In this episode of Technically Working, Michael sits down with JJ Meddaugh, founder of Blind Bargains and AT Guys. Together, they explore JJ's journey through entrepreneurship, tech, and accessibility, offering listeners a mix of inspiration, insights, and humor.

• The Origins of Blind Bargains
  JJ shares how Blind Bargains started as a resource for finding affordable tech and accessible products, evolving into a platform for podcasts and breaking industry news.

• From MobileSpeak to AT Guys
  Learn how JJ transitioned from software sales to physical products and scaled AT Guys into a respected name in accessibility.

• Accessible E-Commerce Challenges
  JJ breaks down the evolution of shipping logistics, adopting Shopify, and maintaining customer trust through accessible user guides and high-quality customer service.

• AI's Role in Accessibility and Business
  Hear JJ's thoughts on how AI tools, like image and video description technology, are improving accessibility and where they still fall short.

• Tech and Tools Talk
  Discussion about tools like Synology NAS, Home Assistant, accessible keyboards, and power banks, including insights into how AT Guys evaluates products for their catalog.

• The Importance of Community and Feedback
  JJ emphasizes how customer suggestions and partnerships drive AT Guys' growth and product selection.

• Blind Bargains -- www.blindbargains.com
• AT Guys -- www.atguys.com
• Home Assistant -- www.home-assistant.io
• Zoom Accessible Recorders -- Zoom Products on AT Guys
• Meter Smart Meat Thermometers -- Meter on AT Guys
• Shokz Bone Conduction Headphones -- Shokz on AT Guys
• Top Tech TIDBITS (Email Newsletter) -- Subscribe to Tidbits

• Follow JJ on Mastodon: @jage@mas.to
• Reach AT Guys: jj@atguys.com
• Contact Technically Working: feedback@technicallyworking.show
• Follow Michael on Mastodon: @payown@dragonscave.space

This episode offers a candid look at the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in the accessibility space. From crafting business strategies to embracing new tech trends, JJ's story is a testament to adaptability and passion.

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In this episode of Technically Working:

• Smart Power Strips: Michael and Damashe explore the pros and cons of using Meross smart power strips, including their functionality and limitations.
• Contact Management Chaos: A humorous and reflective discussion on cleaning up years of cluttered contacts and managing digital address books.
• macOS 15.1 and 15.2 Updates: They dive into the fixed Notification Center with VoiceOver, issues with the broken Escape key in the Dock, and the usability of LaunchBar.
• Garage Door Installations: Damashe shares his experience getting a garage door installed and his plans for smart garage upgrades.
• Audio Setup Insights: Michael highlights tools like the DJI Lavalier mics and explains how he enhances recorded audio with Auphonic.
• Task Management Tools: The duo compares Apple Reminders, Todoist's new deadline feature, and the potential of OmniFocus for staying organized.
• AI Adventures: A discussion about ChatGPT, Google's AI Studio, and Android XR, emphasizing their potential for accessibility and productivity.
• A Tribute to John Panarese: A heartfelt farewell to a beloved community member.

Stay tuned for insights, humor, and a tribute to someone who made a lasting impact.

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TW88 Damashe records from home, sharing mic challenges with the Shure Beta 87A while Michael humorously notes their avoidance of news. They introduce a special offer for 'tip jar' subscribers and discuss Jetpack CRM, highlighting a 40% discount until December 31, 2025, and the importance of data privacy. The duo explores marketing funnels and analytics, touches on Jetpack CRM accessibility, and shares insights on hidden business costs. They also discuss Mac battery life and keyboard shortcuts before wrapping up with podcast preferences, expressing gratitude for their supportive listeners.

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In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Demasi dive into the tech tools that have recently saved their day. From office heaters and robot vacuums to the intricacies of setting up tech for a wedding, they cover it all. They also discuss the pros and cons of various tech services, including Zoom, Riverside, and different CRM tools. Plus, they share their experiences with ChatGPT and MacGPT, and how these tools have integrated into their workflows.

Key Topics:

1. Office Heaters and Robot Vacuums: - Michael's search for a small office heater. - The allure of Dyson products. - The debate over robot vacuums and their practicality.

2. Tech Setup for a Wedding: - Michael's experience setting up AV for a wedding. - The tech tools used: Tribit Stormbox Blast, Mackie mixer, Gemini microphones, Vocaster, MacBook Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro Max, Firago, Loopback, Zoom, and DJ app. - Challenges faced and lessons learned.

