A Conversation with Blind Comedian Chris McCausland
Double Tap
Embracing Assistive Technology
This chapter explores the role of technology in improving accessibility for individuals with visual impairments, sharing both triumphs and challenges with assistive apps. The conversation highlights the speaker's journey through early computing to modern tools, reflecting on how advancements like the iPhone have revolutionized user experience.
In today's special episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece sit down for an hour-long chat with Chris McCausland, one of the UK's most celebrated blind comedians, and recent Strictly Come Dancing winner. Chris shares his incredible journey—from his early struggles with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) to becoming a national treasure, and how his career in comedy has evolved.
Chris opens up about:
Winning Strictly Come Dancing – Overcoming fears and representing the blind community
Navigating fame – The impact of public perception and being seen as ‘normal’
The role of humor in disability – Breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes
Tech and accessibility – How the iPhone changed his life and why AI is the biggest game-changer
His future projects – From live tours to book writing and a potential TV game show
With his signature wit, honesty, and humor, Chris delivers an unfiltered look at life as a blind comedian, the power of representation, and why he still gets anxious buying a loaf of bread despite performing in front of thousands.
Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.
Chapter Markers:
00:00 Introduction to Chris McCausland
02:03 The Journey to Strictly Come Dancing
06:08 Overcoming Fears and Expectations
09:55 The Emotional Impact of Dancing
14:02 Navigating Humor and Disability
18:10 Representation and Responsibility
22:13 The Future of Disability Representation
28:14 Understanding Hereditary Conditions and Sight Loss
30:26 The Emotional Journey of Acceptance
32:50 The Shift from Deterioration to Acceptance
35:37 The Role of Technology in Accessibility
40:42 Navigating the World of Tech and Accessibility
52:23 The Art of Comedy and Memory
54:55 Future Endeavors and Projects
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About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.
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About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.
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