Episode Notes

Hey everyone…

Before we dive into a great conversation this afternoon with Rod I wanted to share a memory that goes along with the theme: a genie for Christmas.

When I was much much much much much younger, our elementary school used to put on a Christmas extravaganza and each grade have their own play. For a while, one of my younger cousins was staying with our family while his mom was out of the country for work. It was during the Christmas season and she would be home the day before Christmas Eve, which that year was the last day of school for us and the day of the Christmas extravaganza.

The kindergarten class which my younger cousin was in always performed.a teacher written play based on the 12 days of Christmas and my little cousin was chosen for the exclusive part of: five golden rings!

So the big surprise was for my aunt to slip in the back of the auditorium during the extravaganza And surprise my cousin!

Well… The surprise worked!

I don’t remember if it was eight… Nine… 10… But during the countdown when there was that wonderfully dramatic pause, my cousin would ring out in his clear beautiful voice: five golden rings.

However, during that eight, nine, 10 or what number it was he looked up and saw his mom sneaking into the back of the auditorium and instead of calling out five golden rings, he said in the sweetest, most vulnerable most affectionate voice:

Hi mommy

And the whole audience corrupted in cheers and well meaning laughter.

To this day, I can still very clearly remember the look on his face and the sound in his voice when he realized his mom was there to see him perform.

I have a lot of favorite Christmas memories, but this one is definitely and the top five.

But I digress as I’m known to do… Hopefully Many of you will listen to this great conversation with Rod later on today This Sunday on Sunday Edition with Anthony Corona 1 PM Eastern on 20/20 The BEACON — or later wherever you get your podcasts. Get ready for a jam-packed episode featuring the one and only Rod Clemmons — Grammy-nominated, totally blind independent R&B artist, songwriter, music producer, keyboardist, conductor, and now, a rising force in film and television. Rod joins Anthony to talk about his upcoming R&B album, his groundbreaking media projects, and the deeply personal holiday movie that’s capturing hearts: “A Jeannie for Christmas.” Inspired by beloved music teacher Jeannie Boyce and the legendary student Christmas productions at the Arkansas School for the Blind, this film is a heartwarming, authentic celebration of community, tradition, and talent. What makes it even more special? It features actual blind and low vision elementary and high school students—bringing real representation to the screen, employing blind talent both in front of and behind the camera. A Jeannie for Christmas is proudly endorsed by the American Council of the Blind and the American Foundation for the Blind and is shaping up to be a landmark in inclusive holiday storytelling. Rod will also share updates on his three original television series in development, including The Doodie Doos, a cartoon series created with fellow Grammy-nominated artist Dan Kenneth, and Best Friends, a heartfelt slice-of-life half-hour show. Want to hear more of Rod’s work or stay in the loop? Check out his full catalog at rodclemmons.hearnow.com and follow him on Facebook at facebook.com/rodclemmons to explore his wide-ranging discography, from jazz and R&B to Gospel and award-winning children’s music. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation — Sunday at 1 PM Eastern on 20/20 The BEACON. Can’t tune in live? No problem! Search for Sunday Edition with Anthony Corona wherever you get your podcasts, or ask your A-Lady to “Play 20/20 The BEACON.” Stay connected and be part of the Sunday Edition family! • Like our Facebook Page: Above the Fold
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the address to subscribe is: [email protected]

Episode Notes

Join host Anthony Corona as he welcomes Justin, a pre-law student at Florida State University, living with a severe case of cerebral palsy and vision loss. This incredibly dynamic and intelligent young man is not just living the voice of 504C and the ADA—he is embodying it. Justin is a born advocator with a strong voice—sometimes hard to decipher, but impossible to ignore. He’s been advocating for himself since before kindergarten, and yes—he is mad. The very accommodations Justin depends on to not only survive but thrive in academia are being threatened. Services are being rolled back, lapsed, and lost—and Justin has something to say about it.

Anthony and Justin are also joined by Gabriel Lopez Kafati, a professional in the access and accommodations field of academia and Justin’s former academic advisor. Gabriel brings an expert lens to help us understand not only the accommodations process but also the immense importance of 504C and the ADA—not just to Justin, but to every single one of us. His insights help frame Justin’s journey within the broader fight for equality and access in education and beyond.

With vulnerability and strength, Justin speaks openly about his disabilities, his journey, and his life—offering powerful insight into what it means to live in America today as a disabled person. Through his story, his humor, and his call to action, you’ll be inspired to listen, learn, and stand up.

