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24 minutes ago
24 minutes ago
27 min
Is there such a thing as a model Federationist or blind person? Is Federation philosophy a rigid set of rules? How do we provide support and raise expectations without judging each other’s choices? Anil and Melissa discuss these questions, dispel some common misconceptions, and point to some resources to help understand and apply the NFB philosophy.
Important links:
NFB Philosophy: What It Is and What It Is Not (Braille Monitor article by President Riccobono and others)
The nature of Independence (speech by Dr. Kenneth Jernigan given at the 1993 National Convention)

Jun 22, 2026
Jun 22, 2026
45 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Chris discuss the stories of blind people who have been negatively impacted by delays to ADA Title II and Section 504, and what we’re doing about them.

Jun 1, 2026
Jun 1, 2026
1hr 1 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by Corbb O’Connor and Deja Powell to discuss their experiences as blind parents and share advice for new or future moms and dads.

May 18, 2026
May 18, 2026
27 min
If you haven’t already submitted a policy proposal for consideration at the national convention in the form of a resolution, or are just curious about the process, then this episode will tell you everything you need to know.
President Riccobono talks with Resolutions Committee Chair, Donald Porterfield, who also serves as president of the National Federation of the Blind of Arizona and on our national Board of Directors, about how to submit a resolution, what happens once it’s submitted, and the importance of resolutions to the activity of our movement.
Submit your resolution to resolutions@nfb.org by June 4.

May 4, 2026
May 4, 2026
56 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by Gary Wunder. They dive into the story of Adelmo Vigil, president of the NFB of New Mexico. They discuss how he overcame obstacles such as being prevented from learning Braille, being told that he couldn’t teach in a mainstream public school, and his advocacy in the organized blind movement.

Apr 20, 2026
Apr 20, 2026
51 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Anil is joined by blind comedians Yvonne Neubert and Shannon Cantan. Tune in for laughs, great storytelling, and their journey through comedy.
Important Link
Homepage | National Federation of the Blind of Performing Arts Division

Apr 6, 2026
Apr 6, 2026
47 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by Denise Avant, Chairperson of our Membership Committee. They address misconceptions about the NFB and emphasize the importance of your voice within the organized blind movement.

Mar 23, 2026
Mar 23, 2026
44 min
In recognition of Women’s History Month, we are honoring blind women who have made significant contributions to the organized blind movement. In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by Joyce Brooks and Lois Staves, two women who have gone above and beyond to help blind people live the lives they want.

Mar 14, 2026
Mar 14, 2026
47 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by Ashleigh Moon, our STEM2U Coordinator. They celebrate Pi Day and discuss accessible ways that blind students and blind adults can practice STEM.

Feb 23, 2026
Feb 23, 2026
50 min
In this episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast, Melissa and Anil are joined by President Riccobono; Kelsy Tallant, First Vice President of the NFB of Alaska; and Barbie Elliot, Secretary of the NFB of Utah. They discuss highlights from the Washington Seminar and how their advocacy continued through snow and ice.
