Tom Gustafson reveals how hiring people with disabilities serves as a competitive edge for organizations rather than an act of charity. His insights cover initiating successful disability hiring initiatives, navigating partnerships, and employing metrics to demonstrate the tangible benefits of inclusive practices.
We're thrilled to announce a major upgrade to the Eyes On Success Website (https://EyesOnSuccess.net) that makes finding and playing episodes easier than ever!
A Florida mother says her family was wrongfully ejected from Universal's Epic Universe park after her autistic daughter was accused of shoplifting a keychain. The incident, which led to a temporary ban, stemmed from a misunderstanding as the parents attempted to prevent a meltdown in a crowded store.
Mattel has introduced its first autistic Barbie doll, designed to help children see themselves represented and promote understanding of neurodiversity following its earlier release of a doll with type 1 diabetes.
Angela Frederick's book 'Disabled Power' examines how the 2021 Texas winter storm exposed systemic gaps in emergency preparedness for people with disabilities and highlights their resilience during the crisis.
Here, Dr. Kirk Adams, Executive Director for the ISDI, reflects on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ahead of MLK Day on January 19, 2026, and connects King's call for courageous, collective struggle to ISDI's decade of work advancing equity, dignity, and belonging. He highlights ISDI's long-standing Northwest Diversity Learning Series as a space where leaders confront hard truths, build practical skills, and sustain the uncomfortable but necessary work of naming inequity and turning values into action.
A Florida woman with a disability has sued the state over a new law permitting pregnant women to use temporary disabled parking permits, arguing it undermines accessibility for people with permanent disabilities.
Please join me in giving a warm access welcome to ISDI, who has so very graciously agreed to support the ongoing distribution of Access Information News via Sponsorship. If you enjoy reading Access Information News for free each week, it is sponsors like ISDI that make it possible. The Institute for Sustainable Diversity & Inclusion (ISDI) is a Washington-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2015 to help individuals and organizations build the capability to create workplaces, and communities, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are real, practical, and sustainable. ISDI's work is grounded in evidence-based approaches and a long-term, systems-change mindset that goes beyond one-off trainings or performative efforts. As many of you reading this may be aware, one of our Editors, Dr. Kirk Adams, recently joined the ISDI as Executive Director. ISDI is best known for stewarding the Northwest Diversity Learning Series (NWDLS), a respected DEI education program with more than 26 years of impact, offering virtual workshops, special events, and learning cohorts that equip leaders, HR/DEI practitioners, and employees with actionable skills for inclusive leadership and healthy dialogue across difference. In addition, ISDI provides consulting and curated resources to help organizations strengthen strategy, leadership accountability, and measurable progress toward more inclusive and equitable cultures. Learn more today.
Advocacy is often viewed as a noble effort, yet it imposes significant personal, financial, and professional costs on advocates. These hidden costs, stemming from unpaid labor and professional risks, can undermine the sustainability of advocacy roles, especially when diversity and inclusion efforts are sidelined.
After losing her accessible home and equipment in the Eaton Fire, para athlete Katherine Beattie is rebuilding with an emphasis on accessibility, independence, and adaptive design.
Despite meeting ADA requirements, Aurora City Council continues to face criticism for accessibility issues during public meetings, with residents citing physical and procedural barriers to participation.
Disabled fans are criticizing FIFA for inadequate accessible seating and higher ticket costs at the 2026 World Cup, saying the organization's ticketing policies exclude people with disabilities from fair access.
Atlanta's ADA director highlighted new citywide accessibility projects, including improved curb ramps, sidewalk upgrades, and audible crosswalks, to enhance mobility for residents with disabilities.
Disney is urging shareholders to reject a proposal calling for an independent review of recent changes to its Disability Access Service program, a move that has drawn scrutiny from disability advocates and investors alike.
The article critiques the growing trend of 'disability creep' in elite universities, where rising numbers of students claim disability accommodations, raising questions about fairness and the true purpose of support systems in higher education.
Missouri lawmakers have advanced a series of bills designed to shield small businesses from predatory ADA website accessibility lawsuits, granting them time to fix compliance issues before facing legal penalties.
Zoe Cox, a London emergency medical technician who discovered her deafness during the pandemic, has earned five caps for the England Deaf Women's Rugby Union team and hopes to compete in the upcoming Jamaica test series.
