The Blind American

For those of you who are visually impaired at all, you will find this frequent question from sighted individuals to be a tricky one..."What do you see?". Perhaps the most difficult question that I am asked on a regular basis. In this episode, we discuss why that may be, as well as having an internal locus of control and poking fun at those who say life is over if they could not see.If you want to support, like us on Facebook @theblindamerican and use this link here to get your first month of Audible for free:  https://amzn.to/3ckcgKQ Cheers  

In this episode, I decided to piggy back off of the last one, where I copied the idea from a YouTube series. In this episode, the theme that I copied was how athletes spent their first million dollars after signing their big contracts.Take this with a grain of salt, as this is how I will spend my first million and not how I already have spent it.  Either way, I thought this was fun and another way for you guys to see into my personal life and thoughts.  If you like the episode, make sure to share, and like us on Facebook @theblindamerican Likewise, to support the podcast, you can use this link to sign up for Audible and receive your first month for free:   https://amzn.to/3ckcgKQ  

In this episode, I decided to mirror an idea from a YouTube series, in which I have been watching, where athletes are interviewed and asked what their 10 essential items are.  Common answers were things like water bottle, gloves, air pods etc...I thought it would be fun to do the top 10 essential items that I , The Blind American must have in this episode.I hope you guys enjoy this and would love to hear what your 10 essential items are in the comments.  Please share, like and comment, as well as follow us on Facebook @theblindamerican If you are interested in trying out Audible, here is the link that you guys can use to sign up and get one month for free!  https://amzn.to/3ckcgKQ   

Hope everyone is well.  I wanted to discuss how you can know if you are on the right path in life...here's a hint, it's called synchronicity's.  Had fun on this one, and hope you will enjoyTo support us, make sure to go to Facebook and follow @theblindamerican to stay up to date with all new content.  If you are interested in signing up for your free month of Audible + here is the link:  https://amzn.to/3ckcgKQ  Like, share and let us know what you would like to hear next!

In honor of disability pride month I thought it would be cool to start doing things differently around here.  I fell in love with podcasting but I never felt like I was being my authentic self...So, in this episode, I thought I would let it fly.  This is a change of pace from the typical professional style that I do and is more free flowing, which shows my personality and let's me have fun.  I still am going to talk about a lot of things that. are relevant in the blind community but FYI, the podcast is about to change drastically.  I am unsure about how different it will be but I am going to be more expressive and will fine tune the direction as I go.Like us on Facebook as always @theblindamerican  and make sure to like, comment, share and join the party!!! 

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks reviews the digital talking thermometer by Reizen.This is a meat thermometer, that the visually impaired can use while they are cooking, in order to determine the doneness of their meats.  The thermometer reads the temperature aloud and is very easy to use while being affordable.you can buy the thermometer at the link below, as well as shop tons of other items for your independent living needs with Maxiaids https://www.maxiaids.com/talking-digital-cooking-thermometer?gclid=Cj0KCQjwsdiTBhD5ARIsAIpW8CLmyUf450p8fqnQA5PZtRyl4AG4alTZLNOptctweed3ggryPRp4BV8aAjT0EALw_wcB#nav-contentLet us know what you think and if you have any ideas for podcasts or discussions for the future!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses where he has been.  The last podcast that was posted was on December 13th.  Alex has been dealing with a lot of stress, anxiety and even panic attacks.  In this podcast, he talks about his struggles, the statistics around mental health for the visually impaired and how to stay positive.  If you are experieincing mental health problems, you are not alone.  Please seek help and if it is an emergency call 911.Let us know what you think online and in the comments.  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Travis Freeman who is known for being the first blind high school football player.  There was even a movie made inspired by him, called 23 blast.  Travis also has a book that is called "Lights out.  If interested, you can get a signed book by Travis by messaging him on Twitter @tfreeman63 or emailing info@travisfreeman.orgTravis has always been a christian and claims that as being his point of hope.  As a devout christian, Travis also has a PHD in preaching and teaches at the University of the Cumberlands here in KY.Make sure you check us out on Facebook @theblindamerican and leave a review for the chance to win a $25 gift card to Amazon.com. Just use the #2022

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks tells a funny story of an awkward but hilarious interaction that he had with a convenient store clerk on campus last week.  Think we are going to do more of these funny stories going forward.....Like us on Facebook @theblindamerican and give a review with the #2022 for the chance to win a $25 gift card to Amazon

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks about why this podcast is called The Blind American......oddly enough, Alex says that the name just came to him one day in some sort of epiphany.  Either way, he talks about the similarities between what the podcast represents and what the American Dream is supposed to represent.  Check us out on Facebook @theblindamerican and leave a review there, or wherever you listen to the podcast with the #2022 for a chance to win a $25 gift card from Amazon.

