Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Change Makers: A Podcast from APH
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Patrick Henry Hughes | 08 Oct 2026 | 00:28:34 | |
Patrick Henry Hughes, a musician, motivational speaker, DJ and Cast Member of The Dot Experience, shares his journey and his passion for music. He discusses blindness, accessibility, independence and his experience with the University of Louisville marching band, along with what he hopes visitors learn from The Dot Experience. On this episode (in order of appearance)
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Sugandha Gupta | 24 Sep 2026 | 00:30:53 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re continuing our spotlight series featuring the incredible cast members of The Dot Experience. Opening Friday, October 30, The Dot Experience is a new immersive, inclusive museum that invites visitors to explore blindness, braille, accessibility, and the power of human connection. Today, we are learning more about Sugandha Gupta. Sugandha is a textile artist, designer, maker, disability advocate, educator and most importantly, a cast member of The Dot Experience. On this episode
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| Designing The Dot Experience for Everyone | 10 Sep 2026 | 00:40:13 | |
This episode of Change Makers explores the inclusive design process behind The Dot Experience, including prototyping with people who are disabled, creating multisensory experiences, and designing for visitors to experience the museum together. Corey Timpson and Sina Bahram of Prime Access Consulting also discuss APH’s commitment to making inclusion an opportunity, not a constraint, and how The Dot Experience could raise the bar for accessible design. | |||
| Cast Member Spotlight: Anthony Ferraro | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:17:42 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re continuing our spotlight series featuring the incredible cast members of The Dot Experience. Opening Friday, October 30, The Dot Experience is a new immersive, inclusive museum that invites visitors to explore blindness, braille, accessibility, and the power of human connection. Today, we are learning more about Anthony Ferraro. Anthony is a motivational speaker, skateboarder, content creator, most importantly, a cast member of The Dot Experience. On this Episode
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Marcus Engel | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:32:02 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re continuing our spotlight series featuring the incredible cast members of The Dot Experience. Opening Friday, October 30, The Dot Experience is a new immersive, inclusive museum that invites visitors to explore blindness, braille, accessibility, and the power of human connection. Today, we are learning more about Marcus Engel. Marcus is a professional speaker, author, consultant, podcaster, professor, and, most importantly for us today, a cast member of The Dot Experience. After our conversation with Marcus, we’ll take you inside The Dot Experience as we share highlights from a recent preview event where attendees of the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) International Conference toured the museum and experienced a sneak peek of the progress, including the factory tour. On this Episode
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Christine Ha | 23 Jul 2026 | 00:29:35 | |
In this episode, we spotlight acclaimed chef, author, and restaurateur Christine Hà, whose remarkable journey from losing her vision to becoming the first blind winner of MasterChef has inspired millions. We'll explore how her passion for cooking began and how she redefined what is possible in the culinary world. Christine also shares what it means to be a Cast Member of The Dot Experience, helping bring stories of blindness, resilience, and innovation to life for future visitors. Then, in our monthly Tech Takeaway, we'll preview the August Monarch update and highlight two exciting new programs that will soon be available to users. On this episode
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| Cast Member Spotlight: George Stern | 09 Jul 2026 | 00:25:40 | |
On today’s episode, we’re continuing our series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience. The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening this October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or low vision, each sharing authentic stories. The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, highlighting the many roles blind individuals hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives. And today, we’re learning about George Stern. He’s a research assistant at the University of Mississippi and was just accepted as a doctoral candidate at Boston College. On this episode
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| Celebrating Helen Keller's Birthday | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:26:19 | |
On this episode, celebrate the birthday of Helen Keller by highlighting her lasting impact and legacy. Justin Gardner sits down with Tony Stephens to share fascinating stories and insights about Keller’s life, achievements, and influence as a trailblazer for people who are blind or have low vision. The episode also features the monthly Tech Takeaway, where Michael Dennis provides a closer look at Wordstock, an app designed to support literacy and accessibility. On this episode
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Dan Mancina | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:18:09 | |
On today’s episode, we’re continuing our series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience. The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening this October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or low vision, each sharing authentic stories. The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, highlighting the many roles blind individuals hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives. And today, we’re learning about Dan Mancina. Not only is he a Cast Member for The Dot Experience, he is also a skateboarder… and today we get to hear his story. On this episode
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Chris Downey | 28 May 2026 | 00:43:01 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re continuing our series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience. The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening in October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or low vision, each sharing authentic stories. The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, highlighting the many roles individuals who are blind or low vision hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives. On this episode, learn about Chris Downey. Chris is an architect, planner, and consultant who lost his sight entirely in 2008 following surgery to remove a brain tumor. Not only is he a Cast Member for The Dot Experience, he is also the Founder and owner of Architecture for the Blind. After his interview, enjoy our monthly Tech Takeaway where you'll learn five Monarch tips to keep you engaged over the summer. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| ADA Title II Ruling: What it Means | 14 May 2026 | 00:41:40 | |
On this episode, we are diving deeper into the recent ADA Title II ruling. This ruling impacts your experience when visiting websites, apps, and other digital content.
