In this episode, I recap my trip to Las Vegas for the NFB of Nevada State Convention—part learning, part getaway with Liz. As chair of the upcoming Pennsylvania convention, I wanted to see how other states run theirs. Nevada’s was short but packed, and I took notes, especially on their use of breakout tracks and Family Feud. Liz and I also hit In-N…

In episode 284 of iCantCU, I talk about another hiccup with my psoriatic arthritis meds—this time, the pharmacy wanted over two grand out of pocket. Spoiler: I said no. Taltz has helped a bit, but not $2,000-a-month helpful. So now I’m back on the hunt for something else that won’t break the bank or mess me up with scary side effects. I also share …

In this episode of iCantCU, I talk about my recent trip to Baltimore for a National Federation of the Blind leadership seminar. The travel down was rough—high winds, delayed trains, and a soaked suitcase—but once I got there, it was an incredible few days. I met fantastic people from all over the country, learned a ton, and left feeling inspired (a…

In this episode of iCantCU, I share a jaw-dropping moment when the director of a Pennsylvania state agency called me a four-letter word. Yes, really. It all ties back to my ongoing fight for transparency and inclusion in the Business Enterprise Program (BEP), which provides blind entrepreneurs with opportunities to run vending and food service busi…

In this episode of iCantCU, I recount my journey to Washington, D.C., for the annual National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Washington Seminar. I share insights into the event’s purpose—advocating for policies that support blind Americans—and my meetings with congressional representatives and senators. I detail the structured meetings, including co…

In episode 280 of iCantCU, I share my experience traveling to New York City for Jane’s apartment settlement. I reflect on navigating the subway, offering reassurance to those hesitant about using public transportation. Drawing from my father’s advice—"Be careful, but don’t be afraid"—I encourage everyone to embrace new challenges, whether in travel…

I highlight the incredible support I received from volunteers and attendees, including a helpful staffer named Hunter, whose mother, Wendy, played a key role in pre-event planning. I describe my challenges in the exhibit hall due to noise and crowd density, my enjoyment of the sessions, and memorable networking encounters, including a conversation …

In episode 278 of iCantCU, I start off with some good news from the fantasy football world. Out of the three leagues I played in this year, I won two championships, including the NFB Students fundraising league with my team Ziggy FC. Yahoo’s fantasy sports app, while not perfect, is a standout example of accessibility done right. Unfortunately, not…

In this packed episode of iCantCU, I dive into holiday highlights, culinary adventures, and upcoming plans. First, I share my experience attending a French macaron-making class with Liz and Jane at Sur La Table. While the process was visually intensive, the instructor, Elliot, made it incredibly tactile and inclusive for me, which was both surprisi…

In this episode of iCantCU, I share my experience traveling to Harrisburg for the Blind Merchants Holiday Party and fundraiser, reflecting on the challenges of navigating public transportation as a person with very limited sight. Timing was a major hurdle, from the unpredictable delays with CCT to coordinating a group of 17 people on an Amtrak trai…

In this episode of iCantCU, I share highlights from the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania’s state convention in Erie and reflect on the experience of turning 60. The journey to Erie was an adventure in itself, with a nine-hour bus ride filled with trivia games, camaraderie, and the occasional logistical hiccup. Once there, I was happ…

In episode 274 of iCantCU, I dive into my experiences walking with a white cane while out and about and the pain it causes in my hands. While I enjoy getting steps in anywhere—whether recording a podcast or walking around my house or backyard —walking in a familiar place where I don't use my cane is much easier than where I need to. I discuss the d…

The highlight of this episode is my visit to the Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion for "Lori Listens," hosted by PA First Lady Lori Shapiro. I, along with other members of the NFB of PA, got to talk about web accessibility issues with folks from the state. We gave feedback on a Commonwealth website and were surprised to see changes made almost immedi…

In this episode of iCantCU (#272), I dive into a whirlwind, last-minute trip to Pittsburgh. It was a bit of an adventure, starting with a long train ride and a stay at a very questionable hotel. I mean, the smell alone deserves its own segment! But despite the less-than-ideal accommodations, I made the most of my one full day in the Steel City. Bet…

In episode 271 of iCantCU, I talk about two state-level meetings I attended and the adventure of navigating a new train station without any help from Amtrak. First up was an OVR meeting where, despite being focused on disabilities, they had nothing accessible for blind folks—no Braille, no large print, nothing. Frustrating, but not surprising. I al…

In episode 270 of iCantCU, titled The Pressure of Being Blind, I discuss my recent experiences at Podcast Movement in Washington, D.C. Despite initial hesitations, a last-minute decision led me to attend the event. I share the challenges of navigating the conference as the only blind participant, emphasizing the pressure to avoid mistakes and the c…

