Navigating Pathways to Independence: Jada Johnson on Empowering Students Through Transition Services
Release Date: 11/21/2024
Exploring the Outdoors: A Winter Adventure for Blind and Visually Impaired Students
Blind Abilities
Have you ever wanted to experience the thrill of snowshoeing, learn how to build a campfire, or master winter hiking skills? In this special podcast episode, we take you on a journey to Fort Snelling State Park, where ) partnered with to create an unforgettable winter experience for blind and visually impaired students. Guided by experienced outdoor educators, students learned essential winter survival skills, from navigating snowy trails with snowshoes to starting a fire using only a spark and a cotton ball. They also discovered the importance of teamwork, problem-solving, and...
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Wellness Wednesday: Insecure or Secure? Exploring Attachment and Prematurity
Blind Abilities
On this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth and Robin respond to a listener’s question about the connection between premature birth and attachment styles. Research suggests a link between prematurity and both secure and insecure attachment styles. They explore the three insecure attachment styles and how they can shape relationships. While this is just a broad overview, Beth and Robin provide thoughtful insights, making this complex topic accessible and meaningful in a short time. Show Hosts: ...
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Heights Unseen: Julius Mbura’s Mission Beyond Kilimanjaro
Blind Abilities
Julius Mbura, a blind adventurer, advocate, and model from Kenya, is redefining possibility. With an , he scaled Mount Kilimanjaro and six other Kenyan peaks, proving that blindness is no barrier to greatness. Founder of , he aims to provide 4,000 mobility canes to blind individuals in Kenya, championing independence and empowerment. Now an , Julius embodies resilience, adaptability, and the power of self-belief. His journey is not just about conquering mountains—it’s about shattering limits, inspiring others, and proving that vision is not about sight, but about seeing beyond obstacles....
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Experiencing Blindness Through Taste: The Educational Impact of Desserts in the Dark
Blind Abilities
The Desserts in the Dark event at Minnesota State Academy for the Blind (MSAB) provided a hands-on experience for sighted participants to gain insight into the world of blindness. Guests wore blindfolds while enjoying a variety of desserts, decorating cookies, and engaging in a Braille decoding activity. Led by blind and visually impaired students, the event highlighted the students’ capabilities and independence. The fundraiser supports the International Studies Club’s upcoming trip to Sicily, reinforcing that blindness is not a barrier to travel, learning, or adventure. By engaging their...
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Wellness Wednesday: Valentine’s Day Reimagined: Loving Yourself First
Blind Abilities
Valentine’s Day is often seen as a celebration of romantic love, but what if love starts from within? In this Wellness Wednesday episode, Beth and Robin explore the foundation of love—self-love. Without it, we risk settling for less, struggling with boundaries, and feeling unworthy. Self-love isn’t about grand gestures; it’s in the small acts of care—enjoying a morning coffee, setting boundaries, or acknowledging our worth. Whether single or in a relationship, self-love shapes how we give and receive love. So, this Valentine’s Day, ask yourself: Do I truly love and respect myself?...
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Connecting, Learning, and Thriving: Highlights from the ACB Minnesota Convention
Blind Abilities
The ACB Minnesota State Convention: Zooming into 2025 was an exciting gathering of Minnesota’s blindness community, offering insights, connections, and resources. Highlights included updates from State Services for the Blind, discussions on assistive technology like the NLS e-Reader, and opportunities in employment, including pharmacy technician training for those with low vision. The convention also featured a Metro Mobility Q&A, a goalball team headed to nationals, and an inspiring keynote from Scott Thornhill on embracing blindness. Attendees engaged with exhibitors, workshops, and a...
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Two Journeys to Employment: From High School to College and Career – Lessons in Advocacy and Resilience with Gabby Gingras
Blind Abilities
In this 2nd episode of the Two Journeys to Employment, Gabby Gingras shares her inspiring journey from student to professional, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, resilience, and using available resources. As a visually impaired environmental Studies graduate, Gabby describes her role at Rainbow Tree Care, advocating for herself at work, and overcoming challenges in education and employment. She reflects on her experiences as a Peer Educator, where she helped younger students prepare for college and careers by teaching advocacy and assistive technology skills. Gabby’s...
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Two Journeys to Employment: Unlocking Potential: Embracing Resources and Building Your Dream Career - Meet Kat Wilke
Blind Abilities
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...
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Wellness Wednesday: I’m Laughing at That, Now
Blind Abilities
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)! :) Show Hosts: Robin Ennis on the web at ...
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Something to Think About: Managing App Updates and Data Usage: A Little Awareness Goes a Long Way
Blind Abilities
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...
info_outlineIn this Blind Abilities episode, Jeff Thompson interviews Jada Johnson, Multiple Systems and Pathways Navigator at State Services for the Blind. Jada shares how she supports students with disabilities transitioning from high school to college and the workplace by fostering independence through skills development, family engagement, and coordinated services. She highlights the value of early planning, self-advocacy, and tailored experiences, like worksite accommodations and benefits planning. Jada’s approach empowers students to navigate barriers and achieve meaningful, fulfilling employment opportunities.
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.