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| Cast Member Spotlight: Kathy Martinez | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:36:10 | |
On this episode, we’re kicking off a new series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience. The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening in October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or low vision, each sharing authentic stories. The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, all highlighting the many roles blind individuals hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives. This month's Cast Member Spotlight highlights Kathy Martinez. After the interview with Kathy, you’ll hear from Jennifer Wenzel and Michael Dennis with this month’s Tech Takeaway. They’ll share information about the recent patch update for the Monarch. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| Building Braille Futures: Games and Books | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:32:41 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re exploring how braille is helping shape the future. From a fun new braille word game on the Monarch, to inspiring programs like Braille Tales and the American Action Fund for Blind's Braille Books Program that provide braille books to children from birth through age 17. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| 2026 CES Review Part 2 & Tech Takeaway | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:32:39 | |
On this episode we’re continuing our journey through the Consumer Electronics Show. Then, we’ll wrap up with our monthly Tech Takeaway, where we’ll explore six new apps featured in the recent 1.4 update. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| 2026 CES Review Part 1 | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:41:22 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re heading to Las Vegas for the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show, better known as CES, where the future of technology is on full display. We’re talking cutting-edge, innovative, and game-changing tech, with a special focus on what’s being developed for people who are blind or have low vision. After that, we'll turn our attention to the Abacus Bee. Held the first weekend of March, this exciting competition brought nearly 30 students from 10 different states together to put their mental math skills to the ultimate test. The focus? Speed. Precision. And serious number power. Before the competition began, I caught up with a few of the students to hear how they were feeling, and what it took to prepare for this big moment. On this episode (in order of appearance)
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| Making Math Accessible & Monarch 1.4 Updates | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:42:15 | |
On this episode of Change Makers enjoy an episode filled with innovation, insight, and practical tools to support learning and accessibility. Enjoy a close look at an exciting new release from APH Press... a book designed to make math more accessible, engaging, and achievable for all learners. After that, we’ll shift our focus to technology with our monthly Tech Takeaway. This segment keeps you up to date on the latest tools and features designed to enhance your experience. This month, we’re diving into the Monarch 1.4 update, highlighting new features, improvements, and practical tips to help you get the most out of the platform. At the end of the episode, hear about the recent Braille Challenge. Hear from a few participants before the challenge began. On this episode (In Order of Appearance)
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| What’s New, What’s Improved: APH Products | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:38:07 | |
On this episode of Change Makers enjoy a closer look at APH’s newest and modernized products. Hear from product experts about tools like BOP-K, Grid and Go, and Braille Bridge, all crafted to boost braille and tactile literacy. Discover how these innovations are changing the way learners engage with accessible materials. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| 2025 Year in Review & 2026 Outlook: Part 2 | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:36:22 | |
The conversation continues with APH’s leadership team as they reflect on the challenges and momentum of 2025 and look ahead to a pivotal 2026. Hear leaders discuss the growing urgency of digital accessibility in education, the expansion of the Monarch platform, the rise of eBraille, and the upcoming opening of The Dot Experience as a major public-facing milestone. The conversation highlights resilience, courage, and a recommitment to APH’s mission amid rapid technological change. Hear personal reflections, including Craig Meador’s thoughts as he prepares for retirement and the importance of continuing to push forward rather than pulling back. We wrap up with a Tech Takeaway focused on Monarch’s one-handed mode, showcasing how inclusive design expands access for a wider range of users.
