Podcasts about state services

Josh Subhan shares a real-world look at how internships can open doors from college to career. As a University of Minnesota grad who is turning his internship at Metro Transit into a full-time job, Josh breaks down what internships are, when to start applying, and how the process actually works. He walks through finding opportunities on company career pages and sites like Indeed, preparing resumes and interviews, and using campus career centers and State Services for the Blind for mock interviews and connections. Josh also talks honestly about disclosure, accessibility tools, and finding your niche in a changing job market. Most of all, he reminds students not to get discouraged—applications can be tough, but persistence, preparation, and using your network can make the difference between waiting for an opportunity and landing one. Link to the Internship episode:   Internships for Students: Real Work, Real Experience, Real Opportunities   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript   Thanks for listening!

Envision Blind Sports is expanding to Minnesota—and that means more chances for blind and low vision youth to move, compete, and discover what they're capable of. In this episode, Jeff talks with Minnesota Regional Manager Ricky Ties and Program Director Jillian Stringfellow about how adaptive sports build confidence, independence, and real community. From wrestling, goalball, and beep baseball to kayaking, swimming, and a jam-packed summer camp with 25+ adaptive sports, Envision focuses on exposure—helping kids find something they love and carry that confidence back into school and life. Ricky shares how sports helped him grow as a visually impaired athlete on the world stage, while Jillian highlights how families, volunteers, and local partners make these opportunities possible. The message is simple and powerful: get out of your comfort zone, try something new, and discover what's possible. Fear less. Do more. Related Links:   EnvisionBlindsports.org Email Ricky Ties   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Thanks for listening!   Full Transcript  

If you're a blind or low-vision high school student heading to college, this College Readiness Workshop from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota breaks time management into a simple system you can actually use. Tou Yang and the SSB transition team talk with students about setting clear goals, knowing your "why" (motivation), building a realistic schedule, and staying disciplined—especially when you hit that week-two wall and want to quit. The group names common traps like procrastination and cramming, and offers practical fixes: block out study time, write everything down, set reminders, and cut distractions (yes, your phone). A key college takeaway is the "1 hour in class = 2 hours outside class" guideline, which shows how fast a 15-credit schedule becomes a full-time workload. Students also hear that schedules can flex—shift time between classes and protect downtime to avoid burnout.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript   Thanks for listening!

