Summary In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren and co-host Jonathan Price delve into the concept of mindfulness, discussing its significance in mental health and practical techniques for incorporating mindfulness into daily life. They explore the importance of being present, the benefits of mindful walking, body scans, and deep breathing exercises, and guide listeners through a meditative experience to foster relaxation and self-awareness. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of paying attention to our bodies and mental states to enhance overall well-being. Takeaways Mindfulness is about being present in the moment. Practicing mindfulness can help reduce anxiety and stress. Mindful walking involves paying attention to your surroundings. Body scans can help identify areas of tension in the body. Deep breathing techniques stimulate the calm center of the brain. Mindfulness can improve mental health and self-awareness. Visualization can enhance meditation experiences. Creating a safe mental space can aid in relaxation. Mindfulness encourages appreciation of the present moment. Listening to your body is crucial for overall well-being. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness 02:55 Understanding Mindfulness and Its Importance 06:11 Mindfulness Techniques: Body Scan and Breathing 11:57 The Role of Mindfulness in Mental Health 18:01 Meditation Techniques for Relaxation 30:06 Conclusion and Reflection on Mindfulness

You asked, we're giving answers on today's episode of Blindsight. If you would like to have your question answered on the show, email us at feedback@aftersight.org or give us a call at (720) 712-8856. In this conversation... ...Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss how to deal with transitions. They emphasize the importance of finding gratitude in all kinds of transitions and being open to positive moments that can ease the pain. They also discuss the balance between work and family, and the guilt that can come with prioritizing one over the other. They explore the early signs that a life transition is impacting mental health and offer suggestions for addressing it. They also discuss the challenges of being a new parent and the need for self-compassion and patience during this transition. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of self-care, self-reflection, and finding balance during times of transition. Takeaways Find gratitude in all kinds of transitions and look for positive moments that can ease the pain. Balance work and family by making choices based on your values and priorities. Recognize the early signs that a life transition is impacting your mental health and seek support if needed. Practice self-compassion and allow room for mistakes during times of transition. Embrace the season of life you are in and learn from the challenges and growth opportunities it presents. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Gratitude in Transitions 06:03 Balancing Work and Family 17:37 Recognizing the Impact of Transitions on Mental Health 23:35 Practicing Self-Compassion During Life Transitions 28:56 Embracing the Season of Life

We all know you love listening to Blindsight! While you're listening, why don't you send us a question you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org or give us a call at 720-712-8856. We just might air your question on the air. In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the topic of transitions and the challenges that come with them. They explore the different types of transitions, such as changing schools, getting married, retiring, and moving to a new city. They highlight the importance of understanding the severity of a transition and the need for a combination of emotional and logical thinking. They also discuss the feelings of uncertainty, fear, loss of routine, and identity crisis that often accompany transitions. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-care, seeking support, and maintaining clarity of goals during transitions. Takeaways Transitions can be challenging and involve uncertainty, fear, loss of routine, and identity crisis. Understanding the severity of a transition and the need for a combination of emotional and logical thinking is important. Self-care, seeking support, and maintaining clarity of goals are crucial during transitions. Transitions can be managed effectively with the right mindset and preparation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:13 Different Types of Transitions 06:30 Understanding the Severity of Transitions 09:27 Distress and Eustress in Transitions 12:43 Loss of Routine and Identity Crisis in Transitions 15:49 The Importance of Self-Care and Support during Transitions 18:07 Maintaining Clarity of Goals in Transitions 21:41 Coping Mechanisms for Transitions 25:09 Seeking Help and Taking Breaks 28:20 Respecting Yourself and Managing Stress in Transitions 31:08 Conclusion

Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions for Bill, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or if you prefer, you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org. On today's show… Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the importance of self-advocacy and the barriers that prevent people from advocating for themselves. They explore the fear of failure and the fear of success as common reasons for procrastination and resistance to change. They also touch on the role of shame and the need for self-care in the process of self-advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of taking small steps, setting realistic goals, and being kind to oneself throughout the journey of self-advocacy. Takeaways Self-advocacy requires identifying the barriers that prevent us from advocating for ourselves. Fear of failure and fear of success are common reasons for procrastination and resistance to change. Shame and a lack of self-care can hinder self-advocacy. Taking small steps and setting realistic goals are key to successful self-advocacy. Being kind to oneself throughout the process of self-advocacy is important. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context 01:50 Identifying the Barriers to Self-Advocacy 05:05 Understanding the Fear of Failure and Success 09:24 The Role of Shame and Self-Care in Self-Advocacy 12:30 Taking Small Steps and Setting Realistic Goals 15:54 Being Kind to Yourself Throughout the Journey of Self-Advocacy 18:28 Overcoming Resistance and Seeking Help 21:50 Empowering Yourself to Make Changes 26:05 Rewarding Yourself and Celebrating Success 29:01 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Summary In this episode, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the importance of advocating for oneself in mental health. They highlight the tendency for individuals to feel intimidated by professionals and the need to overcome this barrier. They emphasize the importance of self-protection and self-reliance, especially when it comes to mental health care. They discuss the role of therapy as a partnership and the need for individuals to provide guidance and share their unique history with therapists. They also touch on the importance of finding the right therapist, taking medication responsibly, and being an active participant in therapy. They tease a future episode on the reasons why people may struggle to advocate for themselves. Takeaways Advocating for oneself in mental health is crucial for receiving appropriate care and support. Individuals should not feel intimidated by professionals and should overcome the barrier of self-protection. Therapy is a partnership where individuals need to provide guidance and share their unique history. Finding the right therapist, taking medication responsibly, and being an active participant in therapy are important aspects of self-advocacy. Future episodes will explore the reasons why people may struggle to advocate for themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Importance of Advocacy in Mental Health 03:29 Teaching Children to Advocate for Themselves 06:28 Seeking Professional Help in Crisis Situations 09:23 Finding the Right Therapist and Discussing Disabilities 13:44 Sharing Personal History and Medication Details 19:30 Open Communication and Terminating Therapy if Necessary 23:23 Exploring the Reasons Behind the Struggle to Advocate for Oneself Thank you for joining us this week on blindsight. IF you have a question, contact us below at Feedback@aftersight.org (720) 712-8856

Summary In this episode, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the topic of depression, particularly in individuals with blindness. They explore the concept of learned helplessness and how it can contribute to depression. Bill shares his personal experience of receiving the diagnosis of blindness and how it motivated him to make positive changes in his life. They emphasize the importance of autonomy and self-reliance for individuals with blindness, as well as the need for support from family and friends. They also discuss the link between blindness and alcoholism and provide resources for those seeking help. Takeaways Blindness does not cause depression, but individuals with blindness may be more prone to depression due to the loss of visual cues and the challenges they face. Learned helplessness can contribute to depression, and it is important for individuals with blindness to believe in their ability to make changes and have control over their lives. Support from family and friends is crucial, but it is also important for them to allow individuals with blindness to have autonomy and make their own decisions. Blindness is not a limitation, but rather a different way of doing things. It is important to try new things and take risks, gradually building confidence and independence. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:58 Topic Introduction: Depression in Individuals with Blindness 03:23 Understanding Depression and Learned Helplessness 08:49 The Importance of Autonomy and Self-Reliance 15:03 Supporting Individuals with Blindness 21:18 The Link Between Blindness and Alcoholism 31:42 Taking Risks and Building Confidence 34:03 Conclusion and Farewell Thank you for checking out this episode of Game Changers. If you have any quiestions please give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week!

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss how to keep your sanity in a somewhat insane election season. They emphasize the importance of self-care and communication when dealing with differing opinions. They encourage curiosity and understanding when engaging in discussions with others, and highlight the need to balance emotion and logic. They also suggest taking breaks from news and social media to reduce stress and anxiety. Overall, the conversation promotes open-mindedness and civil discourse. Takeaways Practice self-care and take breaks from news and social media to reduce stress and anxiety. Approach discussions with curiosity and a desire to understand the other person's perspective. Balance emotion and logic when engaging in political discussions. Focus on finding common ground and areas of agreement rather than trying to change someone's mind. Promote open-mindedness and civil discourse in order to foster understanding and productive conversations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:54 The Importance of Self-Care and Communication 05:10 Taking Your Emotional Temperature 09:38 Curiosity and Understanding in Discussions 10:08 Balancing Emotion and Logic in Political Discussions 14:00 Finding Common Ground and Areas of Agreement 18:51 Promoting Open-Mindedness and Civil Discourse 25:30 Taking Breaks and Practicing Self-Care 31:23 Seeking Truth and Understanding 32:46 Closing Thoughts

Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions, please let us know by calling us at (720) 712-8856 or emailing us at feedback@aftersight.org In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the therapeutic benefits of having a dog as a pet, particularly for individuals with mental health issues or disabilities. They highlight how dogs can improve mental health by providing companionship, getting owners outdoors, and offering unconditional love and support. They also touch on the importance of educating the public about guide dogs and service animals, as well as the need for respectful interactions with individuals who have disabilities. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the positive impact that dogs can have on mental well-being. Takeaways Having a dog as a pet can provide therapeutic benefits for individuals with mental health issues or disabilities. Dogs can improve mental health by offering companionship, getting owners outdoors, and providing unconditional love and support. Guide dogs and service animals play a crucial role in assisting individuals with disabilities and should be respected and understood by the public. Educating others about guide dogs and service animals can help create a more inclusive and supportive society. The bond between humans and dogs is unique and can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Discussion of Dogs' Therapeutic Benefits 10:02 Guide Dogs and Service Animals: Assisting Individuals with Disabilities 17:56 Educating the Public: Proper Etiquette for Interacting with Guide Dogs 26:06 The Unconditional Love and Support of Dogs 33:53 The Bond Between Humans and Dogs: A Positive Impact on Mental Well-being

Summary The conversation explores the topic of invisibility and how it affects blind individuals in social situations. It discusses the challenges blind people face in being seen and understood by others, as well as the importance of assertiveness in combating invisibility. The conversation also touches on the role of curiosity and empathy in creating connections with others. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for blind individuals to assert their needs and be treated as equals. Takeaways Blind individuals often face invisibility in social situations, as others may not know how to interact with them. Assertiveness is key in combating invisibility and ensuring that blind individuals are seen and understood. Curiosity and empathy play a crucial role in creating connections with others and breaking down barriers. Blind individuals should feel empowered to assert their needs and be treated as equals in social interactions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Experience of Invisibility 08:09 The Difference Between Assertion and Aggression 13:06 Navigating Social Situations and Challenging Invisibility 20:29 Empowering Blind Individuals and Asserting Needs 25:21 Feeling Unseen and Overcoming Invisibility 29:21 Training Ourselves to Be Less Invisible 36:09 Conclusion and Taking Action Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at feedback@aftersight.org or give us a call at 720-712-8856.

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the importance of involving others in achieving our goals and the challenges of setting boundaries. They explore the issue of asking for help and the shame and insecurity that can come with it. They emphasize the need to advocate for oneself and the importance of establishing connections with others. They provide practical tips for speaking up for what you need and suggest starting small and practicing advocacy regularly. They also highlight the mutual benefit of helping and being helped by others. Takeaways Involving others in achieving our goals is important, but it can be challenging to set boundaries. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a way to learn from others and establish connections. Advocating for oneself is crucial, and it is important to communicate what you need in a respectful manner. Start small and practice advocacy regularly to build confidence and develop the skill. Helping and being helped by others creates a mutual benefit and strengthens relationships. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Involving Others 03:02 Challenges of Setting Boundaries When Asking for Help 08:30 Advocating for Oneself: Speaking Up for What You Need 18:21 Starting Small and Practicing Advocacy 22:58 The Mutual Benefit of Helping and Being Helped 28:20 Conclusion and Call for Feedback Thank you for checking out this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions for Bill, let him know here: (720)712-8856 feedback@aftersight.org

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss the importance of maintaining mental health during an election period. They emphasize the need for respectful and open-minded conversations, curiosity, and the ability to listen to different viewpoints. They also highlight the importance of self-care, taking breaks from political discussions, and focusing on other topics of interest. They discourage violence and emphasize the power of voting and individual actions in creating positive change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:20 Building a Strong Relationship 09:52 Curiosity and Listening 12:33 Dealing with Intimidation 17:05 Approaching Conversations with Humility 22:28 Understanding Different Viewpoints 26:24 Taking Breaks and Objective Thinking 29:35 Discouraging Violence and Prioritizing Self-Care 35:21 Conclusion Thank you for listening to Blindsight! If you have any questions, please give us a call at 720-712-8856. Have a great week.

