Eyes and Lows with Dr. Ann Wagner

In this episode, Dr. Walker speaks with Dr. Ann Wagner, a board-certified clinical psychologist who spent 26 years working with veterans experiencing PTSD and trauma-related challenges. Dr. Wagner also shares her lived experience of blindness from retinitis pigmentosa, bringing together professional insight and personal perspective as she explores grief, anxiety, adjustment, resilience, and the emotional reality of vision loss.The conversation focuses on how people can adapt to blindness without denying the difficult parts, why grief is a natural part of vision loss, and how community, language, and compassionate support can make the adjustment process feel less isolating. Dr. Wagner also offers thoughtful insight into relationships, asking for help, and practicing self-compassion.

Key Topics

• Dr. Ann Wagner’s background as a clinical psychologist and her lived experience with retinitis pigmentosa
• Growing up in a family with blindness and learning independence through a supportive “figure it out” culture
• How family support, social expectations, and stigma can shape emotional adjustment
• Why narrative therapy and the social model of disability can be deeply validating
• The role of therapy, state services, and accommodations in supporting adjustment to vision loss
• Why grief is a central part of progressive vision loss, including grief for time, independence, identity, and imagined futures
• The Tuttle and Tuttle phases of adjustment and why acceptance cannot be rushed
• How helplessness and grief can point to core values, not just distress
• The importance of community, especially for people who feel isolated or are the only one they know with vision loss
• How naming relationship dilemmas can help couples balance support, independence, and “help by not helping”

About Dr. Ann Wagner

• Board-certified clinical psychologist
• 26 years working with veterans experiencing PTSD and trauma-related challenges
• Retired from the VA in 2023
• Currently focused on consulting and invited speaking
• Lives with blindness caused by retinitis pigmentosa
• Serves on the Mental Health Advisory Council for the Foundation Fighting Blindness
• Email:[email protected]

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

• Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/
  • Credits
    • Host: Brittany McLemore
    • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

Morgan Simon, also known as

The Vision of Mo

shares how vision loss, chronic uveitis, military life, and content creation have shaped her identity and perspective. This conversation explores grief, acceptance, resilience, and the power of representation for blind and low-vision listeners. It also offers practical insight into accessibility tools, self-advocacy, and building a supportive relationship.

Key Topics

• Morgan explains how her content creation started during her husband’s boot camp as a way to pass time, then evolved into a platform for military spouse life and visual impairment advocacy.
• She shares how negative comments about her appearance motivated her to speak more openly about visual impairment and turn criticism into advocacy.
• Morgan talks about losing more vision in 2024 and the grieving process that followed before she reached a place of acceptance.
• She explains chronic uveitis, including how inflammation in the eye can flare up unexpectedly and require ongoing management.
• Morgan describes the 2024 health crisis that led to fluid, swelling, scar tissue, retinal detachment, and a surgery which improved her vision but did not restore it to normal.
• She reflects on returning home to Texas and feeling isolated because the people around her did not fully understand what she was experiencing.
• Morgan discusses grieving the life she expected to have, including driving regularly, working, and feeling confident in her identity.
• She shares how spirituality, therapy, and fact-checking negative thoughts have helped her manage anxiety and rebuild confidence.
• Morgan opens up about how vision loss affected her marriage and how her husband’s support helped her challenge feelings of being unworthy of love.
• She discusses learning to communicate her needs instead of isolating or minimizing her emotions.
• Morgan explains how military spouse life taught her independence through solo travel, adapting to change, and learning to trust herself.
• She addresses misconceptions about visual impairment, especially the belief that blind and low-vision people are not independent or always need assistance.
• Morgan highlights the importance of authentic representation for young visually impaired women who may not often see people like themselves in media.
• She shares accessibility tools and strategies that help her navigate paperwork, menus, daily tasks, and unfamiliar situations.

Search for @thevisionofmo on Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

• Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/
  • Credits
    • Host: Brittany McLemore
    • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

Nick Mendler on building Eyespy.org for the blind and low-vision community

Nick Mendler, founder and president of the Eyespy Foundation, joins the show to share how a retinitis pigmentosa diagnosis at 16 shaped his life and inspired him to build a resource hub for the blind and low-vision community. This conversation covers diagnosis, mental health, accessibility, AI, and the long-term vision for Eyespy as a navigator for people who need support.

