Seeing Beyond Sight: Andrew Leland's Journey Through Blindness

Saint Louis In Tune

Andrew Leland joins us for a deeply engaging chat about his life and his memoir, The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight. This isn't just any old memoir; it's a journey through the intricate layers of navigating life as someone experiencing blindness. Picture this: Andrew, a writer and audio producer, begins to lose his sight but instead of retreating into darkness, he dives headfirst into the vibrant world that opens up when you start to see beyond vision.

We explore his personal milestones—like the moment he picked up a white cane and the whirlwind of social dynamics that followed. Suddenly, he wasn't just Andrew; he was 'the blind guy', and that title brought with it a flurry of assumptions, expectations, and a hefty dose of pity. But Andrew is not one to let societal labels define him. He shares how blindness is often a conversation starter for deeper philosophical questions about perception, ability, and what it means to 'see'.

As our discussion unfolds, Andrew shares insights about the misconceptions surrounding blindness, the tech that empowers blind individuals today, and how acceptance can be a liberating force. Get ready for a thought-provoking episode that challenges the way we perceive disability, featuring Andrew’s witty commentary and sharp reflections on the human experience..

[00:00] Introduction and Welcome

[00:45] Meet Andrew Leland: Author and Advocate

[01:37] Living with Retinitis Pigmentosa

[05:33] Social Perceptions and Stigma

[11:31] Technology and Accessibility

[17:02] Defining Blindness and Acceptance

[25:37] Andrew's Journey and Future Plans

[27:47] Conclusion and Farewell

Takeaways:

• Andrew Leland shares his journey with retinitis pigmentosa, exploring how it affects his vision and life.
• The conversation dives into societal perceptions of blindness and the stigma surrounding disabilities, revealing personal stories.
• Leland emphasizes the importance of assistive technologies, like braille and screen readers, for blind individuals.
• The impact of using a white cane transforms Andrew's social experience, changing how people interact with him.
• Leland discusses misconceptions about blindness, highlighting that blind people can still be tech-savvy and independent.
• His memoir reveals the philosophical questions surrounding perception, disability, and identity, making it a thought-provoking read.

• Andrew Leland
• Andrew Leland - The Country of the Blind - SFC Carl & Helene Mirowitz Performing Arts Center - St. Louis - Nov 2, 2025 · Showpass
• The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight - Wikipedia
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This is Season 8! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

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