Introduction to the Jukebox Podcast

Welcome to the Jukebox Podcast from WP Tavern, hosted by Nathan Wrigley. This podcast is dedicated to all things WordPress, including the people, events, plugins, blocks, themes, and teaching and using WordPress with low vision.

About the Guest: Bud Kraus

Bud Kraus was diagnosed with macular degeneration at the age of 37, a condition that affects his central vision. Despite the challenges, Bud continues to live a full life, facing the hurdles of vision loss with resilience and optimism. He creates WordPress content, teaches coding, and hosts his own podcast, "Seriously, Bud?".

Bud’s Experience with Low Vision

Bud’s central vision loss makes it difficult for him to see straight ahead, recognize faces, drive, or read. However, his peripheral vision remains intact, allowing him to navigate daily life without a cane or guide dog. He has learned to adapt, using technology and other tools to overcome the challenges of low vision.

Adapting to Technology

Bud uses a low resolution on his computer to make the screen easier to see, and he adjusts the icon and font sizes to make them bigger. He also uses Zoom and audio features to help him navigate the digital world. When using a new computer, Bud has to combat the default settings to make the necessary adjustments.

WordPress and Accessibility

Bud doesn’t use screen readers or other assistive technologies, instead relying on the built-in features of his operating system. When building websites, he asks for help with color choices and relies on his wife’s input. Bud doesn’t make websites himself, but he does write technical articles and creates content for WordPress businesses.

Teaching and Education

Bud is a teacher at heart and enjoys sharing his knowledge with others. He writes tutorials and creates content to help others learn WordPress and coding. His talk at WordCamp US focuses on using low vision as a tool to help him teach WordPress, and he shares his experiences and adaptations with the audience.

Upcoming Presentation

Bud’s presentation at WordCamp US will be live-streamed, and he is preparing by memorizing his slides and content. He doesn’t get nervous about public speaking, partly because he can’t see the audience’s faces, which helps him focus on his message.

Conclusion

Nathan thanks Bud for sharing his story and experiences, and Bud expresses his appreciation for being on the podcast. The episode concludes with an invitation to listeners to watch Bud’s presentation at WordCamp US, which will be available on WordPress.tv.