Shows
Getting WisdomMemory and Faith with Dr. Hoby WedlerDr. Hoby Wedler, a PhD chemist and entrepreneur, joins us to explore how creativity, technology, and mentorship can reshape limitations into strengths. We discuss accessible innovation, the impact of AI on communication and learning, and the role of sensory design in business. From his work in chemistry and inclusive branding to his reflections on faith and purpose, Dr. Wedler offers insight into how adversity can fuel vision. Part two of a three-part guest series.2025-04-301h 01
What's the Problem?Hoby WedlerDr. Hoby Wedler is a chemist, entrepreneur, and sensory expert renowned for his work in inclusive design, sensory literacy, and the intersection of science and sensory perception. Born blind, he earned a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of California, Davis, and has dedicated his career to enhancing how people experience the world through their non-visual senses. Wedler is best known for his work in the wine and food industries, where he develops unique sensory experiences that encourage people to appreciate taste, aroma, and texture in innovative ways. He has collaborated with top wineries, brands, and businesses...2025-04-2457 minGetting WisdomAcademia, Technology & Mentorship with Dr. Hoby WedlerDr. Hobie Wedler—chemist, entrepreneur, and accessibility advocate—kicks off a three-part series on turning life’s constraints into innovation. Join us as we dig into the mindsets that fuel wisdom.2025-04-2337 min
Sip with NikkiA New Wine Movement Has Started... Are you IN?Wine is more than just a beverage; it’s a catalyst for connection, a way to bring people together and share experiences. This week, I'm excited to invite you to join in on "Share and Pair Sundays", a campaign that encourages you to invite friends over to enjoy good food and wine together. (sounds simple, cause it is).Similar to the Come Over October initiative this past fall, it also emphasizes that it’s the moments and connections around food and wine that can bring us the most joy and fulfillment.In this episode, I'm expl...2025-03-2431 min
Everything You Know About Disability Is WrongExploring the World Through Sensory Experiences with Dr. Hoby WedlerExperiencing the world isn’t just about sight, it's about tasting, touching, hearing, and smelling, too. Using all our senses helps us connect more deeply to the world around us.Dr. Hoby Wedler is a chemist, entrepreneur, and advocate for inclusivity. He holds a Ph.D. in physical organic chemistry from UC Davis and founded the Wedland Group to explore how our senses shape emotions and connections.He creates unique food and drink experiences that help people appreciate the little things in life. He also works to break stereotypes about disability, inspiring others to re...2025-03-1858 min
Navigating DisabilityDr. Hoby Wedler has carved out a unique niche by focusing on how sensory experiences shape human emotions and reactionsDr. Hoby Wedler is a celebrated chemist and entrepreneur, noted for his innovative work at the nexus of flavor science, organic chemistry, and sensory perception. Holding a Ph.D. in physical organic chemistry from the University of California, Davis, Dr. Wedler has carved out a unique niche by focusing on how sensory experiences shape human emotions and reactions. His innovative organic chemistry and sensory research has led to pioneering developments in the way we understand and interact with our environment. Dr. Wedler’s work focuses on product development in the food and beverage industry as well as designing and pe...2025-03-1545 min
Ingenious ThinkersThe Power of Sensory Design | Ingenious ThinkersJoining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Hoby Wedler, Blind scientist, entrepreneur, CEO, and educator of the blind and low vision community.
