See Things Differently with HumanWare

In this milestone 10th episode of See Things Differently, Rachel Ramos and David Woodbridge hand the mic to HumanWare’s Braille Product Manager Andrew Flatres for a deep-dive into one of the most exciting innovations in accessibility tech: the Monarch. Andrew is joined by Chris Cooke, Scott Erichsen, and Allison Meloy, three early Monarch users who share how this groundbreaking tactile device is transforming the way people experience Braille and tactile graphics. From first impressions to classroom applications and the “wow” moments of exploring diagrams through touch, their stories highlight what makes Monarch so revolutionary. Recently recognized by Time Magazine as one of the Best Inventions of 2025, the Monarch represents a major leap forward for digital Braille — and for the future of accessible learning. Whether you’re a teacher, tech enthusiast, or just curious about what’s next in accessibility, this conversation will leave you inspired by what tactile technology can achieve. 👉 Read about Monarch on Time.com Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

In this episode of the HumanWare See Things Differently podcast, hosts Rachel Ramos and David Woodbridge sit down with John Taylor and Ed Worrell to explore the world of tactile graphics and the innovative TactileView software. Together, they discuss how tactile graphics can empower students who are blind or visually impaired, the role of TactileView in creating accessible educational materials, and practical ways teachers, braillists, and transcribers can integrate these tools into the classroom. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or technology enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into the importance of tactile learning and the future of accessible design. 🔗 Relevant Links: TactileView: https://store.humanware.com/hca/tactileview-drawing-software.html Wing It: https://www.aph.org/product/wing-it/ Sterling Adaptives: https://sterlingadaptives.com/ OverHere Consulting: https://overhereconsulting.net/ 👥 Guests: John Taylor – Accessibility expert and tactile graphics advocate Ed Worrell – Educator and TactileView trainer Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

Episode Notes In this episode of See Things Differently, hosts Rachel Ramos and David Woodbridge sit down with MarLisa Jacobs and Erin LeBlanc from to talk all things back to school. Whether you’re a parent preparing your child, a teacher getting ready for the classroom, or a student navigating new challenges, this conversation is packed with insights and encouragement. You’ll hear: Practical advice for easing the transition back into routines. Strategies for supporting students with vision loss in and out of the classroom. Tips for fostering collaboration between parents, teachers, and support staff. Personal stories from MarLisa and Erin that highlight the importance of adaptability, advocacy, and building confidence. Tips&tricks with Roger Steinberg on how to find the proper magnifier for your needs Plus, the team shares updates on what’s happening at HumanWare, upcoming events, and how the right tools can make a big difference in school success. Neil Squire (Erin LeBlanc): https://www.neilsquire.ca/ Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

In this episode, we sit down with Shelly Brisbin, an author, journalist, and host of the podcast Parallel. Shelly shares her journey navigating the world of tech as a person with low vision, how accessibility has evolved in the workplace, and what still needs to change. We talk about her career path, the tools she uses every day, and her thoughts on inclusive design. In our Partner's Corner segment, we talk with Kim Nova of Mystic Access about all the various content they have out there. As usual, Rachel and David share cringeworthy stories that happened to them, and we have a tips&tricks segment about how to use the calculator on the Brailliant devices. To contact Shelly Brisbin: Mastodon: Shelly@Zeppelin.flights BlueSky: Shelly.brisbin.net To learn more about her book : https://www.iosaccessbook.com/ To contact Kim Nova: info@mysticaccess.com Website : mysticaccess.com Podcast (subscribe!) : mysticaccesspodcast.com Tutorials: MysticAccessdownloads.com As always, thanks for listening, and don't hesitate to reach out to podcast@humanware.com with anything you want to share with us, ideas for future episodes, or anything else! Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

In this special episode of See Things Differently, the HumanWare team highlights one of the most inspiring events in the blind and low vision community: the Braille Challenge. Join hosts Rachel Ramos, Peter Tucic and David Woodbridge as they sit down with Madeleine Hernandez to explore the impact and excitement surrounding this annual competition that celebrates braille literacy, confidence, and achievement. For comments and feedback, drop us a line at podcast@humanware.com ! Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