In this inspiring episode of Podcasts by Dr. Kirk Adams, Dr. Adams talks with Jerred Mace of OneCourt about how haptic technology can make live sports dramatically more accessible for blind and low-vision fans. Adams shares his own “hands-on” encounters with the OneCourt device, feeling the raised layout of a basketball court and the vibrations of a synced, fast-moving play, and later experiencing baseball through touch by sensing pitch location, ball flight, and baserunners in real time alongside the radio broadcast.
Want to fulfill a New Year's resolution? Curious to try something new? Join the U.S. Access Board for a webinar on accessible recreation. Whether you love boating, fishing, or playing golf, recreational activities are a part of a healthy life. This presentation will highlight provisions in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) Accessibility Standards that pertain to making boating facilities, fishing piers and platforms, golf and mini golf accessible for people with disabilities. Actual technical assistance scenarios will be used to provide real-life examples and to further knowledge of applying the Standard to recreational facilities.
Georgia officials are seeking to end federal oversight from a 2010 lawsuit that required the state to expand community-based disability services, arguing they have made significant improvements to care and infrastructure.
Colleges across the U.S. are working to improve digital accessibility for visually impaired students as they confront persistent challenges with screen readers and outdated online course materials.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is leading a coalition supporting changes to a federal disability rule, opposing the Biden administration's inclusion of gender dysphoria in the definition of disability under Section 504.
As New York's gubernatorial race intensifies, disability advocates are scrutinizing how Governor Kathy Hochul and her challengers address accessibility and inclusion in their policies and public messaging.
A Florida transportation bill proposes allowing drivers with mobility-equipped vehicles to occupy multiple parking spots or double-park when necessary, offering added flexibility for people with disabilities.
A Denver disability rights organization dropped its lawsuit against RTD after a judge questioned its likelihood of success, following a challenge to fare hikes for the Access-on-Demand paratransit program.
Toronto transit riders with disabilities are calling for improved accessibility after repeated elevator outages have left passengers stranded and forced to reroute trips, highlighting ongoing challenges within the TTC system.
A 71-year-old Queensland man with ALS has chosen voluntary assisted dying after being denied financial support under Australia's National Disability Insurance Scheme, reigniting debate over the nation's inequitable approach to disability and aged care.
A survey by the Royal National Institute of Blind People found that four in five blind or partially sighted individuals struggle with gaps between trains and platforms, leading to injuries and widespread anxiety about rail travel accessibility.
In a candid and motivational conversation, Sugar Ray Leonard shares insights on self-belief, mental resilience, and the transformative journey from a bullied youth to a sports legend. Highlighting his struggles beyond the boxing ring, he emphasizes the importance of humility, faith, and the right support system for achieving a meaningful life.
Molly Burke shares a shocking personal experience that highlights the importance of health awareness. With a blend of humor and authenticity, she navigates her unique journey, engaging the audience in a powerful conversation.
President Trump's administration, led by Education Secretary Linda McMahon, launched sweeping reforms that rolled back federal oversight and restructured key education policies affecting students nationwide.
A national Pew survey found that nearly half of adults with disabilities have been involved in a court case, highlighting systemic barriers and less favorable experiences navigating the legal system.
Museum education programs, especially in New York's leading institutions, continue to serve as vital platforms for accessibility, offering inclusive experiences for visitors with visual, auditory, and developmental disabilities.
Consumer and accessibility advocates are pushing back against FCC proposals to weaken broadband transparency standards, warning that reduced disclosure would harm older adults and people with disabilities.
Blind Paralympian Tim Willis, once the world's fastest blind distance runner, now applies his law degree toward advancing disability rights and promoting accessibility through advocacy and legal reform.
Tom Gustafson reveals how hiring people with disabilities serves as a competitive edge for organizations rather than an act of charity. His insights cover initiating successful disability hiring initiatives, navigating partnerships, and employing metrics to demonstrate the tangible benefits of inclusive practices.
After California quietly ended a disaster-support program for people with disabilities, advocates warn that the move leaves vulnerable populations even more exposed to the growing threat of climate-fueled emergencies.
Drawing parallels between herself and Jane Eyre, the author reflects on how Charlotte Brontë's heroine embodies traits familiar to autistic women, emotional intensity, defiance, and a deep sense of justice.
Odin Frost of Tyler, Texas, made history as the first non-speaking person to voice a character in a syndicated cartoon, using assistive communication technology to challenge traditional views on disability and media representation.
Disability advocates in Toronto are urging the city and province to improve accessibility planning for winter storms, warning that snow buildup and poorly cleared sidewalks, bus stops, and road edges create significant mobility barriers for people with disabilities.
