inSight Out

How do you continue to hold space for others’ mental health when your own world is fundamentally changing? In this episode, Matthew Reeves sits down with Jon Weaver, an LCSW living with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), to discuss the profound emotional and psychological shifts that accompany progressive vision loss. Jon shares his personal "backstory," from noticing flashes of light in grad school to the "surreal" experience of being the youngest person in a retina specialist's waiting room. The heart of this discussion centers on the "mental load" of disability—the exhaustion that comes from hyper-focusing on symptoms and the anxiety of losing one's independence. Jon explains how he initially used "rationalization" to explain away his symptoms, such as joking that his fiancee simply had "night vision" superpowers. He provides a candid look at the grieving process, specifically the heartbreak of giving up his motorcycle and the "exposure therapy" required to accept a new way of living. Listeners will gain practical mental health tools as Jon breaks down Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through a unique lens. Whether you are a fellow clinician, someone newly diagnosed, or a long-term member of the low-vision community, Jon’s insights on "practicing what you preach" offer a grounded, hopeful roadmap for navigating the plateaus and declines of vision loss with grace. Topics Covered: Retinitis pigmentosa diagnosis, Stargardt's disease, family history of vision loss, the "mental load" of disability, anxiety and hyper-fixation, grieving the loss of driving, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) triangle, grounding techniques, adaptive gaming and hobbies, the future of AR and AI in low vision. Contact Jon at [email protected] or (585) 310-4170. ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

In this episode of inSight Out, host Matthew Reeves sits down with Licensed Professional Counselor Ronda Thorington to discuss the often-overlooked emotional landscape of caregiving. Ronda shares her powerful personal journey of navigating her daughter’s rare autoimmune diagnosis and the "aha moment" at the National Institutes of Health that led her to specialize in supporting caregivers. Together, they bridge the gap between general medical complexity and the specific experiences of families living with low vision and blindness. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of "vicarious trauma"—the emotional toll of witnessing a loved one’s struggle—and how to manage the "time offset" of grief within a family. Ronda provides a compassionate framework for moving past the labels that can rob us of our humanity, emphasizing that neither the caregiver nor the care recipient should be defined solely by a diagnosis. This conversation is a masterclass in maintaining individual identity while navigating a shared disability journey. The episode also introduces practical tools from Ronda’s "Resilient Parent Toolkit," including how to set micro-boundaries and reclaim a sense of "new normal" through structure and routine. Whether you are a parent of a child with vision loss, a partner providing support, or someone living with a diagnosis who feels like a "burden," this episode offers the language and the permission to prioritize your own mental wellbeing. Topics Covered: Caregiving, vicarious trauma, chronic illness, low vision, grief cycles, identity beyond diagnosis, family communication, curiosity in relationships, medical trauma, pediatric illness, resilient parenting, self-care, invisible disability, and mental health advocacy. Reach Ronda at (860) 533-0912 or [email protected]. Download the Resiliant Parent Toolkit: www.resilientparentconsulting.com ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

In this episode of inSight Out, host Matthew Reeves sits down with Max Ivey, an author, speaker, and entrepreneur known as the "Blind Blogger". Max shares his unique upbringing in the East Texas carnival circuit, explaining how the high-stakes environment of the midway taught him creative problem-solving and the essential discipline of "making opening" regardless of life’s challenges. We delve into his transition to the digital world, where he taught himself HTML character-by-character to launch a business brokering carnival rides, eventually finding his "zone of genius" as a motivational storyteller and accessibility advocate. Listeners will gain insight into Max’s philosophy of "honest storytelling" and why he prefers the term "individuals with disabilities" to emphasize our unique lived experiences. Max offers a candid look at the frustrations of inaccessible technology—from the early days of dial-up to the modern struggles with platform back-ends—while maintaining a grounded, "determined positivity" that avoids the pitfalls of toxic optimism. This conversation is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding the "upsides" in any situation. Whether you are navigating a new diagnosis or have been living with vision loss for years, Max’s perspective provides a practical roadmap for moving forward. He challenges the audience to identify one small thing they can do today to improve their mental or physical health, reminding us that success and failure are deeply personal definitions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to build a rich, gratifying life by embracing their individual journey and the challenges that come with it. Topics Covered: Retinitis Pigmentosa, Bardet-Biedl Syndrome, carnival culture and resilience, self-taught coding and accessibility, the Blind Blogger origin story, individual versus group identity in disability, determined positivity versus toxic positivity, honest storytelling, navigating digital inaccessibility, career transitions with vision loss. Contact Max Ivey at [email protected] or 979-215-1770. View his site at https://www.theaccessibilityadvantage.com.   ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Cooking is one of the most fundamental activities of daily living, yet for many experiencing vision loss, the kitchen can suddenly feel like a landscape of hazards and frustrations. In this episode, Matthew Reeves speaks with Debra Erickson, a blind culinary school graduate and the visionary behind The Blind Kitchen. Debra shares her personal story of adjusting to Retinitis Pigmentosa and how a vocational rehabilitation course eventually led her to professional culinary training and a mission to help others "cook without looking". Listeners will discover a wealth of practical strategies and specialized tools designed to ensure safety and consistency in the kitchen. From "bump dots" on flat-screen microwaves to "boiler alert discs" and cut-resistant gloves, Debra explains how simple modifications can prevent burns and injuries while fostering true independence. The discussion also delves into the social aspects of food, offering tips for navigating dark restaurants and using subtle cues with dining partners to maintain dignity and connection. Beyond the technical skills, this episode addresses the emotional weight of vision loss, such as the fear of losing one's role as the family cook or the isolation of staying home to avoid "groping around" in public. Debra’s insights provide a hopeful roadmap for anyone looking to transition from a "microwave popcorn diet" to preparing nutritious, delicious meals. Whether you are a lifelong foodie or someone just trying to manage the basics, you will find encouragement in Debra's message that your contribution to the world—and the dinner table—is far from over. Topics Covered: Retinitis Pigmentosa diagnosis , culinary school as a blind student , vocational rehabilitation and meal prep , The Blind Kitchen library , browning ground meat techniques , talking thermometers , dining out with vision loss , bump dots for accessibility , safety tools like cut gloves and boiler discs , the emotional impact of losing culinary independence , entrepreneurship with a disability , and the power of asking for help. Visit The Blind Kitchen ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Navigating a new diagnosis of vision loss is often a traumatic and isolating experience. In this episode, host Matthew Reeves, a legally blind psychotherapist, sits down with three specializing genetic counselors—Rebecca Clark, Emily Place, and Taylor Sabato—to discuss their vital role in the diagnostic and adjustment process. The group explores the "human side" of genetics, explaining how these professionals provide the gift of time and empathy to patients who have just received life-altering news. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the difference between a clinical and genetic diagnosis, and why identifying a specific genetic variant can offer a clearer roadmap for the future. The guests break down the complexities of heritability, the "art" of interpreting DNA research, and the psychological impact of sharing genetic risks with family members. Whether you are curious about your own genotype or looking for ways to feel less alone in your journey, this episode offers a blend of technical expertise and deep compassion. Beyond the lab results, this discussion emphasizes the importance of the "care team" and the resources available to those with inherited retinal dystrophies. From the nuances of participating in clinical trials to the emotional resilience required to face uncertainty, our guests provide a hopeful perspective on living well with low vision. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to move from a place of disempowerment to a position of informed advocacy for their own health and well-being. Topics Covered: Ophthalmic genetic counseling, inherited retinal dystrophies, genetic testing yield, clinical vs. genetic diagnosis, emotional adjustment to vision loss, family planning and heritability, clinical trial screening, genotype vs. phenotype, National Society of Genetic Counselors, patient autonomy and privacy. National Society of Genetic Counselors ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Living with vision loss or a chronic condition often feels like navigating a world that isn't quite built for you. In this episode, Matthew Reeves sits down with Destiny Davis, LPC, CRC, a therapist dedicated to the chronic illness community. Destiny shares her powerful personal history, growing up with a father who navigated blindness and a traumatic brain injury, and how that lived experience now informs her clinical work. Together, they explore the "bio-psychosocial" layers of disability—how it affects our bodies, our minds, and our social connections. The conversation delves into the common frustrations of being misunderstood or "gaslit" by the medical community and the isolation that often follows. Destiny introduces the concept of "scaffolding"—the process of providing emotional and logistical support to ourselves and our loved ones as we learn to navigate new challenges. She shares practical tools, like using shared documents to help explain the nuances of a condition to family members, which can reduce physical stress and improve advocacy. Finally, we discuss the role of values-based living. Destiny explains how making decisions based on what we value—rather than just our symptoms—can give our lives meaning and purpose even when an "outcome" like a cure isn't on the horizon. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to bridge the gap between their disability and a rich, gratifying life. Topics Covered: Chronic illness and vision loss, bio-psychosocial impact of disability, medical gaslighting and microaggressions, the concept of scaffolding in relationships, tools for self-advocacy, values-based decision making, navigating the grief of disability, the importance of Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRCs), and finding autonomy through assistive technology. Destiny can be reach at: 404-905-3391 [email protected] The Chronic Illness Therapist ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: [email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

How does a "rocket scientist adjacent" software developer navigate the world with Retinitis Pigmentosa? In this episode of Insight Out, host Matthew Reeves sits down with JP Patterson to explore the intersection of high-level engineering and the daily realities of low vision. JP shares his unique journey from being a 14-year-old racing dirt bikes in Baja to managing engineering teams in the aerospace industry, all while progressively losing his sight. He offers a refreshing, emotionally honest perspective on using an "engineering mindset" to view failures as mere data points rather than personal shortcomings. The conversation moves beyond technical workarounds to the heart of the emotional journey. JP opens up about the "trap" of being hyper-independent and how he recently recognized a deep sense of depression that his engineering tools couldn't fix. Listeners will hear about JP's profound recent shift: his decision to finally seek Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training, start therapy, and "burn the boats" to leave his solitary island for the wider visually impaired community. Whether you are a "tech nerd" or someone struggling with the exhaustion of "playing three-dimensional chess" every day, this episode provides a roadmap for turning inward to find peace. JP discusses his latest project, Gaming Vision, an application designed to make video games more accessible through computer vision, proving that our community's problem-solving skills are a marketable and vital asset. Join us for an inspiring look at how to stop faking it and start swimming toward a more connected, authentic life. Topics Covered: Retinitis Pigmentosa diagnosis and progression, engineering mindset in disability adjustment, desert racing and Baja 1000, aerospace testing career, the "island" metaphor for isolation, parenting with vision loss, mental exhaustion of low vision, O&M training and therapy, Gaming Vision accessibility project, the value of community connection. You can reach JP Patterson by email at [email protected] and you can visit his website at https://jpdoes.dev/. ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, host Matthew Reeves, a legally blind psychotherapist, sits down with Eavan O'Neill, the founder of Brightside Community. Eavan shares her journey of vision loss, beginning with the early signs noticed in elementary school, through the "perplexing" diagnosis of cone dystrophy, which later confirmed as Stargardt disease, during her senior year of college. Her story provides a raw look at the emotional shock of a life-changing diagnosis at a pivotal time—just before the pandemic and her college graduation. We discuss the cultural misconception of blindness as an all-or-nothing experience and the profound, immediate fear that comes with a rare diagnosis where the prognosis is unclear and no cure is offered. Eavan shares her initial struggle with depression following the diagnosis and the intentional steps she took to climb out of that dark place. She reflects on the "cosmic pause button" the pandemic provided, which gave her the space to process her new reality with her family. A key turning point was realizing the therapeutic power of sharing her story. This led her to find a new sense of control and self through running marathons, and most significantly, to establish a safe, supportive space for others facing similar challenges. The conversation culminates in an in-depth discussion about Brightside Community, a non-profit support group that has grown to over 150 members worldwide. Eavan details the group’s mission—to connect individuals experiencing vision loss of any kind (age 18+)—and how their meetings offer a vital "other level of understanding" that even the most supportive sighted loved ones cannot provide. She shares the group's structure, including the use of Slack for 24/7 connection, and reflects on the fulfillment of seeing members build real-life friendships. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking community, coping strategies, and a reminder that acceptance is an active component of grief, not its endpoint. Topics Covered: Stargardt disease, cone dystrophy, navigating vision loss in college, adjusting to disability, parental guilt, the role of research, coping with depression, finding control through running, the power of sharing your story, building community, peer support groups, Brightside Community, acceptance as a component of grief. [email protected] https://brightsidecommunity.com/ ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