What happens when workforce innovation stops focusing on individuals alone—and starts supporting entire families? In this episode of Manager Minute, Carol Pankow sits down with Lucas Halverson and Kathy Davis of ServiceSource to explore Families Achieving Self-Sufficiency Together (FASST)—a Disability Innovation Fund initiative that's connecting VR, TANF, employers, and community partners in a powerful new way. You'll hear how FASST: ·       Tackles generational poverty through a family-centered employment model ·       Supports disconnected youth and adults with disabilities across multiple states ·       Complements VR services without duplicating them ·       Uses AI-powered job matching and strong employer partnerships ·       Creates real solutions during Order of Selection and funding constraints This conversation is a must-listen for VR leaders, program managers, and partners looking for scalable, practical models that expand impact without expanding cost.   Listen Here   Full Transcript:   {Music} Lucas: The big goal is to break the cycle of poverty. We want to create lasting self-sufficiency, reduce the need for benefits and things of that nature.   Kathy: The beauty of this project is that it was originally designed for six sites across multiple states.   Lucas: We don't intend as a program to supplant programs that already exist, but we do intend to supplement or fill the gaps that exist.   Kathy: We are one as part of this project, and you would not have to pay fee for service or contract us. We're already being paid through the grant.   Intro Voice: Manager Minute, brought to you by the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center. Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host, Carol Pankow.   Carol: Welcome to the manager minute. In today's episode, we're diving into one of the exciting initiatives funded through the Rehab Services Administration's Disability Innovation Fund 21st Century Workforce Grants. And these grants were designed to spark new ideas and scalable strategies that help youth and adults with disabilities prepare for and succeed in today's rapidly changing world of work. From artificial intelligence and virtual reality to cross-system partnerships and new ways of engaging employers. These projects are testing innovative models that could reshape how we think about disability employment for the 21st century. And one of those projects, launched just this past year, is led by ServiceSource, and it's taking a unique approach to helping families move toward self-sufficiency and employment. And joining me today to talk about it are Lucas Halverson, project director, and Kathy Davis, one of the key leaders behind this groundbreaking effort. So how goes it, Lucas?   Lucas: Hey, good morning Carol. Everything's going very well. Thank you so much for inviting us to talk about our project today. We're extremely excited to be here to talk about our project Families Achieving Self-sufficiency Together. We also call it fasst with two S's. So thanks again for having us.   Carol: You bet. How about you, Kathy? How are you doing?   Kathy: I'm doing great, Carol, thanks so much for having us. We are definitely excited to speak with you about our grant, which is short for that Disability Innovation Fund.   Carol: Excellent. Yeah, I've had a lot of experience talking with other DIF grantees in like the C.D.E.F. We always give them the little alphabet soup label, but there have been different focuses each year that RSA had released the Disability Innovation Fund grant. So it's been really fun to catch up and see what things are happening. So let's dig in. So before we get into the details of your project, Lucas, could you tell us a little bit about your background and how you came to be involved in this work?   Lucas: Yeah, absolutely. So my entire professional career is related to helping others. That started as an employment development specialist right after my bachelor's degree, focusing on all things employment placement, support services, community based, competitive, integrated employment. I transitioned from that into helping individuals with more significant disabilities prepare for employment. I've done a little bit of group and individual substance abuse counseling, but largely the last 15 years or so, I've been in the world of vocational rehabilitation in a variety of roles, both on the public side and the private sector side, and was happy through those wonderful years to get my master's degree in rehab counseling and my certified rehabilitation counselor credential. So to present day, I've been with ServiceSorce for over ten years, and when the grant was awarded, I looked at it as an opportunity to still stay in the world that I love of helping people, but knew it would expand my skills and really looked at it as an opportunity to bring a pretty large proposal to life. And so here we are, fresh into the second year of our project and seeing all of that happen. So very exciting.   Carol: It's very cool. I love finding people's stories, like how you found your way into this world of work, because we all came in a long and winding road different ways, but make it in. And then once you're in, you're kind of hooked. It's hard to leave. So, Kathy, how about you? How did you come to be involved in this work?   Kathy: Well, same. I love people's stories about how they find their vocation. And I have also been serving individuals with disabilities for a very long time, well over 20 years. I started as a volunteer in high school with Easter Seals, and from there, I did volunteer work with therapeutic horseback riding. I eventually also went back to school and got my master's in rehab counseling and became a nonprofit community mental health counselor and a traumatic brain injury program manager. And because of my background in counseling and also a previous master's degree in economics, when the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act was being discussed,  and the emphasis changed to or included employers. My econ background and my master's rehab counseling background made me a little bit of a unicorn, and I was hired by a Blind services agency around 2012. And then I also did business relations for them. And then I was hired to start the first business relations program at one of the VR agencies. And really, my golden thread throughout all of my career has been starting new programs. No matter what role I've been in. I love new things, I love innovation, and so DIF has been a perfect fit for me. I'm also working on my doctorate degree, almost finished with that and doing a Pre-ETS dissertation. So I have a really strong interest in evaluation. And so evaluation actually brought me to this project. And I serve as an internal evaluator for it.   Carol: Wow, you are a unicorn. Let me say that is exciting. Very fun. Thanks for sharing that. So when you two first saw the grant announcement, what caught your attention and made you want to apply?   Lucas: Yeah. So this DIF grant cycle the F grant cycle was the first time nonprofit organizations were eligible to apply. So it was a unique opportunity for ServiceSource. And so our program development team recognized that our agency had the capacity to try to take this on, and also the expertise to successfully apply with a strong proposal, but then also administer and monitor the program successfully. So our organization, ServiceSource, is a leading service provider and employer for individuals with disabilities. So it made us well positioned to deliver impactful outcomes under this project. The DIF grant in general definitely aligns very closely with our mission and our vision and our values. And we have affiliated organizational model that we felt would provide a strategic advantage with this project. So it's allowing us to have a fairly large geographic reach. We have several teams across the country all working together on this project, and it also allows us to leverage partnerships and resources that have already been in existence across these teams and these affiliates to have the greatest impact that we can. And so really, the alignment and the capacity gave us confidence that we could do what this grant needed us to do. And so we're in that second year and really getting rocking and rolling now.   Carol: Yeah, I hadn't realized that ServiceSource had such a big footprint because I was familiar with the work ServiceSource did in Florida, and Tina down in Florida and working with the Florida General Agency. In fact, we did a podcast about that and that particular model, and I knew there were little fingers of that kind of had spread out, I believe, into a few different states, but I hadn't realized, like, really how expansive ServiceSource was. So that is an excellent point that it really positioned you well for this. Now your project family is achieving self-sufficiency together. As you said FASST with the two S's. So no, we don't have a typo. If they read the transcript later, we didn't have a spelling error. It is the FASST you really launched at the end of June. I know that first year is always a very big planning year and getting things ready. Can you give us a quick overview of what the initiative is about, and really what motivated your focus on families?   Lucas: Yeah, absolutely. Really the high level focus aims to help disconnected youth and disconnected adults with disabilities achieve competitive, integrated employment. In addition, you know, using early intervention workforce reintegration strategies to support long term success. That's where the whole self-sufficiency piece comes in, uniquely for our project. But overall, FASST is, as I mentioned, a multi-state initiative, and we want to empower disconnected adults and youth with disabilities. Our core focus is individuals that are eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or TANF. So that's part of our eligibility requirement. And the ultimate focus is to remove barriers to employment and to independence. And so we do that by connecting families to community partners such as vocational rehabilitation, training providers, employers. But we also have staff that assist the individuals we're serving, build those critical skills such as job readiness, financial capability. And we have a case manager component to the team. Each team has a case manager to help with that kind of wraparound, holistic approach, to try to knock down as many barriers as possible. The big goal is to break the cycle of poverty, looking at kind of that two generational approach. We want to create lasting self-sufficiency, reduce the need for benefits and things of that nature. So pretty big goals. But we have a solid team that I'm confident can hit those goals with us.   Kathy: So and related to goals, we really our project has three overall goals. And as Lucas mentioned, it is to connect disconnected adults to find and retain that competitive integrated employment. But I'll also add that we want to have at least one high quality indicator as part of that employment, and we're helping to support them to retain their employment for at least 90 days. But we're also tracking beyond 90 days. And that's one of the really exciting and fun parts of this project. Unlike vocational rehabilitation, where you'd see a closure at 90 days, we're able to support individuals for the remainder of the project if that's what it takes to help them maintain their employment. The second overarching goal that we have is for the youth, disconnected youth ages 14 to 24. Our goal is to help them gain work skills and then either enter employment or enter education and or complete education. And then finally, the third goal would be to build the system's capacity with all of our partners to sustain our model and be able to serve more TANF recipients.   Carol: I like your holistic approach that you guys have brought up. I know back in the day, as customers would come in the door, and I was working at State Services for the Blind in Minnesota. You're looking at employment, but it's hard to just talk employment right off the get go. If people don't have food or your housing is unstable or you have all the other issues, so you've got to kind of connect all the pieces together. Employment obviously is a very important piece of this, but it isn't the only piece. You got to have it all work together.   Lucas: You make a great point, because I realized I didn't touch on the motivation to focus on families as part of this, and it's largely what you just described. You know, we recognize that families are key support systems for the individuals that we're serving. Families strongly influence decisions about anything but including employment and training, career paths. And so our whole focus is trying to have an alignment to that. And again, with our case management, part of our staffing, looking at the barriers, making sure they're addressed to increase those chances of success, because just as you said, there's not transportation, there's not a job. If there's not a house over your head, there's not a job if you don't have food. So all caregiver responsibilities and so the family tie in is really looking at barriers that affect the family. So could be the parent could be a child. But we know how it impacts the household. It creates kind of that ripple effect. And so not addressing it holistically could be a key piece missing. And so kind of the core motivation I guess to capitalize on that is to increase skills, of course, relating to employment, but also to again try to reduce the reliance on benefits as part of that. So knocking down barriers, helping go to work, reducing that need. And one of the key points with our project is as things are evolving, it does align with some of the current different federal agency initiatives. So, for example, children and families is emphasizing employment as a pathway to self-sufficiency. So that's very close to what we're looking at. And another example is Health and Human Services. They're looking at employment and family as the foundation of economic and social well-being. So our project really kind of just fits and plugs into that, because that is what our goal is with the larger focus. But I do think the holistic piece is extremely valuable for this project and will continue to be.   Carol: Yeah, you guys are definitely ahead of the curve because when I saw that that you guys had picked TANF, you know, at first I'm like, well that's interesting. Like how did you come to that? You know, to decide you were going to focus on those folks eligible for TANF and kind of make that the centerpiece?   Lucas: Yeah. So the program development folks that really dug into the proposal, part of the application process did a lot of research and found that largely there was a disconnect. There are a lot of folks that are eligible for TANF or receiving TANF that were appropriate for other agencies, such as vocational rehab, just as one example. But the tie in often wasn't there. It wasn't happening. And so, as Kathy mentioned, one of our goals is to hopefully have some better pipelines for that. So for folks and entities that are naturally working with individuals with TANF to understanding no important programs such as vocational rehab exist and what that looks like and what the scope is and what they can help with. So it just kind of was a noticed need and kind of became one of the key parts of, of this proposal when it was getting all put together.   Carol: I think that's brilliant because you always look at kind of VR can be the best kept secret. People say that all the time, and even though it seems like it would be apparent, like, why wouldn't you, you know, get connected with VR and you're in this program. People don't know that. And it's not necessary that the staff may be working in TANF, even know about VR or what's going on. We don't always do the best job at connecting with all the different partners and other folk out there.   Lucas: Another part of that decision to again, ServiceSource operating many programs across the country. There are a couple TANF specific programs that ServiceSource operated for many years, one being in Virginia that partners with the Virginia Department of Social Services, and then another unrelated program in Denver in Colorado. So there's already some knowledge base of that in addition to the research they all did. So it helped us kind of align with one of our corporate strategic goals of expansion and wanting to increase our support to individuals that are eligible for TANF. And so it kind of checked a, checked a lot of mini boxes, both there being a need and interest from our company with our goal of expanding and serving, you know, additional individuals. So it kind of presented just almost a natural opportunity, I guess, as it was all coming together. And I think it gives, you know, a pretty solid opportunity to try to interrupt the generational poverty that exists within families.   Carol: Well, that's where the magic happens. There's nothing better than having a project that fits with your own corporate mission. You know, the stars are aligned, things all sync up. It's not like you're having to kind of fit round, peg in a square hole or whatever, the square peg in a round hole, because it's all aligned really well. Now, I understand you recently received approval to expand your focus to include disconnected youth such as those in foster care, the justice system. How does that change the picture of your work going forward?   Lucas: Yeah, so kind of a really cool example. So with the DIF grants, one of the key focuses on being innovative and being flexible in changing with what you're finding during your project. And so very early on, not long after we launched the project and began some large increased efforts with outreach almost immediately, there were a handful of situations that involve youth that met the larger definition of disconnected, but didn't quite meet our project eligibility of being in a household that had a parent or guardian eligible for TANF benefits. And so we originally had intended to focus on those youth later in the project. But we talked about it and we did not want to exclude individuals. We knew we had the expertise and interest to serve, and we certainly did not want to risk coming back in the months or years ahead trying to find them. You know, it's kind of like the hot potato. If you have youth that are interested, now is the time. And so we worked with our project officer from RSA and they were very supportive of us expanding our focus to the broader definition of disconnected youth a little bit sooner than we originally planned, of course, but so that expansion includes youth now that are in foster care, the justice system that are low income or don't have stable housing. And so they don't have to have that TANF tie in for, for that kind of subgroup, but still relates very directly to our mission of serving the disconnected youth and adults within the project.   Carol: Yeah, I like that. You recognize that, you know, and take advantage of that as you're seeing that. And that's kind of the beauty of these projects, because they do ebb and flow based on how things are rolling and what you write in a proposal. As everything comes to fruition, you realize different things and you're like, oh, you know, maybe we get to pivot or do something a little differently or whatever that may be, or make this addition and it just makes the project better. I love the flexibility that RSA has with the projects to allow that kind of expansion and changes as you're going along. So I understand you've got six teams working across six states under this shared framework. How does that structure work, and what have you learned so far about coordinating across all these different regions?   Lucas: Yeah, I'm proud and very happy to report that it's been working incredibly well so far. It's kind of a new experience for our organization as well because it's bringing together multiple affiliated teams, but working collectively on the same project at the same time with shared goals. So from the start, when Kathy and I were putting this all together, one of the elements that really wasn't negotiable was building a sense of community within our team. Since we're all working on the same grant, have the same expectations. We knew if everybody was working in their own silo, it would be, you know, highly unnecessary and really counterproductive to what we're wanting to do. So we spent a lot of time in the earlier stages and continue to with emphasizing cross team collaboration. It's really kind of the key driver to our success and our continued success. And so some of the efforts to make this team that's spread across the country feel like we're all sitting in the same office space together, is having weekly meetings. So Kathy and I lead a weekly meeting with all the grant funded staff, their supervisors, the executive directors for the different affiliates, other subject matter experts from our organization, and then different contractors as necessary that are on the project. And we focus on anything and everything relating to the project, so it could be updates, progress, best practices, things that seem to be going well, maybe things that we need to work a little better on any process reviews we need to do. So we go through just anything that's relevant each week, keeps that engagement there, keeps everybody, you know, interacting. And beyond that, we also knew that with having some external contractors on the project that we really needed that to be bought in from the staff as well. And so we had kick off meetings with each contractor, both with our large group and then with each individual team, really just to build rapport, clarify roles, responsibilities, expectations, how it was going to work, what the goals were, and just start those relationships strong as well. You know, there's so much going on when you launch a project that we didn't want our external folks not to feel a partner like our internal folks. And so that's been going remarkably well. And then lastly, the last comment I'll make on this is that we also recognize that because we have really three position types that are working directly with the individuals we're serving, again, spread out across the country. We really wanted them to feel together and not, again, not separate. And so each position has its own community of practice. They meet monthly, they share best practices. They discuss challenges, Brainstorm ideas. For example, case manager in Florida found a gem of a resource that's national. There's no reason our case manager in Utah should have to spend time finding that as well. They talk about it. They you know, hey, I found this. This is great. It might help each other. And so those meetings we've had a lot of positive response on and Kathy and I hop on, if they have a topic they want us to discuss or, you know, problem solve with them. And so we've really felt that's helped bridge that large geographic distance across the teams. And we're hoping that, you know, turns into high quality and impactful services for the folks we're serving efficiently, serving our individuals and not having multiple people having to spend the same time on the same need.   Kathy: Yeah, I'll add something here, too, from an evaluation perspective. You might be familiar that when you start a new program and it develops into a fully developed, successful project and program, and then you start sharing it nationally. Inevitably, someone will, from another state or another agency outside of your region will say, well, that could never work for us because we're, you know, we have these resources or we're serving this population. The beauty of this project is that it was originally designed for six sites across multiple states. And so our implementation really is across varying populations and community resources. And so this project has such strong potential for successful implementation across multiple states and contexts. So we're very excited that we're really documenting everything that we're doing. We'll have a toolkit when we complete the project, and we're really looking forward to sharing what we're doing and how to do it with others.   Carol: And that's a really important piece to RSA. It's one of the things you write to in the project, like how is this going to be sustained past the project ending? Like how can you then, you know, transfer this information to other folks and they can implement it. So I can see where that was very appealing to them as they're looking at evaluating the different proposals that shoot. Here's a group looking at six states. So you mentioned, Lucas, Utah and Florida. What are the other four states that you're in?   Lucas: Yeah. So we're  in Delaware, North Carolina and Virginia. And we're right now in the process of bringing on a team in Colorado. We have the approval. We're just doing the logistics of what it takes to bring them on. That's one of the ServiceSource teams that has an experienced TANF program. And so we looked at that as another opportunity to be able to already leverage existing relationships and expertise to just tie right into what we were already planning to do in the Colorado team was just a little bit newer to ServiceSource, so they weren't part of the original proposal because they weren't here quite yet, but they now are. So we're extremely excited to have some additional folks joining the team and fitting right into what we're doing.   Carol: That's very cool. I know one of your partners. Our Ability, brings some cutting edge tech into the mix with AI powered job matching and training. How is that partnership helping you engage employers and job seekers in new ways?   Lucas: Yeah, so I think as we all know, the workforce development is just kind of an ever evolving landscape. So bringing Our Ability in, I'm extremely excited. John Robinson, the CEO from Our Ability, is part of our project. And at the core of our partnership is the innovative use of technology. They have a portal that's called Jobs Ability, that uses generative AI to connect job seekers to employment based on their interests, their skills, their expertise. So the system helps focus on the challenge of both unemployment but also underemployment among folks with disabilities. And their platform reaches 15,000 people with disabilities each month, which to me is pretty remarkable. That's a lot of folks consistently visiting and using their resources. And so the job matching will assist with better connections between the individuals were serving and getting into the work world, or trying to help upgrade or increase their employment in a system that's already proven, which, you know, helps with efficiency. They already know it works. And so by us leveraging their extensive employer network within the system, you know, we're really focused on fostering the employment opportunities that encourage and again, increase self-sufficiency.   Kathy: Just kind of expanding on what the Jobs Ability portal will mean for our customers. We'll be able to assist our job seekers with creating quality resumes that are keyed in on skills and experience, and there is an AI matching protocol that really matches their preferences and experiences and skills with job descriptions. It's a proprietary AI system, and so we're really excited about how participants are going to be able to be matched with jobs that actually match their skills. These are real jobs, competitive wages. As we said, we have high quality indicators for our outcomes, including wages. And if you think about it, this is a win for our participants as well as our employers, because they are going to be able to actually tap into qualified individuals with disabilities who meet the skills and experience that they are seeking.   Carol: I love AI. I know there's people I've done different podcasts around, different AI initiatives, and some people have different feelings about AI. I know there's kind of the you have the dark side of it, but this sounds super cool. I had not heard of this company. And about this proprietary software. I think that's very interesting and super smart of you to leverage something already out there, proven tested, can be used right away. Instead of you trying to like, go down the road of creating something and doing all of that, you don't need to waste, you know, time and energy in that when you've got something already done. Now, I know no large project like this starts without a few hurdles. What have been some of your biggest challenges so far, and how are you navigating maybe any kind of overlap with other services or agencies?   Kathy: As you said, VR is a well-kept secret. Many times that's what we hear. And so being experienced with that, when we started the project, we knew the outreach was going to be key. And so we did not wait to start our outreach. And Lucas and I developed a very thorough support system and toolkit for our staff to help them really be purposeful about their outreach. And as soon as people were hired, one of the first things they were told to do after they were up and running with knowledge about the project was to start outreach. And honestly, I think we've become an outreach machine and we're really keeping track of hundreds, hundreds of contacts across our six locations that we've made and also just really analyzing which of those resources are turning into pipelines of referrals. And so I think we're going to be learning a lot about that. One of the things that we also knew from the beginning is that we needed to tailor our outreach to the audience. So we have a library of outreach materials for students, for VR, for employers, for schools and parents. So there's many ways that we have. We also are created outreach in other languages. So we're definitely doing our best to reach as many people as we can about this project, and also equipping our staff to be able to speak about it, to really understand it and to be able to keep track of what we're doing to reach the populations that and stakeholders that we're going to serve.   Carol: Very cool.   Lucas: I was going to talk about the overlap with other agencies. It's been a very real discussion with our teams because, you know, how does FASST fit in with other programs that might do similar types of work. And so, you know, it's an ongoing discussion, teaching staff the significance of a comparable benefit, a very familiar term for our friends that have been in the VR world before. We don't intend as a program to supplant programs that already exist, but we do intend to supplement or fill the gaps that exist. Maybe we can move faster within a process to help somebody now that while they'll go through a process that takes a little bit longer, or maybe we can support someone a little bit longer, like Kathy said before, you know, if someone has a VR counselor and at 90 days, VR is comfortable with closing them, but maybe they might need a little bit more support. That might be a gap we can fill or a little bit more job coaching or financial literacy or something like that. And so we really focused on the design of our project to try to rapidly engage individuals as much as we can. We can serve someone start to finish on our own as a project. We don't have to have a built in external component, but we recognize the significance of resource connection, obviously. So both now and down the road for folks, if they're not receiving our support, knowing what resources exist, who can help with different things. And so it's still an ongoing process. So part of that outreach, Kathy mentioned hundreds and hundreds of outreach. We have to hit folks with the right info that makes sense to them. And so for as long as this project's going, I think it will always be a focal point for us to make sure that, you know, it's just clear what we do and what we don't do and what we can do to just try to support agencies and programs that do exist already, but then also knowing we can do a pretty good job on our own if we had to, so.   Carol: So let's hone in a little bit. You've talked a lot about outreach and have mentioned VR, but let's talk about those VR partnerships. How are your teams building relationships at the state and local level, and what can VR agencies gain from working with your project?   Lucas: Yeah, so the teams have done a really good job focusing on building relationships with vocational rehab. Again, trying to listen to what the needs are, what they're seeing as needs, and then versus, you know, collaboration of what we can offer teams that are working on having regular check ins set up. As with any agency, you know, some relationships have been a little more natural than others. But continuing to work together to try to establish those pipelines and that knowledge base of our existence, and then also that need for the individuals that are eligible for TANF. And so I always kind of say, you know, what's in it for VR agencies? And from my perspective, at least, our project can increase access to services and resources that could make service delivery easier or more efficient or more effective, which should then lead to increase or better outcomes. That's the goal. One of our objectives, as Kathy touched on, is to establish a system that connects. Connects the folks eligible for TANF and other entities such as vocational rehab. And so we're really continuing to focus on that and going to continue to ramp that up throughout the project. As the more, you know, line level relationships exist with the different offices and the different staff. And we've learned that adults with disabilities receiving TANF benefits are often best served by VR. As I mentioned, you know, programs can be complex sometimes, and so trying to smooth that out a little bit might be helpful for them. So we kind of see an additional potential to have connect VR teams with employers. We just talked about our ability and John and his team. They have very robust employer connections across the country. And so that'll be a regular interaction. So we might be able to connect some employers. Some of our interest is connecting educational partners as well. So looking at programs that can help foster people to get into good jobs and, you know, and other stakeholders of course, as well. So we kind of see it as a very big collaboration opportunity for our teams. And I really think at the end of the day, it really just to me looks at shared impact. So we work together. How can we all show that the good work everybody's doing is impactful and supporting the individuals that are coming to us that are needing that support?   Carol: It takes a village. It really does.   Lucas: It does. It takes a village. And we have one team, the state they're in recently. Just last month went on order of selection. And so we're using that as another opportunity to be a support because at least I know us in this podcast know when going on Order of Selection, the most significant disabilities have to be focused first. And so those individuals with less significant disabilities are typically the ones that have to wait. And we can serve them. So that team is working with their VR agency to make sure that's known, so that if they have folks going on the waiting list, that it might be a great opportunity to shift them to us and we can support them while they're on the waiting list. And whenever the time would come for that release, we can just catch up together and see where we're at.   Carol: That's a perfect example of really great collaboration, I love that. That I'm glad you mentioned that.   Kathy: Yeah, I just want to mention too, it's kind of tied into that. The reason we're seeing agencies start to use Order of Selection is because of increasing costs. This project would not cost BR to use our services because we're funded through the grant. So if you need an employment service provider, we are one as part of this project and you would not have to pay fee for service or contract us. We're already being paid through the grant, so it really helps with cost.   Carol: Yeah that's perfect. So as you guys look at the year ahead, what are your priorities and what does success look like for FASST as you continue to grow and refine your model?   Lucas: Many things, but I think largely continuing to strengthen the project. You know, we're still relatively new in implementation. And so we've learned a lot and will continue to learn a lot. And so we just really want to make sure we're maximizing the positive impact of the individuals we're serving. First of all, strengthen develop clear pathways. The end goal would be for this to be replicable at the end to scale our model effectively. And so I really think this second year, now that the team's together, everybody's getting comfortable with our process. This year is really where the car starts driving full speed, is how I feel. And I know Kathy, you have some ideas on quality and partnerships too, right?   Kathy: Definitely. As an internal evaluator, I'm looking at quality of this project. I want to make sure that we're ensuring fidelity to our model and the key components of our model and project, and we're going to be making adjustments throughout the next year, especially based on the needs of our participants and even our staff. And we're going to be capitalizing on our successes and sharing best practices across our teams through those communities of practice that Lucas talked about. We want to be consistent in implementing our project across the teams and our locations. So again, we have process documents and we're making sure that we're doing things similarly across our locations. And then we're definitely going to be collecting data. We've already started that process, and we want to make sure that we can demonstrate our outcomes so that we can inform our improvements and just really develop that replicable model in the end. And then as far as collaborations and partnerships go, we're working with our local partners to strengthen our connections and expand resources for our disconnected youth and adults with disabilities. So really looking forward to the next year being strengthening of our program and proving our model.   Carol: Well spoken like a true evaluator indeed, I love that. Oh, that is good stuff. So how could our listeners learn more about your work or connect with the FASST team? Do you have a website or something you could share with us.   Lucas: Yeah, so there's a few ways. So if someone's wanting to get connected to Kathy and I quick, we have an email. It's FASST, which is FASST@ServiceSource.org. Comes directly to Kathy and I, and we can answer questions if it's specific to a team, a referral, something like that. We get it out to the appropriate folks across the different teams. We do have a website. There's a lot of hyphens in it, but so largely it's ServiceSource.org/families-achieving-sufficiency-together. The hyphens had to be in there. So it's a little much if someone's trying to write it down. So I don't know if there's a way to have that posted somehow.   Carol: Yeah, we'll definitely put that in when we post the podcast. We can put that in the transcript too, to have the website linked right there.   Lucas: And then, also always like to put a plug in for the National Clearinghouse of Rehabilitation Training Materials, or NCRTM. They have a website for all DIF grantees that provides information about the project so you can see any of the grant cycles, what they're doing, where they're located, and of course, ours being one of them. So it has information and also ties folks back to our project site as well.   Carol: Well, Heather Servais will sure appreciate that shout out to them. They have great stuff. I sure appreciate you both very much. This is interesting. It'll be fun to catch up with you in a year or so and see, like now that you said you're kind of going full speed ahead to see where things land, I appreciate you.   Kathy: Thank you.   Lucas: Thank you so much.   {Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.   Lucas: The contents of this discussion were developed under Grant H421F240144 from the US Department of Education Department. The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models or other activities described or discussed in this discussion. The contents of this discussion may contain examples of adaptations of, and links to, resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The. The department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness or completeness of this outside information. The content of this discussion does not necessarily represent the policy of the department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy, or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any federal agency. Edgar. 75.620.   Carol: Well, thank you both. I really appreciate you. Good job.   Kathy: Thanks Carol.   Lucas: Thank you so much.   Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.

