The Digital Access Show
Welcome to The Digital Access Show. We meet with everyone to discuss everything related to digital accessibility, what it is, how to implement it, and who it truly benefits.
Season 3 Episode 28 - Does social media consider digital accessibility?
This week on The Digital Access Show, Laetitia Thompson from the Centre for Accessibility Australia explores how social media can both help and hinder digital accessibility. Drawing on her experience working in social media, Laetitia shares practical tips and insights for making social platforms more accessible for everyone.
Season 3 Episode 27 - The Neuroscience behind communication.
This week on The Digital Access Show, Allan Parker OAM dives into how our brains process communication, why accessibility matters, and practical ways we can connect more effectively. Tune in for a conversation that will change the way you think about communication.
Brisbane 2032: Building an Accessible Olympic Legacy
Episode Notes
How can Brisbane 2032 set a new benchmark for accessibility? We explore digital accessibility, inclusive sport, transport, volunteering and the legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games with leaders from the Gold Coast Active Inclusion Program.
The Missing Step on the Property Ladder: Digital Accessibility
Episode Notes
On this week's episode of The Digital Access Show, David Easton from Support Finance Group shares his perspective as a mortgage broker dedicated to helping people within the NDIS community—from participants to carers—turn the dream of homeownership into reality. He explores why no one should be left behind on the journey to the property ladder, highlighting the barriers many still face in an increasingly digital world. David also sheds light on the shortcomings of online banking platforms involving digital accessibility, calling for greater compassion, inclusion, and a stronger commitment to designing digital experiences that...
How Braille and Assistive Technology Changed My Life with Marisa Sposaro
Episode Notes
In Episode 24 of The Digital Access Show, Marisa Sposaro joins Narelle Wright to discuss her journey as a Braille user and how assistive technology has transformed the way she works, communicates and lives independently. Together they explore Braille literacy, screen readers, digital accessibility and why the right technology can make all the difference.
Episode 23: Can AI Really Improve Digital Accessibility?
Episode Notes
Is AI the answer to digital accessibility? Or are we asking the wrong question?
This week on The Digital Access Show, Narelle Wright is joined by Jesse Costelloe and Marzieh Tafreshi to explore the exciting, and sometimes challenging, future of AI, innovation and accessibility.
From personalised AI assistants and agentic AI to privacy concerns and inclusive design, this conversation looks beyond the hype to ask one important question:
How can technology create a more accessible world without leaving people behind?
If you're curious about where AI is...
Website Accessibility and Inclusive Design with David Oram
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle Wright speaks with David Oram from Atomic Web Strategy about practical website accessibility, inclusive design, and the common barriers that stop people from accessing online information. They discuss keyboard accessibility, accessible WordPress themes, menus, sliders, hover effects, forms, error messages, ARIA live regions, programmatic relationships, colour contrast, and why accessibility should be built into every website from the start. If you build, manage, audit, or own a website, this conversation will help you understand why accessible websites are not just better for people with disability, but...
Inclusive Education, Neurodivergent Students and Digital Accessibility with Clinton Hale
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle Wright speaks with Clinton Hale about how education has changed for neurodivergent students and students with disability. They discuss learning plans, teacher support, parent advocacy, assistive technology and why digital accessibility matters in every classroom.
NDIS Changes, Digital Accessibility and Participant Rights with Aaron Orme
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Aaron Orme from Vision Management and Coordination about the proposed NDIS changes and what they could mean for participants.
As both disability professionals and NDIS participants, Narelle and Aaron discuss:
• Digital accessibility and why it matters• Inaccessible websites, forms and invoices• Choice and control under the NDIS• Risks created by inaccessible information• Digital payment reforms and participant protections• Accessible communication for people with disability• Provider responsibilities and best practice• The impact of poor accessibility on independence and trust
This conversatio...
Epilepsy, Gaming and Resilience: Tim Durrant on Finding New Ways Forward
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Tim Durrant from Lightmare Studios about living with epilepsy, the role gaming played in developing fine motor skills and social connections, and how technology can create more inclusive digital experiences. They also explore accessibility in gaming, the future of AI, and the resilience needed to overcome life's challenges.
Digital Accessibility, Neurodiverse Learning and the Future of Education with Belinda Vesey-Brown
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Belinda Vesey-Brown from Brio Group and Coach Aandi about digital accessibility, neurodiverse learning and the future of education. Belinda shares how cognitive overload, inaccessible digital content and one size fits all teaching can affect children with ADHD, dyslexia and other learning differences. The conversation explores how AI and accessible technology could help create personalised learning experiences that build confidence, reduce overwhelm and support every child to learn in their own way. From step by step learning to mood based lesson adjustments and gamified education...
Breaking Barriers with Nystagmus: Frank Paolino’s Story of Resilience and Leadership
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Western Australian MLA Frank Paolino about living with congenital nystagmus, a vision impairment that causes rapid involuntary eye movement. Frank shares the challenges he faced growing up, from bullying and struggles with reading to being told he would never drive a car. He also talks about adapting to technology, working in politics with a vision impairment, and the importance of resilience, inclusion, and finding another way forward. This is a powerful conversation about disability, determination, and embracing what makes us different.
