iBUG Today: Empowering the Blind through Accessible Technology Training

This Tech Doctor podcast episode features Robert and Allison interviewing Michael McCulloch and Sandhya Rao, President and Vice President of iBUG Today (iBlind Users Group), about their organization’s history and activities. Michael, a retired NASA engineer, explains how iBUG began in 2011 with a workshop at the University of Houston after he received his first iPhone with VoiceOver, eventually growing from 5 initial members to serving approximately 6,500-7,000 people annually. Sandhya shares her journey from having a rare brittle bone condition that affected her vision to becoming involved with iBUG, emphasizing the organization’s focus on empowering blind people through accessible technology training and social activities. The discussion covers iBUG’s various offerings including weekly “Buzz” calls, monthly Apple workshops, specialized training programs, and numerous social events ranging from Star Trek viewings to a monthly book club and a weekly movie night, all conducted virtually through Zoom. All iBUG services are provided by volunteers. There is no charge for any of what iBUG has to offer. To learn more about iBUG Today, click Here To download or read a text base recap of what was covered in the podcast click Here