Best Reader Essentials Podcasts (2025)

1
New Oakley Meta Smart Glasses and Upgraded Screen Reader Voices 57:04

10h ago57:04

57:04

New Meta Oakley smart glasses, upgraded voices for screen readers, and an honest look at accessibility shopping—all packed into this lively Double Tap episode. In this episode, Steven and Shaun kick off the week with updates on Meta's latest collaboration with Oakley, bringing new smart glasses with improved battery and camera specs. They also deba…

1
158. Writing Science Fiction for Social Impact 12:59

19h ago12:59

12:59

“What would it look like if we did take care of everyone?” - Beth Barany In this episode of "How To Write the Future" podcast, authors and writing teachers, Beth Barany and her husband Ezra Barany, explore how speculative fiction can highlight social issues. They discuss strategies for crafting compelling stories that inspire social change without …

1
Is Braille Still Essential, The Case for Sheltered Workshops in a Modern World & Being Trapped In A Recliner 56:37

3d ago56:37

56:37

Steven and Shaun tackle the big questions this week—from being trapped in a recliner to debating whether sheltered workshops for disabled people still have value. Plus, listener emails spark deep dives into Braille, inclusion, and how technology can both help and hinder. In this episode of Double Tap, Steven shares his comical ordeal of being stuck…

1
Episode 170 - Writing the crowd scene. And guilt and pride. 28:09

4d ago28:09

28:09

Here are techniques for keeping focus in a scene where there is a crowd, with an example from Harper Lee. And how Margaret Mitchell worked. Plus: how can we show rather than tell about a character's guilt or pride. Support the showBy James Thayer

1
Behind the Scenes of a Smartwatch Review & When Low Vision Gets in the Way 57:29

4d ago57:29

57:29

Steven and Shaun return to the inbox with tech frustrations, personal updates, and listener messages on future AI, smart mobility devices, and sunglasses for blind users. From garden mishaps to thoughtful reflections on accessibility, it's one of those episodes that somehow works—warts and all. This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creator…

1
Hands-On with the Synapptic Accessible Smartwatch & Custom Fit, Studio Sound: The Breggz Earbuds Reviewed 55:50

5d ago55:50

55:50

Is Android finally accessible for blind users? We explore the new Synapptic SmartWatch Plus—an accessible Android-powered wearable—and test high-end custom earbuds from Breggz that promise audiophile-grade sound. In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece explore two very different products with accessibility in mind. First, Steve…

1
What's New in Android 16 and TalkBack 16 56:40

6d ago56:40

56:40

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive deep into the latest updates in Android 16 and TalkBack 16. You'll hear firsthand experiences, expert analysis from John Dyer of Blind Android Users, and listener feedback on Alexa Plus and the importance of fair pay. Steven and Shaun kick off the show with humor and tech bante…

1
Speech Radio Shutdown, NVDA & Victor Reader Updates & The Future of Tactile Graphics 56:28

7d ago56:28

56:28

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into the latest tech updates and accessibility news, including a deep conversation with Matthew Horspool from the Tactile Reading and Graphics Conference in Amsterdam. Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback…

1
157. How to Craft AI and Robot Characters in Your Fiction 10:05

8d ago10:05

10:05

“ So I haven't yet pulled in any ethical or moral dilemmas that would be interesting, maybe in a future story.” - Beth Barany In “How to Craft AI and Robot Characters in Your Fiction” ****Beth Barany discusses how to create compelling AI and robot characters with unique traits to engage readers. She is joined by her husband, Ezra Barany, also an au…

1
More WWDC Reactions, Vibe Coding, and Blind Pride Debates 56:37

10d ago56:37

56:37

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into the evolving world of AI-generated code—aka "vibe coding"—and its potential to reshape app development. They break down the user interface changes introduced at Apple’s WWDC and how accessibility settings may help low vision users manage visual effects. A chaotic bus ride involving accidenta…

1
Episode 169 - How to find a surefire plot. 25:03

11d ago25:03

25:03

Stephen King says there is no idea dump we can visit to find a good plot. We have to create our own plots. How can we do so? Here's a discussion on creating plots. Also, if Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark expedition can learn to write, so can we. And the critical technique of using the active sentence form. Support the show…

1
Patrick Burton from Benvision on Building Accessible Apps That Last 57:11

11d ago57:11

57:11

Steven and Shaun dive further into Apple’s WWDC announcements, including updates to the Vision Pro, new accessibility tools, and the ongoing debate around gaming on Macs. They also respond to listener feedback on the accessibility of label printers and smart AI tools. Hable is doing a one-time promo just for Double Tap listeners. Hable is offering …

