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 Editor
• Jennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product Specialist
• Michael Dennis, APH Technology Products Specialist
• Braille Challenge participants

Additional Links

• Accessible Mathematics Education for Students With Visual Impairments
• Meet Monarch
• Purchase a Monarch

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 Specialist
• Rachel Bishop, Braille Product Manager
• Karen Poppe, Braille and Tactile Literacy Manager
• Laura Zierer, Product Manager Over General Education and the Arts

Additional Links

• BOP K - Coming soon
• Grid and Go
• Grid and Go activity guide or booklet (PDF)
• Grid and Go activity guide or booklet (BRF)
• Braille Bridge
• Email Change Makers

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 Experience
• Anne Lancaster, Vice President, Chief Officer, Innovation and Strategy
• Craig Meador, Ed. D., APH President
• Paul Schroeder, Vice President of Impact and Outreach
• Jennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product Specialist
• Michael Dennis, APH Technology Product Specialist

On this two-part series, we’re talking with APH’s leadership about the moments that defined 2025. The wins, the challenges, and everything in between. Plus, we’ll take a look at what’s coming next as we head into 2026 

On this episode (in alphabetical order)

• Jo Haas, Vice President of Advancement and The Dot Experience
• Anne Lancaster, Vice President, Chief Officer, Innovation and Strategy
• Craig Meador, Ed. D., APH President
• Paul Schroeder, Vice President of Impact and Outreach

On this episode of Change Makers, we’re diving deeper into the world of Be My Eyes. Hear directly from the creator of this groundbreaking app and discover how it can help you navigate and troubleshoot your everyday tech gadgets with confidence. 

On this episode

• Narrator
• Sara Brown, APH Public Relations Manager
• Hans Jørgen Wiberg, Founder of Be My Eyes

On this special two-part episode Change Makers, hear from the creator of the innovative app, Be My Eyes. Hear how it originated, early feedback, and what’s next for the groundbreaking app.  

On this episode

• Narrator
• Sara Brown, APH Public Relations Manager
• Hans Jørgen Wiberg, Founder of Be My Eyes

Additional Links

• Be My Eyes Website
• Be My Eyes in the App Store for iPhone
• Be My Eyes in the Google Play Store
• Be My Eyes for Windows

On this episode, we explore the remarkable and personal journey of receiving a new guide dog, a process that goes far beyond simply picking up a companion. Gain insight into what happens for the dog and partner, the intensive training both undergo, and the emotional transition that comes with building trust and teamwork.

On this podcast

• Narrator
• Sara Brown, APH Public Relations Manager
• Danielle Burton, APH Accessibility Editor

Additional Links

• Guide Dogs for the Blind
• Guide Dogs of America
• America's VetDogs
• The Seeing Eye

On this episode of Change Makers go inside the 2025 Annual Meeting held at the Louisville Marriott Downtown. For over a century, this gathering has brought together leaders, educators, and innovators in the field of blindness and low vision. You’ll hear firsthand from presenters, award winners, and attendees about the highlights, breakthroughs, and moments that made this year’s event unforgettable.

Stick around after the recap for our monthly Tech Takeaway, where we show you how to personalize your Monarch device.

On this episode (in order of appearance)

• Stephanie Steffer, CViConnect 
• Gabriel Einsohn, Marketing and Product Development The Puzzled Co.
• Tracy Gaines, CTEBVI Executive Director
• Connie Stone, National Prison Braille Network speaker
• Willow Free, APH Technical Innovations Product Manager
• Greg Stilson, APH Vice President of Digital Transformation
• Dr. William Wiener, Wings of Freedom award recipient
• Lee Nasehi, President and CEO of VisionServe Alliance
• Isaac Shapiro, Co-CEO and President of Cleanlogic
• Jennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product Specialist
• Michael Dennis, APH Technology Products Specialist

Additional Links

• CViConnect
• The Puzzled Co. website
  • Memory Puzzles: Shapes
  • Memory Puzzles: Fruits & Veggies
  • Meet Your Match with Memory Puzzles: Shapes
  • Blog - My Sight: A Hands-On Curriculum Empowering Students
• CTEBVI
• VisionServe Alliance
• Cleanlogic Body Care
• National Prison Braille Network

On this episode of Change Makers, step into The Dot Experience. We're live from construction site for a press conference celebrating a major milestone in the construction and a special announcement.

Speakers

• Jo Haas, APH Vice President, The Dot Experience
• Phoebe Wood, APH Board Chair
• Craig Meador, Ed. D., APH President
• Dwight Newton, Zoeller Water Pump, Corporate VP Human Resources - Chief People Officer

Additional Links

• The Dot Experience
• Zoeller Pump Company

On this episode, learn about CJ Threads and how it helps students learn Python code. After that, Tech Takeaway discusses an exciting new feature now available on the Monarch.

On this episode

• Narrator
• Sara Brown, APH Public Relations Manager
• Katrina Best, APH STEM Product Manager
• Michael McDonald, APH Senior Software Engineer 
• Jennifer Wenzel, APH Technology Product Specialist
• Michael Dennis, APH Technology Products Specialist

Additional Links

• CJ Threads
• Code Jumper
• Monarch Tech Support - 833-447-8444 
  • Hours 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. est
• Email Monarch Support