Blind Inspirationcast Inspirations

Episode 49 – Colleen and Canadian podcast A T Banter on Audio Description, Education, Society and more!

Colleen Connor — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 02:31:05 +0000

Colleen ventures into the Guitar Dungeon of Assistive Technology Banter, or the AT Banter podcast of Rob Mineault, Ryan Fleury, and Steve Barclay. Their goal is to provide a balanced and entertaining look at AssistiveTechnology, Accessibility and its importance in people’s lives. These fine gentlemen contacted Colleen to discuss her visual impairment, social perspective, and the world of Audio Description in the US. By the time they got to the description of porn, they decided they might have to have another team up in the future! Don’t miss this chat!

Are you interested in becoming an Audio Describer? e-mail ADTrainingRetreats@gmail.com and talk to Colleen about coming to the Level 1 training this July 2018!

Check out A T Banter at The A T Banter Podcast Feed or The A T Banter Website

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Episode 48 – Audio Story with Cheryl Green

Colleen Connor — Sun, 17 Dec 2017 04:21:06 +0000

In this podcast, Colleen speaks of her journey at The Seeing Eye where she obtained her very first guide dog, Joplin. She had the honor of meeting Cheryl Green, and advocate in the disability community. In addition to this podcast please go and listen to the story of an honest love between a blind woman and her dog.

Find the episode here.

Or you can try this link straight to soundcloud.

Interested in becoming an Audio Describer? Contact Colleen at Audio Description Training Retreats LLC!

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Episode 47 – My YouTube Channel

Colleen Connor — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 13:29:04 +0000

Hi, listeners! As usual, thank you for your patience and interest. Colleen is enjoying making videos with new Seeing Eye Dog Joplin so much she has decided to continue them on a regular basis! Podcasts will return periodically so keep an eye. Email us with any suggestions for podcast topics. If you enjoy Colleen though, check out her YouTube here, because it’s awesome! Subscribe to her channel and select the bell icon to be notified when she adds a new video.

Interested in becoming an Audio Describer? Contact Colleen at Audio Description Training Retreats LLC! There are still a couple of spots left in the August and September all-inclusive retreats!

Email: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 46 – Guide Dog Video Blog

Colleen Connor — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 15:10:10 +0000

Colleen is getting a guide dog! She is sharing this experience on a video blog instead of her podcast. Check out her first 3 vlogs on YouTube here. Subscribe to her channel and select the bell icon to be notified when she adds a new video.

She will be continuing her podcast after this adventure, so stay tuned here as well.

Interested in becoming an Audio Describer? Contact Colleen at Audio Description Training Retreats LLC!

Email: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 45 – Audio Description (collaboration with Twenty Thousand Hertz)

Colleen Connor — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 22:03:25 +0000

Colleen has collaborated with Defacto Sound‘s podcast Twenty Thousand Hertz to talk about many aspects of audio description and this hidden track in an increasing number of films. Check out the podcast on Soundcloud. The goal is to further the production of Audio Description for TV, Film, and more!

Interested in becoming an Audio Describer? Contact Colleen at Audio Description Training Retreats LLC!

Email: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 44 – Sound Studios Jump on Audio Description!

Colleen Connor — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 18:03:27 +0000

Colleen was contacted by Defacto Sound, which is a Sound Studio in MD, USA. Proprietor Dallas interviews her regarding her life in the visual world, and her thoughts on Audio Description. This is a fascinating look into the world of a sighted sound engineer talking to a blind sound-lover.

Our goal is to further the production of Audio Description for TV, Film, and more! Check out the Defacto podcast Twenty Thousand Hertz. And check out Colleen’s new spotlight with Comics Empower!

Interested in becoming an Audio Describer? Contact Colleen at Audio Description Training Retreats LLC!

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Episode 43 – Election 2016 and Nerdtastic News!

Colleen Connor — Wed, 09 Nov 2016 21:52:24 +0000

It’s finally here! Voting 2016…how was it for you? Colleen describes her accessible voting experience (or lack thereof). She also announces her upcoming collaboration with Comics Empower!