Applying for scholarships can feel overwhelming, but as Maddy Majors shares in this Blind Abilities episode, the effort is absolutely worth it. Now a college student at the University of Minnesota, Maddy walks listeners through what scholarships really are, how she searched for them, and what the application process actually looks like. From simple essays to multi-round interviews, she explains why applying for multiple scholarships increases your chances and why starting early is key—some deadlines arrive as soon as February. Maddy offers practical tips like using spreadsheets to track deadlines, staying organized, and treating applications like college or job interviews. She also highlights how State Services for the Blind can support students with career exploration, interview practice, and college preparation. Most importantly, Maddy encourages students to stay authentic, take chances, and remember that even the time spent applying can pay off—financially and through valuable connections and opportunities.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but scholarships may be closer—and more achievable—than you think. In this Blind Abilities episode, Joshua Olukanni shares his journey from high school to graduate studies at Georgetown University, and how scholarships helped him pursue college with far less debt. Joshua explains what scholarships really are, why there's one for nearly everyone, and how applying can offer a higher return on your time than a part-time job. He walks listeners through getting organized, using tools like spreadsheets to track deadlines, and seeking feedback to strengthen essays and applications. Joshua also highlights the role State Services for the Blind played by sharing opportunities and supporting his goals. His message to high school students is clear: stay humble, stay organized, ask for help, and apply widely. A few focused hours can change your financial future—and reduce stress for years to come.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

Former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami Begs Nigerians For Justicehttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/former-justice-minister-abubakar-malami-begs-nigerians-for-justice/#Issues #Buhari #Dasuki #Dss #EFCC #Kanu #Malami #Sowore January 24th, 2026 January 24, 2026 11:53 pm Abubakar Malami, a former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation who was in office from November 2015 till May 2023 when the then President Muhammadu Buhari completed his eight years tenure in office, under which, Courts of competent jurisdiction granted several detained Nigerians bail but the Buhari government refused to release them and even rearrested some of them after they had perfected their bail conditions, the then Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami who was saddled with the responsibility of protecting citizens' rights, came out openly and apparently justified the violations of court orders by the then Buhari led government, and during the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, Abubakar Malami, frequently defended the actions of the government's refusal to obey courts orders of bail granted to high profile individuals by asserting that national security and public interest superseded individual rights, some of the high profile individuals included Colonel Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser in the era of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan who was held for four years from December 2015 to December 2019, despite being granted bail by at least four different Nigerian high courts and the ECOWAS Court, he was repeatedly re-arrested by the Department of State Services, DSS immediately after fulfilling bail conditions, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky and his wife Zeenah, detained from December 2015 until they were released in July 2021 were refused bail after Federal court declared their detention illegal in 2016 and ordered their release by January 2017, but the government under which Abubakar Malami was a Justice Minister did not comply, until they were eventually acquitted of all charges by a Kaduna State High Court in 2021, also, Omoyele Sowore, an activist and a Journalist who is the founder of SaharaReporters news media remained in DSS custody for several months in 2019 despite fulfilling bail conditions set by Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu, he was re-arrested within the courtroom just 24 hours after a temporary release,Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted and jailed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB Leader was refused bail during his initial trial in 2015, President Buhari then publicly stated during a media chat that Kanu among others would not be allowed to go on bail due to the nature of their alleged crimes, despite court rulings, in addition, was Navy Captain Dada Labinjo who was detained by the Nigeria Military from September 2018 until at least late 2019, despite a Federal High Court order for his release and during these periods, Abubakar Malami provided several justifications for these detentions, most notably during his 2019 ministerial screening: Malami stated that the office of the AGF is meant to protect the public interest, and "where the individual interest conflicts with the public interest, the interest of 180 million Nigerians must naturally prevail", he cited the Supreme Court case of Asari Dokubo versus Federal Republic of Nigeria, arguing, it established that national security could supersede personal liberty in specific contexts and when Dasuki and Sowore were finally released in December 2019, Malami claimed the government did so on "compassionate grounds" and in compliance with court orders, while denying that international pressure from the United States, US influenced the decision, currently, the then apparent defender and justifier of government disobedient to court orders, is now calling on Nigerians and begging them to help him get justice since the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC kept him in custody against court order that he had said earlier granted him bail and after perfecting his bail conditions, he was rearrested by the DSS and since he has remained in detention. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

This Blind Abilities episode shines a spotlight on internships for blind and low-vision students—and why starting early can open real doors. Tou Yang and Randi Lasher from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota (SSB), break down how high school and college students can access paid and unpaid internships that build skills, confidence, and career momentum. Listeners learn what internships really are, why they matter beyond just a paycheck, and how they connect classroom learning to real-world experience. The conversation highlights how SSB helps students explore careers, prepare for post-secondary education, advocate for themselves, and find meaningful internship opportunities across Minnesota. From local city programs to statewide options in technology, healthcare, STEM, public service, and more, this episode makes one thing clear: opportunities exist—but timing matters. Whether you're planning for summer, next year, or your future career path, this episode gives students practical guidance, resources, and motivation to take action and get ahead.   Links to Internship Opportunities mentioned in this episode: Handshake  - Summer Internships for College Students   ·      Step Up - Kick Start Your Career with Step Up (Minneapolis) ·      Right Start - Youth Jobs Internships (St. Paul) ·      Genisis Works - Where Tomorrow's Work Force Begins ·      Urban Scholars - Internships and Training ·      Scrubs Camp - Medical Careers ·      Seeds Student Worker Program ·      Phoenix Student Worker Program - Science, Technology, engineering or Mathematics ·      State of Minnesota Careers Interns and Student Workers ·      BrookLynk- Summer Student Internship Program (Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park) ·      Tree Trust Summer Students Internships ·      Three Rivers Park Internship Program ·      The Brand lab - Marketing and Graphic Design Program ·      the Minnesota Historical Society - Work in a Museum! ·      SSB Youth Services Work Based Learning and Work Readiness opportunities ·      Career Force Locations in Minnesota   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript   Thanks for listening!

Alex and Amy are joined by Eyal Darmon of Accenture to talk about our recent joint report. Specifically we are talking about how citizens and CIOs view the challenges of accessing state services--where they align and where they don't. See the report here: https://www.nascio.org/resource-center/resources/harnessing-genai-to-elevate-the-citizen-experience/

In this Blind Abilities episode, listeners meet Ava, a fully blind high school junior and Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Ava shares what it's like balancing a packed academic schedule filled with AP and college-in-the-schools classes, while staying involved in speech, music, and leadership. As captain of her school's speech team and a member of choir and band, Ava talks about the importance of being well-rounded—not just academically strong. She opens up about how self-advocacy, supportive parents, and mentors have helped her grow more independent and confident. Ava also discusses her interest in clinical psychology, her use of assistive technology like NVDA, braille displays, and VoiceOver, and why asking questions is one of the most important skills blind teens can develop. Her story highlights independence, leadership, and how peer connection through SSB helps students prepare for college, careers, and life beyond high school.   This episode is part of a shared Peer Ambassador spotlight featuring two blind high school students who bring different experiences, strengths, and goals to the conversation. To hear another perspective on leadership, academics, and life as a blind teen in Minnesota, be sure to check out the companion episode. Together, these stories show how connection, self-advocacy, and community can shape your future.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!  

What does it look like to be a blind high school student who's busy, motivated, and dreaming big? In this episode of Blind Abilities, meet Preston—a 15-year-old sophomore, honors and AP student, award-winning speech and debate competitor, musician, and newly selected Peer Ambassador with State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Preston shares what it's really like balancing challenging classes, extracurriculars, and leadership, while also learning strong study habits and time management skills. From placing second in the state in congressional debate to performing in choirs and playing jazz piano, Preston proves that blindness doesn't limit ambition. He also talks about the importance of community, Expanded Core Curriculum skills, and connecting with other blind and visually impaired students through camps, events, and peer leadership. His excitement about bringing students together—and helping others succeed—makes this conversation inspiring, relatable, and full of possibilities for teens figuring out their own path forward.   This episode is part of a two-part Peer Ambassador spotlight series. If you like hearing how blind teens are stepping into leadership, building community, and planning for the future, be sure to check out the companion episode featuring the other Peer Ambassador. Together, these conversations offer two unique perspectives—and double the inspiration.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

In this Blind Abilities conversation, Michael Colbrunn shares a compelling, firsthand look at the Business Enterprise Program through State Services for the Blind and how it created a pathway to self-employment, confidence, and long-term growth. Michael never imagined himself as a business owner, but with training, guidance, and ongoing support from State Services for the Blind, he discovered an opportunity to build and grow a business on his own terms. From managing vending operations to overseeing a full food service contract, Michael explains how the Business Enterprise Program provides the tools, mentorship, and structure needed to succeed—while still allowing operators to shape their own future. He speaks openly about starting small, learning from mistakes, adapting to technology, and staying competitive in a changing marketplace. Most importantly, Michael emphasizes that this program is not about limitations—it's about ownership, independence, and proving what's possible. For anyone exploring career options through State Services for the Blind, this episode offers insight, motivation, and a real-world success story.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!

In today's episode we're excited to welcome Stacy Shamblott, the Aging Eyes Coordinator and a Low Vision Rehabilitation Specialist with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development's State Services for the Blind. Tune in as we discuss helping individuals with vision loss adapt to life through community programs, low vision aids, and specialized training.  Subscribe to the podcast:  https://MayoClinicOphthalmology.podbean.com   Follow and reach out to us on X and IG: @mayocliniceye 

Iowa completed a five-year technology upgrade, integrating 22 state departments into a single system for tax, alcohol, and lottery operations. The new GovConnectIowa platform enables users to file taxes, obtain business licenses, and communicate with the Department of Revenue online. Over 400,000 users have registered, and the system has processed more than 8.7 million web forms and 40,000 messages. The project involved multiple state agencies and received national awards for innovation and accessibility.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thinking about college but not sure what it's really like as a blind or low vision student? In this College 101 conversation, transition coordinator Shane DeSantis teams up with Kira and Mohamed, two blind/low vision college students, to break it all down from a student point of view. They talk about choosing a campus that fits you, connecting early with the disability office, and getting the right accommodations in place — from Braille and digital textbooks to private testing rooms, extra time, and note-taking tools like Voice Dream and iPad apps. You'll hear how advocating for yourself, emailing professors, and actually talking to them before or after class can make or break a semester. They also share real talk on time management, learning new tech, O&M training, riding the bus, dealing with homesickness, and finding free-food events and support programs that make campus life more fun and less scary.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript thanks for listening!  

Tinubu Declares Emergency In Nigeria, Bans Open Grazing, Ok State Policehttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/tinubu-declares-emergency-in-nigeria-bans-open-grazing-ok-state-police/#Issues #army #Dss #Nigeria #Police #Tinubu #UBA ©November 27th, 2025 ®November 27, 2025 2:01 pm President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has declared a state of emergency over growing insecurity in the West Africa country, and as such, banned open grazing, with a call on herders association to tell their members to surrender illegal weapons in their possession, and as well gave a matching order to the Department of State Services, DSS to recruit more forest guards to chase away terrorists and bandits from all forests in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also called on members of the National Assembly to review existing laws in Nigeria and give rooms for the establishment of state police. #OsazuwaAkonedoIsrael, Hezbollah Confirm Tabatabai Death, War May Resume Ahead Pope Visithttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/israel-hezbollah-confirm-tabatabai-death-war-may-resume-ahead-pope-visit/#Issues #Beirut #Israel #Lebanon #LeoXIV #Pope #US ©November 24th, 2025 ®November 24, 2025 9:01 pm There are concerns that a renewed war may broke out between Israel and Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon as Pope Leo XIV prepares to visit Türkiye and Lebanon beginning this week, from 27 November to 2 December 2025, which will be the first Apostolic Journey of Court Jails Nnamdi Kanu For Life Over ENDSARS Protest, Army Couple Killinghttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/court-jails-nnamdi-kanu-for-life-over-endsars-protest-army-couple-killing/#Law #Biafra #Ihiala #Kanu #Lagos #Nnamdi ©November 21st, 2025 ®November 21, 2025 9:48 pm Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, Nigeria Federal Capital Territory on Thursday convicted and sentenced Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to a passionate prison term of life imprisonment against the penalty of Death sentence he said he ought to have pronounced on the Biafra Republic agitation leader over the statements Mazi Nnamdi Kanu made on October 20, 2020 through Radio Biafra during the war like situation between the civilian population and Nigeria security operatives following series of reports that the Nigeria security operatives were shooting and killing innocent unarmed protesters, who were protesting against bad government and Police brutalities tagged Endsars protest, Justice Omotosho in his ruling, said, Nnamdi Kanu was responsible for the killing of 175 security operatives during the Endsars civil-military war like situation on October 20, 2020, and Justice Omotosho in his ruling, failed to state the numbers of civilians that were killed by Nigeria security operatives during the war like situation that apparently forced Nnamdi Kanu to start teaching the civilians on how to manufacture molotov cocktail also known as petrol bombs, urging them to go and meet welders to buy bullet proof doors from the welders to defend themselves and launched a retaliatory defensive attacks against the Nigeria security operatives who were accused of turning the peaceful protest into a barrage of gunfire, human rights violations and abuses, Justice Omotosho convicted Nnamdi Kanu on counts 4 and 5 over the Endsars protest and he described Nnamdi Kanu action during the violent-protest as an act of terrorism, on count one, Justice Omotosho convicted Nnamdi Kanu for an act of Preparatory to commit terrorism over statements made by Nnamdi Kanu in May 2021, Justice Omotosho in the ruling claimed and ruled that Nnamdi Kanu declared war against security operatives in the South East states without provocation, this statement by Justice Omotosho apparently made him looked like a biased person, because after Nigeria as a way to weaken the people of South East states and denied them the ability to be able to establish the Eastern Security Network, ESN to defend themselves against Boko Haram terrorists and expansionist foreign Fulani invaders from different countries like Mali, Gambia, Senegal, Nigerien Republic and Chad that were advancing from the Northern paterrorism, Adegboyega's statement maybe inline with the current high rate of attacks by terrorists advancing from the Northern Nigeria to the Southern part, kidnapping and killing people like never before, that aside, Justice Omotosho also ruled that Nnamdi Kanu was responsible for the killing of Ahmed Gulak, the former presidential aide who was killed on May 30th, 2021 in Owerri on his way to the airport after conducting election primary, according to Justice Omotosho, Nnamdi Kanu act of declaring sit at home to mark the 2021 Biafra Heroes day led to the killing of Ahmed Gulak, Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Tinubu Declares Emergency In Nigeria, Bans Open Grazing, Ok State Policehttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/tinubu-declares-emergency-in-nigeria-bans-open-grazing-ok-state-police/#Issues #army #Dss #Nigeria #Police #Tinubu #UBA ©November 27th, 2025 ®November 27, 2025 2:01 pm President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has declared a state of emergency over growing insecurity in the West Africa country, and as such, banned open grazing, with a call on herders association to tell their members to surrender illegal weapons in their possession, and as well gave a matching order to the Department of State Services, DSS to recruit more forest guards to chase away terrorists and bandits from all forests in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also called on members of the National Assembly to review existing laws in Nigeria and give rooms for the establishment of state police. #OsazuwaAkonedoIsrael, Hezbollah Confirm Tabatabai Death, War May Resume Ahead Pope Visithttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/israel-hezbollah-confirm-tabatabai-death-war-may-resume-ahead-pope-visit/#Issues #Beirut #Israel #Lebanon #LeoXIV #Pope #US ©November 24th, 2025 ®November 24, 2025 9:01 pm There are concerns that a renewed war may broke out between Israel and Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon as Pope Leo XIV prepares to visit Türkiye and Lebanon beginning this week, from 27 November to 2 December 2025, which will be the first Apostolic Journey of Court Jails Nnamdi Kanu For Life Over ENDSARS Protest, Army Couple Killinghttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/court-jails-nnamdi-kanu-for-life-over-endsars-protest-army-couple-killing/#Law #Biafra #Ihiala #Kanu #Lagos #Nnamdi ©November 21st, 2025 ®November 21, 2025 9:48 pm Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, Nigeria Federal Capital Territory on Thursday convicted and sentenced Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to a passionate prison term of life imprisonment against the penalty of Death sentence he said he ought to have pronounced on the Biafra Republic agitation leader over the statements Mazi Nnamdi Kanu made on October 20, 2020 through Radio Biafra during the war like situation between the civilian population and Nigeria security operatives following series of reports that the Nigeria security operatives were shooting and killing innocent unarmed protesters, who were protesting against bad government and Police brutalities tagged Endsars protest, Justice Omotosho in his ruling, said, Nnamdi Kanu was responsible for the killing of 175 security operatives during the Endsars civil-military war like situation on October 20, 2020, and Justice Omotosho in his ruling, failed to state the numbers of civilians that were killed by Nigeria security operatives during the war like situation that apparently forced Nnamdi Kanu to start teaching the civilians on how to manufacture molotov cocktail also known as petrol bombs, urging them to go and meet welders to buy bullet proof doors from the welders to defend themselves and launched a retaliatory defensive attacks against the Nigeria security operatives who were accused of turning the peaceful protest into a barrage of gunfire, human rights violations and abuses, Justice Omotosho convicted Nnamdi Kanu on counts 4 and 5 over the Endsars protest and he described Nnamdi Kanu action during the violent-protest as an act of terrorism, on count one, Justice Omotosho convicted Nnamdi Kanu for an act of Preparatory to commit terrorism over statements made by Nnamdi Kanu in May 2021, Justice Omotosho in the ruling claimed and ruled that Nnamdi Kanu declared war against security operatives in the South East states without provocation, this statement by Justice Omotosho apparently made him looked like a biased person, because after Nigeria as a way to weaken the people of South East states and denied them the ability to be able to establish the Eastern Security Network, ESN to defend themselves against Boko Haram terrorists and expansionist foreign Fulani invaders from different countries like Mali, Gambia, Senegal, Nigerien Republic and Chad that were advancing from the Northern paterrorism, Adegboyega's statement maybe inline with the current high rate of attacks by terrorists advancing from the Northern Nigeria to the Southern part, kidnapping and killing people like never before, that aside, Justice Omotosho also ruled that Nnamdi Kanu was responsible for the killing of Ahmed Gulak, the former presidential aide who was killed on May 30th, 2021 in Owerri on his way to the airport after conducting election primary, according to Justice Omotosho, Nnamdi Kanu act of declaring sit at home to mark the 2021 Biafra Heroes day led to the killing of Ahmed Gulak, Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Tinubu Declares Emergency In Nigeria, Bans Open Grazing, Ok State Policehttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/tinubu-declares-emergency-in-nigeria-bans-open-grazing-ok-state-police/#Issues #army #Dss #Nigeria #Police #Tinubu #UBA ©November 27th, 2025 ®November 27, 2025 2:01 pm President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has declared a state of emergency over growing insecurity in the West Africa country, and as such, banned open grazing, with a call on herders association to tell their members to surrender illegal weapons in their possession, and as well gave a matching order to the Department of State Services, DSS to recruit more forest guards to chase away terrorists and bandits from all forests in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also called on members of the National Assembly to review existing laws in Nigeria and give rooms for the establishment of state police. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Orientation and mobility (O&M) gives blind and low vision students the skills to travel safely, confidently, and independently—at home, at school, and beyond graduation. In this conversation hosted by State Services for the Blind (SSB), O&M specialists Jennifer Pelletier and Abdi Mumin, along with Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis, talk with parents, teachers, and students about what O&M really is: not just cane skills, but problem solving, confidence, and building a mental map of the world. They stress that independence is personal, but expectations should stay high—students can do more than many people assume when given chances to practice. Parents learn practical ways to support independence at home, from chores and finding dropped objects to letting kids lead routes on errands. The episode also highlights tools like tactile maps, campus visits, and Cane Quest, and explains how school-based O&M and SSB can work together to prepare students for college, work, and adult life. To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Full Transcript Thanks for listening!  

