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- 2 weeks ago35 min
Career Climb: Building Confidence, Careers, and Independence for the Future
Career Climb is more than a weekend workshop—it's a launchpad for blind and low vision students to explore careers, strengthen independence, and build confidence for the future. Through hands-on activities in self-discovery, budgeting, resumes, LinkedIn, interviewing, networking, and self-advocacy, students learn not just how to find a job, but how to build a life with purpose. What makes Career Climb unique is its focus on process: students develop tools they can return to throughout their lives whenever they face a new opportunity or transition. Parents will appreciate seeing their students grow in confidence and leadership. Teachers will value the practical career-readiness and self-determination skills reinforced throughout the weekend. Students gain peer support, individualized coaching, and a roadmap for turning aspirations into action. From elevator pitches to mock interviews and follow-up coaching, Career Climb plants seeds of ambition, preparation, and possibility for a stronger future. Related Links: Penny forward - Penny Forward empowers individuals with vision loss to navigate the complicated landscape of personal finance through education, mentoring, and mutual support. Our commitment extends to every facet of personal finance, encompassing activities related to earning, managing, and growing one's finances. Jeremy W. Grandstaff on LinkedIn - Senior Learning & Organization Development Strategist 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 shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Thanks for listening! Full Transcript
- Apr 18, 202610 min
From Possibility to Pathway: Building Futures Through Pre-ETS
Across the country, students who are blind, deafBlind, or low vision are asking big questions about their future—and in Minnesota, those questions are turning into real opportunities. In this episode of Blind Abilities, we explore how Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) through State Services for the Blind are helping students move from uncertainty to action. Through hands-on experiences like summer programs, outdoor adventures, career exploration, and workplace training, students build independence, confidence, and real-world skills. From canoeing and snowshoeing to job fairs and mentorship from blind professionals, these experiences go beyond the classroom and into everyday life. Students also gain access to assistive technology and learn the critical skill of self-advocacy—tools that last a lifetime. This episode offers an inspiring look at what happens when students are given the space, support, and opportunity to explore their potential—and begin building the future they imagine. 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 shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Thanks for listening! Full Transcript
- Apr 8, 202625 min
NVDA Coach: From First Keystroke to Confidence—A Free Tool Changing How NVDA Is Learned
Tony Gebhard returns to the Blind Abilities studio to introduce NVDA Coach—an innovative, free add-on designed to change how NVDA is taught and learned around the world. Built from real classroom experience, NVDA Coach supports both beginners and instructors with structured lessons, guided modules, and practical skill-building. Tony created this tool not just for his own students, but for anyone ready to learn NVDA with confidence—no matter where they are. With over 40 lessons organized into clear chapters, NVDA Coach removes the intimidation factor and replaces it with a step-by-step path to success. Teachers are using it as a ready-made curriculum, while students are gaining independence faster than ever. And this is just the beginning—new updates are on the horizon, promising even more ways to learn, grow, and explore. Learn more at: www.TonyGebhard.me/NVDACoach Contact: info@TonyGebhard.me Thanks for listening to Blind Abilities!
- Apr 2, 202641 min
Blind Abilities - the Musical No. 5: When the Screen Spoke Back to Me - Curiosity, Confidence, and Accessible Tech
We return with another Blind Abilities Musical about that first time you heard the screen speak back to you. How you dug in an learned about accessibility and use it in the workplace. And how the ever changing tech world keeps you on your toes. After the music ends, Pete, Christina, Lori, and Jeff jump back into the studio for a lively, reflective, and thoughtful conversation about accessible technology and how it has changed their lives. They reflect on the first time they heard JAWS, VoiceOver, or ZoomText Extra speak, and how those early moments opened doors to independence, speed, confidence, and inclusion. The group talks about learning curves, keyboard shortcuts, workplace productivity, iPhone accessibility, adapting to software updates, and the importance of maintaining strong basic skills when technology changes. Along the way, they share memories of older tools, joke about screen readers, sound speed, and emojis, and compare how Macs, Windows PCs, and iPhones fit into daily life. A strong theme throughout the conversation is curiosity: the willingness to explore, problem-solve, and keep learning. The discussion feels warm, personal, and empowering, showing that technology is most powerful when it helps people participate fully and independently. Thanks for listening! Full Transcript
- Apr 1, 202611 min
No Limits to Learning: A Summer Program That Builds Independence
Step into a summer that could change everything. At the Colorado Center for the Blind, the No Limits to Learning program invites blind, deafblind, and low vision students ages 15–21 to live, learn, and grow in a fully immersive experience. You'll stay in real apartments, cook your own meals, travel using public transit, and build independence from morning to night. Days are filled with hands-on training in Braille, technology, orientation and mobility, and independent living skills—taught by blind mentors who've been where you are. Beyond the classroom, adventure awaits with rock climbing, whitewater rafting, martial arts, and more. As past student Christopher shares, this program unlocks confidence and proves what's truly possible. You won't just learn skills—you'll discover your strength, your community, and your future. If you're ready to challenge expectations and gain real independence, this is your moment. Find out more about the Youth Programs offered by Colorado Center on the web. 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 shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Thanks for listening! Full Transcript
- Mar 27, 202640 min
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 shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Thanks for listening! Full Transcript
- Mar 23, 202616 min
Aira Goes Wearable Again: Unlocking Freedom with Meta Glasses
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!
- Mar 20, 202612 min
New Language, New Opportunities: Unlocking Independence Through English Learning with Abbi Mayland
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 shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Thanks for listening! Full Transcript
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