The Blind Life Podcast

Audiobook Club: Dungeon Crawler Carl (& Princess Donut!) Ep. 56 03.07.2026 26min

Welcome back to the Audiobook Club! In this episode, I'm joined by my wife Rachel and our good friends Myrna and Dan as we dive into the wildly entertaining Dungeon Crawler Carl series. We share our favorite characters, discuss some of the most outrageous moments from the books, and talk about why Jeff Hays' incredible audiobook performance has made this one of our all-time favorite audiobook series. Whether you're already a fan or just curious what all the hype is about, join the conversation! If you're looking for your next great listen, here you go! BARD Mobile codes: DCC - DB128135 Carl's doomsday scenario - DB128508 The Butcher's Masquerade - DB128526 The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook - DB128509 The Gate of the Feral Gods - DB128510 The Eye of the Bedlam Bride - DB128527 This Inevitable Ruin - DB128528 Audible: https://www.audible.com/series/Dungeon-Crawler-Carl-Audiobooks/B0937JMKYV?srsltid=AfmBOooIqkGRXQXuqWRMkHXzFuUbVvuXY86_oIX7fsR6VfB7w4ZUL5Xr You can also get a FREE Trial of Audible: https://amzn.to/2wCA87F #DungeonCrawlerCarl #Audiobooks #AudiobookClub #TheBlindLife #Blind #LowVision #BARDMobile #Audible #JeffHays

Accessible App Overview: Hadley App Ep. 55 28.06.2026 7min

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/

Accessible App Overview: COOKIE Voice Recipes Ep 54 07.06.2026 7min

In this episode of the Accessible App Overview series, we're taking a look at the Cookie Voice Recipes app. This AI-powered app delivers accessible recipes and allows you to interact entirely through your voice. You can listen to ingredients and step-by-step instructions, ask questions along the way, and get the information you need completely hands-free. App link: https://cookievoicerecipes.com/

Master NVDA with NVDA Coach: Free Screen Reader Training Add-On Ep. 53 27.05.2026 18min

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

Coping With The Emotional Side of Vision Loss | Joan Jaeger Talks About A New Hadley Workshop Series Ep. 52 13.05.2026 34min

In this episode of The Blind Life Podcast, I sit down with Joan Jaeger from Hadley to talk about the emotional side of vision loss, peer support, asking for help, and Hadley’s new “Coping and Adjusting Together” workshop series. An important conversation about mental health, low vision, blindness, and learning how to move forward after vision loss. Visit Hadley to learn more: ► https://hadleyhelps.org/ #Blindness #LowVision #VisionLoss #AssistiveTechnology #MentalHealth #TheBlindLife #Hadley #BlindCommunity #DisabilityAwareness #Accessibility

Gene Therapy for Vision Loss Explained - An Interview With AAVantgarde Ep 51 18.04.2026 33min

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 ► clinicaltrials@aavantgarde.com ► patientadvocacy@aavantgarde.com 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

Birding by Ear: All About Blind Birding And The Annual Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon! Ep 50 15.04.2026 16min

I sat down with Jerry Barrier to explore the world of blind birding and why it’s such a powerful, accessible hobby. By focusing on bird calls, you don’t need sight to enjoy the experience fully. We also discuss helpful smartphone apps and dive into the upcoming Global Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon (May 3–4, 2026), a 24-hour event celebrating connection through sound! Birdability website ► https://www.birdability.org/ Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon 2026: ► https://www.birdability.org/blind-birdathon #BlindBirding #BirdingByEar #Accessibility #BirdingCommunity #AssistiveTechnology #TheBlindLife #Inclusion #NatureForAll

Breaking the Music Barrier: Accessible Sheet Music for the Blind & More! Ep. 49 17.02.2026 36min

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

Breaking Barriers: How ABLR Is Creating Real Jobs for the Blind - Ep. 48 31.12.2025 35min

In this interview, I talk with Mike Iannelli, co-founder of ABLR, and Heather Buster, a visually impaired professional who completed the ABLR workforce training program and went on to secure meaningful employment. We discuss what ABLR is, how the accredited training program works, and why digital accessibility testing is a strong career path for blind and visually impaired individuals. Mike shares insight into the program’s structure, its impact on the blind community, and real success stories from graduates. Heather offers a firsthand look at her experience—what she expected, the challenges she faced, and why the program exceeded her expectations. We also talk honestly about the program’s difficulty and how determination and hard work can lead to real career opportunities. Learn more here: ► https://ablr360.com/theblindlife Email Mike and Heather: ► michael.iannelli@ablr360.com ► hbuster1@gmail.com #ABLR360 #DigitalAccessibility #BlindEmployment #VisuallyImpaired #AccessibilityTesting #InclusiveEmployment #BlindCareers #AssistiveTechnology #AccessibilityMatters #TheBlindLife

Accessibyte: Fun and Accessible Learning Tools for the Blind and Visually Impaired - Ep. 47 17.10.2025 21min

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

Ep. 46 Splice Bio And The Future Of Vision Loss Treatment | Gene Therapy For Stargardt Disease 09.09.2025 26min

In this interview, we sit down with John Tobin, Vice President of Clinical Operations at Splice Bio, to explore groundbreaking gene therapy research for Stargardt’s disease and its potential impact on the blind and visually impaired community. John shares insights into Splice Bio’s mission, how their innovative work could transform options for people living with vision loss, and what families, professionals, and supporters should know about emerging treatments. Stay tuned until the end for information on how to get involved in Splice Bio’s clinical trials. Learn more here: www.splice.bio/clinical Or send an email to: Clinicaltrials@splice.bio #SpliceBio #genetherapy #clinicaltrials