The piece explores how communication barriers faced by Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities reflect a lack of recognition for sign language as a fundamental human right, underscoring the need for linguistic and cultural equality.
Reports highlight multiple cases where ICE agents detained or assaulted disabled individuals, raising serious concerns about the treatment of people with disabilities in immigration enforcement contexts across the U.S.
The proposed changes to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are analyzed, highlighting the balance required to protect small businesses while ensuring digital accessibility rights are upheld. It emphasizes the need for proactive accessibility measures rather than delayed compliance.
While accessibility job postings have increased significantly, the quality and structure of these roles reveal deeper issues within organizations' approaches to accessibility. Many listings reflect unrealistic expectations and a reactive hiring process rather than a commitment to building sustainable accessibility programs.
New regulations from the U.S. Department of Transportation aimed at preventing fraudulent service animals have inadvertently created significant challenges for legitimate service dog teams. The cumbersome paperwork process is not only repetitive but also fails to accommodate individuals with disabilities, resulting in stress and privacy concerns for lawful handlers.
This article outlines strategies for transforming accessibility data into compelling narratives through human-centered frameworks and engaging visuals. It emphasizes the importance of conveying meaningful insights beyond compliance metrics, enabling teams to understand and act on accessibility issues effectively.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET, 12:00 AM GMT
Join the Blind Travel Foundation for an informative Zoom Q&A session covering the 2026 $10,000 Travel Grant program. Learn what makes a strong application, understand eligibility requirements, and get your questions answered directly by the foundation's team.
5:00 PM PT, 6:00 PM MT, 7:00 PM CT, 8:00 PM ET, 1:00 AM GMT
Join TTJ Tech Services for The Ultimate Technology Showdown, a live, debate-style discussion where leading assistive technology experts go head-to-head over platforms like Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Android, and iOS. Streamed live on Zoom, YouTube, and TwitchTV, this high-energy session promises expert insights, lively debate, and audience-driven questions exploring which tech ecosystem truly reigns supreme.
4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET, 12:00 AM GMT
Join the Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey for a free online Tech Talk featuring Kevin Yoo, CEO and Founder of HapticNav, who explores how touch-based navigation is revolutionizing accessibility. Learn how this groundbreaking technology empowers independence, enhances safety, and represents the future of human-machine interaction.
Hosted by the Assistive Technology Industry Association, ATIA 2026 offers a premier space for professionals and educators to explore hands-on AT demonstrations, attend expert-led sessions, and connect with leaders in the accessibility community.
10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 6:00 PM GMT
This live Zoom Q&A session provides applicants with guidance on the Blind Travel Foundation's 2026 $10,000 Travel Grant process. Get insights into crafting compelling proposals and understand key submission requirements before the February 1 deadline.
8:59 PM PT, 9:59 PM MT, 10:59 PM CT, 11:59 PM ET, 4:59 AM GMT
Final day to submit your application for the Blind Travel Foundation's 2026 $10,000 Travel Grant. Don't miss this opportunity to fund a project that benefits the blind and visually impaired travel community.
5:00 PM PT, 6:00 PM MT, 7:00 PM CT, 8:00 PM ET, 1:00 AM GMT
Join Remarkable for a live online Ask Me Anything session about the Launcher Pre-Accelerator Program, which supports early-stage startups creating inclusive solutions that improve the lives of people with disability. Participants can learn about the 12-week program structure, eligibility criteria, and opportunities for mentorship, coaching, and community connection.
7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET, 3:00 PM GMT
Join the NOAT Conference for NOAT 2026: educATe and integrATe, a three-day virtual event dedicated to advancing assistive technology education and integration. Held online via Zoom, this interactive experience includes live presentations, vendor demonstrations, and 1:1 networking opportunities designed to empower participants with innovative tools and strategies for inclusion.
4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET, 12:00 AM GMT
Join Guide Dogs for the Blind and APH ConnectCenter for an informational webinar about Careers & Canine Connections, a weeklong program designed for blind and low-vision young adults ages 18 to 26 to explore career opportunities and the guide dog lifestyle.
7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET, 3:00 PM GMT
TUG is proud to welcome Elizabeth Whitaker of Freedom Scientific for an in depth presentation you will not want to miss. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the leading voices behind the tools so many rely on every day. Elizabeth will walk us through the newest updates to JAWS and ZoomText, including: The redesigned login process that streamlines access and improves security. Page Explorer, a powerful feature that enhances navigation and efficiency and training resources and podcasts that are available to all users, offering ongoing learning and support. This session promises practical insights, expert guidance, and a firsthand look at features that can make a real difference in daily technology use. This is your opportunity to experience cutting-edge tools, ask questions, and connect with others passionate about technology and its impact.
