HeyJaredTaking the Lead
Leader Dogs for the Blind empowers people who are blind or visually impaired with the tools for safe and independent daily travel. Our goal is to educate, advocate, and share real life experiences of those with blindness. Come learn, laugh, and grow with us.
- Indexed episodes, last 90 days
- 5
- Latest publication
- Sep 10, 2026
- Audience
- Checking…
- Earliest in this view
- Jul 16, 2026
Latest episodes
Leap of Faith (opens the original)
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In this episode of Taking the Lead , Leslie, Alyssa, and Timothy pull back the curtain on what it's really like to attend Orientation & Mobility or Guide Dog training at Leader Dog. From travel arrangements and campus life to individualized instruction, dining, and resident support, they walk listeners through every step of the experience and share reassuring insights for anyone considering training. Whether you're preparing for your first visit or simply curious about the journey, this episode
I Can Do This (opens the original)
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In this episode of Taking the Lead , we sit down with Manny Puma, a psychology student, competitive goalball athlete, and Leader Dog client, to discuss his journey from lifelong cane user to guide dog handler and advocate for blind athletes. Manny shares how his experiences with Leader Dog, higher education, and adaptive sports have shaped his independence, confidence, and future goals, including growing the sport of goalball and pursuing a career in mental health counseling. Along the way, he o
Foot in the Door (opens the original)
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In this episode of Taking the Lead , Leslie, Alyssa, and Timothy sit down with Erica Bearden, Director of Human Resources at Leader Dog, to explore what makes the organization’s culture, hiring process, and mission so unique. Erica shares her journey to Leader Dog, discusses the qualities that help team members thrive, and highlights exciting initiatives such as dual certification opportunities that expand services for clients. The conversation offers an inside look at the passion, collaboration
It's a Gray Area (opens the original)
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Join us for a heartfelt summer short episode of Taking the Lead as we explore the life cycle of a Leader Dog, from puppy raiser to working guide and ultimately retirement. Tim shares his personal journey as he prepares for Glacier's retirement, offering an honest look at the emotions, decisions, and support that come with this important transition. It's a touching conversation about partnership, independence, and the lasting impact these remarkable dogs have on the people they serve.
The Harness Study (opens the original)
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This episode of Taking the Lead features Emily Sharp, a guide dog mobility instructor and program manager at Leader Dog, who shares her journey into the field and her current work supporting guide dog training and quality assurance. She highlights a recent collaborative harness study with university partners that explores how different harness designs impact guide dogs’ comfort, movement, and performance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of research, client feedback, and industry colla
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