Survey for Blind Voter Feedback

Listen to Colleen’s past podcasts about voting in 2014 and about voting in 2012.

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Episode 42 – Advocate Accessible Pedestrians!

Colleen Connor — Tue, 01 Nov 2016 17:06:55 +0000

In this episode Colleen talks about the importance of advocacy in the visually impaired community. Especially going over her own experience obtaining an Accessible Pedestrian Signal (APS) in her hometown. Safety and independence are so important to the blind community, and travel is a huge part of that. Let’s cross some streets!

APS Technical Specifications

Do you have an access need in your community?

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Episode 41 – Speech at Highpoint University

Colleen Connor — Fri, 14 Oct 2016 21:48:05 +0000

Colleen had the honor of being asked to speak at Highpoint University in North Carolina. She was the keynote speaker for the School of Communications Banquet Awards Dinner for 2016. Here is a clip from her speech to the professors and students of Highpoint on disability awareness and motivation.

Colleen Connor Speaks at Highpoint – YouTube

Want Colleen to speak at an event?
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Episode 40 – TapTapSee and iPhone VoiceOver

Colleen Connor — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 20:50:00 +0000

Colleen is back with several updates about her life, some advice about turning on the accessibility settings on a smart phone, and a peek into the app TapTapSee. TapTapSee is a camera app for the blind and vision impaired that allows you to take a photo of anything and have it described for you in real time! Colleen highly recommends the app to those with visual impairments.

Want Colleen to review other apps? Have a favorite app that helps you?
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Episode 39 – The Deaf-Blind Experience

Colleen Connor — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 18:40:06 +0000

In this episode Colleen talks about her experience giving a museum tour to a deaf blind gentleman. He can’t see or hear, and she can’t see or sign…what happened? Tune in to find out this insightful story. Happy Birthday to Helen Keller, too.

Have you interacted with a deaf blind person? As someone who is deaf blind, do you have any experiences you would like to share? Feel free to email us for a transcript.

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Episode 38 – Desexualization of Disabilities

Colleen Connor — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 21:11:25 +0000

Colleen returns after her big move with a big topic. Inspired by a podcast from How Stuff Works, Colleen discusses the concept of desexualizing people with disabilities. She goes into the history of disability rights in the US, social psychology, and gives her perspective on why a lot of the world doesn’t accept individuals with differences as sexy.

Do you have a personal story about disability and dating? Do you think that there should be more inclusion in the empowerment of being attractive?

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Episode 37 – Mad Max Fury Road

Colleen Connor — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 00:10:40 +0000

Colleen and Alyssa do an audio description movie review of Mad Max Fury Road! Note that this film is rated R for violence and explosions, but it ends up being a great example of how to view a film that is almost all AD and very little dialogue. In need of some heavy metal, car chases, and fireballs in the desert? Listen to this podcast and decide if you want to do it with description!

Who do you think should play Cable in Deadpool 2?
Do you have any Audio Described films you would like reviewed?

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Episode 36 – Marvel Audio Description

Colleen Connor — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 17:55:18 +0000

Colleen returns from establishing her new joint venture, Audio Description Training Retreats, to discuss Marvel Movie-verse accessibility with Alyssa and Cheryl! Hear how video description has entered the Marvel world from Iron Man 1 to Deadpool . What is your experience with audio description in mainstream Hollywood films? Have a good or bad example of description?

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Special Post: Colleen on Blind Panels Podcast

Colleen Connor — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 00:40:38 +0000

Recently, Colleen was a guest on the Blind Panels Podcast created by Comics Empower, the comic book store for the blind and the visually impaired. Listen to the episode of Blind Panels.

Stay tuned! New episodes of Blind Inspirationcast are coming very soon. In the next episode, Colleen will fill you in on what has been keeping her from podcasting.

Episode 35 – Reasons It Sucks to be Blind

Colleen Connor — Sun, 25 Oct 2015 15:01:23 +0000

So you’ve heard Colleen talk about 20 Awesome Things about being Visually Impaired. Now it’s time to hear some reasons why it might not be so awesome. Hear about the actual woes of the visually impaired, presented with plenty of humor of course.

