Robotic pets can offer the elderly a source of companionship with studies showing they can improve mood and enhance social interaction. They are especially helpful for those who have lost a spouse or real pet. In this episode Elaine talks to Emma Hardaker about the MetaDog which has soft fur, expressive eyes and is able to mimic the gestures of real dogs without the mess. They also discuss the MetaCat and the MetaPanda which is coming soon to Australia.

Original air date: 28.11.25

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In this episode of Ablequest, Elaine speaks to Rima Ramezani about the benefits of art therapy, and how it provides a sense of comfort and expression for people living with disability.

Original broadcast date: 14.11.25

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Pete Horsley is the Founder of Remarkable, a global start up and initiative of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Pete is passionate about harnessing technology to build better products for a better world. His sister Jo was born blind, autistic and with an intellectual disability. That experience shaped the way he sees the world. In this interview with Elaine Wziontek he discusses some of the latest start ups which are supported by Remarkable and which will be showcased on the 11th of November at the Sydney Town Hall. The Disability Summit 2025 will bring together researchers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to connect, collaborate ad discuss AI and inclusive design.

Original air date: 31.10.25

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David Woodbridge, an expert in assistive technology for people with no or low vision, is a regular guest on Ablequest. He is now Braille Product Specialist for tech company Humanware and joins Barbara Sullivan to talk about the significant advances in braille technology at Humanware and also on the various iOS devices from Apple.

Original air date: 17.10.25

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Julie Ross-Edwards, founder of Head High Disability Services, returns to Ablequest to speak more about Head High's philosophy and special approach. She explains to Barbara Sullivan how she works with her young adult clients with intellectual and other disabilities to develop socially and achieve their potential in the workplace.

Original air date: 03.10.25

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Two years ago Maggie O'Connell, in her mid 20's never had a full time job. Now, Maggie who lives with autism, is working as a full time data analyst with the Australian Federal Police and mentoring the next generation of cyber security experts.

Maggie explains to Elaine Wziontek, autistic individuals can have exceptional abilities in pattern recognition, attention to detail and intense focus - all useful skills in cybersecurity.

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Laura Boccanfuso is founder and CEO of Van Robotics, a social robotics company based in South Carolina in the United States. She is also inventor of ABii, a smart robot tutor which is being trialled for pre-schoolers in Australia. The initiative is with the Australian Catholic University, Cincinnati University, the Brainary Association in Australia and Parramatta Libraries in Sydney. Elaine Wziontek spoke to Laura about her creation and how technology can help young children learn.

Original air date: 22.08.25

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Music can evoke emotions that bring back memories and the same is true for people living with dementia. Music therapy and singing helps people with dementia according to Dr Zara Thompson, a classically trained musician and music therapist at The University of Melbourne.

Zara spoke to Elaine Wziontek about how listening to familiar songs brings back memories, even when they have trouble speaking or remembering. As she explains through her words and songs, it can be easier to find words during 'music time.'

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