Wike Reckless Act Before Soldier Disrespectful To Tinubu - Ex COAS Burataihttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/wike-reckless-act-before-soldier-disrespectful-to-tinubu-ex-coas-buratai/#Nigerian Army #Abuja #Buratai #Navy #Wike ©November 12th, 2025 ®November 12, 2025 1:50 pm Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai has described the conduct and behaviour of a Nigeria serving Minister and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike before a serving Nigeria soldier in the Naval Force as reckless and thus insulted and disrespected the person and the office of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu after the Minister had a confrontation with the Naval officer with the service name, A.M Yerima at plot 1946, Gaduwa District, Abuja over ownership and development rights to a parcel of land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff, this, a careful study of some video footage made available online especially the video captured and published by Channels Television, apparently indicated that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike physically assaulted one of the Operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS that was seen protecting the Minister against a potential threat of armed soldier who was on a direct viewpoint with the Minister, the DSS officer proactively moved to give the armed soldier a close marking and chest up to the defence line with the armed soldier who was moving steps on a close range and direct viewpoint to the Minister, but, surprisingly, the Minister in a manner that looks very disrespectful and belittling, walked up to the DSS Officer and dragged him to leave the way, professionally, the DSS Operative angrily resisted Wike and said with a loud voice that he can't leave the defence line, that the armed soldier is being unprofessional with the way the armed soldier was standing on a direct viewpoint to the Minister, quickly, one of the combatant DSS officers from behind moved towards the armed soldier and pushed him off the defence line, thereafter, the situation became violently rowdy and was almost leading to a complete fight, even when the DSS Operatives formed a circle around the Minister to protect him, Nyesom Wike was seen trying to violate the DSS human shield in a manner as if he was going personally to confront one of  the armed soldiers, but the DSS officers ensured the Minister was denied the opportunity to endanger his own life and after the violent situation, all the armed soldiers moved backward while the DSS officers built a human defence wall against the armed soldiers completely, only the senior army officer who appeared not armed, was now in close contact with the Minister, and according to the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, Nyesom Wike action is a clear act that "present danger to national security” and "undermines the authority of the Commander-in-Chief and the integrity of the Armed Forces.” #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Conflicting Reports Over Death Toll In Tanzania Protest On Day 4https://osazuwaakonedo.news/conflicting-reports-over-death-toll-in-tanzania-protest-on-day-4/#Breaking News #Arusha #Chadema #DaresSalaam #Dodoma #Lissu #Mbeya #Mwanza #Suluhu #Tanzania ©November 1st, 2025 ®November 1, 2025 12:22 pm Reports on Saturday early morning in the Africa country of Tanzania, indicated that thousands of youths in the country have continued mass protest in the Tanzania capital city of Dodoma, also simultaneously in the country former capital city of Dar es Salaam which remains the country's largest city and its main economic hub, while streets in Mwanza, Mbeya, and Arusha have remained occupied by the aggrieved youths who the major opposition political party, Chadema claimed have been shot at, and over 700 of them have been killed by security operatives since the violent protest erupted in the country on Wednesday over the 2025 presidential election allegedly marred by corrupt practices, but, the Tanzania Foreign Ministry dismissed the claim, saying, the Tanzania government is not aware of any death recorded or any of the protesters killed, adding, the government has not used excessive force on the protesters, this, the United Nations, UN Human Rights Office stated on Friday that it has a credible report of at least 10 deaths recorded as a result of killing of protesters by the Tanzania security forces, and information from border communities between Tanzania and Kenya indicated that; on Thursday, October 30, in the afternoon, chaos broke out at the Namanga border checkpoint as Kenyan and Tanzanian youth threw stones at Tanzanian police, and the police responded with live ammunition and tear gas canisters, leading to a casualty of two people shot dead by police and two others, including a Kenyan police officer, were seriously injured, while violent protest continued across major cities in Tanzania, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Chama cha Mapinduzi, CCM political party was declared winner and the electoral body announced on Saturday early morning that the President secured a re-election figure of 97.66% of the votes, which, represents 31,913,866 ballots, in the October 29, 2025 controversial presidential election boycotted by the country main opposition political party, Chadema, which the Chadema political party did by not signing the electoral code of conduct after the set deadline and the Tanzania electoral body subsequently banned the Chadema political party from participating in the general election and all by-elections till 2030, and this, is in addition to the  disqualifications of challengers like Tundu Lissu of Chadema political party, the main opposition leader who remains detained since April 2025 and other serious challenger, Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, was disqualified on technicalities. #OsazuwaAkonedoWhy Nnamdi Kanu Refuses To Enter Defence - Kingsley Kanunta Kanuhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/why-nnamdi-kanu-refuses-to-enter-defence-barr-aloy-ejimakor/#Law #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi ©November 1st, 2025 ®November 1, 2025 6:45 am Kingsley Kanunta Kanu, the younger brother to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in an  X post as reshared by Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the coordinating lawyer for the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has given reasons why his elder brother had continued to defend himself on the ground of no case submission, saying, the Federal Government of Nigeria who made the accusations and filed the terrorism charges against the Biafra Leader has not been able to pinpoint any aspect of the Nigeria Laws that should warrant his brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to enter defence, citing several court rulings that invalidated the Federal Government accusations against the detained Biafra leader, this, Kingsley Kanunta Kanu stated in reaction to the commentary of Doctor Sam Amadi, published on ThisDay newspaper, after the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday, abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja. #OsazuwaAkonedoTinubu Revises Self On Pardons Earlier Granted To Murderers, Kidnappershttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/tinubu-revises-self-on-pardons-earlier-granted-to-murderers-kidnappers/#Law #Nwike #Oniarah #Ozehekome #Sanda #Tinubu ©October 30th, 2025 ®OPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has issued a revised policy actions over the 2025 Presidential Pardons he had earlier granted to 175 persons, some of whom were convicted murderers, deadly kidnappers; which included Maryam Sanda, who had spent barely six years and eight months at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre after she was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging over the killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello in Abuja who she stabbed three times repeatedly, this, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his earlier presidential pardon granted to the 37 years old convicted and condemned murderer, Maryam Sanda, had asked her to go home free because of her children, but, following public outcry and condemnation, in the revised version of the presidential pardons signed into law on October 21, 2025 and made available to the public by the Presidency on Wednesday October 29, 2025, President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to 12 years imprisonment, although, the Presidency never mentioned the total numbers of people granted the presidential pardons, but, the list of beneficiaries made available by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, indicated that only 86 persons were granted the presidential pardons, and Maryam Sanda apparently spelt as Maryam Sunda was last on the list, and the names of earlier beneficiaries like Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, were not seen in the revised edition of the list, maybe, the names were omitted due to excessive public outcry that Prosper Kelvin Oniarah was a convicted notorious high profile gang leader of a deadly kidnapping group that were widely stated to be responsible for the kidnapping and subsequent killing of a former Anambra State Deputy Governor, Chudi Nwike, kidnapping of a prominent legal practitioner, Mike Ozhekome on August 24th 2013 along Benin-Auchi road and during the kidnapping operation, the gunmen ambushed and killed four police officers including the Divisional Police Officer, DPO of Ehor Division who led the police team in an attempt to rescue Mike Ozhekome, outside that, the 44 years old Oniarah was also stated to be responsible for the kidnapping of a Judge in the Edo State Judiciary; a top female official of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS; among other several members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC and security agents and Oniarah was also stated to carry out several armed robberies and kidnap operations in Delta, Edo, Rivers and Anambra States, maintaining operational base and detention camps in Warri and Kokori Community in Delta State, Ugbokolo Community in Benue State, Benin City in Edo State, and Aba in Abia State, that on 18th September, 2013, Oniarah issued a 60-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to release some of his boys who were arrested by the Department of State Services, DSS or he would wreak havoc on innocent Nigerian citizens, and, on 25th September, 2013, a combined security team of the Nigerian Army and DSS operatives arrested Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, a convicted notorious terrorist, kidnap kingpin and armed robber, who had been on the wanted list of the security agencies, and he was subsequently sentenced to 20 years imprisonment which he had spent 12 years in prison before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had initially made an attempt to release him. #OsazuwaAkonedoKanu Lawyers Right To Join Protest, Presidency Berated, Aloy In Kuje Prisonhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/kanu-lawyers-right-to-join-protest-presidency-berated-aloy-in-kuje-prison/#Law #Biafra #Ejimakor #Kanu #Nnamdi #Onanuga #Sowore #Uwoghiren ©October 21st, 2025 ®October 21, 2025 8:51 pm Human Rights lawyer, Barrister Jefferson Uwoghiren has condemned and berated the Federal Government of Nigeria under the Presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for arresting, detaining and remanding to Kuje Prison, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the lawyer to the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu after Aloy Ejimakor was seen joining the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest in Abuja on Monday, according to the Human rights lawyer who have remarkable experience in fighting against police extra judicial killing; "One notable exception, is that a lawyer enjoys less freedom than others to speak publicly about his or her own cases, but not when it involves solidarity marches and protests for his client, the conducts of lawyers and the limit of their professional duties is the kennel of the alarming accusation by the Presidency yesterday against the lawyer of Mr Nnamdi Kanu and his subsequent arrest by the police for his presence at a scene in Abuja, where protesters were marching peacefully demanding the release of Mr Kanu; the statement from the Presidency and the police action is obviously a culmination of undisguised hostility towards the lawyer for having the temerity to represent a person the government have since prosecuted and convicted in the court of public opinions, ordinarily, a lawyer's bail application for alleged crime of illegal protest, won't be refused, the refusal is concerning and turning a simple matter into a political case of vendetta and persecution", Bayo Onanuga; the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy had on Monday tweeted while the FreeNnamdiKanu protest was ongoing, that; "I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu's lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore, I wonder what Mr Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest, as a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Conflicting Reports Over Death Toll In Tanzania Protest On Day 4https://osazuwaakonedo.news/conflicting-reports-over-death-toll-in-tanzania-protest-on-day-4/#Breaking News #Arusha #Chadema #DaresSalaam #Dodoma #Lissu #Mbeya #Mwanza #Suluhu #Tanzania ©November 1st, 2025 ®November 1, 2025 12:22 pm Reports on Saturday early morning in the Africa country of Tanzania, indicated that thousands of youths in the country have continued mass protest in the Tanzania capital city of Dodoma, also simultaneously in the country former capital city of Dar es Salaam which remains the country's largest city and its main economic hub, while streets in Mwanza, Mbeya, and Arusha have remained occupied by the aggrieved youths who the major opposition political party, Chadema claimed have been shot at, and over 700 of them have been killed by security operatives since the violent protest erupted in the country on Wednesday over the 2025 presidential election allegedly marred by corrupt practices, but, the Tanzania Foreign Ministry dismissed the claim, saying, the Tanzania government is not aware of any death recorded or any of the protesters killed, adding, the government has not used excessive force on the protesters, this, the United Nations, UN Human Rights Office stated on Friday that it has a credible report of at least 10 deaths recorded as a result of killing of protesters by the Tanzania security forces, and information from border communities between Tanzania and Kenya indicated that; on Thursday, October 30, in the afternoon, chaos broke out at the Namanga border checkpoint as Kenyan and Tanzanian youth threw stones at Tanzanian police, and the police responded with live ammunition and tear gas canisters, leading to a casualty of two people shot dead by police and two others, including a Kenyan police officer, were seriously injured, while violent protest continued across major cities in Tanzania, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Chama cha Mapinduzi, CCM political party was declared winner and the electoral body announced on Saturday early morning that the President secured a re-election figure of 97.66% of the votes, which, represents 31,913,866 ballots, in the October 29, 2025 controversial presidential election boycotted by the country main opposition political party, Chadema, which the Chadema political party did by not signing the electoral code of conduct after the set deadline and the Tanzania electoral body subsequently banned the Chadema political party from participating in the general election and all by-elections till 2030, and this, is in addition to the  disqualifications of challengers like Tundu Lissu of Chadema political party, the main opposition leader who remains detained since April 2025 and other serious challenger, Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, was disqualified on technicalities. #OsazuwaAkonedoWhy Nnamdi Kanu Refuses To Enter Defence - Kingsley Kanunta Kanuhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/why-nnamdi-kanu-refuses-to-enter-defence-barr-aloy-ejimakor/#Law #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi ©November 1st, 2025 ®November 1, 2025 6:45 am Kingsley Kanunta Kanu, the younger brother to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in an  X post as reshared by Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the coordinating lawyer for the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has given reasons why his elder brother had continued to defend himself on the ground of no case submission, saying, the Federal Government of Nigeria who made the accusations and filed the terrorism charges against the Biafra Leader has not been able to pinpoint any aspect of the Nigeria Laws that should warrant his brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to enter defence, citing several court rulings that invalidated the Federal Government accusations against the detained Biafra leader, this, Kingsley Kanunta Kanu stated in reaction to the commentary of Doctor Sam Amadi, published on ThisDay newspaper, after the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday, abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja. #OsazuwaAkonedoTinubu Revises Self On Pardons Earlier Granted To Murderers, Kidnappershttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/tinubu-revises-self-on-pardons-earlier-granted-to-murderers-kidnappers/#Law #Nwike #Oniarah #Ozehekome #Sanda #Tinubu ©October 30th, 2025 ®OPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has issued a revised policy actions over the 2025 Presidential Pardons he had earlier granted to 175 persons, some of whom were convicted murderers, deadly kidnappers; which included Maryam Sanda, who had spent barely six years and eight months at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre after she was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging over the killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello in Abuja who she stabbed three times repeatedly, this, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his earlier presidential pardon granted to the 37 years old convicted and condemned murderer, Maryam Sanda, had asked her to go home free because of her children, but, following public outcry and condemnation, in the revised version of the presidential pardons signed into law on October 21, 2025 and made available to the public by the Presidency on Wednesday October 29, 2025, President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to 12 years imprisonment, although, the Presidency never mentioned the total numbers of people granted the presidential pardons, but, the list of beneficiaries made available by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, indicated that only 86 persons were granted the presidential pardons, and Maryam Sanda apparently spelt as Maryam Sunda was last on the list, and the names of earlier beneficiaries like Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, were not seen in the revised edition of the list, maybe, the names were omitted due to excessive public outcry that Prosper Kelvin Oniarah was a convicted notorious high profile gang leader of a deadly kidnapping group that were widely stated to be responsible for the kidnapping and subsequent killing of a former Anambra State Deputy Governor, Chudi Nwike, kidnapping of a prominent legal practitioner, Mike Ozhekome on August 24th 2013 along Benin-Auchi road and during the kidnapping operation, the gunmen ambushed and killed four police officers including the Divisional Police Officer, DPO of Ehor Division who led the police team in an attempt to rescue Mike Ozhekome, outside that, the 44 years old Oniarah was also stated to be responsible for the kidnapping of a Judge in the Edo State Judiciary; a top female official of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS; among other several members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC and security agents and Oniarah was also stated to carry out several armed robberies and kidnap operations in Delta, Edo, Rivers and Anambra States, maintaining operational base and detention camps in Warri and Kokori Community in Delta State, Ugbokolo Community in Benue State, Benin City in Edo State, and Aba in Abia State, that on 18th September, 2013, Oniarah issued a 60-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to release some of his boys who were arrested by the Department of State Services, DSS or he would wreak havoc on innocent Nigerian citizens, and, on 25th September, 2013, a combined security team of the Nigerian Army and DSS operatives arrested Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, a convicted notorious terrorist, kidnap kingpin and armed robber, who had been on the wanted list of the security agencies, and he was subsequently sentenced to 20 years imprisonment which he had spent 12 years in prison before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had initially made an attempt to release him. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