By davidbenj

In episode 268 of iCantCU, I take you along on my latest trip to New York City, where I tested the accessibility of a new version of a financial app. The trip had its moments, from battling some equipment issues to a chaotic cab ride that had me questioning my life choices. I also finally got to visit the Jackie Robinson Museum, something I’ve been…

In episode 267 of the iCantCU podcast, I talk about my recent trip to the NFB National Convention in Orlando. I start by mentioning my improved lighting setup in Studio B, hoping it looks better than last time. The convention was a whirlwind of activity, and I had the pleasure of meeting many incredible people, especially the lively folks from the …

In episode 265 of iCantCU, I recount two memorable rail journeys. First, I went to Harrisburg overnight to engage with the Lions Club at their state convention. Navigating the busy, labyrinthine hotel presented challenges, but connecting with new people and sharing about the NFB was rewarding. The second trip took me to New York City, where I provi…

In Episode 264 of iCantCU, I share two stories about how AI has made my life easier. The first story revolves around recording our Keystone Chapter meeting. I used Descript to transcribe the recording and then ChatGPT to draft the minutes. This process saved me significant time despite needing a few corrections. The second story is about ordering m…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss my trip to Las Vegas. I just returned from an exciting trip to Vegas, where I attended the Grow With Video Live conference. I have some great updates and stories to share with you! First, a shoutout to Greg, a listener and Phillies fan, who's made significant strides with the Phillies organization to provide re…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss various engaging topics that have kept me busy over the past week. I begin with a humorous anecdote about a raffle where an unsold ticket wins. I reflect on my participation in a recent podcast episode of "That Real Blind Tech Show," where Brian and Ed critiqued Michael Schuman's article in The Atlantic, I shif…

In episode 261 of iCantCU, I dive into a heartfelt discussion, primarily focusing on an article from The Atlantic that caught my attention thanks to my sister-in-law. The piece, titled "I'm Disabled. Please Help Me." reflects on the challenges visually impaired individuals face in navigating public spaces and prompts me to share my own experiences …

In this episode of iCantCU, I share some exciting updates and stories. First, I want to thank Renee, Dan, and Alex for supporting the NFB of Pennsylvania April raffle. It's been a fun ride with tickets at $5 each, offering everyone a chance to win daily throughout April. Getting those tickets out, especially to our visually impaired friends, has be…

In this episode of iCantCU, I share a mix of personal anecdotes and reflections on technology, media representation, and community engagement. My weekend outing with Liz to Brio, a restaurant in the Christiana Mall, turned into an exploration of assistive technology. I intended to pick up my Mac mini. Still, I delved into the capabilities and limit…

In this episode of iCantCU, I focus on web accessibility, the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, and a unique raffle ticket sale to support the NFB of PA. I detail the raffle, explaining the process, the prizes, and the significance of the funds raised for the NFB of Pennsylvania. This initiative highlights the podcast's commitment t…

In this episode of iCantCU, I explore everything from unique fundraising efforts to the power of community meetings and the challenges blind parents face. I begin with an exciting opportunity to support the NFB of Pennsylvania through a raffle with fantastic rewards. It's a simple way to contribute and stand a chance to win, with proceeds going dir…

In this episode of iCantCU, I explain what Washington Seminar is and discuss various aspects of my trip to Washington, D.C., for the annual event. I was part of a team from the NFB of PA that I dubbed the PA-5 Guys since we (Simon, Chip, and me) are all from Pennsylvania's 5th Congressional District. We met with Susan Wild, D-PA7. She is a big supp…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss more issues with apps and their lack of accessibility. This time, it's Uber and ASX. Both were better than Starbucks but required workarounds or the dreaded sighted help. I also recount a fantastic afternoon with our friends at the Greater Philly Chapter. Their President, Denice Brown, invited members of the Ke…

In this episode of iCantCU, I explain some problems with another app. Starbucks, I'm talking to you. How is a blind or visually impaired person supposed to place an order for a store that is now a mobile order pick-up-only location if the app isn't accessible? On the bright side, I now have an app to use as a demonstration when we meet our Represen…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss my frustration with an app for doing a music survey from Alt Nation on SiriusXM. Generally speaking, the app was probably about 70% accessible. However, the most important part was not. You've got to hear the song to rate it. If you can’t find the play button, you can’t listen. This is not the only app that has…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss my experience at the Wilma Theater with audio description for the play Fat Ham. I was hoping the AD device worked. I left disappointed. I also explain what is going on with Ziggy. Additionally, I mention upcoming episodes of That Real Blind Tech Show and Double Tap that I am a part of. In Just Listen, I share s…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss a trip to Harrisburg for a Blind Merchants and Business Enterprise Program Christmas party and fundraiser. Over $1000 was raised for the "little blind kids." I also explain the logistics involved for me at our Keystone Chapter meeting and Christmas party at the Penn Museum. I share my disappointment at a recent…

