Blindsight

Bill Lundgren and guest Bethany Joy Boring open a four-part series on how to tell your story. They frame why full-life “from birth to now” dumps overwhelm, and why starting with one scene creates safety and clarity. Bill shares turning points in hearing and vision loss, including the friend who told him the truth and stayed present. Bethany shows how hiding burns energy and blocks connection, how to choose safe listeners, and how adaptive skills become a communication superpower. They outline practical guardrails: begin with one moment, notice body cues, set relational boundaries, and take one small step today. Contact Info Guest: Bethany Joy Boring, mental health consultant and author. Aftersight: feedback@aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856 Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight Show Credits Host: Bill Lundgren Guest: Bethany Joy Boring Producer: Jonathan Price Recording & Post: Aftersight Originals Chapter Markers 00:00 — Opening and series setup 02:26 — Bethany’s origin and the 20-minute story frame 04:49 — “Start with a scene,” not a saga 07:15 — Bill’s hearing message: “try harder” 09:18 — The energy cost of hiding 11:19 — Naming fear of others’ reactions 13:24 — The truth-telling friend and a career pivot 15:39 — Walking with allies vs. walking alone 18:03 — Professional identity and disclosure 20:21 — Adaptive storytelling as a superpower 22:38 — Selecting safe people, not boxes 25:03 — Asking for help without shame 27:27 — Play, humor, and dignity at home 29:43 — Safety checks before sharing 32:03 — Boundaries, pacing, and “workout soreness” 34:12 — The raw-egg test for trust 36:36 — Reciprocity: listen as you share 38:46 — Journaling when writing is hard 41:06 — Start small and adaptable 43:32 — Be selective; avoid relational poison 45:55 — Radical acceptance, defined and disliked 48:19 — One small action before you hit stop Exercise 1 — The Mirror Story Purpose: Start healing by safely naming what’s real. Steps: Choose a quiet moment. Write or record your personal story of loss or change. Add one line beginning with: “The part of my story I’ve avoided saying out loud is…” When finished, set it aside for 24 hours before reading or replaying it. On review, mark any sentences that made you pause, tear up, or smile. Reflection Prompt: “What truth did my body recognize before my mind did?”

Bill Lundgren interviews Lily Turkstra, a PhD researcher at UC Santa Barbara, on the realities of visual prostheses. They unpack who qualifies, what “seeing” with phosphenes is like, how training works, and why expectation-setting and mental health support are critical. Takeaways: current implants provide rudimentary perception, not natural vision; outcomes vary; support systems and rehab matter; independence gains are possible but individualized; clinicians and families must align on expectations. Contact Info Guest resources: bionic-vision.org (lab hub), bionicvision.org (lab site) Aftersight: (720) 712-8856 • feedback@aftersight.org • aftersight.org Producer: Jonathan Price • jonathan@aftersight.org Show Credits Host: Bill Lundgren Guest: Lily, PhD researcher, UCSB (Bionic Vision) Producer: Jonathan Price Editor/Mix: Aftersight Audio Team A production of Aftersight Chapter Markers 00:00 — Why prosthetics in blindness matters 01:10 — Guest intro: Lily’s path to bionic vision 02:22 — From auditory perception to NASA to face blindness 03:40 — Who qualifies for visual implants 05:05 — Argus II and early devices 07:06 — What users actually “see”: phosphenes 08:20 — Learning a new visual language 09:30 — Daily-life integration vs lab outcomes 10:45 — Setting expectations for users and families 12:05 — Trade-offs: adaptation vs frustration 14:10 — What recognition is possible today 15:30 — Rehab and training workflows 16:37 — Practical home practice examples 18:10 — Community, altruism, and trial motivation 19:45 — Device limits vs “personal failure” 21:23 — External pressure and mental health 22:40 — “Change your life” claims, defined 23:51 — Independence as the real metric 25:10 — Measuring success outside the lab 27:10 — Family dynamics and letting go 30:01 — Finding peers and support 32:18 — Access barriers and consistency of care 34:25 — Integrating the device back into life 36:30 — Therapy and anxiety considerations 38:48 — Pre-implant psychological screening 41:18 — Whole-person fit and timing 43:40 — Research vs user expectations gap 46:01 — Co-design with users 48:23 — Why structured support groups would help 49:01 — Where to find trials and teams 51:28 — Resource sharing for the public 53:51 — Summary: useful, not universal; mindset matters 56:18 — Closing and resources recap

