TCNJ AT Talks

TCNJ AT Talks
  • 5.0 (2)
  • EDUCATION

TCNJ AT Talks is the official podcast from The College of New Jersey's Assistive Technology Center. Join hosts Brian Kenyon, Vanessa Lombardo, and Madison Bronstein for conversations on the power of assistive technology (AT). We provide practical strategies for educators, families, and administrators to build inclusive learning environments and unlock every student's potential. Tune in to learn and be inspired.

  1. 1D AGO

    S2E3 - Part 1: All About Camp Chatterbox with Katherine Tappan-Verderosa, Elizabeth Trembley, and Michael Fondacaro

    Welcome to TCNJ AT Talks! This is Part 1 of our special multi-part series featuring the incredible team from Camp Chatterbox. In this opening segment, we introduce our three guest experts: Katherine Tappan-Verderosa (SLP Clinical Coordinator), Elizabeth Trembley (Certified Recreational Therapist), and Michael Fondacaro (AAC User, graduate, and mentor). We kick things off with our signature Rapid Fire rounds to help you get to know the team behind the magic of the Jersey Shore's premier AAC camp. We cover everything from their favorite snacks and morning routines to Michael's inspiring book recommendations. Note to Listeners: Since Michael is an AAC user, some of his responses in this episode may take a moment to formulate. We invite you to embrace the "wait time"—a crucial part of authentic communication—as we listen to his powerful insights. In this episode (Part 1), we cover: Meet the Guests Meet the Team: Introduction to the clinical, recreational, and lived-experience perspectives that make Camp Chatterbox possible. Rapid Fire Fun: A lighthearted look at our guests' personalities, including their favorite "fit checks" and personal preferences. Rapid Fire AT: A transition into the world of Assistive Technology, setting the stage for our deep dive into AAC facilitation in Part 2. Katherine Tappan-Verderosa, MS, CCC-SLP: Clinical Coordinator of Camp Chatterbox and owner of SLP Musically. Elizabeth Trembley: Certified Recreational Therapist and Community Programs Coordinator at Children's Specialized Hospital. Michael Fondacaro: AAC User, Camp Chatterbox Graduate, and Founder of Beyond the Chair. Michael is a prominent advocate for the AAC community and co-founder of NJ's first power soccer team. Resources & Links Camp Chatterbox Information: https://csh.recdesk.com/Community/Page?pageId=13678 (Applications open until April 1, 2026)Beyond the Chair: https://beyondthechair23.com RT Wise Owls (Temple University): https://sites.temple.edu/rtwiseowls/  Reach out to the Show Have a question about AAC, recreational therapy, or a challenge you're facing? We'd love to hear from you! Speakpipe (Voice Message): https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi  Google Form (Written Question): https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27  Listen and Connect Website: https://atcenter.tcnj.edu/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atcentertcnj  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ATCenterTCNJ  Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu  The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    28 min

  2. FEB 23

    S2E2 - Part 3: Digital Accessibility for All, Navigating Title II with Janet DeSenzo