Colleen references the Vending Machine Episode as well.

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Episode 34 – Spotlight on Sophie Trist and Braille Menus

Colleen Connor — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 00:37:43 +0000

How does a blind person order at a restaurant? Colleen recently talked with Sophie Trist, who took on the task of brailing many menus for restaurants in her home town. Find out what prompted her interest and what her experience was like.

Download the Transcript for Episode 34

Have you used or ever been denied a braille menu? Know another person who would be good for a Spotlight? Email: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 33 – Introduction to Audio Description

Colleen Connor — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 20:14:09 +0000

Apologies for the mistakenly re-released previous episode. This is a completely new podcast episode.

Colleen discusses the art of Audio Description and the service it provides for the blind and vision impaired. She touches on where it comes from, how to get it, and her own experiences using the service. Also, she announces a new Audio Description Training Retreat scheduled for September.

Reference Links:

ACB (American Council of the Blind) website:
American Council of the Blind

Audio Description Training Retreat Information:

http://www.acb.org/adp/docs/ADTrainingRetreatSept2015.pdf

Do you use or produce audio description? Interested in attending Colleen’s Audio Description Training Retreat? Email: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 32 – Beginning Braille

Colleen Connor — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 14:42:31 +0000

By listener request, Colleen speaks about The Hadley School for the Blind and her experience learning Braille through their free courses. She also touches on what this special code is and how one would read it. Tune in to hear the basics, benefits, and bumps!

Reference Links:

The Hadley School for the Blind

Braille Translator

Do you use Braille? Any questions or comments? blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 31 – Why Describe Color to the Blind?

Colleen Connor — Tue, 05 May 2015 20:06:01 +0000

Colleen gives her take on how people with visual impairments and color blindness perceive and relate to colors as the sighted world knows them. She’s not a scientist or a doctor, but Colleen touches on the uniqueness of every person’s eyes, society’s naming of colors, and why it is worth it to describe color to the blind and vision impaired.

Reference Links:

Why Describe Color in Video Description? – Article by Joyce Adams

DCMP (Described and Captioned Media Program)

TED-Ed How we see color – Colm Kelleher

Is Your Red the Same as My Red? (We are all different in our perceptions, sighted and blind)

What’s your take on color? Comment below or write in: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 30 – Alternative Treatments for Depression 3: Meditation and Mindfulness

Colleen Connor — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 15:49:51 +0000

This episode follows Colleen’s series in Alternative Treatments for Depression regarding physical and mental illnesses. No matter who you are, if you are interested in meditation and mindful practices to de-stress your everyday life, listen in! People haven’t been doing this for thousands of years for no reason…what’s the secret here?

Listen to Part 1 and Part 2.

Resources:
Mindfulness Meditation Can Help Relieve Anxiety and Depression

The Mindful Way through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness (Some parts available on Youtube)

Meditations to Change Your Brain

Try these Youtube Searches: “Guided Meditations” “Tibetan Music for Meditation” “”Traditional Meditation Music” “Music and Tones for Depression/(fill in your blank)” “ASMR Trigger Sounds” “Binaural Beats and Isochronic Tones for (fill in your blank)”

Have you tried meditation? Comment below or write in: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Note: Although Colleen has personal experience and does research, she is not a medical doctor. Please consult your doctor if you have concerns about any suggestions in this podcast. If you are considering suicide, please contact a hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Episode 029 – “Inspiration Porn”

Colleen Connor — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 02:26:16 +0000

In this podcast Cheryl joins Colleen to discuss a recently coined phrase “inspiration porn.” Not bashing anyone who posts pictures of inspiring people who struggle with challenges, but questioning the real motives. The concept that people with disabilities are required to inspire those who don’t have any. That meme that brightens your day because you realize you don’t have to deal with a disability? Let’s talk about that…

What do you think about this slightly controversial issue? Write in with your thoughts.