2025-02-0526 min
Aaron’s OpinionOur chemical universe with Dr. Hoby WedlerDr. Hoby Wedler is an American scientist and entrepreneur. Blind since birth, he is excited by everything life has to offer and has turned blindness, something some may consider a disadvantage, into a huge advantage through his chemistry, sensory, and advocacy work. Hoby earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from UC Davis in 2016. Since then, he has become an entrepreneur currently with three companies. Hoby's work focuses on sensory innovation, experiences in the food and beverage industry, product development, design, and more. Hoby also loves advocating for other scientists and entrepreneurs...2025-02-011h 53Sip with NikkiDemystifying Wine Myths with The Wine Coach, Laurie ForsterPour yourself a glass and listen in as Laurie Forster (aka The Wine Coach) and host Nikki Lamberti dive into the demystification (is that a word???) of wine. It's an engaging discussion filled with tips, personal anecdotes, and a shared passion for making wine enjoyment accessible, fun and FUNNY for everyone.They explore why many people feel intimidated by wine, discussing common misconceptions, including: The myths surrounding sulfites in wineThe relationship between wine color and qualityLaurie shares her journey from a wine novice to a wine coach, emphasizing that wine should be fun and approachable. The...2025-01-2741 minSip with NikkiGoing No/Lo? Our Uncensored Tasting of Non and Low Alcohol WinesThe rise of NOLO wines (non-alcoholic or low-alcohol alternatives), is attracting attention in the beverage industry. Listen in as Michael and I and our good friends and fellow wine industry professionals, Hoby and Justin, taste through sparkling, white, rosé and red non-alcoholic wines and share our unfiltered responses with each other! Learn about the different methods used to create non-alcoholic wines, preserving flavor during alcohol removalHow are de-alcoholized wines different from the sparkling grape juice we were all served as kids during the holidays?Can Nolo wines fully replace traditional wines, or are they just enjoyable alternatives?2025-01-1343 minSip with NikkiWhy This, Why Now? "Come Over October" ExplainedIn a Sip with Nikki first, I have 2 ENCORE guests with me: Karen MacNeil (Season 1 Ep 24) and Dr Hoby Wedler (Season 1 Ep 13). The three of us came together to talk about an exciting new initiative that Karen started and that Hoby and I are big supporters of. We gathered in Karen’s office St. Helena and shared a very special bottle of wine from an epic year. This lively and heartfelt conversation touched on so many topics like:What is “Come Over October” and why you need to be a part of it!Karen’s CAREER HIGHLIGHT moment and why...2024-10-0759 min
The See-Through PodcastDr. Hoby Wedler (Ph.D. Chemist, Sensory Expert, and Entrepreneur)Episode 114 | Dr. Hoby Wedler (Ph.D. Chemist, Sensory Expert and Entrepreneur) joins the podcast! In this episode, Hoby discusses his successes in academia and business, his experiences with forming friendships, business partnerships, and finding love as a blind man, and how he uniquely uses his senses to "see" the world. SEE-THROUGH is hosted by Lance Johnson. Based in New York City, Lance is a video editor living with a rare and incurable eye condition called retinitis pigmentosa (or RP for short). In most cases, RP causes legal-blindness by the age of 40. Now 34, Lance uses SEE-THROUGH as a p...2024-08-2055 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #36: How AI is Changing Jobs and Creating Opportunities for People Who Are Blind with NSITE’s Doug GoistDr. Hoby Wedler welcomes returning guest Doug Goist to the podcast this week. Doug is a program manager for workforce development at NSITE where he helps people who are blind and visually impaired find employment by providing training opportunities. Blindness doesn’t get adequate coverage in most diversity training, so NSITE created a program called “Blindness, Equity, Inclusion,” where Doug helps companies in the commercial sector audit themselves and discover how they can support people with blindness and vision impairments in the workplace. Doug also has a deep passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and technology. After l...2024-07-2445 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #35: Communications, Impacting Public Policy, and Creating Jobs with Austin Lighthouse’s Brandye LacyIn this week’s episode, Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Brandye Lacy, the marketing coordinator at Travis Association for the Blind, also known as Austin Lighthouse. With a passion for writing and advocacy, she excels at crafting and telling compelling stories while championing causes that break down barriers to equality and equity. Brandye began losing her vision when she was in seventh grade and initially tried to hide it. Despite this, her passion for communications never wavered. By combining her love for this field with her advocacy for the empowerment of people who are blind or visually impaired, Br...2024-07-1027 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #34: