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EPISODE DESCRIPTION Tech companies promise “life-changing.” Then you open the app and meet the unlabeled rectangle of doom. Evan Starnes is joined by Aftersight’s lead podcast producer (and returning BLT co-host) Jonathan Price for a banter-forward reality check on modern tech hype—especially through the lens of accessibility. Inspired by a listener email from Ron in Memphis, they unpack why “AI everywhere” can create more friction than freedom, how subscription creep turns products into monthly relationships, and why companies keep shipping half-baked devices that depend on updates and vague “bug fixes.” Then it’s time for Tech Faceplant: the smart device that can’t survive setup, the app that became a dashboard, and the “next big thing” hardware that doesn’t fit real life. The episode wraps with a practical BLT buyer checklist built around independence, reliability, accessibility support, and exit costs—because if you can’t set it up solo, it’s not premium…it’s dependent. SEND US YOUR TECH FACEPLANTS Email: [email protected] Voicemail: 720-712-8856 Put “BLT Tech Faceplant” in the subject/message so we can find it fast. CREDITS Host: Evan Starnes Co-host: Jonathan Price Producer: Jonathan Price CHAPTERS 00:02 — Evan’s “overheated co-host” intro + Jonathan’s back for banter 02:25 — Weather whiplash + quick note on seasonal mental health 04:51 — Ron (Memphis) email: “Tech Faceplant” + accessibility truth bombs 07:16 — Evan’s $300 “smart” toothbrush: app required, accessibility fails 09:40 — If it’s not usable day one, it’s not a breakthrough—it’s a project 12:00 — AI everywhere: real value vs. nuisance overlays (and battery hits) 16:31 — Subscription creep: products becoming monthly relationships 18:54 — “Smart” mattress example: app features locked behind a paywall 23:42 — Hotel mini-bar sensors + tactile exploration accessibility barrier 25:58 — Half-baked launches + OTA updates + vague release notes 28:25 — Tech Faceplant #2: the app that became a dashboard 30:49 — Tech Faceplant #3: hardware that doesn’t fit real life 33:12 — The first 5-minute BLV reality check: setup + QR-code traps 35:30 — Buyer rules: “Does it need to be smart?” + reviews + BLV validation 40:21 — Non-negotiables: app dependence + offline access + “paperweight” risk 42:11 — Send your tech fails + next episode tease: tech that actually delivers 46:48 — Outro: “Hope is loud and usability is quiet.” (00:00) - Tempo: 120.0

1) Episode Summary  Evan explores why “old school” tech is showing signs of a comeback—starting with landline-style phones—and why some people (especially younger generations) are intentionally stepping back from always-on screens. He shares how a listener conversation sparked research into reported trends around landlines, “landline mode” smartphone setups, and kid-focused devices that behave like a phone but are managed by parents.  From there, he broadens the discussion to other retro returns—music players, physical media, and simpler devices—framing the appeal as fewer interruptions, fewer updates, fewer accounts, and fewer subscriptions. Evan contrasts the reliability and immediacy of older hardware with modern “smart” products that can become limited if servers shut down, then balances that with the real accessibility and independence gains smart tech can bring (screen readers, AI tools, rideshare, remote access, and more).  He closes with personal examples of tech he’d happily keep (or go back to), including older operating systems, analog audio setups, call-in security, classic note takers, and a dedicated talking alarm clock—then invites listeners to share their own “what I miss / what I’d keep” tech preferences.  2) Contact Info  Aftersight Feedback: [email protected] | (720) 712-8856 Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer (Aftersight)  3) Show Credits  Host: Evan Starnes Producer: Jonathan Price Network: Aftersight  4) Chapter Markers  00:06 — Cold open: interrupted by the telephone (ironically) 02:28 — Why this topic: listener conversation + research rabbit hole 04:52 — Landlines, screen time concerns, and “landline-like” options 07:17 — “Landline mode” habits and the screen-time mindset shift 09:41 — Music/media nostalgia: iPods, CDs/records, and distraction-free listening 12:05 — Pro: fewer updates and faster “ready-to-go” devices 14:32 — Pro: fewer subscriptions and fewer forced accounts 16:36 — Pro/Con: smart devices can be “bricked”; note on open-sourcing as a fix 19:00 — Pro: remote access and modern convenience (when it works) 21:28 — Accessibility wins: smartphones, rideshare, AI tools, and independence 23:51 — Resilience angle: POTS vs VoIP and why it matters in outages 24:59 — Bridging old + new: adapters that let old phones work with cell service 27:07 — Personal tech preferences: simpler OS, analog stereo, and stable gear 29:26 — Assistive tech nostalgia: classic note takers and “offline-first” tools 31:36 — Alarm clocks and “make me get up” routines 33:38 — Listener call-in/email + closing message: “not everything needs to be smart”