Blind-Led Innovation in Action: How NFB and InnoSearch Are Changing the Game! Episode 45 26.07.2025 22min

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

Massive Apple Accessibility Updates Just Announced! New Accessibility Features for 2025 - Ep. 44 16.06.2025 7min

In this episode, I break down all the brand-new accessibility features coming to **iOS, macOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and VisionOS** this summer. From accessibility nutrition labels in the App Store to Live Captions on Apple Watch, Braille Note Taker functionality, and even personal voice upgrades, Apple is making huge strides for users with low vision, blindness, hearing loss, and other disabilities. And yes, major improvements are also coming to the Apple Vision Pro! Whether you're blind, visually impaired, hard of hearing, or just someone who loves accessible tech, you don’t want to miss these updates. Learn more ► https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/05/apple-unveils-powerful-accessibility-features-coming-later-this-year/ ► https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/13/apple-unveils-ios-19-accessibility-features/ Watch my Apple Vision Pro videos!: ► https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLThdr7uPwVs12xgN9CSEtAqnJR9URSL9Q In this episode * Accessibility Nutrition Labels * Magnifier App on Mac * Accessibility Reader Across Platforms * Braille Access Updates * Live Listen & Captions on Apple Watch * Personal Voice Upgrade * Accessibility Sharing on Shared Devices * Apple Vision Pro Accessibility Enhancements #AppleAccessibility #BlindTech #TheBlindLife #iOSAccessibility #VisionPro #LowVisionSupport #BrailleTech #AssistiveTech #DigitalInclusion #AccessibilityMatters

Ep. 43, A Staff of Independence - History of the White Cane 10.06.2025 23min

"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

Ep. 42. New Partnership! Be My Eyes + InnoSearch Make Online Shopping Accessible 15.05.2025 9min

In this exciting episode of The Blind Life, Sam is joined by InnoSearch AI and Be My Eyes representatives to announce a groundbreaking new partnership that will revolutionize accessible shopping for the blind and visually impaired community. InnoSearch AI is a screen-reader-optimized shopping and travel platform offering access to over one billion products and services. Thanks to their collaboration with Be My Eyes, users can access InnoSearch directly from the Be My Eyes app, making the experience even more seamless and convenient. If you're blind or have low vision, this partnership could unlock new levels of independence, savings, and confidence when navigating the online world. Learn more about InnoSearch AI and sign up for a free account + $10 shopping credit: ► https://innosearch.ai/r/nRhfYt Download Be My Eyes for iOS, Android, or Windows: ► https://www.bemyeyes.com/

Ep 41. Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses 2025: Updates You Need to Know About! Live AI Is Here!! 03.05.2025 10min

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

Ep 40. BlindShell Classic 3 – The Best Accessible Phone Just Got Better 19.02.2025 19min

The BlindShell Classic 3 is here. This latest version of the popular accessible phone for the blind and visually impaired comes packed with major upgrades, including a touchscreen for select apps, a faster processor, and a brand-new AI assistant, Luna. Plus, we’re diving into Tandem, the exclusive BlindShell app that makes communication easier than ever. New Features: - Touchscreen support for select third-party apps - Luna AI Assistant for voice commands and general knowledge - Tandem App for messaging, video calls, and remote support - Upgraded performance with 3GB RAM and 32GB storage - New design and colors (Golden Sand and Ocean Blue) If you're looking for an accessible, easy-to-use cell phone with physical buttons and a simple interface, this might be the perfect choice. Watch the full review to see all the features in action. Get yours here: ► https://www.blindshell.com/ Check out my BlindShell Classic 2 review: ► https://youtu.be/5r9V_UsJ6ng?si=2Y9Bl3QOq27lG7GR #BlindShellClassic3 #AccessibleTechnology #AssistiveTech #BlindLife #LowVision #VisuallyImpaired #AdaptiveTechnology #TechForAll #AIAssistant #TandemApp

Ep 39. Invisible No More: Overcoming Isolation in Social Gatherings for the Visually Impaired 31.12.2024 4min

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

Ep. 38. The Working Blind Series - Drew Crook Accessibility Architect at Paramount Global 16.11.2024 32min

Welcome to The Blind Life Podcast! In this exciting episode, we're joined by Drew Crook, an accessibility architect at Paramount Global. Drew is at the forefront of making streaming platforms like Pluto TV and Paramount Plus more accessible to everyone. Drew shares his personal journey living with a vision impairment, and how he thrives in his career with the support of his third guide dog. We dive deep into his experiences, from the hiring process to the reasonable accommodations that help him excel at his job. You'll also hear some eye-opening stories about Drew's interactions with customers at an Apple store, which will shed light on his challenges and triumphs! Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Follow Drew on LinkedIn and stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. (41) Andrew Crook | LinkedIn Listen now and be inspired! #BlindLifePodcast #Accessibility #ParamountGlobal #TubiTV #ParamountPlus #VisionImpairment #GuideDog #Inspiration #TechTalk #DisabilityAdvocacy

Ep. 37. Deep Dive Into The Meta Ray-Ban Accessibility For The Blind And Visually Impaired 12.10.2024 11min

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!