Episodes

  • Envision Blind Sports Part 1

    Envision Blind Sports Part 1
    Nov 21 2024
    In this engaging episode of The Blind Chick, hosts Penn Street and Moses Street sit down with Wendy Fagan, founder of Envision Blind Sports, to discuss the life-changing impact of adaptive sports for blind and visually impaired individuals. Wendy shares her journey from discovering goalball and beat baseball to founding Envision Blind Sports, a nonprofit that introduces participants to over 25 different sports and activities.
    Together, they explore how sports can break stereotypes, inspire confidence, and foster independence. Wendy shares heartwarming stories of athletes who found joy and purpose through adaptive sports, while emphasizing the importance of exposing participants to a variety of opportunities. From rock climbing to skiing, Envision Blind Sports is helping athletes discover their passions and integrate into their local communities.
    The episode also delves into the broader challenges and misconceptions surrounding blindness and adaptive sports. Wendy and the hosts discuss how sports can be a universal language, breaking barriers and bringing people together.
    Looking ahead, the hosts preview part two of their conversation with Wendy, as well as upcoming special episodes, including a Thanksgiving message and highlights from Colorado Gives Day.

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 – Welcome and introduction.
    05:10 – Meet Wendy Fagan.
    07:34 – Origins of The Blind Chick podcast.
    12:20 – Discovering adaptive sports.
    14:24 – About Envision Blind Sports.
    19:02 – Breaking stereotypes in sports.
    23:42 – Inspiring inclusion through education.
    27:50 – Part two preview and closing.

    Contact Information:
    Aftersight is a nonprofit organization producing The Blind Chick podcast and other empowering content for the blind and visually impaired community. Support their work through donations, and check out their other podcasts:
    Website: Aftersight.org
    Phone: (720) 712-8856
    Email: feedback@aftersight.org

    Envision Blind Sports
    Envision Blind Sports introduces individuals to adaptive sports, fostering confidence, independence, and joy through movement. With programs spanning 25+ sports, they empower participants of all ages to discover their passions.
    Website: EnvisionBlindSports.org

    Colorado Gives Day
    Support Aftersight this Colorado Gives Day on December 10th! Your donations help fund inclusive programming like The Blind Chick, making a difference in the lives of blind and visually impaired individuals.
    Donate Here: ColoradoGives.org

    Join us next week for part two of our conversation with Wendy Fagan, and don’t miss our Thanksgiving message from Penn and Moses. Keep tuning in, and thank you for being part of the Blind Chick family!
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    26 mins
  • Uncommon Vision: Matt Hendrick on Art, UFOs, and Purpose

    Uncommon Vision: Matt Hendrick on Art, UFOs, and Purpose
    Nov 14 2024
    Join hosts Penn and Moses as they continue their captivating conversation with Matt Hendrick in the second installment of his story. Matt delves deeper into his extraordinary life journey, sharing more about his out-of-body experiences, encounters with the unexplainable, and the artistic inspirations that shape his unique style. The episode highlights the role of disability in discovering purpose, finding beauty in unexpected places, and the uncharted paths that emerge from life’s challenges. Tune in to explore thought-provoking discussions on spirituality, art, and resilience.

    Contact Information

    Matt Hendrick:
    Website: hendrickmedia.com
    Social Media: @MattHendrickArt on Facebook and Instagram
    Book: Uncommon Vision: Embracing the Unseen

    Aftersight:
    Email: info@aftersight.org
    Contact Number: (720) 712-8856
    Website: aftersight.org

    Support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day! Help us continue producing impactful content by contributing to Aftersight this holiday season. Colorado Gives Day is December 10th, and every donation fuels our mission to create accessible resources for the blind and low-vision community. Your contributions make a difference in building a more inclusive world. Donations are tax-deductible, and every dollar counts toward creating content like The Blind Chick.

    Chapter Markers
    00:00 - Introduction and Colorado Gives Day
    02:12 - Matt’s Experiences with UFOs and Openness
    04:36 - Spiritual Encounters and Family Reflections
    06:22 - Guardian Angel Memories and Childhood Stories
    08:38 - Discussion on Ancient Art and Mysticism
    10:59 - Artistic Inspiration and Techniques
    13:21 - Use of AI in Art and Creating Alien Imagery
    15:21 - Reflections on Disability and Purpose
    17:45 - Facing Life with a Disability and Needing Support
    20:09 - Finding Connection Through Disability
    22:34 - Contact Information for Matt and Final Thoughts
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    26 mins
  • Uncommon Vision: The Matt Hendrick Story Part 1

    Uncommon Vision: The Matt Hendrick Story Part 1
    Nov 7 2024
    In this captivating episode of The Blind Chick, hosts Penn and Moses Street sit down with artist and author Matt Hendrick to explore his remarkable journey. Matt, who has survived numerous near-death experiences, shares his inspiring path from a life-altering car accident to becoming an artist who paints using his mouth and hand. His newest book, Uncommon Vision: Embracing the Unseen, delves into his experiences and the profound insights he's gained from his journey, including unique perceptions, synchronicities, and the spiritual connections he's encountered. Matt also reveals his creative process, including how he utilized technology like ChatGPT to craft his memoir, bringing his story to life in ways he hadn't imagined.
    Penn and Moses, known for their own adventurous lives, connect with Matt's experiences of life beyond physical limitations and share anecdotes about spiritual connections and the role of art and storytelling in processing trauma and celebrating resilience.
    Stay tuned for Part Two next week, where Matt delves even further into his life and experiences.