A future episode we’ll be discussing the portrayal of those with disabilities in the media, TV shows, and movies. What media have you seen that features a disabled actor or character?

Referenced Links:
Fox News: “Blind runner crosses Grand Canyon and back in 28 hours”
The F Word: “It’s not all about you”

Comment below or to: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 028 – Blind Voting 2014

Colleen Connor — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 04:44:07 +0000

In this fun-filled American jaunt, Colleen discusses the process of how visually impaired and blind people vote at the polls. Her own experience provides criticism, cynicism, and civicism! Learn how you can help the visually impaired vote confidentially and successfully!

Referenced Links:
American Federation for the Blind – Voting Machines
Colleen’s last podcast on voting

Was your voting experience accessible? Comment below or to: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 27 – Alternative Treatments for Depression 2: Supplements and Diet

Colleen Connor — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 19:26:27 +0000

Crack the code of how to eat your way out of the darkness! Colleen follows her Episode 26 – Alternative Treatments for Depression Part 1: Let’s Get Physical with Supplementary and Dietary things you can do to combat the disability of mental illness. Her research can simplify some of the things you hear about what to put in your body.

Note: Colleen is not a doctor or dietician, but she does want to inspire you to take care of yourself! Consult you doctor before adding supplements to your diet.

Referenced Links:
Vitamin D: https://www.vitamindcouncil.org/about-vitamin-d/what-is-vitamin-d/
Astaxanthin: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/suzy-cohen-rph/astaxanthin_b_2750910.html
Holy Basil: http://www.medicinehunter.com/holy-basil

Post your stories with diet and supplements below or write in to: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 26 – Alternative Treatments for Depression Part 1: Let’s Get Physical

Colleen Connor — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 00:06:45 +0000

Colleen is back to inspire! This is the follow up podcast to Episode 24 – Depression, Speak out. In this podcast Colleen touches on physical methods of combating depression and other disabilities. This is the first in a series that will be posted on ideas and alternative treatments for depression. Let us know what you think, and get ready for a whole new blindinspirationcast!

Note: Although Colleen has personal experience and does research, she is not a medical doctor. Please consult you doctor if you have concerns about any suggestions in this podcast. If you are considering suicide, please contact a hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Andrew Solomon’s Articles: http://andrewsolomon.com/article-category/depression-suicide/

Let Colleen know your suggestions below or write in: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Quick update

Colleen Connor — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:59:36 +0000

Just an update to let you know that we have been on a bit of a hiatus, but we are still here. We are dealing with life and jobs at the moment, and we will be back by the end of May with a new episode for both Doctor Who and Inspirations.

Thanks for sticking with us!

-Cheryl and Colleen

Episode 25 – The Dream of Life

Colleen Connor — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 00:28:48 +0000

In this podcast Colleen recites a portion of an Alan Watts’ lecture on the concept of life as a dream, a piece that has inspired her to see the world differently. She hopes it will help you think about things in a different way as well.

Let Colleen know your thoughts about doing podcasts in different accents! And as always write in: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Alan Watts Original Video

Episode 24 – Depression, Speak Out

Colleen Connor — Sat, 29 Mar 2014 20:41:30 +0000

In this talk, Colleen divulges her knowledge and personal experience with depression. Not only associated with losing one’s eyesight, depression affects a large amount of the population. Do you think you understand exactly what depression is? Please listen in and discover some resources about depression and illnesses that perhaps you never even considered.

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Recommendations:
Miles and Miles of No Mans Land Blog Post
Hyperbole and a Half Comics
Empathy vs. Sympathy
Steven Fry The Secret Life of a Manic Depressive

Note: If you are considering suicide, please contact a hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Episode 23 – 20 Awesome Things About Being Visually Impaired

Colleen Connor — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 03:35:56 +0000

Legally blind hostess Colleen gives a stand-up rendition of her personal top twenty reasons why the visually impaired community is secretly awesome. Have you ever walked by a blind person and thought, “I could never live….how do they exist?” It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible. Laugh along with us and comment!

Did Colleen miss anything? What did you not know about?

