Assistive Tech Today Podcast

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-46912767The show delivers practical insights for real-world solutions for OTs, SLPs,PTs, educators, caregivers, parents, and accessibility advocates.

Assistive Tech Today Podcast is a technology podcast hosted by Vinny L, with 20 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Vinny L hosts Assistive Tech Today Podcast, a technology show with 20 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #20

  Ep. 20 AAC Funding Maze: How to Get the Right Device for the Right Person | Rachel Clements 7-30-26

  Aug 16, 202635 minS1

  Learn more about today's guest: How do people actually get the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology they need?In this episode, we take a deep dive into the complicated and often misunderstood world of AAC funding. Joining us is Rachel Clements, a Speech-Language Pathologist and Funding Manager at Tobii Dynavox. Rachel breaks down exactly what happens behind the scenes after an SLP recommends a speech-generating device. What We Cover: The Funding Journey: Navigating insurance, prior authorizations, and state programs.The Evaluation Process: Why feature matching and device trials are critical. Beyond Delivery: The vital role of training families, teachers, and SLPs for long-term success. Evolving Needs: How medical changes can shift a user from touch access to eye gaze over time. Advocacy & Support: Overcoming the challenges generalist SLPs face when navigating AAC. AAC isn't just about choosing technology—it’s about understanding the individual and ensuring they have the ongoing support to succeed. Knowledge and persistent advocacy make all the difference. CONNECT WITH US:• Subscribe to Assistive Tech Today: [https://www.youtube.com/@AssistiveTechTodayPodcast] • Follow Vinny Livoti on LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767] • Follow Rachel Clements on LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-clements-9aa24490] • Visit (Tobii Dynavox): [https://efunding.tobiidynavox.com] Comprehensive resource, by state, for SGDs and related equipment (for SLPs and families): TD-State-by-State-Funding-Guide.pdf SLP Resources: AAC Report Structure for SGD - TBI-JF.pdf SLP Evaluation and Report FAQs Funding Coach SLP Evaluation and Report FAQs For SLPs and families: How to get funding for speech generating devices - Tobii Dynavox Global “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.” "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. "AAC funding, speech generating devices, Tobii Dynavox, AAC evaluation, insurance for AAC, augmentative and alternative communication

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  Episode #19

  Ep.19 The Biggest Leap in Hearing Technology in Nearly 100 Years | Alison Mendez 7-30-26

  Aug 9, 202631 minS1

  Learn more about today's guest: How is modern hearing technology transforming accessibility for everyone—not just people with hearing loss? In this episode of Assistive Tech Today, host Vinny Livoti sits down with Alison Mendez (Senior Territory Sales Manager at ReSound) to explore groundbreaking innovations like AuraCast™ and Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio.Learn how these technologies stream audio directly to hearing aids, earbuds, and public venues like airports, theaters, and museums. Vinny and Alison also dive into the critical connection between hearing health and cognitive wellness, the evolution of medical-grade hearing aids vs. over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives, and the future of inclusion.CHAPTERS:0:00 - Introduction to Assistive Tech Today2:15 - Meet Alison Mendez & Her 25+ Year Journey6:30 - What is AuraCast™ & Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio?12:45 - Revolutionizing Public Spaces (Airports, Museums, Theaters)18:20 - Hearing Health, Cognitive Wellness & Brain Function24:10 - Medical-Grade Hearing Aids vs. Over-The-Counter (OTC)31:00 - The Future of Accessibility and InclusionABOUT ALISON MENDEZ:Alison Mendez is the Senior Territory Sales Manager at ReSound and a member of the company's Sales Advisory Council. With over 25 years of experience in hearing healthcare, her background spans clinical, educational, and industry roles: • Former Territory Representative at Cochlear • Former Educational Specialist at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary • Former Itinerant Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing • M.S. in Deaf Studies (Adelphi University) & B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders (University of Maryland)KEY TOPICS COVERED:• AuraCast™ and Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio applications• Accessibility infrastructure in public and community spaces• The link between hearing loss and cognitive decline• Why properly fitted, professional hearing care mattersCONNECT WITH US:• Subscribe to Assistive Tech Today: [https://open.spotify.com/show/5W8cDldTeydnlbFi2lI4I1]• Follow Alison Mendez on LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-mendez-2092389]• Visit ReSound: [https://www.resound.com/en-us/hearing-aids/resound-hearing-aids]• Follow Vinny Livoti on LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-livoti-46912767]“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.”"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. "#AssistiveTechnology #AuraCast #HearingHealth #Accessibility #Podcast #ReSound #HearingAids #cochlearimplant #cochlearimplants

