Blind Abilities

What does it look like to be a blind high school student who's busy, motivated, and dreaming big? In this episode of Blind Abilities, meet Preston—a 15-year-old sophomore, honors and AP student, award-winning speech and debate competitor, musician, and newly selected Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Preston shares what it's really like balancing challenging classes, extracurriculars, and leadership, while also learning strong study habits and time management skills. From placing second in the state in congressional debate to performing in choirs and playing jazz piano, Preston proves that blindness doesn't limit ambition. He also talks about the importance of community, Expanded Core Curriculum skills, and connecting with other blind and visually impaired students through camps, events, and peer leadership. His excitement about bringing students together—and helping others succeed—makes this conversation inspiring, relatable, and full of possibilities for teens figuring out their own path forward. This episode is part of a two-part Peer Ambassador spotlight series. If you like hearing how blind teens are stepping into leadership, building community, and planning for the future, be sure to check out the companion episode featuring the other Peer Ambassador. Together, these conversations offer two unique perspectives—and double the inspiration. 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. Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

In this Blind Abilities episode, listeners meet Ava, a fully blind high school junior and Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Ava shares what it's like balancing a packed academic schedule filled with AP and college-in-the-schools classes, while staying involved in speech, music, and leadership. As captain of her school's speech team and a member of choir and band, Ava talks about the importance of being well-rounded—not just academically strong. She opens up about how self-advocacy, supportive parents, and mentors have helped her grow more independent and confident. Ava also discusses her interest in clinical psychology, her use of assistive technology like NVDA, braille displays, and VoiceOver, and why asking questions is one of the most important skills blind teens can develop. Her story highlights independence, leadership, and how peer connection through SSB helps students prepare for college, careers, and life beyond high school. This episode is part of a shared Peer Ambassador spotlight featuring two blind high school students who bring different experiences, strengths, and goals to the conversation. To hear another perspective on leadership, academics, and life as a blind teen in Minnesota, be sure to check out the companion episode. Together, these stories show how connection, self-advocacy, and community can shape your future. 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. Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

In this Blind Abilities conversation, Michael Colbrunn shares a compelling, firsthand look at the Business Enterprise Program through State Services for the Blind and how it created a pathway to self-employment, confidence, and long-term growth. Michael never imagined himself as a business owner, but with training, guidance, and ongoing support from State Services for the Blind, he discovered an opportunity to build and grow a business on his own terms. From managing vending operations to overseeing a full food service contract, Michael explains how the Business Enterprise Program provides the tools, mentorship, and structure needed to succeed—while still allowing operators to shape their own future. He speaks openly about starting small, learning from mistakes, adapting to technology, and staying competitive in a changing marketplace. Most importantly, Michael emphasizes that this program is not about limitations—it's about ownership, independence, and proving what's possible. For anyone exploring career options through State Services for the Blind, this episode offers insight, motivation, and a real-world success story. 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. Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

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 conversation takes a playful turn into candy machines, sweet treats, and fidget toys—reminding us that even in heavy seasons, moments of joy, humor, and connection still shine bright. Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes. Show Hosts: Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS Www.transitioningthroughchange.com You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Thanks for listening!

Thinking about college but not sure what it's really like as a blind or low vision student? In this College 101 conversation, transition coordinator Shane DeSantis teams up with Kira and Mohamed, two blind/low vision college students, to break it all down from a student point of view. They talk about choosing a campus that fits you, connecting early with the disability office, and getting the right accommodations in place — from Braille and digital textbooks to private testing rooms, extra time, and note-taking tools like Voice Dream and iPad apps. You'll hear how advocating for yourself, emailing professors, and actually talking to them before or after class can make or break a semester. They also share real talk on time management, learning new tech, O&M training, riding the bus, dealing with homesickness, and finding free-food events and support programs that make campus life more fun and less scary. 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. Full Transcript thanks for listening!