The ADNA Presents

The Audio Description Network Alliance presents this interview series with professionals and other experts.

The ADNA Presents: accessibility strategist Erin Lucas 07/29/2025

The ADNA Presents: accessibility strategist Erin Lucas In this episode of The ADNA Presents, accessibility strategist Erin Lucas shares how her career journey took her from art school to government tech, a Chicago startup, and Microsoft, all while shaping a human-centered approach to accessibility. Erin discusses how familiar voices build trust, and why accessibility is more than compliance. From building relationships with campus disability services to scaling accessibility work at a global tech company, Erin offers honest insights, creative strategies, and stories from behind the scenes. If you're in the field or just curious about accessibility, this conversation blends humor, heart, and practical advice. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/37510350

The ADNA Presents: Steph McCoy of Bold Blind Beauty (with a call to action) 07/22/2025

The ADNA Presents: Steph McCoy of Bold Blind Beauty (with a call to action) In this episode of The ADNA Presents, Roy Samuelson sits down with the unstoppable Steph McCoy, founder of Bold Blind Beauty, and all-around inclusion trailblazer. Steph opens up about her personal journey from losing her sight to finding her purpose, building a global community along the way. From the heart of her platform (think AIR: Access, Inclusion, Representation; and EPIC: Equity, Passion, Impact, Courage), Steph shares how Bold Blind Beauty is making a new definition on what blindness and beauty really mean. We talk real talk: the challenges of running a mission-driven platform solo, the power of storytelling to bust through stigma, and why Steph is ready for more hands (and hearts) to join the Bold Blind Beauty mission. If you're curious how one person's story can spark a movement? This episode's for you. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/37447740

Tanusree Sharma 2 of 2 07/15/2025

Tanusree Sharma 2 of 2 What if your voice could be stolen? In Part Two, Dr. Tanusree Sharma reveals the hidden risks behind voice AI: how the same recordings that powered tools like Siri and Alexa are now being cloned, weaponized, and monetized without consent. She introduces PRAC3-a bold new framework blending privacy, reputation, and accountability with traditional consent models-and calls AI leaders to rethink how they handle voice data before trust is lost for good. From creative rights to biometric identity, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of synthetic speech. Join us and explore why voice governance can't wait. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/37407840

The ADNA Presents: Synthetic Truths with Tanusree Sharma 07/07/2025

The ADNA Presents: Synthetic Truths with Tanusree Sharma What if audio was your only signal of trust in a digital world saturated with AI? In this compelling episode of The ADNA Presents, I spoke with Dr. Tanusree Sharma-assistant professor at Penn State and researcher at the intersection of AI, security, and digital authenticity. We explored how audio description (AD)-originally designed to make media accessible to blind and low vision audiences-is evolving into a critical signal of trust for everyone. From anime to e-learning, from synthetic voice to stolen identity, this conversation dives deep into what it means to create ethical, empathetic, and secure systems in an AI-saturated ecosystem. Dr. Sharma's insights for AI leaders are clear: - How to treat audio when developing AI - What AI system designs should include - Who to recognize as pioneers in media literacy If you work in voice tech, AI policy, or digital storytelling, this episode is a must. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/37327545

233 - Jeremy Seda - A11y Camp 2025 06/28/2025

233 - Jeremy Seda - A11y Camp 2025 What does Jiu-Jitsu have to do with digital accessibility? For Jeremy Seda? Everything. In this episode, the North Idaho College IT Accessibility Coordinator shares how his love of storytelling, empathy, and positive reinforcement shapes his fight for inclusion, both in tech and on the mat. With deeply personal stories, a refreshing call for progress over perfection, and game-changing insights into the power of accessible design, Jeremy invites us to rethink what true connection looks like. Oh, and AI-powered audio description pitches? Don't miss this one. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/37199980

The ADNA Presents: Behind the Mic: How We Built Our Comic-Con Panel on Audio Description 06/25/2025