To maximize Justin’s participation, this episode was pre-recorded with breaks to support his ability to speak at length. At times, it may be difficult to decipher Justin’s words, so we’re offering a full transcript to follow along here:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3xy0a1z35kkzqs863icjw/One-voice-of-50C-Justin-s-journey-transcript.docx?rlkey=tlklmss0tiy2vsto050dasm4k&e=1&st=ft8xo1je&dl=0

We promise—it’s well worth the effort. Justin’s story will leave you inspired and ready to take action. Please share it far and wide. Behind every accommodation are powerful, determined human beings like Justin—fighting to live the American dream promised by our Constitution, the Amendments, the ADA, and 504C.

And if this conversation moves you—if it stirs something inside you—don’t keep it to yourself. Share this episode far and wide. Send it to friends, family, allies, and post it across your socials. Let it be heard in classrooms, boardrooms, advocacy spaces, and anywhere impactful stories can resonate. Justin’s story is our story. His courage, his truth, and his call for justice deserve the world’s attention—because the world should hear what Justin has to say.

Subscribe to the Sunday Edition email list by sending a blank message to: [email protected]

Find us on Facebook at “Above the Fold: The Sunday Edition News Group”, and subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform by searching for: Sunday Edition with Anthony Corona.

Again, catch this compelling conversation Sunday at 1 PM Eastern on 2-thousand-20-the beacon and Get Me Radio.

Episode Notes

In today’s very special edition of Sunday Edition, we bring you two exciting new segments: Part One: Hinske’s Crew – A Call to Action We proudly launch Hinske’s Crew, a new grassroots employment advocacy initiative focused on breaking down barriers and building coalitions around the employment of blind and low vision individuals. This conversation is just the beginning of a nationwide effort to educate, advocate, and effect real change in how blind and low vision talent is recognized, supported, and hired. Call to Action: We want to hear from you! • Are you a professional in HR or management who can share insight or help build bridges? • Are you a blind or low vision individual with a success story—or a story of struggle—you’re willing to share? • Do you want to advocate for inclusive hiring and showcase the valuable skills and perspectives our community brings to the workplace? If so, please contact us at: [email protected] And whether you’re in the community or an ally—share this episode far and wide. Help raise awareness and shine a spotlight on the potential and power of blind and low vision professionals. Let’s build a coalition rooted in education, empowerment, and equity. Part Two: Ask Emily & Garth Debuts! We lighten things up with the premiere of our brand-new advice segment featuring the voices of Emily and Garth from Barbara Hinske’s Guiding Emily series. Author Barbara Hinske joins us live to answer two charming listener-submitted questions in character as Emily and her cheese-loving guide dog, Garth. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod along—and you might even relate more than you’d expect! Support Barbara Hinske: • Leave a positive review for the Guiding Emily series on Amazon or Goodreads • Help advocate for a second Hallmark Guiding Emily movie by emailing: [email protected] Sneak Peek – Next Week on Sunday Edition: One Voice of 504: Justin’s Journey Next Sunday, we welcome Justin, a powerful young advocate with a story that speaks to both resilience and resistance. He’ll share his lived experience navigating access, 504 protections, and his concerns about the potential rollback of disability rights in today’s shifting political landscape. Don’t miss this important conversation. Justin has a lot to teach us all. Stay Connected with Sunday Edition • Join our Facebook community: Sunday Edition: Above the Fold • Subscribe to our mailing list for exclusive updates, news, and upcoming features: [email protected] For comments, insights, or to get involved with Hinske’s Crew, email: [email protected]

Big Announcements – Sunday Edition is Growing! As we celebrate 5 incredible years of deep conversations, powerful advocacy, and uplifting stories, Sunday Edition is thrilled to announce some major updates to our platform and programming!

We’re going independent! Starting today, Sunday Edition will now air every Sunday at 1 PM Eastern on our new home: 2020 The Beacon Replays will continue throughout the week on ACB Media, so you won’t miss a thing. This move marks a new chapter in our evolution, as we expand our offerings and deepen our connection with the blind and low vision community.

We are incredibly proud of our time with the ACB Media Network and Community, and we thank them for being our home for the past five years.

What’s New and What’s Coming: Over the years, Sunday Edition has become more than just a talk show. We’ve grown into a multi-dimensional outlet reflecting all facets of the BVI experience: • Advocacy Partnerships: From supporting employment through grassroots efforts like Hinske’s Crew, to connecting with HR professionals, corporations, and subject matter experts across industries. • Creative Showcases: Featuring programs like Behind the Music and our AI Music Showcase, spotlighting the innovation and creativity in our community. • Technology Expansion: Stay tuned for the launch of Sunday Edition Tech Talk, a new 15-minute segment highlighting cutting-edge tech and the people who create and use it. • Interactive Features: We’re introducing post-show Clubhouse rooms, and opportunities for direct audience interaction with guests and panelists. • Community Columns: Our new twice-monthly advice column, Dear Emily & Garth, offers heartfelt guidance and connection from familiar voices in our community. And this is just the beginning.

