Inclusive vs Intrusive Technology: When “Accessible” Tech Crosses the Line | 3 Spoonies

3Spoonies Episode Number 55, 14th May 2026
With Karen Duncan, Jo O’Neil and Claire Napper

In this episode we’re talking about inclusive vs intrusive technology — and asking an important question:
When does “accessible” technology stop supporting people… and start crossing boundaries?

As technology becomes more embedded in everyday life — from AI tools and monitoring systems to workplace software and assistive tech — it’s often introduced in the name of inclusion. But good intentions don’t always result in good outcomes.

We also talk about the emotional and practical impact of intrusive technology — from increased stress and fatigue to loss of privacy and independence — and why accessibility should never come at the cost of dignity.

This episode challenges the idea that more tech automatically equals better access and asks what truly inclusive technology should look like when it’s designed with people, not imposed on them.

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If you’d like to find out more about our hosts;
Jo O’Neil
Website: https://bright-cat.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-oneil/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrightCatBusiness

Claire Napper
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-napper
Website: www.blackveilstationery.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Blackveilstationery

Karen Duncan
Website: http://www.ponyponypony.co.uk
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/PonyPonyPony
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PonyPonyPonyCourses

Sponsors
A HUGE thank to our main episode sponsor:
Lisa Greener – Green Cat Books
Founded in 2017 by fellow spoonie Lisa Greener, Green Cat Books has supported nearly 70 authors and published over 120 titles. We handle the production side of publishing so authors can focus on writing, work, or simply taking time to rest.
Our catalogue includes children’s books, sci-fi, romance, and poetry, alongside audiobooks and videobooks, with selected titles now available on Spotify and Audible. We also promote independent creators and offer an affiliate programme for book lovers who want to share and earn.
Find out more:
www.greencatbooks.com

And to our advert sponsors!
Men Forge Forward
Men Forge Forward is a free online community where professional men under pressure reclaim their edge through brotherhood, accountability, and the 30-day FireUP Challenge.
menforgeforward.com

Nic Gray
The Anti-Hustle Hub is a supportive online community for neurodivergent entrepreneurs who want accountability, connection and sustainable ways of working, without burnout
https://nicgray.co.uk/the-anti-hustle-hub
https://nicgray.co.uk
https://facebook.com/nicgrayadhd

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Chapters:
00:00 Welcome
00:26 Sponsor: Green Cat Books
00:58 Intro
01:32 What is inclusive technology?
03:14 Voice dictation, screen readers, and accessibility tools
05:18 Voice assistants
08:02 Zoom, captions, and remote accessibility
12:03 AI writing tools and communication support
18:40 Live transcription and AI accessibility features
22:32 Health trackers and wearable tech
28:26 What is intrusive technology?
29:12 Targeted ads and personalised content
33:08 Health tracking vs privacy concerns
36:53 Workplace monitoring and productivity tracking
39:55 Accessibility vs privacy trade-offs
44:57 Smart assistants and always-listening concerns
49:08 AI risks, misuse, and ethical concerns
54:45 App permissions and phone privacy risks
58:36 Scam calls, spam, and phone security
01:00:51 Final thoughts and wrap-up
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