Assistive Tech Today Podcast

Vinny L

Assistive Tech Today Podcast explores assistive and adaptive technology that helps people with disabilities communicate, learn, play, and live more independently. Hosted by Vincent Livoti, an assistive technology specialist for Enabling Devices with over 24 years of experience, the podcast features AAC, accessibility tools, adaptive devices, and inclusive technology for special education and daily living. www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767 The show delivers practical insights for real-world solutions for OTs, SLPs,PTs, educators, caregivers, parents, and accessibility advocates.

  1. Ep. 15 Why AI Will Never Replace the Therapist | Kevin Dias, Founder of Ambiki 6-4-2026

    8h ago

    Ep. 15 Why AI Will Never Replace the Therapist | Kevin Dias, Founder of Ambiki 6-4-2026

    Guest: Kevin DiasFounder, AmbikiIn this episode of Assistive Technology Today, I sit down with Kevin Dias, Founder of Ambiki, to discuss how technology, artificial intelligence, and thoughtful product design are transforming pediatric therapy.Kevin has spent his career at the intersection of software, language, and healthcare, with a simple philosophy: start with the problem, and the right solution becomes much easier to find. From leading technology initiatives at Sidekick Therapy Partners to founding Ambiki, Kevin has focused on building tools that reduce friction for clinicians and allow therapists to spend more time helping the people they serve.We explore the challenges therapists face with documentation, workflow management, and administrative burden, and how innovative solutions like Ambiki and Tenalog are changing the way speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists work. Kevin shares his perspective on ethical AI, product development, and why understanding the real problem is the key to creating meaningful technology.Whether you're a therapist, assistive technology professional, educator, healthcare leader, or simply interested in how technology can improve clinical care, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of therapy technology.Topics discussed:• The origin and mission of Ambiki• How AI is transforming therapy documentation• Reducing clinician burnout through better workflows• Ethical technology development in healthcare• The future of pediatric therapy software• Why great products begin with understanding the problemLearn more about today's guest: Company Name & Info: https://ambiki.comhttps://www.kevinsdias.com  / kevin-dias-ambiki   “Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion.I’m Vinny Livoti, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology.From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies.This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”  / vincent-livoti-46912767  "Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community.""The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent."Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67 #assistivetechnology, #pediatrictherapy, #ambiki, #clinicalworkflow

    28 min
  2. Ep. 14 Play Is Powerful: How Positioning Unlocks Learning | Dr. Tina Weisman 5-28-26

    Jun 7

    Ep. 14 Play Is Powerful: How Positioning Unlocks Learning | Dr. Tina Weisman 5-28-26

    Learn more about today's guest: In this episode of Assistive Technology Today, I welcome my longtime friend and colleague, Dr. Tina Weisman, for a conversation about two topics that are fundamental to child development: adaptive play and positioning. Tina and I have known and worked together for more than 24 years, and she shares insights gained from over four decades of experience as a pediatric occupational therapist, educator, and mentor.We discuss how children learn through play, why access to play opportunities matters, and how adaptive toys, assistive technology, and creative intervention strategies can help children engage, explore, and develop new skills. We also dive into the often-overlooked importance of positioning and how proper seating and support can dramatically impact a child's ability to learn, communicate, participate, and interact with their environment.Whether you're a therapist, educator, caregiver, or assistive technology professional, this episode offers practical takeaways on creating opportunities for learning through play and positioning children for success.Links: Linkedin:   / tina-weisman-otd-otr-l-148784b2   Yeshiva University: https://www.yu.edu/katz “Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion.I’m Vinny Livoti, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology.From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies.This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”  / vincent-livoti-46912767  "Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community.""The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent."Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67#assistivetechnology #adaptivetechnology #accessibility #inclusión #specialeducation #occupationaltherapy #specialneeds #speechtherapy

    38 min
  3. Ep. 13 Designing Tech For Everyone with Jack Kavanagh | Moving The Needle 5-28-26

    May 31

    Ep. 13 Designing Tech For Everyone with Jack Kavanagh | Moving The Needle 5-28-26

    Learn more about today's guest: Episode Description:How can assistive technology remove real-world barriers and make everyday life approachable for everyone? In this episode of Assistive Tech Today, we explore the exciting future of inclusive design, universal policy, and adaptive tools with Jack Kavanagh.In 2012, Jack sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury resulting in 15% muscle function. Today, as an optimistic realist, keynote speaker, and executive director, he works on high-impact projects that aim to move the needle for the disability community.We break down the practical, everyday tech Jack is testing right now, including his 2024 research and development on 3D-printed wheelchair cushions optimized for airflow and pressure distribution. We also dive into the AeroFix Project—a massive collaboration supported by Irelandia Aviation, Airbus, and EU regulators aimed at allowing people with reduced mobility to complete an entire flight journey without ever leaving their own mobility device.Jack also shares his high-level insights from serving on the board of the National Disability Authority and the Center for Excellence in Universal Design, alongside his global policy work with the World Health Organisation (WHO).Whether you are an educator supporting students, an assistive technology user, a caregiver, or just passionate about accessibility, this conversation proves that technology should—and can—work for everyone.Connect with Jack Kavanagh: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-kavanagh-405372b5Website & Podcast: Jack Kavanagh Website's: The National Disability Authority (NDA): https://nda.ieCommon Purpose Ireland : http://www.commonpurpose.ieWatch his award-winning documentary: Breaking Boundaries Streaming on Amazon PrimeListen to his show: Only Human PodcastIf you want to help make technology more approachable, please Like, Comment, and Subscribe to support the channel! “Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion.I’m Vinny Livoti, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology.From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies.This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767"Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community.""The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent."Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67#assistivetechnology #adaptivetechnology #accessibility #inclusión #specialeducation #occupationaltherapy #specialneeds #speechtherapy

