Tag Archives: Access Tech Live

Access Tech Live: Tech Discussions from a Disability Perspective

Guest post by Jeff Graham

In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed, staying informed about the latest gadgets and innovations is essential. However, for individuals with disabilities, understanding how these advancements fit into their lives is even more crucial. “Access Tech Live,” a groundbreaking TV show on AMI-tv bridges this gap by exploring technology from a disability perspective.

What to Expect from Access Tech Live
Hosted by the dynamic duo of Steven Scott and Marc Aflalo, “Access Tech Live” dives into major tech news, discussing phones, tablets, and other devices while keeping in mind the question, “How would someone with a disability use it?” This unique perspective ensures that the show not only highlights new technologies but also evaluates their accessibility and practical use for people with disabilities.

Each episode features hands-on demos, thorough product reviews, and insightful discussions. The show also brings in voices from the disability community, including individuals who share how new and existing tech aids them in their daily lives. By speaking with key figures from startups to tech giants like Apple, Google, Microsoft, Samsung, Amazon, Honda, and Ford, “Access Tech Live” offers a comprehensive view of the tech landscape.

When and Where to Watch
“Access Tech Live” airs live every Thursday at noon ET on AMI-tv. If you miss the live broadcast, don’t worry—reruns are available multiple times throughout the week. Additionally, the show is streamed across all major social platforms, ensuring you can tune in from anywhere.

Bringing the Show to Major Tech Events
The show’s reach extends beyond the studio, as Steven and Marc bring “Access Tech Live” to significant events like CES, the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference, and the Zero Project Conference. They also cover major industry announcements and conferences such as Apple’s WWDC, Google I/O, Microsoft Build, and more. This on-the-ground coverage provides viewers with the latest updates and exclusive interviews from the heart of the tech world.

Noteworthy Interviews from Season 1
Season 1 of “Access Tech Live” featured a stellar lineup of interviews with industry leaders and influencers, including:

  • Jay Blahnik, Head of Apple Fitness+
  • Sarah Herrlinger, Head of Accessibility at Apple
  • Christopher Patnoe, Google’s Head of Accessibility
  • Hector Minto, Dave Dame, and Jason Brommett from Microsoft’s accessibility team
  • Celine Lee from Amazon
  • Stephanie Cadieux, Canada’s Chief Accessibility Officer
  • Philip Rizcallah, CEO of Accessibility Standards Canada
  • Caroline Casey, Founder of The Valuable 500
  • Influencers like Madison Tevlin and Molly Burke
  • Game development companies, including Xbox

These conversations delve into how these leaders and companies are working to make technology more inclusive and accessible.

A Platform for Important Stories
“Access Tech Live” stands out as one of the few weekly shows dedicated to discussing technology through the lens of accessibility. By telling important stories and shining a spotlight on the work being done to level the playing field, the show addresses topics that many are hesitant to explore. The hosts ask the hard questions, ensuring that the discussions are not only informative but also transformative.

“Tech has the power to break down barriers, promote independence, and enhance accessibility, which can be life-changing for many people.” says host, Marc Alfalo. “By focusing on this perspective, I aim to raise awareness, inspire innovation, and advocate for more inclusive designs. This show is not just about showcasing technology; it’s about fostering a more inclusive society where everyone can benefit from technological advancements.”

Whether you are a tech enthusiast, a person with a disability, or someone interested in the intersection of technology and accessibility, “Access Tech Live” offers valuable insights and information. Tune in to join the conversation and see how technology can truly be inclusive for all.

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AMI-tv announces second season of Access Tech Live

From a media release:

Accessible Media Inc. (AMI) is thrilled to announce the renewal of its hit AMI-tv show, Access Tech Live, for a second season. Hosted by Steven Scott and Marc Aflalo, Access Tech Live focuses on the intersection of technology and accessibility.

Following an incredibly successful first season, Access Tech Live has become a platform for important conversations about accessibility and inclusivity. The show has featured interviews with some of the biggest names in tech, including Jay Blahnik, Vice President of Fitness Technologies at Apple; Stephanie Cadieux, Canada’s Chief Accessibility Officer; Caroline Casey, founder of The Valuable 500; Google’s Head of Accessibility and Disability and Inclusion, Christopher Patnoe; and Sarah Herrlinger, Senior Director of Global Accessibility at Apple; amongst many others.

Access Tech Live‘s mission is to tell tech stories from the point of view of people with disabilities and has had important conversations around Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Autism Awareness Month and Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

The show has broadcast live from locations around the globe, including CES 2024 in Las Vegas, the Zero Project Conference in Vienna, CES Unveiled in Amsterdam, the CSUN Conference in California, and, most recently, a special episode for International Albinism Awareness Day in Halifax.