Semi-finalists for the Blind Travel Foundation's 2026 $10,000 Travel Grant will be notified via email. Selected applicants will advance to the interview stage to discuss their travel project proposals in more detail.
Semi-finalist interviews will be held virtually between February 10 and February 21. Applicants should ensure availability for a 30-minute interview to discuss their proposed travel projects and answer committee questions.
The Illinois AER Conference gathers professionals supporting individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Attendees will engage in workshops, presentations, and discussions focused on education, advocacy, and accessibility best practices.
3:00 PM PT, 4:00 PM MT, 5:00 PM CT, 6:00 PM ET, 11:00 PM GMT
In this informative session from Maryland Libraries, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children highlights current trends in online child sexual exploitation and prevention, offering critical insights on issues such as online enticement, sextortion, and the influence of generative AI on child safety.
The Launcher Pre-Accelerator Program from Remarkable, the venture arm of Cerebral Palsy Alliance, is a 12-week, part-time online program that helps founders test and validate ideas in disability, ageing, and health tech. Participants gain expert-led learning, strategic coaching, and connections to a global ecosystem of mentors and investors dedicated to inclusive innovation.
12:00 PM PT, 1:00 PM MT, 2:00 PM CT, 3:00 PM ET, 8:00 PM GMT
In this engaging webinar from the American Printing House, educators will discover the best math learning tools for students who are blind or low vision, explore how these resources align with national standards, and learn how to design targeted instructional plans to maximize student success and Federal Quota resources.
8:59 PM PT, 9:59 PM MT, 10:59 PM CT, 11:59 PM ET, 4:59 AM GMT
Deadline for semi-finalists to submit required materials for the next round of the Blind Travel Foundation's 2026 $10,000 Travel Grant. Ensure all documents and supplemental materials are complete before submission.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
3:00 PM PT, 4:00 PM MT, 5:00 PM CT, 6:00 PM ET, 11:00 PM GMT
In this Maryland Libraries presentation, NetSmartz provides parents, guardians, and community members with practical prevention tools and response strategies to help protect children from online risks and navigate digital safety challenges effectively.
Organized by the Arizona Technology Access Program, the AzTAP Conference delivers in-depth training and showcases innovation in assistive technology. It's an essential gathering for educators, service providers, and specialists seeking to expand their expertise.
Finalists for the 2026 $10,000 Travel Grant will be notified and invited to participate in interviews with the Application Committee. These interviews are the final stage before recipient selection.
The CSUN Assistive Technology Conference in Anaheim gathers accessibility professionals, researchers, and advocates from around the world. It offers cutting-edge presentations, product showcases, and insights into inclusive technology solutions.
Finalist interviews will take place between March 10 and March 20 with the Application Committee. Candidates will discuss their proposed travel projects and demonstrate alignment with the foundation's mission to support accessible travel for the blind and visually impaired.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Hosted by Professor Samuel J. Levine, this two-day hybrid conference from Touro Law brings together judges, lawyers, advocates, scholars, and community leaders to explore how disability rights and inclusion intersect with law, culture, faith, and policy. Attendees can participate in person or online to engage in sessions on employment, education, justice, neurodiversity, and accessibility, with up to 13.5 CLE credits available for full participation.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Hosted by Professor Samuel J. Levine, this two-day hybrid conference from Touro Law brings together judges, lawyers, advocates, scholars, and community leaders to explore how disability rights and inclusion intersect with law, culture, faith, and policy. Attendees can participate in person or online to engage in sessions on employment, education, justice, neurodiversity, and accessibility, with up to 13.5 CLE credits available for full participation.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
12:00 AM PT, 1:00 AM MT, 2:00 AM CT, 3:00 AM ET, 8:00 AM GMT
Hosted by The Ohio State University, the 26th Annual Multiple Perspective Conference explores infrastructures for accessibility, emphasizing access as essential to design, innovation, and civic engagement. This year's program invites presentations on policies and practices that advance inclusion and uphold the spirit of the ADA, with a focus on structures that enable full participation across society.