Summary Heather Solberg discusses the importance of self-acceptance and encouragement in the process of adjusting to vision loss. She emphasizes the role of mental health and self-worth in this journey and highlights the phases of acceptance and grief that veterans may experience. Heather also talks about the importance of peer support and mentorship in helping veterans feel less isolated. She explains the comprehensive approach of the VA's low vision program, which includes goal-setting, evaluation, and access to various resources and devices. Heather encourages veterans to reach out to the VA and explore the services available to them. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 00:58 The Importance of Self-Acceptance and Encouragement 01:58 The Role of Mental Health and Self-Worth 04:50 Finding Support and Connection 08:20 The Comprehensive Approach of the VA's Low Vision Program 13:35 Exploring the Services Available: Reaching Out to the VA Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions for Bill, please give us a phone call at 720-712-8856 and will be sure to put your question on air! Don't forget to register for the hike at www.aftersight.org/hike

Summary In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren discusses VA services for military veterans with Heather Solberg, the Visual Treatment Coordinator at the VA. They cover topics such as enrollment in the VA, the services provided by the VA, the role of family in the program, and the mental health support available. The program serves veterans of all ages and visual difficulties, and offers a range of services including low vision therapy, assistive technology training, and adjustment to vision loss. The VA also provides telehealth services for veterans in rural areas. The episode concludes with a reminder about an upcoming hike and a thank you to service men and women. Takeaways VA services are available to military veterans of all ages and visual difficulties. The VA provides a range of services including low vision therapy, assistive technology training, and adjustment to vision loss. Telehealth services are available for veterans in rural areas. The VA offers mental health support and works closely with the mental health department. Family members are involved in the program and receive support and training. The program aims to help veterans become as independent as possible. The VA has a suicide prevention team available 24/7. The program addresses grief and loss as part of the adjustment to vision loss. Independence is defined differently for each individual and is not limited to traditional notions of independence. The episode concludes with a reminder about an upcoming hike and a thank you to service men and women. Chapters 00:00 VA Services for Military Veterans 04:17 Range of Services and Support 06:19 Telehealth for Rural Veterans 07:18 Mental Health Support and Suicide Prevention 09:19 Involvement of Family Members 11:16 Promoting Independence 12:43 Addressing Grief and Loss 16:31 Reimagining Independence Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email or call us. Feedback@aftersight.org 720-712-8856. Have a wonderful holiday weekend.

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Aaron Huey discuss the importance of defining one's own masculinity and taking responsibility for personal growth. They emphasize the need for men to dominate themselves and focus on self-improvement rather than blaming others. They also explore the idea that women no longer need men for traditional roles, and challenge men to find their purpose and create a positive impact in the world. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship and the role of rites of passage in guiding young men towards adulthood. Takeaways Define your own masculinity and focus on self-improvement. Take responsibility for your actions and choices. Women no longer need men for traditional roles, so men must find their purpose and create a positive impact in the world. Mentorship and rites of passage are crucial in guiding young men towards adulthood. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Warning 01:24 Announcement: Hiking Event 03:14 The Changing Role of Men in Society 07:15 The Importance of Mentorship and Rites of Passage 10:08 Taking Responsibility for Personal Growth 25:49 Returning to the Village of Women 26:17 Final Thoughts Listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have a question for Bill, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 and if you want to register for the hike visit us at aftersight.org/hike see you there.

Summary In this episode, the Bill discusses masculinity and its definition with guest Aaron Huey. They explore the stereotypes and challenges associated with masculinity and how it can be redefined in today's society. They also discuss the importance of self-improvement and personal growth for men. The conversation emphasizes the need for men to embrace their emotions, support their partners, and be accountable for their actions. The episode concludes with a reminder to listeners to continue exploring men's mental health and to join a hiking event organized by Aftersight. Takeaways Masculinity is not defined by traditional stereotypes but by personal growth and self-improvement. Men should embrace their emotions and support their partners in a relationship. Accountability is important for men to address their own issues and be responsible for their actions. Exploring men's mental health is an ongoing process that requires open conversations and support. Participating in events like the hiking event organized by Aftersight can promote physical and mental well-being. Chapters 00:00 Redefining Masculinity 10:00 Embracing Emotions 12:52 Accountability and Personal Growth 24:53 Join the Aftersight Hiking Event Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 720-712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Thanks for listening and we'll catch you next week.

