Penn and Moses sit down with Spirit Club founder Jared Ciner to unpack a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to fitness for the blind and low-vision community. Jared shares Michael’s step-by-step journey from “not for me” to thriving in group classes—proof that small wins compound. They discuss functional movement you can do anywhere (no fancy gear required), how partnerships with agencies like Aftersight expand access, and Spirit Club’s new Denver hub launching in-person programs by September. Jared also previews an NIH-supported expansion for brain-injury-friendly content and encourages “exercise snacks”—quick bursts that boost mood and momentum. Listeners get a discount with promo code AFTERSIGHT at checkout. Plus: details on Aftersight’s fully accessible Audio Trekkers Hike on September 13 in Boulder.
Contact Info
Spirit Club
Website: spiritclub.com (virtual & in-person programs; certification coming soon)
Promo code: AFTERSIGHT (discount at checkout)
Aftersight
Website: aftersight.org/hike (Audio Trekkers Hike info) • aftersight.org
General inquiries / guests: feedback@aftersight.org • (720) 712-8856
Show Credits
Hosts: Penn Street & Moses Street
Producer: Jonathan Price
Chapter Markers
00:00 — Cold open, Part 2 setup, Spirit Club promo + hike tease
02:21 — Michael’s story: from “nope” to group classes and front-desk greeter
04:44 — Trauma-informed, strengths-based coaching vs. drill-sergeant fitness
07:08 — Adaptive equipment? Start with bodyweight and real-life movements
09:30 — Breaking down “get up from the floor” into four learnable steps
11:56 — Garden squats, standing desks, and building everyday endurance
14:19 — Partnering with agencies; how orgs stream Spirit Club to members
16:41 — Advocacy: Spirit Club Foundation, funding access, pro certification
19:03 — Join the movement; Denver hub launches in-person by September
21:27 — “Everybody can move”: mood, support, and 100% progress stories
23:51 — Penn’s dance class win; connecting mental and physical health
26:12 — “Exercise snacks”: five-minute bursts that change your day
28:34 — Call-to-action: try Spirit Club, use AFTERSIGHT, and join the Sept 13 hike in Boulder