The Tactile Traveler

The Tactile Traveler — Ep. 66Empowering blind and low-vision people to explore the world — and helping sighted friends see it differently.In this episode: how to keep guide dogs, pets, and yourself safe from wildfire smoke, why it's crucial to tell your anesthesiologist if you use marijuana before surgery, and tips for blind and low-vision folks on recording videos. Plus, we honor the life and behind-the-scenes impact of Leslie Stephens, who helped bring this show to life.Hosted by Nick Isenberg. Produced by KDNK Community Radio in Carbondale, Colorado.

In this episode, we delve into why so many people born extremely premature are blind due to Retrolental Fibroplasia (RLF) and Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), advances in treatment and prevention with insights from Dr. Jennifer Jung, pediatric ophthalmologist at Children's Hospital Colorado; The emotional and physical challenges premature babies and their families face during early eye treatments; A hands-on test of the Glide mobility device; Tips for planning summer activities around the weather for optimal accessibility and enjoymentWhether you're blind, visually impaired, a sighted friend or family member, or simply curious, this episode sheds light on medical history, modern progress, and personal stories that help all of us see the world in a new way.

On this episode of The Tactile Traveler — discover the strange history of incubators and why some of us are alive and blind because of them. We'll also take a walk into tick territory: how to avoid getting bitten, what to do if you are, and why those silent bloodsuckers are deadlier than they seem. Plus, a better way to stand up—literally—that saves your knees, back, and maybe even your baby.

On this episode of The Tactile Traveler — discover the strange history of incubators and why some of us are alive and blind because of them. We'll also take a walk into tick territory: how to avoid getting bitten, what to do if you are, and why those silent bloodsuckers are deadlier than they seem. Plus, a better way to stand up—literally—that saves your knees, back, and maybe even your baby.Host Nick Isenberg shares his own powerful story of survival and vision loss, and introduces the experts who are changing how we think about medicine, nature, and everyday movement.Empowering blind and low vision people to explore the world—and helping our sighted friends see it in a new way.

In this episode, set sail with us in this exciting segment of The Tactile Traveler as we explore the world of blind sailing—how visually impaired sailors navigate the open water with skill, confidence, and a deep connection to their surroundings.Then, we're diving into a topic that's just as thrilling—how blind people flirt! From clever conversation to reading the room without sight, we'll uncover the unique ways blind individuals make connections and spark romance.Tune in for adventure, laughter, and insights that prove vision isn't a requirement for confidence—whether on the waves or in the dating game!

Episode 63: Blind Sailing & The Art of Blind FlirtingSet sail with us in this exciting episode of The Tactile Traveler as we explore the world of blind sailing—how visually impaired sailors navigate the open water with skill, confidence, and a deep connection to their surroundings.Then, we're diving into a topic that's just as thrilling—how blind people flirt! From clever conversation to reading the room without sight, we'll uncover the unique ways blind individuals make connections and spark romance.Tune in for adventure, laughter, and insights that prove vision isn't a requirement for confidence—whether on the waves or in the dating game!

Join host Nick Isenberg on The Tactile Traveler, a podcast empowering blind and low-vision individuals to explore the world while offering sighted listeners a fresh perspective. In this episode:Blind Farming: Meet Mike Duxbury, the world's first known blind farmer, who runs two inclusive teaching farms in the UK. Learn how he navigates farming using high-tech tools, from digital labels to smart glasses, and how he's helping people with disabilities enter the agriculture industry.Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft: Author Deborah E. Joyce shares her personal experience with identity theft and offers essential tips to safeguard your financial information, especially while traveling.The Power of Assertive Speech: Discover how assertiveness training benefits blind and low-vision individuals. Experts Dr. Jim Stokes and Hannah Fairbairn discuss practical communication techniques that promote independence and confidence.Celebrating 10 Years of Be My Eyes: Explore how this life-changing app connects blind users with sighted volunteers for real-time assistance.Tune in for inspiring stories, practical advice, and resources to make travel and daily life more accessible!

