Visions of BVA

Visions of BVA" is a dynamic and engaging podcast dedicated to exploring the rich stories, challenges, and achievements within the Blinded Veterans Association community. Through compelling narratives, insightful interviews, and the latest developments in accessible technology, this podcast aims to illuminate the diverse experiences of blind veterans, offering education, inspiration, and a sense of connection. With special episodes featuring influential guests and coverage of significant events, "Visions of BVA" serves as a pivotal platform for advocacy, awareness, and camaraderie among veterans and the visually impaired community at large.

Visions of BVA is a society podcast hosted by Blinded Veterans Association, with 42 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Blinded Veterans Association hosts Visions of BVA, a society show with 42 episodes published.

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  Episode #42

  BVA Bulletin – Summer 2026 Volume 81, Number 3

  Oct 1, 20261h 38m

  In this special bulletin edition of Visions of BVA, we present the complete audio version of the Summer 2026 BVA Bulletin (Volume 81, Number 3). Inside this issue, BVA National President Wade Davis reflects on his first year as National President and the Association's continued growth, while Executive Director Lea Rowe discusses the strength of BVA's collective voice and advocacy on behalf of blind and low vision veterans. The legislative update examines current veterans legislation, benefits, accessibility, VA health care, and issues affecting the blind veteran community. Technology and independence are major themes throughout this edition. The Bulletin explores the Meta AI app and accessibility features available with Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses, along with Meta's nationwide effort to provide the glasses to blind and low vision veterans and BVA's role in training and distribution. This issue also takes a closer look at VA Blind Rehabilitation Centers and the life-changing skills, confidence, and independence veterans can gain through blind rehabilitation. Additional features cover adaptive sports and recreation, tandem cycling, the National Veterans Golden Age Games, TSA PreCheck eligibility for certain disabled veterans, BVA's rapidly growing membership, the VISOR Care Review program, the Ambassadog comic book project, scholarships, regional activities, member achievements, veterans benefits, and stories from across the BVA community. Whether you are a blinded veteran, family member, caregiver, rehabilitation professional, or supporter of the blindness community, the Summer 2026 BVA Bulletin offers news, resources, advocacy updates, technology, and stories highlighting the people and programs of the Blinded Veterans Association.

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  Episode #40

  Blind Golf and the United States Blind Golf Association

  Aug 1, 202640 min

  How does someone who is blind play golf? In this episode, Steve Baskis explores the world of blind golf with two guests from the United States Blind Golf Association. Bob Banks, President of the United States Blind Golf Association, discusses the organization's history, mission, and the opportunities it provides for blind and visually impaired golfers. He also explains how new golfers, volunteers, coaches, and supporters can become involved. Brian Oglesbee, a completely blind golfer and USBGA member, shares his personal experience with the sport. He talks about working with a sighted coach, trusting the process, and what keeps him returning to the game. This conversation offers a closer look at blind golf, adaptive sports, and the opportunities available to people who are blind or visually impaired. To learn more about the United States Blind Golf Association, visit usblindgolf.com .

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  Episode #39

  BVA Bulletin – Spring 2026 (Volume 81, Number 2)

  Jul 1, 20261h 49m

  In this special bulletin edition of Visions of BVA, we present the complete audio version of the Spring 2026 BVA Bulletin (Volume 81, Number 2). Inside this issue, National President Wade Davis discusses embracing technology to strengthen independence for blind and low vision veterans. Executive Director Lea Rowe shares BVA's vision for the future through expanded programs, educational resources, and member engagement, while the latest legislative update covers federal legislation affecting veterans' benefits, caregiver support, and constitutional rights. This edition also highlights inspiring stories from across the BVA community, including the District 1 Gathering in Hampton Roads, adaptive golf through PGA HOPE, a 335-mile tandem bicycle journey along the Great Allegheny Passage Trail, the BVA Ambassadog Program, Winter Sports Clinic activities, VA Care Reviews, assistive technology, membership initiatives, regional events, historical reflections, and much more. Whether you're a blinded veteran, family member, caregiver, rehabilitation professional, or supporter of the blindness community, this episode delivers the latest news, advocacy, resources, and inspiring stories from across the Blinded Veterans Association.

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  Episode #38

  Flying Blind: Brian O'Connell on Service, Vision Loss, Teaching, and Finding Purpose Again

  Jun 1, 202657 minS0

  <p>In this episode of Visions of BVA, host Steve Baskis speaks with Lt. Col. Brian O'Connell, USAF (Ret.), a former B-52 navigator and electronic warfare officer whose life of service continued long after his Air Force career.<br /> <br /> Brian shares how glaucoma gradually changed his vision and independence, how blind rehabilitation and the Blinded Veterans Association helped him reconnect with possibility, and how adaptive sports, music, mentorship, and teaching helped him rediscover purpose and confidence.<br /> <br /> From flying in cramped B-52 cockpits to returning to the classroom as a legally blind JROTC instructor, Brian reflects on leadership...

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  Episode #37

  Seeing Through Sound: Real-World Independence with Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses

  May 1, 202624 minS0

  <p>In this episode of Visions of BVA, Steve Baskis shares a real-world, experience-driven look at the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses from the perspective of a blinded veteran. From everyday use and entertainment to reading, communication, live translation, and object recognition, Steve walks through how these glasses perform in practical situations. Throughout the episode, you will hear audio demonstrations that highlight how the glasses respond in real time. Steve also explores how these glasses work alongside tools like Be My Eyes, Aira, and Oorion, and where they fit into the broader ecosystem of assistive technology. This episode provides an honest...

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