Ambiguously Blind

STORIES OF RESILIENCE Meningitis Survivors and Advocates Share Their Journeys    Welcome to another special and poignant episode of the Destiny is Debatable podcast. As we acknowledge World Meningitis Day on October 5th, we are honored to present a collection of heartfelt stories from around the globe, shared by individuals whose lives have been profoundly affected by meningitis.   Christine Bennborn from Sweden recounts the harrowing experience of losing her son, Mathias, to meningitis and sepsis in 2019. Driven by this tragedy, Christine founded Meningokockfonden in Sweden, dedicating herself to spreading awareness and advocating for better vaccination policies.   From Georgia, Shaquille Hodge, who transformed his grief into action after his wife, Percilla, succumbed to meningitis while they were on vacation. Shaquille established the PAMAH Foundation, named in honor of his wife, to educate and raise awareness about this silent killer through car shows and scholarship programs.   Katie Thompson, a meningitis survivor from South Carolina, who faced excruciating pain and near-death but emerged as a passionate patient advocate. Katie's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of vaccination and awareness.   Claytone Musungu from Kenya shares his journey of founding the Meningitis Information Foundation in Nairobi, Kenya after witnessing the devastating impact of meningitis on a close friend's family. Claytone's efforts to educate the public and work with the government aim to defeat meningitis by 2030.   Jayme Fahrer from New Jersey, who survived bacterial meningitis in 2009. Despite enduring severe physical and mental challenges, Jamie's determination to spread awareness and support others is truly inspiring. Her story emphasizes the urgent need for prompt medical care and the importance of prevention.   Tom Nutt, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now in the UK, sheds light on the critical work of his organization. From funding research and raising awareness to supporting affected individuals, Tom's insights underscore the multifaceted approach needed to combat this disease. He also highlights the importance of vaccination and knowing the signs and symptoms of meningitis.   John Grimes wraps things up with a reminder of hope. Through his experience with meningitis, he quickly learned that survival wasn't the end of his journey, it was just the beginning. John also offers his advice on the importance of acting now to shape your life into the future you want.   Throughout this episode, you'll hear powerful narratives of loss, resilience, and hope. These stories serve as a compelling reminder of the impact meningitis can have and the importance of continued efforts to spread awareness and promote vaccination. By sharing their experiences, our guests not only honor their loved ones but also strive to protect others from this preventable disease.   Through these efforts we will not just defeat meningitis, we'll make meningitis nothing more than a historical footnote.    

Kevin's story begins with a passion for motocross, fueled by the adrenaline of performing gravity-defying stunts. But life took a dramatic turn when a catastrophic accident left him paralyzed. In a split second, Kevin had to decide between two grim outcomes: staying on his bike and risking a broken neck or jumping off and potentially breaking his legs. He chose the latter, leading to a life-altering injury that would test his resilience and spirit.   As fate would have it, Kevin wasn't new to the world of spinal injuries. Just a few years earlier, his father had suffered a similar accident, leaving him paralyzed. The irony of both father and son facing such challenges is not lost on Kevin, who candidly shares the emotional and physical toll it took on his family. His mother, a beacon of resilience, navigated the turbulent waters of having both her husband and son in wheelchairs.   Kevin's recovery journey is a testament to human spirit and determination. From wiggling his first toe six weeks after the accident to walking and riding again within a year, his path was anything but easy. Along the way, he discovered a new passion in Paralympic sledge hockey, eventually earning a bronze medal in Sochi. This experience led him to a new calling: sharing his story and inspiring others through public speaking.   In his keynote presentations and coaching program, Kevin delves into what he calls the "Hero Mindset." He offers invaluable insights into navigating life's transitions, whether due to disability, career changes, or personal challenges. His message is clear: acceptance doesn't mean giving up; it's the first step toward a fulfilling life.   Kevin's humor and candidness make his story relatable and engaging. From humorous anecdotes about crop-dusting VIP audiences to the heartwarming tales of his current life with his girlfriend and her two children, Kevin's narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions and life lessons.   Join us for this compelling episode of Destiny is Debatable and discover how you, too, can adopt the Hero Mindset to overcome life's obstacles and build the life you want.   Don't wait—tune in now and start your journey toward a resilient and fulfilling life!  

In this episode, host John Grimes sits down with Jonathan Tuteur, an executive leadership coach, speaker, and author of the forthcoming book, Seizing Today, to discuss his remarkable journey with epilepsy.  Johnathan shares his story, from frequently being misidentified as John Stewart to his life-changing epilepsy diagnosis at the age of 30. With over 500 seizures, multiple brain surgeries, and countless tests, Jonathan has faced significant challenges. Through his trials and tribulations, he has discovered a new purpose and authenticity in his life.  Listen in as John talks about the complexities of epilepsy, the importance of de-stigmatizing the condition, and his efforts to raise awareness. He also discusses his upcoming book, "Seizing Today: Discovering Purpose and Authenticity in a Life-Changing Diagnosis," which provides an in-depth look into his experiences that highlights resilience, the power of finding your true calling, and the significance of a supportive community.   Does Jon Tuteur look like John Stewart? See for yourself.  