1
Siri, Smart Toilets & AI Regrets: Double Tap Dives Deep 56:38

12d ago56:38

56:38

This episode of Double Tap takes a refreshingly personal and humorous turn, starting with Steven's icy ice cream conundrum and Shaun’s candid thoughts on at-home health kits. But the focus shifts quickly to tech as the hosts digest their initial reactions to Apple’s WWDC 2025 announcements. Steven admits to a change of heart after reevaluating Appl…

1
Accessibility Experts React to WWDC 2025 56:38

13d ago56:38

56:38

Steven Scott, Shaun Preece, Shelly Brisbin, and Carrie Morales break down Apple’s WWDC 2025. From Apple Intelligence to the controversial “liquid glass” design, they dive deep into what works, what doesn’t, and what it means for accessibility. In this WWDC 2025 roundtable, Steven, Shaun, Shelly, and Carrie share their unfiltered reactions to Apple’…

1
Albinism, Advocacy, and Access: A Call for Community-Led Change At Inclusive Africa 55:42

14d ago55:42

55:42

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece continue their coverage from the Inclusive Africa Conference 2025, featuring powerful conversations on accessibility standards, digital inclusion, and youth empowerment across the continent. Steven and Shaun kick off the episode with a light-hearted discussion ahead of Apple's WWDC, before shifting foc…

1
156. Essential Tips for Writing Space Opera 8:31

15d ago8:31

8:31

“ Of course, you want to think of what they want, the goal, why they want it, the motivation; what's in their way, the conflict, but also their strengths and also their secrets.” - Beth Barany In this episode of How To Write The Future, “Essential Tips for Writing Space Opera,” podcast host Beth Barany gets interviewed by her husband and fellow aut…

1
Building Accessibility At Inclusive Africa: Voices from Meta, Google & More 57:14

17d ago57:14

57:14

Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback is offering 12% off your entire order with promo code DT12. Visit https://www.turtlebacklv.com to shop the full lineup! Steven and Shaun take Double Tap to Nairobi for more coverage of the Inclusive Africa Conference. Th…

1
Episode 168 - Making our first sentence sparkle. 27:17

18d ago27:17

27:17

Does our story's first sentence cause the reader to ask, "What's next?" Or does the reader say, "So what?" Here are thoughts on creating a tense, sparkling first sentence. Also, how the masters use specific, definite, and concrete details to convince the reader. Support the showBy James Thayer

1
Inside Inclusive Africa: Disability Advocacy from Kenya to Lesotho 58:04

18d ago58:04

58:04

This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and Scribe. Get $20 off with code dt20 at https://pneumasolutions.com/ and enter to win a free subscription at doubletaponair.com/subscribe! Get an inside look at the Inclusive Africa Conference 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. Discover powerful conversa…

1
Making Maps Accessible: Inside Audiom from XR Navigation 57:46

19d ago57:46

57:46

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun tackle the challenges of accessible navigation. From hilarious personal confessions about getting lost on public transport to a deep dive into XR Navigation's audio-based mapping tool, this episode blends tech insight with real-world accessibility. Steven and Shaun kick off the episode by reflecting o…

1
Tackling Mental Health, How One Listener Helped Fix an Inaccessible App & Goodbye Kelly & Company 56:03

20d ago56:03

56:03

Steven Scott and Shaun Preece return to the inbox to read messages from the Double Tap audience and reflect on some powerful, personal topics. From the challenge of maintaining mental health as a blind person to frustrations with underpaid consultations, the duo explores how societal assumptions shape lived experience. Shaun shares how anxiety buil…

1
Special Offer from Hable & Global Listener Feedback 57:10

21d ago57:10

57:10

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into real-world accessibility wins, AI breakthroughs like Gemini Live, and listener feedback from around the globe. Plus, Hable Co-founder Freek van Welsenis shares a special offer on the Hable One and Hable Easy. The show kicks off with tech support frustrations, DNS workarounds, and the strange…

1
155. Tips to Transform Your Novel Into Trilogy 26:18

22d ago26:18

26:18

“Be here, be now. Be with your project as it exists right now.” — Beth Barany In this episode of How To Write the Future podcast, host Beth Barany answers a readers question on “Turning one novel into a trilogy.” She shares advice on how to start the process all the way how to enjoy your finalized, polished book. Beth also dives into topics such as…

1
Best Accessible Video Doorbell, Free Video Editors for Blind Creators & OrCam’s Return: What Really Happened? 58:20

24d ago58:20

58:20

Today’s Double Tap dives into accessible tech tips and real-life listener experiences. From smart doorbells to video editors, Steven and Shaun unpack the best tools, hidden features, and affordable solutions for blind and low-vision users. This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and S…

