TEC Talks: Behind The Beards

Just Checking

We always get asked about technology, so we made a series about it. TEC Talks: Behind the Beards is a short-form podcast hosted by Daniel Simmonds and Dwayne Mathers that takes a hands-on look at assistive technology and the real difference it makes. Each episode explores how technology works, who it supports, and how it helps people live more independently, delivered in a relaxed, jargon-free style that brings practical insight and clear discussion to a space often filled with complexity.

Episodes

  1. Feb 12

    Why Guessing in Care is Dangerous (And How Sensors Fix It)

    What if small changes in someone’s daily routine could reveal important insights about their wellbeing?In this episode, we explore how simple, non-intrusive sensor technology is reshaping care assessments and long-term support. Using real-world examples, we discuss how motion and door sensors can highlight patterns that traditional assessments often miss, including disrupted sleep, night-time anxiety, mobility risks, and gradual changes in daily routines.We look at how this data helps professionals make more informed decisions, tailor support plans, respond earlier to changes in physical or mental health, and reduce unnecessary moves into long-term care. The conversation also explores the growing role of AI in detecting subtle behavioural changes and the importance of using technology responsibly.

    15 min

  2. Jan 29

    A Smarter ‘Now and Next’ Board? Abilia Memo Planner Review

    Dan and Dwayne take a hands-on look at the Abilia Memo Planner; a wall-mounted digital planner designed to support people with learning disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and additional support needs.If you remember the old “Now and Next” boards, laminated planners, and activity sheets stuck on the fridge, this is the modern evolution. We explore how the Memo Planner helps break the day into clear, visual steps using timelines, colours, images, checklists, reminders, and spoken prompts.The guys talk through:✅ How the planner works in real time✅ Setting up activities and routines✅ Breaking tasks down into manageable steps✅ Using images, alarms, and voice prompts✅ Supporting independence and person-centred planning✅How it can be used in care homes, supported living, or family homes

    19 min

  3. Jan 15

    Can an App Teach Real Life Skills? We Tested It

    In this episode of TEC Talks: Behind the Beards, we put the AutonoMe app to the test a smart, skills-building tool designed to help people learn real-life tasks through simple, step-by-step videos. From making coffee to wrapping a present (which goes about as well as you’d expect), we jump in and see if this app can actually turn everyday chaos into confidence.We explore how AutonoMe supports people with learning disabilities and autism, how it brings consistency into care and support, and why this kind of tech could be a total game-changer for independence. If you’re into assistive tech, real-world problem solving, and a bit of beard-powered chaos along the way, you don’t want to miss this one.🎤 Listen on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts🎥 Watch Video Episodes on YouTubeYouTube: / @JustCheckingJC Spotify: / https://shorturl.at/tYzTK LinkedIn: / / just-checking-ltd

    28 min
  • 3 Episodes

About

We always get asked about technology, so we made a series about it. TEC Talks: Behind the Beards is a short-form podcast hosted by Daniel Simmonds and Dwayne Mathers that takes a hands-on look at assistive technology and the real difference it makes. Each episode explores how technology works, who it supports, and how it helps people live more independently, delivered in a relaxed, jargon-free style that brings practical insight and clear discussion to a space often filled with complexity.

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