Blind for a Purpose with Envision Dallas’ Blake LindsayDo you ever wonder if there is a purpose for blindness? How can it be seen as a gift? This week, Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Blake Lindsay, an author, public speaker, voice artist, and the director of communications and outreach for Envision Dallas. They explore these questions as well as discuss Blake’s fascinating story. While enjoying a 22-year career in radio broadcasting, Blake also spent 7 years at Nations Bank (now Bank of America) and worked with Dallas Area Rapid Transit and Zig Ziglar Corporation before moving to Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind, which became Envision Dallas....2024-07-0349 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #33: Advocacy, Public Policy, and the 1% Ask with Bosma Enterprises’ Lise PaceDr. Hoby Wedler welcomes a familiar voice back to the podcast this week as he sits down with the Executive Vice President at Bosma Enterprises, Lise Pace, live from the 2024 NIB Public Policy Forum in Washington, D.C. Lise shares her remarkable journey from a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa in her early 20s to the thriving and fulfilling career she enjoys today. Despite the initial shock of the diagnosis, Lise’s path led her to Bosma Enterprises where she found the opportunities and resources to reclaim her life and career, finding both purpose and success every step of the wa...2024-06-2628 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #32: Diversity, Mentorship, and Innovation in Leadership with NIB President and CEO Soraya CorreaDr. Hoby Wedler welcomes a very special guest to the podcast this week: the one and only Soraya Correa, the new president and CEO of National Industries for the Blind. After starting her career as a clerk typist, Soraya rose through the ranks of the federal government to join the Senior Executive Service. She held key leadership roles at the General Services Administration (GSA), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). After retiring from federal service, she worked for the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) before discovering NIB. As you’ll hear, So...2024-06-1957 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #31: Strategic Advocacy: Influencing Public Policy on Capitol Hill with Dan KellyThis week, Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Dan Kelly, the Vice President of Public Policy for the National Association for the Employment of People Who Are Blind (NAEPB) and President and CEO of IFB Solutions. Dan is a dedicated advocate for the blind and visually impaired community, whose unwavering dedication shines through every aspect of his work. He discusses his experience with retinitis pigmentosa, a condition that has affected three generations of his family, and how it has shaped his path. As you’ll hear, Dan’s strategic leadership and passionate advocacy are focused this...2024-06-1228 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #30: A Lasting Legacy of Employment Opportunities for the Blind and Visually Impaired with Kevin LynchIn this episode, Dr. Hoby Wedler has the distinct pleasure of welcoming to the podcast Kevin Lynch, president and CEO emeritus of National Industries for the Blind (NIB). He retired April 30, 2023, from a 44-year career working and serving for the blind and visually impaired community in various capacities. Kevin, a visionary leader, shares his inspiring journey from working with the Association for the Blind in Rochester, New York, to leading NIB in its mission to create meaningful employment opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired. They discuss the challenges an...2024-06-0543 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #29: From Unemployed to Employee of the Year with Envision’s MaryBeth ClareThe human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity is strong, especially in today’s guest, MaryBeth Clare. She sits down with Dr. Hoby Wedler to discuss the setbacks she faced after losing her vision, and how those were replaced by the determination and desire to grow that have kept her going in her role as lead cashier and stocker for the military Base Supply Center at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. She describes how her commitment led her to flourish in her job, winning Employee of the Year at Envision Xpress and the Peter J. Salmon Award from...2024-05-2939 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #28: From HR to Advocacy: Rob Buettner’s Impact at Beyond VisionIn this episode, Dr. Hoby Wedler sits down with Rob Buettner, Vice President of Relationships & Business Services at Beyond Vision, to talk about leadership, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and where they merge. After being diagnosed with Stargardt’s Macular Dystrophy as a young adult, Rob faced uncertainty and darkness. It wasn’t until he found a community of other people with the same disease that reminded Rob he could do anything he set his mind to, with or without his vision. From starting a business distributing low-vision technology products to advocating