Join us for an inspiring chat with Charlie Kramer, a life coach who's truly mastered the art of living confidently with his disability. We'll dive into his journey with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), an inherited retinal condition that shapes his unique perspective on life and teaches us valuable lessons about resilience and acceptance.   Charlie shares his advocacy for mobility tools like the blind cane and opens up about the profound impact his disability has had on his identity. He sheds light on the importance of individuality, respect, and understanding when interacting with people with disabilities. Plus, he shares personal stories that help us understand the delicate balance between offering help and respecting independence.   We'll explore the hidden aspects of living with a disability and discuss societal norms and attitudes towards disabilities. Charlie likens his experience of sight loss to building a puzzle, emphasizing the importance of individual autonomy in navigating life's challenges. He shares his journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and how he's turned his blindness into opportunities for growth.   And let's not forget that Charlie is also a musician. He discusses his immersive and transformative experience, "Singing in the Dark," a blindfolded singing and healing experience that's as unique as it is enlightening. We'll also get insights from his song, "Vision," which beautifully encapsulates his outlook on life.   Join us as we celebrate Charlie's roles in teaching, coaching, and singing, and discover his innovative approach to disability. Tune in and let's embrace and celebrate the diversity of life, both its opportunities and challenges.   

In this episode we delve into the remarkable journey of Mary Beth O'Connor, author of the memoir, "From Junkie to Judge." This candid conversation beautifully captures her transformation from a troubled childhood filled with violence and neglect, to an eventual Federal Judge. The episode sheds light on pressing issues like mental health, and substance abuse. Explore her personal battles with PTSD, anxiety, and meth addiction, and witness her remarkable resilience as she breaks out from this consuming abyss of negativity to rise as an influential figure in the world of law and education. Discover the significant role that education and dedicated teachers played in her life, offering the guidance and attention she craved as a solace from her turbulent past and gain some valuable life insights from her candid advice to her younger self. Hear her spellbinding journey to overcoming adversity and succeeding in making an impactful change in society. Learn about her incredible transition from a meth addict to a Berkeley Law School graduate, shedding light on the transformative power of perseverance and resilience. Follow her journey to becoming a federal administrative law judge and her meaningful contributions to recovery organizations. Dive deeper into the profound connection between trauma, mental health, and substance abuse, and understand the lifelong consequences of addiction. The episode emphasizes the importance of strong support networks in recovery and offers insights into various recovery pathways that can cater to individual needs. Get inspired by Mary Beth's commitment to spread awareness and education about substance use and recovery challenges. This episode concludes with a powerful message of hope and resilience, reminding us that with patience and persistence, overcoming obstacles is within our reach.   

Join us for a captivating chat with Aaron Hale, a former US Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician turned entrepreneur, ultra endurance athlete, and host of The Point of Impact podcast. Aaron's story is one of resilience, peppered with humor and wisdom.   After losing his sight disarming an IED in Afghanistan and his hearing to bacterial meningitis, Aaron refused to be sidelined. Instead, he dove headfirst into the kitchen, perfected his fudge recipe, and started a chocolate company, Extra Ordinary Delights. With a blend of wit and grit, Aaron shares how he turned adversity into opportunity, offering invaluable insights into overcoming obstacles and thriving against the odds.   Tune in for a dose of inspiration and a dash of humor as Aaron reminds us that even in life's toughest moments, there's always room for extraordinary triumphs.  

In this episode, join us for a deeply insightful conversation with Jonathan Beskin, the founder of SinglesSwag.com and author of "The Least Likely Millionaire: How to Succeed When Everyone Expects You to Fail." Jonathan opens up about his journey of overcoming significant obstacles and mental health challenges, all while navigating a strained relationship with his father during his formative years. Despite these hurdles, Jonathan shares how he discovered the power of channeling his energy into healthy obsessions, ultimately leading him to achieve remarkable success in entrepreneurship and personal growth. Through vulnerability and resilience, Jonathan offers invaluable insights into finding fulfillment and success despite life's adversities. Tune in as we explore the transformative journey of turning pain into power and forging a path towards authenticity and prosperity.   SinglesSwag.com is a subscription box service designed specifically for single women. Singles Swag delivers a variety of products, including beauty items, snacks, accessories, and other lifestyle products, aimed at empowering and celebrating single women.    

John Bryant, a versatile drummer, percussionist, music producer, and educator stops by to visit with host John Bryant about how he got started with drums and the years he spent with Ray Charles and the remarkably unique communication style he and Ray had to keep the band playing on the same tempo.  Based in Dallas Texas, John Bryant boasts a remarkable career spanning collaborations with iconic artists like Ray Charles, Joe Walsh, and Delbert McClinton. With a rich portfolio encompassing major motion pictures, PBS and National Geographic documentaries, and symphony orchestras, Bryant serves as Adjunct Assistant Professor of Drumset Studies and Music Production at Southern Methodist University. A founding member of D'Drum, he has also produced groundbreaking works like "Gamelan D'Drum" in collaboration with Stewart Copeland and the Dallas Symphony. From his early days with the Paul Winter Consort to leading Pyramyd/Phyrework, Bryant's influence resonates through his extensive studio work and performances across renowned recording studios nationwide.   

Co-Founder and CEO, Heath Wilson, stops by to share the Aro story and mission to create a new generation of intentional families. Aro leverages the science of habit formation and motivational design to ensure parents and kids don't miss out on what's most important by helping reclaim time spent on their phones.    

As we move into a new year, I think it's a good time to evaluate many things in life. In this episode, Dr Angela Holliday-Bell stops by to talk about the importance of sleep. She says that sleep is the solution to everything. So, we dive into that bold claim and talk about the common mistakes we make about sleep and its importance in our daily lives. Dr Holliday-Bell shares some tips to get us sleeping better immediately and talks about her new book, Sleeping On The Job: Proven Strategies To Optimize Your Workplace Performance And Personal Wellbeing Through Better Sleep.   

