Outlook On-Air

Honoring Outlook Associates & the Power of Peer Support

In this episode, we sit down with Outlook Nebraska's 2025 Associate of the Year, Morie Dinovo, First Shift Team Facilitator, and the Outlook Nebraska 2025 Peter J. Salmon Associate of the Year, Mortel Crawford, Second Shift Finisher. They share insights into their roles and time at Outlook, and what this recognition means to them.

We’re also joined by Ross Pollpeter, Program Facilitator at Outlook Enrichment, who offers a behind-the-scenes look at our peer support groups. He’s joined by Tim Green, an Outlook Enrichment client, who opens up about his personal journey with vision loss and how he got connected with Outlook. Together, Ross and Tim discuss the importance of keeping support groups peer-led and how these spaces foster meaningful community and connection.

Teeing Up New Experiences & Smart Estate Planning

In this episode, we meet two Outlook associates who aren’t afraid to step outside their comfort zones. Marisa Ethofer, Outlook Nebraska's HR Generalist, and Megan Mackie, Outlook Enrichment's Community Events Coordinator, both took a swing at something new by participating in Outlook Enrichment’s Blind Golfers Clinic on our golf simulator and later hitting the greens at our annual Tee It Up Fore Sight tournament. They share their stories of practicing, playing, and embracing the unexpected.

We’re also joined by attorney Steve Schmidt, who breaks down the basics of estate planning, why it matters, especially if you or a loved one has a disability and receives government assistance, and how to protect your assets for the future.

Dennis Nelson Talks Life and Radio With Guest Jill Thomas

In this special episode, the mic is turned around! Jill Thomas, former co-host of Pat and JT in the Morning on Sweet 98.5 (KQKQ) and current host of the Pat & JT podcast, takes the lead to interview our usual host, Dennis Nelson. 

In their conversation, Dennis opens up about his upbringing, including being adopted and living with congenital blindness caused by detached retinas. He reflects on his path through various jobs before discovering his true passion: radio. Dennis shares how that passion grew into a fulfilling career and marked a new chapter when he connected with Outlook.

The Power of Adaptation in Recreation & Life

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Messerole and Glen Wragge from the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s School of Health and Kinesiology. Both have played a key role in shaping Outlook Enrichment’s Adaptive Recreation Program.

They share the creative challenges and rewarding moments they’ve encountered while working with youth who are blind or visually impaired, and how these experiences have reshaped the way they teach, plan, and think about inclusion in physical activity.

We’re also joined by Keli O'Dell, a machine operator at Outlook Nebraska who has been part of our team for seven years. Born with cataracts that led to lifelong low vision, Keli opens up about his journey and what working at Outlook has meant to him personally and professionally.

Over a Decade of Dedication at Outlook With Kenny, Drew, & James

In this episode of Outlook On-Air, we’re joined by Kenny Blackman, Drew Zander, and James Harvey, three longtime associates who have each been part of the Outlook Nebraska team for over a decade. They share their personal and professional growth journeys, the sense of community they’ve found here, and how working at Outlook has helped them regain independence in their daily lives.

Planning for the Future: Retirement Readiness with Feltz WealthPLAN

In this episode of Outlook On-Air, Wade and Christine Behlen of Feltz WealthPLAN join us to share how they help organizations like Outlook support their associates in planning for a successful retirement through tools like 401(k) plans. The Behlens, longtime friends of Outlook, are active participants in our Tee It Up Fore Sight Golf Tournament and Vision Beyond Sight Gala. We’re grateful for their continued support, both professionally and personally.

Wade also shares his personal connection to Outlook, reflecting on the meaningful insights he’s gained about blindness and visual impairment etiquette through his interactions with our associates.

Building Community With BisonHeartGroup

Founder Callie Getzschman of BisonHeartGroup joined us on Outlook On-Air for our March episode! We love connecting with others who are passionate about supporting small businesses and nonprofits. Callie specializes in brand image, strategic planning, and community engagement. Learn how she’s helping businesses, including Outlook, grow and thrive!

Gary's Story and Additional Insights on BlindShell

In this episode of Outlook On-Air, host Dennis Nelson dives deeper into the features of the BlindShell phone, showcasing its radio and internet features.

Joining Dennis is Outlook Nebraska associate Gary Crane, who opens up about his personal journey with vision loss caused by retinoschisis. Gary shares his story of connecting with Outlook Nebraska, his experiences, and more. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation!