In this episode of Endeavor to Connect, host Steve Baskis is joined by his partner Ally for an honest, experience-based conversation about relationships that include blindness or visual impairment. Together, they explore how communication, independence, and mutual respect shape healthy partnerships—especially when visual cues are absent. Topics include first impressions, common misconceptions about blindness, balancing support versus caregiving, adapting to daily life, and learning to communicate clearly through tone, language, and trust. This episode is designed for partners, friends, caregivers, and anyone seeking a deeper, more realistic understanding of blind–sighted relationships. This conversation only scratches the surface, and future episodes will continue these discussions with additional voices from partners, caregivers, and the blind and visually impaired community. Stay tuned as the conversation continues.

In this episode of Endeavor to Connect, host Steve Baskis shares his personal reflections on the connection between blindness and mental health. Drawing from his experience of losing his sight during military service in Iraq, Steve talks about the early challenges of recovery, the feeling of isolation, and the process of learning to adapt. He discusses how blindness affected his independence, relationships, and mindset — and how small steps forward helped him rebuild confidence and find purpose. This conversation offers an honest look at adjustment, awareness, and the importance of movement and mental balance in everyday life.

In this episode of Endeavor to Connect, host Steve Baskis sits down with Joe Mornini, Executive Director of Team River Runner, to explore the power of adaptive paddling for veterans. Joe shares the origins of Team River Runner at Walter Reed in 2004, its growth to 45 chapters nationwide, and the unique "Out of Sight" programs that empower blind and visually impaired veterans to thrive on rivers, lakes, and oceans. Steve reflects on his personal journey—from early struggles with paddling after injury to tackling rivers across the country and even the Grand Canyon—thanks to the skills, community, and innovation fostered by Team River Runner. Together, they highlight the upcoming 21st Annual Biathlon in Washington, DC, and the importance of connection, teamwork, and shared experiences both on and off the water.

Learn more about Team River Runner and get involved at [

www.teamriverrunner.org

In this inspiring episode of Endeavor to Connect, host Steve Baskis sits down with fellow blind veteran, adventurer, and motivational speaker Lonnie Bedwell. From summiting towering peaks and kayaking the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, to mentoring others in adaptive sports, Lonnie shares his pursuit of the Explorers Grand Slam—a challenge to climb the highest peak on every continent and reach both poles. Together, Steve and Lonnie reflect on the power of community, the innovations that make adventure possible, and the mindset that turns obstacles into opportunities. Whether it's conquering mountains or mastering daily life skills, Lonnie's message is clear: take another step, because moving is living.

On the final day of an unforgettable adventure in Crested Butte, Colorado, blind and visually impaired veterans gather on the Oh-Be-Joyful Trail to reflect on a week filled with physical challenge, camaraderie, and personal growth. In this episode, host Steve Baskis captures raw, heartfelt conversations with fellow veterans and supporters during a mountain hike that marks the culmination of adaptive cycling, climbing, and rafting activities. These interviews offer insight into what it means to navigate life after vision loss—and how experiences like this can reignite purpose, independence, and connection. The episode also highlights the important work of the Adaptive Sports Center, which made this week of transformation possible. To learn more about the Adaptive Sports Center, visit https://adaptivesports.org

In this personal and revealing episode of Endeavor to Connect, Steve Baskis invites you into his home and daily life as a blind Army veteran. Through honest narration and immersive sound, he shares how he navigates the world without sight—offering insights into adaptive living, technology, and the overlooked details most people never consider. It's a rare glimpse into the quiet strength and ingenuity behind true independence.

In this first episode of *Endeavor to Connect*, host Steve Baskis shares his personal story of navigating life after sudden blindness due to a combat injury in Iraq. Steve, a blind Army veteran and founder of the Blind Endeavors Foundation, uses Apple's built-in screen reader, VoiceOver, to independently guide himself through 16 thoughtful questions.

He speaks candidly about the emotional impact of vision loss, adapting to a new reality, the role of technology in gaining independence, and the power of connecting with others who've been through similar experiences.

VoiceOver is a screen reader that allows blind and low vision users to interact with Apple devices using audio feedback and keyboard commands. Learn more about VoiceOver here: https://www.apple.com/accessibility/vision/

To dive deeper into this episode, including additional insights and reflections from Steve's story, visit the following blog post written by Susanne Meyer. She expands on topics Steve touches on and offers more detail for those wanting to explore further:
https://blindendeavors.org/beginning-the-journey-complementary-reflections-on-episode-1-of-endeavor-to-connect/

To learn more about the Blind Endeavors Foundation or to share your story, visit https://blindendeavors.org or email Steve directly at steve@blindendeavors.org.

Thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us for future episodes as we connect, share, and explore what's possible after vision loss.