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Episode 22 – UK Travel Part 3

Colleen Connor — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 00:19:50 +0000

Cheryl and Colleen round out their October trip and discuss their specific experiences in venues around London and Wales. It was a wonderful whirlwind trip based in the Cambridge area, and is a must listen if you are going abroad to any sites discussed! Check out Part I and Part II,

Tell us about the most accessible and inaccessible museums and attractions: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 21 – UK Travel Part 2

Colleen Connor — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 14:34:49 +0000

Cheryl and Colleen come back to their UK adventures from UK Travel Part 1 to reveal more about traveling in the United Kingdom specifically, including some money-saving tips. Transportation, taxes, and accessibility are all discussed. And…drumroll…there is a PART 3! Check it out soon, we’ve split things up for easy listening. Tune in for more about the Dr. Who Experience, Harry Potter, palaces, museums, and parks in the greater London and Cardiff areas!

Have you traveled to any particularly accessible places?

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Episode 20 – UK Travel Part 1

Colleen Connor — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 03:46:07 +0000

Being visually impaired in a new place can be difficult, but it can be done. USA residents Colleen and Cheryl recently returned from a trip to the United Kingdom! They share some of their experiences with travel, both good and bad, and provide tips and tricks for people researching their next adventure (sighted or not). Accompany them on a two-part series to test your English vocabulary, learn how best to go about treating a visually impaired person on-the-go, and raise your awareness before going abroad! It’s a fun way to think about your next vacation, and the apps, suggestions, and money-saving tips are worth a listen!

Suggestions for accessible apss:
http://www.applevis.com/apps/ios-apps-for-blind-and-vision-impaired

Do you have any traveling stories? Or want to hear more?

Tell us at: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

Episode 19 – Computer Programming and Technology Tips Part 2

Colleen Connor — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 01:50:30 +0000

How do people who can’t see a computer screen navigate a website? Colleen and her website designer, Cheryl, talk about basics of web design and programming for visually impaired users. Understand more about how blind people might experience the internet and learn how easy it can be to make your site accessible to more people. Colleen and Cheryl discuss the importance of Alt Text and labeling in images, tables, links and buttons, using headings to create a logical screen-reading experience, how overlays can make your site completely inaccessible, and how to size your elements.

Colleen also created this youtube video so you can see a common screen-reader in action. Watch the screen reader video.

Resources:
Webaim Accessibility Evaluation Tool
NVAccess
HumanWare Accessibility Products

Do you know a website that is surprisingly accessible or surprisingly inaccessible? Send it in to blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

Episode 18 – Inclusion in the Arts: James Earl Jones

Colleen Connor — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 13:38:03 +0000

Inclusion in the Arts recently created an Achievement in Diversity Award, which they presented to actor James Earl Jones in July 2013. Colleen explains the non-profit organization and gives her thoughts on the award and the actor.

Do you have any thoughts on Inclusion in the Arts? Who should get this award next year?
Fun with James Earl Jones’ career as Darth Vader Sessions
Write in blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

Inclusion in the Arts: Website, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

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Episode 17 – Computer Programming and Technology Tips

Colleen Connor — Thu, 23 May 2013 22:46:30 +0000

Colleen is back, this time speaking about accessibility in computer programming! For all those who design, use, or create programs and websites this podcast will give you some fun insight into what blind and visually impaired people do with their settings and screen readers to try and navigate your materials. Colleen addresses some helpful hints about labeling things, reducing clutter, and some culprits in inaccessibility online.

Check out these links for more help on designing with inclusion in mind, and don’t forget to write in with feedback and questions: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com!

US Accessibility Standards for IT

Designing for Inclusion

WebAIM (Web Accessibility in Mind)

Episode 16 – Independence in Travel

Colleen Connor — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 20:26:33 +0000

In this follow up to her White Cane Podcast, Colleen addresses more techniques and resources for traveling independently with a visual impairment. Answering some great feedback, she also shares some personal views and tips on the importance of gaining independent living skills. Keep the comments and questions coming this way!

blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 15 – Visual Impairments Worldwide

Colleen Connor — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 02:28:32 +0000

Colleen shares some global statistics and definitions surrounding visual impairments today, bringing light to some of the international efforts to prevent and care for the visually impaired, and striving to inspire people to open their minds and hearts to all.