Founder of the Best Ever You Network and a woman who can still walk on her hands, Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino stops by to talk about her new book, The Success Guidebook and the importance of redefining success and how it's measured. Elizabeth also shares the dramatic origin story of the Best Ever You Network and how living her daily life with multiple life-threatening food allergies turned her into a chocolate chip baking machine.   

After answering some wacky questions, Sara shares a bit about her story that begins  as a young, single mother and how she discovered her path to forgiveness and healing from the scars of sexual abuse and the trauma of an unexpected divorce through a daily practice of actively embracing the power and beauty of nature. Sara explains the transformative experience that occurs while leading her clients through the Grand Canyon.    Sara also believes in an alternative definition of forgiveness, stresses the importance of laughter and shares some priceless advise she received from her best friend, her mother. And, Sara shares her recipe for her signature drink, hot water, honey and lemon that may or may not also contain bourbon.   

In a world of spoken thought and musings, the humble little podcast known as Ambiguously Blind has undergone a profound transformation, shedding its audio cocoon to emerge as a captivating orator, primed for epic debates on destiny's enigmatic crossroads. Destiny Is Debatable, has taken flight and is eager to challenge the very threads of fate. Okay, sorry… That may be a little dramatic, but we are evolving. Ambiguously Blind is now Destiny Is Debatable! And, as you may have heard, I've been working on a writing project for a long, long, looooooong, time. Over the past 18 months, I've been working with a partner to help extract and organize my story and turn it into a high-impact message balanced with my signature sense of humor. Voilà, Destiny Is Debatable is born!   I'm very pleased to announce that we've made tremendous progress. I thought this was the perfect time to bring my partner, the great Garrison Wynn, on the podcast to talk about what we've been up to and let you know where we're headed.   

This year for World Meningitis Day, we pulled together a remarkable collection of people from around the world to raise awareness and share their story to help light the road ahead to defeat meningitis. Turning the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Road Map to Defeat Meningitis by 2030 into reality could save more than 200,000 lives annually and significantly reduce disabilities caused by meningitis. At present, bacterial meningitis kills 1 in 10 people who contract it and causes lifelong disability in 1 in 5 people who survive it. :: For this episode our guests were asked to respond to these questions: How were you affected by meningitis? What do you want people to know about meningitis? What are you doing to spread awareness? :: Our guest are: Bob Werner (Wisconsin, USA) Elena Moya (Madrid, Spain) Rekha Lakshmanan (Texas, USA) Siobhan Carroll (Galway, Ireland) Vinny Smith (Bristol, England) Bruce Langoulant (Perth, Australia) John B Grimes (Texas, USA)   :: PODCAST LINKS ::  SUPPORT THIS PODCAST :: BUY ME A COFFEE!  :: https://ko-fi.com/ambiguouslyblind  GET YOUR OWN DONT WAIT MUG!  :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin    :: EPISODE NOTES AND LINKS ::  Episode participants: Bob Werner (Wisconsin, USA) Becky Werner Meningitis Foundation  :: https://stampoutmeningitis.com/  Elena Moya (Madrid, Spain) Asociación Española contra la Meningitis  :: https://contralameningitis.org/  Rekha Lakshmanan (Texas, USA) The Immunization Partnership  :: https://immunizeusa.org/  Siobhan Carroll (Galway, Ireland) ACT For Meningitis  :: https://actformeningitis.ie/  Vinny Smith (Bristol, England) Meningitis Research Foundation  :: https://www.meningitis.org/  Bruce Langoulant (Perth, Australia) Meningitis Centre Australia  :: https://meningitis.com.au/  John B Grimes (Texas, USA) Confederation of Meningitis Organizations (CoMO)  :: https://www.comomeningitis.org/  :: What is World Meningitis Day? World Meningitis Day was started in 2009 by a community of people affected by meningitis. Today it has grown to be a global movement that brings together people from all over the world. Together they highlight the need to raise awareness of meningitis, its signs and symptoms, the vaccines that are available, and that it is an infection that needs global attention and effort to be defeated. Every year, there are 2.5 million new cases of meningitis. Despite meningitis affecting so many lives, many people don't know enough about it, or how to protect themselves and their loved ones. A lack of knowledge and limited support means it can also be isolating for people looking to rebuild their lives after meningitis. Seeking community is a very human response and one that offers connection, healing and the opportunity for meaningful change. It is out of this need for community that, in 2004, the first world conference of meningitis organizations was held. It led to the creation of the Confederation of Meningitis Organizations (CoMO), the world's first international network of meningitis organizations, with members ranging from healthcare professionals to meningitis survivors to bereaved family members. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has developed a global plan to dramatically improve meningitis prevention, diagnosis and treatment, disease monitoring, health advocacy, support and aftercare. :: The Global Road Map to Defeat Meningitis by 2030 This is a game changer for people at risk of or affected by meningitis. Turning the WHO's Global Road Map to Defeat Meningitis by 2030 into reality could save more than 200,000 lives annually and significantly reduce disabilities caused by meningitis. At present, bacterial meningitis kills 1 in 10 people who contract it and causes lifelong disability in 1 in 5 people who survive it. The Road Map was presented at the World Health Assembly in November 2020, where countries decided to take it forward. They did this by voting on a 'resolution'. The Global Road Map to Defeat Meningitis by 2030 sets out a detailed plan to tackle the main causes of acute bacterial meningitis (including meningococcus, pneumococcus, Haemophilus influenzae and group B streptococcus). The Road Map was developed by WHO with extensive consultation and input from hundreds of global experts, including people directly affected by meningitis, scientists, country representatives, and civil society organizations like Meningitis Research Foundation and the Confederation of Meningitis Organizations.  For more information: Confederation of Meningitis Organizations :: https://www.comomeningitis.org/  Meningitis Research Foundation :: https://www.meningitis.org/     

⚠️ **WARNING** This episode contains gratuitous dad jokes!