In this welcome-back episode of Blind Level Tech, host Evan Starnes explains the unexpected hiatus that caused several months of episodes to temporarily disappear, sharing honest reflections on burnout, creative fatigue, and the need to recalibrate. Rather than pushing for constant growth, Evan introduces 2026 as a “stabilization year” for BLT — a chance to refine what already works, improve consistency, and rediscover the joy of creating the show.Evan also walks listeners through a small but meaningful update to the show’s intro, retiring the voiceover while keeping the familiar BLT music intact. He invites listeners to help shape the future of the show by offering feedback, ideas, and even tagline suggestions.The episode then shifts into tech coverage, starting with an in-depth accessibility-focused review of a recent Amtrak trip, highlighting strong tactile and Braille labeling on trains, mixed accessibility in sleeper car controls, and significant usability issues with Amtrak’s app and website. Evan also shares a standout accessibility feature from Chicago Union Station, where audible track number announcements made navigation intuitive and efficient.Rounding out the episode is a robust tech news segment, including new features for Meta Ray-Ban and Oakley Vanguard glasses, Southwest Airlines’ integration with Apple Wallet, and a lighthearted Sandwich of the Week inspired by Chicago cuisine. Evan closes by previewing what he’s excited to follow in 2026 — from AI accessibility improvements to autonomous vehicles in Denver. Key Topics & Segments• The BLT hiatus: burnout, reflection, and creative reset• 2026 as a “stabilization year” for Blind Level Tech• Intro update: retiring the voiceover, keeping the iconic music• Listener feedback invitation and open communication• Accessibility-focused Amtrak travel review• Chicago Union Station’s audible track number system• Meta smart glasses updates and new AI-powered features• Southwest Airlines + Apple Wallet accessibility potential• Sandwich of the Week: Chicago-style hot dog with giardiniera• What Evan is watching in tech for 2026 00:00 – Welcome back & explaining the BLT hiatus• 03:30 – Stabilization vs. growth & creative burnout• 04:40 – Intro changes and future BLT direction• 05:01 – How to submit feedback & suggestions• 07:25 – CES thoughts & assistive tech podcast shoutout• 08:50 – Amtrak travel experience (accessibility review)• 12:07 – Sleeper car pros, cons, and tactile design• 16:55 – Chicago Union Station audible track numbers• 18:40 – Meta Ray-Ban & Oakley glasses feature updates• 24:04 – AI music matching & multilingual voice control• 26:26 – Southwest Airlines & Apple Wallet integration• 27:45 – Sandwich of the Week: Chicago-style hot dog• 28:53 – Looking ahead to tech in 2026 & sign-off Notable Tech News Highlights• Meta Smart Glasses• Find My Glasses (location-based)• Hyperlapse and slow-motion video• Adjustable video stabilization• Direct sharing to Instagram & Facebook Stories• Spotify-powered “play a song to go with my view”• Multilingual music controls• Oakley Vanguard-exclusive workout insights and vocal shortcuts• Travel & Accessibility• Amtrak trains praised for Braille labeling and comfort• Amtrak app and website accessibility challenges• Chicago Union Station’s audible track announcements• Southwest Airlines tickets and flight info in Apple Wallet Sandwich of the Week• Chicago-style hot dog with giardiniera• Spicy, crunchy, savory• Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys bold flavors Listener Feedback & Contact InformationWe want to hear from you!• General Feedback: [email protected]• Direct Email: [email protected]• Voicemail Line: 720-712-8856(If emailing Evan directly, please CC [email protected] so your thoughts reach the whole team.) Credits• Host: Evan Starnes• Producer: Jonathan Price• Organization: Aftersight (formerly AINC)

In this episode of Blind Level Tech, Evan sits down with Sam Proulx to dig deep into Fable, a company helping major brands improve web accessibility through real testing by people with disabilities. Sam explains what Fable is, how it started in Canada, and how it grew from a small group of screen reader users into a multinational accessibility testing community that now includes people who use screen magnification, alternative navigation methods (switch control, eye gaze, voice dictation), and more. Sam and Evan talk about why accessibility can’t stop at checkbox compliance, and why real usability and joy matter just as much as meeting standards. Sam shares a helpful analogy: requirements are like building codes for architects—essential, but not enough to create something people actually enjoy using. They also explore how accessibility needs change based on context (banking vs social media vs gaming), and why “fit for purpose” matters. Later, Sam breaks down how companies work with Fable through subscriptions (with monthly requests that don’t roll over to encourage ongoing testing) or project-based engagements for agencies and smaller orgs. He also explains how individuals can join the Fable testing community, what training looks like, how requests are offered, and why the waitlist exists (so testers actually get meaningful paid work). The conversation closes with a strong message about networking, disability employment, and building accessible futures—together with allies. Join Fable’s tester community: makeitfable.com/communityLearn about Fable: makeitfable.com(Mentioned) Community page path: makeitfable.com/community (and “/slash community” as spoken)Aftersight / Blind Level Tech feedback: Email: [email protected]: 720-712-8856 Show Credits Show: Blind Level Tech (Aftersight Original)Host: Evan StarnesGuest: Samuel “Sam” Proulx (Fable)Organization Mentioned: Fable (web accessibility testing and auditing) producer: Evan Starnes (00:00) - — Holiday intro + setting up the episode (01:56) - — What is Fable? (02:33) - — How Fable started (founders + early days) (06:23) - — Expanding the disability testing community (10:35) - — Beyond WCAG: accessible and enjoyable (12:22) - — “Fit for purpose” accessibility (14:35) - — How companies engage Fable (subscriptions + requests) (16:56) - — Project-based testing + agency model (19:23) - — Balancing disability leadership with allies (24:42) - — How to join Fable as a tester (32:14) - — Where accessibility is heading (33:55) - — Wrap-up + networking + disability employment

Episode Overview In this second installment with Samuel Proulx, Evan dives into a spontaneous but incredibly rich conversation about artificial intelligence, accessible software development, gaming accessibility, and the tech setups that empower Sam's everyday work at Fable. This episode picks up during a tangent from last week's discussion — originally meant to be a single interview — where Sam and Evan explore how AI is reshaping workflows for blind creators, programmers, and everyday users. Sam shares meaningful insights about AI as a tool, not a replacement: something that makes hard tasks easier, supports experimentation, and extends the work of human developers rather than taking over. Along the way, Sam breaks down his personal tech stack — from the Orbit 20 braille display to mechanical keyboards, auto-tracking cameras, Microsoft Surface devices, and even the fully modular Framework laptop he tinkers with for fun. Evan and Sam also trade stories about inaccessible software, auto-generated summaries, gaming mods powered by AI, and the practical limitations of note-takers that don't always pick up every speaker fairly. The conversation wraps with a fun bit about using AI for household troubleshooting… including the time Sam repaired his own washing machine with help from a model, and Evan recounts AI correctly identifying dishwasher lights. Part three arrives next week and focuses entirely on Fable’s web accessibility platform, so don’t miss it. Contact Info Questions, feedback, or episode ideas? Email: [email protected] Phone: 720-712-8856 Producer Contact: Evan Starnes: [email protected] 720-826-0569 Chapter Markers 00:00 — Intro + context for part two with Samuel Proulx 02:20 — Tech setups: work vs. personal gear 07:00 — When accessibility software falls short 09:20 — How AI scales developer work & removes monotonous tasks 11:45 — Why AI needs direction: “junior developer” analogy 13:00 — AI for note-taking & why human oversight still matters 15:42 — Riverside summaries, styles, and author voice 16:48 — AI as an assistant, not the boss 18:40 — Closing remarks + teaser for part three