World Health Organization

Please feel free to request future topics, ask questions, or add comments: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Episode 14 – The Long White Cane

Colleen Connor — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 16:04:36 +0000

This podcast reveals some of the mysteries and misconceptions about The Long White Canes used by the blind and visually impaired. Colleen goes into the basics of why canes are used, how to get them, how to train with them, and what to do once you have one. For sighted listeners, this is a fun and informative sneak peek into observing and helping cane users!

Please feel free to request future topics, ask questions, or add comments: blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

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Happy Holidays

Colleen Connor — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 23:51:28 +0000

Hello! We are taking a bit of a hiatus here at Blind Inspirationcast. Thank you so much for tuning in and commenting or giving feedback! Keep it up, and e-mail blindinspirationcast@gmail.com if you have questions, comments, or any requests. Happy holiday season to everyone, and we will be back with more regular episodes soon!

Cheers,

Colleen and Cheryl

Episode 13 – Election Day

Colleen Connor — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 02:10:50 +0000

Election Day 2012!

In this podcast Colleen discusses her experience with the polls and elections as a visually impaired voter. Colleen explains some of her research on the different ways one can be accommadated during the voting process, and tells her voting story! Best wishes for the American people in this important time.

Did you have a good or bad voting experience? Did you see any disabled voters or help anyone vote?

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Comment below or share your thoughts at blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

Episode 12 – Disability Awareness & Happy Halloween

Colleen Connor — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 01:54:54 +0000

Happy Halloween, everyone, and we hope you had a wonderful Disability Awareness Month. Remember to continue disability awareness all year long.

Colleen reflects on her recent speaking engagement at Cox Communications for a Diversity Council event. She had a great time at the event, and in this episode she relays some of the information she discussed such as her own philosophies, the rise of the HR quotas, and job placement for disabled persons. Also she and Cheryl both want to extend thoughts and support to any who were affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Do you like Disability Awareness Month? What are your experiences with disabilities in the workplace? Email or comment below. Thanks for listening!

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Episode 11 – Eyes in the Night Film Review

Colleen Connor — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:59:34 +0000

Turner Classic Movies’ The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film is running each Tuesday evening in October. Of particular interest to Colleen is the 1942 film Eyes in the Night, which follows a blind detective in his thwarting of a group of murderers and thieves.

Colleen and Cheryl discuss the film and its portrayal of blindness, as well as its overall plot. They really enjoyed watching it as a film in itself and appreciated the somewhat realistic portrayal of a person living with blindness. The main character even uses his blindness to outwit the bad guys, who underestimate him and his seeing eye dog. This is a very fun film and Colleen and Cheryl both reccomend it to anyone who enjoys detective dramas and/or old movies.

Don’t miss the rest of the TCM series. Click for the film lineup.

Eyes in the Night was made in 1942, was directed by Fred Zinnemann, and stars Edward Arnold, Ann Harding, Donna Reed, and Friday the Wonderdog.

Episode 10 – Visually Impaired Performing

Colleen Connor — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 02:03:39 +0000

Welcome back from a hiatus! Colleen has been performing in The Producers recently, and brings that experience to this podcast episode. She talks about how she has learned to perform with her visual impairment, the importance of asking for help, and what other actors can do that might help a cast member with a visual impairment.

Colleen also reminds the listeners, that we can all do anything. Don’t feel like you can’t do something just because of a disability! You can do anything, perhaps just a bit differently than fully sighted people.

Do you have an experience being or working with a visually impaired or blind artist? What challenges and benefits did you find? Email or comment below. Thanks for listening!

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Episode 9 – Visual Hallucinations; or You’re not crazy

Colleen Connor — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 01:58:30 +0000

After a brief hiatus due to life, Blind Inspirationcast is back!