1
Episode 167 - Revealing our character by the setting. 26:48

25d ago26:48

26:48

Our setting descriptions should do more than describe a place. They can also show the reader much about our character. Here's how to do so. Also: what's the main thing our plot needs: trouble. Here's why. And how Edna Ferber worked. Support the showBy James Thayer

1
Misconceptions, Mattresses, and the Blind Truth 57:20

25d ago57:20

57:20

Is society really changing its attitude toward blind people—or just pretending? In this episode, Steven and Shaun unpack listener stories about misconceptions, mistreatment, and misguided “help” faced daily. Plus, a listener reviews the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to…

1
Why Glidance Delayed the Glide Until 2026 & Your Questions Answered 57:16

26d ago57:16

57:16

Amos Miller from Glidance returns to Double Tap with an update on the Glide device, confirming its launch delay to spring 2026. He discusses improved durability, new software features, and answers listener questions about outdoor performance, stairs, public perception, and more. This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible …

1
Your Feedback: App Recommendations, Android Accessibility & Rude People 57:22

27d ago57:22

57:22

It's Shaun Preece's birthday, and while gifts may be off the table, the jokes definitely aren’t. Steven and Shaun tackle listener questions ranging from Echo and Sonos setups to whether the Echo Show 8 can automatically show your Blink Doorbell feed. They also revisit the infamous Be My Eyes live video demo and explain why OpenAI’s rollout delays a…

1
Glidance Delayed, The Ideal O&M Toolkit & iOS Adventure Game Land Of Livia Released 56:34

28d ago56:34

56:34

This episode opens with reactions to the official announcement that the Glide device by Glidance is delayed until Spring 2026. Steven and Shaun preview their upcoming interview with CEO Amos Miller, offering insights into supply chain disruptions and tariff issues affecting many assistive tech manufacturers. Listener Chris shares his own customized…

1
154. World Building with Women Warriors, Interview with Pamela D. Toler 20:36

29d ago20:36

20:36

“There's been a long tradition of saying that women that women who ruled were exceptions, that women who fought were exceptions. That, you know, it's Joan of Arc, it's not GI Joan.,And that trap gets us over and over again, not just with women warriors.” — Pamela D. Toler In this episode of How To Write the Future podcast, host Beth Barany intervie…

1
Will the Future of AI Leave Blind Users Behind? 57:14

1M ago57:14

57:14

This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and Scribe. Get $20 off with code dt20 at https://pneumasolutions.com/ and enter to win a free subscription at doubletaponair.com/subscribe! In this thought-provoking episode, Steven and Shaun respond to the major news that OpenAI has acquired J…

1
Episode 166- Showing our character's thoughts. 24:30

1M ago24:30

24:30

Two mistakes can ruin our presentation of what our character is thinking: telling rather than showing, and interior monologue. Here are ways to present thoughts in a way that grabs the reader. Also, how Octavia Butler worked. And examples of wonderful character descriptions from masterful writers. Support the show…

1
Inside Aira’s AI Future with Google DeepMind 1:01:00

1M ago1:01:00

1:01:00

In this episode, Steven and Shaun sit down with Aira CEO Troy Otillio to unpack the company’s major collaboration with Google and DeepMind, announced at Google I/O. Troy discusses how this partnership will shape the future of visual interpreting for blind users, including the development of a new AI-powered visual interpreter model. He also explain…

1
Gemini AI and Accessibility: Google I/O 2025 Reactions 56:34

1M ago56:34

56:34

Google I/O 2025 was packed with futuristic AI reveals, and this episode explores how these innovations are already transforming tech for blind and low vision users. Steven Scott, Shaun Preece, and special guest Carrie Morales dive into Gemini’s new roles across search, mobile, and Chrome, highlighting real-world accessibility benefits and potential…

1
CSUN Reflections with Alison Sheridan & Steven’s New Sofa 57:42

1M ago57:42

57:42

Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback is offering 12% off your entire order with promo code DT12. Visit turtlebacklv.com to shop the full lineup! In this lively episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun catch up after a short break, diving into personal storie…

1
153. Science Fiction Brainstorming: Two Essential Tips 6:11

1M ago6:11

6:11

“Just really let your creativity flow. No censorship, no stopping to, is this right? Is this wrong? It doesn't matter.” — Beth Barany In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, host Beth Barany answers a question from a listener and shares her advice for those in the brainstorming stages of their novel. In “Science Fiction Brainstorming: Two …

1
New Newsletter & Steven’s Logitech K950 Review: Is It Better Than MX Keys? 56:52

1M ago56:52

56:52

Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback is offering 12% off your entire order with promo code DT12. Visit turtlebacklv.com to shop the full lineup! In this lively episode, Steven and Shaun reveal two big updates for Double Tap fans: a brand-new monthly newslet…