From the Minnesota State Capitol to the halls of the Department of Transportation, White Cane Day 2025 shined a light on independence, confidence, and community. Jeff Thompson takes listeners inside a vibrant gathering of blind athletes, adventurers, and advocates who prove that anything is possible when you step out and give it a try. From sailing the waves with Twin Cities Blind Sailing to hitting the ice with the Minnesota Wild Blind Hockey Team, throwing darts, bowling, and even playing beep baseball—there's truly something for everyone. These programs aren't just sports; they're pathways to connection, growth, and fun. So whether you've been curious about adaptive recreation or just want to meet others who share your spirit of adventure, this episode invites you to test the waters—because independence starts with taking that first step.   Useful Links: Twin Cities Blind Sailing U.S. Blind Sailing Association Minnesota Wild Blind Hockey Twin Cities Blind Audio Dart League Minnesota Millers Beep Baseball Team Minnesota Millers Email info@mnmillers.org   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:   thanks for listening!  

Tinubu Revises Self On Pardons Earlier Granted To Murderers, Kidnappershttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/tinubu-revises-self-on-pardons-earlier-granted-to-murderers-kidnappers/#Law #Nwike #Oniarah #Ozehekome #Sanda #Tinubu ©October 30th, 2025 ®OPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has issued a revised policy actions over the 2025 Presidential Pardons he had earlier granted to 175 persons, some of whom were convicted murderers, deadly kidnappers; which included Maryam Sanda, who had spent barely six years and eight months at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre after she was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging over the killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello in Abuja who she stabbed three times repeatedly, this, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his earlier presidential pardon granted to the 37 years old convicted and condemned murderer, Maryam Sanda, had asked her to go home free because of her children, but, following public outcry and condemnation, in the revised version of the presidential pardons signed into law on October 21, 2025 and made available to the public by the Presidency on Wednesday October 29, 2025, President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to 12 years imprisonment, although, the Presidency never mentioned the total numbers of people granted the presidential pardons, but, the list of beneficiaries made available by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, indicated that only 86 persons were granted the presidential pardons, and Maryam Sanda apparently spelt as Maryam Sunda was last on the list, and the names of earlier beneficiaries like Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, were not seen in the revised edition of the list, maybe, the names were omitted due to excessive public outcry that Prosper Kelvin Oniarah was a convicted notorious high profile gang leader of a deadly kidnapping group that were widely stated to be responsible for the kidnapping and subsequent killing of a former Anambra State Deputy Governor, Chudi Nwike, kidnapping of a prominent legal practitioner, Mike Ozhekome on August 24th 2013 along Benin-Auchi road and during the kidnapping operation, the gunmen ambushed and killed four police officers including the Divisional Police Officer, DPO of Ehor Division who led the police team in an attempt to rescue Mike Ozhekome, outside that, the 44 years old Oniarah was also stated to be responsible for the kidnapping of a Judge in the Edo State Judiciary; a top female official of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS; among other several members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC and security agents and Oniarah was also stated to carry out several armed robberies and kidnap operations in Delta, Edo, Rivers and Anambra States, maintaining operational base and detention camps in Warri and Kokori Community in Delta State, Ugbokolo Community in Benue State, Benin City in Edo State, and Aba in Abia State, that on 18th September, 2013, Oniarah issued a 60-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to release some of his boys who were arrested by the Department of State Services, DSS or he would wreak havoc on innocent Nigerian citizens, and, on 25th September, 2013, a combined security team of the Nigerian Army and DSS operatives arrested Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, a convicted notorious terrorist, kidnap kingpin and armed robber, who had been on the wanted list of the security agencies, and he was subsequently sentenced to 20 years imprisonment which he had spent 12 years in prison before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had initially made an attempt to release him. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

White Cane Day 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol was a celebration of pride, freedom, and possibility. Leaders, students, families, and blind, low vision, and deafblind Minnesotans gathered to affirm a simple truth: the white cane is not just a mobility tool — it is dignity, safety, and independence. Speakers honored the history of White Cane Safety Day, first recognized nationally in 1964, and reminded Minnesota that accessibility is a responsibility we all share. Youth and adults stood side by side to read the Governor's proclamation declaring October 15, 2025 White Cane Safety Awareness Day in Minnesota, lifting up the right of every person to travel, work, learn, and live fully. Again and again the message was clear: this community is strong, joyful, and on the move. The white cane is confidence. It is opportunity. It is the key to adventure, employment, and everyday life — and it belongs in every space Minnesotans belong.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript   thanks for Listening!  

Kanu Lawyers Right To Join Protest, Presidency Berated, Aloy In Kuje Prisonhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/kanu-lawyers-right-to-join-protest-presidency-berated-aloy-in-kuje-prison/#Law #Biafra #Ejimakor #Kanu #Nnamdi #Onanuga #Sowore #Uwoghiren ©October 21st, 2025 ®October 21, 2025 8:51 pm Human Rights lawyer, Barrister Jefferson Uwoghiren has condemned and berated the Federal Government of Nigeria under the Presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for arresting, detaining and remanding to Kuje Prison, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the lawyer to the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu after Aloy Ejimakor was seen joining the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest in Abuja on Monday, according to the Human rights lawyer who have remarkable experience in fighting against police extra judicial killing; "One notable exception, is that a lawyer enjoys less freedom than others to speak publicly about his or her own cases, but not when it involves solidarity marches and protests for his client, the conducts of lawyers and the limit of their professional duties is the kennel of the alarming accusation by the Presidency yesterday against the lawyer of Mr Nnamdi Kanu and his subsequent arrest by the police for his presence at a scene in Abuja, where protesters were marching peacefully demanding the release of Mr Kanu; the statement from the Presidency and the police action is obviously a culmination of undisguised hostility towards the lawyer for having the temerity to represent a person the government have since prosecuted and convicted in the court of public opinions, ordinarily, a lawyer's bail application for alleged crime of illegal protest, won't be refused, the refusal is concerning and turning a simple matter into a political case of vendetta and persecution", Bayo Onanuga; the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy had on Monday tweeted while the FreeNnamdiKanu protest was ongoing, that; "I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu's lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore, I wonder what Mr Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest, as a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court, the prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu, rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist, to influence the process", meanwhile, few hours ago, the organiser of the protest and the founder of SaharaReporters news media, Omoyele Sowore stated via his social media accounts that; "We have been informed that plans are allegedly in place at Kuje prison to harm Nnamdi Kanu's younger brother, Fineboy and Aloy Ejimakor, his Special Counsel, inside Kuje prison by special warders assigned by the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu". #OsazuwaAkonedoPolice Warns Hijackers, On Restricted Areas During Free Nnamdi Kanu Protesthttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/police-warns-hijackers-on-restricted-areas-during-free-nnamdi-kanu-protest/#Issues #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi #Police #Sowore ©October 20th, 2025 ®October 20, 2025 8:31 am Nigeria Police Force, NPF under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun who is currently in the United States, US, attending the International Association of Chiefs of Police, IACP Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado, USA, alongside other senior police officers has warned troublemakers to resist the temptation of hijacking the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest slated to hold today across the West Africa country by the organisers and other group of Nigerians to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, also, the NPF reminded the organisers and the protesters to respect the Federal High Court order that restricted them from staging the protest in certain areas in Abuja, such areas which included Aso Rock Villa and its environs, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way, while assuring the protesters of protection. #OsazuwaAkonedoCourt Didn't Stop Protest, Nnamdi Kanu So Sick, We Must FreeHimNow - Soworehttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/court-didnt-stop-protest-nnamdi-kanu-so-sick-we-must-freehimnow-sowore/#Issues #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi #Sowore ©October 18th, 2025 ®October 18, 2025 2:32 pmFounder of SaharaReporters news media and the organizer of the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest, Omoyele Sowore has refuted and debunked the reports circulating in some sections of the media that the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has stopped the upcoming Monday October 20th mass protest organized to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, saying, the media report is false and a calculated attempt to distract members of the public from coming out to join the protest, adding, Nnamdi Kanu is so sick that the people must come out now to set him free, the sickness as alleged by Omoyele Sowore apparently challenged the medical report issued by the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA who had submitted its panel report before the trial Court on Thursday that Nnamdi Kanu is fit to face trial, that, the sickness is not life threatening, but, Punch Newspaper reporter at the court on Thursday reported that it was the Department of State Services, DSS lawyer, who happened to be one of the parties in the dispute that presented the NMA medical report before the court, we are yet to ascertain the independency, fairness, objectivity, accuracy and transparency of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA in conducting the medical examination. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Kanu Lawyers Right To Join Protest, Presidency Berated, Aloy In Kuje Prisonhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/kanu-lawyers-right-to-join-protest-presidency-berated-aloy-in-kuje-prison/#Law #Biafra #Ejimakor #Kanu #Nnamdi #Onanuga #Sowore #Uwoghiren ©October 21st, 2025 ®October 21, 2025 8:51 pm Human Rights lawyer, Barrister Jefferson Uwoghiren has condemned and berated the Federal Government of Nigeria under the Presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for arresting, detaining and remanding to Kuje Prison, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the lawyer to the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu after Aloy Ejimakor was seen joining the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest in Abuja on Monday, according to the Human rights lawyer who have remarkable experience in fighting against police extra judicial killing; "One notable exception, is that a lawyer enjoys less freedom than others to speak publicly about his or her own cases, but not when it involves solidarity marches and protests for his client, the conducts of lawyers and the limit of their professional duties is the kennel of the alarming accusation by the Presidency yesterday against the lawyer of Mr Nnamdi Kanu and his subsequent arrest by the police for his presence at a scene in Abuja, where protesters were marching peacefully demanding the release of Mr Kanu; the statement from the Presidency and the police action is obviously a culmination of undisguised hostility towards the lawyer for having the temerity to represent a person the government have since prosecuted and convicted in the court of public opinions, ordinarily, a lawyer's bail application for alleged crime of illegal protest, won't be refused, the refusal is concerning and turning a simple matter into a political case of vendetta and persecution", Bayo Onanuga; the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy had on Monday tweeted while the FreeNnamdiKanu protest was ongoing, that; "I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu's lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore, I wonder what Mr Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest, as a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court, the prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu, rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist, to influence the process", meanwhile, few hours ago, the organiser of the protest and the founder of SaharaReporters news media, Omoyele Sowore stated via his social media accounts that; "We have been informed that plans are allegedly in place at Kuje prison to harm Nnamdi Kanu's younger brother, Fineboy and Aloy Ejimakor, his Special Counsel, inside Kuje prison by special warders assigned by the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu". #OsazuwaAkonedoPolice Warns Hijackers, On Restricted Areas During Free Nnamdi Kanu Protesthttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/police-warns-hijackers-on-restricted-areas-during-free-nnamdi-kanu-protest/#Issues #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi #Police #Sowore ©October 20th, 2025 ®October 20, 2025 8:31 am Nigeria Police Force, NPF under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun who is currently in the United States, US, attending the International Association of Chiefs of Police, IACP Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado, USA, alongside other senior police officers has warned troublemakers to resist the temptation of hijacking the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest slated to hold today across the West Africa country by the organisers and other group of Nigerians to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, also, the NPF reminded the organisers and the protesters to respect the Federal High Court order that restricted them from staging the protest in certain areas in Abuja, such areas which included Aso Rock Villa and its environs, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way, while assuring the protesters of protection. #OsazuwaAkonedoCourt Didn't Stop Protest, Nnamdi Kanu So Sick, We Must FreeHimNow - Soworehttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/court-didnt-stop-protest-nnamdi-kanu-so-sick-we-must-freehimnow-sowore/#Issues #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi #Sowore ©October 18th, 2025 ®October 18, 2025 2:32 pmFounder of SaharaReporters news media and the organizer of the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest, Omoyele Sowore has refuted and debunked the reports circulating in some sections of the media that the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has stopped the upcoming Monday October 20th mass protest organized to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, saying, the media report is false and a calculated attempt to distract members of the public from coming out to join the protest, adding, Nnamdi Kanu is so sick that the people must come out now to set him free, the sickness as alleged by Omoyele Sowore apparently challenged the medical report issued by the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA who had submitted its panel report before the trial Court on Thursday that Nnamdi Kanu is fit to face trial, that, the sickness is not life threatening, but, Punch Newspaper reporter at the court on Thursday reported that it was the Department of State Services, DSS lawyer, who happened to be one of the parties in the dispute that presented the NMA medical report before the court, we are yet to ascertain the independency, fairness, objectivity, accuracy and transparency of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA in conducting the medical examination. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

This parent-focused webinar demystifies benefits so you can plan with confidence. Benefits Navigator Marcy LaCroix explains how SSI and SSDI work, why “logic” often feels missing, and how to use work incentives so your teen can try jobs without losing critical supports. You'll hear when and how to apply, what documentation Social Security looks for, and why the age 18 redetermination matters. Marcy clarifies the difference between income limits and asset limits, how living arrangements affect SSI, and when Medicare and Medical Assistance can work alongside employer insurance. She also covers student-friendly supports like the student earned income exclusion, plus paths to keep eligibility if earnings rise. Expect practical guidance on reporting wages, avoiding overpayments, and handling denials and appeals. Throughout, SSB's Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis underscores that work is possible, help is available, and you're not alone. Parents leave with next steps, trusted resources, and real-world answers.   Links mentioned in the episode: Disability Hub DB101   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript    Thanks for listening!

