PODCAST · education
Mystic Access Podcast
by Chris Nova, Kim Nova
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.
Episodes
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A Health Tool, Walking Adventures, and Amazing Voices for Your Mobile Devices
We have several topics to cover in this episode, but first we want to remind you about our spooky treats sale going on every weekend throughout October. Check out MysticAccess.com/shop every Thursday morning to learn which product has been heavily discounted. Sales only run Thursday mornings...
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A Day without Technology and Handy Victor Stream Updates
We have an interesting story and some demos to share in this episode, but first, a couple reminders. Our two-session Understanding GPS event ended up being postponed by one week. We both weren’t feeling our best the weekend we intended to record, and we didn’t want to give a half-baked...
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Navigating Patreon, a Site Improvement for Customers, and Upcoming Event Reminders
We begin this episode with a few event reminders. Coming up on Thursday, September 17 is our latest free virtual event, When Not to Rely on AI. If possible, AI is an even bigger hot-button topic than ever in the news cycle, and while we feel there are positives, this event focuses heavily on the...
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Kitchen Nightmares, Structuring Your Day, and Mystic Access News
A Little Admin, a Near Kitchen Disaster, GPS, AI, and Getting Structured! In other words, there’s a lot going on in Mystic Access Land this time around! We’re sharing several important announcements, talking about a serious AI-related experience that nearly led to a kitchen nightmare, previewing...
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YouTube, Talking Books and Taming the Lawn
New Updates, YouTube Fun, Talking Books & Lawn-Care Adventures! This episode is a bit of a smorgasbord—and we think you’ll find plenty to dig into! We kick things off with a reminder about You’ve Got YouTube, then celebrate a major update to the National Library Service’s digital Talking Book...
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Theme Songs, Described Graphics, and Evolving in the Castle
Today’s episode begins… well, we’ll let you figure out the surprise about that beginning. It leads us into a discussion of AI, how it both hurts and helps, and a few cool things we as blind and low vision folks do with it that others may never consider. Kim also discusses why, particularly as a...
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AI, Air Quality & Almanzos
YouTube, Tech Talk, Weather Apps & Little House? Yep…It’s One of *Those* Episodes! This week, we have a delightful smorgasbord of topics, so grab your favorite beverage and come hang out with us! You’ve Got YouTube! We’re kicking things off by telling you all about our upcoming two-part virtual...
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Baking, Browsing, and a Blast from the Past
Did you notice a recent surprise bonus episode in your podcast feed? Before joining Mystic Access, Chris was part of Sendero Group, one of the pioneers in accessible GPS technology. That episode is a special retrospective that takes a walk down memory lane while catching up with several former...
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Sendero Memories; A trip back in time
In this special bonus episode of the Mystic Access Podcast, we’re delighted to share a memorable piece of history from the “The People Make the Places — Mike May and Friends podcast.” With Mike’s generous permission, we’re featuring this episode here because Sendero Group played such a meaningful...
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Yesterday’s Email Once More
In this episode, return with us to the email simplicity of yesterday… or at least, a couple decades ago. Chris is demoing Quickmail, a public beta Windows program developed by Kelly Ford. It’s a screen reader first program, and there’s a lot we love about it. Here are a few things to know. •...
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A Sound Approach to Tech
If you enjoyed our last episode, you’re in luck! This one continues the theme with more helpful tools, fun discoveries, and practical demos to make everyday life a little easier—and a lot more enjoyable. Don’t Forget Our Library Event! Before we dive into today’s topics, here’s a friendly…
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Browser Magic and Talking Time
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…
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Library Cards, Libby, and a Mysterious New Podcast App
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,...
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Smart Glasses & Small Speakers: Big Tech, Big Fun
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…
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Artemis, Audiobooks, and Adventures Beyond Earth
This episode is truly out of this world—and not just metaphorically. We kick things off by diving into the excitement surrounding the recent Artemis II mission, NASA’s bold step toward returning humans to the Moon. We share our personal experiences following the mission, how we stayed connected…
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Rewind with Us: How Mystic Access Began
In this special episode, we’re doing something a little different… we’re telling a story—our story. But before we hop in the time machine, we’ve got an exciting announcement that longtime listeners (and newcomers!) won’t want to miss… — Special Announcement: A Classic Returns! We’re thrilled to...
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The DA2 Debut Plus a Bose Curveball
If you love curling up with a good book from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, this episode is especially for you. We recently received our brand-new Digital Advanced Players (DA2) from the library, and of course we couldn’t resist taking them for a thorough spin. We...
