The Blind Life Podcast

In this exciting episode of The Blind Life, Sam is joined by InnoSearch AI and Be My Eyes representatives to announce a groundbreaking new partnership that will revolutionize accessible shopping for the blind and visually impaired community. InnoSearch AI is a screen-reader-optimized shopping and travel platform offering access to over one billion products and services. Thanks to their collaboration with Be My Eyes, users can access InnoSearch directly from the Be My Eyes app, making the experience even more seamless and convenient. If you're blind or have low vision, this partnership could unlock new levels of independence, savings, and confidence when navigating the online world. Learn more about InnoSearch AI and sign up for a free account + $10 shopping credit: ► https://innosearch.ai/r/nRhfYt Download Be My Eyes for iOS, Android, or Windows: ► https://www.bemyeyes.com/

In this video, we're diving into all the latest updates to the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses for 2025, including two game-changing features that just rolled out in April. Whether you're new to the Meta glasses or a longtime user, these updates bring some major quality-of-life improvements—especially for those of us in the blind and visually impaired community. I walk through how features like real-time object recognition, hands-free translation, Audible audiobook streaming, and enhanced Spotify voice controls are improving daily life. We also talk about international expansion for music app compatibility and the upgraded AI voice options—yes, even celebrity voices like John Cena! These updates are a huge step forward in accessibility and usability, and they're already making tasks like traveling, shopping, and reading much easier for many of us. For full details, demos, and my thoughts on how this technology fits into our lives as blind and visually impaired users, watch the full video. Don't forget to check out my accessibility-themed t-shirt designs, available through the link below or at [TheBlindLife.net](https://www.theblindlife.net). ✅ Like the video ✅ Subscribe to the channel ✅ Hit the bell so you don't miss future updates ✅ Explore channel memberships for exclusive perks and monthly Zoom calls Thanks for watching and supporting The Blind Life! #TheBlindLife #MetaRayBan #AssistiveTechnology #SmartGlasses #BlindTech #Accessibility #LiveAI #WearableTech #VisuallyImpaired #InclusiveDesign

The BlindShell Classic 3 is here. This latest version of the popular accessible phone for the blind and visually impaired comes packed with major upgrades, including a touchscreen for select apps, a faster processor, and a brand-new AI assistant, Luna. Plus, we're diving into Tandem, the exclusive BlindShell app that makes communication easier than ever. New Features: - Touchscreen support for select third-party apps - Luna AI Assistant for voice commands and general knowledge - Tandem App for messaging, video calls, and remote support - Upgraded performance with 3GB RAM and 32GB storage - New design and colors (Golden Sand and Ocean Blue) If you're looking for an accessible, easy-to-use cell phone with physical buttons and a simple interface, this might be the perfect choice. Watch the full review to see all the features in action. Get yours here: ► https://www.blindshell.com/ Check out my BlindShell Classic 2 review: ► https://youtu.be/5r9V_UsJ6ng?si=2Y9Bl3QOq27lG7GR #BlindShellClassic3 #AccessibleTechnology #AssistiveTech #BlindLife #LowVision #VisuallyImpaired #AdaptiveTechnology #TechForAll #AIAssistant #TandemApp

In this heartfelt episode of "The Blind Life Podcast," we discuss the often-overlooked challenges faced by blind and visually impaired individuals at social events. From the struggle to recognize faces and read body language to the emotional weight of feeling invisible, we explore the complexities of navigating social spaces without sight. This anonymous Facebook post highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and small gestures that can make a significant difference. Tune in to hear personal stories, practical advice, and inspiring messages of resilience and connection. #BlindCommunity #VisuallyImpaired #SocialIsolation #Empathy #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #Connection #Resilience #SeeingBeyondSight