The great Jack Chen stops by to share his sight loss story and how a simple podcast episode with Dan Berlin turned into a documentary film and bold social action campaign to fundamentally alter the way that employers think about talent in the blind community. Both blind, Jack and Dan knew that their positions as Assistant General Counsel for Facebook and CEO of a large food company were not aberrations. They set out to prove to the world that people who are blind could be successful both on and off the bike, in the saddle and in the boardroom.   The gripping documentary film, Surpassing Sight, parallels their journey of building a team to tackle the toughest cycling race in the world, RAAM (Race Across America), with their equally grueling journey through the employment world.      GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565    :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  Jack's Guest Profile :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/jack-chen/  Jack's Podcast ExcelAbility :: https://teamexcelability.com/  Surpassing Sight Movie :: https://surpassingsightmovie.com/  ::

The last time we connected with adventurer Jill Wheatley she was in Kathmandu, Nepal preparing to ascend the world's eighth highest mountain, Manaslu. This time, we find Jill in Canada. She stops by to recap her last two years of climbing and tell us what she's up to next. During the discussion, Jill catches John off guard with some well-placed dad jokes. Fun and laughter ensue.   SAVE 20% With Promo Code: ENDOFSUMMER20 Ends 9/14 At This Link: GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  Jill's Guest Profile :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/jill-wheatley/  Jill's First Episode (#39) :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/jill-wheatley/  Mountains Of My Mind Website :: https://mountainsofmymind.com/  :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

John and Erin are joined by Chef Regina and Stan to help tackle the age-old question. What do you want for dinner tonight? After dishing some priceless marriage advice, Regina and Stan talk about how they handle dinner and share some practical ideas to make meals easier for anyone. While Stan admits he's still learning after 38 years of marriage, both he and John find that a timely pizza can save the day.    GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  Regina's Guest Profile :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/regina-mitchell/  More episodes with Erin :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/erin/  --

Aerin, sorry I mean, Erin once again joins John for the fifth installment of the hypothetical question series. While indulging in a bottle of Dreaming Tree, Erin decides to change her name, settles for $1,000 per day for the rest of her life while wearing socks to bed. Fun and laughter ensue. What would you choose?  GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  All Hypothetically Speaking Episode ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/category/hypothetically-speaking/  More episodes with Erin :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/erin/     

Media producer, voiceover artist, public speaker, consultant and longtime philanthropist, Michele Spitz, stops by to have a couple of laughs and discuss her passion of advocating for media accessibility and disability inclusion and awareness. For over 10 years, she has been dedicated to funding audio description and post production accessibility grants to ensure that media content is equally accessible to low-vision and blind audiences. From ballet films to Beatles documentaries and Academy Award Ceremonies, Michele seems to have done it all. Because she believes that art can heal the world, she doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon.      SIGN UP FOR THE DON'T WAIT LIST :: http://www.dontwaitlist.com/  GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  More About Michele :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/michele-spitz/   

Aaron, sorry I mean, Erin once again joins John to pose more humorous hypothetical questions. In a twist, Erin gets herself in trouble when she brings a bottle of wine from Schitz's Creek which earns the distinguished “E” rating for this episode. So, hide your kids and hide your wives as Erin gets food poisoning while John is barefoot in a public bathroom. Fun and laughter ensue. What would you choose? SIGN UP FOR THE DON'T WAIT LIST :: http://www.dontwaitlist.com/  GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  More episodes like this :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/category/qa/  More episodes with Erin :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/erin/   

Amazingly, Erin is back with another round of hypothetical questions for John. Although there are no “scandalous” questions this time, things get weird as John is topless, allergic to elderly people and on the top bunk by the end of the episode. But, fun and laughter still ensue. What would you choose?    SIGN UP FOR THE DON'T WAIT LIST :: http://www.dontwaitlist.com/  GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/listing/destiny-dont-wait-black?product=1565  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS ::  Becky Werner Meningitis Foundation :: https://stampoutmeningitis.com/beckys-story/    More episodes with Erin :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/erin/   

Sheryl Ellis, a Certified Professional in Human Resources and a recognized expert in Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) stops by to discuss how she helps employees and employers understand how to apply the ADA to a workplace accommodation situation and how employees can research, request, and negotiate an accommodation with their employer while successfully managing their health condition and being productive employees. In addition to attending the same high school and college, although a couple of years apart, John and Sheryl discuss their shared but different experience with meningitis while attending Texas Tech University.   GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest bio & social links: Sheryl Ellis ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/sheryl-ellis/ Augmented HR Services :: https://aughrs.com/

After an exciting & somewhat cryptic podcast and book update, Erin is back with another round of hypothetical questions for John that force them to choose the better of two bad options. Things get tense when Erin poses a “scandalous” question and is shocked with John's answer. After determining John was kidding, fun and laughter ensue. What would you choose?   GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  SIGN UP FOR THE MAILING LIST :: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Becky Werner Meningitis Foundation :: https://stampoutmeningitis.com/beckys-story/   