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks about the idea of spoon theory.  Which originated within the Auto immune community.  The idea is that each day, we only have so much energy, which can be represented by spoons, and each activity takes spoons away from us.  Sometimes, activities may take away several spoons at a time but we still have half of the day left.  So, the idea is to understand how many spoons you have, don't use all of them and don't use more than you have.The reason it is called spoon theory is because the lady who popularized it was eating dinner at a restaurant and used spoons to describe how she only has so much energy each day.  For us visually impaired, it often takes longer to achieve mundane task, therefore depleting our spoons.  We believe that analyzing this theory is helpful for maximizing your day to day sense of well being.  Hope you guys enjoy this, and don't forget to leave us a review on Facebook or wherever you stream the podcast with the #2022 for the chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card.   

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Alyssa Minwell, who is completely blind due to optic nerve damage from brain cancer.  Alyssa and Alex worked together this past summer at Dell technologies since Alyssa is a mentor through the True  ability program at Dell.  For those who don't know many large organizations like Dell have DNI initiatives and often have employee resource groups for individuals who have disabilities, are African American, LGBTQ and so on.  The point is, that they align you with a mentor who can help be like your coach and right hand man while you work there.  Alyssa and Alex discussed some of the common frustrations of being blind like social aspects, making friends, and what they think could make for a better experience in society.  Alyssa works with the accessibility department at Dell after a series of run ins that she had with some of the platforms in her first  role there, which was in sales.  Guys, if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review on Facebook, or wherever you find the podcast with the hashtag 2022 for the chance to receive a $25 Amazon gift card.  

Guys, thank you so much for listening and supporting the podcast!  We reached 2,000 downloads finally and have exciting things coming in 2022.In celebration, we are giving away a $25 gift card to a randomly selected listener at the beginning of the year.  In order to be eligible you need to leave a review, either on Facebook, Apple podcasts or Spotify with the hashtag 2022 at the end.  We will randomly select somebody to receive the gift card at the start of the new year.Thanks again to everyone!  #2022

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks about how he had to use his knowledge of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to defend himself in a real world altercation again over this past week.  He also goes into a separate time, a few years ago where he had to defend himself against another person and used Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to maintain the situation and avoid from getting injured.  Guys, the bottom line is that most of the time, we will never be involved in situations like these, however, sometimes it is inevitable.  Jiu Jitsu teaches you how to defend yourself, how to stay calm in these situations and provides a host of other great benefits including confidence, wisdom and appreciation for discipline.  If you have enjoyed this story, let us know by giving a review on which ever platform is your choice to stream on.  Also, give us a like and a share on Facebook @theblindamerican 

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with a few women who were actors in a play called "Flying Blind".  The play was put on by the Anything Is Possible Theatre in Seattle Washington and is available on their website for viewership at anythingispossibletheatre.org  The play talks about key concepts that people may not know about individuals who live with blindness.  The play was simply created to spread awareness in a creative way and is a great listen, especially if you love plays.   In addition to talking about the play, we discussed random everyday things that we had in common living with visual impairments in a round table style discussion.  This was such a fun podcast and we hope that you will enjoy the play and podcast together!  Like us on Facebook @theblindamerican and share, comment and leave a review!