## Summary In this episode of Blind Level Tech, host Evan Starnes welcomes Sam Proulx from Fable, a leading international web accessibility testing company. They discuss Sam's unique upbringing with a blind father who worked at IBM, exploring the evolution of assistive technology and its impact on the blind/low-vision community. The conversation highlights the role of blind individuals in pioneering innovations like text-to-speech and GPS, and the importance of preserving accessibility history. Chapters • 00:02:03 Introduction and Apology for Last Episode • 00:05:10 Introduction to Sam Prew and Fable • 00:08:30 Sam's Early Exposure to Technology • 00:13:00 The Evolution of Assistive Technology • 00:18:00 Challenges in Accessibility Advocacy • 00:23:00 The Role of Blind Innovators • 00:28:00 Conclusion and Future Episodes Contact Info: Guest Contact: [email protected] Feedback for Aftersight: [email protected] voicemail: 720-712-8856 General questions: [email protected] Produced By: Evan Starnes Lead Producer: Jonathan Price An Aftersight Original Podcast

1) Episode Summary This fun, high-energy December episode of Blind Level Tech brings Evan back for the annual Top 10 Tech Gadgets Holiday Special. Evan kicks things off with Christmas music, eggnog confessions, and the joy of seasonal treats before diving into uniquely accessible and creative gifts. He recaps Colorado Gives Day and thanks donors for getting Aftersight to 27% of the $15,000 goal. Then he unveils 10 curated gadgets—from accessible power banks and 32-bit float recorders to cat trackers, drones, soundbars, navigation pouches, and mug warmers—complete with pricing, use cases, and search terms so listeners can easily find them. This episode blends accessibility, tech curiosity, and holiday cheer, helping listeners discover practical stocking stuffers and standout gadgets for the season. 2) Contact Info Guest / Organization Mentions AT Guys — Assistive tech retailer Website: https://atguys.com Colorado Gives Day https://coloradogives.org/organizations/Aftersight Aftersight Contact Information Email: [email protected] Phone: (720) 712-8856 Website: https://aftersight.org Producer Jonathan Price — Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight 3) Show Credits Host: Evan Starnes Producer: Jonathan Price Executive Production: Aftersight Mixing & Post-Production: Aftersight Studios A Blindsight/Blind Level Tech Original Production by Aftersight 4) Chapter Markers 00:00 — Opening & Holiday Season Chat 01:40 — Colorado Gives Day Update 03:15 — Intro to the Top 10 Gadgets List 04:50 — AT Guys Accessible Power Banks 07:00 — Zoom H1 Essential Recorder 08:55 — Navi Hands-Free Navigation Pouch 09:55 — TabCat Tracking System 11:40 — Anker MagGo Power Bank 13:10 — Vizio 200M Soundbar 15:10 — Corsair HS80/HS80 Max Headset 16:40 — Akutani Coffee Mug Warmer 18:35 — Blink Video Doorbell 20:55 — Holystone Indoor Nano Drone 23:00 — Closing Remarks & Holiday Sign-Off

Its time for your mainstream and assistive tech updates for the end of the month. Summary In this episode of Blind Level Tech, host Evan Starnes shares the latest updates in assistive technology, personal experiences with new devices, and insights into accessibility in retail environments. The episode also highlights significant tech news, including updates from Apple and Vispero, and encourages listeners to support Colorado Gives Day. Support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day on December 9. visit the Colorado Gives Website at coloradogives.org Find Aftersight's Colorado Gives page at coloradogives.org/organizations/aftersight Questions or feedback? email: [email protected] leave a voicemail at 720-712-8856 for General inquiries, email [email protected]. Producer: Evan Starnes An Aftersight Original Podcast