In this episode Colleen Connor is joined by 2 friends, Kelly Verdon and Cheryl Cordingley, to discuss a “Ted Talk” they watched on visual hallucinations. The lecture is given by Oliver Sacks. They delve into some of the science behind these hallucination, called Charles Bone Syndrome, and discuss the main points of the lecture, including the differences between visual and psychotic hallucinations. These hallucinations by definition only occur in people who are blind or visually impaired. These particular hallucinations are not symptoms of any sort of mental disorder, and if you experience these, you should tell your doctor.

Have you or someone you know ever experienced visual hallucinations? Email or comment below.

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Episode 8 – October on TCM is About Disabilities in Film

Colleen Connor — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 22:32:00 +0000

Turner Classic Movies, a television channel that focuses on classic films, has partnered with Inclusion in the Arts this October to bring you The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film. This program will showcase films up through the 1980’s that deal with disabilities of all sorts, including blindness, deafness, intellectual disabilities, psychological disabilities, and newly disabled veterans.

Colleen gives a run-down of some of the headliners, some of her thoughts on the line-up, and explains some of the big players behind the program. She is really excited about the event and what it will cover in terms of society’s perception of people with disabilities.

Check out TCM’s website for the full schedule and more information.

Are you excited about this event? Which movies will you be watching? Want to hear Colleen’s thoughts on any of them in particular? Email or comment below.

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Episode 7 – Cures for Blindness

Colleen Connor — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 23:15:55 +0000

SCIENCE JAWN! In this episode Colleen relays her experience with this article about sight restoration for the blind and vision impaired. The article is from e! Science News, and discusses a recent study published by Stanford University, where scientists have developed an infrared and photovoltaic system to restore stimulation to damaged retinas.
Have you read any articles about recent developments in curing blindness? Email or comment with your thoughts!

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Episode 6 – Dame Determination

Colleen Connor — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 23:09:10 +0000

Colleen found the following article this article discussing the famed actress Dame Judi Dench.

She discusses the article and Dench’s interview about her recent diagnosis with a visual impairment known as macular degeneration. Colleen talks about the success one can still have as a blind or legally blind performer, and how it is important to focus on what you CAN do and not to give up!

What celebrities inspire you? Got any good stories about celebrities dealing with disabilities? Email or comment with your thoughts!

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Episode 5 – Cone-Rod Dystrophy (CRD)

Colleen Connor — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 03:32:17 +0000

In this episode Colleen talks about her specific visual impairment, Cone-Rod Dystrophy, how it classifies her as ‘Legally Blind,’ and how she has learned to work with it in her life. It focuses mainly on CRD but touches on symptoms and the visual perceptions of many people who are visually impaired. The article Colleen talks about can be found here: http://www.mdsupport.org/library/conerod.html

Do you or a friend have a visual impairment or any other type of disability? How does it impact your perception of the world? Email or comment with your thoughts!

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Doctor Who S01 E08

Colleen Connor — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 01:58:00 +0000

Father’s Day

Happy Father’s Day! The Doctor and Rose go back in time and end up saving Rose’s father from death, which in turn causes the end of the world, of course. Colleen is a bit perturbed with Rose’s actions, and Cheryl discovers that the audience got Rick-Rolled. They discuss the rules of time travel and how you are important.

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Doctor Who S01 E07

Colleen Connor — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 02:39:50 +0000

The Long Game

The Doctor, Rose, and Adam go to the year 200,000, where Adam gets brain surgery from corrupt reporters being controlled by a really big alien. In this episode Colleen and Cheryl fail to hide their dislike/hatred of Adam. Colleen rants about the use of flashlights and celebrates the fact that the characters live.

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Episode 4 – Appearance

Colleen Connor — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 15:58:23 +0000

Today Colleen talks about how people with visual impairments appear to those around them. She discussed the standard image that most people think of: someone walking with sunglasses and a cane. She describes why these items may or may not be necessary for both the person using them and the people around him/her. Remember that every person is different, so the best thing to do is ask someone if they need help.

