Ability Stories: Discussing the Successes, Challenges and Stories of People with Disabilities

Many of you will know Jonathan from his time with ACB Radio, his work with Humanware, and his work with Freedom Scientific, including hosting FS Podcast. Jonathan has been a good friend and an invaluable mentor to me as I have started Ability Stories. This is his story. Topics discussed in part 1:

Jonathan”s early years (including his time at the school for the blind), his career in radio, working in blindness services, and his work in assistive technology.

I am joined by Ray, Adam, Cindy, Kara, and Tyler. We listen to and discuss Louis the Blind Christmas Elf by Jonathan Mosen. To listen to this beyond cute Christmas story without our interruptions, click here

I am joined by Kara, Vicky, Barbie, and Anna. We discuss what it is like to be blind moms. Topics discussed include concerns my panelists had before they became parents, issues with sending kids to school, what my panelists hope their children learn from having blind moms, and lots more. If you would like to tell your disability story or you have an idea for a podcast, send me an email at [email protected]

Soniya is a mother and an elementary school music teacher who is blind. We discuss her childhood, her choice of career, how she got her job, and what it is like to be a blind teacher. Stick around for the end! Soniya sent me a great recording of her first graders singing a song for the podcast.

Ray and I discuss his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa and how it affected his employment history. Ray ends part one of our interview with a moving story of what finally motivated him to seek blindness training.

 Link to Ray’s woodworking business: http://wrightturnonly.com

Susan and I discuss her diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa. We talk about what it was like growing up with gender dysphoria. We discuss her journey to come to peace with her gender identity and how it has impacted her life. She talks about coming to terms with blindness and some of the positive ways it has impacted her life.

Bill talks about why he decided to run a ranch. He talks about what that is like from a blindness perspective. He ends with his thoughts on blindness.

Bill talks about why he started as a rehabilitation counselor at the Division of Services for the Blind in Utah. He talks about some of the things he was able to accomplish.He discusses his decision to apply for director. He talks about what the job was like.