Okay guys, in this episode, the host Alex Sparks wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, and brought forth a few things that he is thankful for despite or because of his vision loss.  We would love to hear what you guys are thankful for considering your condition and hope that you have enjoyed the holiday!Make sure to check us out on Facebook @theblindamerican and let us know in the comments what you are thankful for!!!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Jason Keaton, who is a black belt in the martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  He teaches this martial art full time in Georgia and even taught the self defense art to the military for 16 years.  Jason is legally blind yet finds his way on to the mat every week to train the art that he loves.  He also competed in mixed martial arts fights in his past and enjoys being active.  This was a particularly enjoyable podcast since Alex actually had trained with Jason in the past and trained Jiu Jitsu himself for a couple of years.  We hope you guys are inspired by this podcast, as it shows that just because you are visually impaired..... that does not mean you can't defend yourself in situations and gain all of the incredible benefits from training a martial art like Brazilian Jiu JitsuMake sure you guys like us on Facebook @theblindamerican comment, share, and let us know if you have ever tried training BJJ before or if you have any questions.  Also, Jason and his gym are located in Columbus Georgia for those of you in that area who are interested in training.  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks walks you through what going to the movie as a visually impaired individual is like.  We use what is known as audio description..... simply  put, audio description is a narration of what is happening on screen.  This episode highlights a few tips and gives an honest review of Alex's experience at his first audio descriptive moviePlease like us on Facebook @theblindamerican and share with a loved one.  We would also like to know what your thoughts are on audio description and what your experiences have been like.  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Mike "The Maniac". Tubiak, who is a fellow podcaster and YouTuber.  Mike enjoys his physical fitness as many of us do and we geeked out on all sorts of things during this podcast.  We hope that you enjoy it as much as we did.  Links to both YouTube and podcast are below.The RP show:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiMvdarMVRa-5qYK8ApcfNA  Living free with RP: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/living-free-with-rp/id1494219256  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Geri Taeckens, who has published her own book called "Blind Man's Bluff!"  She also has written several of her own songs and been apart of a play called Flying Blind.  You can find the play on the following website:  anythingispossible.org.  If you are interested in reading Geri's book, which details her road to accepting the difficulties of losing vision, you can download soon on BARD or any other libraries for the blind using the following code:  DBC15898  or email her at divinediscoveriesafp@gmail.com to purchase a copy for just $20.Stay tuned for the full length of the episode for a special surprise at the end.....Here's a hint, it's in the title of this episode.remember to like us on Facebook, share, comment and until next time, keep rocking!   

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Mike Hess....who is the founder and executive director for The Blind Institute of Technology.  BIT for short, is dedicated to finding meaningful employment for individuals with visual impairments, since there is an unemployment epedemic among our community.  Mike started the organization after years of being the token blind guy in his tech career.If you are interested in learning more about the organization, and are in need of more meaningful career opportunities, check out their website at : https://blindinstituteoftechnology.org/  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks has a discussion with Michael Patellis, who is the VP of corporate engagement for the Blind Institute of Technology.  Otherwise known as BIT, this non-profit is dedicated to securing meaningful jobs for low vision individuals.  Considering that the unemployment and underemployment rates for the visiually impaired are above 70% it is incredible to see BIT candidates landing jobs on average that generate $70,000-$80,000 per year.The institute also provides executive leadership training and is an incredible resource for The Blind AMerican followers to take advantage of.  Michael himself, was suddenly subjected to vision loss through a rare DNA disease, thus causing him to go from perfect vision to legally blind in a few short months.  This has never stopped Michael from achieving executive business positions and starting a family of his own.  His story is truly inspirational and is a reminder that we can do anything that we set our minds to.If you would like to contact Michael, you can reach him at his email:  michael.patellis@blindit.org and you can check out their website through the link below.https://blindinstituteoftechnology.org/

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses the powerful screen reader from Apple, known as voice Over.  Voice over allows visually impaired Apple user's to interact with their devices in a way that reads everything on the screen.  This episode is a brief intro, showcasing the basic features of how to use voice over, both on IOS and on Mac.  If you are officially legally blind, we highly suggest that you take a look at voice over and other screen readers.  They will make your life so much easier and is another great tool for the tool box!Like us on Facebook for more updates on the podcast and let us know where you want to receive a $25 gift card from?  We will be giving away a gift card to a randomly selected follower in the next few weeks....