for policy change, Rob’s journey exempli...2024-05-2236 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #27: How BVI Advocates Can Make a Bigger Impact with NIB’s VP of Public Policy, Rick WebsterToday, National Industries for the Blind (NIB)’s Spring Conference and Public Policy Forum wraps up with the annual Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, so it's very fitting that this week Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by NIB’s Vice President of Public Policy, Rick Webster. Rick brings a unique perspective to the podcast as a sighted person passionately committed to creating employment opportunities for BVI individuals. Rick’s affinity for government and policy change began during his time at Hope College where he studied political science. Even then, Rick’s sights were set on Washingto...2024-05-1541 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #26: How Changing Public Policy Will Create More BVI Jobs with Luke Messer and Jeff MittmanThis week, Dr. Hoby Wedler dives deep into the world of policy change and advocacy with two remarkable individuals, former Congressman, Luke Messer and Jeff Mittman, CEO of Bosma Enterprises. Luke, with his extensive background in politics and public service, and Jeff, a true advocate for the blind and visually impaired through his leadership at Bosma, bring together a wealth of insight and passion to the discussion. At the heart of this episode lies the upcoming Public Policy Forum at the Capitol, where BVI advocates will champion the “1% Ask” to increase Department of Defense spending on Ab...2024-05-0841 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #25: BVI Advocacy, Public Policy, and Speaking Up on Capitol Hill with Vivian FridasAre you ready to stand up and make a real impact on the world for BVI folks? In this motivating and inspiring episode of Heard & Empowered, Dr. Hoby Wedler welcomes Vivian Fridas to the podcast to share how, regardless of ability, we can all thrive and contribute meaningfully to the world. Vivian was born with cone-rod dystrophy, and the discrimination she faced sparked her commitment to championing disability inclusion. With a background in political science and international relations, she navigated through academia and various organizations, including the Women’s Refugee Commission and the United States International Council on Disability, to...2024-05-0138 min
Stories of Vision LossHoby - Heard and EmpoweredHoby Wedler shares his experience building businesses as a successful entrepreneur in the Food & Beverage industry after earning his PhD in Chemistry. He was born blind with microphthalmia, and developed his palate and love for cooking through growing up in a family who supported him through high expectations. His curiosity and thirst for knowledge will hopefully pair well with your day and leave you feeling inspired.Apple Podcast: Heard and EmpoweredStay connected and share your story: storiesofvisionloss@gmail.comCheck out a list of our guests: www.storiesofvisionloss.com/guestsJoin Su...2024-04-2645 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #24: Redefining Workforce Inclusion and Employment Equality with Shannon SatterfieldAs we gear up for National Industries for the Blind Public Policy Forum 2024, Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Shannon Satterfield, Director of Professional Services at IFB Solutions, to share his extraordinary journey of struggle and advocacy. Shannon was born with achromatopsia and before joining IFB Solutions, he encountered numerous challenges despite his academic achievements. Rejections were frequent, with many people casting doubts over his intelligence and capabilities just because he was blind. However, his unyielding determination, coupled with the support of IFB Solutions, propelled him toward his current role. Now, Shannon is dedicated to empowering BVI individuals nationwide...2024-04-2435 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #23: Leading Change for the Blind and Visually Impaired with Lee Nasehi, CEO of VisionServe AllianceYou’re in for an inspiring episode this week as Lee Nasehi, the President and CEO of VisionServe Alliance, joins Dr. Hoby Wedler! The impact of Lee’s long-standing dedication to the blind and visually impaired community cannot be overstated, and it has brought significant changes. Today, Lee shares her journey of becoming a seasoned advocate and expert in assisting people who are blind to find employment, and some of the groundbreaking work in which she has participated. Tune in to discover the impressive and inspiring work Lee undertook at Lighthouse Central Florida, overcoming challenges to ma...2024-04-1736 min
Destiny Is DebatableAn Eye-Opening Conversation with Disability Life Coach, Charlie KramerJoin us for an inspiring chat with Charlie Kramer, a life coach who's truly mastered the art of living confidently with his disability. We'll dive into his journey with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), an inherited retinal condition that shapes his unique perspective on life and teaches us valuable lessons about resilience and acceptance.