You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know with Sonia Tremblay
Episode Notes
Sonia Tremblay shares how one conversation about digital accessibility completely changed the way her team designs websites. From accessible headings and meaningful buttons to inclusive design practices across global clients, Sonia explains why accessibility is not complicated — it’s about awareness, detail and doing better for everyone.
Episode 15 Accessible Events, Digital Accessibility and Inclusion with Vanessa Norman
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle chats with Vanessa Norman about creating accessible events and improving digital accessibility across business communications.
Vanessa shares practical insights from running national NDIS events and explains how simple accessibility considerations can make conferences, presentations, and digital content more inclusive for everyone.
Topics discussed include:
Planning physically accessible events Supporting people with hearing, vision, and sensory needs Creating accessible presentations and documents Providing Auslan interpreters and quiet spaces Making websites and digital communications more accessible Why accessibility is often easier and more...Episode 13 - Cybersecurity and Disability: Staying Safe Online in an Accessible World
Episode Notes
People with disability face higher risks online, from scams to inaccessible security systems. In this episode, Luke Irwin from Aegis Cybersecurity shares practical tips to stay safe while navigating digital barriers. Learn how businesses and individuals can do better to protect data and improve access.
Episode 13 - Auslan, Audio Description and Accessibility in Live and taped Shows
Episode Notes
What does true accessibility look like in live events, theatre, and video content?
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle brings together experts in audio description, Auslan interpretation, and digital accessibility to explore how inclusive experiences are created and where gaps still exist.
You will hear from:• Belinda Vesey-Brown on accessible design and video remediation• Shannon Kettleton on deaf access, Auslan, and community needs• Megan Bytheway on theatre interpreting and preparation• Shari Indriani Irwin on the art and challenge of audio description
This honest and practical conversation covers:•...
Season 3 Episode 12 - Building Accessible Transport & Digital Inclusion with Jodi Kneepkens
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, we sit down with Jodi Kneepkens, founder of Going Daily Assisted Transport, to explore how one idea turned into a powerful, accessibility-focused service.
Jodi shares her journey from support work to launching an accessible transport business designed to give people greater independence and choice. But it didn’t stop at transport. Jodi made a conscious decision to ensure her entire digital experience, from website to booking system, is fully accessible.
Designing for real voices - AAC, Accessiblity and Inclusion
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with speech pathologist Janelle Sampson about augmentative and alternative communication and the many ways people express themselves beyond speech. They explore tools such as symbols, devices, and eye gaze technology, and discuss why communication is about connection, not just words. Janelle shares practical insights on reducing assumptions, respecting each person’s voice, and creating more inclusive digital and real world environments so everyone can communicate in a way that works for them.
Season 3 Episode 10 - What if communication didn’t rely on speech alone?
Episode Notes
What if communication didn’t rely on speech alone?
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle sits down with speech therapist Libby Brownlie to explore keyword sign—a powerful yet often overlooked communication strategy that supports people who have difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
Libby explains how keyword sign works, who it helps, and why it remains an essential tool in the world of disability and augmentative communication. From children with developmental delays to adults with brain injuries, keyword sign offers a practical, human-centred way to connect.
You’...
Season 3 Episode 9 - How to Make Disability Expos Truly Accessible
Episode Notes
Are disability expos and networking events really accessible? In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Sue Wickham and Rosie Putland about the simple, practical steps event organisers can take to remove barriers. From better venue information and accessible marketing to guide dog facilities and presenter training, this conversation explores how to build trust and create inclusive events that work for everyone.
Season 3 Episode 8 - Why isn't disability represented more in marketing?
Episode Notes
Simone Eyles from Disinfluencer candidly shares what it's like to build a marketing business around disability inclusion and to help bring inclusivity to disability for other brands and businesses.
Season 3 Episode 7 - How does digital accessibility affect the deafblind community?
This week's guest is Melanie Robertson from Deafblind Information Australia. We focused on topics around digital accessibility via website audits, the quality of online platforms the deafblind community is used to, and much more.
Season 3 Episode 6 - Navigating Digital Accessibility in the UK.
This week's guest is Matthew Horspool. He works in assistive technology, training others to use digitally accessible technologies. Matthew candidly shares what it's like to live in the UK as not only someone who works with digital accessibility, but also as someone with a disability that depends on that very technology he trains others to use.
Season 3 Episode 5 - Does web design and digital accessibilty go hand in hand?
This week's guest is Nick Hosking from KN Website Design and the Do Better Campaign. Nick helps illuminate what digital accessibility truly asks from web developers and designers, and whether DIY website builders can create accessible environments.
Understanding Inclusion: A Conversation with Tommy Trout
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle sits down once again with disability advocate and educator Tommy Trout, founder of Disbranded and Inclusive AF. Together, they dive into the complex, sometimes confronting, but deeply important history of disability in Australia—and what it teaches us about inclusion today.
