Since its premier in November 2023, National Industries for the Blind’s Heard & Empowered podcast has amassed more than 1,700 unique downloads and countless listens. Its inspiring content, which is specifically tailored to people who are blind and visually impaired, has been heard around the globe, from Australia to Zambia, and 19 other countries in between.
“I am so proud of what we’re accomplishing with Heard & Empowered,” said Hoby Wedler, the podcast’s host. “Our guests opening their hearts and sharing their stories with us is what shows every listener, myself included, that anything is possible. We really do provide a platform where folks can share how they are celebrated in the workplace.”
Launched as a forum to share job and career insights, insider tips, and personal stories of people who are blind and have lived experience navigating the work world, over its nearly 30 episodes, the podcast has profiled a wide swathe of individuals . These guests come from nearly every walk of life: CEOs, retired military veterans, sighted parents who advocate for their children who are blind, and more. Each week, Wedler’s guests, all of whom are leading or working for or with NIB associated nonprofit agencies across the country, share personal stories about the ways they overcame adversity, successfully adapted and accommodated to the sighted world, and developed fulfilling careers. Some were born blind, while others lost their sight as adults. Many had to push past their own fears and self-doubt to get where they are now.
Wedler himself was born completely blind. He holds a Ph.D. in organic chemistry and has spent his life turning obstacles into opportunities. He has dedicated his career to breaking down barriers and creating inclusive spaces for people who are blind or visually impaired and, in 2016, Wedler was named to Forbes “30 Under 30” list of bright young entrepreneurs, leaders, and stars. His own story is featured on the first episode of the podcast.
But Heard & Empowered is not only a podcast for people who are blind or visually impaired – it’s also an invaluable resource for allies such as employers, educators, vocational trainers, policymakers, innovators, family members, advocates for social change, and anyone committed to building an inclusive society. Recent episodes feature a conversation between former U.S. Representative Luke Messer and Jeff Mittman, chief executive officer of Bosma Enterprises, as well as Kevin Lynch, who recently retired as NIB president and CEO after 30 years with the organization. His successor, new NIB CEO and President Soraya Correa, also recorded an episode.
“The Heard & Empowered podcast has been such an exciting vehicle for sharing NIB’s mission. Not only does it offer inspiring stories of people who are blind or visually impaired who are living fulfilling lives and building successful careers, but it also highlights the incredible work that NIB’s associated nonprofit agencies are doing,” said Aneta Zawila-Jordan, NIB vice president for marketing and communications.
Much of that work is focused on helping people who are blind or visually impaired achieve their employment goals.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the jobless rate for people with a disability is about twice as high as the rate for people without a disability. People who are blind have one of the highest unemployment rates, at 70%.
NIB is dedicated to changing these statistics. Heard & Empowered was created to help share success stories that offer encouragement to those people who are blind or visually impaired and may be going through similar situations. Through the podcast, listeners can access in-depth interviews with subject matter experts.
Passionate about building a more inclusive future where the next generation of individuals who are blind can aspire without limits and be accepted without bias, Wedler said serving as Heard & Empowered host is the highlight of his week. He even finds himself inspired by those he interviews.
“Every time I interview a guest, I prepare myself to be uplifted and rejuvenated. Hosting the podcast is not only rewarding for me; it helps my overall happiness and state of being. Our guests are incredible,” he said, adding his hosting role has encouraged him to think differently about what people who are blind or visually impaired can do in the workforce.
Wedler has also heard from Heard & Empowered listeners who are amazed at what podcast guests do every day.
“It’s not just a podcast for people interested in employment for the blind; it’s an inspirational podcast for everyone. Most listeners I know are ordinary people who had no idea NIB existed and absolutely love the work that’s being done,” he said, adding however, that “more than one listener has reached out to me with a sincere interest in hiring blind employees to work in their companies.”
Jordan said Heard & Empowered is helping expand the narrative about the abilities of people who are blind, many of whom have faced obstacles in achieving their career goals. She said it’s also helping those still on their journey who may need just a little encouragement – especially from others who have confronted similar barriers – to take the next step in their professional lives.
“We are thrilled with how well the podcast has been received, and hope we are able to continue chronicling the experiences of people who are blind, and those who help advocate for them, for a long time,” said Jordan.
Wedler can’t wait to see where Heard & Empowered goes next.
“I hope Heard & Empowered takes center stage in the world of employment, human resources, etc. And hiring managers need to know that there’s a workforce out there who is willing and able to work harder than their sighted peers and provides an angle of diversity that is unparalleled to their workplace.”
Visit heardandempowered.org to learn more and listen to all the episodes.