Limitless: Blind Beginnings Podcast

Episode 220 - Kristin Smedley & The Thriving Blind Academy

In this episode, Shawn sits down with Kristin Smedley, founder of Thriving Blind Academy, author, and mother of two blind sons. Kristin shares her transformative journey from struggling with her sons' blindness to becoming a passionate advocate for the blindness community and her creation of the Thriving Blind Academy. She reveals her groundbreaking "THRIVER Formula" - ...

Content warning: Mature themes discussed.

In this episode, Shawn welcomes guests Keisha and Ellis and the three dive deep into the often-overlooked topic of sexual health and sex education for individuals who are blind or have low vision. Challenging the misconception that people with disabilities are non-sexual, this candid conversation explores the unique challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in learning about their b...

This week Shawn, Nika, and Kaia continue their discussion of the intersection of autism and blindness, discussing topics such as the challenges of taking tests, the impact of assistive technology, and the difficulties of advocating for needs during times of overwhelm. From discussing Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) to unpacking media representation, they continue this important discussion that offers insights into neurodiversit...

Dive into the fascinating world where visual impairment meets neurodiversity in this very important episode as Shawn welcomes Kaia and Nika, who share their personal experiences navigating the intersection of autism and visual impairment. Discover the hidden challenges, unique perspectives, and powerful insights of living with intersecting disabilities. From sensory overwhelm to accessing education and medical services, we break do...

It's a very special episode of Limitless this week as Shawn steps in to guest host for AT Banter to talk with the one and only Jennie Bovard, star of AMI’s new comedy series, Pretty Blind! Dive behind the scenes as Jennie shares hilarious stories from set, reveals how real-life moments from her lived experience inspired the show’s characters and situations, and the challenges, triumphs, and importance of authentic disability repres...

What does it mean to be proud of your disability? Join Shawn and co-hosts Aman and Ishita as they dive deep into Disability Pride Month, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the strength, resilience, and unique perspectives of the disability community. They explore the history and significance of Disability Pride Month, share personal stories of acceptance and empowerment, and reflect on hopes for the future in terms of disabili...

This week on the podcast we once again feature a youth-led episode, this time hosted by Evan, a 15-year old high school student. Even dives into his experiences playing golf and curling and is joined by his coaches where they break down the practical strategies he uses to navigate sports, the importance of clear communication, and how he advocates for himself. Hear a candid conversation about adapting techniques, team dynamics, and...

In this episode of Limitless, co-host Clement dives into the nuts and bolts of his 10-year Aikido journey—from white belt to black belt. He talks through the practical challenges he faced finding a dojo open to teaching someone without sight and how he adapted traditional drills and techniques to fit his needs. Clement breaks down the three guiding principles that kept him on the mat—patience (learning at your own pace), perseveran...

In this special stylish episode of the podcast, we hand over the podcast to some of our youth once again as Acacia and Nika talk about all things fashion, makeup, and accessories—from a blind and partially sighted perspective!  Tune in as they spill the tea on navigating the fashion world when you can’t always see what’s in your closet. From choosing clothes that work with your mobility, to tackling the challenges of low contrast a...

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the powerful impact of early intervention for children who are blind or partially sighted as Shawn welcomes Beverly, Team Lead for Early Intervention at Blind Beginnings to share how the program supports families and helps children build critical developmental skills that shape their independence and quality of life. Learn why sensory-rich experiences are essential for children with Cort...

Shawn welcomes back Kaia and Rob this episode to continue their discussion on the incredible ways artificial intelligence is transforming life for individuals who are blind or partially sighted. Kaia shares how AI is helping her push creative boundaries in art and 3D modeling, and streamlining everyday tasks, from generating alt text to using video description tools like Seeing AI and PiccyBot. Rob dives into the practical side of ...

This week on the podcast, Shawn and Ishita welcome special guest Shawna Lawson for a timely conversation in honour of National AccessAbility Week, taking place this year from May 25 to June 1. Together, they explore the importance of this national initiative and the critical need for ongoing efforts toward disability inclusion in all areas of society. Shawna brings a unique dual perspective to the conversation, not only as Presiden...

In this episode of the Limitless Podcast, Shawn welcomes Kaia, Rob and Jill to the podcast to explore how mainstream AI is being integrated into technology and affecting life for the blind and partially sighted community. Kaia, a Grade 11 student with low vision, shares how she uses powerful AI tools like Seeing AI, Grammarly, ChatGPT, and a host of other apps to make school and daily life more accessible. Jill, on the other hand, ...

Ever dreamed of exploring Japan? How about doing it without sighted assistance? Get ready for an epic adventure on this episode as Shawn chats with an intrepid trio – Clement, Russell, and Aman – who didn't just dream of visiting Japan, they made it happen. Follow their journey through bustling Tokyo, vibrant Osaka, and Fukuoka and discover how Clement, (who is totally blind and fluent in Japanese), masterminded the logistics, and ...

In this special episode of the podcast, Shawn turns the mic onto one of the podcast's very own co-hosts, Jinnie to get to know her better. Jinnie shares her personal journey, including her experience with bilateral microplia, her long-standing involvement with Blind Beginnings, and her passion for creative writing. Jinnie gives her perspective on the challenges and nuances of accessing literature in desired formats, discusses the p...

Recently, two of our regular podcast co-hosts -  Keisha and Jinnie - secured speaking roles on the Hallmark television series, “When Calls the Heart”. In this episode of the podcast, Shawn welcomes them along with the director of the episode, Siobhan Divine, to talk about the experience. From an inclusive casting process, accessible script, and on-set accommodations, they talk about the cast and crew’s collaborative effort to ensur...

On this special episode of the Limitless Podcast, we’re handing the mic over to our Youth! Acacia takes the lead in hosting a discussion with Ishita and Romina about the experience of watching sports as a blind or partially sighted fan. Together with Acacia, they share personal insights on using magnifiers, apps, and other tools to stay connected to the action and explore the thrill of live events. They also dive into the importanc...

In this episode of Limitless, Shawn is joined by co-hosts Keisha, Jinnie, and Jill for an open and honest conversation about mobility as blind or partially sighted individuals. They share personal experiences, frustrations, and triumphs—from the challenges of learning new routes to the invaluable role of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training. Together, they dive into the complexities of mental mapping, the power of self-relia...

Join us for a fascinating and insightful conversation as Shawn invites a panel of guests to discuss language used to describe vision impairment within the blind and partially sighted community. Guests Randi, Ishita, Amy, and Dougie share their experiences and preferences for terms like "blind," "visually impaired," "partially sighted," and "low vision" and the importance of using inclusive language that resonates with individuals a...