In this episode of Blind Level Tech, Evan sits down with Sam Proulx to dig deep into Fable, a company helping major brands improve web accessibility through real testing by people with disabilities. Sam explains what Fable is, how it started in Canada, and how it grew from a small group of screen reader users into a multinational accessibility testing community that now includes people who use screen magnification, alternative navigation methods (switch control, eye gaze, voice dictation), and more.
Sam and Evan talk about why accessibility can’t stop at checkbox compliance, and why real usability and joy matter just as much as meeting standards. Sam shares a helpful analogy: requirements are like building codes for architects—essential, but not enough to create something people actually enjoy using. They also explore how accessibility needs change based on context (banking vs social media vs gaming), and why “fit for purpose” matters.
Later, Sam breaks down how companies work with Fable through subscriptions (with monthly requests that don’t roll over to encourage ongoing testing) or project-based engagements for agencies and smaller orgs. He also explains how individuals can join the Fable testing community, what training looks like, how requests are offered, and why the waitlist exists (so testers actually get meaningful paid work). The conversation closes with a strong message about networking, disability employment, and building accessible futures—together with allies.
- Join Fable’s tester community: makeitfable.com/community
- Learn about Fable: makeitfable.com
- (Mentioned) Community page path: makeitfable.com/community (and “/slash community” as spoken)
Aftersight / Blind Level Tech feedback:
Show Credits
Show: Blind Level Tech (Aftersight Original)
Host: Evan Starnes
Guest: Samuel “Sam” Proulx (Fable)
Organization Mentioned: Fable (web accessibility testing and auditing)
producer: Evan Starnes
- (00:00) - — Holiday intro + setting up the episode
- (02:16) - — What is Fable?
- (02:53) - — How Fable started (founders + early days)
- (06:43) - — Expanding the disability testing community
- (10:55) - — Beyond WCAG: accessible and enjoyable
- (12:42) - — “Fit for purpose” accessibility
- (14:55) - — How companies engage Fable (subscriptions + requests)
- (17:16) - — Project-based testing + agency model
- (19:43) - — Balancing disability leadership with allies
- (25:02) - — How to join Fable as a tester
- (32:34) - — Where accessibility is heading
- (34:15) - — Wrap-up + networking + disability employment
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What is Blind Level Tech?
Where accessibility meets innovation. Hosted by Evan Starnes, Blind Level Tech explores the latest in assistive technology, accessible design, and everyday tools that empower the blind and low-vision community. Each episode dives into real stories, expert insights, and practical solutions—from screen readers and AI tools to mobility tech and inclusive apps. Whether you’re blind, low vision, a professional in the accessibility space, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping lives, this show offers fresh perspectives and actionable takeaways.
Produced by Aftersight, Blind Level Tech is more than a tech podcast—it’s a platform for inclusion, discovery, and possibility.