Email or comment with your stories about visual impairments.

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Doctor Who S01 E06

Colleen Connor — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 20:14:52 +0000

Dalek

In this episode we get to meet one of the Doctor’s oldest enemies: a Dalek, who joins us for part of the podcast. We learn more about the Doctor’s past and see the man who supposedly owns the internet now living underground in Utah. Colleen is not buying the Doctor’s more emotional scenes, and Cheryl is pretty annoyed at both Rose and Adam.

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Doctor Who S01 E04 E05

Colleen Connor — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:51:32 +0000

Aliens of London, World War III

In the first two-parter of the season, Colleen and Cheryl discuss Rose’s trip back to her mother’s house accidentally a year after she had left. They talk about the new information about the Doctor, aliens taking over the government, other aliens crashing into earth, and the implausible survival of the Doctor, Rose, and Harriet Jones.

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Doctor Who Podcast S01 E03

Colleen Connor — Tue, 15 May 2012 02:00:37 +0000

The Doctor and Rose meet Charles Dickens in 1869 Cardiff, Wales and discover some ghost-aliens inhabiting corpses. Colleen freaks out about the time period, and Cheryl tries to explain what the aliens look like.

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Episode 03 – Screw you, vending machines!

Colleen Connor — Fri, 11 May 2012 03:28:13 +0000

This week Colleen brings you a short rant about the accessibility (or lack thereof) of vending machines, recorded on a break from her job. Her points include the lack of braille and the smooth barrier keeping her far from the products. Sometimes your only option is to ask for help, and that’s always frustrating.

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Doctor Who Podcast S01 E02

Colleen Connor — Mon, 07 May 2012 16:22:15 +0000

In this second episode of theDoctor Who feature, Colleen and Cheryl discuss episode 2, The End of the World. They spoil the whole episode. Seriously, if you want to watch the episode, they suggest you do that before listening to the podcast. They reveal more of their nerd selves, discussing spaceships, aliens, sun filters, and teleportation.

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Episode 02 – Social Media FAIL!

Colleen Connor — Fri, 04 May 2012 02:45:55 +0000

In this episode Colleen discusses the challenges posed to visually impaired and blind users of social media networks and interactive websites. As a young adult, many of her friends communicate using social networking sites that are primarily visual, and even after using the “Help” settings Colleen still finds challenges in trying to view certain programs.
Colleen reviews:
Pottermore – Overlapping boxes, images not showing up on customized screens
Facebook – Screen readers get confused, tagged photos don’t show up properly
Text messages and phones reading them aloud
Twitter – Screen readers get confused
Asking for help and being dependent on others for technology

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Doctor Who Podcast S01 E01

Colleen Connor — Tue, 01 May 2012 00:06:05 +0000

The first podcast about Doctor Who! Colleen is joined by her friend, Cheryl, to review the first episode of the BBC’s revamp of Doctor Who beginning in 2005. Colleen is watching this series for the first time, while Cheryl has watched the series before. This will be a regular feature on Blind Inspirationcast; they will be reviewing the episodes as they watch each one. Colleen touches on what it is like to watch a TV series with a visual impairment.

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Episode 01 – Ease of Access

Colleen Connor — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 02:25:18 +0000

In this first episode, Colleen discusses changing visual and audio settings on your computer to suit you! It’s based on Windows as an operating system, and walks through some of the accessibility options you have for optimizing your screen to help you view your computer better.

Because she still has some eyesight, Colleen is able to use High Contrast Black to read the screen better, but also uses screen reading software. She also touches on some built-in zoom options, mouse controls, and how websites act with these settings.

What helps you see or hear what is on your screen?

Email us at blindinspirationcast@gmail.com

Introduction

Colleen Connor — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:25:17 +0000

Colleen introduces herself and this, her first podcast ever.

Colleen will talk about living with a visual impairment/legal blindness and how she finds inspiration. She will discuss everything from technology to society to TV/film to her acting and writing career. This podcast will focus on providing knowledge, skills, and inspiration to anyone who is listening.