    Resources and Contact Information:
    Matt's Book: Uncommon Vision: Embracing the Unseen – Available in audiobook, Kindle, and paperback.

    Support Aftersight for Colorado Gives Day (December 10th): Donate and support shows like The Blind Chick, Blindsight, Navigating Life with Vision Loss, and Blind Level Tech. Your contributions make it possible to produce accessible content for the blind community.
    Colorado Gives Day Donation Link

    Contact Us:
    Aftersight Contact Information:
    Phone: (720) 712-8856
    Email: feedback@aftersight.org

    Thank you for listening and supporting accessible storytelling. Be kind to yourself and others—it’s good for the soul!

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 – Moses introduces his mountain lion story and The Blind Chick podcast.
    02:23 – Moses and Penn share about meeting new friends on the trail.
    04:50 – Matt describes his journey with painting as a quadriplegic.
    07:15 – Matt discusses the process of writing his memoir.
    09:40 – Matt and hosts discuss near-death experiences and spirituality.
    12:06 – Moses shares his own experiences with premonitions and intuition.
    14:30 – Penn talks about her connection with her angel, Casey.
    16:53 – Penn recalls her childhood near-death experience.
    19:21 – Matt and hosts discuss finding balance in spiritual connection.
    21:47 – Jonathan closes Part One, encourages Colorado Gives Day donations, and thanks listeners.
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    26 mins
  • You Want Me to Boat Race?

    You Want Me to Boat Race?
    Oct 31 2024
    The Blind Chick Podcast Summary
    In this episode of The Blind Chick, your hosts Penn and Moses Street dive into a conversation with Chelsea Elder from Adaptive Adventures. Together, they explore the power of adaptive sports and how they create a supportive, tight-knit community for people with disabilities. Chelsea shares the excitement of their unique Dragon Boat Racing program and how it fosters camaraderie and confidence, especially for participants with blindness or low vision. She also highlights other inclusive programs at Adaptive Adventures, from kayaking and paddleboarding to indoor fitness and climbing.
    Throughout this episode, you'll learn how Adaptive Adventures works to reduce barriers for individuals of all abilities, connecting them to a range of year-round activities and even offering specialized programs for veterans. Don’t miss this inspiring discussion on how these adaptive programs empower participants to embrace challenges and discover new passions.

    Contact Information:
    Aftersight
    Website: aftersight.org
    Phone: (720) 712-8856
    Email: feedback@aftersight.org

    Adaptive Adventures
    Website: adaptiveadventures.org
    Email: info@adaptiveadventures.org

    Colorado Gives Day
    Support Aftersight and Adaptive Adventures on Colorado Gives Day, happening on December 10th! Your donations help keep these programs thriving and accessible. Contribute to help expand resources for the blind and low vision community across Colorado.

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 – Welcome to The Blind Chick
    00:28 – Message from Producer Jonathan Price
    02:43 – Introducing Chelsea Elder and Adaptive Adventures
    04:34 – Dragon Boat Racing and Community Building
    06:53 – The Spirit of Dragon Boat Racing
    09:11 – Benefits of Adaptive Adventures Programs
    11:27 – Getting Started with Adaptive Adventures
    13:44 – Dragon Boat Seasons and Continuation
    16:03 – Access Adventure Days and Multi-Sport Events
    18:15 – Adaptive Adventures Funding and Corporate Partnerships
    18:42 – Winter Programs and Indoor Activities
    20:48 – Veterans and PTSD Programs
    22:55 – How to Get Involved and Volunteer
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    27 mins
  • Who Said You Needed Sight to Play Sports?

    Who Said You Needed Sight to Play Sports?
    Oct 24 2024
    Join hosts Penn and Moses Street as they tackle misconceptions about blindness and share personal, humorous stories in this episode of The Blind Chick. They’re joined by Chelsea Elder from Adaptive Adventures, who highlights the life-changing impact of adaptive sports programs. Chelsea shares how her organization provides outdoor recreation opportunities across the country for people with disabilities, along with their families and caregivers.
    From kayaking to Dragon Boat racing, this episode shows that blindness is just the beginning of the adventure.
    For more on Adaptive Adventures, visit adaptiveadventures.org. Have questions or comments for The Blind Chick? Reach out at (720) 712-8856 or email feedback@aftersight.org.
    Also, don’t forget that Colorado Gives Day is coming up on December 10th! Donations open on November 1st and support Aftersight’s mission. Make a difference by contributing—it's a great tax write-off and helps us continue our work! Visit coloradogives.org for more information and to donate.
    Takeaways
    Blindness is often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions about what blind people look like.
    Adaptive Adventures provides inclusive sports opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families.
    Community engagement is crucial for creating sustainable adaptive sports programs.
    Lived experience among staff enhances the support provided to participants.
    Adaptive sports can help individuals with disabilities regain confidence and independence.
    Inclusion of families in adaptive sports fosters a sense of togetherness and support.
    The importance of collaboration with other organizations to expand resources and reach.
    Celebrating small victories can lead to significant changes in individuals' lives.
    Adaptive Adventures focuses on removing barriers to participation in sports.
    Creating a supportive community is essential for the success of adaptive sports programs.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to The Blind Chick Podcast
    02:50 Exploring Blindness and Perception
    06:00 Adaptive Adventures: A Passion for Inclusion
    12:05 Community Engagement and Support
    18:46 The Importance of Lived Experience
    24:00 Celebrating Achievements and Community
    26:53 Conclusion and Future Discussions
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    29 mins
  • Blind Chick Designs Part 2

