Episode Title: Holiday Cooking: Taste Without Sight

In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow sits down with Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, to discuss adaptive tools, techniques, and tips for holiday cooking with vision loss. Debra shares her expertise on making cooking safe, enjoyable, and accessible while helping listeners maintain traditions and create memorable meals. From mastering mashed potatoes to baking perfect pies, this episode offers practical advice to navigate the kitchen confidently.

Debra also highlights tools available on The Blind Kitchen's website, including the boil alert disc, adaptive measuring spoons, locking lid pans, and more. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or perfecting a favorite family recipe, this episode inspires listeners to embrace cooking despite vision challenges.

Additionally, Kim reminds listeners to support Aftersight for Colorado Gives Day on December 10th. Donations can be pre-scheduled at ColoradoGives.org by searching for Aftersight.

Contact Information:

Aftersight: Visit ColoradoGives.org and search for Aftersight to donate or learn more.

The Blind Kitchen: Explore tools, recipes, and tips at TheBlindKitchen.com.

Chapter Markers:

00:10 - Introduction: Aftersight and Colorado Gives Day

00:29 - Welcome to the Holiday Series

01:37 - Meet Debra Erickson

01:59 - Overview of The Blind Kitchen

03:06 - Addressing Safety Concerns

03:51 - Relying on Non-Visual Senses in Cooking

04:40 - Tools That Make Cooking Accessible

06:11 - Holiday Gift Ideas for Cooks with Vision Loss

08:21 - The Science Behind the Boil Alert Disc

09:14 - Adaptive Measuring Tools

13:03 - Non-Tool Cooking Tips and Techniques

16:11 - Cooking a Holiday Staple: Mashed Potatoes

24:12 - Maintaining Identity Through Cooking

25:36 - Baking Pies with Vision Loss

31:26 - Hosting Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Meals

35:01 - Traditional Holiday Dishes

36:24 - New Year’s Recipes and Traditions

37:27 - Final Tips and Words of Encouragement

39:17 - Cooking on Different Stove Types

40:09 - Closing and Resources

Enjoy this holiday-themed episode as you navigate life with vision loss and create delightful meals for your loved ones!