    Welcome back to AT Talks for the final part of our crucial conversation on Title II Compliance with Janet DeSenzo! In this episode, we move past the legal and into the practical, hands-on strategies every educator can use to build an accessible classroom. We cover: Accessible Document Creation: Janet's top tips for making instructional materials accessible from the start. Checking Your Work: A detailed list of tools and extensions, like Grackle Docs and WAVE, that teachers can use to check the accessibility of their own documents. The PDF Problem: A deep dive into why scanned P-D-F materials are an accessibility nightmare and practical strategies for dealing with legacy materials through remediation and OCR. Compliant or Complaint? We play our rapid-fire game to debunk common accessibility myths about auto-captions, protected course content (like Google Classroom), and color use. Accessibility Checkers and Extensions WAVE Evaluation Tool (Chrome Extension): https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/wave-evaluation-tool/jbbplnpkjmmeebjpijfedlgcdilocofh?pli=1 Web AIM (WAVE Extensions): https://wave.webaim.org/ Grackle Docs (Add-on): https://www.grackledocs.com/en/ Accessibility Checker for Docs (Add-on): https://workspace.google.com/marketplace/app/accessibility_checker_for_docs/452529936240 Screen Readers Assistive Technology Products (AFB): https://afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/using-technology/assistive-technology-products/screen-readers Professional Resources CAST (General Resource): https://www.cast.org/ CAST Podcast Episode (Title II): https://aem.cast.org/get-started/resources/accessible-learning-experience/s.03-ep.11-ada-title-ii-updates-and-requirements A11y Accessibility Checklist: https://www.a11y-collective.com/blog/ux-accessibility-checklist/ Reach out to the Show: Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi Google Form: https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27 Listen and Connect: Website: atcenter.tcnj.edu Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: @ATCenterTCNJ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/611UCzjjZl8OoazdYWeGFM?si=moBCwGjdTF2o5obErI2GWQ  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tcnj-at-talks/id1832750422 YouTube Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4lnPwiTrq_Z_GbmqQEQ3vW1eEus7hIU2  The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    26 min

  3. FEB 16

    S2E2 - Part 2: Digital Accessibility for All, Navigating Title II with Janet DeSenzo

    Welcome back to AT Talks for Part 2 of our crucial conversation on Title II Compliance with Janet DeSenzo! In this episode, we move past the introductions to dive deep into the legal and practical framework. We're covering: The Law and The Why: A breakdown of the recent ADA updates, the critical shift to WCAG 2.1 AA standards, and the POUR principles (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust). We clarify the compliance deadlines (April 2026/2027) and emphasize why digital accessibility is an issue for the whole school, not just IT. Presentation Pitfalls: Janet shares her top tips for creating accessible slide decks and presentations, including strategies for reading order, using unique slide titles, managing visual noise, and the necessity of accurate captions for all video content. Don't miss this essential deep dive as we unpack the rules and move into practical, hands-on strategies for every educator. Show Notes WCAG Introduction Introduction to Understanding WCAG 2.0: w3.org/TR/UNDERSTANDING-WCAG20 NCADEMI NCADEMI Roadmap (District Tool): ncademi.org/sustain/roadmap CAST CAST (General Resource): cast.org CAST Podcast Episode (Title II): aem.cast.org/s.03-ep.11 Reach out to the Show: Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi Google Form: https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27 Listen and Connect: Website: atcenter.tcnj.edu Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: @ATCenterTCNJ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/611UCzjjZl8OoazdYWeGFM?si=moBCwGjdTF2o5obErI2GWQ  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tcnj-at-talks/id1832750422 YouTube Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4lnPwiTrq_Z_GbmqQEQ3vW1eEus7hIU2  The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    27 min

  4. FEB 9

    S2E2 - Part 1: Digital Accessibility for All: Navigating Title II with Janet DeSenzo

    Welcome back to AT Talks! We're kicking off a multi-part deep dive into a crucial topic for every educator and administrator: Title II Compliance and Digital Accessibility. In this first episode of our conversation with Janet DeSenzo, Technology Coordinator and Assistive Technology Specialist for CTC Academy, we lay the groundwork for making instructional materials compliant with the new ADA updates. In this episode, we cover: Meet Janet DeSenzo: A look at her extensive background in educational and assistive technology. The Power of AT: A rapid-fire round discussing her favorite non-work app, the next place she wants to travel, and her professional heroes. Underrated Accessibility: Janet shares what she believes is the most underrated accessibility feature and completes the sentence: "Accessibility is..." -----Parts 2 and 3, which will cover the Main Interview on WCAG standards, practical compliance strategies, and our game segment "Compliant or Complaint?" will be coming out in the following weeks.----- Shownotes Guest Inspiration: Joy Zabala - joyzabala.com Chris Bugaj - sites.google.com/view/chrisbugaj and talkingwithtech.org/about Recommended Resource: CAST - cast.org Underrated Accessibility Mentioned: Voiceitt - voiceitt.com Project Relate - sites.research.google/relate/ (Android Only) Reach out to the Show: Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: Speakpipe AT Talks Google Form: TCNJ AT Talks Question Form Listen and Connect: Website: atcenter.tcnj.edu Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: @ATCenterTCNJ Spotify: TCNJ AT Talks on Spotify Apple Podcasts: TCNJ AT Talks on Apple Podcasts YouTube Podcasts: TCNJ AT Talks Playlist The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    22 min