The Tactile Traveler, hosted by Nick Isenberg and produced by KDNK Community Access Radio, empowers blind and low-vision individuals to explore the world while offering new perspectives to sighted listeners. In this episode, we address a critical yet often overlooked issue—preventing sexual offenses before they happen. Featuring experts in therapy and support systems, we explore resources available to individuals struggling with harmful urges, aiming to protect both potential victims and those seeking help. Tune in for vital insights, support networks, and actionable steps toward prevention.

In this episode, we recap the focus is on Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS), a condition where those losing or without vision experience visual hallucinations. Featuring interviews with Judith Potts, founder of Esme's Umbrella, and Dr. Gary Cusick from Louisville, Kentucky, the episode sheds light on the challenges of CBS, discusses available support, and emphasizes the importance of awareness and self-advocacy in navigating this aspect of vision loss.

In episode 59, host Nick Isenberg explores the challenges faced by deaf/blind individuals at large, noisy events like the Democratic National Convention. He shares personal experiences and adaptive solutions that help improve accessibility, from specialized hearing devices to creative tech adjustments. Nick also discusses the importance of not delaying hearing aids, as untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive issues and social isolation. Plus, the episode offers insights into altitude sickness for travelers venturing to high elevations.

In this episode of the Tactile Traveler we'll highlight how your state's Vocational Rehabilitation agency can change your life, share essential advice on respecting Native American cultures when visiting Indian Country, and offer practical tips for using drinking fountains. Plus, we explore the incredible impact your vote can have, along with inspiring stories of resilience and empowerment. Join us on this journey of exploration and empowerment for both blind and sighted listeners!

In this episode, we're diving into how blind and low-vision folks can explore the world and enjoy the great outdoors. We'll cover everything from Leave No Trace principles and the thrill of blind hunting to tips on staying safe during hunting season and enjoying birding without sight. Plus, we'll introduce you to a new Native American travel site that's accessible and inclusive. Whether you're blind, visually impaired, or sighted, there's something in this episode for you. Tune in and let's explore the world in a whole new way together!

Welcome to Episode #56 of The Tactile Traveler, from KDNK Community Access Radio in Carbondale, Colorado. We're all about creating fun and meaningful experiences for both blind and sighted travelers, helping to tackle the isolation that can come with vision loss. In this episode: - We dive into the impact of gun violence on blindness with some powerful survival stories. - Get important tips on blind etiquette, including why you should never grab a blind person. - Hear Jennifer Cleveland's inspiring advice on staying independent while losing sight. - And catch an exciting update on showdown, a game designed specifically for the blind community. Whether you're blind, visually impaired, or sighted, there's something valuable here for you. Listen now and help us spread the word!

The Dangers of Fireworks   Blind Fishing A Community College may be in Your Future, even if You haven't been a Good Student   Tips for our sighted friends on guiding us   AndExciting News from Kayly Romero    

What to do when you are blind in a hurricane and describing things better to blind people.

The History and the Amazing Value of White Canes and Making the Weather Work for You Cover photo by Kristin Cato

Welcome to episode 52 of "The Tactile Traveler" podcast! Join us as we explore Camp Abilities, a groundbreaking program empowering blind kids through athletic development and self-advocacy. Discover step-by-step guides on how to play goalball and showdown, two exciting games tailored for the blind community. Plus, we delve into the topic of overcoming fears and staying cautious around shadows!

Join us in today's episode as we explore the challenges and importance of exercise for blind individuals. Gain insights from renowned experts Dr. Neil Wolkodoff, and Dr. Lauren Lieberman, discover practical tips for staying active, and be inspired by transformative stories from individuals like Archur Felder and Arlene. Plus, dive into the world of blind sports, including the fascinating game of pickleball!