Dylan Rafaty's personal mission is to increase opportunities by opening new doors so that everyone can have an overall better quality of life. He stops by to share his unique personal journey, being born with both significant hearing loss and early struggles with eating. Dylan's formative school years weren't much help. So, he learned to self-advocate and took matters into his own hands. Then wrote Occupy Special Education, Children Should be Seen and Heard, a book that chronicles his experience and helps school districts and educators better understand how to ensure students with special needs succeed. After countless volunteer and entrepreneurial ventures, Dylan will be starting the Doctor of Education program at the University of Southern California in a couple of months.   GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest bio & social links: Dylan Rafaty ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/dylan-rafaty/ DylanRafaty.com :: https://dylanrafaty.com/  

Morten Bonde returns to talk about life after publishing his book, Sentenced to Blindness, Now What, which chronicles his journey from hopelessness to possibility and liberation from sight loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa.  Since leaving his career at the Lego Group, Morten has become a meditation teacher, mindfulness instructor and TEDx speaker with an ambition to captivate, influence and motivate people to take back control and become the master of their own life. Morten talks about the course he created, Inner Peace in Outer Chaos and how mindfulness enables people to develop an awareness of their breath, their body, their thoughts, and their surroundings to anchor themself in the present moment, focusing on what is happening right now, rather than getting caught up in thoughts about the future or the past.    GET YOUR #DONTWAIT MUG! :: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest bio & social links: Morten Bonde ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/morten-bonde/ Inner Peace in Outer Chaos :: http://www.innerpeaceinouterchaos.com/ MortenBonde.com :: http://www.mortenbonde.com/  Morten's TEDx :: https://youtu.be/LFkrPRZFRXg   

Current Ms. Wheelchair America, Ali Ingersoll, stops by to share her personal journey as a C6 Complete Quadriplegic that began with a shallow water diving accident. Ali's captivating personality, relentless drive and belief in paying it forward, are all on display as she shares about the work she does for the disability community and inclusion for all humans in the corporate world as well as the basic rights she tirelessly fights for daily with health insurance providers. Ali sheds light on taboo topics with her unique style of dark humor and along with John shares a desire to bring her message to a TED Talk stage.    Get your #DontWait Merch: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest bio & social links: Ali Ingersoll ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/ali-ingersoll/ Unblinded Link: https://fb.watch/jI8VUPxgkh/  

Vice President of Marketing, Stephanie Jones, stops by to talk about how the Menus4ALL app puts over 850,000 accessible restaurant menus in the palm of your hand. She then takes John for a test drive with the app to demonstrate the ease of use and empowerment it provides as well as a great Memphis BBQ restaurant. Stephanie also shares her unique story of sight loss due to a condition called Pseudotumor Cerebri and discovers a striking similarity to the cause of John's sight loss. As a Braille instructor, Stephanie gives John his first lesson and underscores the importance of Braille and how it works with technology.   Get your #DontWait Merch: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest bio & social links: Stephanie Jones ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/stephanie-jones/ Menus4ALL :: https://www.menus4all.com/   

Mary Mammoliti, host of the Kitchen Confession Podcast and the Dish with Mary TV Show, stops by to share her personal journey with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and how she confronted her imposter syndrome, stopped saying sorry and started finding ability in her disability and smiling all the time. Mary found that spending time in the kitchen was therapeutic and launched Mary 2.0 and the podcast and TV show to work with sighted chefs and share adaptive cooking tools and techniques. Mary also answers some hard-hitting questions from John while gracefully deflecting ridiculous Canadian language jokes.  Get your #DontWait Merch: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest bio & social links: Mary Mammoliti ::  https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/mary-mammoliti/   Kitchen Confession Podcast :: https://www.kitchenconfession.com/   

“Marketing publicist”, podcaster and advocate, Lis Malone stops by to share her personal journey with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and how she developed a #DontWait mindset to move forward through the uncertainty of her diagnosis and future. Lis and John compare notes on brushes with danger and reflect on the tough decision to surrender their driver's licenses, and its underlying impact on one's psyche. She also talks about the good time she has as the lone female and American voice on the long-running AT Banter Podcast. Lis, a New Jersey Devils enthusiast, makes a side bet for this year's Stanley Cup playoffs and manages to get John to speak a distinct four-letter word just after the puck drops, earning the distinguished “E” rating for this banter-filled episode. As a professional marketer and publicist for authors and their books, Lis has worked with many authors including New York Times Best Selling Authors, Steven Hartov and Jerome Preisler, both of whom she mentions in this discussion. Get your #DontWait Merch: https://amblind.creator-spring.com/  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee  Visit LisMalone.com  This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest details: Lis Malone: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/lis-malone/ John Grimes AT Banter Episode: https://atbanter.com/2023/03/15/at-banter-episode-327-john-grimes/ 

Co-host of the AT Banter Podcast, Ryan Fleury, stops to share the story of how his sight was abruptly lost in an accident and the new found direction his life took thereafter. Ryan and John discuss assistive technology and how AI and Chat GPT,  will be a game changing technology for the blind a visually impaired. A musician on the side, Ryan shares a song he wrote that was turned into an audio described music video.  :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest details: Ryan Fleury: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/ryan-fleury/ AT Banter Podcast Website: https://atbanter.com/  White Cane Records: https://www.whitecanerecords.com/  John Grimes AT Banter Episode: https://atbanter.com/2023/03/15/at-banter-episode-327-john-grimes/ 