  5. FEB 2

    S2E1 - Part 2: AT in the community with Jessica Smith

    Part 1 YouTube: https://youtu.be/K0pPzgtA_bI  Part 1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0J22cAkP7FlyCZ2roX910B?si=uev28ZImQUuACynQxl5bwg  In Part 2 of our conversation with self-advocate and AT innovator Jessica Smith, we dive deeper into her journey beyond the award-winning First Responder Communication Board. If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen! In this episode, we cover: Innovating with Tech: Jessica discusses her transition from low-tech boards to becoming an innovator in adapted switches and coding accessible games using MakeCode Arcade. Career Goals: Her future aspiration to become a certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and what drives that goal. AAC Mythbusters! We wrap up the episode with our brand new game segment, challenging common misconceptions about AAC, Autism, and emergency response. Shownotes Game On State Arcade - https://www.gameonstate.com/ Ablenet PowerLink 4 - https://www.ablenetinc.com/powerlink-4-north-america/ Boardmaker 7 - https://us.tobiidynavox.com/pages/boardmaker-7 SymbolStix Prime - https://www.n2y.com/symbolstix-prime/ Jessica Smith's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stickfortsd1/?hl=en Switched Toys - https://www.switchedtoys.org/ Ablenet Blue2 - https://www.ablenetinc.com/blue2-ft/ MakeCode Arcade - https://arcade.makecode.com/ Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi Google Form: https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27 Website: https://atcenter.tcnj.edu/ Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: ⁨@ATCenterTCNJ⁩ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/611UCzjjZl8OoazdYWeGFM Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tcnj-at-talks/id1832750422 YouTube Podcasts: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4lnPwiTrq_Z_GbmqQEQ3vW1eEus7hIU2⁠ The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    27 min

  6. JAN 26

    S2E1 - Part1: AT in the community with Jessica Smith

    In this first part of our two-episode conversation, we welcome self-advocate and AT innovator, Jessica Smith. Jessica shares the powerful personal story behind her award-winning work, starting with the creation of her "First Responder Communication Board" in 9th grade. We explore the specific fears and anxieties that drove her to build this life-changing solution. Topics covered include: The Personal Journey: Jessica's motivation for building a communication tool to bridge the gap between Autistic individuals and authority figures in high-stress situations. Early Innovations: Her first hands-on AT projects, including adapting switches and a communication board for Game On State Arcade. Deep Dive on the Board: An in-depth discussion about the design of the First Responder Communication Board, how she selected critical core and fringe vocabulary, and how the tool has evolved based on feedback from self-advocates and first responders. Game On State Arcade - https://www.gameonstate.com/ Ablenet PowerLink 4 - https://www.ablenetinc.com/powerlink-4-north-america/ Boardmaker 7 - https://us.tobiidynavox.com/pages/boardmaker-7 SymbolStix Prime - https://www.n2y.com/symbolstix-prime/ Jessica Smith's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stickfortsd1/?hl=en Switched Toys - https://www.switchedtoys.org/ Ablenet Blue2 - https://www.ablenetinc.com/blue2-ft/ MakeCode Arcade - https://arcade.makecode.com/ Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi Google Form: https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27 Website: https://atcenter.tcnj.edu/ Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: ⁨@ATCenterTCNJ⁩ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/611UCzjjZl8OoazdYWeGFM Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tcnj-at-talks/id1832750422 YouTube Podcasts: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4lnPwiTrq_Z_GbmqQEQ3vW1eEus7hIU2⁠ The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    30 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    Episode 10: Season 1 in Review - Our Biggest Takeaways

