Blind Level Tech – Details, episodes & analysis

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: feedback@aftersight.org
Voicemail: 720-712-8856
Website: www.aftersight.org
Producer: Evan Starnes
An Aftersight Original Podcast ★ Support this 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: feedback@aftersight.org Feedback Line: 720-712-8856 General Inquiries: contact@afdtersight.org An Aftersight Original podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

This week on BLT, we’re back with Gable Mead to talk aboutan exciting part of the blind/low vision gameing community. Gable shares the inception and growth of the Sento Showdown tournaments, highlighting the passion and dedication that fuels these events. We explore the impact of accessible gaming on community building and the exciting collaborations that have emerged. If you’d like to learn more about the Sento Showdown, please check out the official website at https://www.thesentoshowdown.com/ ★ Support this podcast ★

In this installment of BLT, we are talking about how to use Siri to make a phone call with any iPhone. If you have other things you would like to get advice on give us a call at (720) 712-8856. Have a great week! ★ Support this podcast ★

Summary

In this episode of Blind Level Tech, Evan and Kelvin discuss the importance of being prepared for emergencies. They talk about the three components of an emergency plan: the 'Y' (you), the 'O' (options), and the 'U' (universe). They emphasize the need to have a go bag with essential items, such as a phone, hearing aids, and a cane. They also discuss the importance of staying informed about emergency situations in your community and having a plan in place for different types of emergencies. The episode ends with a lighthearted discussion about their favorite sandwiches.

Takeaways

Having a go bag with essential items is crucial for emergency preparedness.
Staying informed about emergency situations in your community is important.
Having a plan in place for different types of emergencies is essential.
It's important to consider your specific needs and accessibility requirements in an emergency situation.
Don't forget to enjoy a good sandwich, even in an emergency!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:31 Discussing Recent Emergencies
06:46 The Importance of a Go Bag
09:31 Staying Informed and Having a Plan
27:51 Final Thoughts and Sandwiches

Thank you for listening to this episode of BLT. If you have any questions call us at (72) 712-8856 or email us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great day. ★ Support this podcast ★

Blind Level Tech, or BLT, is a fun new show dedicated to the use of technology for those who are blind and have visual impairments. We will walk you through the latest and greatest tech from Apple to Microsoft and TVs to kitchen appliances. We will even throw in some good ole dad and tech jokes for good measure. Being blind is hard enough. Your tech experience should not be. ★ Support this podcast ★

Summary

In this episode, Evan and Kelvin discuss emergency situations and the importance of being prepared. They talk about different types of emergencies that can happen at home, such as power outages, fires, flooding, and natural disasters. They also discuss the challenges faced by deafblind individuals in receiving emergency information. The hosts provide tips on staying informed during emergencies, including using weather apps, changing outgoing voicemail messages, and having emergency radios. They also discuss the importance of having essential electronics, such as battery packs, flashlights, and spare batteries, in an emergency kit. Other items recommended for an emergency kit include a utility knife, spare clothes, toiletries, and food rations. The hosts end the episode with their Sandwich of the Week segment.

Takeaways

Different types of emergencies can happen at home, including power outages, fires, flooding, and natural disasters.
Deafblind individuals face challenges in receiving emergency information and should explore haptic devices or other accessible options.
Staying informed during emergencies can be done through weather apps, changing outgoing voicemail messages, and using emergency radios.
Essential electronics for an emergency kit include battery packs, flashlights, and spare batteries.
Other items recommended for an emergency kit include a utility knife, spare clothes, toiletries, and food rations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
04:58 Preparing for Different Types of Emergencies
07:59 Challenges Faced by Deafblind Individuals in Emergency Situations
10:09 Staying Informed During Emergencies
12:18 Essential Electronics for an Emergency Kit
29:56 Emergency Food Options
32:52 Using Rocks as a Cooking Tool in Emergency Situations
33:33 Conclusion

Thank you for listening to this episode of Blind Level Tech. If you have any questions or would like to ask the host something please feel free to contact us at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at feedback @ firstsight.org. Have a great week. ★ Support this podcast ★

Here is the first installment of BLT BITES. This is a new bite-sized show helping those with hyper specific elements of navigating your phone, computer and other tech devices. This episode focuses on Turning On and Off voice over on the iPhone. If you have any other suggestions as to what you would like to hear send them to us at feedback@aftersight.org. Have a great week. ★ Support this podcast ★

Summary

In this conversation, Evan and Kelvin discuss the impact of AI and technological innovations on the blind and low vision community. They explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI, including the loss of natural abilities and over-reliance on technology. They also touch on the controversial topic of vision tech, such as gene therapy and implants, and share their personal perspectives on restoring vision. The conversation concludes with their Sandwiches of the Week segment and announcements about upcoming events.

Takeaways

AI has the potential to empower the blind and low vision community by providing access to information and opening up new opportunities.
It is important to strike a balance between relying on AI technology and maintaining natural abilities.
The decision to pursue vision tech, such as gene therapy or implants, is a personal choice that should consider the risks and potential impact on one's life.
The Sandwiches of the Week segment features the Cali sandwich from Chiba Hut and the Calvin Special from Summerina.
Listeners can participate in the Audio Trekkers Hike and submit questions for Kelvin to answer on the podcast.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weather Update
05:18 The Impact of AI and Technological Innovations
11:28 Balancing Natural Abilities and Artificial Abilities
29:31 Sandwiches of the Week: The Cali and the Calvin Special

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Summary

Kelvin Crosby, the inventor of the SeemeCane, joins the conversation to discuss his recent trip and the exciting developments with the Seemecane. He shares his experience visiting the Louisiana Association for the Blind, where they will be manufacturing the SeeMecanes. Kelvin emphasizes the importance of universal design and accessibility in technology, highlighting the need to prioritize the needs of deafblind individuals. The conversation also touches on the value of tactile buttons and physical interaction in technology. In this conversation, Jonathan, Kelvin, and Evan discuss the shift towards accessible technology and the impact it has on the blind and deafblind communities. They highlight the See Me Cane, a cane that lights up and improves visibility for users. Kelvin shares success stories of individuals who have gained independence and confidence through the use of the See Me Cane. The conversation then transitions to the announcement that Kelvin will be the new cohost of the Blind Level Tech podcast. They discuss the upcoming BLT Bites series, which will provide quick tips and information for older adults. The hosts also share their favorite sandwiches of the week and promote upcoming events like the Aftersight hike and the Game Changers podcast.

Best Quote

Kelvin: "We focus on developing products for deafblind individuals first. Not blind, not deaf, deafblind."

Chapters

00:00 Manufacturing the SeemeCane
16:11 Prioritizing Universal Design and Accessibility
35:36 Sandwiches of the Week
45:55 Upcoming Events

Thank you for listening to this episode of BLT. If you have any questions, make sure you give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at feedback @aftersight.org. Have an amazing week. ★ Support this podcast ★