In this deeply moving and inspirational episode, host Matthew Reeves, a legally blind psychotherapist, sits down with Meredith Tyree, an incredible woman who embodies the spirit of resilience and adaptation. Meredith shares her experience navigating the complex, dual diagnosis of hearing loss from birth and later, Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), which led to a diagnosis of Usher Syndrome. Her story highlights the emotional difficulty of the diagnostic journey—feeling categorized and underestimated by the world—and the pivotal moment when she realized her only true limits were the ones she set for herself. Meredith's passion lies in adaptive sports and recreation, which she credits as a channel for frustration and a source of profound freedom. She details her initial reluctance to try tennis again, despite loving it as a child, and how a challenge from a friend pushed her to find adaptive solutions, even for a hearing-impaired person playing Goalball, a sport that relies on a bell. She emphasizes that adaptive sports organizations like Move United and Sportable have incredible volunteers who provide the necessary structure and guidance, encouraging participants to simply show up and be willing to learn. This conversation offers a powerful message for anyone feeling isolated or disheartened by vision loss: don't let fear be the reason you don't live. Meredith encourages listeners to take the "thousand excuses"—which she calls fear—and throw them out, giving life one shot. It's about finding a supportive community where you can shed the "armor" of constantly having to prove yourself and experience the liberation of being your authentic self. Meredith’s commitment to living life to the fullest, and her involvement with the Foundation Fighting Blindness, serves as a powerful reminder that every challenge is an opportunity to adapt, adjust, and soar. Topics Covered: Usher Syndrome, Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), navigating dual sensory loss, the diagnostic journey, low expectations from others, the power of mentorship, Foundation Fighting Blindness, adaptive sports and recreation, Goalball, tandem cycling, kayaking, overcoming fear and self-doubt, the importance of supportive community, Move United, Sportable. Move United: moveunitedsport.org/ ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

The Power of Connection: Human-Centered Media for the Print Impaired Community with Dr. Brittany McLemore In this heartfelt and illuminating episode, host Matthew Reeves, a legally blind psychotherapist, welcomes Dr. Brittany McLemore, the Executive Director of Vocal Point (formerly the Georgia Radio Reading Service). This conversation explores the incredible 45-year history of this essential, free service, which has evolved from a local radio broadcast to a 24/7 global digital hub for news, books, magazines, and original content for the blind, low vision, and print-impaired community. Dr. McLemore shares the inspiring origin story of Vocal Point, founded in 1980 by a World War II veteran and former newspaper executive who lost his sight in his early thirties and recognized the profound lack of accessible media . Discover how Vocal Point is breaking stigmas about vision loss, intentionally reaching younger demographics, and moving beyond the passive "broadcast model" to actively build a genuine, bi-directional community with its listeners. You'll learn about Vocal Point's commitment to using human voice over AI—creating a crucial sense of familiarity and connection for listeners who often feel isolated. As a clinician, Matthew deeply connects with Dr. McLemore's social work background and her systemic approach to service, bridging top-down organizational strategy with grassroots community needs. They discuss the "dangerous" reality of providing services that don't meet an authentic need, and the importance of recognizing the full humanity of every listener. Dr. McLemore shares a deeply personal, surprising moment from her first week in the role—an experience that profoundly changed her lens and worldview, moving her away from an unintentional "superiority" mindset and toward radical empathy and intentional training for her team. This story is a powerful reflection on personal growth, humility, and the choice we all have to challenge our own biases. Listen to find out how to access Vocal Point's free, 24/7 service and its on-demand program library, and learn about their vision for upcoming community-building initiatives, including in-person book clubs and a mentorship program. Topics covered: History of Vocal Point (formerly Georgia Radio Reading Service), free accessible media service, blind/low vision/print-impaired community, radio broadcast to digital platform, Amazon Echo Dot access, on-demand listening (cvp.org), human voice vs. AI narration, volunteer readers, community building, diverse programming, newspapers, magazines, books, career corner, service