Mystic Access Podcast cover art

Mystic Access Podcast

Mystic Access Podcast

Written by: Chris Nova Kim Nova
Listen for free

The Mystic Access Podcast features discussions on assistive technology, as well as products and services we’re excited about. We focus on empowering people who are blind or visually impaired with practical, in-depth tools to help them fully maximize their access technology—while keeping things engaging and fun.© 2025 Mystic Access. All rights reserved.
Episodes
  • Browser Magic and Talking Time
    May 26 2026

    Welcome to today’s episode, featuring: Tabs, Time, and Techy Goodness! If you browse the web on a desktop or laptop, we’ve got tips, tools, and fun discoveries to make your online life smoother and more productive.

    But before we dive into demos, we have two exciting announcements for our community!

    Join Our Virtual Library Event — June 11

    Did you know you can borrow books from your local library without ever leaving home? You absolutely can, and we’re going to show you how! Join us on Thursday, June 11 at 8:00 PM Eastern for a free virtual event all about discovering the amazing digital resources your local library offers. We’ll talk about: Researching your local library Accessing digital audiobooks and ebooks Supporting your library while expanding your reading options Learning about library programs, guest speakers, and events Reconnecting with the community during a fun virtual evening together We’ve missed gathering with everyone and look forward to connecting again after so many months away. Be sure to register your free spot!

    Meet the Our Special Magazine Team — June 3

    Kim also shares news about a special event for readers of the Our Special magazine from National Braille Press! Join Kim, NBP editor Natalie, and several columnists on Wednesday, June 3 at 8:00 PM ET for a virtual conversation open to both current and former subscribers. During this hour-long event, you’ll: Learn more about the magazine Explore the women’s-interest topics it covers Hear about a brand-new feature added this year Share your feedback and ideas for the magazine’s future Meet the people behind the publication To attend, email editor at NBP dot org (replace with the @ sign and period and remove spaces), or check your inbox—and maybe your Spam folder too—for meeting details sent by Natalie last week.

    HelloTabs Demo—Tame Your Browser Chaos

    Next up, we explore a browser extension that may completely change how you manage tabs: HelloTabs. If your browser currently looks anything like Kim’s—dozens upon dozens of tabs open at once —this tool could become your new best friend.

    We demonstrate: Jumping instantly between tabs with keyboard shortcuts Smarter tab organization Customization and configuration options Better time management while working and browsing Faster navigation with less frustration You’ll even hear Kim flying effortlessly from tab to tab like a browser wizard. It’s available for Chromium-based browsers and Firefox alike.

    Steve’s Clock Returns!

    Speaking of time management, Chris introduces an old favorite: Steve’s Clock. This classic talking clock application for Windows may be old-school, but it still delivers plenty of charm and usefulness.

    In this demo, you’ll learn: How the talking clock works Ways to configure announcements and settings How it fits into a modern Windows workflow Why talking clocks are still surprisingly delightful

    Yes… it really was “a great time had by all.” we couldn’t resist the pun.

    Thanks for Listening!

    As always, thank you so much for spending your precious time with us. We appreciate every listen. We’ll see you in June!

    The post Browser Magic and Talking Time appeared first on Mystic Access Podcast.

    Show More Show Less
    52 mins
  • Library Cards, Libby, and a Mysterious New Podcast App
    May 12 2026

    Something exciting is brewing in the podcast world! We kick off this episode with a sneak peek at a brand-new podcast client for iOS that Chris has been beta testing. While we’re keeping the app under wraps for now, there’s already plenty to be excited about. We share some early impressions, favorite features, and why even longtime podcast app loyalists may want to keep this one on their radar. Better yet, the developer will be joining us in the magic castle when the app officially launches, so this is only the beginning.

    Then we head somewhere a little more classic… the library! Whether you love wandering the stacks in person or borrowing books while curled up in pajamas at home, today’s libraries offer far more than many people realize. We take a nostalgic trip through some of our library memories before talking about recently signing up for new library cards ourselves.

    After a quick house ad (they’re back, OG listeners), Kim gives a beginner-friendly overview of the Libby app and then walks through the basics of Hoopla, including how to sign up and start exploring what your library has available digitally.

    And if you’d like to dive deeper with us, we’re excited to announce our very first virtual event of 2026! Join Us Live — Thursday, June 11 at 8:00 PM ET. During this free virtual event, we’ll talk more about: * Getting and using library cards * The Libby and Hoopla services * Searching for and borrowing ebooks and audiobooks * Tips for getting started * Making the most of your local library resources We’ll also open things up so everyone can share favorite library services, reading discoveries, and tips of their own. If your talking book library doesn’t always have the titles you want—or you’re tired of long wait times—your local library might become your new favorite resource. Register for free by visiting the linked page above.

    As always, thanks for reading… we mean listening! We appreciate every single one of you.

    The post Library Cards, Libby, and a Mysterious New Podcast App appeared first on Mystic Access Podcast.

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
  • Smart Glasses & Small Speakers: Big Tech, Big Fun
    Apr 28 2026
    Episode Overview

    This episode kicks off with a little bit of magic—literally—as we head to the “magic castle” for a fascinating conversation with a special guest from HumanWare. We’re joined by Mathieu Paquette to explore a device that’s been generating serious buzz: the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Are these glasses just a flashy gadget, or do they offer real value for people with low or no vision? We dig into what makes them stand out, share some real-world stories, and highlight some very cool features. Whether you’re tech-curious or already intrigued, there’s a lot here to spark your imagination. And don’t blink—there’s a special announcement tucked into this segment about some exciting upcoming audio from us!

    Tiny Speaker, Big Sound

    Keeping the Bluetooth theme rolling, Kim takes the spotlight with a hands-on look at the Tribit Pocket Go speaker. Don’t let the size fool you—this little speaker packs a punch. You’ll get a full tour of the device, hear what makes it stand out, and of course, enjoy some audio samples so you can judge the sound quality for yourself. If you’re on the hunt for something portable without sacrificing performance, this might be your new favorite travel buddy. If you purchase from the above link, we may receive a small commission.

    In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

    • What makes the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses unique—and who they’re really for
    • Real-life use cases and standout features from our chat with HumanWare
    • A special announcement you won’t want to miss
    • A detailed demo of the Tribit Pocket Go speaker
    • Why “small but mighty” is the perfect description for this compact device
    Final Thoughts

    From futuristic eyewear to pocket-sized audio powerhouses, this episode is all about tech that fits into your life—and maybe even enhances it in ways you didn’t expect. Thanks so much for spending some time with us. We’re glad you’re here.

    The post Smart Glasses & Small Speakers: Big Tech, Big Fun appeared first on Mystic Access Podcast.

    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_c
No reviews yet