NLVL 405: They Took My Sight, Not My Vision - Chris "The Blind Steppa"

Episode SummaryChristopher “The Official Blind Steppa” Felder joins Kim Wardlow to share the story of losing his sight after being shot during a robbery in 2012, on the same day he received his EMS badge and was preparing to begin a new career. Chris describes leaving the hospital unable to see, spending years searching for a different medical answer, and resisting the reality of blindness even while learning some of the skills he would eventually need.Nearly eight years into that journey, a simple moment with his son became a turning point. With no one available to take his son to basketball practice, Chris chose to pick up his cane, trust God, and get him there himself. That decision began a new chapter of independence, acceptance, faith, advocacy, and purpose.Chris speaks candidly about depression, a suicide attempt, loneliness, grief, parenting, and the reality that accepting blindness does not mean the difficult days disappear. He explains how podcasting became a form of therapy and eventually a way to encourage people around the world who are navigating blindness, disability, trauma, and mental-health struggles.The conversation also explores the importance of finding community, seeking therapy, connecting with other blind and low-vision people, and refusing to allow disability to erase identity or ambition. Today, Chris is building his work as a motivational speaker, podcaster, advocate, and entrepreneur while challenging others to keep moving forward, even when life looks nothing like the future they originally imagined.Content NoteThis episode contains candid discussion of gun violence, depression, suicidal thoughts and a suicide attempt, trauma, grief, and recovery.CreditsShow: Navigating Life with Vision LossHost: Kim WardlowGuest: Christopher “The Official Blind Steppa” FelderGuest Podcast: Blind But Now I SeeProducer: Jonathan PricePresented by: AftersightContact InformationChristopher “The Official Blind Steppa” FelderWebsite: officialblindsteppa.comInstagram: @official_blindsteppaPodcast: Blind But Now I SeeBooking Email: fobcnotenyc@gmail.comBooking Phone: 347-653-0076AftersightWebsite: aftersight.orgEmail: contact@aftersight.orgMain Office: 303-786-7777Listener Feedback: feedback@aftersight.orgFeedback Line: 720-712-8856ProducerJonathan PriceEmail: jonathan@aftersight.orgOffice: 303-786-7777