In this episode of iCantCU, I look back at five years of the podcast. I discuss what episodes have been the most popular and what countries have the most downloads. I play clips of the very first episode and the most downloaded episode. Whether this is your first time listening or you've been along for the entire ride, I am grateful for your suppor…

In this episode of iCantCU, join me as I dive into the frustrating world of social media accessibility, or the lack thereof. I'm unpacking the challenges I faced while trying to post on Instagram and the glaring accessibility gaps on TikTok. But that's not all! I also share my experiences from the NFB of PA State Convention in Harrisburg, PA. You w…

Dive headfirst into an urban odyssey on this episode of iCantCU, where I take you on a gripping tale of navigating the bustling arteries of New York City - solo! Yes, you heard that right. I braved the iconic subway alone for the first time, embarking on a quest from an Amtrak train to the number one line, with a mission to reach my daughter's upto…

In the latest iCantCU episode, I peel back the curtain on a whirlwind week! Dive into the highs and lows of the "Believe You Can!" talent show, and get swept away by the heart and dedication of every performer. With Ziggy facing health challenges, I shed light on his journey and what's next. Plus, I grapple with global events that left me reeling, …

In this episode of iCantCU, I share the story of being put on HostGator's Blacklist. That's not the same one as the one Raymond Reddington is on. I wasn't notified, and it took support more than a day to tell me. I talk about chatting to support without using a screen reader, which is also challenging. Things might have been easier if I had Dembe t…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss several days of being out and about. While two days were only for doctor visits, one was an enjoyable, sometimes scary evening at Eastern State Penitentiary. Their Halloween Nights are legendary, and I finally got to go as part of a Philly Meetup For The Blind event. You can hear some of the fun in an extended …

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss some ups and downs with our monthly Keystone Chapter meeting at the Penn Museum. At least the trains were running to and from the Penn Medicine Station. I explain some differences in Believe You Can! 2023 over previous year's shows. I give a mini book review of The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of S…

In this episode of iCantCU, I explore three intriguing topics. First, we touch on the joys and challenges of preparing and enjoying food, a universal experience close to our hearts. Then, I discuss the "Believe You Can! Talent Show," shedding light on an exciting event presented by the Keystone Chapter. Lastly, I dive into the fascinating "Be My AI…

In this episode of iCantCU, I discuss my experience with the BEP director job application. Despite scoring 95 out of 110 on the test, I received no interview. I also discovered that my references were not contacted. Was the process pre-planned, and the job was just posted for legal reasons? There's speculation that the acting director might have be…

In this episode of iCantCU, I share my recent experiences with the Keystone Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. I dive into my thoughts on fundraising activities, like the drawing for our Dinner for a Week fundraiser. I also talk about Cira Green, a fantastic park I visited in Philly. Picture this: It's on top of a park…

In this episode of iCantCU, I talk about traveling to NYC to participate in a Cornell University Research Study using a VR headset and non-verbal cues. I WAS EXCITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS STUDY since I had never put on a VR headset. After finishing the study at Cornell Tech on Roosevelt Island, I headed to Bryant Park to meet with Jane to grab din…

This iCantCU episode is a cross-over with Brian Fischler and Ed Plumacher from That Real Blind Tech Show. We discuss our time together at #NFB23 in Houston. We talk about going to the Astros game on July 4th and the Listen device that gets the radio broadcast in real-time. Ed tells me the difference between BeepBall and Blind Baseball. We talk abou…

In this episode of iCantCU, I talk about the NFB National Convention in Houston. I talk about some of the sessions I attended and what I learned. I discuss General Sessions and some of the presenters who took the stage. A couple of the presenters were in unfriendly territory. Still, they had the guts to show up and tell their organization's story. …

In this travelogue episode of iCantCU, I talk about my travel experience to and from #nfb23 in Houston, Texas. There are always accessibility issues; they started when I got to PHL. If I could, I would have only traveled with a carry-on bag. When I arrived at IAH, I had to rely on someone to help me get out of the airport and into a taxi. Coming ho…

In this episode of iCantCU, I talk about getting the NFB of PA website done enough to show people at the #NFB23 National Convention. There is still work to be done, but I've gotten to the point where I am writing content for the site, not just doing technical or design things. I also discuss my travel plans for Houston, the convention site. I am ex…