12:00 AM PT, 1:00 AM MT, 2:00 AM CT, 3:00 AM ET, 8:00 AM GMT
Hosted by The Ohio State University, the 26th Annual Multiple Perspective Conference explores infrastructures for accessibility, emphasizing access as essential to design, innovation, and civic engagement. This year's program invites presentations on policies and practices that advance inclusion and uphold the spirit of the ADA, with a focus on structures that enable full participation across society.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
Join Birdability for the Blind Birder Bird-A-Thon, a free, two-day, community-driven birding experience designed by and for blind and visually impaired birders. Participants are encouraged to explore their surroundings through sound, celebrating access, inclusion, and belonging in birding by ear from anywhere birds sing.
Join Birdability for the Blind Birder Bird-A-Thon, a free, two-day, community-driven birding experience designed by and for blind and visually impaired birders. Participants are encouraged to explore their surroundings through sound, celebrating access, inclusion, and belonging in birding by ear from anywhere birds sing.
Join The GAAD Foundation on May 21, 2026, for the 15th Global Accessibility Awareness Day, a worldwide initiative designed to raise awareness about digital access and inclusion for more than one billion people with disabilities. The day encourages individuals, organizations, and developers to explore how technology can be designed and built to be accessible for all.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
Barrier Free Canada is proud to announce the launch of disability legal support services led by renowned accessibility advocate Donna J. Jodhan.
Donna J. Jodhan brings decades of leadership and hands-on experience in accessibility and disability rights. Her work is uniquely enriched by lived experience and a proven record of success, including landmark achievements against the Canadian Government and several high-profile organizations.
With a deep understanding of legal, technical, and human dimensions of accessibility, Donna offers practical, credible, and authoritative support to lawyers seeking to strengthen their cases, mitigate risk, and advance inclusion. This new service reflects Barrier Free Canada's ongoing commitment to advancing equality, accessibility, and justice for all.
About: Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrieres (BFC/CSB) advocates for the Canadian Parliament to enact a strong and effective Canadians with Disabilities Act (CDA) to achieve a barrier-free Canada for all persons with disabilities.
To this end, BFC/CSB is seeking endorsements from national disability organizations to build a non-partisan community coalition. BFC/CSB would also like to identify point persons from these organizations to act as key contacts.
The steering committee of BFC/CSB has drafted a set of principles concerning a CDA that are drawn from the principles that underpin the provincial disability legislation in Ontario and Manitoba. A CDA is not meant to replace provincial disability legislation. It will complement such legislation and benefit Canadians living in provinces with and without provincial disability legislation. At this point in time, CNIB, March of Dimes Canada, Canadian Hearing Society and MS Society of Canada have endorsed the BFC/CSB principles and confirmed their support for the movement to enact a CDA. There is no individual or organizational charge for membership in BFC/CSB.
Please contact Donna Jodhan, Founder of Barrier-Free Canada, at info@barrierfreecanada.org 📧️ with any questions or to express your organization's support and identify a key contact.
Learn the basics of NVDA. From getting started with the program to customizing the speech to learning helpful shortcuts, Hadley's workshops have you covered.
A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Hadley relies on contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations to fund its programs.
About: The mission of Hadley is to create personalized learning opportunities that empower adults with vision loss or blindness to thrive — at home, at work, and in their communities.
Founded in 1920 by William Hadley, an educator who lost his eyesight later in life, Hadley offers practical help, connection and support free of charge to anyone with a visual impairment, their families and professionals supporting them. With Hadley, you can discover new ways to do things that have become more difficult due to vision loss and connect with a network of peers who "get it." And you don't need to come to Hadley. Hadley's help comes to you; online, on the phone or through the mail.
Since relaunching in July 2020, more than 70,000 people have signed up with Hadley, registering more than 200,000 workshop interactions. And our workshops have 98% satisfaction ratings. We reach all 50 states and more than 100 countries. And more people learn braille from Hadley than from any other organization worldwide.
About: This half-hour weekly podcast and radio program discusses products, services and daily living tips for people with vision loss. It is available through radio reading services across North America, via several internet streaming services, and to everyone else as a podcast. To date, the show has been downloaded in all 50 states in the US and over 100 other countries on all the inhabited continents. Eyes On Success is hosted and produced by Peter Torpey and Nancy Goodman Torpey.
Each episode is basically a success story. Some are human stories of visually impaired people's accomplishments in academics, employment, sports or pastimes. Others are descriptions of adaptive aids that enable visually impaired people to achieve things. These include screen readers, magnifiers, navigation aids, and others. In all cases, the focus is on success.
Eyes On Success has been airing weekly since January 2011. Prior to January 2013 the name of the show was ViewPoints. Other than the name, nothing has changed.