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Jonathan Price discuss men's mental health, specifically focusing on anger. They explore different types of anger, including explosive anger, anger that builds up and boils over, and repressed anger. They also discuss unhealthy ways that men often deal with anger, such as violence, road rage, sarcasm, and passive aggressiveness. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging and accepting anger, and finding productive ways to deal with it. The conversation highlights the societal expectations and gender differences that influence how men express and handle anger. In this conversation, Bill and Jonathan discuss healthy ways to process and deal with anger. They emphasize the importance of understanding the root causes of anger and finding positive outlets for it. They explore various strategies such as taking a pause, engaging in physical activity, writing letters, and practicing meditation. They also highlight the significance of effective communication and active listening in resolving conflicts. The conversation concludes with the reminder that anger can be a useful emotion when used correctly and the importance of seeking anger management training. Takeaways Anger is a secondary emotion that is often triggered by underlying primary emotions. Men may feel pressure to suppress their anger and not burden others with their problems. Unhealthy ways that men deal with anger include violence, road rage, sarcasm, and passive aggressiveness. Acknowledging and accepting anger is the first step in finding productive ways to deal with it. Societal expectations and gender differences influence how men express and handle anger. Understanding the root causes of anger is crucial in finding healthy ways to process and deal with it. Taking a pause and engaging in physical activity can help release anger and lower the temperature. Writing letters can be a therapeutic way to express anger and gain clarity. Meditation, both religious and non-religious, can calm the body and mind during moments of anger. Effective communication and active listening are essential in resolving conflicts and understanding each other's perspectives. Anger can be a useful emotion when used correctly, and seeking anger management training can be beneficial. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Announcements 02:28 Casual Conversation about Sunburn 06:24 Primary and Secondary Emotions 09:27 Societal Expectations and Gender Differences 12:27 Men's Reluctance to Express Emotions 14:19 Personal Experiences with Anger 16:11 Unhealthy Ways Men Deal with Anger 19:58 Using Anger Productively 20:15 Using Anger for Positive Change 21:15 Understanding and Processing Anger 22:00 Emotions and Intellect Working Together 23:33 Therapeutic Letter Writing 26:32 Keeping the Temperature Down 30:02 The Calming Power of Meditation 31:28 Teaching Children to Process Anger 33:37 Understanding and Resolving Anger 35:55 Harnessing Anger for Good 36:49 Seeking Anger Management Training Thank you for listening to Blindsight. As always, if you have questions, contact us at (720) 712-8856 or through email at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week.

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren interviews Michael Sullivan about his work in helping men get in touch with themselves through nature therapy. They discuss the benefits of being vulnerable in a safe space, the challenges men face in expressing vulnerability, and the importance of shared experiences among men. They also touch on the issue of isolation and disconnection that many men experience as they get older. In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Michael Sullivan discuss the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature. They explore the idea of using outdoor activities and experiences as a way to promote mental health and well-being. They discuss the importance of getting out of our comfort zones and embracing discomfort in order to grow and learn. They also touch on the impact of nature on our mental health, the power of connecting with animals and the environment, and the need for more outdoor experiences in urban areas. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative potential of nature in promoting emotional healing and personal growth. Takeaways Nature therapy can be an effective tool for helping men get in touch with their emotions and express vulnerability. Being in nature creates a safe space for men to open up and connect with each other. Men often feel pressure to portray themselves as strong and stoic, but allowing themselves to be vulnerable can lead to healthier emotional processing. Shared experiences in nature can foster deeper connections among men and combat feelings of isolation and disconnection. As men age, they may feel more vulnerable and isolated, but finding safe spaces and engaging in low-key activities can help combat these feelings. Connecting with nature can have therapeutic benefits for mental health and well-being. Outdoor activities and experiences can help individuals step out of their comfort zones and embrace discomfort as a way to grow and learn. Nature has a powerful impact on our mental health and can provide a sense of calm and connection. Connecting with animals and the environment can foster a deeper sense of connection and respect for nature. There is a need for more outdoor experiences in urban areas to promote emotional healing and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 05:59 Nature Therapy as a Tool for Men's Mental Health 10:46 The Power of Vulnerability in Nature 14:57 Creating Safe Spaces for Emotional Expression 21:51 Challenges and Benefits of Aging as a Man 24:02 The Therapeutic Benefits of Connecting with Nature 27:21 The Power of Nature: Calm and Connection 37:21 Bringing Nature to Urban Areas: Promoting Emotional Healing and Personal Growth Thank you for listening to Blindsight. If you have a question for Bill, please give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week and we'll see you for our hike.

