The Blind Life Podcast

Looking for employment support for people who are blind or visually impaired? In this episode of The Blind Life Podcast, Shannon and Logan from Ablr explain how their Workforce Development program helps participants build skills and work toward meaningful employment. We discuss assistive technology training, digital accessibility certifications, paid internships, interview preparation, and ongoing career support. Learn what to expect, who the program is for, and how to get started through your vocational rehabilitation counselor. Learn more about Ablr: https://ablr360.com/theblindlife #BlindEmployment #AssistiveTechnology #DigitalAccessibility #VocationalRehabilitation #TheBlindLife

Accessible story time should be available to every family. In this video, I introduce Inside Ability Books, a collection of children’s books featuring large print and high-contrast designs for readers with low vision. I also speak with founder Krystle Boateng about how her own frustration with finding accessible books to read to her children inspired her to create a better option. Website: https://www.iabilitybooks.com/ #AccessibleBooks #LowVision #ChildrensBooks #BlindParents #InclusiveReading #Accessibility

In this episode of the Accessible App Overview podcast series, we're taking a look at the new Companion app from Hadley. Available for both Android and iOS, the app gives you easy access to all of Hadley's services, including a convenient way to call and connect with their support team directly. If you're already a fan of Hadley and the resources they provide, this is definitely an app you'll want to download. Android app link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.hadleyhelps.Hadley&hl=en_US iOS app link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hadley-helps/id6759167622 Hadley's website: https://hadleyhelps.org/

I sat down with Tony Gabehart to discuss NVDA Coach, a free interactive training add-on for the NVDA screen reader. Designed for both beginners and experienced users, NVDA Coach helps people learn NVDA through guided lessons, keyboard commands, and hands-on practice. A fantastic resource for blind and visually impaired users, assistive technology trainers, and anyone wanting to improve their screen reader skills. Link to download: https://tonygebhard.me/NVDACoach/ #NVDA #ScreenReader #AssistiveTech #Accessibility #BlindTech #NVDACoach #InclusiveTechnology

What is ocular gene therapy, and could it treat inherited retinal diseases like Stargardt and Usher syndrome? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jayashree Sahni of AAVantgarde to break down how gene therapy works, what clinical trials involve, and what patients can expect. We cut through the myths and explore the real potential of gene therapy for vision loss. Contact AAVantgarde to learn more: ► www.aavantgarde.com ► [email protected] ► [email protected] Get the full transcription here: ► https://docs.google.com/document/d/17yR24WkAZ2lHd1iCoKXtANoZ-vFd6XqU5K5d154kjgE/edit?usp=sharing #GeneTherapy #Stargardts #RetinitisPigmentosa #Blindness #VisionLoss #AssistiveTechnology #ClinicalTrials #EyeHealth #AAVantgarde

In this interview, I talk with Tamara, a professional musician who has been teaching accessible music for blind and visually impaired musicians for nearly 20 years. We explore low-tech and high-tech options for learning and reading sheet music, from traditional approaches to modern assistive technology. Tamara also shares insights from her accessible music theory books designed specifically for blind musicians. This conversation is packed with practical advice for blind musicians, music students, and educators looking to make music more accessible. Learn more here: https://odysseymusic.ca/ Tamara's YT channel - "Unsightly Opinions": https://www.youtube.com/@UnsightlyOpinions/videos

In this episode of The Blind Life Podcast, Sam sits down with Joe Jorgensen, creator of "Accessibyte", a powerful suite of assistive technology tools designed to help the blind and visually impaired community build essential skills for school, work, and everyday life. From the interactive Typio typing program to fun, educational games in Accessibyte Arcade, Joe shares how his accessible software and adaptive equipment make learning engaging and truly inclusive. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or someone living with vision loss, this episode offers valuable insight into how technology continues to break down barriers and empower independence for people with low vision. Check it out here: https://www.accessibyte.com/ #BlindCommunity #AssistiveTechnology #Accessibility #LowVision #VisionLoss

In this episode, Sam speaks with Patrick Long of InnoSearch.ai and Mark Riccobono of the NFB about their new partnership to improve digital accessibility for blind users. Rather than focusing on basic compliance, the conversation explores true usability—addressing issues like unlabeled buttons and missing alt text. They emphasize the need for blind-led innovation and meaningful collaboration with the community. The NFB’s long-standing advocacy efforts are discussed, along with practical steps tech companies can take to create inclusive products. A new checkout feature also lets customers support the NFB by rounding up purchases, blending commerce with accessibility-focused advocacy. blind tech, assistive technology, digital accessibility, InnoSearch.ai, National Federation of the Blind, NFB partnership, screen reader usability, blind advocacy, accessible shopping, inclusive design, blind podcast, low vision tools#BlindLife #AccessibilityMatters #AssistiveTech #BlindCommunity #InnoSearch #NFB #DigitalInclusion #BlindAdvocacy #AccessibleShopping #InclusiveTechnology