Listening To Eyes On Success
You can listen to Eyes On Success on your smart home device by saying "play the Eyes On Success podcast", subscribe to the podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or listen on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, YouTube or your local radio reading service. Listeners can also follow the show on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter).
Connecting with Eyes On Success
Email: To contact us with questions, comments or suggestions for future shows send an e-mail to hosts@EyesOnSuccess.net 📧️.
Weekly Announcements: If you would like to receive weekly announcements of upcoming episodes, you can join our low traffic "announcements only" list by sending an e-mail to: EyesOnSuccess+subscribe@GoogleGroups.com 📧️.
Email Forum: If you would like to connect with other listeners and share your thoughts about what you've heard on the show, you can join our listener email forum by sending an email to: EOS_Discuss+Subscribe@GoogleGroups.com 📧️
Happy New Year from all of us at Pneuma Solutions!
Welcome back to all returning readers, and if you're a first timer, a special welcome to you!
If this is your first time hearing about us, why not take a look at our product offerings, all especially designed by the visually impaired and with their needs in mind.
Have a hard-to-read inaccessible document? Let Scribe for Documents convert it into several accessible formats in seconds!
How about accessible meeting slides viewable in real-time? Scribe for Meetings is the way!
And Remote Incident Manager is always here to aid in providing the world's most accessible remote support to your Windows and Mac.
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
About: The Institute for Sustainable Diversity & Inclusion (ISDI) is a Washington-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2015 to help individuals and organizations build the capability to create workplaces, and communities, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are real, practical, and sustainable. ISDI's work is grounded in evidence-based approaches and a long-term, systems-change mindset that goes beyond one-off trainings or performative efforts.
ISDI is best known for stewarding the Northwest Diversity Learning Series (NWDLS), a respected DEI education program with more than 26 years of impact, offering virtual workshops, special events, and learning cohorts that equip leaders, HR/DEI practitioners, and employees with actionable skills for inclusive leadership and healthy dialogue across difference. In addition, ISDI provides consulting and curated resources to help organizations strengthen strategy, leadership accountability, and measurable progress toward more inclusive and equitable cultures.
About: The Blind Kitchen is an accessibility-driven culinary brand founded by legally blind chef and educator Debra Erickson. Built to help people with vision loss cook safely and confidently, The Blind Kitchen curates adaptive kitchen tools alongside clear, practical instruction, showing that losing sight doesn't mean losing your place in the kitchen.
Through an intentionally accessible online experience and a growing library of step-by-step demos, tips, and strategies, The Blind Kitchen empowers blind and low-vision cooks (and the people who support them) to reclaim independence, creativity, and joy around food, because independence belongs in every kitchen.
About: The Cooking Without Looking TV Show is an award-worthy, barrier-breaking TV show and podcast created and executive produced by Renée Rentmeester to change the way we see blindness, by showing blind and low-vision cooks doing what they love: preparing delicious meals with confidence, creativity, and humor. Originally launched on public television, the series has grown into a multi-platform experience that features talented hosts and guest cooks who share real-life kitchen strategies, adaptive techniques, and the kind of practical know-how that makes cooking feel possible, enjoyable, and empowering for everyone.
Designed with accessibility at its core, Cooking Without Looking goes beyond what's on the screen. Episodes emphasize clear, descriptive instruction and sensory cues, sound, texture, aroma, and timing, so viewers and listeners can truly follow along, and recipes are shared in ways that support independence. Produced through the Vision World Foundation, the show also connects audiences with resources and community, proving week after week that great cooking isn't about eyesight, it's about skill, curiosity, and the joy of making something wonderful.
At 17, my life changed in an instant. A spinal cord injury left me paralyzed, but it didn't take away my purpose. For over 43 years, I've lived, learned, and served within the disability community. I hold both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work, and my life's work has been centered on helping people navigate crisis, change, disability, and the deeply human questions that follow.
Today, I'm a writer, speaker, and advocate walking alongside individuals and families facing life's hardest transitions, with honesty, faith, and hope. Through books, collaborations, workshops, and storytelling, I don't offer clichés. I offer lived experience, professional insight, and practical wisdom shaped by both the classroom and real life. Whether you're newly injured, caring for someone you love, or standing at a crossroads of your own, my message is simple:
You are more than what happened to you.
Your story is not over.
And you do not have to walk this road alone.
Stay Connected
I'm starting something simple and meaningful.
