Ep. 210: Navigating Web Accessibility with Blind But Unstoppable Maxwell Ivey

Imagine navigating the online world without being able to see it. For most of us, it’s a quick look, click, and scroll. But for Maxwell Ivey, who is blind, accessing the digital world takes screen readers, patience, and grit.

In this episode, Max reveals his journey from learning to code out of necessity (while blind) to founding the Accessibility Advantage Consultancy, which advocates for a truly inclusive digital experience. Max’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and why accessibility isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Max (aka “the Blind Blogger,”) has been breaking barriers online since 2007. With over a decade of experience navigating digital spaces as a visually impaired entrepreneur, Max now educates business owners on the power of accessibility through his consultancy.

He’s also an Eagle Scout, an author, a speaker, and a podcast host, leveraging his personal journey to make digital spaces more inclusive.

WE ALSO TALKED ABOUT

• The unique challenges and tools Max uses to navigate the web as a blind business owner. 
• How AI is making strides in accessibility but still has a long way to go. 
• The critical role of screen readers, adaptive tech, and accessible web design for inclusivity. 
• Practical steps small business owners can take to improve their site’s accessibility. 
• Max’s advice on overcoming barriers, finding support, and building a business with disabilities. 
• Why designing for keyboard navigation first can make your site more accessible to all users. 
• How product accessibility reviews and his work with AudioEye impact the lives of visually impaired users. 

Have a listen to this interesting episode with Maxwell Ivey to discover how you can make your business more accessible and inclusive.

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Accessibility Advantage Consultancy – https://theaccessibilityadvantage.com/ 
• The Blind Blogger – https://theblindblogger.net   
• AudioEye – https://www.audioeye.com 
• Wave Accessibility Checker – https://wave.webaim.org
• LEGO Braille Bricks – https://www.lego.com/en-au/theme/braille-bricks/about

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Trudy Rankin is the host of the Online Business Launchpad Podcast, Director of West Island Digital and the founder of the Online Business Lift-Off program.

Affiliate Disclaimer: If you click on links on this page and then make a purchase, I may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you).  I am a proud affiliate of these resources because I use them in my own life and business.

The transcript for this episode can be found here.

Resources

• Accessibility Advantage Consultancy – https://theaccessibilityadvantage.com/ 
• The Blind Blogger – https://theblindblogger.net   
• AudioEye – https://www.audioeye.com 
• Wave Accessibility Checker – https://wave.webaim.org
• LEGO Braille Bricks – https://www.lego.com/en-au/theme/braille-bricks/about

Today’s Expert

Maxwell Ivey

Maxwell Ivey, also known as the Blind Blogger, is a visually impaired entrepreneur who’s been navigating digital spaces since 2007. With extensive experience in accessibility, he founded the Accessibility Advantage Consultancy to help businesses understand and implement inclusive practices. Max is also an author, speaker, and podcast host, widely respected for his authentic approach and dedication to creating accessible digital experiences.

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