In this powerful episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren speaks with Ashley, a survivor whose journey through trauma, depression, and blindness has forged a message of resilience and rebirth. Ashley opens up about her early struggles with family instability, mental illness, and a life-changing suicide attempt that left her blind but ultimately set her on a path toward self-discovery and purpose. She discusses the process of rebuilding her life after losing her sight, finding independence at Perkins School for the Blind, and redefining strength through the metaphor of the Phoenix—rising renewed from her own ashes. Ashley and Bill explore themes of mental health, self-foundation, interdependence, and the delicate balance between support and autonomy for people who are blind. This episode is a raw and inspiring reminder that healing begins when we stop hiding from the fire and start walking through it. Contact Information Guest: Ashley — Mental Health Advocate & Public Speaker Organization: Perkins School for the Blind Host: Bill Lundgren Producer: Jonathan Price Podcast Network: Aftersight 📩 For Resources or Questions: contact@aftersight.org ☎️ If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling: Dial 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) 🌐 Learn More: www.aftersight.org Show Credits Host: Bill Lundgren Guest: Ashley Producer: Jonathan Price Audio Production: Aftersight Studios Presented by: Aftersight — Empowering the Blind and Low-Vision Community Chapter Markers 00:00 — Introduction and Content Warning 01:00 — Ashley’s Early Life and Family Struggles 05:00 — Mental Health and Early Depression 07:00 — Trauma, Self-Harm, and Institutional Care 09:00 — The Night of the Attempt 13:00 — Waking Up Blind: A New Beginning 16:00 — Recovery and Perkins School for the Blind 18:00 — Becoming the Phoenix 21:00 — Building a Foundation of Self 25:00 — Learning Independence and Advocacy 30:00 — Accepting Blindness and Teaching Others 39:00 — Mental Health, Balance, and Support Systems 46:00 — Lessons in Interdependence and Resilience 49:00 — Steps Toward Healing and Moving Forward 52:00 — Closing Thoughts and Crisis Resources

Bill Lundgren continues his deep-dive with author and publisher Elyse Draper, exploring how writing can serve as catharsis and empowerment for people with disabilities. They unpack the idea that adaptive technology is simply “tools for the job,” spotlight Elyse’s Super Abled children’s-story app and the VI&B Creatives Workshop, and demystify AI as a creative ally. Practical tips on memoir-style journaling, freewriting without self-censorship, and using AI platforms like Gemini round out an encouraging conversation on turning personal challenges into narrative strength. Contact Info Elyse Draper — Senior Editor, iPub Cloud Email: E.Draper@ipubcloud.org Publishing House & Store: https://ipubcloud.org VI&B Creatives Workshop: https://viandbcreativesworkshop.com Super Abled App: https://super_abled.com Aftersight — Non-profit media network Phone: (720) 712-8856 Email: feedback@aftersight.org Podcasts & resources: https://aftersight.org/podcast Producer Credits: Jonathan Price — Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight Show Credits Host: Bill Lundgren Guest: Elyse Draper Producer: Jonathan Price Recording & Post-Production: Aftersight Studios Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro & Part 1 recap 02:18 “Tools for the job” mindset 04:44 Launching the Super Abled project 07:05 First steps for therapeutic writing 09:26 Introspection through speculative fiction 11:53 Writing for yourself vs. an audience 14:21 AI as a creativity partner 16:29 How to reach Elyse & project links 18:58 Storytelling, donations, and final takeaways 20:25 Closing remarks

In this emotionally powerful Part 1 episode of Blindsight, Bill Lundgren sits down with Elyse Draper—author, illustrator, and founder of the VI&B Creatives Workshop. Elyse shares her incredible journey from visual artist to writer, and how the onset of vision loss reshaped her life, family dynamics, and identity. Through raw stories of grief, mental health challenges, and creative survival, Elyse invites listeners into a deeper understanding of how art can be a lifeline. The episode explores the origins of VI&B, the importance of peer support in the blind community, and how writing can offer both healing and purpose. Come back next week for Part 2 of this inspiring conversation. At the end of the episode, Jonathan Price shares details about the upcoming Audio Trekkers Hike on September 13th—an inclusive outdoor experience for the blind and low-vision community and their supporters. 📞 Contact Information Aftersight Website: https://aftersight.org Hike Details: https://aftersight.org/hike Email: feedback@aftersight.org Phone: (720) 712-8856 ⏱️ Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight 01:30 – Elyse’s journey from visual arts to writing 04:45 – Diagnosis, grief, and writing as catharsis 09:25 – Building VI&B: A platform for blind creatives 13:15 – Blindness and the new language of art 18:20 – Accessibility innovations driven by disability 23:00 – Career gaps for creatives with disabilities 27:45 – Hike announcement and closing remarks

