Episode 160: Marketing That Includes: Digital Accessibility with Mike Barton (AudioEye)

What if your marketing didn't just build demand—but also made the internet more accessible for everyone? In this episode, Lorraine sits down with Mike Barton, VP of Corporate Communication & Content Marketing at AudioEye (and formerly Adobe), to explore why accessibility belongs at the center of brand strategy. You'll learn: A simple definition of digital accessibility (and how it differs from, yet relies on, inclusive design). Why accessibility is not a checkbox but an ongoing practice—and how to start wherever you are. The business case: stronger SEO, improved conversion, and loyal audiences (including friends/family networks). Quick wins for marketers: meaningful alt text, keyboard-friendly navigation, captions/transcripts for video, and intentional use of emojis and em dashes so screen readers don't derail your message. Content principles that endure in the AI era: simplicity, authentic storytelling, and the mantra "data informs, emotion transforms." How teams with smaller budgets can use technology + smart processes to make steady progress. A free way to scan your site and identify accessibility issues (Mike shares where to do it and what to expect). About Mike Barton Mike leads corporate communications and content marketing at AudioEye, a digital accessibility platform serving companies from startups to global enterprises. Previously at Adobe, he shaped content and executive messaging across Experience Cloud, Creative Cloud Enterprise, and Document Cloud. Mike specializes in aligning business goals with human needs through story-driven, accessible digital experiences.   Resources Mentioned AudioEye — free website accessibility scan (mentioned in-episode) Mike Barton on LinkedIn (connect & continue the conversation)   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: [email protected] Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-160-marketing-that-includes-digital-accessibility-with-mike-barton-audioeye Get full access to Lorraine Schuchart at lorraineschuchart.substack.com/subscribe