Today’s Show: We marked this milestone with a look into the world of Blind hockey and ice-skating with the inspiring Josh Schneider, followed by a heartwarming and fun chat with Desiree and Jonathan, exploring the journey of finding, accepting, and nurturing love.

Stay Connected – Join the New Sunday Edition News Email List! Want to keep up with everything Sunday Edition has to offer? Join our brand-new email list to: • Get weekly show announcements • Interact directly with our guests • Read special features like Dear Emily & Garth • Be the first to hear about new segments, surprise content, and more Subscribe now: Send a blank email to:

[email protected]

Thank You for 5 Wonderful Years Here’s to the next chapter of Sunday Edition—more conversations, more connection, more community. We’re growing, and we’re taking the BVI world by storm. Don’t miss a moment.

Yours, Anthony Corona He/Him Host and Producer of Sunday edition [email protected]

Sunday Edition: Five-Year Anniversary Celebration

This week’s episode is a very special milestone—we are celebrating five years of Sunday Edition!  Yesterday’s live celebration was nothing short of incredible. Anthony and the Sunday Edition crew want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who participated, shared their memories, and reflected on what the show has meant over the years. Your words, your stories, and your heartfelt moments had us all choked up multiple times.  We reminisced, we laughed, we honored some of our most impactful episodes, and we celebrated the advocacy, the community, and the voices that have shaped Sunday Edition.  What’s Inside This Special Episode?  🎙️ Reflections on five years of conversations, advocacy, and community building 🎙️ Highlights from some of our most powerful and memorable shows 🎙️ Guest appearances from past panelists, advocates, and friends of the show 🎙️ The moments that made us laugh, cry, and take action  And of course… those giveaways!  But hold onto your hats, folks—there are still more giveaways to be had! Want to snag one? Listen to the podcast for all the details. I’m expecting a flood of emails from those of you who want to claim some of the untapped giveaways we still have left.  Looking Ahead  This five-year journey has been absolutely amazing, and I can’t wait for many more years of Sunday Edition! While we take a short break next week for the American Council of the Blind’s Legislative Sessions, we’ll be back on the 23rd with one of our famous couple’s shows!  And guess what? If you listen to this episode, you’ll hear so many folks asking for more couples, more fun, and more lighthearted moments—so we’re listening!  Enjoy the celebration, hit me up for those giveaways, and get ready for another incredible year of Sunday Edition!  How to Listen:  🎧 Ask your smart device: “Play ACB’s Sunday Edition with Anthony Corona” for the latest episode. 🎧 Search for ACB’s Sunday Edition with Anthony Corona wherever you listen to your podcasts. 🎧 Want to join the show live next time? Send an email to [email protected] for call-in information.  Thank you all for five years of memories, advocacy, and community! See you back on the 23rd! Yours,

This week on Sunday Edition, we welcomed back Barbara Hinske, the acclaimed author of the Guiding Emily series, The Rosemont series, and many other beloved novels. Barbara joined us to share some exciting news about the upcoming Book 6 and Book 7 in the Guiding Emily series, offering insights into her writing process and how she balances engaging storytelling with meaningful advocacy for the blind and low vision community.  In the second half of the show, we focused on Barbara’s commitment to reducing unemployment in the blind and low vision community. Together, we strategized ways to make an impact, heard personal experiences from community members, and helped shape this year’s planned outreach and advocacy efforts.  Barbara will be back in mid-April when we unveil Hinske’s Crew—a dedicated group of advocates who will work to educate and engage human resource professionals, companies, and small businesses, as well as identify opportunities to present panel discussions at conferences and conventions.  Help Bring a Second Guiding Emily Movie to Hallmark!  We also touched on the growing community call for a second Guiding Emily Hallmark movie. The original Guiding Emily was Hallmark’s highest-grossing movie to date, and fans are eager to see Emily and Garth’s story continue. If you’d love to see another Guiding Emily movie, you can help by writing to Hallmark and sharing your enthusiasm: 📧 Email: [email protected] Join Us on March 9 for Our 5th Anniversary Celebration!  In addition, mark your calendars for next Sunday, March 9, as Sunday Edition celebrates five incredible years! Barbara Hinske will return alongside special guests from the past five years to help us mark this milestone. Plus, we’ll have some exciting giveaways from companies you know and love!  🔹 Look for joining details in your Daily/Weekend Schedule. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