Bill and Samantha unpack the stigma around anger and the broader emotional experience for people with low vision or blindness. Samantha shares her unconventional entry into vision-loss counseling through the Tampa Lighthouse for the Blind, emphasizes that clients with low vision are “just people,” and highlights grief as a common—but not universal—theme. Together they challenge prejudices (sighted vs. blind therapists), explore the “anger umbrella” of nuanced emotions, and offer concrete techniques for naming, expressing, and managing feelings—especially when visual cues are absent. The conversation closes with practical strategies: emotional granularity (using an “emotion wheel”), clear verbal check‑ins (“What’s happening in the room?”), and personalized coping routines (naming the feeling, walking away, sensory resets). Key Themes: Grief and loss in vision change Bias toward/against blind or sighted therapists Anger as an umbrella emotion vs. specific labels Gender and family conditioning around emotion Teaching children emotional language early Safety and expressing anger without visual feedback Coping strategies: name it, take space, regulate Emotional granularity & the Emotion Wheel Therapy as education: “You don’t know what you don’t know” Actionable Tips: Name precisely: Go beyond “angry” to “hurt,” “threatened,” “frustrated,” etc. State & step back: “I’m angry; I need 30 minutes. I’ll come back.” Ask for context: If you can’t see reactions, verbalize: “What’s happening in the room? How are you feeling?” Build a coping menu: Music, walk, shower, time with guide dog—experiment and codify what works. Use an Emotion Wheel: Improves emotional regulation and communication. Guest Contact: Website: https://tideschangingtherapy.com Email: samantha@tideschangingtherapy.com Instagram: @tideschangingtherapy Aftersight Feedback / Inquiries: feedback@aftersight.org Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. 2. Chapter Markers (mm:ss – one line each) 00:00 – Intro & Welcome 01:00 – Samantha’s Path: Tampa Lighthouse & Finding a Calling 02:14 – Serving Clients in Florida and Colorado 04:16 – “Same People, Different Experiences”: Grief & Vision Loss 06:43 – Bias Toward Sighted vs. Blind Therapists 08:35 – Challenging Prejudice and Affirming Capability 10:54 – Setting Up Today’s Focus: Anger 12:34 – Defining Anger & The Umbrella of Emotions 14:44 – Gender, Family Messages, and Suppressed Feelings 16:59 – Teaching Emotional Language to Children 19:27 – Expressing Anger Safely with Limited Visual Cues 21:52 – Coping Strategies: Naming, Walking Away, Reset 24:14 – Anger ≠ Aggression: Normalizing the Feeling 26:13 – Navigating Others’ Reactions Without Sight 28:43 – Communication: “What’s Going On in the Room?” 29:52 – Therapy, Learning, and Transforming Patterns 32:01 – Emotional Granularity & The Emotion Wheel 34:25 – From Core Emotions to Nuanced Expression 36:49 – Reframing Emotions: We Feel Before We Think 39:16 – Practical Tips & Verbal Validation 41:43 – Guest Contact Info, Wrap‑Up & Closing

In this honest and emotionally vulnerable episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren sits down with therapist and guide dog user Darran Zenger for a heartfelt discussion on one of our most avoided emotions—sadness. Darran opens up about preparing to say goodbye to his beloved guide dog, sharing what it’s like to sit in the rawness of grief while still showing up with empathy and presence. Bill reflects on the loss of his own father and the misguided emotional norms he grew up with, particularly the message that “men don’t cry.” Together, they unpack: The nature of sadness as neither good nor bad The toxic cultural expectations—especially for men—to suppress emotion The difference between sadness and depression How suppressed grief can manifest as anger or even violence Practical tools for navigating sadness: music, movement, journaling, reaching out, and community Whether you're grieving, caring for someone who is, or just trying to understand your own emotions better, this episode is a powerful invitation to feel more deeply and heal more fully. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Opening: Mental health is not a luxury 01:05 – Introducing sadness: it’s not good or bad, it just is 02:24 – Bill’s personal story about emotional suppression 04:05 – Darran’s guide dog and sitting with loss 07:00 – The masculine pressure to suppress emotion 09:30 – The cost of unprocessed sadness 11:58 – Toxic positivity and being told to “buckle up” 14:27 – The need for empathy over solutions 16:37 – Sadness vs. depression: how to tell the difference 20:36 – What sadness looks like in daily life 22:00 – Music, movement, and peanut butter: self-care ideas 25:24 – Writing and drawing as emotional processing tools 26:56 – The power of bilateral stimulation and nature walks 29:13 – Medication, sleep, and the role of therapy 31:17 – Group therapy and peer support for grief 33:38 – Final thoughts: it’s okay to feel 35:58 – Next time on Blindsight: “A is for Anger”

