Breaking Barriers: Making Your Podcast Accessible with the Blind Blogger

Have you ever thought about how your podcast sounds to a visually impaired listener? Or how small changes could make a big impact on inclusivity? If not, you’re in for an eye-opening conversation. In this episode, host Mathew Passy sits down with Maxwell Ivey, affectionately known as the Blind Blogger, to share powerful, practical ways to make podcasts more accessible to everyone.

Maxwell, an accessibility advocate and founder of Accessibility Advantage, has devoted his life to helping others experience the digital world without barriers. Despite being visually impaired due to retinitis pigmentosa, Maxwell’s expertise in digital accessibility is unparalleled. Known for his insightful guidance, he’s here to teach us why accessibility isn’t just a checkbox but a way to connect with listeners more meaningfully.

What’s in it for you? Providing audio descriptions, accessible website navigation, and alternative text can forge a stronger bond with your listeners, increasing loyalty and expanding your reach. Maxwell covers it all—from why transcripts boost accessibility and SEO to the power of captions for broader engagement.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• The Impact of Audio Descriptions
• Maxwell explains how describing visual elements during your recordings can deepen the experience for visually impaired audiences, allowing them to feel fully included in your content.
• Making Podcast Players Accessible
• Discover how tools like WAVES and AudioEye can help ensure your podcast players are accessible, with properly labeled buttons and controls that work seamlessly with screen readers.
• Designing for Simplicity
• Simplifying your website’s navigation and adding alternative text for images makes it easier for people using adaptive technologies—and helps your SEO game, too.
• The Power of Transcripts and Closed Captions
• Transcripts aren’t just for accessibility; they also cater to younger audiences, with 37% of people under 35 preferring content with captions. Maxwell shares why every podcaster should consider adding this option.
• Maximizing Your Accessibility Efforts
• From consulting with clients to continuous improvements, Maxwell discusses how to approach accessibility as an ongoing practice that strengthens audience relationships and shows commitment to inclusivity.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• WAVES Accessibility Tool
• AudioEye

• Maxwell’s podcast picks:
• Michael Babcock Podcast
• "Podcasting Made Simple" by Alex Sanfilippo

• Follow Maxwell Ivy on Social media: 

LinkedIn - The Blind blogger Maxwell Ivy

Instagram - theblindblogger

Facebook - Maxwell Ivey Jr

Twitter - @maxwellivey

Youtube - @MaxwellIvey

• Technology in podcasting that assists visually impaired podcasters - Interlink 360 Video Camera
• Podcast event organizers that fosters inclusivity - Podfest
• A platform for connecting podcast hosts with potential guests - PodMatch

This episode is essential for podcasters committed to inclusivity. Join us to learn how small changes can make a huge difference in making podcasting accessible to all. Let’s make the podcasting world a welcoming place for everyone—tune in now!

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