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The Quest for Better Bars (and Better Browsing)
Do you love an episode that gives you a little bit of everything? High tech, low tech, practical info, and a dash of surprise? Yes, please. WiFi That Thinks It’s Invincible? In this episode, we kick things off with a deep dive into the Invincible Wifi internet Package from Spectrum. Chris walks…
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Tactile Art and Talking Prescriptions
This episode is a delightful mixed bag—in the best possible way. We’ve got two very different low-tech demos, a juicy tech update for the gadget lovers, and one topic that surprised even us. Think of it like Kim’s column in Our Special from National Braille Press—something for every skill level.…
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Press Play, Stay Informed, Get Cozy
We hope you’re in the mood for some hands-on learning, because this episode is packed with not one, but TWO demos that run under Windows 10/11—plus a cozy bonus to help you survive winter in style. Demo #1: FastPlay Media Player for Windows Chris kicks things off with a walkthrough of FastPlay, a...
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Escaping Winter One Story at a Time
You may be relieved to know that today’s episode gives hospitals and medical talk a well-deserved rest. Instead, we’re cozying up with ideas to keep you entertained, informed, and moving through the coldest months of the year. Grab a blanket—let’s dive in. Reading, Reimagined What kind of reader...
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We-Walk Took a Walk
In this episode, Chris and Kim share even more adventures from their daily lives. They kick things off by talking about Chris’s We-Walk cane—and the mystery of why it decided to walk away on its own. Next, they discuss and demonstrate a talking blood pressure monitor that connects to a smartphone...
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Chris Is Back and We have Hospital Tips to Share
We’re excited to both be here for this episode! Chris is now out of the hospital and back home. We decided to devote this episode to sharing some tips and things we’ve learned during this experience. If you’re faced with an emergency room visit or hospitalization, what do you need to take into...
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Important announcement and Food Edition
Today’s episode is very different than what we expected to release. Please listen to the first few minutes where Kim shares important news about the immediate future of Mystic Access and our podcast. Then, stay tuned as Kim and Lisa deliver two delicious holiday recipes. We’ll get these posted in...
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Sniffles, Snuggles, and a Pillow Speaker
Today’s episode is short but definitely sweet—think mini-pumpkin-pie sweet. Both of us are a little under the weather (Chris especially… send tissues!), but we still have a fun demo to share with you. First Things First: Our Annual Open House! Before we dive in, here’s your cheerful reminder that...
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From the Castle to the Couch: Holiday Fun Awaits!
Get ready for a little bit of everything in this festive episode! We’ve got an exciting announcement, a magical castle interview, and a cozy demo perfect for chilly evenings. First up: We’re thrilled to invite you to our day-after-Thanksgiving open house! It’s one of our favorite Mystic Access...
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Permanent Price Drop, A Bluetooth Speaker with a Terrific Twist, and a Day After Turkey Day Announcement
Short & Sweet: Cool Tech + Big News! Chris might be a bit under the weather this week , but we’re still bringing the heat with a super cool audio demo and a juicy announcement! Price Drop Alert! We’ve permanently reduced the price of our Windows 10 Audio Documentation! Originally $75 → now just...
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AirPods Armor, Hable Hacks & Alexa+ Reloaded
Today’s episode is jam-packed with practical tips, tech demos, a minor mystery, and even a dramatic drop test. Buckle up—we’ve got something for everyone! Tiny Accessories, Big Impact Who knew AirPods cases could spark so much excitement? We kick things off by proving that even the smallest...
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Earbuds, Ovens, and Autumn Surprises
Show Notes: Sales, Scares, Stories, and So Much More! Today’s episode is a grab bag of goodness—updates, unboxings, tech tales, sales news, and even a sprinkle of story time. Settle in and enjoy the ride! A Surprise “Welcome to Fall” Sale We kicked off an impromptu autumn celebration with 17% off...
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AI at the Door, Apple on the Brain, and Local Now on Demo
In this episode, we’ve got a little bit of everything—updates, surprises, demos, and stories that might make you smile: • Site Maintenance Notice – Our free downloads site, Mystic Access Downloads, will be offline for a short time while we make some changes on the backend. Don’t worry, the site...
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Security Scares, Gift Card Gimmicks, and Kim’s Big Oops
Today’s episode is a melting pot of cautionary tales and practical tips from our recent adventures. Our goal isn’t to scare you, but to remind you to stay careful and vigilant—especially while traveling. In this episode, we cover: • Travel & Canes – A follow-up on our cane conversation from last...
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Telescoping Canes, Hurricane Tracking, Our New Safety Book, and More
Welcome to our final 2025 episode recorded in North Carolina! To kick things off, we brought you outside to experience some late-summer nature sounds. Unfortunately, the ambiance was interrupted by the air conditioner, so we moved the recording indoors. We hope the natural setting was a nice…
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Echos, Fire Tablets and Alexa+, Oh My!
Most of this episode is dedicated to all things Amazon. We have numerous demos and thoughts to share on several products. First, however, we’re announcing a twenty-five percent off sale to celebrate our fourth wedding anniversary on August 11. The sale runs from Friday August eighth through end…
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Convention Adventures
In this episode, we discuss our travels to and from the ACB Convention. Links coming soon. Stay tuned.