Welcome to The Blind Life Podcast! In this exciting episode, we're joined by Drew Crook, an accessibility architect at Paramount Global. Drew is at the forefront of making streaming platforms like Tubi TV and Paramount Plus more accessible to everyone.  Drew shares his personal journey living with a vision impairment, and how he thrives in his career with the support of his third guide dog. We dive deep into his experiences, from the hiring process to the reasonable accommodations that help him excel at his job. You'll also hear some eye-opening stories about Drew's interactions with customers at an Apple store, which will shed light on his challenges and triumphs! Don't miss this insightful conversation! Follow Drew on LinkedIn and stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. (41) Andrew Crook | LinkedIn Listen now and be inspired! #BlindLifePodcast #Accessibility #ParamountGlobal #TubiTV #ParamountPlus #VisionImpairment #GuideDog #Inspiration #TechTalk #DisabilityAdvocacy

Okay, folks, get ready. Because today, we're going deep, deep into the world of those Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. Oh, yeah. Hold on. We're not just talking about how cool they look. But let's be honest, they are pretty slick. Right. But you've sent us a ton of stuff on these glasses. Yeah. Reviews, articles, even some hints about what's coming down the line.

Hey everybody, it's Sam with The Blind Life! Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Blind Life Podcast. In today's episode, I'm thrilled to chat with my friend Sedona Dave, the brilliant mind behind Awarewolf Gear. We dive deep into the creation and innovation of two groundbreaking mobility aids: the All Terrain Cane and the brand new Urban Xplorer. We revisit my conversation with Dave in LA, where he shares the inspiration and unique features of the All Terrain Cane. Then we catch up with Dave to discuss the Urban Xplorer, his latest innovation designed for urban environments. Key Features Discussed: - The inspiration behind the All Terrain Cane - Unique design elements and durability - The development process of the Urban Xplorer - How these canes enhance mobility for the blind This episode is perfect for anyone interested in assistive technology, particularly those who are visually impaired or work in the field of mobility aids. It's also a must-watch for tech enthusiasts and innovators looking to learn about the latest advancements in mobility solutions. If you enjoyed this episode, please give it a thumbs up, share it with your friends, and don't forget to subscribe to The Blind Life for more content on assistive technology.  #TheBlindLife #AssistiveTechnology #AllTerrainCane #UrbanXplorer #MobilityAids #BlindTech #SedonaDave #AwarewolfGear #InnovativeMobility  

In this episode of The Blind Life Podcast, Sam Seavey continues the Working Blind series with Christy, who shares her inspiring journey from a career in consulting to leading global disability accommodations at Otis Elevator. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at age 3, Christy talks about adapting to vision loss, the transition to audiobooks, and how self-advocacy plays a key role in creating a more accessible world. Listen in as she shares her professional and personal experiences to inspire others in the blind and visually impaired community. Check out more episodes in the *Working Blind* series on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode! #BlindLife #WorkingBlind #Accessibility #Audiobooks #RetinitisPigmentosa #AssistiveTechnology  

Shopping online as a blind or visually impaired individual can be challenging due to inaccessible websites. In this video, I introduce InnoSearch, a new platform designed specifically for the blind and visually impaired. It integrates with major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, providing a cleaner, streamlined experience free of clutter. I'll walk you through my purchase experience and show you how to save $10 using code THEBlindLife! Be sure to try InnoSearch and share your feedback. Link: ► https://www.innosearch.ai/ $10 off code: ► THEBLINDLIFE Leave feedback: ► info@innosearch.ai #Accessibility #BlindCommunity #InnoSearch #OnlineShopping #TheBlindLife #VisuallyImpaired #AccessibleTech Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Drop your questions or feedback about InnoSearch in the comments.