    In the Season 1 finale of TCNJ AT Talks, hosts Brian Kenyon, Vanessa Lombardo, and Madison Bronstein come together to recap the entire season. Each host shares their key takeaways from their favorite episodes, covering foundational topics like AT Consideration and the SETT Framework, deep dives into AAC and Blind/Low Vision tech, and big-picture conversations about community collaboration and careers in accessibility. They identify the "golden threads" of Season 1: the power of collaboration, the critical importance of self-advocacy, and the guiding principle of "start with the person, not the tech." Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi Google Form: https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27 Website: https://atcenter.tcnj.edu/ Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: ⁨@ATCenterTCNJ⁩ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/611UCzjjZl8OoazdYWeGFM Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tcnj-at-talks/id1832750422 YouTube Podcasts: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4lnPwiTrq_Z_GbmqQEQ3vW1eEus7hIU2⁠ The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    48 min

  8. 11/24/2025

    Episode 9 - Part 3: Access Forward: A Journey in Accessible Tech with Paul Daye

    In the final part of this 3 part episode of TCNJ AT Talks, host Brian Kenyon, Vanessa Lombardo, and Madison Bronstein engage with Paul Daye, a lead accessibility analyst at Visa, to discuss the intersection of career paths and accessibility. The conversation highlights Paul's personal journey as a blind individual, his advocacy for disability rights, and the importance of curiosity and self-advocacy in navigating the workforce. They explore the skills necessary for success in tech accessibility, the role of AI and the innovations in assistive technology that are shaping the future. Paul emphasizes the need for individuals to plan their transitions effectively and to advocate for their needs in educational and professional settings. In this conversation, Paul Daye shares his journey of setting goals, adapting plans, and advocating for himself and others with disabilities. He discusses the importance of asking for what you need, navigating independence through study abroad experiences, and his career path in the tech industry. Paul emphasizes the significance of representation for people with disabilities in corporate roles and highlights his current work at Visa, focusing on accessibility initiatives and the need for inclusive practices in technology. He encourages young people with disabilities to explore their interests and gain exposure to technology to prepare for future careers. Shownotes: Companies that Lead in Disability Inclusion Outperform Peers Financially, Reveals New Research from Accenture: https://disabilityin.org/articles-and-updates/companies-that-lead-in-disability-inclusion-outperform-peers-financially-reveals-new-research-from-accenture  Have a burning question about a specific device, a challenge you're facing in the classroom, or an idea for a future episode? Leave us a message on Speakpipe or fill out the Google Form below, and you might just hear your question answered on an upcoming episode! Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/403552/2/r42311zspy55gjvi Google Form: https://forms.gle/hHXocfqCfo5JftJ27  Website: https://atcenter.tcnj.edu/  Email: atcenter@tcnj.edu  Instagram: @ATCenterTCNJ YouTube: ⁨@ATCenterTCNJ⁩ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/611UCzjjZl8OoazdYWeGFM Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tcnj-at-talks/id1832750422  YouTube Podcasts: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4lnPwiTrq_Z_GbmqQEQ3vW1eEus7hIU2⁠ The Assistive Technology Center at The College of New Jersey is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, and is partially funded by IDEA, Part B. https://www.nj.gov/education/specialed/

    26 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
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About

TCNJ AT Talks is the official podcast from The College of New Jersey's Assistive Technology Center. Join hosts Brian Kenyon, Vanessa Lombardo, and Madison Bronstein for conversations on the power of assistive technology (AT). We provide practical strategies for educators, families, and administrators to build inclusive learning environments and unlock every student's potential. Tune in to learn and be inspired.

Information

  • Creator
    TCNJ AT Talks
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © TCNJ AT Talks
  • Show Website
    TCNJ AT Talks