CNIB Lake Joe is universally accessible and the only fully accessible camp in Canada for people who are blind, partially sighted, and Deafblind. In this article we interviewed Taylor Gaudon, CNIBLakeJoe@Home Virtual Program Coordinator and podcast producer, about the latest podcast that explores the accessibility features at camp that make it possible for people to enjoy camp independently with confidence.
You can subscribe and listen to Episode 5: Accessibility at CNIB Lake Joe on: iTunes / Spotify / Stitcher / Overcast / Soundcloud / YouTube
What inspired you to create this particular podcast?
Taylor: CNIB Lake Joe has a variety of accessibility features at camp so that when people come, they can interact with the site as independently as possible. When guests arrive, staff give site tours to show them the layout and the amenities we have available, as well as pointing out accessibility features. This podcast episode is an audible version of our site tour so that people could listen to it before they came to camp, or even after camp if they are feeling nostalgic and want a virtual walkaround.
Emilee Schevers, Coordinator, Sports & Active Living also collaborated on this particular episode. Just like me, Emilee is very passionate about the accessibility features at camp. We want to ensure that this audio podcast goes into the fine details of accessibility.
What makes a podcast work for this particular goal?
Taylor: I studied film at Sheridan College, graduating in 2021 with an HBA in Film and Television, with a focus in sound design and editing. I love the podcast platform because it doesn’t rely on visual elements – it’s purely audio. It also doesn’t make a difference if you’re onsite at camp or listening to the audio from wherever you are.
How do you hope people will use the podcast?
Taylor: We wanted to create a podcast episode to run through an audible version of a site tour so that first-timers could get familiar with the layout of CNIB Lake Joe ahead of their visit, and past guests could get a refresher. The podcast is very portable with many of our guests using smart phones. They can listen to it anywhere and take a piece of CNIB Lake Joe with them. It’s great that staff and volunteers can provide sighted guide assistance to our guests, but there’s something empowering about people navigating independently and confidently.
What will the next podcast be about?
Taylor: As the 2023 in-person season wraps up, I want to talk with guests who have taken part in different program weeks and hear about their experiences at camp. The podcast is a cool opportunity to involve members of our community. They’re a part of this process and a part of the storytelling. I want to take something that I’m interested in and passionate about and engage and involve community members in this process.
Do you have a podcast idea? Want to be part of a future podcast? Please contact Taylor at taylor.gaudon@cnib.ca.