On this BLT Bite, Andrew Babbin and Liam Haily walk us through a short demo of Haylo Fi, which you can learn more about by listening to last weeks episode. Andrew shows us how easy it is to get info like your account ballence, as well as other info like the amount of money spent on things like groceries. We also discuss future plans for Haylo Fi, including the ability to build a budget, all by voice. Learn more and explore Haylo Fi by visiting halofiapp.com

summary In this episode of Blind Level Tech, host Evan Starnes discusses the innovative financial technology platform Halo Fi with its developers, Andrew Babin and Liam Haley. The conversation covers their personal journeys, the inspiration behind Halo Fi, and the importance of accessibility in finance. They delve into the unique voice-driven features of the app, its potential to bridge the accessibility gap for low vision users, and the future of AI in finance. The episode concludes with advice for newcomers in finance and AI, emphasizing the importance of taking action and problem-solving skills. Learn more and get involved with Halo Fi at https://halofiapp.com/ Support Aftersight this Colorado Gives Day at coloradogives.org questions or feedback for Aftersight? email: [email protected] Feedback Line: 720-712-8856 website: aftersight.org Producer: Evan Starnes An Aftersight Original Podcast

This week on BLT, we chat with Patrick Long, co-founder of InnoSearch, a platform designed to enhance online shopping experiences for individuals with blindness and low vision. Patrick shares his journey into the tech world, inspired by personal experiences with family members losing their vision. The conversation delves into the importance of usability over mere compliance with accessibility standards, the innovative features of InnoSearch, including AI integration and a co-browse feature, and the future roadmap for the platform. to get started with Innosearch, visit https://www.innosearch.ai/ To try CoBrouse for yourself, visit the Eyes On Success website at eyesonsuccess.net Have questions or feedback for Aftersight? email: [email protected] voicemail: 720-712-8856 general contact: [email protected] Aftersight website: https://aftersight.org/ Producer: Evan Starnes An Aftersight Original Podcast

In this episode of Blind Level Tech, we are honord to speak withh Troy Otillio, CEO of Aira, to discuss the evolution and impact of Aira's visual interpreting services. They explore Troy's journey from Silicon Valley to leading Aira, the challenges and innovations in wearable technology, and the integration of AI in accessibility tools. The conversation highlights Aira's mission to provide independence and accessibility through human and AI-powered solutions, while giving users the choice between human and AI. Learn more about Aira at aira.io Contact Troy at [email protected] Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction and Weekend Recap 00:03:00 Troy Otillio's Journey to Aira 00:09:00 Aira's Mission and Vision 00:15:00 The Role of AI in Accessibility 00:21:00 Wearable Technology and Aira's Innovations 00:27:00 Community Feedback and Future Plans questions or feedback? email: [email protected] voicemail: 720-712-8856 website: aftersight.org producer: Evan Starnes An Aftersight Original Podcast

On this episode of BLT, Evan and Marty Sobo geek out over the latest releases from Apple, including the new M5 chip, and the updated Apple Vision Pro. We discuss whether you should upgrade your old M1 or M2 Mac, and share some thoughts on the future of the Vision pro, and its usability in the blind/low-vision community. producer: Evan Starnes lead producer: Jonathan Price questions or feedback? email: [email protected] feedback line: 720-712-8856 website: aftersight.org general email: [email protected] An Aftersight Original Podcast

Summary On this episode of BLT, we take a look at some of the latest happenings in mainstream and assistive tech, from New Apple updates to some new smart glasses designed for navigation. We share some personal stories, like how Evan’s Air pods survived the washing machine for the second time, and hint at some future episodes. Questions or feedback? Email: [email protected] Voicemail: 720-712-8856 Website: www.aftersight.org Producer: Evan Starnes An Aftersight Original Podcast

This week on BLT, we take a look at Targets new accessible self checkout machines, which are beeing roled out nation wide.Mbr> We explore the technology behind these machines, their accessibility features, and the potential for future improvements. Want to learn more? Check out this article on the Target corporate website. https://corporate.target.com/news-features/article/2025/09/accessible-self-checkout chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction and Tech Updates 00:03:00 Self-Checkout Experiences 00:06:00 Target's Accessible Rollout 00:09:00 Technology Behind Accessibility 00:12:00 Future Improvements and Feedback Producer: Evan Starnes Website: aftersight.org Feedback: [email protected] Feedback Line: 720-712-8856 General Inquiries: [email protected] An Aftersight Original podcast