Envision’s Level Up program is more than a summer camp—it’s a launching pad for blind and visually impaired students stepping into independence, college, and careers. Since 2006, Level Up has combined skill-building with hands-on experiences that prepare students for life beyond high school. From technology training to culinary arts, engineering, health careers, and team-building, every activity is designed to spark curiosity and confidence. Students live in college dorms, gaining valuable independence while connecting with peers who truly understand their journey. Parents and teachers see firsthand how the program strengthens self-advocacy, resilience, and readiness for the future. With mentorship from successful blind professionals and guidance on career and college pathways, students leave empowered to connect, engage, and act on their dreams. Whether it’s their first year or a return visit, Level Up helps each student discover new strengths, friendships, and opportunities to thrive.

 

Be sure to check out the video mentioned in this episode and to find out more about Level Up and what Envision has to offer, check them out on the web at Envision Level Up.

 

Other Podcasts of interests:

 

From Confidence to Career: Explore Summer with the LEAP Program

 

Come Sail Away or Kick Into Confidence: Summer Camps That Empower at Lighthouse Center for Vital Living

 

From Classroom to Career: Vanward Consulting is Reshaping How Blind and Low Vision Youth Prepare for College, Careers, and Life

 

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

 

AI wearables have been an emerging industry for the blind and visually impaired. While there are a number of options, not all are designed using the input of the blind. With direct feedback from blind users, EchoVision Glasses have been shaped by well-respected leaders in America’s blindness organizations such as NFB and ACB, icons such as Stevie Wonder, and a wide variety of potential users spanning our community.

 

Kevin Chao returns to the virtual studio after connecting with Simon Bonenfant at the 2025 National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind to discuss how Agiga was founded, spotlight some of EchoVision’s unique elements and demo several exciting features on the horizon.

 

From the Agiga Website:

“Empowering Independence, One View at a Time. EchoVision isn’t just another smart glasses—it’s a gateway to independence, knowledge, and boundless possibilities. Designed with the blind, for the blind, EchoVision empowers individuals to access visual information effortlessly and live life hands-free.”

To learn more and pre-order your glasses, visit the Agiga website. To contact Agiga directly, call them at (408) 940-5215 or email them at [email protected]

 

Like them on Facebook, subscribe to their YouTube channel. To connect with the Agiga community join their Google Group, and Facebook Group.

 

We hope you have enjoyed this interview. If you would like to learn more and contact us, you can follow us on Twitter @Blind Abilities

On the web at www.blindabilities.com

Get the Free Blind Abilities App on the App Store and Google Play Store

Give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093. We would love to hear from you!

Check out the Blind Abilities Community on Facebook, the Blind Abilities Page and Career Resources for the Blind and Visually Impaired group.

To contact Simon directly, send him an email at [email protected]

 

In this reflective and energizing episode of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin and Robin Ennis join Jeff Thompson to dive into the overwhelming noise of modern life and how it contributes to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Through honest dialogue, they explore the pressures of uncertainty—from shifting politics to economic instability—and how it impacts our ability to stay grounded. The conversation unpacks the difference between burnout and compassion fatigue, offering practical strategies for staying present, reclaiming small moments of joy, and embracing self-care—even in 5-minute increments. With humor, warmth, and relatable stories (like reorganizing coffee mugs or escaping into comedy), this episode reminds listeners that it’s okay to take breaks, limit news intake, and find connection in unexpected places. Whether you’re stuck in analysis paralysis or feeling the weight of “too much to do,” this conversation may give you ideas on ways to help you breathe, reset, and move forward with confidence.

 

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!

 

Full Transcript

 

Buckle up for a mid-summer check-in with Peer Ambassadors Amy and Maddy as they reflect on the adventures, growth, and unexpected moments that shaped their summer—and look ahead to the college road just around the bend. From leading mock interviews and connecting with students through Zoom sessions, to hiking trails with all-terrain canes and navigating dorm shopping trips, these two share candid stories from the driver’s seat of transition. With insight into disability services, professor prep, campus navigation, and finding your people, this episode is like a GPS for blind and visually impaired students getting ready for their own journey into college and careers. Whether you’re paddling through new experiences or pulling over to re-check your route, Amy and Maddy prove that with the right support and mindset, you’re never traveling alone. It’s mid-summer, the engine’s still running, and the next sign says: College Ahead.