In this episode, I chat with Selena, Cleaves, and T, the brilliant minds behind the popular UK-based Seesaw Podcast. We dive into their history, from meeting in school to starting the podcast during lockdown, and explore each host's vision impairment journey. Learn how they leveraged Selena's popularity to boost their reach in a truly entrepreneurial way. Looking for a new advocacy podcast? Seesaw Podcast is a must-listen! Available on all major podcast platforms. Enjoy the episode? Like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Check out Seesaw Podcast on your favorite podcast platform for more inspiring content. #SeesawPodcast #BlindCommunity #PodcastInterview #Advocacy #AccessibleContent #TheBlindLife  

Hey everyone! In this episode of The Blind Life podcast, I share my vision story – from my diagnosis with Stargardt's disease at age 11 to how it has progressed over the years. Discover how I navigated school challenges, found solace at a school for the blind, and adapted to life with limited vision. Plus, learn about my tips for living independently with Stargardt's. Big thanks to Irie A.T. for sponsoring this video. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your own vision stories with #VisionStory! Sponsor: irie-at.com #TheBlindLife #StargardtsDisease #VisionImpairment #LivingBlind #Accessibility #BlindnessAwareness #AssistiveTech #Inspiration #SubscribeNow  

Join Sam from The Blind Life as he interviews Chris, a remarkable individual with an inspiring vision story. At the age of 24, Chris received a diagnosis of Stargardt disease, leading to legal blindness by his early thirties. Despite the challenges, Chris embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery through cycling. From commuting to work to conquering 100-mile charity rides and tackling the rugged terrain of off-road mountain biking, Chris's resilience shines through. Now, he's preparing for his most ambitious adventure yet: the Tour Divide, a 2,700-mile self-supported mountain bike race from Canada to Mexico. Learn how Chris navigates the trails with low vision, overcomes obstacles, and finds strength in solitude. This is a story of determination, adventure, and living life to the fullest. Don't miss out on this incredible journey! Follow Chris's adventure with the hashtag #BlindCyclistJourney and share your own stories of resilience and adventure. Join the conversation and support Chris on his epic ride across America!

In this episode of the working blind series, I'm talking with Brad Manning, 1/2 of the very successful Two Blind Brothers team. Brad discusses how he and his brother got started in the fashion industry and how their meteoric rides in popularity led to some difficult growing pains and uncertainty for the future of the business. #TheBlindLife #Blind #BlindTok #LowVision #VisuallyImpaired #Stargardt #MacularDegeneration #RetinitisPigmentosa #AssistiveTechnology #Accessibility #Advocacy #Disability #AccessibleApps  

Unlock the full potential of your iPhone or iPad with our comprehensive tutorial! Join us as we guide you through optimizing your device for low vision needs. Learn to navigate Accessibility settings, customize displays for clarity, and enlarge screen elements effortlessly. Discover the power of the zoom magnifier and set up hardware shortcuts for quick access. With our step-by-step guidance, anyone can harness the full accessibility features of their Apple device. Don't miss out! #Accessibility #LowVision #iPhone #iPad #AssistiveTechnology #ZoomMagnifier"

In this video, I put the Apple Vision Pro to the test to determine if it's a viable device for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Through a thorough week-long evaluation, I explore its features, accessibility options, and overall usability in various real-life situations. Join me as I delve into this cutting-edge wearable headset's capabilities and determine if it truly lives up to its potential as a game-changer for the visually impaired community. Don't miss this extensive review packed with insights and expert opinions on the Apple Vision Pro's suitability for those with visual impairments. #AppleVisionPro #TechReview #AccessibilityReview #TechForVisuallyImpaired

Join me as I unfold an amazing story of determination and creativity in Minecraft! In this captivating storytime,I share the incredible journey of recreating the iconic Biltmore Estate from scratch.  Prepare to be amazed as I recount the painstaking process of constructing the entire Biltmore Mansion, room by room, over several months. From the grandeur of its sheer size to the meticulous attention to detail in every single chamber, no stone or block was left unturned!   But, as fate would have it, tragedy struck when my world file, containing the masterpiece I had poured my heart into, vanished into thin air.    Join me as I reminisce about the incredible memories and explore the vast range of other magnificent builds that adorned that fateful world – pirate ships, mesmerizing castles, magical blimps, soaring airplanes, and even every single house I've ever lived in!    Don't miss out on this incredible storytime adventure! Listen now to witness the ultimate triumphs and heart-wrenching losses that made this Minecraft journey truly unforgettable. Like, comment, and subscribe to support me on this incredible ride!   #MinecraftStorytime #GamingAdventure #LostWorld #BuildingCreativity #MinecraftCreation #IncredibleJourney #EpicBuild #MinecraftCommunity #HeartbreakandTriumph