If you'd like to walk, or roll, with me, I'll be sharing short reflections on life, faith, disability, and purpose, drawn from my own journey and the lessons I continue to learn along the way.
This won't be noise or constant posting, just thoughtful encouragement as we navigate life together.
If this speaks to you, I'd love for you to join me here:
About:Hector Del Valle, MSW, is a bilingual speaker, author, advocate, and certified charitable gifting real estate specialist who has turned more than four decades of life with a spinal cord injury into a mission of hope and empowerment. Paralyzed at 17 and having faced addiction, heartbreak, and cancer multiple times, Hector now uses his story, and his faith, to uplift people with disabilities, especially those who are newly injured, in major life transitions, or feeling stuck. Through his book 'Beyond the Chair: Thriving Through the Transition with God' and related resources, he helps individuals reclaim their purpose, build resilience, and see that their pain can become a powerful part of their calling.
HDV Speaks is Hector's speaking, coaching, and training platform where "faith meets action" to help individuals, organizations, and communities thrive through life's transitions. The organization offers a six-week Thriving Through the Transition course, one-on-one and group coaching, support-group memberships, faith-based workshops (including on disability, relationships, and advocacy), keynote speaking, and collaborative projects such as customized trainings and publishing or podcast partnerships.
You can engage with Hector by visiting HDVSpeaks.org to explore books, courses, services, and packages, or by using the site's contact form or phone number +1 (407) 907-3547 📱️ to inquire about coaching, workshops, speaking engagements, or strategic collaborations.
About: We're building more than a media company — we're cultivating a global movement where purpose drives progress.
What began as a mission to create employment for the 1 in 4 Americans living with disabilities has grown into a dynamic platform at the intersection of advocacy, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Our goal is simple: to amplify the voices, solutions, and stories that are driven by purpose.
At Driven by Purpose, we spotlight purpose-led businesses, breakthrough technologies, and human stories that challenge limits and redefine what's possible. From adaptive innovations to inspiring leaders, we explore how purpose fuels progress and unlocks potential.
But this isn't just about raising awareness — it's about taking action. Through powerful content, strategic partnerships, and accessible platforms, we're building bridges between those who need solutions and those creating them.
Are you part of an underserved community? That could include people with disabilities, especially blindness. How about being paid to offer your perspective or "voice"? Read to the end to learn how to be paid for your opinion. And also influence the development of drugs and other healthcare services. Essentially you'd be providing a voice of the patient.
In the past, I've focused on ocular disease but Rare Patient Voice covers so much more. A recent request sought people who had experience with any of the following diagnoses:
About: The Blind Guide is passionate about helping people thrive with vision loss. My website includes many resources for people losing their vision and their caregivers. Register for my weekly blog post or read one or more of my eBook series, which cover the initial vision loss journey through education, entertainment, and home modifications.
Assistive technology is a key enabler of thriving with blindness. I've worked with emerging technologies to make everyday life more accessible and enjoyable, enabling independent travel, better access to sporting events, your inner musician, and so much more.
My ecosystem also includes resources for jobseekers and employers. The list of jobs someone who is blind cannot do is much shorter than the list of jobs they can do. Ask me about employment programs from cybersecurity to talent sourcing.
For employers, I can connect you with a hidden market of exceptional, resilient talent: people who are blind plus veterans and military spouses.
Able News at The Viscardi Center is a monthly periodical for, by, and about people with disabilities. It amplifies the perspective of a diverse disability community and reports on news, technology, sports, health and wellness, culture, travel, advocacy and opportunities to learn and connect. Visit Ablenews.com to sign up to receive Able News in your inbox monthly. Advertising opportunities in the digital edition and on the website are also available.
About:Able News at The Viscardi Center is a monthly periodical for, by, and about people with disabilities. It amplifies the perspective of a diverse disability community and reports on news, technology, sports, health and wellness, culture, travel, advocacy and opportunities to learn and connect. It is a valuable resource and brings readers disability news like no other source.
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free. https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One:Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two:Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three:Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
About:Dr. Kirk Adams is a visionary leader, transformative speaker, and lifelong advocate for disability inclusion. With over three decades of experience in advancing accessibility and creating opportunities for individuals who are blind or low-vision, Dr. Adams has become a powerful force for change in the areas of leadership, accessibility, and inclusion. His journey — from navigating vision loss as a young child to becoming a recognized thought leader in disability empowerment — uniquely equips him to help organizations understand, integrate, and champion inclusive practices that benefit all.