    Blind Chick Designs Part 2
    Oct 17 2024
    Welcome back to The Blind Chick! In this episode, Penn and Moses continue their conversation with Tricia, the founder of Blind Girl Designs. Tricia shares her journey in the fashion industry as a blind business owner, discussing how she uses her white cane as a symbol of freedom and how her designs break down stereotypes around blindness. She talks about the inspiration behind her products, the importance of accessibility, and the empowering connections she's made within the blind community. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience and creativity!
    Contact Info:
    Website: Blind Girl Designs
    Phone: (862) 448-1011
    Support Aftersight: aftersight.org
    Remember to be kind to yourself and someone else—it's good for your soul.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to The Blind Chick Podcast
    00:30 Revisiting Tricia's Journey
    01:53 Navigating Challenges in Design
    05:17 Embracing the White Cane
    06:45 Designs that Spark Conversations
    10:29 Creative Inspirations and Collaborations
    14:16 Breaking Stereotypes of Blindness
    19:27 The Impact of Social Media on Blindness Awareness
    22:51 Reflections on Identity and Adversity
    24:40 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
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    28 mins
  • Blind Girl Designs: Tricia Waechter Part 1

    Blind Girl Designs: Tricia Waechter Part 1
    Oct 10 2024
    In this episode of The Blind Chick, hosts Penn and Moses Street share their relaxing getaway to Colorado’s Hot Sulphur Springs, discussing the importance of self-care and rejuvenation.
    Special guest Tricia Waechter joins the conversation, sharing her journey with vision loss and how she built her company, Blind Girl Designs, after transitioning from a career in fashion.
    This episode is full of humor, heart, and inspiration, reminding us all to embrace life’s challenges. Don’t miss part two next week!
    #TheBlindChick #BlindGirlDesigns #SelfCare #VisionLoss #Resilience
    Takeaways
    Self-care is essential for mental and physical well-being.
    Hot springs can provide a unique and rejuvenating experience.
    Living with vision loss presents unexpected challenges.
    Transitioning to blindness can be a difficult journey.
    Building a business can be a way to reclaim independence.
    Community support is vital for those with disabilities.
    Self-accommodation is a common experience for those with vision loss.
    The fashion industry can be inclusive and adaptive.
    Embracing change can lead to new opportunities.
    Finding joy in small moments is important.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to The Blind Chick Podcast
    02:23 The Importance of Self-Care
    04:41 Living with Vision Loss
    12:49 Transitioning to Blindness and New Beginnings
    23:28 Building Blind Girl Designs
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    25 mins
  • Evan Schwabrock's Journey: Fitness, Empowerment, and Thriving with Vision Loss

    Evan Schwabrock's Journey: Fitness, Empowerment, and Thriving with Vision Loss
    Oct 3 2024
    In this episode of The Blind Chick podcast, hosts Penn and Moses Street dive into an inspiring conversation with Evan Schwabrock, who opens up about his journey of adapting to vision loss from Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy. Evan shares the real challenges he’s faced—both personally and from societal misconceptions about blindness—and how he’s pushed through to prove his capabilities. He also talks about his passion for fitness and empowerment through his initiative, Kane and Able Fitness, which is dedicated to helping the visually impaired community reach their fitness goals. You can learn more about his work at KaneAndAbleFitness.com.
    If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Aftersight at (720) 712-8856 or email feedback@aftersight.org. Tune in to hear how physical fitness can fuel personal growth and help overcome life's obstacles.
    Takeaways
    Blindness can be an adventure if we embrace it.
    Vision loss is only a barrier if we let it be.
    Adapting to vision loss requires determination and support.
    Societal perceptions often underestimate the capabilities of the blind.
    Fitness can empower individuals with visual impairments.
    Kane and Able Fitness aims to provide accessible fitness resources.
    Overcoming challenges in fitness can translate to life skills.
    Movement should be enjoyable, not a punishment.
    Personal growth often starts with physical fitness.
    Everyone deserves to feel confident and capable, regardless of disability.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Blindness
    02:25 Evan's Diagnosis and Initial Challenges
    07:33 Adapting to Vision Loss and Independent Living
    12:09 Overcoming Societal Doubts and Misconceptions
    17:00 Kane and Able Fitness: Empowering the Visually Impaired
    23:00 The Broader Impact of Fitness on Life Goals
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    29 mins