Podcast Summary: The Blind Life Podcast

Episode 48: "Breaking Barriers: How ABLR Is Creating Real Jobs for the Blind"

Host: Sam Seavey
Guests: Mike Ianneli (CRO & Co-Founder, ABLR), Heather Buster (ABLR Program Graduate)
Release Date: December 31, 2025

Episode Overview

In this engaging and uplifting episode, Sam sits down with Mike Ianneli, Chief Revenue Officer and co-founder of ABLR (Abler), and Heather Buster, a visually impaired professional and graduate of ABLR's workforce development program. Together, they break down how ABLR is creating real, meaningful employment opportunities for blind and visually impaired individuals through their in-depth training, mentorships, internships, and continuous career support. The episode offers first-hand insight into the program’s impact, both from a leadership and graduate perspective.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. What is ABLR and Its Mission? (01:11–07:05)

• Mike describes ABLR as a nonprofit, mission-driven disability inclusion and digital accessibility company focused on eradicating barriers for people with disabilities, especially visual impairments.

  "We are built around the human in the loop—what we call it—where all of our testing is done by human beings that are native users of assistive technology." — Mike (01:35)

• The company assists major organizations (Lenovo, Ulta Beauty, etc.) in making their digital assets accessible.
• ABLR’s work includes:
  • Digital accessibility testing/services (with real users)
  • Large-scale training on disability etiquette
  • Workforce development programs aligned with state blind/vocational rehabilitation services
• Success metrics: Over 40 program graduates, 77% employment rate at organizations such as Lenovo, LC Industries, Ulta Beauty, and Pegasystems.

Notable Quote

"Meeting John and being exposed to folks with different types of disabilities...it was transformative. It changes the way you are as a human being." — Mike on his inspiration (04:14)

2. The Importance of Accessibility and Inclusion (03:44–07:05)

• Mike shares his personal journey from working in mainstream advertising to finding deep fulfillment and purpose in disability inclusion.
• Business Case: Organizations are losing out on customers and talent by neglecting accessibility.
• Ethical Responsibility: Creating digital spaces that everyone can use is simply "the right thing."

3. Heather’s Journey: From Frustration to Opportunity (07:05–13:21)

• Origin story: After a frustrating inaccessible update to her mobile platform, Heather started researching disability law and digital accessibility.
• Her low vision doctor connected her to the ABLR program.

  "I was just stunned... I didn't know about digital accessibility. I didn't even know it was a thing." — Heather (09:32)

• As a long-term magnification user, Heather learned the transformative value of screen readers through the program.

Notable Quote

"Once you see, you can’t unsee it. So when you get on a website or app and you’re like: ‘Wow, look at that color contrast...that’s not even accessible...’" — Heather (11:05)

4. Program Experience & Training Structure (13:21–21:21)

• Heather's experience:
  • 16-week digital accessibility analyst course with modules, guest speakers, and mentorships.
  • Rigorous certification process (CPACC—Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies).
  • Followed by a 24-week paid, virtual internship working on real-world accessibility projects.
• Skills developed: Accessibility standards (WCAG), screen reader/magnifier usage, résumé building, interview prep, LinkedIn management, and presentation skills.

Notable Quotes

"The attention to detail every step of the way...I could just go on." — Heather on the course design (14:47) "We're not here just for eye candy, to help people pass through content... Acceptance is not easy, but it is doable." — Mike (17:25)

5. Outcomes & Real-World Impact (21:21–26:03)

• The program far exceeded Heather’s expectations:

  “Met and far exceeded. Yes. I’m one of the biggest cheerleaders for this program.” — Heather (21:23)

• ABLR equips students with practical tools and confidence, creates a supportive alumni community, and connects graduates to meaningful technology roles.
• Testimonials on making user experience feedback videos, which help companies “see through the eyes” of users with low vision.

6. Matching Talent & Creating a Talent Pipeline (23:14–28:25)

• Each participant receives personalized career guidance, job tracking support, and ongoing access to job developers who liaise with corporations seeking diverse talent.
• Emphasis on the program’s demanding nature, designed to prepare graduates for high standards in the workforce.

  “We’re not here just for fun. The program is a real deal program, and it’s hard...but that’s what you want.” — Mike (28:25)

7. Program Logistics & Accessibility (31:28–32:42)

• Program is 100% virtual, including the paid internship.
• Transportation is not a barrier—participants can learn and work from home.
• ABLR works with state agencies; currently active in 7 states (expanding).
• Assistance is provided to connect prospective students to Division of Services for the Blind counselors.

8. Expansion & Additional Offerings (34:05–35:06)

• Pre-ETS Program: For high school students with visual impairments, offering career exploration and exposure.
• Accelerated Program: For college graduates or those seeking fast-tracked job readiness and placement.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Mike on the power of lived experience in testing:

  “You can’t say one thing and then expect another. We’re all about universal inclusion.” (17:25)

• Heather’s advice for learners:

  “Learn how to use a screen reader. NVDA is a free program... Start your kids young.” (11:51)

• Sam relating to accessibility awareness:

  “Now, having done this job, having worked with assistive technology so long, I’m the exact same way going into any website...” (13:21)

• Mike on what companies need:

  “When an employer thinks about what they’re looking for... that’s the first thing I want [in an employee]: loyal, hungry, motivated.” (24:45)

Timestamps of Key Segments

• ABLR’s Mission & Digital Inclusion – 01:11–07:05
• Heather’s Journey & Finding ABLR – 07:05–13:21
• Program Experience & Screen Reader Discovery – 13:21–14:47
• Training Modules, Certification, and Internships – 14:47–17:25
• Mentorship, Job Readiness, and Career Placement – 17:25–28:25
• Alumni & Community Support – 23:14–26:03
• Program Accessibility & State Participation – 31:28–32:42
• Youth & Accelerated Programs – 34:05–35:06

Ways To Learn More & Get Involved

• Visit: abler360.com/theblindlife
• Contact Mike: michael.ianneli@abler360.com
• Contact Heather: hbuster1@mail.com
• Programs are available for adults and high school students; virtual, paid internships are a key feature.

Closing Thoughts

Both guests emphasize that true inclusion means more than checking boxes—it requires investment, real-world training, and belief in the untapped potential of blind and visually impaired individuals. ABLR's program is rigorous but transformational, offering personalized support and building a pipeline of skilled, motivated professionals ready to make their mark in the digital accessibility landscape.

“Now that we know, once you see, you can’t unsee it.” — Heather Buster (11:05)