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Amplifying Disability Voices in the Outdoors
Whether on a stage, in a classroom, or on a trail, I speak to bridge the gap between lived experience and inclusive action. Through storytelling and personal narrative, I invite audiences to rethink what it means to connect with nature- and who gets to be included in that experience.
Why I Speak
My journey with vision loss and the outdoors has been one of challenge, discovery, and deep connection. I speak to advocate for inclusive recreation, share stories that shift perspectives, and spark conversations about accessibility, disability justice, and belonging in natural spaces.
Topics I Speak About
Each talk is tailored to your audience and goals. Below are a few of my most requested themes:
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Centering the Disability Experience in Developing an Inclusive Identity
An examination of how centering disability in developing an inclusive identity can lead to greater growth for any sector.
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Lessons from a Leader Dog
The partnership between a guide dog and their handler is one of deep trust, understanding, and love, and this presentation explores the valuable life lessons gained from more than a decade of working with a guide dog—lessons that can enrich anyone’s life.
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Inclusive Innovations to Support Community, Curiosity, and Connection
Practical steps for making education, events, and recreation more welcoming for people with disabilities, with an emphasis on blindness and low vision.
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Traversing the Trail of Vision Loss
A personal journey of adaption, community, and resilience that empowers the audience to face impermanence with grace.
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Breaking the Ice on Blindness
A deep dive into how people who are blind or low vision navigate life and practical strategies to break visual barriers for families, friends, colleagues, and visitors who are blind or low vision.
Photo Description: Shannon stands behind a podium, speaking into a microphone. She’s wearing a blue, bell-sleeved shirt and a black skirt. Frasier, a black lab/golden retriever mix, lays next to the podium in harness and staring at the camera.
I’ve had the privilege of sharing my story and insights with:
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Universities and K–12 classrooms
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Environmental educators and outdoor program leaders
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Nonprofits and park districts
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Disability advocacy organizations
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Conferences, panels, and public events
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Corporate teams interested in accessibility and inclusive storytelling
Who I Speak To
Formats Available
All formats can be adapted to in-person or virtual delivery.
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Keynotes
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Guest lectures
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Panels and Q&As
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Professional development sessions
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Workshops and trainings
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Nature walks with storytelling elements
Looking for a speaker who blends lived experience, environmental education, and real-world accessibility practices? Let’s talk.
Book Me to Speak
Interested in booking me for your event or organization? I’d love to hear more about your audience and goals.