In this episode

• Nick shares how his retinitis pigmentosa diagnosis at 16 left him with a pamphlet and a follow up appointment, but little real guidance.
• He explains the family history behind his vision loss, including a great grandfather who described his sight as “shotgun vision.”
• Brittany and Nick discuss the emotional impact of vision loss, especially the uncertainty, anxiety, and identity shifts that can come with it.
• Nick talks about the role of therapy and why mental health support matters not only for newly diagnosed people, but also for advocates, family members, and professionals.
• He describes the three groups iSpy serves: the affected community, advocates like family and coworkers, and academics such as doctors, therapists, and mobility specialists.
• Nick explains why iSpy is built around curation and navigation, helping people find the right resource instead of forcing them to sift through fragmented information.
• The conversation covers accessibility as both a technology issue and a people issue, with Nick stressing universal design and building from the beginning.
• Nick shares his view on AI as a helpful tool with real promise, but one that still needs human oversight and caution around privacy and hallucinations.
• He outlines iSpy’s growth plans, including city by city navigation models, local support, and eventually dedicated navigators in major metro areas.
• Nick explains that his long term goal is for iSpy to outlive him and serve future generations as a trusted guide for life after diagnosis.

Eyespy / Nick Mendler

• Eyepy.org:https://eyespy.org
• Eyepy Foundation:https://eyespyfoundation.org

Event mentioned

• Fashion Pawty:https://thefashionpawty.com

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

• Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/
  • Credits
    • Host: Brittany McLemore
    • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

From Corporate Career to Creative Inspiration: The Reinvention of Tarris Marie

Discover the inspiring journey of Tarris Marie, a woman who transformed her life after her diagnosis of Stargardt's disease, shifting from a successful corporate career to becoming a published author and motivational speaker. Learn how faith, resilience, and a desire to inspire others drove her through loss, reinvention, and the celebration of her gifts.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction: Turning moments into stories of resilience
• 02:17 - Transition from corporate professional to author and artist
• 04:40 - Defining success: from accolades to serving others
• 06:07 - The impact of vision loss and redefining purpose
• 08:55 - Understanding Stargardt’s disease and diagnosis experience
• 11:22 - How vision loss shaped her relationships and work life
• 16:24 - A pivotal moment during a presentation that confirmed her diagnosis
• 18:47 - Walking away from a corporate career: emotional reflections
• 21:10 - The low point: battling depression and anxiety post-diagnosis
• 23:28 - Leaning on faith and spirituality during transitions
• 25:46 - Rediscovering writing from childhood to present day
• 28:38 - Writing as therapy, purpose, and creative outlet
• 34:17 - Surprising realizations and achievements in her reinvention
• 35:44 - Learning to adapt: tools and technology that enabled independence
• 39:26 - Heightened senses: embracing the full experience of life and perception
• 44:08 - Representation and community support for Black women with disabilities
• 45:34 - The importance of open conversations about disability and community efforts
• 47:28 - Using voice and platform to reshape culture and break stereotypes
• 50:13 - Unique and surprising facts about her journey and resilience
• 52:54 - Highs and lows: celebrating victories and overcoming struggles
• 54:20 - Words of encouragement for those facing vision loss and self-doubt
• 56:45 - Upcoming books and how to stay connected with Tarris Marie's work
• Resources & Links:
  • Blaque Pearle by Tarris Marie: www.amazon.com/dp/B09V5G84L7
  • Empress Creed by Tarris Marie: www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXYZ1234
  • Pre-order: Black Juliet (Available on Audible): www.audible.com/pd/Black-Julyet
  • Tarris Marie on Instagram: instagram.com/Tarrismarie
  • Tarris Marie on Facebook: facebook.com/Tarrismarieauthor
  • Tarris Marie's Official Website: Tarrismarie.com

  Connect with Tarris Marie:

  • Instagram: instagram.com/Tarrismarie
  • Facebook: facebook.com/Tarrismarieauthor
  • YouTube: youtube.com/Tarrismarie

  Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

  • Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/
    • Credits
      • Host: Brittany McLemore
      • Producer: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, we dive into the dynamic world of Lachi, a powerhouse in the music and advocacy scene. Based in New York City, Lachi is not just a recording artist and songwriter, but also a touring performer, record producer, media personality, author, and a passionate advocate for disability culture. Her journey is a testament to living boldly and using her diverse talents to inspire change.

In This Episode

• Lachi’s Early Life:Discover how her musical journey began and the influences that shaped her path.
• Diagnosis and Acceptance:Learn about her experience with being legally blind and neurodivergent, and how she embraced these aspects of her identity.
• Glam Canes and Identity:Explore the significance of her glam canes in expressing her identity and fostering visibility.
• Art and Advocacy:Understand how Lachi blends her artistic pursuits with advocacy to create community and drive change.
• Future Projects:Get a sneak peek into her upcoming projects, including a children's album promoting disability pride.
• Advice and Reflections:Hear Lachi's insights on mental health, community support, and embracing your true self.

