Change Makers: A Podcast from APH

Hosted by American Printing House

Business Technology

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Episodes

131

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

American Printing House has a big goal: a future that belongs to everyone. For more than 160 years APH has created products that provide access for people who are blind or low vision. To create a world that welcomes everyone, we know it's going to take a lot of change makers. Join us as we highlight the people who are making the biggest difference in our field. We'll talk to everyone from CEOs to students. Know someone we should highlight? Email communications@aph.org.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 11, 2026Episode 14618 min

Cast Member Spotlight: Dan Mancina

On today’s episode, we’re continuing our series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience.The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening this October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or have low vision, each sharing authentic stories.The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, highlighting the many roles blind individuals hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives.And today, we’re learning about Dan Mancina. Not only is he a Cast Member for The Dot Experience, he is also a skateboarder… and today we get to hear his story. Hello Chris and welcome to Change Makers.On this episodeNarratorSara Brown, APH Public Relations ManagerDan Mancina, The Dot Experience Cast Member and SkateboarderAdditional LinksThe Dot ExperienceDan Mancina on InstagramEmail Change Makers

May 28, 2026Episode 14543 min

Cast Member Spotlight: Chris Downey

On this episode of Change Makers, we’re continuing our series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience. The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening in October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or have low vision, each sharing authentic stories. The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, highlighting the many roles individuals who are blind or low vision hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives.On this episode, learn about Chris Downey. Chris is an architect, planner, and consultant who lost his sight entirely in 2008 following surgery to remove a brain tumor. Not only is he a Cast Member for The Dot Experience, he is also the Founder and owner of Architecture for the Blind. After his interview, enjoy our monthly Tech Takeaway where you'll learn five Monarch tips to keep you engaged over the summer.On this episode (In order of appearance)NarratorSara Brown, APH Public Relations ManagerChris Downey, The Dot Experience Cast Member, Founder and Owner of Architecture for the BlindJennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product SpecialistMichael Dennis, APH Technology Product SpecialistAdditional LinksThe Dot Experience websiteArchitecture for the Blind websiteEmail Change Makers

May 14, 2026Episode 14441 min

ADA Title II Ruling: What it Means

On this episode, we are diving deeper into the recent ADA Title II ruling. This ruling impacts your experience when visiting websites, apps, and other digital content.Paul Schroeder, American Printing House for the Blind, Vice President Impact and OutreachSarah Malaier, American Foundation for the Blind Senior Advisor of Public Policy and Research InstituteCynthia Curry, Director of the National Center on Accessible Digital Educational Materials & Instruction at the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice (IDRPP) at Utah State University.Jan McSorley, Accessibility consultant for KnowbilityAdditional LinksADA websiteAmerican Foundation for the BlindNCADEMI (pronounced "N-cademy") websiteA Primer on ADA Title II and WCAG for State Educational Agencies and School DistrictsMeeting the ADA Title II Web and Mobile Accessibility: A Roadmap for State and Local Educational AgenciesQuality Indicators for the Provision and Use of Accessible Materials in PreK-12 SystemsIncluding Accessibility in All Components of Procurement: A Guide for State Educational Agencies and School DistrictsEdTech Accessibility Directory

April 23, 2026Episode 14336 min

Cast Member Spotlight: Kathy Martinez

On this episode, we’re kicking off a new series of spotlight episodes featuring the incredible cast of The Dot Experience. The Dot Experience is a new inclusive museum opening in October. It features more than 20 individuals who are blind or have low vision, each sharing authentic stories. The cast includes advocates, artists, professionals, athletes, students, parents, and workers, all highlighting the many roles blind individuals hold in society and showcasing vibrant, diverse lives.This month's Cast Member Spotlight highlights Kathy Martinez. After the interview with Kathy, you’ll hear from Jennifer Wenzel and Michael Dennis with this month’s Tech Takeaway. They’ll share information about the recent patch update for the Monarch.On this episode (In order of appearance)NarratorSara Brown, APH Public Relations ManagerKathy Martinez, The Dot Experience Cast Member, Senior Advisor for InclusivelyJennifer Wenzel, Technology Product SpecialistMichael Dennis, Technology Product SpecialistAdditional LinksRead the blog entry highlighting Kathy MartinezEmail Change Makers

April 9, 2026Episode 14232 min

Building Braille Futures: Games and Books

On this episode of Change Makers, we’re exploring how braille is helping shape the future. From a fun new braille word game on the Monarch, to inspiring programs like Braille Tales and the American Action Fund for Blind's Braille Books Program that provide braille books to children from birth through age 17.On this episode (In order of appearance)Jason Martin, Technical Innovations Product ManagerChristine Genovely, APH Braille Tales CoordinatorMelissa Riccobono, Braille Specialist for American Action Fund for Blind Children and AdultsAdditional Links and InformationWordstock for MonarchSign up for Braille TalesDonate to Braille TalesSign up for Braille Books Program - American Action FundAmerican Action Fund can be contacted at 410-659-9315Email American Action FundEmail Melissa Riccobono

