Listen in as we get the inside scoop from experts on a wide range of topics unique to vision loss. We will ask the questions that get to the heart of the matter for you... And have some fun along the way. Our host is Ricky Enger. To listen to this show on the telephone, call (847) 558-1317.Have an idea for a show? Contact us at podcast@HadleyHelps.org
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In this encore episode, we chat with and learn from members of the Hadley community. Dia Kraft and Don Pojman share their own tips and tricks for continuing to cook despite having lost some vision.
Missing walking, running, or just spending more time outdoors because of vision loss? Hear how one Hadley member found his way back through Achilles International, and learn how guides, community, and a little encouragement can help you get moving again.Resource mentioned in this podcast:Achilles International
Encore episode. Ever wonder which tools professionals with vision loss use in their daily lives? Wonder no more! Join Sam Seavey, creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel, as he shares the tools he loves.Website mentioned in the podcast:The Blind Life YouTube Channel
Sometimes the best way forward is to lend a hand. Char Cook and Linda Jenkins share how volunteering opened new doors, created lasting friendships, and reminded them that vision loss doesn't change what they have to offer.
In this encore episode we're joined by James Ashworth, vice president of customer care at Southwest Airlines, who is also living with macular degeneration. From navigating airports to making the most of airline assistance services, we talk about ways to make air travel with vision loss a little easier.
Need a computer but worried about cost? Not sure what technology will work best with your vision loss? Marci Duty from Computers for the Blind joins Ricky to discuss affordable computers and iPads, instruction, tech support, and how to find the right setup for your needs.Resources mentioned in this podcast:Computers for the Blind
From awkward encounters to everyday mishaps, humor can help reframe some of the challenges that come with vision loss. Ricky talks with guest John Hewitt about finding the funny moments, laughing at yourself, and using humor as one more tool for navigating life.
There are many tech tools designed for use in your home, but what are they, and are they even worth it? Listen in as Ricky and Steven Scott of Double Tap share which gadgets they use in their homes and why. Learn how some home-based tech tools can make everyday life a little easier.Resources mentioned in this podcast:Double Tap Podcast
From doctors' offices to taxes, forms and paperwork are just part of everyday life. Filling them out can take more time and patience when you're living with vision loss. In this episode, we're joined by Sam Seavey of The Blind Life as we share tips, tricks, and words of wisdom to make this common headache a little less frustrating.The Blind LifeHadley's Magnifier Series
One of the first things that can become more difficult after you've lost some vision is reading. There are many options and tools that can help, but what's right for you? In this episode, members of the Hadley community share what's worked for them, from magnifiers and large print to audiobooks, braille and various apps.Resources mentioned in this podcast:National Library ServiceHadley Presents Episode on NFB-NEWSLINEHadley's Reading with Vision Loss Workshops
Vision loss looks different for everyone, and each person adjusts in their own unique way. But you don't have to face this journey alone. In this episode, we talk about our new Adjusting and Coping Together video series. Blending real stories from members of the Hadley community with coping strategies many have found helpful, these videos address the emotional toll vision loss can have and offer ways to work through these common challenges.Here's a link to the videos: Adjusting and Coping TogetherAdjusting and Coping Together
Golf is a pretty visual game, but that hasn't stopped some members of the Hadley community from getting out on the course. In this episode, Jan Ober and Judy Messina explain how they've adapted their game as their vision changed. They share practical tips, from marking clubs and choosing the right golf balls, to finding supportive playing partners.Resources mentioned in this podcast:United States Blind Golf Association
Monitoring your health is important, but it can be challenging when you can't clearly see the numbers on a scale, thermometer, blood pressure monitor, or glucose meter. In this episode, Hadley's Ricky Enger and practical help specialist Steve Kelley share low- and high-tech tools, from talking devices and apps to simple tracking strategies, to help you confidently manage your health with vision loss.Resources mentioned in this podcast:Talking Oral Digital ThermometerTalking Body ScaleA&D Talking Blood Pressure MonitorHadley's Managing Diabetes Series
In this episode, we chat with two members of the Hadley community who use a guide dog. How did they decide? And what do they want others to know when considering this furry mobility option?Resources mentioned in this podcast:Hadley's Guide Dog SeriesGuide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI)
Shopping can be a challenge after vision loss. Even online options can be difficult to navigate. That's why the team at Innosearch AI created their platform. This free service, designed specifically for people facing vision loss, makes it much easier to shop for a wide range of items, whether online or even over the phone.How to Access Innosearch AIInnosearch.ai855-746-7478
Which episodes really made a difference for the Hadley community? Which ones did folks keep coming back to? Here's what truly popped in 2025.Featured Episodes in the podcast:Cooking after Vision LossAir Travel and Vision LossVision Loss and DepressionTech Tools for Vision Loss, From Low to High TechArtificial Intelligence (AI) and Vision Loss
Vision loss can make getting and staying organized tricky. Tune in to hear tips from the Hadley team. Learn the routines and habits they've developed to stay organized, less stressed, and safe in their homes.
In this encore episode, Pastor Scott Himel, who himself has low vision, shares practical tips for participating in religious services, no matter your level of vision.
Listen in as we hear from members of the Hadley community share their experiences with our Peer-to-Peer program. Connecting with someone on a similar path can make a world of difference.
This episode is all about taking the stress out of holiday cards and gift giving when vision loss makes things a little trickier. The Hadley team has some tips and tools on picking cards, writing messages, finding the right gifts, and keeping everything organized without losing your holiday cheer.
Ever wonder if there's more you could be doing to support your eye health? Dr. Sophie Bakri, retinal surgeon and chair of ophthalmology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, joins us to discuss everyday choices that can influence the course of eye conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
We talk with the CEO of Notal Vision about a home-based monitoring tool that alerts your eyecare provider to potential disease progression. This device can help you stay on top of your eye health between doctor visits.Bonus: Stay tuned! One of the most popular episodes from our sister podcast, Insights & Sound Bites, will automatically play after this interview.Websites mentioned in the podcast:ForeseeHome AMD Monitoring ProgramNotal Vision
Ophthalmologist Dr. John Shepherd joins us to talk about the connection between vision loss and depression, what signs to look for, and how to get the support you need.
Dr. Mathew MacCumber from Illinois Retina Associates joins us to discuss common problems that can affect the retina (macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinitis pigmentosa, to name a few). What should you ask your doctor to make sure you get the most from your eye doctor visits? What is he excited about for the future of treatments in his field? Ricky asks those questions and more.Website mentioned in the podcast:Illinois Retina Associates
Losing vision is a loss. It often brings feelings of grief, anger, and sadness. It can help to know you're not alone and that there are things you can do to help you through the rough patches.In this episode, we talk about Hadley's Adjusting & Coping Together virtual support groups. These small groups offer a space to speak openly, connect with others who are also experiencing vision loss, and learn a few things you can do to cope and adjust.