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  Episode #18

  Ep. 18 Beyond the Device: How Assistive Technology Changes Lives | Dr. Ray Heipp 7-24-26

  Aug 2, 202634 minS1

  In this episode of Assistive Tech Today, I sit down with my longtime friend and colleague, Dr. Ray Heipp, an internationally respected educator, presenter, and assistive technology expert with decades of experience helping schools, therapists, and organizations create more inclusive learning environments.Rather than focusing on specific products, this conversation explores the bigger picture of assistive technology—how the right tools can unlock communication, build confidence, and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive.Together we discuss:Why assistive technology is really about people—not devicesHow consumer technology like smart speakers and AI is becoming more accessible.The importance of matching technology to each individual's unique abilities.Why "one size fits all" rarely works in assistive technology.How schools can better utilize equipment that's already sitting on shelves.Practical ways to normalize assistive technology in classroomsThe role therapists play in changing lives.Inspiring real-world success stories that demonstrate the life-changing impact of the right technology.Vinny also shares one of the most memorable stories from his career—how a simple eye-blink switch helped reconnect a young boy with the world after a devastating accident, ultimately leading him to graduate from college.Whether you're an educator, therapist, parent, clinician, or simply passionate about accessibility, this episode is a reminder that assistive technology isn't just about equipment—it's about giving people the opportunity to communicate, participate, and live more independent lives.Guest: Dr. Ray HeippPh.D. in Educational AdministrationEducational Technology & Assistive Technology ConsultantNational Presenter & Keynote SpeakerSchool Health Assistive Technology SpecialistLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymond-heipp-11aaaa11Email: Rheipp@schoolhealth.com On X: https://x.com/DrSmartEd “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."#assistivetechnology #adaptivetechnology #accessibility #inclusión #specialeducation #occupationaltherapy #specialneeds #speechtherapy

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  Episode #16

  Ep. 16 The Hidden Power of Isometrics: Safer Strength for Rehab, Mobility & Longevity | Chrys Johnson 7-16-26

  Jul 20, 202635 minS1

  In this episode of Assistive Tech Today , we sit down with Chrys Johnson , founder of No Limit Squad and a leading authority on modern isometric training. Discover how static strength training can be a game-changer for rehabilitation, injury prevention, and safe strength building. Chrys breaks down the essential science behind Yielding Isometrics (holding a position against resistance) and Overcoming Isometrics (pushing or pulling against an immovable object). We dive deep into how these low-impact, high-reward techniques can be adapted to improve joint health, preserve longevity, and maintain vital mobility for the elderly and individuals living with physical disabilities or limited mobility. Tune in to learn how to unlock maximum force production and build a resilient body without the traditional wear-and-tear of heavy weightlifting. Here are the links to Chrys Johnson's official social media accounts for his fitness platform, No Limit Squad: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NoLimitSquad Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nolimitchrys Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrys89 TikTok: (Note: His specific handle is @NoLimitSquad89) “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#IsometricTraining, #InjuryRehab, #AdaptiveFitness, #MobilityForElderly, #NoLimitSquad, #AssistiveTechToday

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  Episode #15

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

  Jun 14, 202628 minS1

  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.com https://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

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