3. Zoom vs. Riverside: - Issues with Zoom's billing communication. - The decision to cancel Riverside in favor of Zoom.

4. Tech Tools and Services: - The importance of communication and reminders for subscription renewals. - The struggle with managing multiple streaming services and subscriptions.

5. ChatGPT and MacGPT: - Michael's experience with the ChatGPT app on Mac. - The pros and cons of using voice mode vs. text input. - The integration of ChatGPT with MacWhisper for generating bug reports.

6. Black Friday Purchases: - Demasi's new tech acquisitions: UTECH Bolt Fingerprint lock, Reolink doorbell camera, and Home Hub Pro. - The benefits of these new tools and how they fit into his home security setup.

7. Jetpack CRM: - Michael's use of Jetpack CRM for invoicing and integrating with Stripe. - The potential of Jetpack CRM to streamline business operations.

Listener Shoutout: A big thank you to all our listeners for tuning in! Your support and feedback mean the world to us.

Tip Jar Supporters Promo: For our amazing Tip Jar supporters, we have an exclusive offer just for you! Check your Tip Jar subscriber podcast feed for a special discount on Jetpack CRM. If you're not a Tip Jar subscriber yet, head over to technicallyworking.show and show your support to get access to this and other exclusive content.

Connect with Us:

• Email: feedback@technicallyworking.show
• Mastodon:
• Michael: @Payon@dragonscave.space
• Damashe: @Damashe@unmute.community
• Use the hashtag #technicallyworking (please capitalize the T and W for better screen reader accessibility).

Thank you for listening, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

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This week, Michael and Damashe are joined by Taylor Arndt, a WordPress plugin developer and all-around AI enthusiast. Taylor shares how she’s using AI to do everything from coding smarter to managing accessibility projects, and even navigating the quirks of driverless cars (spoiler: grass patches may be involved).

Here’s What We Covered:

• Meet Taylor: Accessibility specialist, plugin wizard, and fan of all things AI. Oh, and she works for Techopolis, which Michael just realized spells "TOS" (terms of service, anyone?).
• AI Tools Galore: Taylor’s setup includes VS Code, GitHub Copilot, Cursor.ai, and ChatGPT. She even uses Humanize AI to make sure her writing doesn’t get flagged as “too robotic.”
• The Plugin Process: From brainstorming names to spec sheets in Microsoft Loop, Taylor spills the details on how she builds WordPress plugins like WPGPT and WPAI Search.
• AI Gets Creative: Want to control your entire WordPress site with AI? Taylor’s on it. Plus, she’s building local models and experimenting with tools like Hugging Face and Llama for even more AI magic.
• Adventures in Transportation: Taylor’s experience with Waymo’s driverless cars is equal parts futuristic and hilarious. (Pro tip: Don’t get dropped off in the middle of a grassy patch.)
• What AI Can’t Do...Yet: Taylor dreams of AI that could vet clients and streamline complex decisions—because who doesn’t want a digital assistant that just gets you?

Where to Find Taylor:

• Website: Techopolis for all her plugins and services.
• Socials:
• Mastodon: @tayarndt@techopolis.social
• LinkedIn: Taylor Arndt
• BlueSky: @tayarndt
• Email: taylor@techopolis.online

Taylor’s blend of tech know-how and relatable moments (hello, Panda Express misadventure) makes this episode a must-listen. Don’t forget to share the show with a friend and tag #TechnicallyWorking when you do!

Get in Touch: Send your feedback to feedback@technicallyworking.show.

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In this episode, Michael and Damashe vent about the headaches of web browsing with screen readers and dig into why keyboard shortcuts don’t always work the way they should. They talk about using VoiceOver, JAWS, and other tools to navigate the web, sharing what’s been working—and what’s just plain broken.

The conversation shifts to managing tech workflows, including tips on handling digital clutter and writing smarter LinkedIn posts with AI. It’s a mix of tech gripes, practical fixes, and the usual back-and-forth you’ve come to expect.

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Michael and Damashe discuss optimizing work setups, from Mac Minis to automation tools like Hazel, and weigh the benefits of DIY versus ready-made membership systems. They also share updates on Unmute Presents and plans for a new Q&A format.

• Join Bits
• Noodlesoft – Simply Useful Software
• Paid Membership Pro

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