In this episode of iCantCU, I’m trying something completely different—an audio-only format recorded while walking laps around my house. I talk about the frustration of unreliable audio description devices at theaters and why it’s such a barrier for blind patrons like me. I also share how my recent Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses videos on YouTube outperformed anything I’ve done before and preview an upcoming video on the new Oakley Meta Smart Glasses. Inspired by other podcasters, I’m hoping this low-tech, low-barrier approach helps me put out more episodes, more often. Let’s see how it goes!.
Episode Transcript
Episode 287 of iCantCU
Hello there, and welcome back to another episode of iCantCU—your window into a world where blindness doesn’t dictate ability. I’m David, @DavidBenj on all the socials, and I appreciate you joining me for something a little different this time.
Shifting from Video to Audio-Only
After nearly a year and a half of producing both video and audio, I’ve decided to try something new: an audio-only format recorded while walking around my house. It’s casual, it’s real, and it removes a few barriers that might’ve been slowing me down creatively—like worrying about lighting, what shirt I’m wearing, or how the algorithm might treat a “talky” video about accessibility.
YouTube Wins and What’s Next
In recent weeks, I’ve had surprising success on YouTube with two videos on the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses—one shot in Las Vegas and a follow-up highlighting their shortcomings. Both did “viral for me” numbers. Now I’m prepping a new video on the just-announced Oakley Meta Smart Glasses, comparing them to the Ray-Bans. It’s in the works, but I didn’t want to delay putting out another episode.
Inspired by Simplicity
This new approach was inspired by The Doug Show and his friend Matt Giovanisci, who rebooted his podcast by simply walking around and talking into his phone. That hit me—why not walk around and record iCantCU episodes while getting in some steps? No desk. No studio. Just my wired earbuds and my phone in my pocket.
Let’s Talk About Audio Description
A big part of this episode is dedicated to a recurring frustration: the inconsistent, often broken experience of audio description in live theaters. Whether it’s a dead device, the wrong equipment, or poor sound quality, it’s always a gamble. And for blind folks like me, that gamble can cost time, money, and patience.
I recently attended a performance of Fat Ham at the Wilma Theater in Philly. The tickets were affordable—just $12—but the audio device didn’t work. Add in $50–60 for round-trip Uber rides, and you’ve got an expensive, frustrating experience with little accessibility payoff. When you can’t follow what’s happening on stage, even a great play falls flat.
The Bigger Problem
What’s worse is that these audio-described performances are usually offered only during “relaxed” performances—matinees with lights up, noise, and constant movement in the audience. It’s the only time we get audio description, and frankly, it doesn’t always make for a great theater experience.
Why I’m Walking and Talking
This new format lets me create without overthinking. There’s no algorithm to please with an audio podcast—just listeners who either tune in or don’t. I can talk about blindness, accessibility, or whatever’s on my mind without worrying about video production. And on nicer days, you might even hear me recording outside with Ziggy!
Let’s Stay Connected
Thanks again for listening to iCantCU. I’d love to hear your thoughts—especially on this new format.
? Email: iCantCUpodcast@gmail.com
? Call or text: 646-926-6350
? Social: @DavidBenj just about everywhere (except TikTok)
Stay safe, be well, and I’ll talk to you in the next episode!