Practical instruction on navigating alone to, from, and during a national convention as a totally blind person, along with inspirational observations and helpful guidance unique to program host Steve Baskis, highlight the August episode of “Visions of BVA,” the Association’s monthly podcast.

Unlike most of his other recent episodes, Steve has chosen to proceed solo in this one, offering a walkthrough of how he travels independently to the Blinded Veterans Association’s national conventions based on his own experiences and personal frame of reference as a totally blind person.

Drawing on now nearly two decades since his injuries in Iraq, Steve shares the systems, techniques, and mindset he uses to prepare for, navigate, and fully engage in the convention—from home to convention hotel and back home. He also details how he benefits from tools such as the white cane, screen readers, Aira, Be My Eyes, checklists, iPhones, and Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses all contribute to efficient and confident travel.

Steve’s candid monologue is both a personal story and a practical resource for blind and low vision veterans preparing to embark on their own personal journeys. Listeners who are inspired by this episode should visit BVA.org to learn more about the Blinded Veterans Association, explore available resources, and check the schedule for upcoming activities. Whether you are a new member or a longtime participant, now is the time to connect, prepare, and sign up to attend a future convention or VA-sponsored adaptive sports event!