Tommy shares powerful insights from his work, including stories of hidden pioneers, the impact of institutionalisation, and why understanding our past is essential for creating a more accessible future. Narelle and Tommy explore what inclusion really means, how businesses can take meaningful action, an...
The Colour Code: Designing for True Accessibility
Episode Notes
In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle is joined by brand designer and accessibility specialist Shannon Towell for a deep dive into the world of colour accessibility. From contrast ratios to colour‑blindness considerations, Shannon breaks down how colour shapes user experience — and why relying on colour alone can leave people behind.
Shannon also shares the story behind her innovative multicolour contrast checker, a tool designed to help creators, designers, and brands quickly assess and improve the accessibility of their colour palettes. Whether you're building a website, refreshing a brand, or simpl...
Mark Muscat talks screen readers and braille devices.
Episode Notes
Explore how screen readers and braille devices help people with blindness or low vision access digital content. Narelle chats with Mark Muscat from Digital Access Solutions about accessibility tools, common barriers, and why inclusive design is essential for every website and app.
Season 3 Episode 1 - Kim Amor from KN Website Design
Episode Notes
Digital accessibility starts with mindset, not technology.
In the Season 3 opener of The Digital Access Show, host Narelle Wright (DASAT) speaks with Kim Amor from KN Website Design about why accessibility is still being missed — and how education, not effort, is the biggest barrier.
The conversation explores how accessibility and SEO work together, challenges the myth of “I don’t have clients with disability”, and explains why accessible digital communication improves outcomes for everyone.
Topics covered:
Mindset as the foundation for accessibility
Accessibility and SEO alignmen...
Reflections and learnings - Craig Shanahan
Episode Notes
Craig Shanahan has made a habit of turning a negative into a positive. As the Blind Chef, Craig worked out how to open a cafe that was to become the go to in the area. Why? Craig gives the answers in t his episode.
Reflections and Learnings - Luna Rose
Episode Notes
Voting is a mandatory requirement in Australia. Every person also has the right to vote without letting others know who you vote for. However, when you have a disability such as low or no vision, it can be hard to vote
Luna Rose has no vision. Ever wonder how she votes and what are the barriers that she has to voting?
Reflections and Learnings - Paul Price
Episode Notes
Paul Price is a sound engineer with Reading Radio. He has lived with disability all his life. What has Paul had to do to try to get access to information? How does it make a person feel when, to access information, they have to take the extra measures that Paul had to do?
Our Christmas gift to you.
Episode Notes
Christmas is a time of giving. So this year we are giving some tips and tricks for you to put into practice in the coming weeks. Reece Crawford joins us to learn as well. Have a wonderful christmas and a happy new year.
Reflections and Learnings - Shiralee McKitrick
Episode Notes
Shiralee McKitrick is a special lady. She not only has a rare disability herself, she and her partner, Simone, are raising two sone with disability. It really was a case of "You don't know what you don't know". Since being diagnosed herself Shiralee and her family have gone on a journey with a difference. What has that to do with communication and digital accessibility? Have a listen.
Reflections and Learnings - Emma Bennison
Episode Notes
Emma Bennison is a leader in the Vision Impaired community. Emma, along with Graeme Innes, Vaughan Bennison and others have created a group called Blind Leaders United. In today's episode Emma discuss usable digital communication
Reflections and learnings - Santiago Valesquez
Episode Notes
Santiago Valesquez came to Australia as a child. He, like everyone, has issues catching public transport. However, Santiago has found a solution. Hear Santiago discuss the solution for people missing buses and the way to make public transport more efficient for us all. See www.hailo.co (http://www.hailo.co) for more information
Reflections and Learnings - Jaceen Ross talks disability and rural area issues
Episode Notes
Living with disability in a regional area of Australia comes with some extra challenges. From the lack of services to transport life is different to those who live in the city. Jaceen Ross discusses her experiences of living with disability in regional Queensland.
Reflections and Learnings - Alyce Carter Edwards
Episode Notes
Alyce is a hearing impaired lady who teaches us about the challenges that she experiences in every day life. It is sad at times that she struggles to get t he message through.
Reflections and learnings - Patrick Dillon
Episode Notes
Patrick Dillon had an accident which changed his life forever. Assistive technology has given him independence.
Reflections and Learnings - Meryl Evans is a digital accessibility advocate in USA.
Episode Notes
Meryl Evans was born profoundly deaf. She is a professional speaker, and trainer, accessibility marketing consultant and all round nice lady. What is accessibility for Meryl.
Season 2 Finale - Allan Parker and Marc Muscat
Season 2 Finale - Allan Parker and Marc Muscat
It's the Season 2 Finale! DASAT’s Allan Parker and Mark Muscat join Narelle to wrap up The Digital Access Show for this year. They dive into the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 review, digital accessibility shifts across the EU, and what’s next for the show!