Patti Wukovits and Alicia Stillman, two mothers who each lost their young, healthy daughters too soon to a now vaccine-preventable disease, Meningitis B (known as MenB). High school senior Kimberly (Patti's daughter), 17, died one week before her graduation. College sophomore Emily (Alicia's daughter), 19, died just 36 hours after her first symptoms. Both Kimberly and Emily had received the MenACWY vaccine, the MenB vaccine was not yet available to help protect them from MenB.   In 2014, to educate the public about meningococcal meningitis and MenB vaccination, Patti and Alicia each established their own foundations named after their daughters. Both mothers have since joined forces under the Meningitis B Action Project to make sure other parents don't needlessly suffer the same fate.   The objective of the Meningitis B Action Project is to: Empower young adults (and their parents) with information to talk to their healthcare provider about Meningitis B and the vaccine that can help prevent it. Encourage healthcare providers to discuss Meningitis B and the MenB vaccine with their patients. Increase awareness of Meningitis B on high school, college and university campuses Engage policymakers to ensure broader access to the MenB vaccine. :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest details:  Patti Wukovits: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/patti-wukovits/ Alicia Stillman: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/alicia-stillman/ Meningitis B Action Project: https://meningitisbactionproject.org/  The Kimberly Coffey Foundation: https://www.kimberlycoffeyfoundation.org/  The Emily Stillman Foundation: https://www.foreveremily.org/   

Founder and President of the Together Achieving Dreams (TAD) Foundation, Kathryn Webster, stops by to share her unbelievably unique sight loss journey and the humbling moment she became comfortable with herself. Kathryn explains TAD Foundation's three pronged approach to increasing employment in corporate America for the blind and low vision community by bridging the gap between potential and possibility.    :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest details: Kathryn Webster: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/kathryn-webster/ TAD Foundation Website: https://tadfoundation.org/  Chad Foster and Blind Ambition: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/chad-e-foster-and-blind-ambition/   

Director of Strategic Partnerships, Billy Parker, stops by to explain how NSITE is a one-stop-shop for blindness employment. A spinoff of the National Industries for the Blind (NIB), NSITE works with employers to identify potential candidates who are blind, visually impaired, and/or veterans. From there, NSITE assists with accessibility needs, onboarding, and training, then prepares both parties for job placement. Their work does not end there; it continues with ongoing support to accommodate changes in accessible technology and employer requirements.  Billy and John also discuss how remote work opportunities have been a game-changing element to today's workforce and how accessible technology benefits everyone.   :: PODCAST LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: EPISODE LINKS :: Guest details: Billy Parker: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/billy-parker/ NSITE Website: https://nsite.org/  Blind Grilling Experience Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blind-grilling-experience/id1515334158  Flame Boss Website: https://www.flameboss.com/   

James Warnken stops by to share about his journey with progressive vision loss due to the rare eye disease, Genetic Retinal Dystrophy, which typically leads to blindness. He discusses some of the challenges he faced during his unconventional path through school and how the challenges taught him to self-advocate and solve his own problems, usually with technology. James also talks about his passion for online accessibility and what he and his colleagues are doing to make the internet a better experience for all users.   :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: GUEST LINKS :: More details: James Warnken: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/james-warnken/ James' website: https://www.jameswarnken.com/   

During a performance in summer 2020, Mark Erelli looked down at his guitar neck and couldn't believe what he saw. Or rather, what he couldn't see: his fingers on the frets. Soon after, a diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) would bring some answers, but it also yielded new questions. Does diminished eyesight correlate with lesser insight? Does your songwriting change when your perception of the world around you changes? These questions, and Erelli's hunt for creative agency, are at the heart of his new album Lay Your Darkness Down.  Mark stops by to share a bit about his early RP journey and talk to John about his new album. Although his 13th solo record, Mark explains why Lay Your Darkness Down is the first record he felt like he needed to make in this new season of life. Mark and John discuss lyrical comprehension, Mark's musical influences and play snippets from Marks new record.    :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  :: GUEST LINKS :: More details: Mark Erelli: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/mark-erelli/ Mark's website: https://www.markerelli.com/  Mark's music on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3lthisC   

Fellow survivor, Samantha Bennett, stops by to share her meningitis experience that begins as a 10-month-old baby and how the fast action of her family and an ER doctor helped her beat the odds. She recalls the countless months spent in the hospital as a child enduring reconstructive surgeries and how she turned to art to express herself. Embracing her scars and her story, Sam connected with the National Meningitis Association (NMA) and the Confederation of Meningitis Organizations (CoMO) and has been an influential advocate for awareness, education, and legislation for over 10 years. Sam talks about her career as an artist and the special role butterflies play. :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community  John Bramblitt's Episode: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/john-bramblitt/  :: GUEST LINKS :: More details: Samantha Bennett: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/samantha-bennett/  Sam's website: https://www.paintersam.com/  Sam's meningitis story for CoMO: https://www.comomeningitis.org/sams-s-story   

The great Neva Fairchild stops by to share her unique sight loss story with Cone Rod Degeneration (a form of Retinitis Pigmentosa) and how she was set on a path to success by her parents. Neva recalls her time at Esther's Place during her early days with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) and her infamous encounter with John and the Motorola Q. Neva discusses her current AFB role coordinating the Blind Leaders Development Program which aims to increase successful employment outcomes, upward mobility, and leadership attainment of blind and visually impaired individuals.   :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community :: GUEST LINKS :: Book: The Leadership Challenge by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner  AFB Blind Leaders Development Program   Connect with Neva Fairchild: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/neva-fairchild/