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses the idea of learning curves.  It is important to highlight that whenever we as visually impaired individuals begin to start something new, there typically will be a significant learning curve.  We wanted to emphasize this for our newly diagnosed listeners, or for the individuals who are not effected but either work with somebody or have a loved one who is.  The bottom line is, keep this in mind because sometimes, at the beginning it is the hardest.  Don't compare yourself to others and if you want it bad enough, you will get it!  Like us on Facebook @theblindamerican for updates on our newest episodes and let us know what kind of gift cards you would be interested in.  Giving away $25 gift card for hitting 1,000 total downloads

Yes, we have done it.....The Blind American has reached 1,000 downloads in total.  To celebrate, we are giving away a $25 gift card to a place of your choosing.  Let us know on Facebook, @theblindamerican  where you would like to receive a gift card and we will start a raffle.  The take away here is, keep working and you will see results eventually.  When you find those results in front of you, give yourself a pat on the back and keep going!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks about the importance of taking breaks and achieving balance.  At the blind american, we believe that taking breaks is actually necessary for well being and productivity.  There are many pros to taking breaks, so long as you don't end up stopping and are able to get back to work.Make sure you follow us on Facebook @theblindamerican  and let us know what you think.  Also, we are wanting to know what kind of gift card you guys want when we hit 1,000 downloads.  Make sure to let us know!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Kaley Outlaw, who actually went to the same college as him.  Kaly is legally blind due to a unique type of albinism.  She is a college graduate with a degree in communications and was an honor student through her time at Eastern Kentucky University.  Like a lot of us, Kaley has had her moments with anxiety and depression, a common occurance for individuals with visual disabilities.  The two spoke very honestly about mental health, as it does affect visually impaired individuals at a higher rate than individuals who can see.  This however, was not the only point of discussion, we were able to see into her personality and the things that she enjoys doing as well as hearing her road to acceptance.We hope that this podcast will bring you awareness and inspiration, as Kaley exudes the true embodiment of self advocacy.Make sure to check us out on Facebook @theblindamerican like, share and give us a review if you enjoy the episode!  Also, stay tuned for our give away that will be coming once we hit 1,000 downloads!  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Susan Tanner, who has a rare genetic disease.  This disease impacts her vision as well as her kidneys.  Susan has an incredible story of beating lung cancer, overcoming life with blindness and many other constant uphill battles but yet, she maintains positivity and lives life to the fullest.  Susan is very involved with several organizations such as NFB and even has her own art business, which you can check out below!Dont' forget to like us on Facebook,share and join the community...Stay tuned as we will be keeping the episodes coming and having a special give away in the near future!!!!If you want to support Susan, check out her Facebook business @DrawnByHeartOriginals-Art

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses several random things that happen when you are experiencing vision loss.  There are a lot of grey area when it comes to loosing your vision and doctors may not be either aware or understand how to communicate these sorts of things to newly diagnosed patients.  Let us know what your thoughts are on Facebook @theblindamerican and please share if you relate or learned something.

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses the app "Seeing AI".  Just as it sounds, the app uses AI or artificial intelligence in cooperation with access to your phone camera in order to provide several services.  This app can read something aloud to you, tell you what color something is, read currency, and our personal favorite, scan a bar code and tell you what it is.  This is one of our favorite apps that we use on a daily basis and is a great tool to add to your tool kit.  Please share this if you enjoyed and let us know on Facebook @theblindamerican what your thoughts are on the app!  Stay tuned for more app reviews and recommendations coming soon!

There has never been a better time to be blind, visually impaired or newly diagnosed with vision loss than right now....The host Alex Sparks brings up the idea that, with all of the technology, scientific research and cultural appropriation, that right now is the best time that there has ever been to be visually impaired.  Hundreds of years ago, there were no computers, jobs that were accommodating or any scientific research that was going on for blindness.  We need to understand this and be grateful for the amazing times that we live in.  Be on the lookout for the next few episodes, as they will all include resources that will help to give you independence if you are visually impaired.  We like to think of this concept of a toolbox or tool belt, and it's all about getting access to more tools.  Please like, rate, review and share this episode if it impacts you in any way.  Also, don't forget to follow and like the Facebook page @theblindamerican which is where we post updates, news, events and all of our podcasts!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses the "Be my eyes" app.  This app is one in which you grant access to your phone camera and are able to call a volunteer who can see through your camera, in order to tell you what you are looking at.  This has been such a wonderful tool that we constantly use at The Blind American and is definitely one that you should add to your toolbox.  Please share this with your friends and family if you enjoy it, and if you enjoy the app feel free to let us know on The Blind American Facebook page @theblindamerican.