Today we explore the world of Tesla's humanoid robots and their potential as personal assistants for the blind community. Could the Optimus Gen II be the ideal solution for the visually impaired? Tesla unveiled their groundbreaking prototype humanoid robot in 2021, and just two years later, they announced the third-generation model called Optimus. These highly advanced robots closely resemble humans and possess a range of impressive capabilities. As Tesla pushes forward with their ambitious plans, we question whether these robots could be a game-changer for the disabled community, particularly the blind and visually impaired. In this episode, we delve into the features of the Optimus Gen II and compare it with Boston Dynamics' robot, Atlas. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these robotic advancements can revolutionize personal assistance for the visually impaired. However, an important consideration is the accessibility and affordability of these robots. Will they be freely available to the blind community, or will they follow a different economic model? We value our viewers' perspectives on this crucial matter. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on whether having a robot as a personal assistant for the blind is a viable option in the next 10 years. As we explore the intersections of technology, disability, and progress, we want to hear from you. Be part of a community fascinated by assistive technology for the blind, interested in robotics, future technology, and the advancements made by companies like Tesla. #teslarobot #Teslabot #OptimisGenII #RobotsForTheBlind @Tesla

Be My Eyes, one of the most popular apps in the blind community has added a new AI tool. Be My AI Adds the power of ChatGPT and introduces amazing possibilities to the assisted technology world! Website: • https://www.bemyeyes.com/ For Apple: • https://apps.apple.com/us/app/be-my-eyes/id905177575 For Android: • https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes&hl=en_US&gl=US #ai #tech #futuretech #chatgpt  @bemyeyes 

In 2016 I created a very short film called "The Visit". It was just a fun little project I did with my daughter Skyler, and then posted on my channel. Since barely anyone saw it at the time, I thought I would repost the video and this time include audio description. This is the audio from that video. I hope you enjoy it! Watch the full video here! https://youtu.be/vDitqipFPDI?si=wVzZk1bdJREKO-x5

This is talked back with the blind life, the video podcast where my wife Rachel and I answer frequently asked questions and comments from the previous month's videos. We also do a giveaway in each episode. To watch the full episode, and join in the giveaway, head over to www.youtube.com/theblindlife. 

Did you know there are a bunch of crazy voices available to use on your Mac? They are novelty voices that can be used for many of your text-to-speech applications like VoiceOver, or Spoken Content. Monsters, robots, underwater voices, even a guy that whispers! These novelty voices will add some fun to your otherwise boring computer! Part one of my Mac accessibility series. My PC playlist: ► https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLThdr7uPwVs0RrP5u_5l4iDJkF4q6L4gh&si=dPRs0wg0l-NtSpNZ

In this episode, we talked to Gary Beene, the creator of the EZ Reader accessible computer system. The EZ Reader is a full computer system that offers a suite of over 100 tools and applications that will make computing more accessible. With easy to understand applications, which offer customizable, high contrast, large print interfaces, The EZ Reader system is a fantastic option for anyone struggling to use a computer. During this very informative conversation, Gary discusses why he created the EZ Reader system and how his clients, who become much more than just clients to Gary, use it for a wide variety of tasks, Everything from sending emails to creating fantastical worlds! Learn more: Watch my full review video ► https://youtu.be/3MvE-w8ZauE?si=-rJeeuhA4FSTVydH Visit the website ► https://newvisionconcepts.com/ Gary Beene gbeene@airmail.net 11936 Jamestown Road Dallas, TX 75230 214-668-9913

You know, we've all had those conversations where we talk about all the reasons why it sucks to be blind. Countless frustrations and annoyances that we face every day as VIPs. I'm sure we can all relate to that. But this week I want to switch it up a bit. This week I want to talk about some of the things I love about being blind!   Check out the full video over on my Youtube channel, www.Youtube.com/theblindlife  