Charlie shares his advocacy for mobility tools like the blind cane and opens up about the profound impact his disability has had on his identity. He sheds light on the importance of individuality, respect, and understanding when interacting with people with disabilities. Plus, h...2024-04-1647 min
On the Table with AshleyDr. Hoby Wedler – Blind Entrepreneur. Smell. Feel. Listen: Sensory Design and Learning How to Become Literate in Our Non-Visual Senses.Send us a textOn the table today we have a conversation at the intersection of organic chemistry, design excellence, food and the curious joys and complexities of moving through the world as a non-sighted person. Dr. Hoby Wedler received his PhD in Organic Chemistry in 2016 from UC Davis and has since started many businesses, including a gourmet seasonings company called Hoby’s Essentials and Sensepoint, a creative marketing firm that specializes in innovative design thinking and guides clients towards effective solutions that have a positive impact on the world. He joins Ashley to talk about his li...2024-04-101h 51
Heard & EmpoweredEp #22: The Importance of Self-Belief with NSITE Graduate Yasmin CampbellIf you're looking for inspiration on your job search, this week's conversation is sure to deliver. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Yasmin Campbell, a graduate of the NSITE program and a champion for self-belief, self-advocacy, and furthering opportunities for the BVI community. Yasmin's plans took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, prompting a reevaluation of her career aspirations and igniting a transformative journey of skill development and personal growth. In this conversation, Yasmin discusses her diverse work experience, how she navigated new working methods, and how she finally landed her d...2024-04-1035 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #21: You CAN Find a Career You Love with Lighthouse for the Blind Seattle's LaKenia GarnesAre you encountering challenge after challenge in your job search? If so, you need to listen in. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined this week by LaKenia Garnes, the Purchasing Assistant for the Base Supply Center at Lighthouse for the Blind Seattle. She shares how she overcame obstacles and job rejections to finally find a position that she loves and where she’s thriving. Despite holding a Bachelor’s degree and earning a Master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, LaKenia’s path to finding a long-term, meaningful career wasn’t easy. Eventually, her journey led her to...2024-04-0329 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #20: Considering a Job in Manufacturing as a BVI? Brandi Hunter Shares What You Need to KnowIn the search for your dream job, hard work and dedication truly do pay off, a truth vividly embodied by this week’s guest, Brandi Hunter. Serving as the Human Resources Staffing Coordinator at Blind Industries & Services of Maryland (BISM), Brandi shares with Dr. Hoby Wedler her inspiring journey to securing a job she is passionate about. Her path, however, was not always straightforward. She recounts the various positions she navigated before joining BISM, at first, as a sewing machine operator. It was her unwavering optimism, great work, and the exceptional opportunities at BISM that pro...2024-03-2733 min
Stories of Vision LossUp Close with Hoby & CharlotteThis episode features Hoby Wedler interviewing Charlotte about the podcast and how it came to be.Send questions to storiesofvisionloss@gmail.comThank you for listeningHoby's podcast: https://heardandempowered.orgStay connected and share your story: storiesofvisionloss@gmail.comCheck out a list of our guests: www.storiesofvisionloss.com/guestsJoin Supporter's Club - $5/monthRecord an Audio Message!2024-03-2512 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #19: Land Your Dream Job: How Hard Work Paid Off for Thomas Stivers at the Travis Association for the BlindGet ready for an inspiring story of tenacity and hard work as Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Thomas Stivers, Systems Administrator for the Travis Association for the Blind at Austin Lighthouse. Ever since high school, Thomas had big dreams of working with computers, but it wasn’t until later in his career that these dreams would become reality. Thomas enrolled in a computer science program in college, but due to the lack of accessibility, he wasn’t able to complete his degree. He applied for a summer job at Austin Lighthouse and went on to hold various positions, from...2024-03-2037 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #18: How Valley Center for the Blind is Empowering BVI Individuals to SucceedReynaldo Villarreal