Freedom Scientific Training Podcast

Do you use Google Sheets with JAWS? Want to learn how to navigate, format, and organize data more efficiently? Then “Ten Tips for Increasing Productivity with Google Sheets and JAWS” is the episode for you. Objectives: In this session we provide an overview of Google Sheets, plus show you how to: Turn on accessibility settings Create/rename a new spreadsheet, plus navigate an existing spreadsheet Apply formatting to cell data Insert a function Sort and filter data Verbalize column and row titles Navigate among multiple spreadsheets Access a list of Google-specific keyboard commands Enable compatible keyboard shortcuts from other spreadsheet applications Search the menus for a command

Are you ready to start using artificial intelligence with JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion but not sure where to begin? Join us as we: Define key AI terms like prompts, queries, models, and more—so you can understand the language of AI without the jargon. Demonstrate real-world examples of how to train and guide AI tools to complete everyday tasks efficiently. Walk through practical workplace scenarios, such as drafting a professional email, creating audience-specific documents, and extracting and analyzing key data from large text files into Excel spreadsheets. We also show you how you can specifically benefit from using Freedom Scientific’s AI features to learn JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion, plus other apps, describe images, and more.

In this episode of the Freedom Scientific Training Podcast, Ron Miller walks through everything you need to know about managing settings in Microsoft Edge with JAWS. Learn how to sign in and out of your Microsoft account, sync your favorites, passwords, and browsing history across devices, and add multiple profiles for work or personal use. Ron also demonstrates how to adjust individual sync options, clear your browsing data (without losing what you need), and navigate Edge’s settings efficiently using JAWS keyboard commands.

Portable Document Format (PDF) files are commonly used to share information across multiple platforms and are often required in school and employment settings. Objectives: We’ll provide an overview of PDFs, discuss multiple ways to access, read, and interact with them, plus show you how to: Set the default application for opening PDFs Set Adobe Reader accessibility settings Process an untagged document Search for text in a PDF Change reading order on-the-fly Open a PDF in Word Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker and Rachel Buchanan

Learn how to navigate Amazon Kindle with JAWS for Windows. This episode covers opening the Kindle for PC app, managing your library, using search and filters, downloading books, and reading content with JAWS commands. Plus, discover tips for using the Kindle Store, syncing devices, and creating a smoother reading experience with both speech and Braille.

In this episode, Liz and Rachel walk you through 10 essential tips for using Google Docs more efficiently with JAWS. Learn how to adjust accessibility settings, navigate documents with ease, create and rename files, use Find and Replace, get dictionary definitions, format text, manage tabs, and use JAWS Quick Keys for streamlined editing. Whether you're new to Google Docs or just looking to improve your workflow, this episode is packed with practical insights to help boost your productivity. Learn more and access additional training resources at FreedomScientific.com/Training

In this episode, we highlight the newest features and enhancements in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion A key update across all three products is support for time-based Software Maintenance Agreements (SMAs), which let users run any version of the software released within their SMA period—offering more flexibility for perpetual license holders. For JAWS and Fusion users, a brand-new Label Manager simplifies managing custom labels for inaccessible web elements. The AI Labeler also gets smarter—suggesting and saving updated labels automatically. Spanish-speaking users benefit from MathCAT, now the default math interaction tool, offering better speech and Braille support for math content. Fusion’s Live Text View now supports Navigation Quick Keys, enabling faster navigation through web pages, documents, PDFs, and emails. ZoomText and Fusion users can also try out DirectX 11 support through the Early Adopter Program, bringing improved performance, better multi-monitor support, and reduced resource usage. For ZoomText users specifically, this release brings improved compatibility with Google Docs, more accurate behavior in Outlook, and smoother cursor tracking in web and document environments. Additional updates improve AppReader, Reading Zones, and magnification stability. We also cover wide-ranging fixes and enhancements across Google Suite, Office apps, Braille displays, Visual Studio Code, and more. Whether you’re a screen reader user, a magnification user, or both—this update delivers meaningful performance improvements and accessibility enhancements across the board.

Learn how to save time and edit documents more efficiently using the Find and Replace feature in Microsoft Word with JAWS. In this episode, Ron Miller walks you through practical examples—from replacing single and multiple words, to inserting special characters like ñ, to using the built-in thesaurus to find the perfect synonym. You'll also discover handy JAWS tips like using the clipboard viewer and jumping to specific pages in long documents. Whether you're a student, professional, or just want to sharpen your editing skills, this episode offers step-by-step guidance to boost your productivity with JAWS.

