Blonde and Blind

After several months living in Georgetown, exploring D.C., using public transit, and getting lost more than a few times, Marissa discusses the unexpected challenges she encountered as a blind person navigating a new city. She shares how her attitudes towards blindness and independence have changed since moving away from home. Tune in to learn more about mobility and gain several “blind hacks” for...

Jenna Giesecke joins Marissa to share how she developed and adapted to a tic disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss transitioning to college, requesting accommodations, and finding a place in the disabled community. Tune in to learn more about the intersection between disability and mental health! Jenna Giesecke is a junior at Stevens Institute of Technology majoring in Mechanical Eng...

How does gender identity impact the way blind women live, work, and travel independently? In the next episode of Legally Blonde & Blind, Marissa and special guest Mia Parra discuss the intersection of gender, sexuality, and blindness. Tune in to learn how their combined identities influence how they receive help, view their appearance, approach dating, travel alone, and pursue friendships. Mia...

In the tenth episode of Legally Blonde & Blind, Marissa discusses how inspiration porn and other narratives surrounding disability made it challenging for her to share her story. She’ll then share some writing, editing, and brainstorming tips she’s gathered along the way. Connect with Blonde & Blind! Website  - https://www.blondeblind.com/   Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blondeblin...

Marissa interviews Alanna Cronk, the founder of 1AC-CESSIBILITY, They discuss how the hyper-competitive culture and inflexible, “one size fits all” structure of speech and debate harms participants, especially those who are members of marginalized communities. Learn how speech and debate tournaments can create a more welcoming environment that encourages students to prioritize their mental and phy...

What is albinism and what unique challenges does it present? In the eighth episode of Legally Blonde & Blind, Marissa explains how the physical appearance of people with albinism can lead to ostracization, discrimination, and low self-esteem. Tune in to learn more about how she learned to embrace her white hair, pale skin, and wiggly eyes! Connect with Blonde & Blind! Website  - https://ww...

How do parents of a visually-impaired child process a new diagnosis and encourage their child to develop a positive attitude towards blindness? How does one navigate the alphabet soup of IEP plans and other accommodations? In Legally Blonde & Blind’s Mother’s Day Special, Marissa’s mom shares her unique experiences and perspectives as a parent of a child with albinism. Connect with Blonde &amp...

How does one define independence and set reasonable goals for daily living? In this episode of Legally Blonde & Blind, Marissa discusses developing a healthy mindset towards independence and asking for help. She also shares toxic ways she used to view independence and offers advice for sighted people when assisting a blind person. Connect with Blonde & Blind! Website  - https://www.blondeb...

In the fifth episode of Legally Blonde & Blind, Marissa shares her favorite things about being legally blind, such as being able to make friends in the blind community, scroll through her phone with her nose, and much more! She also discusses how her blindness helped her develop communication, social, and organizational skills. Connect with Blonde & Blind! Website  - https://www.blondeblin...

Samantha Hurley, a high school senior who has made several YouTube videos about her experiences with albinism, joins Marissa to discuss bullying, activism, and raising awareness for albinism on social media. Samantha is a rising sophomore at the University of Georgia studying Journalism with a minor in Spanish. She is also receiving certificates in News Media and Public Affairs Communication. Her...

From web accessibility to Zoom fatigue, blind students face a unique set of challenges while learning virtually. Marissa discusses the roadblocks she has encountered and offers practical advice based on her experiences as an online college student. Connect with Blonde & Blind! Website  - https://www.blondeblind.com/   Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blondeblindgirl/   Facebook - https://...

Marissa interviews Kaleigh Brendle, a high school senior in New Jersey who learned in March that the College Board would not provide paper, Braille copies of her AP exams. They discuss the legal action Kaleigh took and share self-advocacy tips. Kaleigh Brendle is a Justice & Peace studies major at Villanova University. She directs the Sing for Serenity Choir, an international online choir for...

In the first episode of Legally Blonde & Blind, Marissa discusses how humor helped her develop confidence and feel more comfortable talking about her visual impairment. Connect with Blonde & Blind! Website  - https://www.blondeblind.com/   Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blondeblindgirl/   Facebook - https://m.facebook.com/legallybb/?locale=sq_AL   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com...