#133 – Blake Bertuccelli-Booth on Automated Accessibility Testing in WordPress

On the podcast today we have Matthias Pupillo, co-founder of FluentC.ai. He's here to discuss AI-driven language translations, with a focus upon WordPress websites. Matthias has a rich background in technology and WordPress, and reveals how FluentC enables translations in up to 140 languages within seconds by leveraging AI models, and creating a contextual layer for high-quality outputs. He also shares insights on the future of AI translations, the importance of open-source models, and potential integration with WordPress Core, reflecting on the broader implications for the industry. If you're interested in the intersection of AI and WordPress, or are looking to enhance your website's multilingual capabilities, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Jonathan Bossenger. Jonathan discusses his transition from software development to becoming a developer educator for WordPress. He emphasises the importance of making WordPress learning accessible globally through the Learn platform, providing up-to-date, freely available educational content. The conversation highlights the platform's transformative potential with tools like Playground, enabling interactive coding practice. Jonathan talks about the challenges of keeping content current, structured learning pathways for different user levels, and the role of contributors in translating and internationalising content. He also invites listeners to participate in the Learn project. If you’re curious about how people learn about WordPress, and how you can be a part of that project, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Chris Ferdinandi. He shares his experiences managing ADHD in both his personal and professional life. Chris describes how ADHD affects his focus, impulse control, and emotions, viewing these traits as both challenges and potential strengths. He offers practical strategies for ADHD individuals, such as structuring workdays with dedicated focus times and utilising small tasks to kickstart productivity. Chris also discusses the importance of workplace accommodations and understanding ADHD subtypes. For those curious about transforming ADHD-related challenges into career strengths, Chris provides further insights and resources on his website. If you're curious about how ADHD can turn challenges into career strengths, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Blake Bertuccelli-Booth, a web designer and founder of Equalify, a company focused on improving web accessibility. Blake's journey into web accessibility advocacy began through his work with higher education organisations and his personal experiences with dyslexia. The episode gets into Blake's development of an automated tool that surveys websites for accessibility issues, revealing over 2.1 million issues across wordpress.org properties. Blake discusses the moral imperative of web accessibility, its real-world impacts, and the need for better education for developers and designers. If you're passionate about web accessibility or eager to learn how your work can make a tangible difference in people's lives, this episode is for you.

Katie Keith, founder and CEO of Barn2 Plugins, and Matt Cromwell, co-founder of GiveWP, discuss their podcast 'WP Product Talk' where they interview WordPress product owners about running successful businesses. They summarise insights from their interviews and unveil a blueprint for building successful WordPress products, presented at WordCamp Europe. Key topics include enhancing the WordPress admin interface, organic content marketing, market gap identification, and event attendance. They emphasise explainer videos, correct product pricing, customer feedback, the importance of transparency, human touch, and an updated 'About Us. page. If you’re a WordPress product developer or just interested in the intricate world of WordPress business, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Abraham Waita, a Woo Happiness Engineer at Automattic. Abraham is deeply involved in the WordPress communities in Kenya and Uganda and recently spoke at WordCamp Europe. The discussion centers on Abraham's efforts to introduce WordPress to high schools in Uganda, fostering a young and rapidly growing WordPress community through the ICT curriculum. We delve into the community's growth, challenges, and the essential role of sponsorships and hardware donations. The conversation also highlights the broader impact on students' futures and ways companies and individuals can support this educational initiative. If you're passionate about education, WordPress, or community growth, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Elena Panciera, an expert in inclusive and accessible languages, and Chiara Pennetta, a special needs educator and deaf advocacy expert, discussing web accessibility for the deaf. They cover the importance of captions and simplification in web content to aid understanding for deaf users and non-native speakers. New technologies, such as AI tools and real-time transcription apps, are highlighted for their role in enhancing communication. The discussion also touches on the European Accessibility Act and its implications for web developers. Whether you’re a web developer, event planner, or just passionate about accessibility, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Eneko Garrido, a full-stack developer who became an active WordPress contributor after attending his first WordCamp in Bilbao in 2019. Eneko's involvement in WordPress began during a challenging period marked by anxiety and depression. The inclusive and supportive atmosphere of WordCamp Bilbao inspired Eneko to engage more deeply with the community. He found particular joy in contributing as a polyglot for the Basque locale, strengthening his connection to his cultural roots. Eneko shares how the community opened new career opportunities, fostered lasting friendships, and helped him navigate challenges, including an autism diagnosis in 2021. The episode highlights his preparations for speaking at WordCamp Europe, showcasing his personal and professional growth within the WordPress community. If you're interested in hearing a heartfelt story about the life-changing potential of the WordPress community, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Fernando Tellado a prominent figure in the Spanish WordPress community. Fernando discusses the emerging capabilities of AI tools which can generate massive amounts of content quickly. He questions the implications for content quality, and Google's role in distinguishing reliable information. Touching on the evolution of technology, Fernando draws parallels to changes brought about by the industrial revolution, and discusses AI replacing jobs and the addictive nature of mobile phones, especially for children. He argues for responsible technology use, urging parents to guide their children and advocates for a balance between technological advancement and human well-being. If you’re intrigued by the intersection of AI, WordPress, and the call for responsible and reflective use of technology, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Rian Rietveld, a specialist in the accessibility field. We discuss the European Accessibility Act (EAA) which mandates that public service websites and products must be accessible by June 28, 2025. Key topics include practical steps for ensuring accessibility, the importance of training and constant monitoring, and the economic benefits of accessible websites. Rian emphasises the moral obligation of inclusivity and the need for an accessibility statement. Exemptions for small companies are also noted during our chat. If you’re interested in understanding the implications of the European Accessibility Act and how to make your websites more inclusive, this episode is for you.