It’s another exciting week on Sunday Edition, and we’re bringing you an episode packed with insights, transitions, and a few surprises! This week, we’re pulling back the curtain on some major staff changes at ACB and getting to know the faces (and voices) shaping the organization’s future.  Meet Our Guests:  ⭐ Scott Thornhill – The Executive Director of ACB himself! How does he juggle staffing, leadership, and strategy? What’s his philosophy on managing a dynamic team? Scott is giving us the inside scoop on how he structures his staff and leads ACB into its next chapter.  ⭐ Hannah Park – Wearing not one, but two hats! We’ll let Hannah tell us what that really means and how she’s balancing multiple roles. She’s got stories, insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at what’s keeping her busy.  ⭐ Kolby Garrison – Making a lateral move within ACB, Kolby joins us to reflect on her past roles, share what excites her about her new position, and walk us through her journey within the organization. What has she learned? What’s ahead? Kolby is giving us a candid look at her ACB experience.  Plus…  ✅ The latest ACB updates and what these staffing shifts mean for the community. ✅ YOUR questions, answered live—because Sunday Edition is where the real conversations happen! ✅ A celebration of five years of being ACB’s go-to news magazine show.  How to Tune In: 📅 Live on Sunday at 1 PM ET 📻 Just ask your smart device to “Play ACB Media” and select Stream 1 🎙 Or catch Sunday Edition with Anthony wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to Join the Conversation? 📩 Send questions/comments to [email protected]💻

You’re Invited: Sunday Edition Celebrates Love in All Its Forms!  February is often painted in shades of romance, but love is so much more than roses and heart-shaped chocolates. This Sunday, Sunday Edition is embracing all love—the love we have for ourselves, the bonds we build in friendships and family (biological or chosen), and the connections that lift us up and remind us that we are valued, seen, and worthy.  Join Anthony Corona, along with Pam Shaw and members of the ACB Mental Health Awareness Committee, as we dive into what healthy love truly feels like, how we nurture self-love, and why vulnerability is one of love’s greatest strengths.  And in the spirit of connection, we’re introducing the Sunday Edition Hug Challenge! Studies show that a 30-second hug releases endorphins and can change the chemistry of our brains and bodies. But are we brave enough to ask for a hug when we need one? Are we bold enough to offer one to someone who might not even realize they do?  Let’s celebrate love in all its forms and embrace the power of human connection. Whether you’re single, partnered, exploring, or simply honoring your own heart, this conversation is for you.  Tune in this Sunday for an episode filled with warmth, reflection, and, of course, lots of love.    You can listen to Sunday Edition by asking your devices to play: ACB media and choose stream one.  You can find Sunday Edition with Anthony wherever you listen to your podcast.  To join the conversation live please send an email to: [email protected].

SundayEdition #LoveIsExpansive #HugChallenge #AllLove C

Back

We dive into the world of one of ACB’s fiercest, brightest, and most dynamic Next Generation leaders!  MOe Carpenter is a force to be reckoned with. Since 2020, she’s been lighting up the blind community with her passion, drive, and relentless advocacy. We’ll also hear from the movers and shakers of CALM (Chapter at Large Members of the Florida Council of the Blind). They’ve been making waves with impressive fundraising, reinventing what membership looks like, and more. Sunday Edition has been amplifying your voices for five years, and we want to hear from you! Email Sunday Edition

In response to the overwhelming number of requests following Tammy Robbins’ heartfelt and courageous share on ACB Family’s monthly call, we are honored to welcome her to Sunday Edition for a deeper conversation. Tammy’s story of navigating homelessness with her guide dog and 12-year-old son has resonated with many, and we are excited to explore her journey further, including her involvement with various ACB affiliates.  This week, Anthony will also reflect on his own experiences with homelessness and propose ideas for how ACB can leverage its incredible community to provide support during times of crisis. From hosting supportive calls to envisioning an “ACB Family Tree” that could mobilize resources, donations, and assistance in moments of trauma and disaster, we’ll discuss how we can be there for one another when it matters most.  While a project of this scope would require Board approval, Sunday Edition has been at the forefront of inspiring impactful initiatives, including the Mental Health and Wellness Committee and the Community Support Committee. With wildfires devastating Los Angeles and a growing call to action within our membership, this is the perfect time to explore how ACB can expand its role as a family of support and action.  More About Tammy Robbins: Tammy will share an in-depth look at her personal experiences, her challenges, and how she overcame adversity. She will also provide insight into her current roles within various ACB affiliates and how her work continues to make a difference.  We hope you’ll join us for this important conversation!  When & Where:  • Live Broadcast: Sunday at 1 PM ET on ACB Media Stream 1 (ask your device to play ACB Media, Stream 1).  • Podcast: Available on your favorite podcast platforms—just search for ACB’s  Sunday Edition with Anthony.  •Send Us Your Questions or Comments: Email us at [email protected].