In this emotionally rich and affirming episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren welcomes back therapist Darran Zenger for a deep conversation on the often misunderstood emotion of happiness. Together, they dissect the difference between genuine happiness, put-on smiles, and the more enduring sensation of joy. Darran opens up about his own challenges, including navigating life with Usher Syndrome, and how reframing small moments—like enjoying French fries or a favorite soda—can rewire the mind toward happiness. He emphasizes that happiness is a moment-to-moment experience, while joy is the cumulative result of consistent presence and meaningful connection. Bill and Darran also discuss: Why society often discourages men from feeling emotions How feelings are tools, not judgments The subtle ways addiction can numb happiness The power of gratitude and vulnerability Why we need to give ourselves permission to be happy From McDonald’s Coke to Brene Brown’s research, this episode is a vibrant blend of personal stories, clinical wisdom, and soul-nourishing reminders that you’re not alone—and that you deserve to feel happy. Chapter Markers: 00:03 – Welcome to Blindsight: Introducing feelings series 01:52 – Men, emotions, and societal norms 04:45 – What is happiness? Reframing and redefining joy 07:13 – Positive affirmations and “fake it till you make it” 09:38 – Blindness, dating, and reframing rejection 11:48 – The power of identity beyond disability 13:57 – Connection over perfection and Brene Brown’s research 16:22 – Joy vs. happiness: Daily choices and long-term reward 18:31 – Outdoor joy: Hiking and hunting analogies 20:45 – Chemical imbalance, grief, and suppressing emotion 23:12 – The danger of judging emotions as “bad” or “good” 25:35 – Emotional numbness: Brene Brown and the hand analogy 27:59 – Using emotions as data: Embracing the full spectrum 30:25 – Permission for happiness and being your own worst critic 32:48 – Comparing ourselves, social media, and boundaries 35:13 – Final encouragement: Give yourself grace and pursue connection Contact Info & Feedback: Email: feedback@aftersight.org Voicemail Line: (720) 712-8856 Let us know your thoughts, questions, or emotional check-ins. We’d love to hear from you.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren sits down with Neva Fairchild—an advocate, counselor, and technological leader in the blind community—for a powerful conversation about resilience, adaptation, and acceptance. Born with a visual impairment that went undiagnosed until preschool, Neva takes us through her journey of coping with undiagnosed Stargardt disease, the challenges of navigating school without accommodations, and ultimately building a career that has reshaped the lives of others with vision loss. Neva shares how she learned to stop hiding her condition, embraced assistive technology, and found her true calling later in life among those who not only lived with blindness—but thrived in it. Her story is a call to action to advocate for better services, honest conversations with doctors and families, and the dignity that comes from asking for help. Neva’s journey is one of transformation—from a child who struggled to be understood, to a national leader who now empowers others to live well with vision loss. Key Topics Covered: Neva’s early signs of vision loss and misdiagnosis Learning to pass in a sighted world and the emotional toll Breaking through shame and isolation by meeting others with blindness How technology and the right support changed everything Her work with AFB and advocacy for older adults with vision loss The importance of honesty, asking for help, and normalizing blindness Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight 01:00 – Neva’s diagnosis and early childhood struggles 04:45 – Going blind in adulthood: The emotional and medical shock 07:00 – Coping mechanisms, stubbornness, and a hunger to live fully 10:00 – The power of blind community and assistive technology 12:20 – Transitioning from enlargement to screen readers 14:30 – The shame of visibility and learning to accept her identity 17:00 – Career in blindness rehab and helping others thrive 21:00 – Advocacy for better doctor referrals and more vision specialists 23:45 – Final advice: "Blindness isn’t a character flaw" 26:00 – Closing thoughts and contact info

In this special episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren and producer Jonathan Price respond to listener-submitted questions about their recent 12-part series on the 12-Step Program. From fear of surrender in Step 1 to doubts about spiritual connection in Step 11 and uncertainty about helping others in Step 12, this conversation is raw, honest, and deeply human. Listeners from across the U.S. and beyond wrote in to ask deeply personal questions: How do I surrender without giving up on myself? What if my moral inventory in Step 4 changes how I see myself? How can I make amends without reopening wounds? What do I do when God feels distant? Can I really help someone else if I’m still healing? Bill shares real-world insights and practical, compassionate guidance rooted in decades of therapeutic experience. Jonathan offers encouragement, reframing each question with empathy and hope. The episode ends with a teaser for their next mini-series: exploring four foundational emotions—mad, glad, sad, and scared—and how these emotions interplay with logic, recovery, and identity. Whether you’re in recovery or walking alongside someone who is, this episode offers a powerful reminder: you are not alone, and healing is possible. ⏱️ Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight 00:46 – Letters from Listeners 02:30 – Shannon (Step 1): Letting Go Without Losing Yourself 09:45 – Devin (Step 4): Afraid of What I’ll Find 17:10 – Tasha (Step 9): Making Amends Without Causing Harm 22:00 – Chris (Step 11): Feeling Spiritually Blocked 26:45 – Ellie (Step 12): Can I Help While Still Healing? 31:45 – What’s Next: Mad, Glad, Sad, and Scared 33:55 – Feedback & Farewell

