In episode 1 of the Two Journeys to Employment series, Kat Wilke shares her inspiring journey from high school to becoming a speech-language pathologist. Diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease in eighth grade, Kat overcame challenges with vision loss by connecting with Minnesota’s State Services for the Blind (SSB), which helped her develop self-advocacy skills and provided vital resources like assistive technology. As a peer educator, Kat shared college tips with other students, fostering a sense of community. She encourages high school students to embrace their unique paths, explore resources, and take pride in their differences. Kat’s story shows how persistence, support, and passion can lead to fulfilling careers and personal growth.

Full Transcript

Beth and Robin revisit their most awkward, cringe-worthy, or downright baffling moments—the ones that weren’t funny at all back then. But hindsight (and a good sense of humor) turn those memories into laughable lessons. Discover how finding the funny side of life’s little mishaps can boost your well-being and lighten your load. Because let’s face it, laughter really is the best therapy (and cheaper than weekly sessions)! :)

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!

In this Something to Think About episode, Jeff brings a bit of awareness to the data usage while updating apps.

Updating apps can significantly impact your data usage, especially if you’re on a limited plan. Regular updates, sometimes over 500MB per app, can quickly add up. While updates can improve security and features, it’s worth considering whether automatic updates are right for you. Adjusting iPhone settings to manually update apps or restricting updates to Wi-Fi can save data and storage. Keep an eye on your app sizes and decide what’s best for your needs. Something to think about!

”

Full Transcript:

Hold onto your canes, because the Tech Abilities crew is back! Jeff and Serina round up Leslie Dickson, Cheryl Macintosh, and Katy Todd for the first New Year  episode spanning the rains of Washington to the heights of Colorado. Cheryl’s ditching the guide dog for some hardcore O&M cane skills, while Katy’s testing out a hoverboard for the blind. Meanwhile, someone finally ordered the Glide navigation device (no more hypotheticals, folks). And just when you thought it was safe to listen, they dive into positivity versus negativity—with math, because why not? Warning: your ears may roll their eyes!

Here are some more links mentioned in this episode:

Voice Dream on the iPhone

Go Anywhere with Glide - A New Navigational Device

Leader Dogs O&M program

This episode of Blind Abilities highlights the inspiring journeys of three individuals—Judy Sanders, Janet Dickelman, and Ben Zheng—who exemplify advocacy in action. Judy recounts her pioneering efforts to challenge discriminatory policies in education and airline seating. Janet reflects on self-advocacy from her school days and her leadership within the American Council of the Blind, emphasizing the power of persistence. Ben shares his transformative journey from sudden blindness to becoming a leader in the Minnesota Association of Blind Students, focusing on self-determination and collective advocacy. Together, they showcase the strength of grassroots advocacy and its role in building a more inclusive world.

Here are some links from this episode:

American Council of the Blind of Minnesota Call:          612) 223-5543

National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota                Call: 612-872-9363

Minnesota Association of Blind Students                         email

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

This special holiday episode of the Wellness Wednesday series on the Blind Abilities Podcast is a heartfelt, lighthearted reflection on the holiday season and the approaching new year. Hosts Beth Gustin and Robin Ennis explore the joys and challenges of the festive season, sharing personal stories, traditions, and self-care tips. Beth’s enthusiasm shines as she discusses her love for holiday music and baking, while Robin fondly recalls family memories, including humorous moments with Santa’s cookies. They also acknowledge the importance of honoring loved ones who are no longer present, offering creative suggestions to celebrate their memory.

The conversation transitions into thoughts about the new year, with Robin sharing her milestone of being halfway through her doctoral program and encouraging listeners to set meaningful resolutions or themes for the year ahead.

The episode encapsulates the spirit of togetherness, celebration, and reflection, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and inspiration for the holidays and beyond.

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!

Read More

Jesse Anderson, Assistive Technology Specialist at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota, discusses the latest advancements in assistive technology for high school and college students. He highlights tools like Aira's AccessAI, BeMyAI, JAWS, and smart glasses, emphasizing the importance of learning both mobile and computer-based solutions to improve independence and efficiency. Jesse also explores emerging technologies, such as multi-line Braille displays and AI-powered apps, while stressing the value of early adoption and flexibility in using various tools. His advice encourages students to embrace technology as a way to overcome challenges and succeed in academics, work, and everyday life.

Full Transcript:

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.

Read More

In Episode 46 of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore the delicate balance between being alone, not being alone, and the subtle spaces where loneliness might linger—especially during the holiday season. While the holidays often evoke joy and celebration, they can also bring feelings of isolation and introspection. Beth and Robin unpack the differences between solitude and loneliness, offering heartfelt perspectives and practical strategies to help navigate this emotional landscape. This episode serves as a gentle reminder that understanding our emotions can be the first step toward finding peace and meaning, no matter where we find ourselves this holiday season.

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!

Read More

The Tech Abilities Crew jingles back into the Blind Abilities studio—live (well, sort of)! Serina, Cindy, and Jeff dive into Black Friday blues, Cyber Monday madness, and the holiday vibes that keep the packages flowing and spirits glowing. From festive decorations and smart lighting to the latest gadgets like the iMac Mini with the M4 chip, there’s plenty to unwrap! Serina takes flight solo with Meta Glasses and Aira, while the crew shares gratitude, laughs, and a touch of nostalgia (Bell Bottom jeans, anyone?). Join us for tech talk, holiday cheer, and an episode to remember. Thanks for tuning in!

Read More

In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson interviews Leslie Dickson, a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist at the VA, who shares her inspiring journey of resilience and success as a blind individual. Born with coloboma, Leslie reveals how her parents’ steadfast encouragement instilled a can-do attitude that carried her through every stage of her educational journey. From navigating high school with large-print textbooks and assistive tools to becoming the first visually impaired student in her college design program, Leslie reflects on the transformative role educators and mentors played in her achievements.

After earning a master’s degree in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy, Leslie now dedicates her career to empowering veterans through hands-on skills like woodworking, ceramics, and leatherworking. She shares her approach to building confidence and independence, teaching that vision loss is not a limitation but an opportunity for growth.

Join Leslie as she recounts her journey and inspires the next generation of blind and low-vision students to pursue their goals with determination and creativity.

Full Transcript:

Read More 

In the “College 101” webinar hosted by State Services for the Blind of Minnesota, three students, Amy, Arianna, and Maddy, shared their experiences transitioning from high school to college. They discussed the importance of self-advocacy, managing accommodations like extended test times, and utilizing assistive technologies such as Braille displays and Voice Dream Reader. The panelists emphasized building strong technology skills and relationships with professors to access essential resources. They also shared tips on tackling challenges, exploring campus life, and balancing independence. Their advice inspires high school students with visual impairments to prepare for a successful college journey.

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.