Episode
BLT Is Back: Tech, Travel, and a Fresh Start
- Podcast
- Blind Level Tech
- Published
- Jan 14, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1813
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://share.transistor.fm/s/9e38fb8c
Actions
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Summary
In this welcome-back episode of Blind Level Tech, host Evan Starnes explains the unexpected hiatus that caused several months of episodes to temporarily disappear, sharing honest reflections on burnout, creative fatigue, and the need to recalibrate. Rather than pushing for constant growth, Evan introduces 2026 as a “stabilization year” for BLT — a chance to refine what already works, improve consistency, and rediscover the joy of creating the show. Evan also walks listeners through a small but meaningful update to the show’s intro, retiring the voiceover while keeping the familiar BLT music intact. He invites listeners to help shape the future of the show by offering feedback, ideas, and even tagline suggestions. The episode then shifts into tech coverage, starting with an in-depth accessibility-focused review of a recent Amtrak trip, highlighting strong tactile and Braille labeling on trains, mixed accessibility in sleeper car controls, and significant usability issues with Amtrak’s app and website. Evan also shares a standout accessibility feature from Chicago Union Station, where audible track number announcements made navigation intuitive and efficient. Rounding out the episode is a robust tech news segment, including new features for Meta Ray-Ban and Oakley Vanguard glasses, Southwest Airlines’ integration with Apple Wallet, and a lighthearted Sandwich of the Week inspired by Chicago cuisine. Evan closes by previewing what he’s excited to follow in 2026 — from AI accessibility improvements to autonomous vehicles in Denver. Key Topics & Segments • The BLT hiatus: burnout, reflection, and creative reset • 2026 as a “stabilization year” for Blind Level Tech • Intro update: retiring the voiceover, keeping the iconic music • Listener feedback invitation and open co…