Clive Live
Speaking about digital accessibility, inclusion and the internet we have accidentally built
I first started public speaking around 2008, mostly at networking breakfasts where the coffee was strong, the bacon rolls were doing their best, and everyone had about sixty seconds to explain what they did for a living.
At first, I spoke about websites, Google, and the practical things businesses needed to understand online. I have never sold Search Engine Optimisation services, which meant I could talk about Google without trying to sell anyone a magic ranking potion in a shiny bottle.
Over time, my talks became more focused on digital accessibility.
That is where my real passion sits. I want people to understand how many websites, apps, and digital services exclude disabled people, often without anyone in the organisation realising it is happening.
Making accessibility understandable
Digital accessibility can sound technical, legal, or intimidating. It does not need to be.
When I speak, I try to make the subject human. I talk about real people, real barriers, and real examples of things that go wrong online every day.
The aim is not to make people feel guilty. The aim is to help them see what they have not seen before.
Once people understand the problem, they are usually much more willing to do something about it.
From networking rooms to TEDx
Over the years, I have spoken at networking events, business groups, conferences, and online events. I have also learned, occasionally the hard way, that knowing a subject deeply does not mean you should try to empty your entire brain into the room in one go.
Apparently, audiences like oxygen. Who knew?
In 2022, I gave my TEDx talk, The Internet's Accessibility Problem and How To Fix It. That talk was later featured on TED.com and has now received over one million views.
The response showed me how many people are ready to understand digital accessibility once it is explained clearly, practically, and with real human examples.
What I speak about
I speak about digital accessibility, inclusive design, disabled user testing, the business case for accessibility, the legal landscape, the European Accessibility Act, and the practical steps organisations can take to improve their websites and digital services.
I can also talk about my own story, including how Access by Design began, why accessibility became central to our work, and why I still believe we can change the world, one website at a time.
My talks can be adapted for business audiences, public sector teams, web developers, designers, marketers, leadership teams, and anyone else who needs to understand why accessibility matters.
Previous interviews and media appearances
I have spoken about digital accessibility, websites, and inclusion on radio, video interviews, podcasts, business events, and TEDx. Some of these appearances are older now, but they are part of the journey that led to the work I do today.
Book me to speak
I am available for conferences, business events, webinars, workshops, panels, and internal team sessions.
Weddings, funerals, and embroidery classes may be considered on a case-by-case basis, although I cannot promise to stay on topic.
If you would like me to speak at your event, please get in touch.