In this raw and transformative episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren sits down with Zach Tidwell, a blind Marine Corps veteran, adaptive athlete, software developer, and suicide survivor. Zach shares the deeply personal story of his journey—from a suicide attempt that left him blind and deaf in one ear, to confronting alcoholism, a devastating Huntington’s diagnosis, and ultimately rebuilding a life of resilience and purpose. Through adaptive sports, therapy, coding, and brutal self-honesty, Zach not only survived—he thrived. Zach speaks openly about the critical importance of speaking up, learning healthy coping strategies, asking for help, and embracing your agency in the face of despair. This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing internal battles—or for those supporting someone who is. ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide and addiction. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988, and press 1 if you're a veteran. Contact Information: Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 for veterans Aftersight Feedback Line: (720) 712-8856 Email: feedback@aftersight.org Zach Tidwell Website: https://www.zachtidwell.net Podcast: Going in Blind with Zach Tidwell (available on all platforms) Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight 01:05 – Meet Zach Tidwell: Marine, survivor, and adaptive athlete 02:14 – Betrayal, trauma, and the downward spiral 04:38 – Depression, drinking, and suicidal thoughts 06:53 – Surviving a self-inflicted gunshot wound 09:11 – “I’m not making salt and pepper shakers” — reclaiming identity 11:31 – Adaptive sports and rediscovering independence 13:52 – The power of speaking up during the lowest point 16:13 – Why Zach became a blind software developer 18:23 – Relapse and the battle with alcoholism 20:46 – Xanagrams and finding purpose through accessibility 22:45 – Accountability, acceptance, and hard choices 25:03 – The final drink: December 5, 2023 27:26 – The Huntington’s diagnosis and choosing to live intentionally 29:53 – Competing in sports and doing it differently 32:19 – Adapting your world by accepting help 34:39 – VA Blind Rehab Services and veteran resources 36:44 – Suicide prevention hotline and how to get help 38:00 – Zach’s projects, book, and podcast 40:10 – Final thoughts: Growth is painful but worth it

In this heartfelt and grounded episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren wraps up the 12-step series with guest Kevin Petersen, focusing on Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous: Having had a spiritual awakening... we tried to carry this message to alcoholics and to practice these principles in all our affairs. Kevin brings clarity, humor, and wisdom to the spiritual and practical sides of Step 12. They unpack what a “spiritual awakening” really looks like—hint: it’s not lightning bolts—and how helping others starts with showing up and being human. This conversation digs deep into humility, relapse, perfectionism, and why stability is the new sexy. Whether you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or just want to live a more honest and connected life, this episode is a gift. ⏱️ Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight 01:00 – Step 12: Reading and breakdown 02:15 – The circle and triangle: spiritual and technical meaning 03:50 – Carrying the mess vs. the message 04:35 – Having a spiritual awakening: what it really means 06:40 – Humility and helping others (without losing yourself) 09:20 – “Stability is the new sexy” 10:55 – What’s the message we carry? (Hint: It’s hope) 13:00 – Relapse, grace, and compassion in recovery 15:50 – Why shame doesn’t heal anyone 17:45 – Perfectionism in the blind and disabled communities 20:30 – God moments, FaceTime sign language, and awareness 22:50 – Practicing the principles in all our affairs 25:15 – Humanity > Perfection 27:45 – Recovery as a second chance 30:15 – Final thoughts: Community, flexibility, and finding joy 32:30 – Feedback invitation and contact info 📞 Contact Info Phone: (720) 712-8856 Email: feedback@aftersight.org Website: aftersight.org

In this deeply reflective episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren and returning guest Joe dive into Step 11 of the 12-Step Program: “Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God’s will for us and the power to carry that out.” Together, they explore the tension and beauty in surrendering our will, discuss the spiritual ambiguity many newcomers wrestle with, and unpack the core purpose of prayer and meditation in recovery—not as a way to get what we want, but to align ourselves with something far more trustworthy: God’s will. With honesty and care, the conversation touches on religious trauma, the fluidity of the "higher power" concept, and the sacred act of showing up each morning and simply asking. Bill and Joe also unpack the Prayer of St. Francis, the importance of not running the show, and why taking it easy isn’t laziness—it’s wisdom. ⏱️ Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight 01:15 – What is Step 11? 02:15 – Joe’s background with God entering recovery 04:00 – Religious trauma and spiritual abuse 06:30 – Higher Power vs “God” terminology 07:45 – Bill W, Carl Jung, and Benedictine roots 09:15 – “Upon awakening…” – morning meditation guidance 12:30 – Asking for freedom from self-will 13:50 – “Take it easy” and the myth of urgency 14:30 – Ambition, success, and God’s will 17:00 – Suffering, Job, and the mystery of evil 19:00 – The Prayer of St. Francis 21:30 – Self-care vs. helping others 23:00 – The trap of codependency and false humility 26:30 – The train-and-candle metaphor 28:15 – Richard Rohr, atheism, and a hostile universe 30:00 – Drops of God: how to seek and notice 31:50 – Final thoughts: “Keep coming back. It works.” 📞 Contact Us Got feedback? Questions? Want to share your story? 📧 Email: feedback@aftersight.org 📞 Call/Text: 720-712-8856

