Internships are Making a Difference for These Four College Students, Joshua, Qi, Jackson, and Josh, During Their Transition from High School to College and the Workplace

Full Transcript Podcast Summary: In this focus on student Internships, State Services for the Blind's Transition Work Opportunities Navigator, Randi Lasher, gives us an overview of student internships and how SSB works with the students to assist them in achieving their career goals. Listen in as Joshua, Qi, Jackson, and Josh share their experiences of gaining and internship, describing what they do and give some good advice for those seeking...

Wellness Wednesday: Navigating Therapy—Finding the Right Therapist and Knowing When to Seek Help

Podcast Summary: In Episode 37 of Wellness Wednesday, join hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, as they delve into the essential steps for finding a good therapist. Discover what to look for in a therapist's style, how to navigate insurance versus private pay options, and most importantly, how to recognize when therapy might be the right choice for you. Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or looking to switch...

Unlocking Potential: The Summer Transition  Program Tours State Services for the Blind

Podcast Summary: Full Transcript The Students of  the Summer Transition Program (STP), toured State Services for the Blind (SSB), which provides resources and training in independent living skills, job readiness, orientation & mobility, and college preparation for blind, visually impaired, and deaf-blind students. During this tour, students engage in activities like job shadowing, mock interviews, employment readiness, and...

Paul Martz: Science fiction author and technology blogger for Applevis is embracing Challenges and Pushing Boundaries. And What about AI?

Podcast Summary: In the futuristic world of digital landscapes and interstellar travel, Paul Martz stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity. An award-winning blind science fiction author, technology blogger for Applevis, and former punk rock drummer, Paul thrives on embracing challenges and pushing boundaries. Despite his visual impairment, Paul has ventured into the uncharted territories of  becoming an editor while his...

Wellness Wednesday: Conflict Resolution – When to Walk Away

Podcast Summary: In episode 36 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, delve into the dynamics of arguments and effective communication during conflicts. They share insights on recognizing the signs that indicate it’s time to step back from a heated discussion. Join Beth and Robin as they offer practical advice on how to avoid unproductive battles of words and maintain healthier conversations. Check out all...

Wellness Wednesday: The Loneliness of Inaccessibility – How Group and Classroom Settings Can Be Inclusive or Leave Us Wanting

Podcast Summary: In this 35th episode of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore how group settings like college classes, meetings, and PowerPoint presentations can often be inaccessible. They discuss how this inaccessibility can make it hard for people to access information and participate in discussions, leading to feelings of isolation. Beth and Robin share their experiences and strategies for handling...

SSB Opportunities: Golf Event for Blind and Visually Impaired Students on June 17

Podcast Summary: Full Transcript Shane DeSantis joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to announce the June 17th Golf Event for students with State services for the Blind. When Monday June 17 from 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon Where Oak Marsh Golf Course526 Inwood Ave NorthOakdale, MN Who SSB students and students 8 and up. What An introduction to golf specifically for students who are blind or visually impaired will include a brief...

Gina Martin’s Journey Toward Founding Diverse Abilities is a Testament to Resilience and Transformation

Podcast Summary: Join us on Blind Abilities as we talk with Gina Martin, founder of Diverse Abilities. Diagnosed with Progressive Cone Dystrophy in 1992, Gina's journey to embrace her blindness began in 2015. After an intensive 9-month rehabilitation at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, Gina transformed her life and career, focusing on disability awareness and empowerment. Since founding Diverse Abilities in 2019, she has delivered impactful...

Wellness Wednesday: Finding Your True Self: Embracing Your Unique Journey

Podcast Summary: In this 34th episode of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore the concept of self-identity and the impact of external influences on our personal definitions of who we are. Join Beth and Robin as they guide you through the process of embracing your authentic self and understanding that your identity is yours to define, free from the noise and expectations of others. Tune in to discover...

Peer  to Peer with Maddy and Amy: An Introduction to the Peer Ambassadors for Transition Age Students

Podcast Summary: Full Transcript Maddy and Amy are SSB students conducting peer-to-peer programming for students across the state for instruction on various topics of interest for visually impaired students. They are also available to meet with others one-on-one for peer discussion and will be planning virtual and in-person group activities! Meet Addy and Amy as they talk about their schooling and leadership roles as Peer Ambassadors at State...