Timestamps

• 00:00 - Introduction to Lachi and the theme of authenticity
• 02:21 - Lachi’s background and early influences
• 06:03 - Navigating her diagnosis and embracing identity
• 08:04 - The cultural impact of glam canes
• 12:43 - Advocacy in the music industry
• 20:39 - Creating allies and systemic change
• 31:07 - Challenging misconceptions about disability
• 40:51 - Inspiration behind her book, I Identify as Blind
• 48:55 - Upcoming projects and advice for listeners

Resources & Links

• I Identify as Blind (book): www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSP7LJVE
• Lachi’s official website: www.lachimusic.com
• Ramped organization: www.ramped.org

Connect with Lachi:

• Twitter: www.twitter.com/lachimusic
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/lach

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

• Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/
  • Credits
    • Host: Brittany McLemore
    • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, Janet LaBreck shares her journey navigating blindness and advocating for disability rights. She reflects on her impactful work within a transformative administration, contributing to significant policy changes.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction
• 00:45 - Background and diagnosis
• 02:08 - School challenges
• 03:58 - Medical systems
• 05:44 - Vision loss adaptation
• 07:33 - Mobility training
• 09:01 - Living with RP
• 12:48 - Overcoming prognoses
• 14:14 - Independence
• 16:38 - Educational inclusivity
• 18:36 - Academic focus
• 22:22 - High school transition
• 24:45 - Social acceptance
• 27:34 - Resilience and advocacy
• 30:27 - Policy reform
• 33:20 - Disability policy roles
• 36:13 - Vocational experiences
• 39:23 - Community building
• 45:08 - Trust and empowerment
• 47:01 - Mobility tools
• 48:58 - Resilience strategies
• 50:19 - Educating others
• 54:08 - Training guides
• 55:36 - Humor in life
• 58:56 - Policy advocacy
• 62:07 - Global initiatives
• 64:56 - Policy updates
• 66:48 - Government contributions
• 70:04 - Consulting work
• 72:32 - Advice for young people
• 74:23 - Community and self-advocacy
• 77:38 - Contact information

Resources & Links:

• Synergy Consulting Partners: http://jl-scp-vr.com
• U.S. Department of Education - Rehabilitation Services Administration: https://rsa.ed.gov
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - 1990: https://www.ada.gov

Connect with Janet LaBreck:

• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetlabreck
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/janetlabreck

Vocal Point: Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Dr, Brittany McLemore
  • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

In this inspiring episode of "Eyes and Lows," we sit down with Aracely Rosillo, a certified vision rehabilitation therapist and member of the blind community, to explore her journey, insights, and resources that empower independence. Whether you're navigating your own journey or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical advice, community-building tips, and a powerful testament to resilience

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction to Aracely and her connection to the blindness community
• (02:10) - Understanding the role of vision rehabilitation therapists
• (04:35) - Exploring mental health and mental resilience in the context of blindness
• (06:07) - Challenging stereotypes: How to handle misconceptions in public
• (08:47) - Top assistive technology tools: Seeing AI, Be My Eyes, Aira
• (12:20) - The evolution of Aracely’s personal journey and adjustment to blindness
• (15:50) - Funny or awkward stories about social interactions and public reactions
• (19:29) - Cultural background and the impact of family dynamics
• (25:50) - Supporting children and youth with visual impairments

Resources & Links:

• Seeing AI — Microsoft’s AI tool for visually impaired
• Be My Eyes — Live volunteer assistance app
• Aira — On-demand visual support service
• United in Stride — Connecting blind and sighted individuals for activities
• Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency — Support for employment and independence
• National Federation of the Blind — Advocacy and support organization
• American Council of the Blind — Resources and community for blind individuals
• VIBS — Visually Impaired Blindness Society of Georgia
• Chelsea Nguyen Travel Planning — Accessibility-focused travel planning (hypothetical)

Connect with Aracely Rosillo:

• Email: [email protected]

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Iisha Hillman
  • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, host Brittany McLemore speaks with Neisha Aireal, a low vision advocate and content creator. Neisha shares her journey of resilience, navigating life with low vision, and the importance of education and advocacy. They discuss the challenges of social media perceptions, the significance of accessibility tools, and the need for community support. Neisha emphasizes the importance of mental health and finding joy in life despite challenges, while also encouraging others to pursue their passions and start their journeys in content creation.

