In this heartfelt and engaging episode of Volunteer Spotlight, host Evan Starnes kicks off the new year by introducing an exciting new chapter for the show: Jennifer Neptune, Aftersight’s Volunteer and Publications Manager, officially joins as permanent co-host.
The spotlight shines on December’s Volunteer of the Month, Jim Stechman, whose audiobook-quality narrations have elevated Aftersight’s programming, including Blind History Lady, The Getting There Guide, and the Dr. MAC (Mobility Access Council) Newsletter. Jim shares his long history of reading for blind and low vision communities, from early tape-based recordings for rural Colorado to his current work with multiple reading services.
The conversation explores:
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Jim’s journey into volunteer voice work and why storytelling matters
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The impact of accessible information in rural communities
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How Aftersight bridges gaps in transportation, news, and local resources
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Jim’s eclectic taste in music, from Wagner to Slayer
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A deep dive into his home recording setup and audio production background
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Aftersight’s transition to new recording and hosting platforms, including Riverside and Transistor
Jim also reflects on living in Australia and New Zealand, comparing accessibility, infrastructure, and culture, while Jennifer and Evan reinforce Aftersight’s mission to expand content reach and recruit more volunteer readers.
The episode closes with a powerful call to action for listeners to get involved, share the podcast, and help grow Aftersight’s impact across Colorado and beyond.
- (00:00) - – Welcome to Volunteer Spotlight
00:00 – Welcome to Volunteer Spotlight
00:12 – New Year kickoff and Jennifer Neptune joins as co-host
01:40 – Introducing Volunteer of the Month: Jim Stechman
02:18 – Jim’s volunteer history and discovering Aftersight
05:45 – Favorite content to read and the impact of the Dr. MAC Newsletter
07:24 – Voiceover growth and storytelling skills
09:00 – Volunteer recognition and versatility
10:30 – Home recording setup and audio gear talk
12:40 – Riverside and Transistor platform discussion
14:00 – Jim’s music tastes and personal connection to vision loss
15:50 – Rural access and Aftersight’s community mission
19:30 – Encouraging new volunteers to join
20:45 – Living in Australia and New Zealand
24:50 – How much content Aftersight produces weekly
27:30 – Final thoughts and volunteer appreciation
30:40 – Next episode preview an