Dr. Adams is a highly sought-after speaker, known for his engaging and thought-provoking keynotes on disability inclusion, accessible leadership, and the power of resilience. He has spoken at numerous national and international conferences, including corporate seminars, public policy forums, and industry events, where his personal story and professional insights have inspired leaders to rethink their approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. His passion lies in empowering organizations to create environments where every individual — regardless of ability — can thrive.
As a speaker, Dr. Adams brings authenticity, warmth, and a depth of experience that resonates with audiences from all backgrounds. He understands that true leadership is about more than just policy; it's about creating cultural shifts that value each person's unique contributions. Whether he is addressing a Fortune 500 company, a non-profit, or a community group, Dr. Adams' message is clear: inclusion benefits everyone, and together we can build a world where opportunity is accessible to all.
Dr. Adams currently resides in Seattle, Washington, where he continues his advocacy work, builds strategic partnerships, and enjoys life with his family. He is proud to be a part of the movement towards a more inclusive future — one conversation at a time.
About: Founded in 2022, Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 42,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here.Review the most recent issues here.
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In addition to serving as Publisher for Access Information News Aaron also serves as Publisher for the Top Tech Tidbits and AI-Weekly newsletters, PR-Director for the AT-Newswire Press Release News Distribution Service, and President and Senior Project Management Professional for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
As Publisher Aaron oversees the weekly distribution of Access Information News on behalf of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST/MDT) (GMT-7/GMT-6)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News John also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits and AI-Weekly newsletters and is also an attorney-at-law specializing in long-term disability claims for blind and low-vision persons.
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST/CDT) (GMT-6/GMT-5)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News Jenna also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits and AI-Weekly newsletters and runs her own advocacy foundation.
Location: Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia
Time Zone: Australia Eastern Standard Time (AEST/AEDT) (GMT+10)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News David also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits publication and is also the National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor for Vision Australia where he has worked since 1990. Over this time he has assisted people who are blind or vision impaired in their home, education, and work settings to take advantage of the benefits of using assistive and main stream technology.
In the last seventeen years, he has also been involved with evaluating technology for use by people who are blind or vision impaired covering both low and high tech equipment (including Microsoft, Samsung, Google, Amazon, and Apple). David is also one of the key spokespersons for Vision Australia relating to technology.
He has been an Apple Ambassador for Apple Australia since 2009 with a group of other Ambassadors / Apple Distinguished Educators (ADE)'s covering the range of Apple's Accessibility solutions throughout Australia.
David produces a range of podcasts (since 2011) covering Apple and other technologies which are distributed on his own podcast (http://davidwoodbr.podbean.com). In addition, he also has a regular Talking Tech program (since 2013) which can be heard every Tuesday at 4:30 Eastern Summer Time on Vision Australia Radio Melbourne (available online) or via https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio
David also runs a weekly Tech Monday where people can chat about assistive and main stream technology, share information, and any tips and tricks.
David lost his sight when he was 8 years old and had to learn Braille. Since then, he completed high school, went to Sydney University receiving a Social Work degree, spent 4 years drug and alcohol counselling, and then moved into his current job.
As a person who is blind, David believes that as a user of the technology that he recommends to others, that he is well situated to look at the strengths and shortcomings of the assistive technology that he comes across in both his professional and personal life, in particular, mainstream technology that is accessible.
In addition to his weekly contributions to Access Information News and Top Tech Tidbits, David's regularly occurring activities are his weekly tech radio show, bi-monthly exploring tech webinars for Vision Australia, his iSee podcast when something of note grabs his attention, and the weekly Tech Monday chat sessions.
National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor (1990 - Present) Vision Australia 🌐
Live the life you choose. We're here to support all Australians who are blind or have low vision.
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST/PDT) (GMT-6/GMT-7)
IIn addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News Vicki also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits publication and works as a Web Accessibility Specialist / IT Quality Assurance Tester at Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.
Vicki Walton
Editor (2024-Present) Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Founded in 2022, Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 42,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here.Review the most recent issues here. Access Information refers to informational topics that directly affect the lives of people with disabilities. Access Information includes any and all information related to bettering the lives of people who are blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled. Access Information News is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication. Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi. Editors: John Hanlin, Jenna Lang, David Woodbridge and Vicki Walton. Access Information News is a sponsor, reader and advertiser supported publication.
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Article abstracts are intentionally concise. As a result we know that some readers may not always understand all of the items listed because little explanation is given. If a particular article brings up a question in your mind, feel free to ask, and we will try to answer as time and knowledge permit.