The ADNA Presents: Behind the Mic: How We Built Our Comic-Con Panel on Audio Description Featuring Anna Capezzera, Colleen Connor, and Serina Gilbert. This conversation pulls back the curtain on our upcoming Comic-Con panel about audio description. Panelists talk about why they signed on, what matters to them in this work, and what they hope the audience takes away. Each brings a different piece of the puzzle. Colleen trains writers. Anna works behind the scenes on production logistics. Serina ensures quality control at the final stage. Together, they paint a clear picture of what it takes to make audio description accurate, effective, and emotionally engaging, especially in complex worlds like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. They also talk about the bigger picture: why this work needs more attention, how decisions about AD get made, and what happens when it’s done well, or not at all. If you’re curious about how blind audiences experience media, and the people making that possible, this is worth a listen. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/37108170

The ADNA Presents: Yvonne Mastromano: Virginia Voice 06/10/2025

The ADNA Presents: Yvonne Mastromano: Virginia Voice In this episode, Roy Samuelson welcomes Yvonne Mastromano, the passionate CEO of , a nonprofit that's all about making the world more accessible for people who are blind or print disabled. Yvonne speaks from the heart about her deep love of the arts and the power of storytelling, and how audio description opens doors to shared experiences in theaters, museums, sports events, and more. She offers a beautiful look into the nuances of live versus recorded audio description, highlighting the human connection and sense of belonging that live experiences can create. Yvonne also shares exciting initiatives Virginia Voice is launching, from guided nature walks, to rich, pre-show descriptions that help listeners step more fully into the world of performance. But what stands out most is her reminder that this work isn't charity, but community. It's about making sure everyone, regardless of sight or ability, gets to participate in the beauty and complexity of life. Through her words, we're reminded that inclusion isn't an add-on, it's a responsibility we all share. More at /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36930590

The ADNA Presents: Mike Hess 05/27/2025

The ADNA Presents: Mike Hess Expanding Market Reach Through the Power of Disability in the Workplace Mike Hess of Blind Institute of Technology highlights the significance of AD expanding market share for movies and other digital content. He emphasize that the market for people with disabilities is substantial, amounting to trillions globally, and that including AD can attract a larger audience. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36736950

229 - chatgpt interview with human voice 05/13/2025

229 - chatgpt interview with human voice Last week was the interview with ChatGPT, with it's synthetic voice. Here's the twist - today is the same interview, this time featuring Rebecca Davis, AD Performer, giving her take on the script. Enjoy! /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36520070

228 - An Interview With ChatGPT 05/06/2025

228 - An Interview With ChatGPT In this episode, I interview ChatGPT and we explore the multifaceted world of audio description. We discuss the importance of emotional nuance and high quality narration in creating immersive experiences for blind audiences, the challenges of balancing quality with scalability, and the potential role of synthetic voices in the future. We also touched on the value of integrating audio description into the production process from the start, ensuring it becomes a standard seamless part of storytelling overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of quality advocacy and innovation in making visual content truly inclusive. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36449205

The ADNA Presents: Serina Gilbert, QC The Last Of Us, Season 2 04/29/2025

The ADNA Presents: Serina Gilbert, QC The Last Of Us, Season 2 In this episode, Roy Samuelson interviews Serena Gilbert, a quality control expert in audio description (AD). Serena explains her passion for AD and how it equalizes the viewing experience for visually impaired individuals, allowing them to engage in water cooler conversations and enjoy shows alongside sighted friends and family. Roy and Serena discuss the importance of quality control in AD, emphasizing the need for communication, understanding of context, and the involvement of blind professionals in the process. Serena shares her journey into the field, the collaborative nature of her work, and the recognition she received for quality control on high-profile titles such as 'The Last of Us.' The discussion highlights the critical role of quality control in ensuring that AD tracks are accurate, culturally appropriate, and enhance the overall viewing experience. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36296815