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| 2025 Year in Review & 2026 Outlook: Part 1 | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:23:37 | |
On this two-part series, we’re talking with APH’s leadership about the moments that defined 2025. The wins, the challenges, and everything in between. Plus, we’ll take a look at what’s coming next as we head into 2026 On this episode (in alphabetical order)
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| All About Be My Eyes: Part 2 | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:36:36 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re diving deeper into the world of Be My Eyes. Hear directly from the creator of this groundbreaking app and discover how it can help you navigate and troubleshoot your everyday tech gadgets with confidence.
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| All About Be My Eyes: Part 1 | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:33:04 | |
On this special two-part episode Change Makers, hear from the creator of the innovative app, Be My Eyes. Hear how it originated, early feedback, and what’s next for the groundbreaking app. On this episode
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| New Guide Dog, New Partnership | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:39:50 | |
On this episode, we explore the remarkable and personal journey of receiving a new guide dog, a process that goes far beyond simply picking up a companion. Gain insight into what happens for the dog and partner, the intensive training both undergo, and the emotional transition that comes with building trust and teamwork. On this podcast
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| Annual Meeting 2025 Recap & Tech Takeaway | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:50:15 | |
On this episode of Change Makers go inside the 2025 Annual Meeting held at the Louisville Marriott Downtown. For over a century, this gathering has brought together leaders, educators, and innovators in the field of blindness and low vision. You’ll hear firsthand from presenters, award winners, and attendees about the highlights, breakthroughs, and moments that made this year’s event unforgettable. Stick around after the recap for our monthly Tech Takeaway, where we show you how to personalize your Monarch device. On this episode (in order of appearance)
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| Inside The Dot Experience | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:29:40 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, step into The Dot Experience. We're live from construction site for a press conference celebrating a major milestone in the construction and a special announcement. Speakers
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| All About CJ Threads | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:29:54 | |
On this episode, learn about CJ Threads and how it helps students learn Python code. After that, Tech Takeaway discusses an exciting new feature now available on the Monarch. On this episode
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| Changing with the Times: Product Modernizations | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:25:34 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we’re diving into some exciting updates. Every year, a few APH products get a bit of a makeover — modernized to better meet the needs of today’s users. We’re going to explore which products have recently been modernized, what’s new, and why those changes matter. On this episode (In Order of Appearance)
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| Changing Lives with The National Prison Braille Network | 28 Aug 2025 | 00:27:29 | |
On today’s episode, we explore the incredible impact of the National Prison Braille Network—a groundbreaking initiative that’s transforming lives by empowering individuals to produce braille materials for students who are blind or low vision. Discover how this program fosters rehabilitation, literacy, and opportunity both inside and outside prison walls. Then, stick around for our Tech Takeaway, where we break down everything you need to know about updating your Monarch device. On this episode (in order of appearance)
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| eBraille & Elements: What’s New with the Monarch | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:34:43 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we are continuing our conversation about the Monarch, this time to learn about eBraille, and what science aspect is being added to the device. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| Bringing JAWS to Monarch: What It Means for Users | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:27:18 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn what's being done in preparation for JAWS to launch on the Monarch. JAWS is expected to arrive on the Monarch in the fall of 2025. Interviews in order of appearance
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| Wing It: A Monarch Feature | 10 Jul 2025 | 00:26:59 | |
On this episode of Change Makers learn about Wing It - a groundbreaking application for the Monarch and iOS devices that empowers users to create tactile graphics on the fly. Wing It is available in the Apple store, search for "Monarch Wing It" or you can download it here. The next episode of Change Makers will continue this discussion about programs and applications on the Monarch. Additional Information (In Order of Appearance)
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| How Changes in Washington Can Impact You | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:43:40 | |
On this episode, learn what's going on in Washington, D.C. to hear how changes coming out of our nations’ capitol can impact you. After that, enjoy a Tech Takeaway with quick tips on using the Monarch. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| Tools That Expand Access to Braille | 12 Jun 2025 | 00:22:08 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn about a cool product that allows individuals who are blind or low vision to turn their Perkins Brailler into a BlueTooth keyboard. After learning about Paige Connect, hear the latest from Braille Tales and what books are on the way. On this Episode (In Order of Appearance)
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| APH Blind Musicians Collection | 22 May 2025 | 00:20:07 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn about the APH Blind Musicians Collection and the beneficial services that the wonderful READS librarians provide. Participants (In order of appearance)
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| Educational and Rehabilitation Aspects for CVI | 21 May 2025 | 00:41:30 | |
On this episode we are learning about educational and rehabilitation aspects for children and adults with CVI. Learn why CVI intervention is so critical and what APH products can help those who have been diagnosed.