Founder and CEO, Lukas Simianer, stops by to illuminate some staggering employment statistics of the blind and visually impaired community. He shares the origin story of Clusiv, the world's first e-learning platform built for and by the blind and their mission to remove barriers to employment and to reduce the net amount of suffering in the world. :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community :: GUEST LINKS :: Clusiv.io Connect with Lukas Simianer : https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/lukas-simianer/

Kirk Adams stops by to share his sight loss story and journey learning to advocate for himself and how his work with the Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind lead him to the CEO position at The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB). Kirk talks about the AFB's history and his time with the organization and the role AFB Consulting plays in the development of accessible technology including VoiceOver on the iPhone. Now, Kirk is self-employed, with Innovative Impact LLC. He's looking for fun high impact innovative projects that accelerate inclusion of blind people in the work force.   :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community :: GUEST LINKS :: Connect with Kirk Adams: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/kirk-adams/

Entrepreneur and founder of Jack From Brooklyn, Jackie Summers shares how a health scare caused him to reevaluate his priorities, create a liqueur company, and build his own table. While creating Sorel, a modern twist on a 500-year-old Caribbean classic, he became America's first black legal distiller and filled his team with diversity and inclusion in mind. With the help of Dr Hoby Wedler, Sorel is found in over 20 states in the US and is available to ship from sorelofficial.com. Whether you enjoy Sorel hot, cold, or in a cocktail, Cheers! A 500 Year Journey Born of the spice trade, versions of sorrel date back to the 1600s, when hibiscus flowers were first imported to the New World from West Africa and hibiscus-based beverages became a Caribbean tradition. Made with Moroccan hibiscus blended with Brazilian clove, Indonesian cassia and Nigerian ginger, this bright red liqueur from Brooklyn is a modern twist on a timeless classic.   :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community :: GUEST LINKS :: Connect with Jackie: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/jackie-summers/ SOREL: https://sorelofficial.com/ 

John and Erin welcome back long-time compadres, Chris and Heidi Elder all the way from Germany, for some season's eatings and Alton Brown's version of aged eggnog. As homemade eggnog experts, Chris and Heidi discuss the simple recipe and their traditions. Not much into dairy, John gets distracted by one of the ingredients, Courvoisier, and resurrects a “high-society” cocktail, the Stinger, which was made famous by Reginald Vanderbilt a century ago. The couples also critique some over-played and bad Christmas songs as well as a Texas folk favorite. :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of supporters. ALTON BROWN'S AGED EGGNOG INGREDIENTS: 12 large eggs, pasteurized if you need peace of mind 1 pound sugar 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1 pint half-and-half 1 pint whole milk 1 pint heavy cream 1 cup Jamaican rum 1 cup cognac 1 cup bourbon 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt ACTIVE TIME: 15 minutes TOTAL TIME: 14 days & 15 minutes YIELD: 8 TO 10 Servings PROCEDURE Separate the eggs and store the whites for another application. Beat the yolks with the sugar and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl until the mixture lightens in color and falls off the whisk in a solid ribbon. Combine dairy, booze, and salt in a second bowl or pitcher and then slowly beat into the egg mixture. Move to a large glass jar (or a couple of smaller ones) and store in the fridge for a minimum of 2 weeks. A month would be better, and 2 better still. In fact, there's nothing that says you couldn't age it a year, but I've just never been able to wait that long. And yes, you can also drink it right away. Serve in mugs or cups topped with a little extra nutmeg grated on top.   STINGER COCTAIL INGREDIENTS: 2 ounces cognac 1 ounce white creme de menthe PROCEDURE: Add the cognac and white crème de menthe into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled Strain into a rocks glass over crushed ice MUSIC Last Christmas – Wham! Same Old Lang Syne – Dan Folgelberg Merry Christmas From the Family – Robert Earl Keen, Jr

While on a family road trip, Regina Mitchell noticed a pain in her eye that changed from slight to excruciating within a few days. After a long medical journey she was diagnosed with Bilateral Panuveitis and began losing her sight rapidly. Regina stops by to share her sight loss story and how she adapted her lifestyle and career as a classically trained chef and began working intuitively in the kitchen. Not only a conqueror but a converter, Regina is using her skills as a chef to teach livestream cooking classes to blind and low vision individuals to gain confidence and independence in their kitchen.    :: SHOW LINKS :: Connect with Regina: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/regina-mitchell/  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin  Like what we're doing? Support us: Buy Me A Coffee This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of :: GUEST LINKS :: ChefRegina.com: http://chefregina.com 

Professionally Marissa Nehlsen is a coach, speaker, and CEO of a 7-figure financial firm. Personally, she is a sister, mother, and grandmother with an extraordinary journey from a trailer court to financial freedom with plenty of challenges along the way. Marissa stops by to share her unique Stargardts sight loss story, the sage wisdom from her mother to be victorious rather than a victim and the importance of the support from her brother, Matt, to rise up and keep moving. And, as host of the Live Life Rich Podcast, Marissa teaches others to thrive spiritually, emotionally, relationally, physically and financially and how to think bigger and live life richer than ever before. :: SHOW LINKS :: Connect with Marissa: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/marissa-nehlsen/  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of :: GUEST LINKS :: Live Life Rich Podcast: https://marissanehlsen.com/podcast   

