Where can I listen to this podcast?

This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.

Does this podcast accept guests?

Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.

Hope in Focus Podcast

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by Hope in Focus

5.0(2 reviews)

12 episodes

Updated Daily

Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸

Podcast Overview

The Hope in Focus Podcast, hosted by Ben Shaberman, brings monthly stories and insights to the Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and inherited retinal disease (IRD) community. Together, we discuss personal stories, research and scientific updates—including gene therapy and drug development—tools and resources that support accessibility and independence, and insights to help families better understand early-onset vision loss. Hope in Focus is dedicated to generating awareness, raising funds for research, and providing support, education and outreach to the LCA and IRDs.

Language

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Publishing Since

9/10/2025

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Recent Episodes

July 6, 2026

Hope in Focus Podcast | Episode 12: Understanding Clinical Trials with Dr. Jason Comander

Dr. Jason Comander is the Ayub Family Chair in Ophthalmology and Director of the Inherited Retinal Disorder Service at Mass Eye and Ear. He has led several groundbreaking clinical trials, including delivering the first commercial dose of LUXTURNA® for LCA2 caused by RPE65 mutations and serving as the lead investigator and surgeon for the first CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing trial for LCA10 caused by CEP290 mutations. In this episode, Dr. Comander explains how gene therapies and gene editing approaches differ, shares insights from his experience leading clinical trials, and discusses what families should know when considering trial participation. He also explores emerging treatment approaches, including optogenetics and cell therapies, and offers an optimistic perspective on the future of inherited retinal disease research.

June 3, 2026

Hope in Focus Podcast | Episode 11 - Finding Her Voice: A Conversation with Sarah Hardwig

In this episode, we sit down with emerging country singer-songwriter Sarah Hardwig, who was diagnosed at just five months old with LCA10 CEP290. Sarah’s vision loss has never stopped her from pursuing her passion for music, showcasing her natural talent, or sharing her voice with others. Sarah opens up about growing up with vision loss, navigating school, and adapting to college life by learning new environments and classroom layouts. She also shares how she discovered her love for singing and songwriting, along with some of the biggest challenges she faced during college. Throughout the conversation, Sarah reflects on the vulnerability that comes with creating and performing music, reminding listeners that “everyone has their own story to tell, and everyone has their own way of telling it.” Stay tuned until the end of the episode for a special sneak peek of a live performance from Sarah.

May 13, 2026

Hope in Focus Podcast | Episode 10 - Insights from a Teacher of the Visually Impaired

In this episode, we’re joined by Beth, an education consultant with the Bureau of Education Services for the Blind at the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services. With more than 20 years of experience as a certified Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI), Beth supports children and their families as they navigate the educational journey with low vision. She shares how she found her path into this field and offers practical guidance for parents who are just getting started—covering everything from understanding available resources to making decisions about mainstream education versus schools for the blind. Beth also talks about the importance of advocacy, adapting learning materials, and building the skills students need for independence.

12 total episodes available

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Frequently asked questions

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What is Hope in Focus Podcast?: The Hope in Focus Podcast, hosted by Ben Shaberman, brings monthly stories and insights to the Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and inherited retinal disease (IRD) community. Together, we discuss personal stories, research and scientific updates—including gene therapy and drug development—tools and resources that support accessibility and independence, and insights to help families better understand early-onset vision loss.

Hope in Focus is dedicated to generating awareness, raising funds for research, and providing support, education and outreach to the LCA and IRDs.
How often does this podcast release new episodes?: This podcast updates daily.
Where can I listen to this podcast?: This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
Does this podcast accept guests?: Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.

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