Episode Notes In this new episode of See Things Differently, we sit down with Joe Strechay, a trailblazer in the world of entertainment and accessibility. From working on hit shows like Daredevil and All the Light We Cannot See, Joe gives us an inside look at what it takes to bring authentic blind representation to the screen — and why it matters. Joe shares his unique journey as a blind professional in Hollywood, offers behind-the-scenes stories, and explores how inclusive storytelling is changing public perception. Whether you're in the blindness community or simply passionate about media and diversity, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 👤 About Joe Strechay: Joe is a seasoned media consultant who has worked with Netflix, Apple TV+, and other major networks to improve disability representation. Blind himself, Joe is known for his authentic casting work, coaching actors, and ensuring that blind characters are portrayed with depth and accuracy. https://strechay.org/ Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

Episode Notes Notes go hereIn this episode, we explore the powerful connection between libraries, literacy, and accessibility. Scott Norris joins the conversation to share how libraries are evolving to better serve blind and visually impaired readers. From accessible formats and adaptive technologies to the role of literacy in independence and lifelong learning, we dive into how libraries can be inclusive spaces for everyone. We also talk with Michael Nilsson from Instrulog (https://instrulog.dk/) in Denmark about the assistive technology landscape over there! As mentioned in the episode, here is the link (for US citizens) to request physical Braille books: https://www.loc.gov/nls/services-and-resources/braille-on-demand/ As always, email us at podcast@humanware.com with questions, comments and suggestions! Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

Episode Notes For this third episode, we.re talking O&M. But it's also International Woman's Month! Rachel, Peter and David have a chat with Michelle Young, an O&M instructor who is herself visually impaired. Also, a discussion about guide dog versus cane - which is best? Hint: they're both great! Hear also our cringeworthy story of the month, a tip&trick on how to get the most out of your StellarTrek, and upcoming shows where you can meet us. As always, you can email us with your comments and feedback at podcast@humanware.com !

Episode Notes This month is Low Vision Awareness month. Join Rachel, Peter and David as they have a fun discussion with our guest Katelyn MacIntyre, singer extraordinaire, about performing arts, dancing, singing, talk about funny and cringy moments, so much more! Also, hear HumanWare's product manager Roger Steinberg explain some of the terms used in the wonderful world of low vision technology. And finally, Sloan Morris from Innovative Vision Products Inc. talks about how he challenged his low vision into launching a company to help other visually impaired people. If you have ideas for guests or would simply like to reach us, you can do so by emailing podcast@humanware.com ! And also, come see us at CSUN in Anaheim! We'll be at booth 1103 and 1105, and both Rachel and Peter will be there, go say hi! KATELYN MACINTYRE INFORMATION Website: http://katelynmac.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatelynMacMusic/ Her podcast: Scene Change : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scene-change/id1534853776 Blind Performer Fact Sheet : https://nfb.org/about-us/divisions-committees-and-groups/divisions/pad-blind-performer-fact-sheet NFB Performing Arts division: www.NFB-pad.org ROGER STEINBERG INFORMATION Website: www.humanware.com Email : roger.steinberg@humanware.com MAGNIFIER APP LINK: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/humanware-explor%C4%93-magnifier/id6443956466 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.humanware.hwmagnifier SLOAN MORRIS INFORMATION Website: https://innovativevisionpro.com/

Episode Notes Rachel, Peter and David talk with JJ Meddaugh from AT Guys (https://atguys.com/) about the impact of Braille in their lives. Bob Sweetman from Sweetman Systems comes and talks to us about his long history in the AT field. He can be reached by email at bob@sweetmansystems.com or by phone at (818) 893-5887 There's also a lively debate about Windows vs Mac from an accessibility standpoint between our three hosts. Also, hear a few cringe-worthy anecdotes from them! Also, Peter tells us about Duxbury learning tables, available on the BrailleNote Touch Plus. To learn more, go to https://www.duxburysystems.com/documentation/dbtmac12.3/Content/the_menus/menu_document/document_learning_tables.htm And finally, learn about the upcoming shows we will be attending... Come say hi! See you all next month for our February episode, which will be about Low Vision Awareness month! Find out more at https://see-things-differently-with-hu.pinecast.coRead transcript

Announcement for the monthly podcast See Things Differently with HumanWare coming in January 2025!Read transcript