Summary In this conversation, Bill Lundgren and Penn Street discuss mental health issues for women with blindness. They touch on topics such as the Me Too movement, barriers faced by women with disabilities, the lack of accessibility in treatment programs, and the high rates of substance abuse among women with blindness. Penn shares her personal experiences of abuse, addiction, and recovery, highlighting the importance of a supportive network and access to appropriate resources. The conversation explores various themes related to mental health, gender stereotypes, body image, and the need for representation and support for individuals with disabilities. The guests discuss the stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly for women, and the importance of seeking help and support. They also touch on the societal pressure on women to conform to certain beauty standards and the double standards between men and women when it comes to aging. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for more visibility and representation of individuals with disabilities in various fields, including therapy and counseling. Takeaways The Me Too movement provided a platform for women to discuss mental health issues, but more needs to be done to sustain the conversation. Women with disabilities, including blindness, face additional barriers and are more likely to experience sexual assault. Treatment programs and healthcare providers need to be more accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities. Women with blindness are three times more likely to have a substance abuse problem, often as a coping mechanism for trauma. A supportive network and access to appropriate resources are crucial for women with blindness to navigate mental health challenges and recovery. There is a stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly for women, and it is important to seek help and support. Societal pressure on women to conform to beauty standards can have a negative impact on body image and self-esteem. There are double standards between men and women when it comes to aging, with men often being seen as more attractive as they get older. There is a need for more visibility and representation of individuals with disabilities in various fields, including therapy and counseling. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Announcements 02:32 The Me Too Movement and Mental Health for Women with Blindness 06:13 Barriers Faced by Women with Disabilities in Mental Health 11:56 The High Rates of Substance Abuse Among Women with Blindness 13:27 The Importance of Accessibility in Treatment Programs 25:38 Breaking the Stigma: Seeking Help for Mental Health 28:17 The Pressure of Beauty Standards on Women 34:55 Double Standards: Aging and Attractiveness 39:19 The Importance of Representation and Support for Individuals with Disabilities Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions for Bill, give us a call at (720)712-8856, or you can email us at feedback.org. Have a great week.

Summary Amy Wilson, founder of Safety Positive Foundation, discusses the importance of personal safety for the blind community and shares her own experiences with abuse. She emphasizes the need for proactive personal safety training and the empowerment of individuals to advocate for themselves. Wilson offers a range of training options, including verbal craft training, pepper spray training, and the upcoming Able Arts program. The Safety Positive Foundation aims to provide accessible personal safety resources and training for the blind community. Wilson encourages individuals to prioritize their psychological safety and develop their knowledge and skills to protect themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Program Updates 01:51 Addressing Sexual Abuse and the Importance of Talking About It 03:48 Formation of Safety Positive Foundation and Its Mission 08:15 Amy Wilson's Personal Journey and Experiences with Abuse 26:18 Offering a Range of Training Options and Resources 29:06 Challenging Misconceptions and Empowering the Blind Community 35:22 The Safety Positive Guide: A Comprehensive Resource 40:13 Contact Information and Conclusion Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have questions, please visit us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a wonderful day!

Summary In this episode, host Bill Lundgren interviews Jess Davis, a cognitive therapy life coach who specializes in working with Christian women. They discuss the differences between counseling and coaching, the importance of taking control of one's thoughts, and the challenges faced by women in balancing their various roles and responsibilities. Jess emphasizes the need for women to pursue personal growth and interests, and to let go of the expectation of doing it all. She also shares resources available on her website, including a self-guided course for Christian women called Discover Your Design. Guest Contact info https://www.steadfastlifestyleco.com/home Jess@steadfastlifestyleco.com Takeaways Counselors and therapists help process the past, while coaches help clients get grounded in the present and move forward. Taking control of one's thoughts is crucial for personal growth and overcoming limiting beliefs. Women often struggle with the belief that they have to do it all, but it's important to let go of expectations and ask for help. Motherhood is just one aspect of a woman's life, and it's important to pursue personal interests and growth. Jess Davis offers resources on her website, including a self-guided course for Christian women. Sound Bites "It's actually not our job to meet everyone else's expectation. That's their job." "Motherhood is only one of your life assignments. You're created and gifted for so much more." "It's not about getting them [kids] to do it perfectly or even doing it your way. It's just the act of doing it." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Announcements 05:31 The Differences Between Counseling and Coaching 09:52 Navigating Thoughts and Feelings 14:56 Overcoming the All-or-Nothing Thinking 23:35 Building Self-Esteem and Overcoming Limitations 30:31 Encouragement to Pursue Personal Growth and Interests Thank you for being a guest on blind site if you have any questions for Bill or would like to make a guest suggestion, please reach out to us at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at feedback@aftersight.org