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Dave Wilkinson who is a digital accessibility expert.  Dave has worked for Google over the past several months and starts with Hilton hotels in the coming days.  Dave is also a triathlete and competes in what are known as Iron Man triathlons, which consist of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and full length marathon.  Dave has a very interesting story for somebody who has LCA or Leber congenital amaurosis.We hope that you enjoy this episode and will share with anyone you know who has LCA or any other types of blindness for that matter.  Check us out on Facebook as well @theblindamerican, for all of the updates on new episodes and news/events.

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses a breif overview of what the foundation fighting blindness is.  FFB for short, is a organization that is dedicated to driving research for the treatment of blinding diseases.  The website www.fightingblindness.org has a plethora of resources, information, educational peices, merchandise and ways to donate.  On the website, you can also find info about genetic testing, which is very important and how to join a local chapter.  Joining a local chapter means that you will be connected with other visually impaired individuals in your area.  Don't forget, that you can register for the webinar that is taking place at noon EST on May 22nd as well.  The webinar is going to address all of the on going updates from current clinical trials.  Hope to see you there!Links to their website and registration for the webinar are below.  Make sure to follow The Blind American on Facebook and join our community over there.  Any questions or contact can be initiated through the Facebook page.  https://www.fightingblindness.orghttps://www.fightingblindness.org/national-vision-webinars

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with John Kusku, a math and physics teacher who is also a medalist in goal ball and a paralympian.  John is a team mate of Tyler Merren, who was featured in EP. 7 and John discusses his time training together.  For many of us, math is difficult due to the visual nature of it, however John was able to thrive on the objectivity of it and make his passion a career.  We hope that this episode will enrich your day and inspire you to go after your dreams, whatever they are!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Jeremy Smith, the owner of Atlas Counseling which is a private practice offering counseling and therapy in the Lexington KY area.  Jeremy, just like a lot of us has had his share of ups and downs, as he tells in this podcast including a stent with the Army over seas in Germany, legal battles through discrimination and provides invaluable advice for living with vision loss.  We hope that you draw as much inspiration from this story and conversation as we did!  Remember to share, like, rate the episode and check us out on Facebook for upcoming episodes and to build a strong community of visually impaired individuals.As promised, here are the links to his counseling services and a link to follow his memoir journey :https://www.facebook.com/atlascounselinglexington/http://www.atlascounselinglexington.comhttps://m.facebook.com/T-Jeremy-Smith-Writer-2083371198353040/

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Martin Riffe, who has a rare visual impairment which cause him to go from 20/20 perfect vision to being legally blind in a matter of six weeks.  This happened towards the end of his college career but did not stop him from becoming very successful in his life long career of technology sales.  This is a great podcast for anyone interested in tech sales or business for that matter, who may have a visual impairment.  Please share if you like this and check our Facebook page out as well @theblindamerican

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses some of the pros and cons of using a cane.  In our opinion, the pros far outweigh the cons but in case you were apprehensive, here is a few of the pros and cons of using a cane.  We hope you guys can benefit from this episode and make sure to check out our Facebook page @theblindamerican.  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks answers a common question for visually impaired individuals....When should I start using a cane?  There are several situations and circumstances that clearly indicate that you should consider using a cane.  If you experience more than one of the mentioned situations and notice that they are happening frequently, that is a clear sign, that you should either start or consider starting to use a cane.  We hope this will answer your questions and we will be releasing an episode soon where we discuss the pros and cons of using a mobility cane.  Stay tuned and share if you find this helpful!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Todd Purvis, who is a post production editor for The real house wives of Beverly Hills.  Todd has a disease known as Choroideremia, which is very similar to Retinitis Pigmentosa.  This diagnosis inspired Todd and his brother, who is also diagnosed to shoot a short independent film called "Driving Blind".  The film is a documentary of their journey around the United States to see all of the sights, landmarks and monuments before they potentially could go blind.  This film is a sure recommendation for our listeners and the links are below, both traditional and audio described.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPWkif-5-z0https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Gq7BJ8BUSQ

In this episode, the host Alex sparks gives some advice and a good tip on how to manage stress and get your frustrations out.  It is ever important for individuals with low vision to manage their stress, as our day to day lives can become quite stressful.  Buying a punching bag was one of the best investments that Alex has made recently.  Not to mention, it is fairly affordable and also a great workout.  We hope you enjoy this short episode, and look forward to hearing back from all of you!  Follow The blind american on Facebook for all updates and to stay connected!

