Episode 5

Accessibility Isn’t a Limitation — It’s an Invitation to Design for More People

Sam Smith, who leads accessibility at Coinbase, shares his journey from front-end engineer to accessibility leader. He discusses scaling accessibility through design systems, transforming accessibility from an afterthought into a strategic advantage, and how rapid product development changes the way accessibility teams operate. Sam also explores the role of AI in development workflows and why personalization—features like high-contrast mode and adaptable interfaces—may represent the next frontier of inclusive design.

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About the Podcast

Digital Accessibility

The People Behind the Progress

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About your host

Joe Welinske

Joe Welinske provides consulting for organizations needing assistance with digital accessibility.
With over 25 years of experience with accessibility, Joe can help you make sure you are enjoying the benefits of digital products that work for people with all abilities.
Joe has been credentialed as a Certified Professional in Core Competency Accessibility by IAAP and as a Section 508 Trusted Tester.
Joe serves as Accessibility Director at Blink - an evidence-driven design agency. As Director, Joe is responsible for helping Blink's practitioners to build accessibility into everything they do. He also evangelizes the need for accessibility with Blink's clients and partners.
Joe is a co-organizer of the Seattle Inclusive Design and Accessibility meetup group and he has served as the Secretary of the King County Metro Paratransit Advisory Committee.