different experiences, strengths, and goals to the conversation. To hear another perspective on leadership, academics, and life as a blind teen in Minnesota, be sure to check out the companion episode. Together, these stories show how connection, self-advocacy, and community can shape your future.

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.

Links of interests:

The Spectacle Newsletter

Youth Services at SSB

Full Transcript

Thanks for listening!

In this Blind Abilities conversation, Michael Colbrunn shares a compelling, firsthand look at the Business Enterprise Program through State Services for the Blind and how it created a pathway to self-employment, confidence, and long-term growth. Michael never imagined himself as a business owner, but with training, guidance, and ongoing support from State Services for the Blind, he discovered an opportunity to build and grow a business on his own terms. From managing vending operations to overseeing a full food service contract, Michael explains how the Business Enterprise Program provides the tools, mentorship, and structure needed to succeed—while still allowing operators to shape their own future. He speaks openly about starting small, learning from mistakes, adapting to technology, and staying competitive in a changing marketplace. Most importantly, Michael emphasizes that this program is not about limitations—it's about ownership, independence, and proving what's possible. For anyone exploring career options through State Services for the Blind, this episode offers insight, motivation, and a real-world success story.

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.

Links of interests:

The Spectacle Newsletter

Youth Services at SSB

Full Transcript

Thanks for listening!

In this joyful and reflective holiday edition of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff gather around the warmth of the season to explore the memories we hold, the challenges we face, and the ways we find light through it all. They gently unpack how grief and stress can surface during the holidays, while also celebrating how far we've come. With the glow of laughter, nostalgia, and a little holiday sparkle, the conversation takes a playful turn into candy machines, sweet treats, and fidget toys—reminding us that even in heavy seasons, moments of joy, humor, and connection still shine bright.

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!

Thanks for listening!

Thinking about college but not sure what it's really like as a blind or low vision student? In this College 101 conversation, transition coordinator Shane DeSantis teams up with Kira and Mohamed, two blind/low vision college students, to break it all down from a student point of view. They talk about choosing a campus that fits you, connecting early with the disability office, and getting the right accommodations in place — from Braille and digital textbooks to private testing rooms, extra time, and note-taking tools like Voice Dream and iPad apps. You'll hear how advocating for yourself, emailing professors, and actually talking to them before or after class can make or break a semester. They also share real talk on time management, learning new tech, O&M training, riding the bus, dealing with homesickness, and finding free-food events and support programs that make campus life more fun and less scary.

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!

In this Blind Abilities episode, Jeff Thompson talks with Jeff Bishop, president of BITS—Blind Information Technology Specialists—an all-volunteer organization empowering blind and low-vision individuals through accessible technology, community, and hands-on learning. Bishop outlines BITS' rapid growth, affordable memberships, and expanding reach across platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, email lists, and mentoring channels. BITS offers high-impact training, including Python programming, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, NVDA, and AI immersion courses—all with fully accessible materials and strong completion rates. Their partnerships with APH, Bookshare, NLS, Microsoft, and others ensure free resources and meaningful industry feedback opportunities, including paid participation in Microsoft's Project Empower. With free Remote Incident Manager (RIM) support, active mentoring, and a welcoming culture, BITS serves beginners and experts alike. As the group considers rebranding the "S" in BITS to Solutions, the mission remains clear: meeting people where they are and helping them thrive in their digital lives.

Link to BITS