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 Walker, 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.
In each episode, you’ll hear people share how they navigated new terrain, found their footing, adapted in creative ways, and discovered strengths they didn’t know they had. You’ll meet guests who offer practical ideas. Hard-earned wisdom and honest reflections about everyday life with vision loss. Maybe you’re adjusting to changes yourself. Maybe you’re supporting someone close to you. Or maybe you’re simply looking for voices and experiences that resonate. Wherever you are on your path, you are not alone.
Let’s talk about it — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
From Corporate Career to Creative Inspiration: The Reinvention of Tarris Marie
Discover the inspiring journey of Tarris Marie, a woman who transformed her life after her diagnosis of Stargardt’s disease, shifting from a successful corporate career to becoming a published author and motivational speaker. Learn how faith, resilience, and a desire to inspire others drove her through loss, reinvention, and the celebration of her gifts.
Chapters
- 00:00 – Introduction: Turning moments into stories of resilience
- 02:17 – Transition from corporate professional to author and artist
- 04:40 – Defining success: from accolades to serving others
- 06:07 – The impact of vision loss and redefining purpose
- 08:55 – Understanding Stargardt’s disease and diagnosis experience
- 11:22 – How vision loss shaped her relationships and work life
- 16:24 – A pivotal moment during a presentation that confirmed her diagnosis
- 18:47 – Walking away from a corporate career: emotional reflections
- 21:10 – The low point: battling depression and anxiety post-diagnosis
- 23:28 – Leaning on faith and spirituality during transitions
- 25:46 – Rediscovering writing from childhood to present day
- 28:38 – Writing as therapy, purpose, and creative outlet
- 34:17 – Surprising realizations and achievements in her reinvention
- 35:44 – Learning to adapt: tools and technology that enabled independence
- 39:26 – Heightened senses: embracing the full experience of life and perception
- 44:08 – Representation and community support for Black women with disabilities
- 45:34 – The importance of open conversations about disability and community efforts
- 47:28 – Using voice and platform to reshape culture and break stereotypes
- 50:13 – Unique and surprising facts about her journey and resilience
- 52:54 – Highs and lows: celebrating victories and overcoming struggles
- 54:20 – Words of encouragement for those facing vision loss and self-doubt
- 56:45 – Upcoming books and how to stay connected with Tarris Marie’s work
- Resources & Links:
- Blaque Pearle by Tarris Marie: www.amazon.com/dp/B09V5G84L7
- Empress Creed by Tarris Marie: www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXYZ1234
- Pre-order: Black Juliet (Available on Audible): www.audible.com/pd/Black-Julyet
- Tarris Marie on Instagram: instagram.com/Tarrismarie
- Tarris Marie on Facebook: facebook.com/Tarrismarieauthor
- Tarris Marie’s Official Website: Tarrismarie.com
Connect with Tarris Marie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/Tarrismarie
- Facebook: facebook.com/Tarrismarieauthor
- YouTube: youtube.com/Tarrismarie
Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) 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 Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/
- Credits
- Host: Brittany McLemore
- Producer: Patrick Roy
- Credits
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
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