In this raw and thoughtful episode of Blindsight, Bill Lundgren sits down with Joe, a longtime friend and retired physician who brings 34 years of personal recovery experience to the mic. Together, they dive into Step 10 of the 12-step program: “Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.” But as Joe reveals, it’s not always about being wrong. Sometimes, it’s about being right—and still needing to take a step back. This episode unpacks the tricky territory of righteous anger, resentment, and the danger of spiritual pride, especially in a world full of division and injustice. Joe opens up about the personal coal of unresolved bitterness and how Step 10 keeps him grounded, honest, and able to maintain serenity. From real-time reflections on political outrage to resisting hatred when you feel justified, this conversation is a must-hear for anyone striving to stay clean, sober, and spiritually awake in a chaotic world. Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Intro: Time to Fight. Time to Thrive. 01:30 – What is Step 10 and why does it matter now? 04:00 – Righteous anger and how it steals serenity 07:15 – Resentment disguised as justice 10:00 – A personal example: healthcare rage and assassination 13:45 – When resentment turns into internal damage 16:30 – The difference between hopelessness and serenity 18:45 – Anger vs. Resentment: Why addicts must pause 21:00 – Maintaining relationships across divides 24:00 – The challenge of taking a kindly view of everyone 27:30 – Walking away without severing ties 30:00 – Resentment, prevention, and avoiding future amends 32:30 – Choosing peace over being right 34:00 – Final thoughts and hope for those still fighting Contact Info: 📞 Feedback line: (720) 712-8865 📧 Email: feedback@aftersight.org

In this powerful episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren is joined by Kevin Peterson, a counselor, author, and long-time advocate for mental health and recovery. Together, they unpack Step Nine of the 12 Steps: "Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others." Kevin shares deeply personal and emotional stories about the power of taking full responsibility for the harm we’ve caused — not just through apologies, but through real amends. He explains the technical process of Step Nine (including four key questions), the spiritual courage it takes to show up in person, and the role your Higher Power plays in facilitating healing and reconciliation. Listeners will gain insights into the difference between guilt and accountability, how to avoid further harm in the process, and why this step is a true marker of maturity in recovery. Whether you’re in a 12-step program or simply navigating a journey of healing and growth, Kevin’s candid storytelling and grounded wisdom will move you. He’ll be back next week to go even deeper—so stay tuned. ⏱️ Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Opening and Welcome: Mental health and the journey through the 12 Steps 01:10 – Kevin Peterson’s sobriety journey and introduction to Step 9 02:20 – Step 4 and 9: Where people tend to drop out 03:30 – Technical vs. Spiritual: Understanding Step 9’s dual nature 04:45 – How to identify who to make amends to 05:30 – The 4 components of making amends 07:00 – The difference between apology and amends 08:20 – Doing it in person and trusting your Higher Power 09:30 – Emotional impact stories: Lost relationship 11:30 – Story of financial harm and deeper consequences 13:50 – Real accountability and taking ownership 15:00 – Turning it over to your Higher Power 16:30 – Facing legal risks in the amends process 17:50 – Al-Anon, honesty, and being tested in the process 18:30 – Big or small, all amends matter 19:30 – Step 9 as a maturity marker in recovery 21:00 – How to handle amends that could harm others 22:40 – Final thoughts: Step 9 separates adults from children in recovery 23:30 – Closing and feedback information