programs (Capital View, Research Watch), breaking vision loss stigma, systemic and grassroots service approach, personal growth and internal biases, full humanity of listeners. Visit Vocal Point: www.seevp.org ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Orientation and mobility specialist Hannah Kleinschmidt shares her journey from receiving O&M training as a young person with albinism to becoming a certified instructor who helps adults adjust to vision loss. Hannah discusses the emotional challenges many people face when first using a white cane, explaining how it serves both as a practical mobility tool and a visible identifier that changes how others interact with you. She walks us through what O&M training involves—from learning to trust the cane and cross streets non-visually to using public transportation and asking for help effectively. Hannah emphasizes that everyone's experience with the cane is different, and she offers insight into how instructors balance technical skill-building with the mental and emotional adjustments that come with vision loss. With candor and compassion, she shares both her personal story and professional perspective on helping people regain independence and confidence. Topics covered: orientation and mobility, O&M training, white cane, mobility instruction, albinism, legal blindness, low vision, street crossing, public transportation, guide dogs, vision loss adjustment, disability acceptance, independence, pedestrian skills, assistive technology, vision rehabilitation, asking for help, mobility specialist. ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Meredyth Mason shares her journey from receiving a devastating retinitis pigmentosa diagnosis at 32 with no resources or support, through two years of crippling depression, to rebuilding an active, entrepreneurial life with her guide dog. Diagnosed later in life after experiencing night driving difficulties and missing letters on computer screens, Meredyth discusses the complete lack of medical support she received and how she eventually climbed out of depression by taking agency over her recovery one small step at a time. She explores the difference between being alone and being lonely, the importance of removing toxic influences from life, and how she transitioned from corporate employee to successful entrepreneur. Meredyth also covers her experience with Division of Blind Services, learning to use a white cane, getting a guide dog from Leader Dogs for the Blind, and returning to activities like golf and trap shooting through adaptive sports. Her message centers on defining success on your own terms rather than living up to others' expectations, and building a supportive community within the vision loss world. Topics covered: retinitis pigmentosa, late diagnosis, depression recovery, entrepreneurship with vision loss, guide dogs, white cane training, Division of Blind Services, adaptive sports, food security, self-care, agency, mental health, isolation vs solitude, toxic relationships, vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, independent living, travel with vision loss ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Licensed psychotherapist and career coach Karen Rose (LMFT LPCC), who was born totally blind, shares her perspective on living as a whole person rather than someone missing something, and how she built a thriving practice despite facing significant employment barriers. At 73, Karen continues working six and a half days a week, using the creative problem-solving skills she developed navigating a world not designed for her to help others think outside the box in their careers and lives. She recounts accidentally stumbling into the historic 1977 Section 504 sit-in that secured the first civil rights protections for people with disabilities, and discusses how technology has transformed independence for blind individuals. Karen challenges the notion of lowered expectations and advocates for shifting from asking "Can I do this?" to "How am I going to get this done?" She also shares her journey through decades of advocacy work, the realities of building a private practice, and her approach to helping clients achieve post-traumatic growth. Topics covered: blindness from birth, retinopathy of prematurity, disability rights advocacy, Section 504 sit-in, career coaching, psychotherapy practice, lowered expectations, problem-solving strategies, assistive technology, employment barriers, post-traumatic growth, disability identity, civil rights history. Karen can be reached at [email protected] and at her website www.career-therapy.net. ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Philosophy professor Brian Deer joins host Matthew Reeves to discuss his journey from engineering to academia while navigating progressive vision loss from Stargardt disease. Brian shares his experience visiting nearly 100 doctors before receiving a diagnosis, the challenges of giving up driving at 24, and the practical adaptations that enabled his career transition. From learning to attend lectures without taking notes to managing the complexities of grading papers in an AI-influenced world, Brian offers candid insights about problem-solving, self-advocacy, and moving forward one obstacle at a time. This conversation explores both the frustrations and possibilities that come with vision loss, emphasizing that major life changes and professional growth remain achievable with different strategies and tools. Topics covered: Stargardt disease diagnosis, medical gaslighting, transportation challenges, assistive technology, career transitions, academic accommodations, self-advocacy, family communication, and practical advice for facing overwhelming challenges. ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