In this episode, the focus is on Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS), a condition where those losing or without vision experience visual hallucinations. Featuring interviews with Judith Potts, founder of Esme's Umbrella, and Dr. Gary Cusick from Louisville, Kentucky, the episode sheds light on the challenges of CBS, discusses available support, and emphasizes the importance of awareness and self-advocacy in navigating this aspect of vision loss.

In this episode, explore the experiences of blind individuals in prison and the captivating world of blind ballet. Discover the challenges, successes, and movements for change within these communities, all designed to expand understanding and empower individuals worldwide. To provide feedback, share story ideas, or for any other questions email ⁠⁠thetactiletraveler@gmail.com⁠⁠.

Today's episode delves into critical conversations on "The Disabilities Talk" and highlights the aspirations of Blind Nurses, offering insights into the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments in various scenarios, and empowering listeners with stories of overcoming obstacles. To provide feedback, share story ideas, or for any other questions email ⁠thetactiletraveler@gmail.com⁠.

Welcome to The Tactile Traveler Program #47! Learn about the crucial role of audio describers and the preparation and creativity that goes into making these experiences more accessible and enjoyable for all.

In Episode 46 of The Tactile Traveler, learn crucial tips for handling bear encounters when you're blind, and explore how 3D printing, with the assistance of see3d.org, is enhancing the lives of the visually impaired community.

In Episode 45, we delve into the world of Blind Soccer, a rapidly growing sport in the United States. Blind soccer player John Marquez introduces us to the game, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and heightened auditory perception. Then, explore the art of flirting among blind individuals, with personal stories and insights from blind psychologist Jim Stokes and others. Join us on this month's episode of the Tactile Traveler!

Welcome to Episode 44 of The Tactile Traveler Podcast! Join us as we explore the Vietnam War Memorial Wall, learn how to become a delegate to the next Democratic or Republican National Convention, and discover Braille Beer in Japan.

In this episode, we discuss how marijuana affects surgery and what you need to inform your anesthesiologist. We also dive into the world of blind runners and share the exciting Flight for Sight competition.

In this episode, we'll discover Brewability, a unique and inclusive restaurant in Denver, Colorado, explore the process of choosing a nursing home or rehabilitation center, and delve into the world of blind birding.

Hurricane season officially begins June 1st! To help us prepare, on today's episode we rerunning our two most important stories on disaster preparedness, and assistance available to us after an emergency. No matter where we live, or go in the United States, we are exposed to possible natural disasters from hurricanes along the Golf and Atlantic coasts to forest fires in California and along the West Coast,  and forest and wildland fires, floods,  and tornadoes in between.   So, "weather" we're at home or on vacation, it's a good idea to be prepared for what might come our way!

In this episode, we'll be discussing the Sounds of silent electric vehicles and how to visit NASA for blind people.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the ups and downs of altitude sickness, tactile trail maps, making sure you have everything you need in your suitcase before you head off, tips on finding your suitcase in luggage claim, and how not to get caught in the rain on your vacation.

Training centers all over the world teach blind people how to cook while blind. But no one has thought about how to cook for blind people. In this episode, we'll chat with Kevin Clarke, Lia Stone, and Carla Farrand about what can be done to improve the tasting and cooking experience for blind people.

Did you know that there are more than two-thousand American Indian, Native Alaskan, and Native Hawaiian-owned hotels, resorts, restaurants, museums, ski resorts, cultural centers, and even tour companies? In today's episode, learn about indigenous-owned vacation retreats, visiting Native America, Alaska, and Hawaii, and finding blind ski programs.

In this episode, we'll discuss blind surfing, getting a free permanent National Parks Pass for people with any kind of permanent disability, free Christmas trees for fourth graders, an update on the 6 Dot Dash, and how to hold a party without pressuring people to drink. Plus, Christmas greetings from all of us at The Tactile Traveler!

In this episode, we're discussing the history of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and two ways to find your way back to your seat in a restaurant, theater, or stadium using the Clew App and Apple Airtags.