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks has a great discussion with Karrie McDermott about her profession as a teacher for the visually impaired.  Karrie stresses the importance of her profession, some of the challenges that her students face and the satisfaction that is had from working in this field.  She also talks about the pros and cons of using a guide dog, so if you are interested in getting a guide dog then listen up!  If you have any questions for Karrie she is more than glad to assist, just send her an email at visionteach21@gmail.com

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks has a great discussion with Julie Bruno about her life long career in business administration, where she encountered some opsticles but ultimately came out on top.  Julie, was also a teacher for several years and is an incredible ambassador for the disabilities community.  Julie used to educate young children about blindness and gave some great advice for those considering a career in either business administration or anything for that matter.

In this episode, the host, Alex Sparks talks with Tyler Merren about his condition, personal training, sports, traveling the world with the United States Paralympic team, motivational speaking and his business's.  Tyler makes it very clear in this podcast that grieving is okay, but eventually we have to dust ourselves off and get back up, in order to live a fervent life.  Also, that these grievences will sometimes resurface, but we have to learn how to accept them for what they are and minimize their impact.  Here are some links to Tyler's website, FAcebook group and YouTube channel, for those who enjoyed this episode.  https://www.revisionfitnessapp.com for the website https://www.facebook.com/groups/492112998046718/?ref=share  for the Facebook group https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOPyMcRYmlrxb8p3gkfHVRQ  for the YouTube Channel   

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Braeden McNulty, a PHD student about the importance of self advocacy for visually impaired individuals.  The two have multiple technical difficulties, and even an anomoly for the host.  Many great points made about fostering relationships and in becoming a self advocate in order to get a greater return not only academically but in all areas of your life.

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks talks with Emily Zilka, a young girl diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) nearly 10 years ago, who is currently on a path of self love, care and prosperity.  The two discussed acceptance of the disease, societal lapses concerning individuals with disabilities and her time at the aduldt transitional program after high school.  One of Emily's biggest passions in life is fashion.  You can see her modeling western fashion on her instagram @emily_zilka.  

In this episode, the host Alex Sparks discusses an important philosophy that will alleviate stress, anxiety and tension within the mind.  The title says it all.  Too often we are tied up in the future or thinking that something will be better tomorrow.  We need to focus on the present, wholistically as RP brothers and sisters to get the full spectrum of enjoyment from life.  This goes not only for those of us with RP or other visual limitations, who are hung up on a cure but for anyone who is not getting the satisfaction that they deserve from life.

In this episode, The host Alex Sparks, has a conversation with Van Duesterberg who is a PHD graduate from Stanford University.  Van works closely with physicians in the bio-tech industry, more so as it relates to Retinitis Pigmentosa and other related visual diseases/disorders.  Van has also started a company known as patientled.org. Which is dedicated to bridging the gap between clinicians and patients, in order to foster healthier and more empathic relationships and experiences.  Not to mention, Van also is effected by RP, and yet this is another example of how we can defeat this disease and live our lives the way that we want to, accomplishing anything that our sighted peers can.

In this episode, the host, Alex Sparks dives into the influence that your thoughts have on your character.  He talks about several different ways to hack your mindset or belief system in order to get more out of life.  These principles are universal and will benefit all whom decide to adopt them.  Lastly, here is the link to the YouTube video that he mentions while talking about the affirmations:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDUoLr6iVUg

in episode #1 the host, Alex Sparks gives a short summary of what the purpose of this podcast is.  He also dives a little bit into his background and personal story with losing his vision.  A bit raw, the first several episodes are going to be rough around the edges as he learns how to record efficiently, edit and get a feel for this new adventure on his own.  In our eyes, here at The Blind AMerican podcast, we value the small steps towards the end goal, as there is substancial potency found within consistancy and the power of compounding.