ABOUT THIS EPISODE In this episode of insight Out, host Matthew Reeves interviews Gretchen Fisher Orr (GDMI, COMS), an expert from the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, to discuss the world of guide dogs. They explore the emotional and practical aspects of training and working with guide dogs, the differences between service animals and emotional support animals, and the process of matching dogs with people who are blind or have low vision. Gretchen also shares her personal journey in this field and the rewarding moments of seeing guide dog teams thrive independently. International Guide Dog Federation: https://www.igdf.org.uk/ Fidelco: https://fidelco.org/ ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

ABOUT THIS EPISODE We hear Dawn McAvoy’s personal perspective on vision loss. Dawn’s diagnosis came later in life after a great deal of confusion around what condition she was facing. While maintaining her career in marketing, Dawn uses humor, connection with community, research, and an honest embrace of her feelings to learn about herself and thrive with low vision. ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Licensed counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor Janice Barrocas shares insider strategies for successfully navigating the vocational rehabilitation (VR) system for people with vision loss. She explains how this federal-state program helps with employment preparation and reveals practical tips including “magic words” that help prioritize your case, the importance of written communication over phone calls, and how to build confidence before seeking full-time employment. Janice covers the types of services available (orientation and mobility training, daily living skills, technology training, adjustment counseling for disability), the individualized employment plan process, and how to handle workplace challenges after getting hired. She emphasizes that effective self-advocacy and persistence are key to success in an under-resourced system where services are “subject to availability.” Janice Barrocas (LOPC, CRC) provides personal adjustment to vision loss counseling through her practice Adjusting to Vision Loss. You can visit her website here: https://www.adjustingtovisionloss.com/ Topics covered: vocational rehabilitation (VR) system, vision loss employment, disability services, self-advocacy, orientation and mobility training, assistive technology, vision rehabilitation therapy, individualized employment plan, federal disability programs, state rehabilitation services, adjustment counseling, job placement, workplace accommodations, independent living skills ABOUT THE PODCAST inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

Nick Mendler, president of the Eye Spy Foundation, shares how receiving a retinitis pigmentosa diagnosis at 16 with only a pamphlet for guidance inspired him to create eyespy.org—a comprehensive digital resource platform for the blind and low vision community. The Eye Spy Foundation launched eyespy.org as a one-stop digital hub containing over 900 resources for people with vision loss. Beyond the directory, Nick’s vision includes human navigators in major cities who can provide personalized support and local expertise. He emphasizes that while technology provides access to information, people still need human connection when facing life-changing circumstances like vision loss. Learn more about the Foundation at http://www.eyespy.org/talks and reach Nick at [email protected]. Topics covered: vision loss, retinitis pigmentosa, blindness resources, accessibility, digital platforms, low vision support, vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, disability navigation, mental health support, eyespy.org, Eye Spy Foundation ABOUT inSight Out inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: https://insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: https://speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: mailto:[email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcripts): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media Handle: @insightoutpod   ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC

In this first episode, I’ll introduce myself and the inSight Out podcast…who I am, why I decided to create this show, and what I hope inSight Out will offer to the low and no vision community. So, unlike other episodes where I will help you get to know a variety of guests, this episode asks my longtime friend to help me tell my story to you, my new audience. ABOUT THE PODCAST Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community! inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor. CONNECT WITH US Podcast Home: insightoutpod.com Talk to Us: speakpipe.com/insightoutpod Email: [email protected] Watch on YouTube (with transcript): youtube.com/@insightoutpod Feed: https://www.insightoutpod.com/feed.xml Reddit Community: https://www.reddit.com/r/inSightOut/ Social Media: @insightoutpod ©Integral Mental Health Services, LLC