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Convention Season, Summer Sales, and a Walk with Voice Vista
This episode is a short and sweet one—many of us are busy enjoying both virtual and in-person convention fun! Convention Season Sale Our summer sale is live! From now through July 14, save 30% on all digital audio documentation. • We’re currently at the ACB convention in Dallas, then heading to…
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Minisode – New Product announcement
Hi everyone, We’re excited to share a brand-new episode with you! In this release, we introduce our latest product — Audible Adventures. This comprehensive offering explores the accessibility of the Audible service across a variety of platforms, giving you a clearer picture of how to enjoy your...
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Summer Sales, Rural Internet Adventures, and a Tour of the Audiobooks.com App
In this episode, we’ve got a little something for everyone—from tech updates to travel logistics to summer savings! Summer Convention Sale We’re kicking things off with an announcement: our Summer Convention Sale is on! From June 24 through July 14, enjoy 30% off all audio documentation (hardware...
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A Smarter Way to Stay Safe: Exploring the X-Sense Talking Smoke Alarm
In this episode, we demonstrate the X-Sense Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm featuring voice location technology. Hear how it works, what sets it apart from traditional alarms, and why it might be a great addition to your home safety setup. If you choose to purchase through our Amazon affiliate…
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Steps, Screens, and Speaking Coffee Machines
We hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we had creating it! Come along as we walk a few steps (maybe more, maybe less—no judgment here!) through a mix of nostalgic tech, helpful tools, and safety tips. In This Episode: Blast from the Past: The Primula Talking Coffee Maker We...
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200 Dollars Saved, 100 Hours of Music, and a Whole Lot of Rattling
In this episode, we kick things off with a travel tip that recently saved us $200—and it just might save you money too! Whether you’re booking flights, rental cars, or hotel stays (especially via Expedia), this simple trick is worth knowing. While we haven’t found an equivalent for train travel...
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Taste a New Place
Episode Summary: In this episode, Chris and Kim kick things off by sharing some listener feedback, including a mention of Hartgen Consultancy’s valuable products and services. Next, with the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID quickly approaching, we dive into what you may need to know if you plan…
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Beating the Heat + Planning for Summer Adventures
In this episode, we’re helping you prep for late spring and summer with affordable ways to stay cool and escape the heat—wherever you are. Cool Gadgets for Warmer Days Chris shares his experience with the Vornado TRANSOM window fan, which he used in our summer home last year. This powerful fan...
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Site Checkout Improvements, An Innovative Bluetooth Sleep Mask, and an Older Cord Cutting App Becomes Incredibly Accessible on iOS
In This Episode: A Smarter Checkout, A Soothing Sleep Mask, and Budget-Friendly Streaming In this episode, we’re diving into three exciting updates and discoveries we think you’ll love. First up, we’ve made a helpful improvement to the checkout process at...
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Exploring the World of Podcasts: How to Listen, Discover, and Enjoy
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of podcasts! Whether you’re new to podcasting or a seasoned listener, we’re covering everything from finding topics that interest you to following your favorite shows. We’ll also discuss common pitfalls to avoid and share insights from our own...
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On Purchasing Electronics Accessories, Tips for Using the iPhone 16E, Cheaper Phone Plans, and Helpful AI
In this episode, we dive into a variety of topics—so even if something doesn’t seem relevant to you at first, stick around! You might pick up some valuable insights or learn some lessons along the way. **Ring Camera Accessories & the Importance of Research** Chris shares his experience with the...
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Exploring Smart Canes, Toys, and a Surprise Feature
In this episode, we dive into a mix of tech, fun, and surprises! We start by discussing our upcoming event focused on the BlindShell Classic 3 phone and how it compares to its predecessor. Then, we explore the WeWalk smart canes, comparing the first and second generations to see what’s new and...
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Plush it is Not
Today we announce an event comparing the BlindShell 2 and 3 cell phones, and have demos of JAWS Picture Smart, and the meal delivery service Factor. This is one of our really long episodes, so grab a snack and a drink before getting started. first, we’re very excited to announce our upcoming…
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Trying to Find Your Couch
We’re back with a number of small discussions and two quick demos, so we hope you find something enjoyable among the talking points. First, we update you on our use of tiles. Chris shares about another version of a tile he plans to purchase and why. He demos finding his phone, how the tile works...
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I Was A Century Behind
Today you’ll learn a bit about tracking things with Tile! We’re both rather under the weather for this episode, but hopefully our cool topic makes up for our weird-sounding voices. Tile is a versatile way to track your keys, wallet, and lots of other items no matter which platform you use. There...
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Happy New Year 2025
From us to you, HAPPY 2025, hope it is a great one!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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.
HOSTED BY
Chris Nova, Kim Nova
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Mystic Access Podcast have?
Mystic Access Podcast currently has 408 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Mystic Access Podcast about?
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...
How often does Mystic Access Podcast release new episodes?
Mystic Access Podcast publishes regularly with 408 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Mystic Access Podcast?
You can listen to Mystic Access Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Mystic Access Podcast?
Mystic Access Podcast is created and hosted by Chris Nova, Kim Nova.
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