Adventure, laughter, and teamwork filled the day as 18 students who are blind or low vision joined State Services for the Blind and Wilderness Inquiry for a canoe trip on the Mississippi River. For many, it was their first time on the water, but with guidance, encouragement, and life-long memories being made, students and parents alike built confidence and new friendships. Alongside paddling, they shared stories, spotted eagles, and even braved a downpour together—proof that nothing could dampen their spirits.   This canoe trip is just one of many activities SSB offers. From camping and snowshoeing to peer meetups, picnics, and cooking classes, these events help students grow independence, build connections, and explore the outdoors in safe and exciting ways. Parents gain peace of mind knowing their children are supported while discovering new skills and friendships. Opportunities like this show students they can live, work, and succeed while embracing adventure.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Links of interests: The Spectacle Newsletter Youth Services at SSB   Full Transcript:   Thanks for listening!  

The Apex Program is opening doors to careers in cybersecurity for blind and visually impaired students across the country. With over 750,000 unfilled cybersecurity jobs, this program offers a life-changing opportunity. In just 12 weeks of accessible online training, students can earn Network+ and Security+ certifications that employers value more than a college degree. Designed by David Mayne of Novacoast and championed by Dr. Kirk Adams, the Apex Program partners with vocational rehabilitation agencies in more than 20 states. Students gain hands-on training, mentoring, and job placement support, with many securing remote positions that provide both financial stability and professional growth. This program isn't about just finding a job—it's about building a career path in an exciting and growing field. If you're ready to step into a future with real opportunity, the Apex Program may be your key to success.   Check out the documentaries mentioned in the episode.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Thanks for listening!   Full Transcript  

In this Blind Abilities podcast, Jeff Thompson speaks with Laila Nachar, the Multiple Systems and Pathways Navigator at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Laila's new role is all about helping blind and visually impaired students, ages 14 to 21, prepare for their futures by focusing on pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS). She works alongside families, schools, and counselors to ensure students explore careers, gain real-world work experiences, and most importantly develop self-advocacy skills that will last a lifetime.   Laila emphasizes that every student's journey is unique, and her job is to keep the focus on their dreams, not just family expectations. Through job exploration, work-based learning, and advocacy training, she helps students build confidence, discover true interests, and map out meaningful goals. Parents also gain valuable resources to support informed choices. This episode highlights a powerful partnership that empowers youth to take charge of their own future with confidence and independence.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

Envision's Level Up program is more than a summer camp—it's a launching pad for blind and visually impaired students stepping into independence, college, and careers. Since 2006, Level Up has combined skill-building with hands-on experiences that prepare students for life beyond high school. From technology training to culinary arts, engineering, health careers, and team-building, every activity is designed to spark curiosity and confidence. Students live in college dorms, gaining valuable independence while connecting with peers who truly understand their journey. Parents and teachers see firsthand how the program strengthens self-advocacy, resilience, and readiness for the future. With mentorship from successful blind professionals and guidance on career and college pathways, students leave empowered to connect, engage, and act on their dreams. Whether it's their first year or a return visit, Level Up helps each student discover new strengths, friendships, and opportunities to thrive.   Be sure to check out the video mentioned in this episode and to find out more about Level Up and what Envision has to offer, check them out on the web at Envision Level Up.   Other Podcasts of interests:   From Confidence to Career: Explore Summer with the LEAP Program   Come Sail Away or Kick Into Confidence: Summer Camps That Empower at Lighthouse Center for Vital Living   From Classroom to Career: Vanward Consulting is Reshaping How Blind and Low Vision Youth Prepare for College, Careers, and Life   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

Buckle up for a mid-summer check-in with Peer Ambassadors Amy and Maddy as they reflect on the adventures, growth, and unexpected moments that shaped their summer—and look ahead to the college road just around the bend. From leading mock interviews and connecting with students through Zoom sessions, to hiking trails with all-terrain canes and navigating dorm shopping trips, these two share candid stories from the driver's seat of transition. With insight into disability services, professor prep, campus navigation, and finding your people, this episode is like a GPS for blind and visually impaired students getting ready for their own journey into college and careers. Whether you're paddling through new experiences or pulling over to re-check your route, Amy and Maddy prove that with the right support and mindset, you're never traveling alone. It's mid-summer, the engine's still running, and the next sign says: College Ahead.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript    

Get ready to explore, experiment, and own the kitchen! In this exciting episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson visits the Ready, Set, Prep program at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota—a hands-on class designed for blind and visually impaired students to learn cooking and life skills in a fully accessible kitchen. From learning how to shred chicken, use the oven, or master kitchen gadgets like garlic presses and rice cookers, students are not only building skills but gaining confidence, independence, and community. Led by rehabilitation teacher Kia Sadler and Pre-ETS counselor Kate Larson, the program is about more than food—it's about teamwork, creativity, and realizing that you can take the lead in your own kitchen. Hear from students who share their favorite recipes, learning moments, and how they're already impressing their families at home. This is where blind youth cook up confidence—one recipe at a time!   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

Ever wonder how a book becomes Braille? Or how an employee manual turns into an audio file? The students of the Summer Transition Program (STP) at the University of St. Thomas got to see it all firsthand! During their visit to State Services for the Blind's Communication Center, students explored the magic behind accessible formats—meeting the tech wizards who make it happen and learning about assistive tools that could power their future. They heard about the  recording booths, checked out  the Braille department, and even learned how Radio Talking Book delivers news and magazines 24/7. Oh, and there was plenty of popcorn! With mock interviews, peer mentors, and chances to ask all the questions, it was a day packed with fun, learning, and mind-opening moments. For blind and low vision students ready to take on college, careers, and more, this behind-the-scenes adventure was a taste of what's possible—with the right tools and support.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript Thanks for listening!  

Get ready to LEAP into summer with Learn, Earn, and Prosper! This virtual program is made just for blind and visually impaired students ages 14–21 who want to gain real job skills, build independence, and make lifelong friends—without even leaving home! Led by Hannah Peach, LEAP offers paid work experiences, career-readiness workshops, mentorship from blind professionals, and fun projects like making websites or interviewing people. You'll build confidence, sharpen your soft skills, and discover what's possible for your future. Want to boost your resume and meet cool people? LEAP is your launchpad to success! Find out more about the LEAP Summer Program.   To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

The Cybercrime Wire, hosted by Scott Schober, provides boardroom and C-suite executives, CIOs, CSOs, CISOs, IT executives and cybersecurity professionals with a breaking news story we're following. If there's a cyberattack, hack, or data breach you should know about, then we're on it. Listen to the podcast daily and hear it every hour on WCYB. The Cybercrime Wire is brought to you Cybercrime Magazine, Page ONE for Cybersecurity at https://cybercrimemagazine.com. • For more breaking news, visit https://cybercrimewire.com

Get ready for an unforgettable summer with the Lighthouse Center for Vital Living in Duluth, Minnesota! Designed for students ages 14–21 who are blind or visually impaired, these week-long camps combine fun with real-world skill-building. Whether you're navigating a sailboat on Lake Superior or kicking into confidence with Taekwondo, each day is packed with activities that boost independence, orientation and mobility, daily living skills, and self-confidence. From cooking your meals to traveling the city, you'll grow your capabilities, connect with peers, and discover just how far you can go. It's more than camp—it's preparation for life, with a twist of adventure! Check out Lighthouse Center for Vital Living on the web. and ask your counselor about the summer programs. To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

Founded by Gary Horton and joined by technical specialist Bahz, Vanward Consulting offers immersive, skill-building programs like *Lean In* and *Lean In Prep*. These initiatives go beyond job training—empowering students through entrepreneurship, real-world work experience, mentorship, and confidence-building “life work” that lasts well beyond the classroom. With a focus on virtual accessibility, teamwork, and practical tech fluency, Vanward Consulting helps students discover their strengths, build professional networks, and shape their futures with purpose and resilience. It's a hands-on launchpad to independence, inclusion, and impact.   Here are the links we mentioned during the show: Information about the Lean In! program:   Lean In! Prep program details:     The Lean In! Prep Store:     College tour Interest Form:     Full Transcript:   To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.  