"A Staff Of Independence" As the US celebrates the anniversary of its independence, we are talking about the white cane and how it has brought independence to the visually impaired community. I also talked to several VIP influencers and asked them about their white cane journeys.Project Guiding White:► https://guidingwhite.wordpress.com/ACB:► http://www.acb.org/tennessee/white_cane_history.html#:~:text=James%20Biggs%20of%20Bristol%20claimed,himself%20more%20visible%20to%20motorists.Veronica Width Four Eyes:► https://veroniiiica.com/2018/01/12/decoding-the-colors-of-blindness-canes/ VIP Influencers featured in the video:Dave Steele, The Blind Poet► https://theblindpoet.net/Derek Daniel, Life After Sight Loss► https://www.youtube.com/user/derekdanielvidsCarrie Morales, Live Accessible► https://www.youtube.com/user/exentrquitaJames Rath, VIP Filmmaker► https://www.youtube.com/user/jamesrathCasey Greer, How Casey Sees It► https://www.youtube.com/user/KCfan7989Matt, Blind To Billionaire► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYqOP98j1cPqLzN2-AAgsHQJuan, JC5 Productions► https://www.youtube.com/user/JC12209

In this video, we’re diving into all the latest updates to the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses for 2025, including two game-changing features that just rolled out in April. Whether you're new to the Meta glasses or a longtime user, these updates bring some major quality-of-life improvements—especially for those of us in the blind and visually impaired community. I walk through how features like real-time object recognition, hands-free translation, Audible audiobook streaming, and enhanced Spotify voice controls are improving daily life. We also talk about international expansion for music app compatibility and the upgraded AI voice options—yes, even celebrity voices like John Cena! These updates are a huge step forward in accessibility and usability, and they’re already making tasks like traveling, shopping, and reading much easier for many of us. For full details, demos, and my thoughts on how this technology fits into our lives as blind and visually impaired users, watch the full video. Don’t forget to check out my accessibility-themed t-shirt designs, available through the link below or at [TheBlindLife.net](https://www.theblindlife.net). ✅ Like the video ✅ Subscribe to the channel ✅ Hit the bell so you don’t miss future updates ✅ Explore channel memberships for exclusive perks and monthly Zoom calls Thanks for watching and supporting The Blind Life! \#TheBlindLife #MetaRayBan #AssistiveTechnology #SmartGlasses #BlindTech #Accessibility #LiveAI #WearableTech #VisuallyImpaired #InclusiveDesign

In this heartfelt episode of "The Blind Life Podcast," we discuss the often-overlooked challenges faced by blind and visually impaired individuals at social events. From the struggle to recognize faces and read body language to the emotional weight of feeling invisible, we explore the complexities of navigating social spaces without sight. This anonymous Facebook post highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and small gestures that can make a significant difference. Tune in to hear personal stories, practical advice, and inspiring messages of resilience and connection. #BlindCommunity #VisuallyImpaired #SocialIsolation #Empathy #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #Connection #Resilience #SeeingBeyondSight

Okay, folks, get ready. Because today, we’re going deep, deep into the world of those Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. Oh, yeah. Hold on. We’re not just talking about how cool they look. But let’s be honest, they are pretty slick. Right. But you’ve sent us a ton of stuff on these glasses. Yeah. Reviews, articles, even some hints about what’s coming down the line. 🔍 Episode Highlights: Unboxing & First Impressions: Get an up-close look at the sleek design and premium build quality. Hardware Breakdown: Discover the open ear technology, five microphones, and the impressive 12-megapixel camera. User Experience: Hear about the seamless setup process, voice assistant capabilities, and the versatile MetaView app. Accessibility Insights: Are these glasses a game changer for people who are blind or visually impaired? We dive into the real-world usability and accessibility features. Personal Insights: Marco shares his hands-on experience and why he believes these glasses strike the perfect balance between features, price, and aesthetics. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just curious about the future of smart wearables, this episode is packed with insights and expert opinions. #RayBanMeta #SmartGlasses #WearableTech #TechReview #Podcast #TechTalk #Accessibility #BlindLife Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth reviews and tech discussions. Leave us a rating and review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with your friends who love tech!

In this episode of The Blind Life Podcast, Sam Seavey continues the Working Blind series with Christy, who shares her inspiring journey from a career in consulting to leading global disability accommodations at Otis Elevator. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at age 3, Christy talks about adapting to vision loss, the transition to audiobooks, and how self-advocacy plays a key role in creating a more accessible world. Listen in as she shares her professional and personal experiences to inspire others in the blind and visually impaired community. Check out more episodes in the *Working Blind* series on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode! #BlindLife #WorkingBlind #Accessibility #Audiobooks #RetinitisPigmentosa #AssistiveTechnology