In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren continues the journey through the 12-step program, diving into Step Eight: "Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all." Returning guest Jeff Schlund from the Betty Ford Center shares honest and heartfelt reflections on what it means to be ready to make amends—and how this step was a turning point in his own recovery. They discuss how memory, humility, and fear all play roles in the process, and why putting ourselves on the list of those we’ve harmed might be one of the most overlooked yet healing parts of the journey. Jeff shares his story of relapse and resilience, and how step eight helped him discover a deeper sense of accountability, hope, and empowerment. ⏱️ Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Introduction to Step Eight 02:24 – Jeff’s recovery story and Betty Ford experience 04:45 – The evolving list of people harmed 07:09 – Making amends to yourself 09:29 – The danger of unchecked guilt 11:07 – Step Eight is not a race 14:45 – The difference between amends and apology 18:38 – Accepting outcomes when making amends 20:40 – Jumping ahead to Step Nine too soon 22:18 – The importance of readiness and memory 24:24 – Jeff's personal turning point 27:59 – Real support from others in recovery 30:22 – The roots of the program and real change 32:31 – Surrender and serious recovery 34:42 – Relief and empowerment from willingness 36:16 – “The only thing you have to change is everything” 38:14 – Closing thoughts and next episode preview 📱 Contact Info: We’d love your feedback! 📞 Call us: 720-712-8856 📧 Email us: feedback@aftersight.org

In this episode of Blindsight, we continue our journey through the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, focusing on Step Seven: Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings. Host Bill Lundgren welcomes back Jeff Shlund, who started our series with Step One, to break down the meaning and personal impact of this step. They discuss the role of humility, self-awareness, and seeking support in overcoming personal flaws. The conversation explores how Step Seven applies beyond addiction, including in the blindness community, and why progress—not perfection—is the key to growth. Chapter Markers: ⏱ 00:00 – Welcome to Blindsight ⏱ 02:23 – Understanding Step Seven: Asking for help in recovery ⏱ 04:18 – The Seventh Step Prayer and its impact on daily life ⏱ 06:33 – Recognizing personal shortcomings and seeking growth ⏱ 08:37 – The power of self-awareness in the recovery process ⏱ 11:01 – Seeking professional help: Therapy, medication, and sponsors ⏱ 15:44 – Breaking the stigma: Medication in recovery ⏱ 18:03 – Building a strong support system ⏱ 22:02 – Applying Step Seven beyond addiction ⏱ 24:26 – Step Seven in the blindness community ⏱ 26:13 – Growth, self-acceptance, and lifelong progress ⏱ 28:40 – Revisiting earlier steps for deeper healing ⏱ 31:21 – Working the steps at your own pace ⏱ 33:25 – Final thoughts: Accepting ourselves while striving to improve ⏱ 35:26 – Closing remarks & listener feedback Key Takeaways: ✅ Step Seven teaches humility—asking a higher power to help remove shortcomings. ✅ Higher Power is personal and can take different forms for different people. ✅ Professional help (therapy, medication) is valuable and not a sign of failure. ✅ Recovery isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress and daily growth. Listener Feedback & Contact: 📞 Blindsight Hotline: (720) 712-8856 📩 Email: feedback@aftersight.org We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Have questions or suggestions for future topics? Get in touch! 🎧 Join us next week for Step Eight: Making Amends.

This week on Blindsight, we’re taking a pause from our 12-step series to focus on trauma—what it is, how it impacts recovery, and why understanding it is essential for personal growth. Host Bill Lundgren sits down with Anneliese Knop, a mental health counselor, to explore how trauma affects our sense of safety, our ability to set boundaries, and the ways it ties into addiction and the 12-step program. Together, they dive into the connection between trauma and Step 6, the role of self-agency in healing, and how we can take ownership of our recovery by creating safe spaces. Whether you’re working through the 12 steps, dealing with past trauma, or just looking to understand the impact of emotional wounds, this episode offers valuable insight. Next week, we’re back on track with Step 7: Surrendering to a Higher Power, featuring special guest Jeff Schlund. Chapter Markers ⏱ 00:00 – Introduction: Why we’re pausing the 12-step series to discuss trauma ⏱ 01:30 – The role of trauma in addiction and recovery ⏱ 02:14 – Meet our guest: Anneliese Knop, mental health counselor ⏱ 04:17 – What is trauma? Defining emotional and psychological wounds ⏱ 06:24 – Understanding compassion fatigue and its connection to trauma ⏱ 08:52 – Trauma in the disability community: Grief, microaggressions, and identity ⏱ 11:06 – Safe spaces and the foundation for healing ⏱ 14:42 – Accepting what we can’t control and moving forward ⏱ 16:58 – Step 6 and trauma: Recognizing our patterns and wounds ⏱ 19:03 – Internal Family Systems Therapy and how it applies to the 12-step journey ⏱ 21:19 – Preview of next week’s episode: Step 7 with Jeff Schlund ⏱ 23:41 – Addiction as a false sense of control: How trauma plays a role ⏱ 26:48 – Boundaries, consent, and self-agency in trauma recovery ⏱ 31:25 – The power of saying “no” and reclaiming autonomy ⏱ 38:10 – Final takeaways: Trauma healing starts with safety ⏱ 39:51 – Closing thoughts and listener feedback details Contact Information 📞 Feedback Line: (720) 712-8856 📧 Email: feedback@aftersight.org 📢 Follow us for more updates and episodes! 🔗 #BlindsightPodcast #MentalHealth #12StepRecovery #TraumaHealing #DisabilityAdvocacy #BoundariesMatter