We're celebrating a major milestone with the return of our very first guests: Kristen Mackey, Director of Arizona Combined, and Natasha Jerde, Director of Minnesota Blind. As Vocational Rehabilitation leaders navigate rising demands, shifting funding, and major structural change, Kristen and Natasha join us again to reflect on the post-pandemic landscape—and how it's testing directors like never before. From managing centralized services to sustaining staffing under fiscal strain, they share the real-world challenges that keep them up at night—and the strategies they're using to adapt. With transparency, persistence, and a mission-first mindset, these leaders dive into: ·       Navigating state and federal priorities ·       Responding to workforce volatility ·       Staying connected to data and purpose Their insights are a must-listen for anyone leading in today's VR environment. Tune in and be inspired to lead with clarity and resilience.   Listen Here   Full Transcript:   Natasha: Our program income is significantly dropping. The inflation, the cost of services. We've had four and a half and 5.5% salary increases with no additional state appropriations. So all of these things together keep me up every single night.   Kristen: We want job placements, we want employment, we want independence. If somebody's saying increase your job placements, fine, we can do that. It's how do we then take what they're giving us and make it not be a distraction, and we can mold to the thing that they want, but still do it at the base level.   {Music} Intro Voice: Manager Minute brought to you by the VRTAC for Quality Management, Conversations powered by VR, one manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host Carol Pankow.   Carol: Well, welcome to the manager minute. Joining me in the studio today is Kristen Mackey, director of Arizona Combined, and Natasha Jurdi, director of Minnesota Blinds. So how are things going in Minnesota, Natasha?   Natasha: I think the Minnesota word for today is going to be interesting. It's interesting. How about I leave it at that and I'll talk a little bit more as we dive into the questions.   Carol: Awesome. That is interesting. I want to know about that. How about you Kristen? How's it going in Arizona?   Kristen: You know what? I think I might steal Natasha's word. There's so much happening. We're trying to keep managing and keep abreast of all of the changes that come out on the news and everywhere, trying to keep centered and just keep doing what we do to get the work done. It's been a lot of fun.   Carol: Well, I couldn't think of two better people to bring on because this is super exciting. This is actually our 50th episode of The Manager Minute, and I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate the milestone than by bringing back my two incredible guests from episode number one in May four years ago. It's so crazy. And back then I just laughed. We were diving into the world of post-pandemic VR. What's it gonna look like? How are we going to navigate all these changes? You guys were working on things like electronic signatures and how you equipped your staff, you know, to work remotely and all of that. So a lot has changed since those early days, and I'm excited to catch up with you both to see how far that you've all come. So just reflecting back to my time as a director, I remember many a sleepless night and Natasha can attest to that. I remember coming to a meeting like, I don't sleep at night and I keep a pad of paper by my bed. And it was so funny. I heard a director tell me they did the same thing. This was a month or so ago. They were like, you know, I keep this pad of paper by my bed because, you know, we were worried about so many things. There was WIOA implementation back then, and we had a less than stellar monitoring report and a financial picture that was super tough and it just wasn't very pretty. And so I kept that notepad because in the middle of the night was always my best thinking I'd wake up, I'm like, oh, I gotta write this down. And so I can remember in the morning. So I know now, four years later, from talking to you all last on the podcast, the pendulum has certainly swung in a new direction, and I'm really eager to see how things have evolved for the both of you. You know, like what's changed, what's stayed the same, and what lessons have you learned? So let's dive in. So, Natasha, will you kick us off and just give our listeners a little snapshot about yourself and the agency that you lead?   Natasha: Sure. So I have worked at State services for the blind since I was a baby intern 2008. I have been a deaf blind counselor, a supervisor, the director of our policy and program administration, and I became the director in August 2019. Our agency, we have about 140 staff across the state. We have a Voc Rehab program, an older blind program, our Randolph-sheppard program. But we also have a communication center where we do braille audio transcription and have a radio reading service. So we have a little bit of everything at State Services for the blind. We've grown a bit since 2019. Yeah, there's a lot of fun.   Carol: It is a lot of fun. Blind agencies are always near and dear to my heart. And since I came from Minnesota blind, Natasha knows that I just love that whole variety and all of the work. It's so fun. Kristen, how about you give our listeners a little snapshot about yourself and the agency that you lead?   Kristen: Sure. Similar to Natasha, I started as a VR counselor in the field transition. That was my first job in first entrance into VR. I moved into policy manager policy and then became the director of the Arizona Combined Unit in 2016. Arizona is combined and we are also under a safety net agency. All of the VR, IL OIB, BEP is in a division. That division is in a department. So our DSA is really rather large and we are kind of shuffled 3 or 4 deep down. So we have enterprise services, shared services, which makes things a little bit more difficult to manage than it was when I started the job, when we didn't have some of those other items. So it's been a learning lesson and trying to figure out how do we get done what we need to get done with all these people involved now.   Carol: Yeah, your structure makes me nuts. I'm just saying, full disclosure, but having gone on site with you and your team several times, I'm like, what? You have to always explain. We had DIRs and we have this other thing and all these different levels. I'm like, oh my Lord, I just don't even know how you do it. So I know there's been a lot of big changes since we spoke last, so I'm going to kick it to you first. Natasha, what are some of the biggest changes you've seen in your program since we last spoke?   Natasha: I was actually talking to one of my outreach coordinators, Lisa Larges, and she's like, I think you brought some bad juju because the timing when I started and then everything that happened since I started has just been wild. So since we last met, I've experienced a global pandemic, a civil rights movement that essentially started literally down the street and around the corner from our headquarters. A roller coaster ride of funding at both the federal and state level. We went from having too much to now we don't have enough. We have a new federal administration with very different priorities than we have seen before. We have settled into this new hybrid work, which isn't new anymore. It's kind of our new normal. It's just been, I think you name it, it has changed or it's different or it feels different or it looks different. I think the biggest question right now that we're all faced with is, in light of all of these changes and challenges and opportunities, how do we maintain the integrity of the program, continue to provide high quality services that get people into competitive careers and retain the staff that we have worked so hard to get. While these past few years that's been a focus of a lot of our agencies is how do we recruit? And now with everything happening, is all of that recruitment efforts going to go to waste?   Carol: You know what's kind of funny when you talk about that? Because I look back to when I started at SSB, you know, and so in 2013 I become director. You go at the very end of the year, I was the interim and then made permanent in 14. And you just go, okay, I thought I brought bad juju with me to because WIOA went into play and then we had all this wacky stuff going on. We owed all this money for the case management system. So now, you know, just hearing you, it's like, well, maybe it's just the cycle of the program. Like there is no spot in time where everything is ever just copacetic and all smooth sailing. I think it just continues on.   Kristen: I think that I really feel like that's so good to remember because I think you can in this position, you can take a lot of things like, oh my gosh, am I not doing this right? What skills don't I have? How am I not doing this, that or the other. And it just is a constant. Like it just changes constant. And you have to constantly readjust your focus and your priorities and your strategy. And so it's helpful to remember that our environment is constantly changing at state and federal level. And we just have to be able to manage and navigate and not beat ourselves up over it.   Carol: Oh, that's a super good point. Natasha's going to laugh at this, but I'm actually going to hold up so our listeners won't see it. But I still have my Strengths Finder. So we used to always do strengths Finder at SSB. I still have my top five strengths. And staff used to ask me one of them is adaptability. So my fifth strength was adaptability because people would be like, how can you just roll with the flow? Like you need to just tell like Central Office, we're not going to do that thing that they want for the legislative session. And I'd be like, okay, we're going to pick our battles. That is not the battle we're going to pick right now. We're going to answer the question they need, because the sooner you do that, you get that off your back and then you get back to your business and do your things. And so for me, it's easier because in me is adaptability. I've always been able to kind of go with the flow, whether administration changes or, you know, any of that, where that is more difficult for other people when you want things to be very set and it's hard for you to pivot and make that move. So, Kristen, what are some of the biggest changes you've seen in your program in the last four years?   Kristen: Wow. Well, as I indicated, the state was kind of in that move and shift to centralized services, you know, some of those shared service models. So, you know, it started with our training department and, you know, but we got to keep our policy and we got to keep our contracts and procurement. And the next thing you know, like air moves out and then, oh, we're going to move out all of your facilities management. And so slowly, piece by piece, the staff that you had working with. You have been now pulled to a different reporting structure and a different requirements to do their job. And so when, you know, we used to have a staff of like 500 people that were fully dedicated on board, directly connected with me, I had direct relationships with them. I was able to really work with them. And over the last five years, I've seen that direct connection and relationship with people fade out because those folks are no longer in those positions. They've graduated or moved to other things. They didn't stay within the agency. So, you know, within our VR program, IOB program, BEP, those program staff super dedicated and want to really fulfill the mission of the work in serving individuals with disabilities. And then we have all of our shared service team dedicated to their job to don't necessarily have the same focus on the mission and the outcome of serving individuals with disabilities. It's been very difficult to try to figure out how to play nice with them, because they got to do stuff for you, right? I need you to manage my budgets. I need you to manage my contract. But I also, you know, don't quite like the way you're doing it or you're not doing it fast enough or you're not following my vision for how that would work. So it's just been a real challenge to see how to grow and manage the different structures that are in play now.   Carol: I think you hit the nail on the head on that with that centralization, because it's happening across the country. I mean, we see it everywhere. Every director like just struggling as your people move out from under you, whether it's the IT, the HR, the whoever you had. And now they're centralized, which Congress allows. It was written in the rehab Act, like you can structure that way. But they lose that connection to the mission and what you're trying to do. So when you're doing that work sort of in isolation of what's the end game and how you impact, you know, the staff person having their computer so they can do the work with the customer. You don't see that urgency in it. So it's like, yeah, so we get to you in two weeks, you know, really need your computer or whatever. It's just hard. It makes the job so much harder. So I know not only those changes have happened, the financial landscape is shifting drastically for the VR program. How has this impacted your ability to serve individuals? And Kristen, I'll send it your way first.   Kristen: We've been fortunate in that Arizona with the formula grant. You know, we still receive a little increases every year. So the not getting the cost of living this last year was not as impactful as it had been to some other agencies. So I do, you know, knock on wood for that a bit. Now if that continues we're going to have another, you know, constantly evolving story there. We have had to take a look at for our cases. How do we spend more money faster. And that's been again the challenge of working with shared service opportunities is, well, they don't have capacity to put these contracts in place that I need in order to be able to spend the money that we have, right? We have been successful in keeping it in the VR bucket, but now we need to spend it on our consumers and our clients. But I need a contract to do that and don't have the resources or the capacity from that team to be able to put that out the door. So it's super challenging to know that you're sitting on money that you could spend and do a lot of good things with, but there's then that external factor of not having the capacity to put all of that together to get that money spent.   Carol: So you're in actually a pretty lucky position. You know, other people listening to this podcast are going, What? Kristen Mackey, you've got all this, you've got all this money. Because almost all the calls I get on a daily basis with my list of people all going on the order of selection, I keep a little sticky note, you know, and everybody calling and just frantic. They are literally like tapped out. There is no money, but yet you're trying to spend your money and you don't have the resources to really help you get some of the plans in place.   Kristen: It is challenging, but I feel fortunate that I'm challenged on that end of the spectrum versus the end, where there's not enough money or capacity or staff resources. One of the other pieces, too, is, you know, in this current landscape, budget wise, can't bring on as many people as we would like to, you know. Can't do all of the support services that we or support staff that we would like to. So downsizing your footprint, right? All of that, those are our major expenditures. And we're asked to shrink that. It creates a really kind of a nightmare for projection and and budgets all of that.   Carol: Oh, 100%. How about you, Natasha? How's the finances looking at SSB?   Natasha: It's getting tight. It's getting tight. We were on the other side of that a few years ago. We had more money than we could spend, and we used that as an opportunity to do things that we've always wanted to do or needed to do, and we never had the funding to do it, but we always did things that we could course correct quickly on them or aren't forever. So we didn't make a lot of permanent decisions with that money because the writing was on the wall. We knew that once the pandemic shifted, we were going to see an influx in applications. Inflation was already on the wall that prices were increasing. So we made some, I think, pretty strategic and smart decisions with the money we had and how we spent it. However, it's still tight because we are getting an increase in applications. The cost of services is increasing. We ended our order of selection September 2021. I have no desire to go back there for me. I don't even want to speak it out loud. I know it's an option. I know I may need to use it one day. I can't say never, but I don't think that is the best direction for us because people need our services just as much as before, if not more. And for individuals who are blind or low vision or deaf blind, there really aren't any comparable options available, at least in Minnesota. And we're here for a very specific reason. And so I have always said it's my responsibility to ensure that we can continue doing what we are here for. That may mean that services are going to take a little bit longer to get started. We are increasing our supervisory oversight. We have a ton of financial reports, which I'll talk about in another question that have helped us get ahead of sudden spikes that we're seeing so we can do those course corrections. This also may mean that we're not backfilling or we're freezing some of those positions for a little bit that aren't essential. I'm using the term we're going to freeze, flick or fill, and every position that's our litmus test will freeze it, meaning we don't need it right now. It's not essential for service delivery. We'll revisit this. Flick means you know what? This position really isn't serving its purpose anymore. Let's figure out a different way of doing the work or fill. And we've prioritized counselors and VR techs and anyone doing direct service provision. But it's also all of this is going to force us and continues to force us to find new ways of doing things, which I don't think is a bad thing. One of the goals I've put in place this year is that all of the extra noise. You know, that can happen when you're working in a state government agency. Things that pretty much distract you from what you're supposed to be doing. My goal is we don't do those things if it doesn't stem back to our mission and actually help people get jobs or live independently, we're not going to do it. And I told that to the commissioner's office. You can ask me all day long to do all of this extra stuff, but it's not serving a purpose for us. I'm sorry. I'm not going to do it. And they've been okay with it so far.   Carol: That's awesome. Until you get a legislative request that they need you to answer in ten minutes and analyze.   Natasha: Yeah, I can't say no to those. Yeah, all these extra work groups and task forces and let's do this and that. We got other things we gotta do.   Carol: So what's the biggest thing, Natasha, that's keeping you up at night right now? Because I know there's always something, something is niggling somewhere. What would you say is the biggest thing keeping you up at night?   Natasha: Well, I have a few, but the biggest one is that. So we're not a combined agency. We have a separate general agency and that separate general agency is an incredibly tight budgetary situation. I would go so far as to say they're in a budgetary crisis, and because match maintenance of effort and carry forward determinations are at the state level, not agency, it is very possible that their constraints will impact our funding. And specifically I am very worried are Carryforward is in jeopardy. And we had a scare where we had a very high chance of losing all of our carryforward this last end of the federal fiscal year. Because of those budgetary constraints, the general agency is doing workforce reductions and doing layoffs, and they have the same type of staff classifications that we do. And we are a union state, which means bumping, which means my staff are in jeopardy. And so I'm up every night between 2 and 3 a.m. thinking of ways that we can help in any way possible. Our program income is significantly dropping. I think I've heard other states experience something similar. The inflation, the cost of services. We've had four and a half and 5.5% salary increases with no additional state appropriations. So all of these things together keep me up every single night trying to figure out how do we sustain.   Carol: Now they're going to keep me up at night, too, because of course, I worry about you all. And of course, I really worry about SSB. So I always hold that near and dear to my heart. But oh man, that is a lot. But I know you instituted some things, though, between you and the general agency, just to make sure you guys were communicating better about those financial reports and such, didn't you? Like, what did you do?   Natasha: We have an amazing relationship. We review our federal reports together. I sat closely with the VA's fiscal team, walking through what I know about the fiscal processes, the federal regulations. That's something that Carol taught me very well. I understand it quite well. So we worked hand in hand. We've been doing that since October.   Carol: That's good. Good stuff. How about you, Kristen? What's keeping you up at night?   Kristen: We had a recent monitoring that monitoring. We get through it, Right? And, you know, you haven't always have an inkling of things that need to be fixed and things that we should address, right? And sometimes those get shuffled because priority is whatever. So we had the monitoring very much highlighted certain areas that we need to address and take care of. And one of those was our fiscal management and continue as managed outside of my direct staff and even two and three layers above me. So it's one of those concerns of like, I wonder what's going to happen next. I never quite know what the fiscal situation is going to be. Emails flying around, you know, I'll get an email at the end of the day and it's I need more information. What is this about? How did you come to this conclusion? Who was involved in making this decision? It's kind of just a plethora of items that, you know, any given night, and mine is usually between 3 and 4. Like, oh, wake up and go like, oh, shoot, that sticky note fell off the roster somewhere. I need to go and send that email or this project. We started it, but now it's like kind of hanging, languishing. I need to poke somebody about getting that back on the roll again. I don't know that it's one specific thing, but it's just kind of just the size of the job is not a 40 hour a week job. It is a all encompassing. I dream about work. I it wakes me up at night, you know.   Carol: Well, my newest trick with not having my notepad beside my bed, but I actually been waking up more just because I've had so many more phone calls. Things have been really crazy lately with our fiscal team and people just reaching out. And so maybe end of the day or, you know, people's time change, you could get a call from Guam. You know, it's a way different time. So people are calling all the time. So now at night when I wake up, I text myself, you know, a note like, just so I remember, like remember to get back to so and so tomorrow. So now I just am picking up my phone. I don't have the pad there anymore, but I had two messages from last night for today that I didn't want to forget.   Kristen: I sent texts because I don't put my work phone by my side, but I have my personal. So my work cell phone is embedded in my personal and I just send text to myself.   Carol: Yeah, my work and my personal are all together, so it makes it a little challenging. So I know we're going through an administration change on the federal level right now. And a lot of state administration, you know, that changes every four years to with governors, sometimes you keep a governor twice in a row, but a lot of times not. And it will bring these shifts in priorities and just all of this change. How do you guys navigate and adapt to those changes, whether it's on the state level or federal level, when you're approaching your work? And I'm going to kick that to you, Natasha, first.   Natasha: I think the biggest thing, at least for us, has been a lot of communication and transparency, not only with our staff, but our customers, our community partners and stakeholders in the face of unknowns. People look to steadiness and information even if you don't have a lot to share. The absence of information often speaks very loudly, and people will fill in the blanks, sometimes not in a way you want them to. So we are communicating frequently, even if we don't have information. People look to me, am I panicked or am I calm? And know if I am panicked, it will not be good. People feed off of that and so I am always calm. I am always just. I can't guarantee or promise anything, but I can say we're in this together and I remind everyone why we're here. We have a mission. As Carol knows, the mission is on the wall. We look at it frequently and nothing has changed. No matter what happens federally or at the state level, that mission has not changed. We have proved that during a global pandemic. VR agencies are adaptable, creative for us in Minnesota, SSB was one of the first agencies, if not the first, allowed to go back into people's homes and provide services. That's because we know how to do things quickly and strategically to respond to whatever comes our way. We don't wait for people to tell us what to do or how to do it. We take charge and we lead the way. And I feel that is how VR is across the country. We tend to be leaders in faces of crisis and urgency. We tend to step up when others don't.   Carol: Yeah, good advice. That's all good advice. Kristen, how about you? Because you've had major shifts. I mean, you've already alluded to this, this whole like take away your people. And that's been all shifts in the structure within the state government and such. You know we've got the federal different priorities. So how do you navigate and adapt to those changes in your work and for yourself, even, like how are you taking care of yourself through all this.   Kristen: Being able to adapt the work that we do? Natasha says that we have a mission. We have a very clear outcome that we have whatever side, whoever's telling you what they want to do or how they want to do it. You need to be able to mold what that strategy looks like so you can speak to it. And I always talk about it. It's a spin. I don't like the terminology of spinning, you know, for the sake of trying to hoodwink anybody or not be transparent. But at the end of the day, we want job placements, we want employment, we want independence. So if somebody's saying increase your job placements, fine, that we can do that. It's how do we then take what they're giving us and make it not be a distraction and we can mold, you know, whatever we're measuring to the thing that they want, but still do what we are doing at the base level. And so I do feel like that's really part of our job as leaders is to and Natasha spoke to this earlier is take that noise and then see how we can like get it to stop with us and push it back in a way that still supports the work we're doing, whatever comes to us in terms of work group where you need to measure this, or we want some kind of change in X, Y, or Z. Okay. I can give you this back that will meet your needs. And it doesn't change or distract from what I'm doing in our department or in our programs. I think it's just being flexible in your thinking, being able to not have to have a certain way of approaching things, because you got to understand what that landscape is. You got to speak the words that they're speaking in order to get them to listen to you and kind of play with you so that we can all get to the same end goal.   Carol: One thing I've seen from you, Kristen, just working with you these past years in my TA capacity is I'm like, I love your persistence because you've had to navigate this really tough, internal, weird structure. It just is weird. And you are super persistent in messaging. Okay. Like you send a message to this person, oh, I'm not the person. Okay, then who is the person? Okay, I'm going to go to this person and you will not let it go till you find till the end the little trail of crumbs you get to and you're like, all right, I'm finally getting to the person because I have to get this thing answered. Some people just give up. They're like, oh, I don't know. And then staff ask and you're like, well, I don't know. We don't know who's doing what. Oh not you, you. You don't let that happen.   Kristen: That is one piece of advice I give to people when they come on. This is a state government, federal government, there are all sorts of red tape, barriers, hoops. Everything will get in your way if you let it. You're going to have to be persistent. Don't get jaded with it. Don't give up. Just know that you're going to have to be persistent with getting to the thing that you want to get done.   Carol: So switching a little bit. There's a lot of different structures in hiring VR agency leaders. I mean, you can be a political appointee. You can be more of a career professional where maybe you have some protections, maybe it's not a full blown union, but you got something. And we've had 14 new directors in the last less than ten months. Again, 14 new directors in VR. You know, people don't always realize like, how does that and each of you represents a different bucket here. How does that distinction, whether you're a political appointee or you have a little more protection influence your agency. Kind of how you approach the operations and your decision making. And I'll ask you first, Natasha.   Natasha: I am a career professional. I'm the highest level you can go before you start hitting the politically appointed positions. So that means I get the privilege of bringing some stability to the agency. Granted, that doesn't mean I can't get fired or laid off, but I am not politically appointed. So when the administration changes, I don't change with it. So that means staff can expect some consistency, and they don't have to wonder who's going to be coming in now to shake things up with their own ideas and views. They know what my priorities and goals are. They know how I work and they know what to expect. And so I have the luxury of time to create a culture that will sustain anything that comes our way. I have the time to develop that succession plan, offer professional development and mentorship opportunities. But when I was thinking of this, I can see the value of Having fresh new faces, coming in with different perspectives and experiences, and that they may have a better idea for how we do things. You know, we talk about people who have been in the position for 30, 40 years. Is there some value to having that new life coming into an agency? So I recognize that being a career professional could also be a limitation of mine, which means that I really need to surround myself with people who think differently from me, and I can't get stagnant.   Carol: Yeah, that's a really good point. Although there are very few 30 year or 40 year career leaders in the VR program anymore, I think we got Diane Delmas out in Vermont and Greg Trapp, those are the two I always think of. Otherwise, boy, people have been coming and going pretty fast, but that is good advice because you can get a little stuck. Now, Kristen, you're on the other end of the spectrum because you are a political appointee.   Kristen: I am not a political appointee, but I am an at will employee.   Carol: Oh, you're an at will though.   Kristen: Yeah,.   Carol: So it's very similar. So you're an at will person, does that impact you at all, like in decision making or as you go about doing your job?   Kristen: Well, certainly. You think, you know, is this decision going to make me the scapegoat for something that goes south, right? So, you know, it does impact my thinking. I don't let it impact whether it's right or wrong. To do that is just my base. You know, you just have to have that gut kind of commitment to. This is what I said. It's the truth. I don't have any qualms about how I do the work or the transparency that I have in the work that I do. So keeping it all above board, hope that that serves you in the end. Natasha, you had a very positive outlook on new people coming in. In my tenure, I've experienced a lot of changes in different people at different levels coming in and not having any idea about the rehabilitation programs that we run. And so it is a kind of a continuing education of individuals who are coming and going to have them see the value of the programs and the way that they need to operate.   Carol: Yeah, I appreciate that. So let's look a little bit at kind of leveraging both of you like this leveraging your data. And we're kind of skipping around a little bit here. But how do you guys like to leverage data to inform your financial and programmatic decisions? Now remember we've got a lot of new directors. We have listeners out there that are they don't know we I get this question all the time. You know, we talk about data informed decision making. People are like, yeah, we talk about it, but what does that mean? And how do you really do it in practicality? So Kristen, what would you say do you have like an example or how do you like to best leverage data when you're looking at making decisions, whether programmatically or financially?   Kristen: Just because I have a little bit more programmatic data that I have access to and ability to manipulate, we really look at that in terms of, you know, when we're setting our annual strategic goals, what is our five year goal? Take a look at what have the last three years look like. You know what the percentage of increase or decrease is? How are we adjusting those things? Use the data to understand where are the gaps, what's not working, and something we expected the needle to move and it didn't. What's not working in that process. And so you know, what lever do we pull to say this is going to be quote unquote a countermeasure for that thing, and then measure that data over the next three, six months. And if there's a change, then we can kind of understand then did that work or didn't it work? I think far too often in our workforce we say, well, this is a problem, but we don't really have any data around it. Should we gather a ton of data for the program to being able to use that data to help inform what decisions or what changes to processes should we be making and how should we make those. And then we can track it to see did it make a difference or what difference did it make? And is it something we should replicate? Is it something we should pull back. So I really like to use our data from our program, you know, participant program data to inform our strategy on what we're going to be doing in the next 1 to 5 years.   Carol: I know before you have presented at CSAVR and showed like you had some really cool ways you were able to look at data and you did a lot of it by your region so you could start narrowing in, because you can have this tendency to go, oh, you look at the data broadly and then you're like, oh, we must have this problem everywhere. Well, you realized you had regions, you know, in your state you're like, well, why am I like spanking everybody? What we write, we need to focus over here.   Kristen: Yeah, we have those metrics. And it's a metric per counselor, per rehab tech, per purchasing specialist. That unit of counselors rolls up to the supervisor. The supervisor rolls up to the program manager. So I can drill down from a state level perspective to a region perspective. Is it a supervisor office problem? Is it a person problem? And that has really helped us understand. Also, where do we need to direct the energies and efforts in terms of making changes.   Carol: Yeah, I really like that. That was really good stuff. How about you, Natasha? What are you doing with leveraging data? Because I know that's in your wheelhouse, too.   Natasha: We actually hired within, like, the last year or so, a data analyst who is skilled in data visualization and being able to take a bunch of raw numbers and tell a story. And we have been working with her to develop not only the programmatic data, which we now have a ton of that we can look at, but also our fiscal forecasting and what's happening on a budgetary level. It is because of those reports which I am getting weekly, monthly and quarterly reports, depending on the nature that we were able to suddenly see this huge, unexpected spike in case services authorizations. Within just a month of it happening, we were able to drill in. What exactly is going on? What are the bucket items that are the red flags we were able to look at by staff member by region, and we found that our interpreters have gone up over 300%, which then led us down to, okay, what's going on with that? What's the story behind the data? We also are every week meeting as a fiscal team. So the three fiscal staff that I have and myself, we meet every single week. I am intimately involved in our federal reporting. I look at every single report that they put together before we submit our 17. We walk through it. I know where we're at with match. I know where we're at with maintenance of effort. I know exactly where our 15% set aside is, and I can tell you that every single month how we're doing and what issues we're going to be facing. And that's because we have the data. If a director never looks at data and doesn't know what's happening in their programs, they're not going to be able to spot issues. You have to know whether you're doing good or you're not doing good. You need to be able to catch those things.   Carol: Yeah. And unfortunately, you have many colleagues across the country. And I will come in and they're being told by like the DSA fiscal staff, hey, don't worry about it. We got it. And so there have been directors of programs of 150 plus million dollars, have never seen a budget report. Zero idea. So literally anything they want to do. Hey, can we send a staff to training? They're asking this group of fiscal people sitting over here because they don't even know what's in the budget. It is the most insane thing I've ever seen. So you really hit the nail on the head. Like, you have to have access and it is required in the law, in the act, in setting up the agency org structure, you have the sole responsibility over the allocation and expenditure of your funds. And how can you have that sole responsibility and not have any data that goes with it? So I preach. Natasha: I will say, data is if you have a legislative ask and you are requesting more funding, the stories are important, but they also want to see the data behind it.   Carol: 100%. And it can't be data that's changing by the day. Oops, we forgot this because I've seen people get burned on that as well. And then the legislators are going, okay, well, this data now is suspect, and I think they need a legislative audit report and review because what are they doing over there?   Kristen: From a data reporting perspective, like having historical data to the same reports they pull, they cannot keep changing the reports that you're changing the methodology of that. That was a lesson learned for us is we had to understand what data we were pulling, how were we calculating the numbers we were calculating. And now we have data since 2018, and we can tell when we've made any changes. And so then we can see what are our trends. What does that look like. How can we use that to help us predict in the future. So that was a lesson learned for me. We came in and it wasn't much in terms of data. We built some reports and then it was like, oh, but now we need to kind of be able to track, oh, well, this thing happened. And that's why maybe that spiked or dipped or we did this thing and here's the change we saw. So we were able to speak to that year over year as well.   Carol: Well super cool. So what advice would you guys have for other leaders out there? All the lessons you all have learned. We can try to read the tea leaves, like where is VR heading in the next few years? But what do you all think? Like what do you think where's VR going? And what advice would you have for other leaders? And Kristen, I'll go to you.   Kristen: I just think remain committed to the mission and the purpose of the programs that we have. we're here to serve individuals with disabilities. We'd keep that at the forefront. And, you know, I heard Natasha say to you, the mission is on the wall, right? We all have our missions. We all have our visions. Just don't let that get buried in all of the craziness that is happening and continue to be persistent. Carol mentioned the persistence. I think that is key. You don't let it drag you down. Don't let it burn you out. Just be persistent and know that all of the work that you're doing is for a good reason, good outcomes.   Carol: Good stuff. Natasha, I'm going to give you the last word.   Natasha: Don't get comfortable with how things are going right now. Speaking to what Kristen said earlier? Things will change, and probably for reasons completely outside of your control. And also remember that easy decisions aren't always the best decisions, and the best decisions aren't always the popular ones.   Carol: Well said. Very true. Well, I appreciate you both. Oh my gosh, I'm so excited to see what you all have done. You're two of my favorite directors. Don't tell the, don't tell the other directors that are listening.   Natasha: Yeah, cut that out, Jeff. Don't have that in there.   Carol: Thanks for joining me today. Sure appreciate it.   Kristen: Thank you.   Natasha: Bye.   {Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR, one manager at a time, one minute at a time, brought to you by the VR TAC for Quality Management. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening!