    38 min
  4. Ep.12 Recovery Never Plateaus _ The Future of Spinal Cord Injury with Ignacio Montoya 5-7-26

    May 19

    Ep.12 Recovery Never Plateaus _ The Future of Spinal Cord Injury with Ignacio Montoya 5-7-26

    In Episode 12, Vinny talks with Ignacio Montoya—SCI veteran, neuroengineer, and exoskeleton pilot—about Continuous NeuroRecovery, neuromodulation, wearable robotics, and why recovery shouldn’t be episodic. With 655+ miles of robotic treadmill walking and 1,000,000+ assisted steps, Ignacio shares what real-world neurorehab looks like—and what’s possible when we reject the idea that progress has a plateau. Learn more about today's guest: Company Name & Info: Georgia Tech Website: https://research.gatech.edu/stepping-...  / urn:li:activity:7441872265408831488  https://www.ranchoresearch.org Ingnacio walking in a self-balancing exoskeleton: Training with the Wandercraft #AtalanteX a hands-free, self-balancing exoskeleton:  / urn:li:ugcpost:7457439267154489345  https://www.gatech.edu Ignacio's info: Linkedin:   / revrsnparalysis  “Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion. I’m Vinny Livoti, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology.From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies.This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”  / vincent-livoti-46912767  "Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community.""The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent."Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67 #AssistiveTech #SpinalCordInjury #Neurorehabilitation #Exoskeleton #Neuromodulation #Neuroplasticity #Accessibility #Veteran #Rehabilitation #HumanPerformance

    38 min
  5. Ep. 11 How Digital Health is Transforming Clinical Care | Gabriella Francis 5-7-26

    May 13

    Ep. 11 How Digital Health is Transforming Clinical Care | Gabriella Francis 5-7-26

    Learn more about today's guest: 🎙️ Episode 11: Bridging Healthcare & Technology with Gabriella Francis, OTD, OTR/L, ATC In this episode of Assistive Tech Today, I sit down with Gabriella Francis, an occupational therapist and digital health innovator who is working at the cutting edge of healthcare and technology. Gabriella brings a unique perspective to the conversation—blending her clinical background with real-world experience in product development, customer success, and technology implementation. From launching healthcare solutions across outpatient, inpatient, and virtual environments, to working directly with clinicians to drive adoption, she knows what it takes to turn ideas into meaningful impact.We dive into:What it really takes to integrate new technology into clinical workflowsThe challenges (and opportunities) of scaling digital health solutionsHow clinicians can play a bigger role in shaping the future of healthcare technology.The importance of listening to frontline feedback when building products that actually workWhere digital health, AI, and SaaS are headed—and what it means for patients and providers.Gabriella also shares her passion for mentorship, innovation, and empowering clinicians to step beyond traditional roles and become leaders in healthcare transformation.This episode is packed with insight for clinicians, assistive technology professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about improving healthcare through thoughtful, well-designed technology.👉 If you’ve ever wondered how great ideas make it from concept to real-world use in healthcare—this conversation is for you. Company Info: Squegg - https://www.mysquegg.com/products/squegg-digital-grip-strengthener Level the Curve - https://www.levelthecurve.com SymplBrush: https://www.truthbrush.comCoaching Collective (they can mention my name for a referral) - https://www.joincollectivecoaching.comMy linkedIn to reach out - www.linkedin.com/in/gabriella-francis“Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion.I’m Vinny Livoti, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology.From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies.This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767"Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community.""The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent."Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67#assistivetechnology #adaptivetechnology #accessibility #inclusión #specialeducation #occupationaltherapy #specialneeds #speechtherapy

    36 min
  6. Ep. 10 BridgingApps: The Assistive App Resource That Truly Makes a Difference 4-30-26

    May 5

    Ep. 10 BridgingApps: The Assistive App Resource That Truly Makes a Difference 4-30-26