In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren welcomes back Jeff Schlund from the Betty Ford Center to discuss Step Six of the 12-Step Program. Step Six is about being entirely ready to have a higher power remove defects of character. Jeff shares insights from his 22 years of sobriety, emphasizing that alcoholism is not a defect of character but a disease—while defects of character arise from behavior patterns that develop alongside addiction. The discussion covers topics such as perfectionism, shame, and self-doubt, highlighting how these issues affect both people in recovery and those outside of it. Bill and Jeff explore: The fear and relief that comes with surrendering to a higher power How accountability partners, therapists, and sponsors can provide guidance Why taking action—even if imperfect—is crucial to personal growth The broader applicability of Step Six beyond substance addiction Jeff shares personal reflections on his own recovery journey and how making a conscious decision to let go of destructive habits led him toward a healthier, more intentional life. Chapter Markers: ⏱ 00:20 – Introduction by Bill Lundgren, discussing Step Six and welcoming Jeff Schlund ⏱ 02:32 – What is Step Six? Being ready to remove defects of character ⏱ 04:47 – Alcoholism as a disease vs. defects of character ⏱ 07:10 – Common defects: Perfectionism, shame, dishonesty ⏱ 09:39 – The challenge of turning over defects to a higher power ⏱ 11:50 – Recognizing patterns in behavior and making changes ⏱ 13:57 – The role of therapists, sponsors, and accountability ⏱ 16:20 – Why Step Six is a ‘half-step’ leading to deeper work ⏱ 19:40 – Learning to take responsibility and seek help ⏱ 26:08 – Perfectionism in recovery and for people with disabilities ⏱ 31:30 – Advice for taking action and embracing change ⏱ 34:41 – Closing thoughts, resources, and where to find help Resources & Contact Information: 📞 Blindsight Feedback Line: (720) 712-8856 📧 Email: feedback@aftersight.org 💡 Additional Resources: Alcoholics Anonymous Intergroup (Find accessible meetings and resources) Betty Ford Center (Support for addiction recovery)

In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren sits down with Pamela Rueda, creator of My Badass Recovery, to explore Step 5 of the 12-Step Program. Together, they unpack the significance of admitting our wrongs to ourselves, to another person, and to a higher power. Pamela shares her deeply personal journey through addiction, recovery, and the emotional weight of confronting shame, guilt, and self-perception in the healing process. Pamela and Bill also discuss the importance of selecting the right person to share your Step 5 with, the necessity of radical honesty, and how shame can be a major barrier to recovery. They emphasize how finding a trusted sponsor, creating a safe space for vulnerability, and taking a leap of faith can lead to transformative freedom. Key Discussion Points & Chapter Markers (00:26) – Introduction with host Bill Lundgren (01:29) – Guest introduction: Pamela Rueda and My Badass Recovery (01:48) – What is Step 5? Admitting the exact nature of our wrongs (02:27) – Pamela’s personal recovery journey and the fears around Step 5 (04:14) – Shame, self-perception, and breaking free from past identity (06:37) – The challenge of opening up and being radically honest (08:48) – Selecting the right sponsor: trust, wisdom, and higher power (11:56) – How to actually go through Step 5: process, structure, and commitment (14:38) – The role of a sponsor: “I’m not here to be your friend” (16:43) – The fear of judgment and seeking approval in recovery (18:35) – Relapse and learning from past experiences (22:24) – Understanding shame vs. guilt: The impact on recovery (25:09) – The cycle of addiction and self-judgment (28:57) – The power of sharing: How vulnerability defeats shame (32:48) – When and how to disclose your recovery journey (35:15) – Avoiding the dangers of oversharing and measuring trust (39:43) – Understanding motives behind sharing your story (40:55) – Closing thoughts: Taking the leap of faith in recovery Key Takeaways & Calls to Action Shame thrives in secrecy – Bringing shame into the light through honesty helps break its power. Choosing the right person for Step 5 is crucial – A sponsor should be trustworthy, wise, and aligned with your healing journey. Healing is an ongoing process – If we don’t uncover all aspects of our struggles, they can resurface later in life. Measure your vulnerability – Not everyone is safe to share with; trust and intuition play a vital role. The power of sharing – Speaking your truth in a safe space leads to self-acceptance and healing. Connect & Support Feedback? Questions? Call us at (720) 712-8856 or email feedback@aftersight.org. Support Aftersight – Your contributions help us continue making impactful content for the blind and low-vision community. Thank you for listening to Blindsight. Stay strong, stay connected, and see you next time.