Eyes and Lows
Eyes and Lows
Podcast Description
#Eyes and Lows is a space for honest conversations about the experiences within the blind, low vision community and people with disabilities. Hosted by Dr. Brittany McLemore, Director of Vocal Point (formerly GaRRS), this podcast brings together personal stories, lived experiences, and expert insights to shed light on the often-overlooked emotional journey of these individuals.Each episode dives into topics like grief, identity, resilience, relationships, self-advocacy, and more. Whether you’re newly blind, have low vision, living with a disability, a caregiver, or an ally, Eyes and Lows offers connection, understanding, and encouragement.You’re not alone. Let’s talk about it — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores a variety of important topics related to vision loss and disability, including grief, identity, resilience, relationships, self-advocacy, and emotional challenges. Specific episodes, such as Keith Bailey’s journey with autism and Janice Barrocas' work with the newly blind, highlight unique experiences and coping strategies while also offering constructive advice for both individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.
#Eyes and Lows is a space for honest conversations about the experiences within the blind, low vision community and people with disabilities. Hosted by Dr. Brittany McLemore, Director of Vocal Point (formerly GaRRS), this podcast brings together personal stories, lived experiences, and expert insights to shed light on the often-overlooked emotional journey of these individuals.
Each episode dives into topics like grief, identity, resilience, relationships, self-advocacy, and more. Whether you’re newly blind, have low vision, living with a disability, a caregiver, or an ally, Eyes and Lows offers connection, understanding, and encouragement.
You’re not alone. Let’s talk about it — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Summary:
[0:00] – Introduction to Ashley Innis, her diagnosis of Retinopathy of Prematurity, and her background as an entrepreneur and doctoral student
[5:20] – Ashley’s educational journey and how faith and creative expression became central to her identity
[11:10] – Building community with visual impairment and recent achievements including Mary Kay sales directorship
[17:15] – Advocacy work with the National Federation of the Blind and choosing entrepreneurship over traditional employment
[24:15] – Overcoming mental health challenges and proper etiquette when assisting people with visual impairments
[33:40] – Perspectives on disability, inspirational figures in Ashley’s life, and words of wisdom for listeners
Contact:
Ashley Inniss
Facebook: Ashley Inniss
Instagram: safe_harbor_gallery
Resources:
National Federation of the Blind
For people with disabilities:
- Focus on capabilities rather than limitations
- Build community through shared interests and experiences
- Take personal responsibility for expressing your gifts and talents
- Consider joining advocacy organizations like the National Federation of the Blind
For sighted individuals interacting with visually impaired people:
- Always ask before offering assistance
- Don’t assume incapacity or underestimate abilities
- Maintain respect for independence while being available to help
- Keep interactions in public spaces when first getting to know someone
For everyone:
- Practice gratitude and maintain a positive perspective
- Find outlets for self-expression like writing, music, or art
- Take personal responsibility for your joy instead of waiting for circumstances to change
- Focus on what you have rather than what you lack
Georgia Radio Reading Service (GaRRS) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word. Learn more at garrs.org. To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://garrs.org/donate/
Disclaimer
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