is the director of workforce development at Valley Center for the Blind (VCB) in Central California, one of NIB’s associated nonprofit agencies. He joins Dr. Hoby Wedler to share his story about blindness and the impactful work he does at VCB. Rey explains the impact a nonprofit like Valley Center for the Blind have on employment within the BVI community, and how he doesn’t consider his work as just a job, but rather his mission and goal. Tune in to learn more about Valley Center for the Blind’s mission of supporting BVI people and provid...2024-03-1334 minSip with NikkiSeeing Flavor with Dr. Hoby WedlerI first met Dr Hoby Wedler when he led my wine education team and I through his signature “Tasting in the Dark” experience. We were blindfolded and tasting the wines (thought) we knew very well, in a whole new light (or lack thereof). Dr. Hoby Wedler is a Chemist, Sensory Expert, Motivational Speaker and Entrepreneur who happens to be blind since birth.After your virtual time with Hoby, you’ll have a new perspective on how to take in the world around you, especially when it comes to things like Seeing Flavor and Tasting Color!You’...2024-02-2658 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #13: Teri Shirk Part 1 - Discover How NIB Agencies Help the Blind and Visually Impaired Achieve Career Goals Both In-Site and Working RemotelyJoin our host Dr. Hoby Wedler for Part 1 of an enlightening conversation with Teri Shirk, President and CEO of Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI). Teri shares insights on how NIB's associated nonprofit agencies provide fulfilling jobs, financial independence, and a transitional process from social security benefits to a well-paid job with even better benefits for those who are blind or visually impaired. Good salaries and long-term employment opportunities exist whether you want to work onsite or remotely from your home. Don't let vision loss hold you back from achieving your career goals! 2024-02-0730 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #11: Sophia McCall’s Journey: From Depression and Blindness to a Thriving Career as an HR RecruiterJoin our host, Dr. Hoby Wedler, as he sits with Sophia McCall to discover how she learned to live with blindness as an adult due to diabetic retinopathy. Sophia was able to find a path of self-confidence and independence through the support of Lighthouse Central Florida and others in the BVI community. Discover more about her journey, struggles, and accomplishments on this episode of Heard & Empowered by National Industries for the Blind. For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://heardandempowered.org/112024-01-2425 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #10: Kyle Johnson Talks About Support, Help, and Advice to Find Meaningful Jobs for People With Vision LossIn this episode of the Heard & Empowered podcast by NIB, listen to Kyle Johnson as he discusses the importance of seeking help for blind or visually impaired individuals as a first step toward finding meaningful jobs. Discover career opportunities and available jobs through National Industries for the Blind. Join Kyle and our host Dr. Hoby Wedler as they share with us how NIB-associated agencies empower people who are blind and visually impaired. Listen to Kyle's inspiring story and discover how you, too, can reach your career goals with NIB! For full tr...2024-01-1724 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #9: Inclusion in Action: Dr. Hoby Wedler on Elevating BVI Careers, Mentorship, and Shifting Corporate MindsetsThis episode is a live recording of Dr. Hoby Wedler introducing the Heard & Empowered Podcast at the National Industries for the Blind 2023 Conference as he led a panel of guests to showcase success stories, provide resources, and champion people who are blind in the workforce. He shared his personal experience of facing discrimination in the job market and how it inspired him to start his entrepreneurial journey. The panel discusses the importance of employment and how mentorship is crucial for empowering BVI individuals and helping them excel in their careers. The panel also discusses how bu...2024-01-1039 min
KGNU - How On EarthSTEM Ed: Improving access for the blind, etc.Photo credit: National Science Foundation