This is the Hable One, a smartphone and tablet remote control for the blind and visually impaired. From the website, "Using your smartphone with a visual impairment can sometimes be frustrating and difficult. At Hable, we like to make this easier for you. The Hable One is the most convenient physical keyboard for the entire smartphone operation". If you'd like to learn more, check out the Habble website: ► https://www.iamhable.com/

The first in my audio book club video series, this is my review of the very popular book, Ready Player One. Written by Ernest Klein, and narrated by The Amazing Will Wheaton, this is my favorite book of all time and I was excited to feature it as the first installment in the audiobook club series. Although the series never panned out, this is still a fantastic book which I highly recommend! Here is the book on Amazon, https://amzn.to/3tDUKtA Click here to get a FREE Trial of Audible: https://amzn.to/2wCA87F  

This is the "Working Blind" series where I interview amazing people in the visually impaired community who are successfully working as a VIP! The goal is to highlight different jobs that people in the blind community are doing, In hopes of inspiring others who might be wondering what types of jobs are possible. In this episode, I'm interviewing Oguz Buyukberber, a professional musician. "Working Blind" Playlist: ► https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLThdr7uPwVs1bJJQIACROzMKpGqwBesv9 Oguz Buyukberber website: ► https://www.oguzbuyukberber.com/

  In this episode, we feature the BlindShell Classic 2, an accessible cell phone for the visually impaired and senior market. This is one of my favorite options for the blind community because it offers a fully accessible, fully featured, easy-to-use, smartphone alternative. The BlindShell Classic 2 Offers a wide range of accessible features such as mobile games, an Internet radio, a book player, a calendar, email, a flashlight, and even a camera that takes photos and video. The phone offers many smartphone options like WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, voice calling, voice dictation, and even a digital assistant.  All of this makes the  BlindShell Classic 2 a fantastic option for anyone who doesn't want to use a smartphone.  Watch the full video here, https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLThdr7uPwVs3-KEuzQ0xbGlXVdVRqjczR

In this episode, I'm attending the healtheVoices conference hosted by Johnson and Johnson, and get to speak with three amazing VIPs to learn what it takes to be successful when working blind! I sit down with Jill King, a "baby blind" VIP who talks about creating a nonprofit aimed at helping disabled students get the services they require, Amir Rahimi, A new member of the Johnson and Johnson team who has one of the craziest vision stories I've ever heard, and Joe Strechay, a film and television producer who almost gave me my big break in TV! 

This is my interview with Idan Meir, CEO and co-founder of Right Hear. Right Hear Is a system designed to provide both indoor and outdoor orientation. As Idan puts it, they're basically creating talking signs. Imagine if you walked up to a building, and your smartphone announced that you had arrived at the front door. That would be pretty cool right? Well how about if it also told you that after you go through the door, the reception desk is 10 feet on your left and the restrooms were 20 feet straight ahead with the men's room on the left and the women's room on the right. Then, how crazy would it be if it also told you the layout of the bathroom And provided a phone number to call for help? That's the magic of Right Hear! Idan Explains all about the system and how you can help to get it installed into a location near you! Contact for Right Hear: https://www.right-hear.com/ idan@right-hear.com 

This is an interview I had recently with Kirsty McIntosh of ScottishTechArmy.org, talking about bringing back the very popular Soundscape app. Soundscape Was a former Microsoft research project that became a very popular app in the blind and visually impaired community. After the app was discontinued, Kirsty and her team decided to take on the project of saving the application and relaunching it for the community! In this episode, Kirsty Details the reasons why they chose this particular app and the difficulties in bringing it back to the users. For more information, or to find out how you can help with this project, reach out to Kirsty - kirsty@scottishtecharmy.org

Have you ever experienced the phenomenon of feeling like you need to act more blind than you really are? In this episode, I talk about experiencing this while traveling and using my cane. This was a video that I put out a few years ago and it sparked a lot of response from the community. Apparently, as with most things dealing with low vision, I'm not the only one that experiences this! If you'd like to see the full video, check it out here! https://youtu.be/U586xmk2JC0?si=R_3uYxt5qq-xWTa8

super Dave Wilkinson is at it again! Apparently, triathlons, super triathlons, ultra marathons,  and Iron man competitions Just weren't posing enough of a challenge anymore . Now Dave is on to his next crazy adventure! But wait, what's this about being airlifted off the side of a mountain in Canada?  Oh Dave!