In this episode, we provide an overview of the OneDrive desktop app, and show you how to sort files, set folder options, access OneDrive settings, and more.

Innosearch offers an online shopping experience that makes it easy to shop for and purchase products from many popular retailers all on one website. Join us and members of Innosearch as we discuss this accessible platform.

In this episode, Liz shows you how to use PlaceMarkers in JAWS to mark locations and select text in Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and on web pages. You will learn about temporary versus permanent PlaceMarkers and different scenarios where using them can increase productivity and proficiency.

In this episode, Ron Miller from Freedom Scientific’s training team highlights key updates in the May 2025 releases of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. Learn about the new Home and Professional subscription plans, major MathCAT enhancements for speech and Braille math accessibility, UEB math support, and improved navigation options. Ron also demonstrates how to use the new AI-based UI Labeler, enhanced split Braille features, and Live Text View in ZoomText and Fusion. Whether you're a student, professional, or accessibility enthusiast, this episode guides you through the most impactful new features and how to try them out.

Whether you’re new to Windows 11 or upgrading soon, this episode offers ten essential tips for navigating the new environment using JAWS. Join Liz and Rachel as they demonstrate how to manage notifications, set focus sessions, access system settings, create desktop shortcuts, pin apps to the Start menu, and more. You’ll also learn how to use File Explorer’s updated toolbar, change default applications, and manage running tasks efficiently. This episode is packed with practical guidance to help screen reader users feel confident in Windows 11.

In this episode, we explore how to effectively manage your browsing history in Google Chrome using JAWS. Learn how to access, navigate, and search your browser history, as well as how to delete it selectively using advanced settings. We also dive into browser history display quirks, explain how to use table navigation and link lists with JAWS, and demonstrate how to search directly from the Chrome address bar. Plus, get an introduction to Chrome extensions that enhance history management, including how to install, manage, and toggle them. Whether you're cleaning up your digital trail or just trying to find that one page you visited last week, this episode has the tools and tips you need.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Insert J Club—a new community initiative from Freedom Scientific designed to bring users of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion even closer to the people behind the technology. In this special launch event, team members share personal stories of how assistive technology has shaped their lives and careers, from education and employment to hobbies and personal passions. You’ll also learn what the Insert J Club is all about, how you can get involved, and what exclusive benefits await members. Join the Insert J Club today at www.freedomscientific.com/insertjclub/

In this episode of 20 Minute Tech Tips, Liz demonstrates how to use the JAWS Text Analyzer to proofread documents more effectively. Learn how to detect and correct common inconsistencies like double spaces, stray punctuation, unmatched parentheses, and formatting issues when working in Microsoft Word. Liz walks through enabling and customizing Text Analyzer settings, using quick keyboard commands to navigate errors, and applying Text Analyzer to finalize documents and blog posts. Plus, discover how to toggle the feature on and off for a streamlined proofreading experience. Stay tuned at the end for updates about the Insert J Club and upcoming Freedom Scientific training events!

Join Liz and Rachel as they dive into six essential tasks in the new Outlook experience, including searching for messages, working with attachments, spell checking, flagging emails, and managing signatures. Whether you're transitioning from classic Outlook or exploring new features, this episode offers step-by-step guidance and JAWS tips to streamline your email workflow.

In this episode, Ron Miller from Vispero provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the Freedom Scientific Licensing Portal for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion annual licenses. Learn how to activate your software, set up your portal account, register a new device, and manage or transfer licenses between computers. Whether you're a new user or need a refresher on handling subscriptions, this hands-on guide offers step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your assistive technology is always ready to go. For additional training and resources, visit freedomscientific.com/training.

In this episode of 20 Minute Tech Tips, Liz and Rachel introduce exciting new enhancements to FSCompanion—Freedom Scientific’s AI-powered learning tool for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. Learn how to open FSCompanion using Voice Assistant and how to ask questions with your voice using the new Dictate button. Whether you're brushing up on keyboard commands or navigating Microsoft Office apps, FSCompanion makes learning more accessible than ever. Plus, hear about the new Insert J Club and upcoming events!

In this episode, Liz and Rachel dive deep into using the OneDrive desktop app with JAWS. Whether you're organizing files, creating folders, or collaborating with colleagues, this episode will guide you step-by-step through best practices for managing your OneDrive environment efficiently. You'll learn how to customize File Explorer views, use key commands for navigation, rename or move files, and leverage version history to recover lost changes. Plus, we’ll show you how to securely share files both internally and externally—with the right permissions. Don’t forget to check out the free Insert J Club for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion users at freedomscientific.com/insertjclub for exclusive training content and community perks!