March 26, 2026Episode 14132 min

2026 CES Review Part 2 & Tech Takeaway

On this episode we’re continuing our journey through the Consumer Electronics Show. Then, we’ll wrap up with our monthly Tech Takeaway, where we’ll explore six new apps featured in the recent 1.4 update.On this episode (In order of appearance)NarratorSara Brown, APH Public Relations ManagerGena Harper, Professional Athlete, Executive Business WomanMike May, APH ConsultantJennifer Wenzel, Technology Product SpecialistMichael Dennis, Technology Products SpecialistAdditional linksIndigo Nav App - Apple StoreIndigo Nav App - Google Play StoreMike May's Podcast - The People Make the PlacesGena Blind Woman of Action - InstagramGena Blind Woman of Action - TikTokGena@GenaHarper.com

March 12, 2026Episode 14041 min

2026 CES Review Part 1

On this episode of Change Makers, we’re heading to Las Vegas for the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show, better known as CES, where the future of technology is on full display. We’re talking cutting-edge, innovative, and game-changing tech, with a special focus on what’s being developed for people who are blind or have low vision.After that, we'll turn our attention to the Abacus Bee. Held the first weekend of March, this exciting competition brought nearly 30 students from 10 different states together to put their mental math skills to the ultimate test. The focus? Speed. Precision. And serious number power. Before the competition began, I caught up with a few of the students to hear how they were feeling, and what it took to prepare for this big moment.On this episode (in order of appearance)Sara Brown, APH Public Relations ManagerMike May, APH ConsultantGena Harper, Professional Athlete, Executive Business WomanJennifer Brooks, Braille Challenge Organizer, APH Outreach Regional SpecialistAdditional LinksEmail Change MakersGena Harper Instagram - genablindwomanofaction

February 26, 2026Episode 13942 min

Making Math Accessible & Monarch 1.4 Updates

On this episode of Change Makers enjoy an episode filled with innovation, insight, and practical tools to support learning and accessibility. Enjoy a close look at an exciting new release from APH Press... a book designed to make math more accessible, engaging, and achievable for all learners.After that, we’ll shift our focus to technology with our monthly Tech Takeaway. This segment keeps you up to date on the latest tools and features designed to enhance your experience. This month, we’re diving into the Monarch 1.4 update, highlighting new features, improvements, and practical tips to help you get the most out of the platform.At the end of the episode, hear about the recent Braille Challenge. Hear from a few participants before the challenge began.On this episode (In Order of Appearance)Zach VandeZande, APH Press Managing EditorJennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product SpecialistMichael Dennis, APH Technology Products SpecialistBraille Challenge participantsAdditional LinksAccessible Mathematics Education for Students With Visual ImpairmentsMeet MonarchPurchase a Monarch

February 12, 2026Episode 13838 min

What’s New, What’s Improved: APH Products

On this episode of Change Makers enjoy a closer look at APH’s newest and modernized products. Hear from product experts about tools like BOP-K, Grid and Go, and Braille Bridge, all crafted to boost braille and tactile literacy. Discover how these innovations are changing the way learners engage with accessible materials.On this episode (In order of appearance)Sarah Lee, Product SpecialistRachel Bishop, Braille Product ManagerKaren Poppe, Braille and Tactile Literacy ManagerLaura Zierer, Product Manager Over General Education and the ArtsAdditional LinksBOP K - Coming soonGrid and GoGrid and Go activity guide or booklet (PDF)Grid and Go activity guide or booklet (BRF)Braille BridgeEmail Change Makers

January 22, 2026Episode 13736 min

2025 Year in Review & 2026 Outlook: Part 2

The conversation continues with APH’s leadership team as they reflect on the challenges and momentum of 2025 and look ahead to a pivotal 2026. Hear leaders discuss the growing urgency of digital accessibility in education, the expansion of the Monarch platform, the rise of eBraille, and the upcoming opening of The Dot Experience as a major public-facing milestone.The conversation highlights resilience, courage, and a recommitment to APH’s mission amid rapid technological change. Hear personal reflections, including Craig Meador’s thoughts as he prepares for retirement and the importance of continuing to push forward rather than pulling back. We wrap up with a Tech Takeaway focused on Monarch’s one-handed mode, showcasing how inclusive design expands access for a wider range of users. On this episode (in alphabetical order)Jo Haas, Vice President of Advancement and The Dot ExperienceAnne Lancaster, Vice President, Chief Officer, Innovation and StrategyCraig Meador, Ed. D., APH PresidentPaul Schroeder, Vice President of Impact and OutreachJennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product SpecialistMichael Dennis, APH Technology Product Specialist

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