I've talked about the different parts of my vision story many times over the last 10 years. In hundreds of videos, presentations, and podcast interviews, I've slowly pieced together the different parts of my story. However, this was the first time that I laid it all out in one single video. In this episode of the blind life podcast, I share the audio from that video. If you would like to watch the full video, click here,https://youtu.be/4wPVxv2ZVJo  

"Talk Back With The Blind Life" is a monthly video podcast where my wife Rachel and I answer the previous month's most frequently asked questions. This is the August episode! To watch the full video and to enter in the contest, visit the YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/theblindlife

This is my interview with Brad and Bryan Manning, the Two Blind Brothers. A few years ago, Brad and Bryan started a company selling supersoft, high-quality clothing, and donating 100% of the profits to help fund clinical research in hopes of finding a cure for blindness. For this interview, I joined them in their New York loft to talk about their vision impairment why they started the company, and their appearance on the Ellen Show! I even got to see the big check, lol! 

This is an interview with Daniel Lubiner, the founder of the TouchPad Pro Foundation and creator of the Braille Doodle. In this interview, Daniel talks about the inspiration behind creating the Braille Doodle, which is a fun and engaging new way for the blind and visually impaired to draw and learn braille! The BrailleDoodle Kickstarter is happening now. ► https://www.tinyurl.com/BrailleDoodle... The TouchPad Pro Foundation Website: ► https://www.TouchPadProFoundation.org Daniel Lubiner's email: ► Daniel@TouchPadProFoundation.org

 In this episode, I have an informative and entertaining discussion with Mathieu Paquette and Peter Tucic from Humanware. we talk about the latest version of the Victor Reader Stream 3 and how it's improved over the previous versions! To learn more, be sure to visit the website, www.humanware.com.

A while back, I had the opportunity to participate in a photo shoot with some amazing blind athletes. Don't ask me why I was there, one of those "right time right place" situations! Anyway, one of the athletes was professional skateboarder Justin Bishop who was fresh off a championship win! During a lull in our new career as fashion models, I pulled Justin aside to ask him a few questions about his vision journey. This is my interview with professional skateboarder, and overall pretty awesome guy, Justin Bishop!  

This is the All Terrain Cane, a new adventure cane brought to us by the extraordinary Sedona Dave and Awarewolf Gear! In this episode, I described the cane and talk about how useful it can be for the adventurous vip. I also sit down with Sedona Dave and learn how one treacherous day on the hiking trail inspired a new revolution in the White Cane! Get it here:  https://awarewolfgear.com/atc/ Subscribe to The Blind Life:  https://www.youtube.com/TheBlindLife

Have you ever wondered what it's like growing up with a blind parent? In this interview with my daughter Skyler we discussed her being embarrassed about having a blind parent and how it's impossible to sneak cookies when your dad has super hearing! 

This is the June 2023 episode of Talk Back With The Blind Life! This is a video podcast I produced with my wife Rachel where we answer frequently asked questions and comments from the previous month's videos. During these episodes, we also chat with the audience and do a giveaway. In this particular episode, we also discuss the new Apple Vision Pro VR headset. 

This is the first episode in our new series, "The Working Blind Series"! In this series, we will interview amazing VIPs who are successfully working, in hopes of inspiring those in the community curious about what types of jobs and careers are available to the blind and visually impaired.  In this first episode, I interview one of my favorite people in the world, myself!  If you'd like to see all of the episodes in the working blind series head over to the working blind series playlist on my youtube channel, The Blind Life.