    Learn more about today's guest: Cristen Carson Reat is the Co‑Founder and Program Director of BridgingApps, a program of Easter Seals Greater Houston focused on helping people with disabilities use apps and mobile technology to reach their full potential. With over a decade leading BridgingApps, a strong background in nonprofit program development, and formal training in assistive technology from California State University–Northridge, Cristen brings practical, real‑world insight to the assistive technology community.Why BridgingApps Matters (Personal Note from the Podcast) During our conversation, we talked about the BridgingApps website and its impact over the years. It’s a resource I’ve personally used and recommended to customers at Enabling Devices for nearly 15 years as an outstanding way to discover and evaluate assistive apps for the iPad. BridgingApps has consistently helped professionals, families, and individuals cut through the noise and find tools that truly make a difference.linkedin.com/in/cristen-carson-reat-55509232Company: BridgingApps.Org“Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion. I’m Vinny Livoti, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology. From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies. This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767 "Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community." "The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent." Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67 #assistivetechnology #adaptivetechnology #accessibility #inclusión #specialeducation #occupationaltherapy #specialneeds #speechtherapy

    34 min
  7. EP. 9 Podcast Behind the Tech: AI, AAC, and Access with Dr. Rachel Levy 03 26 26

    Apr 27

    EP. 9 Podcast Behind the Tech: AI, AAC, and Access with Dr. Rachel Levy 03 26 26

    Learn more about today's guest: We’re picking up right where we left off—this time with Dr. Rachel Khasky Levy, partner to Katie Seaver and co‑founder of the Babel(e) Group. After exploring how AI can give more people a voice, Vinny sits down with Rachel to dig into the how it actually shows up in the real world. From AI‑powered speech recognition to practical communication tools, this conversation zooms out to look at the full ecosystem of products Babel(e) supports—and why thoughtful implementation matters just as much as innovation. Dr. Rachel shares her perspective as a co‑founder and customer success leader, walking through the different technologies they sell, support, and stand behind, and how each one fits into the broader goal of improving access for people with speech differences. This episode is about bridging ideas and impact—where cutting‑edge tech meets day‑to‑day communication needs. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rachel-khasky-levy-89635b1b Company info: https://www.thebabelgroup.com

    36 min
  8. Ep. 8 From Handmade Worksheets to AI: Reinventing Speech Therapy 3-19-26

    Apr 12

    Ep. 8 From Handmade Worksheets to AI: Reinventing Speech Therapy 3-19-26

    This story starts long before AI — at a kitchen table.In this episode, I sit down with Julius Hoffmann, Co‑Founder of SLPractice, to explore the deeply personal journey behind one of the most thoughtful AI tools in speech, language, and special education today. Julius grew up watching his mum — a speech and language therapist with over 30 years of experience — spend countless nights hand‑crafting therapy resources. She didn’t rely on generic worksheets. Instead, she created activities tailored to each child’s interests, because she believed therapy only sticks when children actually enjoy it — and when families feel motivated to continue practice at home. Looking back, she credits much of her clients’ progress to deep personalisation and consistent home carryover. Research agrees: interest‑based content increases engagement, particularly for neurodivergent children, and children who practise several times a week make significantly stronger gains than those seen just once weekly.But there’s a problem — time. In 2025, Julius and his co‑founder Will interviewed over 100 speech and language therapists and heard the same challenges again and again: overwhelming caseloads, 12‑month waitlists, and families and schools stretched too thin to keep up with home practice. Drawing on years of experience building technology, they realised that Generative AI could finally bridge this gap — not by replacing therapists, but by removing the most time‑consuming parts of the job. The result was SLPractice: a platform that allows therapists to create personalised, engaging therapy resources in minutes and share them digitally, so home practice actually happens.Built alongside a growing community of practitioners, SLPractice continues to evolve through constant feedback, new games, and real‑world use — all with one goal: empowering therapists to do their best work in a system under pressure. This episode is for speech and language therapists, educators, founders, parents, and anyone interested in human‑centred AI — and what can happen when technology is built from lived experience. 🎧 Listen in to hear how one family story turned into a platform helping move the field forward. Learn more about today's guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliushoffmann Website: https://www.slpractice.com “Welcome to Assistive Tech Today Podcast — where innovation meets inclusion.I’m Vinny L, an assistive technology specialist with over twenty-four years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with special needs through technology.From product design and development to education, consulting, and hands-on demonstrations, this podcast is dedicated to exploring today’s cutting-edge assistive and adaptive technologies.This is Assistive Tech Today Podcast — empowering lives through technology.”"Please note: Many people in the neurodiverse community prefer identity‑first language and describe themselves as “Autistic,” which is also the language our guest typically uses. At the same time, there are individuals, families and professionals who grew up with or prefer using person‑first language (“person with autism”). We want to acknowledge these differences and honor the full range of perspectives within the community.""The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this program belong solely to the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any agency, company, or entity they represent. "Video and audio editing by Chichi67: https://www.hyperfollow.com/chichi67 #assistivetechnology #adaptivetechnology #accessibility #inclusión #specialeducation #occupationaltherapy #specialneeds #speechtherapy

    34 min
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Assistive Tech Today Podcast explores assistive and adaptive technology that helps people with disabilities communicate, learn, play, and live more independently. Hosted by Vincent Livoti, an assistive technology specialist for Enabling Devices with over 24 years of experience, the podcast features AAC, accessibility tools, adaptive devices, and inclusive technology for special education and daily living. www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767 The show delivers practical insights for real-world solutions for OTs, SLPs,PTs, educators, caregivers, parents, and accessibility advocates.

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