In this powerful episode, Navigating Life with Vision Loss dives into the vital world of legal advocacy for people who are blind or have low vision. Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Dr. Charles W. Powell II, a triple master’s graduate and founder of Divine Visions Consulting and Paralegal Services. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in 2012, Dr. Powell transformed personal adversity into professional purpose, providing legal resources and ADA advocacy to underserved communities.

Together, they explore:

The importance of knowing your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Practical examples of accessibility challenges in workplaces, restaurants, schools, and digital content

The power of self-advocacy and how to recognize when you’re entitled—not asking for favors, but demanding equality

Technology’s double-edged sword: advancements in access, but high costs

How to influence policy change and where to begin if you're new to advocacy

The difference between a guide dog and emotional support animal under ADA

And why blindness is a “diffability,” not a disability

Dr. Powell shares personal stories that will inspire you to advocate more confidently for yourself and others, and reminds us that advocacy doesn’t always mean protests or courtrooms—sometimes, it starts with a conversation or a post on social media.

📌 Chapter Markers:

00:00 – Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss

00:27 – Introduction to Advocacy Series and Dr. Powell

02:52 – Why Legal Advocacy Matters

05:09 – Dr. Powell’s Unexpected Journey to Law and Justice

07:27 – Founding Divine Visions and Serving Underserved Communities

09:55 – Educating Professors and Institutions through Advocacy

12:18 – Understanding Legal Advocacy and Knowing Your Rights

14:43 – Workplace Discrimination and Real Stories

17:13 – Employers Who Get It Right

19:34 – Equal Access to Technology: Opportunities and Limitations

22:01 – Meta Glasses and Unexpected Accessibility

24:24 – How Companies Can Listen and Respond to Advocacy

26:51 – Social Advocacy: From Lawn Mowers to Menus

29:12 – Guide Dogs, ADA, and Public Confusion

31:33 – Misuse of Service Animal Rules

33:55 – Pride in Presentation and Daily Advocacy

36:26 – Influencing Policy: From Local Change to National Reform

38:48 – Stories from the Past: Generational Resilience

41:10 – Real-World Impact of Persistent Advocacy

43:38 – Where to Start: Resources and Practical Steps

46:01 – Final Thoughts: “Blind, Not Broken”

📬 Contact Information:

Dr. Charles W. Powell II

Founder, Divine Visions Consulting and Paralegal Services

📧 Email: [email protected]