1
Episode 165 - The rule of exceptions. 28:41

1M ago28:41

28:41

Sometimes the strongest writing technique isn't the strongest in our story. Every writing rule has exceptions, and here's a discussion on when to make exceptions. Also, how to create a strong title for our novel and short story. Support the showBy James Thayer

1
Inside Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2025: What Tech Companies Are Doing 56:00

1M ago56:00

56:00

In this special Global Accessibility Awareness Day edition of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun are joined by top voices in tech accessibility, including Matt Ater from Vispero, Mike Buckley from Be My Eyes, Patrick Long from InnoSearch, and Apple’s Director of Accessibility, Sarah Herrlinger. Matt shares news of Vispero’s global rollout of accessible p…

1
Your Feedback: MagSafe Mystery, Document Detection & Your Favourite Music? 56:00

1M ago56:00

56:00

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into listener feedback covering MagSafe accessibility, document scanning frustrations, and the quirks of Apple’s AI. Plus, they get personal as they reveal their favorite music memories. The conversation starts with Kristi’s question about MagSafe—what it is, how it works, and why it’s not on eve…

1
New Apple Accessibility Features Announced, Samsung Launch S25 Edge & Is It Time To Switch To Android? 56:00

1M ago56:00

56:00

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun break down Apple’s newly announced accessibility updates ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day. From accessibility “nutrition labels” on the App Store to a full-featured Braille note-taker built into iOS 19, the team highlights major leaps forward for blind and low-vision users. They also explor…

1
152. Create An Original Religion for Your Story 10:55

1M ago10:55

10:55

“A well crafted religion can really add depth to your world building and create some incredible conflicts and tensions that can move your story forward.” In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, host Beth Barany discusses creating original religions in fiction, emphasizing the importance of core beliefs, rituals, and the impact of religion …

1
Mike Calvo, CEO of Pneuma Solutions: “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore." 56:00

1M ago56:00

56:00

In this powerhouse episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun welcome back Mike Calvo, CEO of Pneuma Solutions, for a no-holds-barred conversation about accessible tech, disability rights, and what it means to truly support the blind community — from within. Mike doesn’t hold back as he calls out ineffective DEIA policies, advocates for blind-led inno…

1
Your Feedback: Getting Real About Language, Job Insecurities & Putting Your Eyes On The Table 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

In this feedback-packed episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun open the inbox to highlight powerful listener stories and opinions that spark some of their most honest and passionate reactions yet. From questions about pursuing a cybersecurity career as a blind person to whether “blind” or “visually impaired” should be the default term — the discus…

1
Episode 164 - Design our cover? And the masters on setting details. 28:36

2M ago28:36

28:36

We are learning fiction techniques, and we are or soon will be skilled fiction writers. Does this mean we should design our own book covers? Also, Michael Chabon's terrific sense of smell. And the use of details in the haunted house. Support the showBy James Thayer

1
1000 Episodes Later: A Celebration of Community and Accessibility 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

It’s a major milestone as Steven and Shaun hit their 1000th episode of Double Tap! In this special edition, they’re joined by executive producer Marc Aflalo for a surprise celebration packed with heartfelt tributes from major names across the accessible tech world. You’ll hear messages from Amos Miller (Glidance), Mike Buckley (Be My Eyes), Kelly M…

1
Microsoft Announce New Surface Devices & Labelling On The Cheap 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun explore Microsoft’s latest Surface hardware announcements and what they mean for everyday users — including accessibility and hardware compromises. They share hands-on impressions and debate the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop’s specs, design changes, and what users should consider before upgrading…

1
WhatsApp Access Ends for Older iPhones & Windows on ARM Breakdown 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

On today’s episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece tackle big questions around digital access, legacy tech support, and the future of computing for blind and low vision users. The episode opens with breaking news: WhatsApp has officially dropped support for iPhones that can't run iOS 15.1. This has serious implications for blind users …

1
Accessible Glucose Monitors: Why Aren’t They Better Yet? 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

Can you really manage diabetes accessibly as a blind user? In this powerful episode, Shaun dives into the search for an accessible blood glucose monitor—and gets an eye-opening response from Tess Lockton, a visually impaired parent of a child with type 1 diabetes. From the frustrating reality of so-called “talking monitors” to the pros and cons of …

1
151. Writing Inclusive Fantasy for Modern Readers with Sci-Fi Fantasy Author, Aspry Jones 23:33

2M ago23:33

23:33

“If I could go back in time and tell 22-year-old me not to go into TV, but instead to center on what your heart was, the writing, and the creating stories, and creating characters and people. Do that instead.” — Aspry Jones In this episode of the How To Write the Future podcast, host Beth Barany talks to sci-fi fantasy author Aspry Jones, about his…

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