“We aren’t afraid to push the boundaries on the places we go and conversations we have,” says host Steven Scott.

Access Tech Live has connected with AMI-tv viewers in an unprecedented way,” says John Melville, Vice-President of Content Development and Operations of AMI-tv/AMI-audio. “We’re looking forward to a new season of Steven and Marc’s conversations discussing how technology can benefit people of all abilities.”

Stay tuned for more exciting discussions and interviews in the second season of Access Tech Live, only on AMI-tv. Stream past episodes for free and on demand at AMI+.

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AMI-tv announces its fall 2023 programming schedule

From a media release:

Today, AMI unveiled its AMI-tv schedule for the 2023-24 fall broadcast season, with a lineup of exciting new and returning AMI originals available in described video for the blind, partially sighted and disability community in Canada.

In addition to new seasons of AMI-tv’s live daily shows, NOW with Dave Brown and Kelly and Ramya, AMI invites viewers to join host Bobbi Janzen for a new crop of accessible exercises in Healthy at Home, engage in technology conversations through Access Tech Live, and learn about those who demonstrate a desire to help drive positive social change through sport in Level Playing Field.

“AMI-tv’s robust fall schedule has something for everyone,” says John Melville, Vice President of Content Development and Operations, AMI. “From health and technology to sport and entrepreneurs and our daily live shows, we’re spotlighting and furthering the conversation on disability.”

Highlights of AMI-tv’s fall schedule include:

NOW with Dave Brown – weekdays at 9 a.m. Eastern
Join veteran broadcaster Dave Brown, weekdays at 9 a.m. Eastern, as he discusses the latest news, entertainment, sports and current events through a disability lens.

Kelly and Ramya – weekdays at 2 p.m. Eastern
Airing weekdays at 2 p.m. Eastern, Kelly and Ramya gives a dynamic and compelling voice to the disability experience in Canada. Stay tuned for more information later this fall regarding a special primetime broadcast of Kelly and Ramya’s annual holiday party.

Healthy at Home – Season 2 returns Wednesday, September 6, at 7 p.m. Eastern
Fitness instructor Bobbi Janzen guides viewers through an hour-long home workout that tones and strengthens for everyday living. Bobbi gives step-by-step detailed instruction that focuses on the muscle groups overused when using a white cane or guide dog, fitness advice for wheelchair users, and overall tips for better health.

Access Tech Live – Season 1 debuts Thursday, September 14, at Noon Eastern
As previously announced, Access Tech Live is a live weekly broadcast, hosted by Marc Aflalo and Steven Scott, that promises an interactive experience for viewers and the ability to cover technology news as it unfolds.

Level Playing Field – Season 4 returns Tuesday, October 3, at 9:30 p.m. Eastern
Hosted by Paralympian Greg Westlake (Para Sport Update, above), Level Playing Field introduces viewers to the athletes, community groups, healthcare professionals and grassroots innovators who demonstrate a desire to help drive positive social change through sport. Among the athletes featured in Season 4 are Para athletics sprinter Marissa Papaconstantinou, Para climber Chaz Misuraca and Toronto Raptors’ star Pascal Siakam’s generous donations to the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.

Disrupt – Season 2 returns Monday, October 23, at 9 p.m. Eastern
Hosted by the charismatic Taylor Olson, Disrupt showcases music, short films, poetry, animation, spoken word, comedy, dance, puppetry and other mediums, with a disability-first punk rock attitude. Disrupt also features members of the disability community working in such key production roles as production manager, writer, assistant editor, assistant director, composer, assistant production designer and camera and sound assistants.

Mind Your Own Business – Season 3 returns, Wednesday, November 15, at 9 p.m. Eastern
Hosted by Kevin Shaw and with the help of mentors, entrepreneurs in the disability community aim to take their businesses to the next level. Businesses featured in Season 3 include Liberty Co consultants, Glass Brothers Construction Inc., Friendly Roads Mobility Service and Country Fields Beekeeping Supplies.

All dates subject to change. Additional fall programming will be announced in the coming weeks. Stream past episodes of AMI original programming on demand post-broadcast on AMI.ca or via the AMI-tv App.

About AMI-tv
AMI-tv is the world’s first television network to broadcast all programs with open format described video for individuals who are blind or partially sighted and is broadcast daily into more than eight million Canadian homes as part of the basic digital cable package with most service providers. AMI-tv is committed to broadcasting a variety of content with a focus on accessibility and inclusion.

About Accessible Media Inc.
AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through accessible media, reflection and portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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