Meet Jenny Pelletier and Abdi Mumin, two passionate Orientation and Mobility (O&M) instructors who are helping blind and visually impaired students build confidence, independence, and street smarts—one step at a time. In this episode, they share how mastering cane skills, navigating new environments, and embracing your journey can unlock freedom and open new opportunities. Whether you're heading to high school, college, or a first job, O&M is your toolkit for success. From snowy sidewalks to exploring campuses and even hiking trails, they remind us: your path is yours to shape. Confidence is the game-changer—are you ready to swing for the fences?   Full Transcript: To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.  

Meet Tou Yang, a Transition Work Opportunities Navigator at State Services for the Blind! Tou helps students explore career options, build resumes, prepare for interviews, and find summer jobs, internships, or volunteer experiences. Learn how tools like Career Index Plus make it easier to research careers and job markets. Tou shares tips for tailoring your resume, answering interview questions with confidence, and job shadowing opportunities. Whether you're heading to college or the workforce, Tou and his team are ready to support you every step of the way. Opportunity starts with taking that first step! Full Transcript: To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.  

This Blind Abilities episode features peer ambassadors Amy and Maddy, who share how Minnesota's State Services for the Blind (SSB) has supported their educational and vocational journeys. From summer camps to career exploration and technology training, SSB has played a vital role in helping them develop independence, self-advocacy, and professional readiness. Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis explains how SSB collaborates with students, schools, and families starting at age 14, providing individualized services like job shadowing, orientation and mobility training, and Braille instruction. The episode highlights real-world experiences, resources, and the long-term impact of SSB on the lives of blind and visually impaired students.   To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript  

In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson speaks with three professionals from State Services for the Blind (SSB)—Kate Larson, Randi Lasher, and Shane DeSantis—who support students with vision loss as they prepare for life after high school. They share helpful tips about applying for college, getting financial aid (like FAFSA and scholarships), gaining job experience through internships, and working closely with counselors for support. They also talk about the importance of accessibility, orientation and mobility, and how internships and campus resources can help you feel confident and ready to succeed in college and beyond.   To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at Shane.DeSantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:  

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the groundbreaking steps taken by the State of California in adopting AI technology for government operations. They discuss the state's unique approach to procurement through Request for Innovative Ideas and its collaborative projects with major firms like Accenture and Deloitte. Key projects include traffic mobility insights, tax center call productivity, language tools for health services, housing plan reviews, economic predictions, and legislative analysis. The episode also highlights the importance of data hygiene and readiness, with a look at how various state agencies are preparing their data for AI integration. Finally, the hosts reflect on the role of AI in making government processes more efficient without displacing workers, as well as the broader implications of AI adoption in public services.00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today00:46 California's AI Implementation Journey01:42 Innovative Procurement Process02:38 Generative AI in Action: Caltrans Case Study03:52 Expanding AI Projects Across State Departments07:24 Labor's Role and Concerns with AI09:39 Data Hygiene and AI Readiness16:50 Future of AI in State Services

Have you ever wanted to experience the thrill of snowshoeing, learn how to build a campfire, or master winter hiking skills? In this special podcast episode, we take you on a journey to Fort Snelling State Park, where State Services for the Blind (SSB) partnered with Wilderness Inquiry to create an unforgettable winter experience for blind and visually impaired students.   Guided by experienced outdoor educators, students learned essential winter survival skills, from navigating snowy trails with snowshoes to starting a fire using only a spark and a cotton ball. They also discovered the importance of teamwork, problem-solving, and dressing for cold weather while exploring the winter landscape. And, of course, no winter adventure would be complete without enjoying hot chocolate and s'mores around a warm campfire!   Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures or simply want to gain confidence in new environments, this episode will inspire you to step outside, embrace new challenges, and explore the world around you.   Full Transcript   To learn more about the services available through State Services for the Blind and how they can support your independence, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call 651-385-5205.

The Desserts in the Dark event at Minnesota State Academy for the Blind (MSAB) provided a hands-on experience for sighted participants to gain insight into the world of blindness. Guests wore blindfolds while enjoying a variety of desserts, decorating cookies, and engaging in a Braille decoding activity. Led by blind and visually impaired students, the event highlighted the students' capabilities and independence. The fundraiser supports the International Studies Club's upcoming trip to Sicily, reinforcing that blindness is not a barrier to travel, learning, or adventure. By engaging their other senses, participants left with a deeper appreciation for accessibility and inclusion.   Links: Minnesota State Academy for the Blind Seable - Holidays for Blind and Visually Impaired Groups and Tailored Holidays   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:     (

The ACB Minnesota State Convention: Zooming into 2025 was an exciting gathering of Minnesota's blindness community, offering insights, connections, and resources. Highlights included updates from State Services for the Blind, discussions on assistive technology like the NLS e-Reader, and opportunities in employment, including pharmacy technician training for those with low vision. The convention also featured a Metro Mobility Q&A, a goalball team headed to nationals, and an inspiring keynote from Scott Thornhill on embracing blindness. Attendees engaged with exhibitors, workshops, and a film screening of “Possibilities”—making this a must-attend event for Minnesotans with vision impairments.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:  

In this 2nd  episode of the Two Journeys to Employment,  Gabby Gingras shares her inspiring journey from student to professional, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, resilience, and using available resources. As a visually impaired environmental Studies graduate, Gabby describes her role at Rainbow Tree Care, advocating for herself at work, and overcoming challenges in education and employment. She reflects on her experiences as a Peer Educator, where she helped younger students prepare for college and careers by teaching advocacy and assistive technology skills. Gabby's advice to high schoolers: don't be afraid to ask for help, try new things, and never give up on your dreams.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:  

In episode 1 of the Two Journeys to Employment series, Kat Wilke shares her inspiring journey from high school to becoming a speech-language pathologist. Diagnosed with Stargardt's disease in eighth grade, Kat overcame challenges with vision loss by connecting with Minnesota's State Services for the Blind (SSB), which helped her develop self-advocacy skills and provided vital resources like assistive technology. As a peer educator, Kat shared college tips with other students, fostering a sense of community. She encourages high school students to embrace their unique paths, explore resources, and take pride in their differences. Kat's story shows how persistence, support, and passion can lead to fulfilling careers and personal growth.   Full Transcript