In this episode, we'll discuss topics like learning to learn your neighborhood; BridgingApps, an app for people with all kinds of disabilities, including people who are blind or have low vision; Clew and Apple AirTags, an app and a digital assistant that helps us find our way back to things like seats in theaters; An update on Jason Esterhuizen, the blind man who had an implant installed in his brain to help him see things around him and, an update on the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the world's largest hot springs pool.

In this episode, we'll discuss lost person behavior and what to do when you're blind and lost, Robert J. Koester, Ph.D. - the ultimate expert on how people are likely to behave when they get lost and getting on the back seat of a tandem bike.

In this episode, we'll discuss how to swim in the ocean when you're blind, and a trip to a tasting, or food source, garden. In memory of Kat Bradbury who made The Tractile Traveler possible.

What to do if you're blind in an active shooter situation. A follow-up on our responsibilities in a natural disaster, like a hurricane or forest fire. How to ride a bicycle with only 10% field of vision. Blind race car driver, Dan Parker, has met the Blind Driver Challenge, and his newest challenge.

OUR responsibilities during natural disasters like hurricanes or forest fires How to keep from loosing your cell phone Using folding hanging cosmetic cases to keep track of your medicine Computers for the Blind and Blind race car driver Dan Parker has met the Blind Drivers Challenge

In this Episode: Summer Edition; Why Glenwood Springs Colorado is one of the best tourist destinations for blind travelers because of all the experiential things to do there.

ow Charles Bonnet Syndrome affects your life Free help with home COVID test from Aira Taking a trip to a car show How to eat with chopsticks

In this Episode: What its like being blind in the truckers convoys in Ottawa, Canada. How little screens can make a big difference in your life. And, how to eat with silverware. The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 27 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: Breaking our mental barriers with Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to climb Mt. Everest, Goat yoga, and dialing telephone extensions. The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 26 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this special edition of the Tactile Traveler we're explaining why Glenwood Springs is one of the best tourist destinations in the world for blind travelers because of all its experiential opportunities. The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 25 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: How orthotics may reduce the need for knee and hip replacements. How to move an oxygen concentrator. Airports where you can use AIRA for free outside of the United States, and, you don't have to be alone on New Year's Eve. The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 24 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: How orthotics may reduce the need for knee and hip replacements. How to move an oxygen concentrator. Airports where you can use AIRA for free outside of the United States, and, you don't have to be alone on New Year's Eve. The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 24 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: How being assertive can make life more fun for both blind and sighted people. The subway station of the future for blind and low vision riders is already here in a city in South Korea, and insights on better ways to describe things to those of us who can't see them The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 23 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: A way to reduce knee and hip replacements. The difference between traveling with a white cane and a guide dog. How to move an oxygen concentrator and “Go Go Grandparent.” The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 22 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: What to do if you're blind and get caught in a hurricane. Free medical luggage. How to make watching sports with friends more fun, and tactile art with Rishika Kartik The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 21 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.

In this Episode: InChroma Lenses may help 80 percent of color blind people experience colors. How Oregon's 273 State Parks are becoming blind and handicapped friendly, and cruising in a "Cruise Origin," a time shared self-driving car. The transcript of this episode will be available at the link below. Tactile Traveler 20 Transcript Link The goal of this podcast is to empower blind and low-vision people to explore the world, and help our sighted friends see the world in a new way. Frequently, as people lose their eyesight, they become more and more isolated. The Tactile Traveler hopes to empower people, not only to go literally around the world, but around the block to new adventures in their lives. All episodes of this program are available at anchor.fm/thetactiletraveler We'd like you to weigh in on how were doing. Please let us know by sending an e-mail to thetactiletraveler@gmail.com we spell traveler the American way with one “L.” Transcripts of this program are also available for our deaf listeners by searching The Tactile Traveler in any search engine. This program is also being broadcast on the Audio Information Network of Colorado and in additional states. It's also available by typing The Tactile Traveler into any search engine and available wherever you get podcasts and by asking your smart speaker for THE TACTILE TRAVELER podcast.