The ADNA Presents: Alyscia, Independent Filmmaker 04/22/2025

The ADNA Presents: Alyscia, Independent Filmmaker Alyscia is an independent filmmaker that believes inclusivity includes disabled audiences, and she's included closed AD in her screenings. She shares her process in this short and insightful interview. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36266390

The ADNA Presents: A Conversation with The Dark Room Podcast 04/09/2025

The ADNA Presents: A Conversation with The Dark Room Podcast In this exciting episode of ADNA Presents, host Roy Samuelson welcomes Lee Pugsley and Alex Howard from the Dark Room Podcast. Lee Pugsley, a visually impaired actor, producer, writer, and director, shares his passion for storytelling and accessibility in media. Alex Howard, an accessibility consultant and co-host of the Dark Room podcast, joins the conversation to discuss the importance of AD. They delve into their love for AD, the reasons behind starting their podcast, and the gaps in understanding and quality within audio description. They also touch upon their positive and negative experiences with feedback from the industry, and envision a future where audio description is universally present. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that also covers their personal wishlist for the future of audio description and how you can advocate for better accessibility in media. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/36072845

Mindy May and Melody Goodspeed: Flourishing Through Inclusion: How Accessibility Transforms Workplaces and Sparks Connection 03/18/2025

Mindy May and Melody Goodspeed: Flourishing Through Inclusion: How Accessibility Transforms Workplaces and Sparks Connection New for 2025! On The ADNA Presents podcast, host Roy Samuelson dives deep into the heart of disability inclusion in the workplace with two powerhouse guests: Melody Goodspeed and Mindy May. Melody, Associate Director of Development at the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), shares how authentic storytelling and connection can inspire donors and corporations to invest in accessibility, not as charity, but as a strategic advantage. She sheds light on the damaging impact of outdated perceptions of blindness and challenges companies to reframe inclusion as a pathway to excellence and innovation. Mindy, a certified career coach and HR strategist, reveals how bias still blocks opportunities for disabled professionals, and what leaders can do about it. From inclusive hiring practices to mentorship and accessible tech, she outlines actionable steps companies can take to create workplaces where everyone can flourish. Together, they explore how accessibility benefits us all, with real-world examples like curb cuts and closed captions - and how small, intentional shifts can transform company culture, boost retention, and spark meaningful engagement. They also discuss the surprising value of integrating audio description into workplace settings as a tool for deeper inclusion. Their message? Start small, lead with empathy, and let connection drive change. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/35767480

The ADNA Presents: Sam Wilkins 03/11/2025

The ADNA Presents: Sam Wilkins The Evolution and Nuances of Audio Description: A Conversation with Samuel Wilkins How does audio description differ between the US and the UK? How is it evolving across TV, film, live theater, and even sports? And what role do audiobook narrators play in shaping immersive AD experiences? In this compelling episode of The ADNA Presents, host Roy Samuelson sits down with Samuel Wilkins, a seasoned audiobook producer and narrator, to unpack the intricacies, artistry, and future of AD. Together, they explore: 🔹 The key differences in US vs. UK AD styles 🔹 The delicate balance between detail and distraction in effective description 🔹 The growing role of blind professionals in shaping the future of AD 🔹 How audiobook narration skills enhance storytelling in AD 🔹 Innovative approaches that push AD beyond traditional boundaries while maintaining quality Whether you’re an AD professional, a storyteller, or someone who values inclusive entertainment, this episode is packed with insights that will expand your perspective on accessibility, immersion, and the power of voice. Listen now and join the conversation on the future of audio description! /episode/index/show/theadna/id/35600850