 

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

 

 

Get ready to explore, experiment, and own the kitchen! In this exciting episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson visits the Ready, Set, Prep program at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota—a hands-on class designed for blind and visually impaired students to learn cooking and life skills in a fully accessible kitchen. From learning how to shred chicken, use the oven, or master kitchen gadgets like garlic presses and rice cookers, students are not only building skills but gaining confidence, independence, and community. Led by rehabilitation teacher Kia Sadler and Pre-ETS counselor Kate Larson, the program is about more than food—it’s about teamwork, creativity, and realizing that you can take the lead in your own kitchen. Hear from students who share their favorite recipes, learning moments, and how they’re already impressing their families at home. This is where blind youth cook up confidence—one recipe at a time!

 

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

 

In this episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin and Robin Ennis, joined by Jeff Thompson, explore the evolving landscape of accessibility through the lens of an upcoming all-inclusive hotel designed specifically with people with disabilities in mind. Inspired by entrepreneur Joe Morgan—who previously created a fully accessible theme park and water park—this hotel aims to go beyond ADA standards by offering individualized accommodations tailored to guest needs. The hosts reflect on the tension between inclusive design and over-specialization, raising thoughtful questions about whether hyper-accommodation can unintentionally lead to segregation. They emphasize the importance of choice, autonomy, and thoughtful design that includes, rather than isolates. Through personal stories and spirited conversation, the episode challenges listeners to consider how we can create spaces that foster belonging, equality, and dignity—without sacrificing individuality. It’s a rich dialogue on what true inclusion looks like and how it can positively ripple through communities and institutions.

 

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 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

 

Full Transcript

 

In this heartfelt episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth, Robin, and Jeff tackle the often-overlooked topic of isolation as we age—especially for those living with disabilities. They explore how life transitions, loss of social circles, and the rise of technology can deepen loneliness, even while offering more independence. With personal stories, practical tips, and a splash of humor, the trio encourages listeners to take small steps—like making a phone call or joining a virtual meetup—to reconnect and rediscover joy in community. Aging with purpose, courage, and curiosity might just start with one brave “hello.

 

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 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

 

Full Transcript

 

Ever wonder how a book becomes Braille? Or how an employee manual turns into an audio file? The students of the Summer Transition Program (STP) at the University of St. Thomas got to see it all firsthand! During their visit to State Services for the Blind’s Communication Center, students explored the magic behind accessible formats—meeting the tech wizards who make it happen and learning about assistive tools that could power their future. They heard about the  recording booths, checked out  the Braille department, and even learned how Radio Talking Book delivers news and magazines 24/7. Oh, and there was plenty of popcorn! With mock interviews, peer mentors, and chances to ask all the questions, it was a day packed with fun, learning, and mind-opening moments. For blind and low vision students ready to take on college, careers, and more, this behind-the-scenes adventure was a taste of what’s possible—with the right tools and support.

 

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!

 

Discover a world where accessibility meets adventure! In this inspiring episode, Jeff Thompson explores Seable Holidays, a unique travel company transforming vacations for blind and visually impaired travelers. CEO Damiano La Rocca, along with team members Lucy and Daniel, share how Seable provides trained local sighted guides, personalized trip planning, and full support to make once-distant destinations like Sicily, Scotland, Thailand, and the Galapagos Islands completely accessible. Hear how travelers gain confidence, independence, and lifelong friendships while experiencing unforgettable holidays. Whether it’s a solo trip, a group getaway, or a school excursion, Seable proves that accessible travel is not just possible—it’s life-changing!

 

You can email Seable Holidays at:

[email protected] or [email protected].

On the web at Seable.Co.UK

 

Thanks for listening!

 

Full Transcript:

 

Jeff Thompson welcomes Christine Malec to the Blind Abilities studio to shine a spotlight on the LuminoCity Podcast—an immersive audio experience created for the Luminato Festival in Toronto. Designed with accessibility in mind, LuminoCity goes far beyond traditional coverage by weaving together artist interviews, on-site audio-rich reporting, and vibrant audio description that brings the festival to life for blind and low-vision listeners. From behind-the-scenes moments to thematic deep dives, Christine and the LuminoCity team redefine inclusive storytelling. Discover how art, sound, and accessibility come together in one extraordinary podcast—available wherever you stream.

 

Links from this episode:

LuminoCity Podcast page

Luminato Festival website

Christine Malec