AI Updates to the Lyriq Assistive Reader deliver Greater Efficiency and Productivity. Welcome Back Curtis Mintrone, Sales and IT Representative at Patriot Vision Industries

Podcast Summary: Patriot Vision Industries has been providing innovative technology solutions to users around the globe for 36 years. In 2022, we highlighted Curtis, along with company President John Palmer, and their just-released Lyriq Assistive Reader, a lightweight powerful scanning product. Join Blind Abilities podcast host Simon Bonenfant as he speaks with Curtis about a new device, called LyriQ AI. This revolutionary device combines...

Go Anywhere with Glide, A New Navigational Device. Meet Amos Miller, Founder and CEO of Glidance

Podcast Summary: Navigating as a blind or visually impaired person can be challenging at times. Glide, a new mobility aid, aims to help you navigate with ease. Using a handle, two wheels, and cameras equipped with Wayfinding technology, Glide works to guide the user around obstacles, provides navigation to a specific route, and much more.  While attending the 2024 National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind in Orlando...

Tech Abilities is Back in the Saddle: Exploring Meta Ray-Bans, Aira’s Access AI, Black Friday, and Some AI Hacks

Podcast Summary: Jeff, Serina, and Cindy reunite in the Blind Abilities Studio, bringing the Tech Abilities podcast back in full force! After a short break, the trio dives headfirst into the latest tech trends and practical insights, starting with Serina’s new Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses—spoiler alert: Jeff has a pair too. From exploring the powerful Access AI feature in the Aira Explorer app, where users can now adjust response detail and...

Wellness Wednesday: From Isolation to Integration – Your Journey, Your Voice

Podcast Summary: In Episode 44 of Wellness Wednesday, hosts Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, bridge the gap between communities we navigate daily. They dive deep into the art of self-advocacy, exploring how personal experiences can transform feelings of isolation into moments of connection and growth. Join them as they unravel how we can bring our unique worlds into harmony, fostering understanding and belonging one journey at...

The Lotus Ring Shines Bright at the Ignite Accessibility Event Presented By the Vista Center

Podcast Summary: In this Blind Abilities episode, CEO Dhaval Patel introduces the innovative Lotus Ring, featured at the Vista Center’s Ignite Accessibility Entrepreneur Pitch Competition. The Lotus Ring, an accessible infrared-operated home control system, enables users to point and manage appliances, lights, and switches without internet or apps. With magnetic attachable switch covers, it simplifies home automation, offering...

Aira Unveils Meta Ray-Ban Integration, Walmart Partnership, and More

Podcast Summary: Jenine Stanley, Director of Customer Success and Engagement at Aira, joins Jeff Thompson on Blind Abilities to share exciting updates. Aira can now be used with Meta Ray-Ban glasses, available in public beta for all users. This innovation expands Aira’s accessible technology offerings, along with other developments like a custom call feature, navigation-certified visual interpreters, and partnerships with Walmart and Vispero....

Preparing for Success: College and Career Insights for Blind and Low Vision Students – Meet Anjie Hall, an Expert in the Disabilities Resource Field

Full Transcript Podcast Summary: Curious about how to navigate college life as a blind or low vision student? Anjie Hall, an expert in disability resources, shares essential strategies for setting yourself up for success. From early connections with disability offices to embracing technology and building a strong support network, Anjie’s journey offers a powerful roadmap. Her insights on self-advocacy, resilience, and preparing for the...

Wellness Wednesday: Affirmations – Positive Fuel for the Tank

Podcast Summary: In Episode 44 of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, dive into the world of affirmations and how they can reshape negative mindsets. Blind Abilities Logo They explore the importance of authenticity, setting realistic goals, and pairing affirmations with actionable steps to boost effectiveness.Discover how affirmations, when tailored to your personal journey, can serve as powerful tools for growth...

Historic Partnership: Be My Eyes and Hilton Transform Customer Service

Podcast Summary: Be My Eyes CEO Mike Buckley joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to reveal an exciting new partnership with Hilton Hotels. Blind and low-vision individuals in North America can now access Hilton’s customer service directly through the Be My Eyes app. Mike shares how this groundbreaking collaboration opens new doors for accessibility and hints at even more innovations on the horizon. Dive into the app today and...

Building Career Paths: Insights for Young Adults from SSB’s Student Career Networking Event

Podcast Summary: State Services for the Blind of Minnesota (SSB) hosted a Student career networking event for blind and low-vision high school and college students. Students connected with professionals from various industries, gaining insights into career opportunities, overcoming challenges, and building successful paths. A special message from the University of Minnesota’s Disability Resource Director emphasized the importance of...