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| International Efforts in Blindness | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:37:16 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, we are learning about a Fulbright Scholar’s trip to Lagos to address critical gaps in services and training. On this episode (In order of appearance)
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| APH Services and Events that Help Prepare Children for a Successful Future | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:29:36 | |
On this episode, learn about the Monarch Student Pilot Program and the Abacus Bee. Now open for nominations for the fall of 2025, the Monarch Student Pilot Program will be accepting students entering the sixth to 11th grade, who are able to read and write braille and who have experience with Refreshable Braille technology. The APH Abacus Bee is a fun and engaging competition designed to ignite a passion for mathematics in students who are blind or have low vision. By allowing the use of various formats like print, braille, UEB math, or Nemeth code, the competition ensures that participants can use methods that suit their individual learning styles. In this podcast (In Order of Appearance)
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| Helen Keller Time Capsule Recordings | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:42:56 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn more about the special discovery that features Helen Keller giving a radio address. On this Episode
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| Physical Activity and Its Impact on Visual Phenomena | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:23:46 | |
On this episode of Change Makers learn about the possible relationship between physical activity and sleep levels, and how they impact visual phenomena. After that, learn about APH's Memory Puzzles. On this episode (In Order of Appearance)
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| Cool Technology at CES 2025 | 27 Feb 2025 | 00:43:55 | |
On today’s episode, we are exploring the latest technology, perfect for individuals who are blind or low vision at the Consumer Electronics Show. On this podcast
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| Rideshare Experiences and How They Can Be Improved | 13 Feb 2025 | 00:36:26 | |
On this episode, we are talking about experiences in securing rideshares and what you can do should you experience problems. On this episode (In Order of Appearance)
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| The Dot Experience 2025 Update | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:39:09 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn the latest about The Dot Experience and what's new for Connect the Dots.
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| Monarch Programs and Resources for Young Adults | 09 Jan 2025 | 00:28:33 | |
On this episode, we are talking about some exciting programs and resources for the Monarch. This is exciting because these programs help expand the Monarch’s reach for older children and young adults.
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| 2024 Recap and a Look Ahead | 12 Dec 2024 | 00:39:02 | |
On this episode we are looking back at 2024, and talking about what’s on the horizon for 2025.
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| 2024 Holiday Gift Ideas | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:24:44 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, get ideas for the perfect holiday gift!
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| 2024 APH Product Updates | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:38:35 | |
On this episode of Change makers, learn about APH's newest products. Then hear an update about the next National Coding Symposium and Day of Code. After that, learn about the most recent Connect the Dots event.
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| Solutions to Eye Pressing | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:28:44 | |
On this episode of Change makers, learn about solutions to Eye Pressing. Learn about what it is, how a bracelet can help subdue the need, and hear the personal story of how a similar bracelet helped with another urge.
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| 2024 APH Annual Meeting | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:35:28 | |
APH’s Annual Meeting is always a great time to meet colleagues, make connections, and learn tips and tricks from others in the blindness field. Hear from various attendees, award winners and InSights Artists on this recap of Annual Meeting.
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| Careers in STEM | 26 Sep 2024 | 00:36:47 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn about the wide world of careers in STEM. The opportunities are truly endless. After that, hear an update for the next Connect the Dots event.
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| The Evolution of Braille Displays | 12 Sep 2024 | 00:53:36 | |
On this episode of Change Makers, learn about how far braille displays have come, and where they're going.
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| How it's Made: Braille Books | 22 Aug 2024 | 00:29:12 | |
On this Change Makers episode, learn how braille books are made. Hear about the process that goes into every book that is made from start to finish. After that, learn what’s new with the Reach and Match products.
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