Podcast Summary: 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...
Podcast Summary: In this Wellness Wednesday conversation, Beth Gustin, Robin Ennis, and Jeff Thompson slow things down to ask a deceptively simple question: what does “I’m fine” really mean? From aging and identity shifts to vision loss, assisted living, and feeling quietly pushed to the sidelines, the group digs into the unspoken grief that can come with life transitions. They talk about how losing roles, routines, and independence can...
Podcast Summary: 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...
Podcast Summary: 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...
Podcast Summary: 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...
Podcast Summary: 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...
Podcast Summary: Beth, Robin and Jeff dive into what they personally do to replenish their energy whether it be mental or physical. Listen in as they talk about the practices they incorporate into their routines and daily life. From soothing showers, daily intentions, to checking off virtual lists, and celebrating the accomplishments. Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes. Show Hosts:...
Podcast Summary: From the Minnesota State Capitol to the halls of the Department of Transportation, White Cane Day 2025 shined a light on independence, confidence, and community. Jeff Thompson takes listeners inside a vibrant gathering of blind athletes, adventurers, and advocates who prove that anything is possible when you step out and give it a try. From sailing the waves with Twin Cities Blind Sailing to hitting the ice with...
Podcast Summary: In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, Robin Ennis and Jeff Thompson talk about employment and the many aspects of looking for a job. They discuss how to prepare for interviews, what challenges job seekers face today, and how to stay motivated throughout the process. The conversation also touches on how artificial intelligence is changing the way applications are reviewed and how you can position yourself for...
Podcast Summary: White Cane Day 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol was a celebration of pride, freedom, and possibility. Leaders, students, families, and blind, low vision, and deafblind Minnesotans gathered to affirm a simple truth: the white cane is not just a mobility tool — it is dignity, safety, and independence. Speakers honored the history of White Cane Safety Day, first recognized nationally in 1964, and reminded Minnesota that...