1. Episode Summary
In this episode of Blind Level Tech, Evan Starnes and Jonathan Price talk with Shanell Matos, Community Manager at RightHear, about accessible wayfinding, independence, and the difference between being guided and being empowered. Shanell explains that RightHear is spelled with “hear” — H-E-A-R — and is built to give blind and low-vision users meaningful orientation information without taking away choice or autonomy.
The conversation covers how RightHear uses Bluetooth beacons, smart markers, GPS awareness, and a free mobile app to help users understand what is around them in real time. Shanell also shares how businesses can install RightHear, how users can advocate for accessible locations, and why accessible orientation is especially important in airports, hospitals, libraries, conferences, hotels, emergency situations, and even nature trails.
A major theme of the episode is independence with responsibility. RightHear does not replace a cane, guide dog, or orientation and mobility skills. Instead, it gives users the “lay of the land” so they can move through spaces with more confidence, awareness, and dignity. RightHear’s official site confirms that its system uses Bluetooth beacons, markers, a free app, and audio guidance to support blind and low-vision navigation and orientation.
2. Contact Info
Guest: Shanell Matos
Role: Community Manager, RightHear
Organization: RightHear
Website: RightHear official site — the correct domain is listed in the citation; the transcript’s spoken “write-here” phrasing appears to be a transcription/spelling issue.
Community / Advocacy Resources: RightHear offers advocacy templates, community meetups, and resources for requesting RightHear at preferred locations.
Aftersight
Website: aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Producer Contact
Jonathan Price
Podcast and Program Producer, Aftersight
jonathan@aftersight.org
(720) 712-8856
3. Show Credits
Show: Blind Level Tech
Host: Evan Starnes
Co-host: Jonathan Price
Guest: Shanell Matos
Guest Organization: RightHear
Producer: Jonathan Price
Presented by: Aftersight
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