The ADNA Presents: Bill Larson (2025) 03/05/2025

The ADNA Presents: Bill Larson (2025) The Mic Drop: Roy Samuelson Chats with Eagles Voice Bill Larson Roy Samuelson interviews Bill Larson, the voice of the Philadelphia Eagles and a passionate audio description performer. Despite their differences, both fields demand precision, preparation, and a deep connection with the audience. Bill's journey into audio description was accidental but life-changing. "Once I realized how many people rely on AD, I was hooked," he says. His announcing background helps him bring the same energy and timing to AD, ensuring audiences stay immersed. "Whether it's a touchdown or a dramatic scene, people count on me to deliver," Bill shares. His advice? "Prepare relentlessly and never give up." Find Bill's work at Bear Hug VO—a name as warm as his voice. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/35551205

221 - The ADNA Presents: Marin Miller 06/25/2024

221 - The ADNA Presents: Marin Miller This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/31885062

220 - The ADNA Presents: Stephanae McCoy 05/07/2024

220 - The ADNA Presents: Stephanae McCoy Stephanae McCoy of Bold Blind Beauty shares the behind the scenes of how she uses her platform to demystify blindness through storytelling /episode/index/show/theadna/id/31178062

219 - The ADNA Presents: Christian Cruz 04/02/2024

219 - The ADNA Presents: Christian Cruz This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/30612048

218 - The ADNA Presents: Renee VanAusdall 03/26/2024

218 - The ADNA Presents: Renee VanAusdall Renee Van Ausdal is an audio description enthusiast, and her perspectives align so well with what this ADNA Presents podcast has set out to share; we’re excited to bring this podcast to you. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/30483913

217 - The ADNA Presents: David Strugar 03/05/2024

217 - The ADNA Presents: David Strugar This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/30160723

216 - The ADNA Presents: Bill Sarine - Possibilities 02/27/2024

216 - The ADNA Presents: Bill Sarine - Possibilities This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/30063593

215 - The ADNA Presents: Tanja Milojevic (2024) 02/20/2024

215 - The ADNA Presents: Tanja Milojevic (2024) This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29987463

214 - The ADNA Presents: Brandon Cole 02/13/2024

214 - The ADNA Presents: Brandon Cole This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29940623

213 - The ADNA Presents: Asiamarie Domingo 02/07/2024

213 - The ADNA Presents: Asiamarie Domingo This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29834658

212 - The ADNA Presents: Sag awards 2024 with Jon Brockett and Jen Coyne-Hoerle 01/23/2024

212 - The ADNA Presents: Sag awards 2024 with Jon Brockett and Jen Coyne-Hoerle Jon Brockett (Executive Producer), and Jen Coyne-Hoerle (Supervising Producer), of SAG Awards joins The ADNA Presents in conversation about their efforts with AD for digital screeners and the live show itself! /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29579403

211 - The ADNA Presents: Juan Alcazar (2024) 01/16/2024

211 - The ADNA Presents: Juan Alcazar (2024) Audio Description professionals include the role of quality control. Juan speaks to his experiences professionally, and - as a content creator himself - some of the challenges and opportunities he faces in navigating his creative contributions. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29501743

210 - The ADNA Presents: Bob Bergen 01/08/2024

210 - The ADNA Presents: Bob Bergen Bob Bergen, three time Emmy nominee, voice of Porky Pig, and hundreds of other animated characters, has talents that exceed his voice acting! He discusses leadership, mentorship, his initiatives at the TV Academy, home of the Prime Time Emmys, and why perfomers, partiularly AD performers, recognition matters. Professionalism echoes throughout this interview! /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29359513

209 - The ADNA Presents: Hannah Waymouth 12/26/2023

209 - The ADNA Presents: Hannah Waymouth This Audio Description Network Alliance series interviews your favorite audio description professionals for movies, series, and more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29076483

208 - The ADNA Presents: Chad Allen 12/19/2023

208 - The ADNA Presents: Chad Allen Chad Allen. Magician. Disability consultant, usability consultant for video games, and creator of Unseen Comic. This is far reaching conversation on audio description and so much more. /episode/index/show/theadna/id/29076573

The ADNA Presents

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