Part 4 of the “Telling Your Story” series explores the moment after you’ve shared your story with a few trusted people—and what it takes to move from private courage to public confidence. Bill and Bethany dive into shame, identity, pride, and the fear of “sticking out,” unpacking how those internal battles shape the way people with blindness show up in the world. The conversation moves through humor, hard truths, and deeply human stories—from awkward cane moments and guide-dog pride to skydiving, kitchen mishaps, and falling off stages. Bill reflects on learning to speak to thousands without knowing it, and Bethany shares the tension of wanting to inspire but not wanting to be an “inspiration story.” Together, they break down: Why sharing your story helps you reclaim your identity How to deal with misunderstanding, awkward interactions, and unwanted “help” Why shame often shows up for blind and low-vision people—and how to push back The difference between doing life differently and being “less than” How humor becomes a powerful tool to open people up Why everyday moments—helping your kids with homework, hiking with a guide dog, navigating a picnic—are the real stages you stand on Why connecting with others who “get it” matters to your confidence and resilience This episode encourages listeners to embrace their story, share it boldly (even when it’s uncomfortable), and recognize that everyday courage creates real change. Contact Info Guest / Co-Host Bethany Joy Boring Aftersight Website: aftersight.org Email for guest inquiries: jonathan@aftersight.org Phone: 720-712-8856 Producer Credits Produced by Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer at Aftersight. Show Credits Host: Bill Lundgren Co-Host: Bethany Joy Boring Producer: Jonathan Price An Aftersight Original Podcast Chapter Markers 00:00 — Opening & Recap of the Series 01:48 — Sharing Your Story Beyond Close Friends 03:50 — Hurtful Comments, Vulnerability, and Identity 05:30 — Humor as a Tool for Comfort and Connection 07:48 — Finding Language to Explain Vision Loss 09:40 — Bill’s Early Podcast Nerves & Learning New Tech 11:30 — Realizing Your Story Reaches the World 13:00 — Shame, Pride, and “Doing Things Differently” 15:20 — Basketball, Muscle Memory & Challenging Assumptions 17:45 — Everyday Moments as Your “Podium” 20:10 — Cane Shame, Guide Dogs & Accepting Visibility 22:39 — Advocating for Yourself Without Apology 24:20 — Pain, Triumphs & Why Both Matter 26:25 — Hikes, Helpfulness & When Others Get in the Way 28:40 — The Universal Language of Struggle 30:15 — Using Technology to Connect With Family 32:10 — Educating the Public (Even When You’re Tired) 34:00 — Healthy Boundaries, “Hug Reflex,” and Self-Advocacy 36:10 — Building a Circle That Stays at the Table 38:00 — Everyday Courage & Living Life Differently 41:05 — Closing Reflections on Storytelling and Connection