Evie Roberts is a 16-year-old blind podcaster from the Isle of Man, who started the podcast Talking in the Dark. She chats to people from all walks of life - including celebrities, authors and activists - while raising awareness about blindness, visual impairment and disability in a light-hearted way.
What made you want to launch a podcast?
My drama teacher encouraged me to start one. At first, I was really apprehensive because I'd just started high school and I was pretty shy. But he kept asking me every year, and by the time I eventually started it I was 13 and felt more comfortable. The idea for it came very quickly: I wanted to raise awareness about visual impairment and disabilities.
Do you have a favourite podcast guest?
I can't not mention Stephen Fry. I've known of him since I was about six years old because he narrates the Harry Potter books and they've been a massive source of comfort for me throughout my life. So, getting to actually talk to him and hear that voice, which is so well known to me, was special. Speaking to Nile Rodgers was also very cool.
What do you think is the biggest stereotype about blind people?
When people think of someone who's blind, they think of someone who reads Braille, uses a white cane or has a guide dog, but that's not necessarily the case. Blindness is a spectrum, and you can be registered legally blind while still having some sight, for example.
What else do you enjoy doing when you are not working on the podcast?
I am really into music, whether it's listening to it, playing the flute or singing in choirs. I now play in the Manx Youth Orchestra and read Braille music. I'm also a horse rider - I ride with RDA [Riding for the Disabled Association] Isle of Man every Friday. But when I'm not doing that, I love hanging out with my friends.
What is your favourite way of consuming content?
I'm a big social media user - just like any other teenager. I spend a lot of my time scrolling on TikTok and Instagram, which are both screen reader accessible.
Who is your role model?
One that's very close to home and may sound a bit cliche is probably my mum. It's always been just the two of us and she has been such a rock for me throughout my life.
If you could teleport to anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I love the idea of travelling, even though it freaks me out a little bit. I've always liked to go to Australia.
What would you like to do when you are older?
I really want to go into journalism or radio presenting - that would be the dream.
Who would be your dream interviewee?
100 per cent Taylor Swift. I think she is such an incredible songwriter and person, and I would absolutely love the opportunity to talk to her.
The Talking in the Dark podcast is available to stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.