Takeaways

• Neisha started content creation during COVID on TikTok.
• Going viral helped Neisha embrace her low vision perspective.
• Education is crucial in combating ignorance about disabilities.
• Neisha's condition is called optic nerve hypoplasia.
• She experienced a lack of resources in early education.
• Advocacy is about sharing experiences and educating others.
• Mental health is important for those with disabilities.
• Finding community is essential for support and encouragement.
• Starting is the key to success in content creation.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Resilience and Advocacy

03:01Neisha's Journey into Content Creation

06:00Understanding Low Vision and Its Impact

09:05Navigating School and Resources

12:13Social Interactions and Friendships

15:08Stereotypes and Misconceptions

17:56Accessibility Tools and Technology

21:04Advocacy Through Transparency Tuesdays

24:13Mental Health and Isolation

27:00Finding Community and Support

30:11Personal Interests and Hobbies

33:00Resilience and Overcoming Challenges

36:00Goals and Aspirations for the Future

39:06Advice for Aspiring Content Creators

Contact Neisha Aireal:

https://www.instagram.com/neisha_aireal

www.tiktok.com/@neisha_aireal

https://www.youtube.com/@Neisha_Aireal

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Brittany McLemore
  • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, Matthew Reeves LPC, NCC, CRC, a licensed professional counselor, shares his journey and insights on navigating life with a disability. He discusses his personal experiences with Stargardt disease, the importance of resilience, and how he helps clients overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, and trauma. Matthew also highlights the significance of self-care and building community for individuals with disabilities.

Takeaways

• Resilience is about transforming challenges into strengths.
• Stargardt disease affects central vision, leading to legal blindness.
• Self-care involves nourishing activities, not just indulgence.
• Building community is crucial for individuals with disabilities.
• Matthew Reeves specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma therapy.
• Vision loss can lead to profound isolation and unique grieving processes.
• Matthew's approach focuses on solving root problems, not just symptoms.
• Entrepreneurship can be a viable path for people with disabilities.
• Matthew emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and independence.
• Contact Matthew at integralMHS.com for counseling services.

Chapters

• Introduction to Eyes and Lows- 00:00:00
• Matthew Reeves' Background- 00:03:00
• Understanding Stargardt Disease- 00:09:00
• Living with an Invisible Disability- 00:15:00
• Building Community and Resilience- 00:21:00
• Therapeutic Approaches and Insights- 00:27:00
• Dating and Disability- 00:33:00
• Societal Perceptions and Challenges- 00:39:00
• Entrepreneurship and Independence- 00:45:00

Contact Matthew Reeves:

Email: http://integralmhs.com/

Podcast; http://insightoutpod.com/

Certifications: LPC, NCC, CRC

Services: Counseling services specializing in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, and trauma. He also has expertise in dealing with issues related to disability and chronic illness, particularly focusing on vision loss and mental health.

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Brittany McLemore
  • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, we explore the inspiring journey of Saving Ven, a visionary leader and co-founder of the Visually Impaired Blind Society. Despite losing her sight at 41, Saving has dedicated her life to empowering others in the blind community. She shares her experiences of resilience, the challenges of navigating life with vision loss, and the importance of community support. Saving also discusses the founding of the Visually Impaired Blind Society and its mission to promote social interaction and independence among the blind and low vision communities.

Takeaways

• Saving Ven's journey from sighted to blind has fueled her passion for helping others.
• The Visually Impaired Blind Society was founded to promote social interaction and independence.
• Community support is crucial for individuals navigating vision loss.
• Saving emphasizes the importance of resilience and persistence in overcoming challenges.
• The society organizes events to bring together the blind and sighted communities.
• Saving's personal story highlights the power of turning adversity into opportunity.
• The society provides resources and guidance for those experiencing vision loss.
• Saving's leadership has inspired many within the blind community.
• The society's annual fundraising event is a key part of its outreach efforts.
• Saving's story is a testament to the strength and determination of the human spirit.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction to Saving Ven
• 00:00:36 Saving's Journey and Challenges
• 00:01:52 Founding the Visually Impaired Blind Society
• 00:26:47 Community Support and Events
• 00:48:33 Saving's Personal Interests and Hobbies
• 00:52:16 Contact Information and Closing Remarks
• Website:

www.vibsociety.org

• Email:

[email protected]

• Phone:

770-609-7439

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word. Learn more at seevp.org. To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Brittany McLemore
  • Recording and Engineering: Patrick Roy