Born with the rare condition, Microphthalmia, Dr. Hoby Wedler has been totally blind since birth and is remarkably tuned into his surroundings and has frequently chosen to walk the unbeaten paths in life. Among many things Hoby is a chemist, food scientist, sensory awareness expert, entrepreneur and lives with an abundance mindset. He stops by to share his sight loss story and how a wholesome upbringing shaped his work ethic and lead him to the realization that food and flavor are his visual art form. Hoby also talks about his work with Jackie Summers, the first legal black distiller in the U.S. and founder of Sorel, the most awarded liqueur of 2022. Earlier this year, Jackie tapped Hoby to help scale the production of Sorel while maintaining quality and improving the formula. By combining his heightened senses with his knowledge of organic chemistry, Hoby is using his unique perspective to maximize Sorel's sensory experience, from brightening its signature ruby red hue, to enhancing each individual flavor and ingredient. While discussing their shared love of music and sound, Hoby shares an incredible story of pairing wine and music from the Dave Matthews Band  in a truly unique version of Tasting In the Dark.   :: SHOW LINKS :: Connect with Hoby: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/hoby-wedler/  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of :: GUEST LINKS :: Sorel: https://sorelofficial.com/  Hoby: https://www.hoby.com/ 

As a photographer well into her professional career, Robyn Rachel sensed something was changing in her body. After a routine eye exam, she was referred to a specialist and diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and Usher's Syndrome (Usher's 2A). Robyn decided it was time to pivot from weddings to see the world while she could. Now, as the Silver Lining Explorer, Robyn lives fully, travels often and explores always! She and her family travel the globe in search of incredible experiences while capturing stunning images to document and share her story. :: SHOW LINKS :: For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of :: GEUST LINKS :: Connect withRobyn at: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/robyn-rachel-lindema/  Robyn's Websites  Silver Lining Explorer: http://silverliningexplorer.com  Photography: http://robynrachelphotography.com/   

Matt Philipenko returns to expand on the assistive devices and software that makes his world go ‘round. As a Microsoft Office Ranger, Matt is passionate about Windows and Office accessibility. Matt takes John for a tour of new and improved Magnifier and Narrator features as well as some of the new natural voices.  Previous Episode: Rise Up with Matt Philipenko Connect with Matt at: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/matt-philipenko/  Assistive Devices Discussed  Binoculars: https://amzn.to/3ghXCWp  Ruby 7 HD: https://www.palmervision.com/product/ruby-7-hd-ruby-xl-hd/  IrisVision VR: https://www.palmervision.com/product/iris-vision/  Clover Book Pro: https://www.palmervision.com/product/clover-book-pro/  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast. Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of listeners. 

As a senior at the University of Kansas, Andy Marso was not aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis. Because of the fast action of his friend and local doctors Andy miraculously survived to tell the tale in his book, Worth the Pain: How Meningitis Nearly Killed Me - Then Changed My Life for the Better. Almost two decades later, Andy lives with the permanent physical effects of his battle with meningitis. He stops by to share his incredible story, similarities with John's experience and how he lives with a deep understanding that we are entitled to nothing but can accomplish anything. Connect with Andy at: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/andy-marso/  Andy's Book > https://amzn.to/3rfUhct  October 5th is World Meningitis Day. Every year, it brings together people from all over the world to highlight the need to raise awareness of meningitis, its signs and symptoms, the vaccines that are available, and that it is an infection that needs global attention and effort to be defeated.  Learn more > CoMO https://www.comomeningitis.org/  Follow #DefeatMeningitis  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of  

Producer and host of Reid My Mind Radio, Thomas Reid, stops by to share his journey that started as an infant with a rare form of cancer, retinoblastoma, that eventually took both of his eyes and how life began anew in 2004. Thomas explains what he does to make blindness sound funky and shares some girl dad advise with John. As a pioneer in the new ear of audio description, Thomas talks about the art and creative side of AD and opines on the importance of including the blind and visually impaired community in the process. Connect with Thomas at: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/thomas-reid/  Will Thomas read your mind? Check out this episode to find out. Young Gifted Black & Disabled - The Price of Blind Girl Magic ( https://reidmymindradio.libsyn.com/young-gifted-black-disabled-the-price-of-blind-girl-magic ) Audio Description Network Alliance > https://theadna.org/  Disability Podcasts Survey > https://bit.ly/PODAccess  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of  

As a teenager in South Australia, Bethany Cody, only experienced minor and somewhat random signs of a visual impairment. During her driver training she was concerned about driving at night. After consulting with an optometrist, she was referred to a specialist and diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa and a carrier of the USH2A  (Usher's Syndrome) gene. Bethany stops by to share her often lonely journey with RP and answer some of John's crazy questions about life  and music down under.    Connect with Bethany at: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/bethany-cody/  For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of  

For more than 10 years Ren Leach has provided broadcast-quality Voice Over recordings for countless TV and radio commercials and video productions. In the last six months he has directed his voice efforts to Audio Description. Ren stops by to talk about Audio Description and the importance of quality in the consumer's experience. Ren shares examples of his work with Netflix's, See For Me, and HBO's, Andre The Giant documentary. Connect with Ren at: https://www.ambiguouslyblind.com/guests/ren-leach/  RenLeach.com For show notes, guest profiles, photos, blog and more information, visit AmbiguouslyBlind.com and connect on:    Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin This is a listener supported podcast.  Please consider donating to build and sustain our community of