STEM ed accessibility (start time: 2:03): It’s challenging enough learning science, technology, engineering and math when you can clearly see the physical models or images of neurons on a screen. So, imagine the hurdles faced by students who are blind or otherwise visually impaired? In this week’s show, host Susan Moran interviews two chemists who are working on making STEM education more accessible to people with visual and other impairments, and on making learning more interactive for everyone. Dr. Hoby Wedler is an organic chemist, a sensory expert, and a product develop...2023-12-1927 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #3: From the Battleground to the Boardroom: A Career Path Like No Other with Jeff MittmanIn this week’s episode of Heard & Empowered, you’ll hear an inspirational story of overcoming adversity, and a demonstration of what’s possible. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by President and CEO of Bosma Enterprises, the largest employer of people who are visually impaired in the state of Indiana. Jeff is not only CEO and president of Bosma but also a military veteran with an incredible story. After a roadside bomb ended his military career and left him permanently blind, he began the arduous process of acclimating to his new normal and learning to deal with his blindness. 2023-11-2921 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #2: How NIB Works and How NSITE Connects the Blind to Job Opportunities with Dr. Jonathan LucusNational Industries for the Blind (NIB) is a nonprofit agency whose mission is to enhance the personal and economic independence of blind and visually impaired folks by creating, sustaining, and improving employment opportunities. NIB's talent management enterprise is NSITE. Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by the Executive Director of NSITE, Dr. Jonathan Lucus, who talks about how the program connects employers with talented, dedicated people who are blind or visually impaired, to meet their workforce needs. Tune in this week to learn more about NSITE’s mission, vision, and goals, and exactly how NSITE works. Dis...2023-11-2920 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #1: About the Host: Discover Dr. Hoby Wedler’s Story & Jumpstart Your Job SearchWe’re on a mission here on Heard & Empowered to shift perceptions, open hearts and minds, and unlock unparalleled job opportunities for the blind and visually impaired community. Whether you’re blind, visually impaired, or an ally, this podcast is your ultimate resource for building a fulfilling career and enriching life. There’s so much to learn in this space, and together, we can make the world a more empowering place. Are you ready to join the conversation? Tune in this week for an inspirational introduction to the host of Heard & Empowered, Dr. Hoby Wedler. Hoby gu...2023-11-2914 min
Heard & EmpoweredEp #0: Trailer | Find Job Inspiration & Career Opportunities on the Heard & Empowered Podcast by NIBWelcome to the Heard & Empowered Podcast, brought to you by National Industries for the Blind, where you're not just a listener, but a catalyst for change. Are you blind or visually impaired (BVI) or know someone who is? Are you considering the professional world but don't know where to start? Or are you just curious about the daily work life of someone with a visual impairment? Well, you're in the right place! This podcast is where the blind and visually impaired community finds job inspiration, career opportunities, and a path to su...2023-11-2202 min
Italian Wine PodcastThe Blind Guy's Guide To Blind Tasting | wine2wine Business Forum 2022Welcome to Episode 1497, the Blind Guy’s Guide to Blind Tasting with Hoby Wedler, moderated by Dominga CotarellaThis is the wine2wine Business Forum 2022 Series. The sessions are recorded and uploaded on Italian Wine Podcast.wine2wine Business Forum is an international wine business forum, held annually in Verona Italy since 2014. The event is a key reference point for wine producers and a diverse variety of wine professionals eager to develop and grow their wine business worldwide.About today’ session:We use all five senses to take in 100% of the info...2023-08-0329 min
XChateau Wine PodcastExpanding your Impressions and Senses w/ Hoby Wedler, Tasting in the DarkTrained in chemistry and born blind, Hoby Wedler, an entrepreneur and sensory expert, has trained his palate to pick up aromas and nuances in wine more acutely than most. Hoby describes how he does "Tasting in the Dark," which helps wineries connect with buyers and his thoughts on accessibility in the wine industry. Detailed Show Notes: Hoby's backgroundBorn blind, studied history and chemistry (Ph.D.)Francis Ford Coppola asked him to design a blindfolded wine experience, which became "Tasting in the Dark"Went into food & beverage, consulting on product development, comparative set tas...2023-05-2638 min
No Barriers2022 Year End RecapTo kick off 2023 we want to take a trip down memory lane from 2022. This episode showcases some of our favorite highlights from guests we spoke to in 2022. Enjoy!
Listen to the full episodes referenced in this episode.
