Beyond Sight: A BISM Podcast

In this month’s episode of Beyond Sight, hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon sit down with Gold STAR student Adam Shrieves, Access Technology Instructor Lina Howard, and IT and Training Coordinator Kyle Garcia to break down their favorite assistive technology, and the features that drive them crazy.

In this episode of Beyond Sight, hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon sit down with BISM President Mike Gosse and Chief Revenue Officer Tony Rodriguez to look back on the past fiscal year, the milestones reached, and what's ahead for the organization.

In this month's episode of Beyond Sight, hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon sit down with Sophia Keil, Operations Technology and Process Improvement Engineer, and Shane Jones, Director of Operations, to dig into what inclusivity in manufacturing really means in practice. The conversation looks at how BISM builds workplaces where blind and low-vision employees aren't just accommodated but central to the operation. Together, they share how improving the production floor opens up meaningful, sustainable employment and moves us all a little further Beyond Sight.

Join hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon for Episode 23 of Beyond Sight: A BISM Podcast, Faces of BISM Jaeah + Terri. IIn this episode they sit down with BISM's HR Director Jaeah Fortune and HR Generalist Terri Walker to explore what human resources looks like inside a disability-focused organization, how the department has evolved under Jaeah's leadership, and how both women decompress when the workday is done.

Join hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon for Episode 22 of Beyond Sight: A BISM Podcast, ITR's 40-Year Legacy of Transformation. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of BISM’s Independence Training and Rehabilitation (ITR) programs, we invited several key figures throughout its history to reflect on the program’s evolution. One recurring theme that kept coming up: how ITR creates opportunities and empowers those who are living with blindness. Join us for this special episode where ITR staff members and community partners share their experiences with the program and how it has shaped their career trajectories.

Join hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon for Episode 21 of Beyond Sight: A BISM Podcast, The Power of a BISM Internship. In this episode, they explore how BISM’s internship program opens doors for blind and low-vision individuals to gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and discover meaningful career pathways. From real-world projects and mentorship to learning workplace skills in a supportive environment, this conversation highlights how internships can be a powerful stepping stone toward long-term success and independence. Tune in to hear how BISM is helping interns turn their talents into opportunity and future careers.

Join us for this episode of Beyond Sight as our hosts explore the world of adaptive sports and the power of making athletics accessible to everyone. We’re joined by special guests from the League of Dreams, who share how their organization is leveling the playing field for athletes of all abilities. From the excitement of beep baseball to the broader impact of inclusive recreation, this conversation highlights how adaptive sports give people the chance to compete, connect, and dream big. Tune in to hear how the game is changing—and why everyone deserves the chance to play ball.

Join us for this month’s episode of Beyond Sight as we talk about the journey of learning, growing, and knowing among the blind and low-vision community. We talk about the importance of finding resources and community — and especially, that feeling of “belonging.” With our special guests to share their unique perspectives as an individual who is blind and a parent of a child who is blind, we’re finding out what it means to go Beyond Sight.

Join hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon for this episode as they celebrate the powerful role Braille plays in literacy, communication, and independence for people who are blind or low vision. From a candid reminder that “if technology died, we would have no way of communicating besides Braille,” to a deeper dive into the different grades of Braille, this conversation highlights why Braille still matters. Plus, test your knowledge as they guess how many Braille volumes it takes to make up the first Harry Potter book—and reflect on the lasting impact of Louis Braille’s legacy.

In the first of what we hope will be many episodes in our new Faces of BISM series, hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon sit down with Andy McIver, Senior Director of Programs, and Jessica Normington, Director of Development and Communications, to reflect on their experiences with BISM. The conversation looks ahead to what’s coming in 2026, explores the important shift from being “amazed” to having expectations when it comes to the capabilities of blind people, and — of course — includes a little behind-the-scenes storytelling along the way.

In this month’s episode, we’re digging into what advocacy really looks like in practice. Qualik Ford and Derique Simon sit down with members of the BISM community to unpack the work happening every day to advance the rights of blind individuals—on the job, in classrooms, and across our communities. From breaking down misconceptions to pushing for meaningful policy change, our guests share real stories about using their voices, their expertise, and their lived experience to drive progress. “Advocacy in Action” is a reminder that change isn’t abstract—it’s personal, it’s practical, and it’s powered by people who believe blind individuals deserve the same opportunities to thrive and lead.

This month, hosts Qualik and Derique sit down with BISM Orientation and Mobility instructor Antonio Mendoza and Maurice Pete, a seasoned O&M instructor, talk all things white cane — from early lessons to everyday independence. Together, they share how this simple tool represents freedom, confidence, and equality for blind and low-vision travelers. Tune in for real stories, practical insights, and a celebration of the movement that keeps us all moving forward.

This month, we spotlight accessible technology that’s transforming daily life for blind and low-vision individuals. From simple, low-tech hacks to cutting-edge tools, we dig into what truly breaks down barriers, boosts independence, and strengthens connection. You’ll hear practical tips, favorite go-to tools, and smart ways to choose tech that fits your life—whether you’re just getting started or leveling up your setup.

In this special anniversary episode, the tables are turned as BISM President Mike Gosse interviews hosts Qualik Ford and Melissa Riccobono. Together, they reflect on a year of Beyond Sight — sharing insights, lessons learned, favorite moments, and plenty of laughter along the way. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s been like to host the podcast, and why the stories shared over the past year matter so deeply to the blind community and beyond.

Join hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon as they go #BeyondSight to learn about BISM’s workforce development programs and how we’re helping people tailor their capabilities to maximize their potential.

Join host Qualik with special guests Dezman Jackson, BISM Board member, and Garrett Moody, MD States Attorney as they celebrate their diverse talents, hobbies, and achievements being blind. Our guests will share their personal stories, passions, and professional milestones, illustrating that blindness is just one part of a rich and full life. Their experiences showcase resilience, creativity, and the power of pursuing one’s dreams without limits.

In this episode, we explore BISM’s Base Supply Centers and how they create meaningful employment opportunities for people who are blind. Learn how every purchase — whether on a military installation or online — supports our mission of empowerment and independence.

In this month’s episode, Empowering Seniors Through Life Skills Training, we highlight BISM’s Senior Programs — designed to equip blind and low vision seniors with essential life skills for greater independence. Listen in as students and instructors share their experiences, from learning practical techniques to building confidence and community. 🎙️ Hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon are joined by instructors Amy and Alycia, along with students Wendy and Joann. Together, they share personal stories that showcase the powerful impact of BISM’s training and the importance of connection at every stage of life.

Hosts Qualik Ford and Derique Simon sit down with Melissa Riccobonno, First Lady of the National Federation of the Blind and Board Member of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC). Together, they listen to recorded clips from February’s NFBMD convention in Ocean City, Maryland, and explore how the convention fosters community, innovation, and empowerment for blind individuals. From advocacy to networking, this episode dives into the impact of gathering as a movement to shape a brighter future.

This episode showcases the collaboration between BISM and Checkerspot Brewery to support the blind and low vision community. Guests discuss BISM’s outreach, the creation of BLIND SPOT beer, fostering community partnerships, and how listeners can engage with Blind Industries' mission and upcoming events.