Visions of BVA

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

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. 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. From flying in cramped B-52 cockpits to returning to the classroom as a legally blind JROTC instructor, Brian reflects on leadership, resilience, identity, adaptive sports, music, and helping students realize opportunities they never thought possible. Listeners can also read more about Brian in the Norwich University article, "Flying Blind: From B-52s to the Classroom": https://www.norwich.edu/news/flying-blind-b-52s-classroom [https://www.norwich.edu/news/flying-blind-b-52s-classroom]

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

Update: Meta has announced a new initiative to provide free Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses to eligible blind veterans in the United States. Blind and low-vision veterans can learn more and request their glasses through the Blinded Veterans Association at https://bva.org/glasses. Veterans interested in connecting with other blinded veterans, learning about available resources, and participating in training opportunities are encouraged to learn more about membership and programs through the Blinded Veterans Association. 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 look at both the strengths and limitations of the glasses, and how they can enhance independence when used as part of a larger toolkit. Whether you are considering Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses for yourself or simply want to learn more about emerging accessibility technology, this episode offers practical insights from the perspective of a blinded veteran and technology user.

BVA Bulletin – Winter 2026 (Volume 81, Number 1) block quote level 1

In this bulletin episode of Visions of BVA, we present the Winter 2026 edition of the BVA Bulletin (Volume 81, Number 1). This quarterly publication highlights key updates, leadership messages, and initiatives impacting blind and low vision veterans and their families. Hear from BVA National President Wade Davis and Executive Director Leah Rowe as they outline a vision for growth, connection, and innovation in 2026. This issue also explores new programming, expanded interest groups, advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill, and the continued impact of BVA's care review partnership with the VA. Additional features include personal stories from veterans, updates on benefits and services, community initiatives, scholarship opportunities, and inspiring achievements from BVA members across the country. The BVA Bulletin keeps members informed, connected, and empowered—reinforcing the mission of blinded veterans helping blinded veterans.

Music Therapy Through Sound: Accessible Ways for the Blind to Create and Explore Audio

In this episode of Visions of BVA, host Steve Baskis explores the power of music therapy and how blind and low vision individuals can engage with sound in a meaningful, creative, and accessible way. Steve shares his personal journey of rebuilding his life after vision loss and how learning audio and music production led him to produce the Visions of BVA podcast. He introduces simple ways to begin creating sound—without needing formal musical training or complex equipment—using tools that are accessible and widely available. You'll hear how devices like MIDI controllers and software from Native Instruments can open the door to creativity, allowing you to explore music, sound, and expression right from your computer. Steve also briefly introduces more advanced tools like Pro Tools, while emphasizing that this episode is an overview meant to inspire and guide—not overwhelm. Whether you're looking for a therapeutic outlet, a creative hobby, or even a new direction in life, this episode offers a starting point and encourages you to explore what's possible through sound. Resources & Links: Learn more about Pro Tools Intro, a free version of the industry-standard digital audio workstation: https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/intro [https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/intro] Explore Pro Tools accessibility resources and guides for blind and visually impaired users: https://ptaccess.github.io [https://ptaccess.github.io/] Check out Flo Tools, a powerful accessibility tool designed to improve workflow in Pro Tools: https://flotools.org/Flo%20Tools/ [https://flotools.org/Flo%20Tools/] Discover Native Instruments and their ecosystem of software and hardware for music creation: https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ [https://www.native-instruments.com/en/] If you have specific questions or want help getting started, feel free to reach out directly: sbaskis@bva.org [sbaskis@bva.org]

Autonomous Transit and Accessibility: A Conversation with Gregory Crandell of HOLON US Inc.

In this episode of Visions of BVA, host Steve Baskis sits down with Gregory Crandell, General Manager of HOLON US Inc., to discuss the future of autonomous shuttle transportation and what it could mean for blind and visually impaired riders. Gregory shares his background in the automotive industry and explains how HOLON's autonomous vehicle is being developed to support first-mile/last-mile transportation—helping people travel from neighborhoods and smaller roads to larger transit routes and transportation hubs. The conversation explores how the vehicle is being designed with accessibility in mind, including input from focus groups involving blind, wheelchair, and hearing-impaired riders. Steve and Gregory also discuss the importance of consistent audio communication, safety redundancy, and how autonomous transit could expand mobility options for veterans and others who rely on public transportation. This episode offers a look at how emerging transportation technology may help improve independence, confidence, and access for the blind and visually impaired community.