EPISODE 136: 500 MPH WITH FORMER BLUE ANGELS PILOT JOHN FOLEY
EPISODE 148: OVERCOMING TRAGEDY WITH SEBASTIAN “ZUKO” CARRASCO
EPISODE 152: MINDSETS WITH MATT LEWIS, NAVY SEAL AND COO
EPISODE 159: LONNIE BEDWELL FEAR SLAYER
EPISODE 161: DR> HOBY WEDLER AND HIS SUPER SENSES
EPISODE 162: SEEING SILENCE WITH PETER MCBRIDE2023-02-2255 min
Conversations with Roberto#4 | 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐍𝐨𝐰 | Lisa Kipps BrownSend us a textWho is Lisa Kipps-Brown Lisa helps entrepreneurs solve big picture problems with disruptive strategic thinking and no gobbledygook. Author of the books Disrupt Your Now and Boomer Cashout, she’s a refreshing change in a world full of self-proclaimed experts who throw jargon around like candy. Her father was blind, which ironically gave her a natural advantage. Every day she watched him do things that anyone would think he shouldn’t be able to do: operate a lathe, ride horses, play basketball, own a business, and even mow th...2023-01-0547 min
The Your Own Pay PodcastIn Perspective, 290, With Dr. Hoby Wedler, Blind Chemist and EntrepreneurDecember 30, 2022 edition of “In Perspective” The post In Perspective, 290, With Dr. Hoby Wedler, Blind Chemist and Entrepreneur appeared first on Branco Events.2022-12-3000 min
Tao of Pizza PodcastPromoting Superior Customer Service, Diversity, and Inclusivity With Dr. Hoby WedlerDr. Hoby Wedler is a chemist, entrepreneur, educator, and sensory expert. After earning his PhD in organic chemistry from the University of California, Davis in 2016, Dr. Wedler went on to combine his love of science with the food and beverage industry as a product development consultant and sensory expert. His work was recognized by Barack Obama who named him a Champion of Change for enhancing employment and education opportunities for people with disabilities. He was also named by Forbes Media as a leader in food and drink in their 30 Under 30 annual publication. Dr. Wedler is the CEO...2022-12-1943 min
Destiny Is DebatableBuild Your Own Table with Jackie SummersEntrepreneur and founder of Jack From Brooklyn, Jackie Summers shares how a health scare caused him to reevaluate his priorities, create a liqueur company, and build his own table. While creating Sorel, a modern twist on a 500-year-old Caribbean classic, he became America’s first black legal distiller and filled his team with diversity and inclusion in mind. With the help of Dr Hoby Wedler, Sorel is found in over 20 states in the US and is available to ship from sorelofficial.com. Whether you enjoy Sorel hot, cold, or in a cocktail, Cheers!
A 500 Year Journey
Bo...2022-12-1328 minNo BarriersDr. Hoby Wedler and his Super SensesAs Dr, Hoby Wedler puts it, wine is just two ingredients, yeast and grapes. Yet when people talk about how wine tastes it’s more complex and described through the lens of fruit flavors or perfumes or other plants and trees. As a food and beverage sensory expert Dr. Wedler's clients rely his abilities to translate those complexities into products that you and I enjoy. There is a twist though. Dr. Wedler is blind.
Hoby earned a Ph.D. in chemistry at the University of California, Davis, and is the founder and director of the nonprofit organization, Accessible Science. In ou...2022-11-181h 05
Bold Blind Beauty On A.I.R.Season 2 - Episode 10: Looking Beyond Eyesight Featuring Dr. Hoby Wedler & Jackie SummersEpisode title and number: Looking Beyond Eyesight Featuring Dr. Hoby Wedler & Jackie Summers | Season 2 - #10Brief summary of the show:Welcome to Season 2 Episode 10 of Bold Blind Beauty On A.I.R. This month's episode centers on a beautiful partnership of two individuals who come together to create a unified front to combat systemic barriers. Topics revolve around barrier-breaking, sensory literacy, privilege, diversity, blindness, aromatic symphony, and more.Dr. Hoby Wedler's Bio:Dr. Hoby Wedler is an insightful, disarming, and passionate thinker who loves to bring people to...2022-11-0441 min