https://simplecast.com Reflections Listen in on how we make sense of the world, through conversation and the lens of lived experience, weaving our questions with your stories. 2025 Accessible Media Inc. en Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:00:12 +0000 https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com Reflections https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/c1f7074b-1a77-4fd0-b874-36e07b5a5765/588f8dbc-576e-4f68-9ef4-ae866ac9ed84/3000x3000/reflections-1400x1400.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com episodic Listen in on how we make sense of the world, through conversation and the lens of lived experience, weaving our questions with your stories. Accessible Media Inc. false https://feeds.simplecast.com/oxtmAjBB accessibility, accessible, ami, ami audio, ami-audio, blind, disability, documentary, partially sighted, personal stories, radio AMI podcasts@ami.ca 6817dc40-c04d-4157-ba3e-9f35047f4b23 The Tipping Point: Why We Feel Pressured to Tip Everywhere Tipping, it’s something many of us do without thinking. But what’s really behind this cultural norm? Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the psychological pressures and social expectations that shape how and why we tip.

We hear from Brody Robinson, a server at the Singing Chef in London, Ontario, who shares what tipping looks like from the front lines of the service industry. 

Dr. Cortney Norris brings us the service professional’s perspective, drawing on her review titled “50+ Years of Restaurant Tipping Research,” and what it reveals about power dynamics between customers and workers.

Dr. William Michael Lynn, author of The Psychology of Tipping, helps us unpack why we tip, even when service doesn’t meet expectations.

From real-life experiences to decades of research, let's take a closer look at what happens when the bill arrives.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Brody Robinson, Dr. Cortney Norris, Dr. William Michael Lynn) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-tipping-point-why-we-feel-pressured-to-tip-everywhere-uNtzgXyT Tipping, it’s something many of us do without thinking. But what’s really behind this cultural norm? Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the psychological pressures and social expectations that shape how and why we tip.

We hear from Brody Robinson, a server at the Singing Chef in London, Ontario, who shares what tipping looks like from the front lines of the service industry. 

Dr. Cortney Norris brings us the service professional’s perspective, drawing on her review titled “50+ Years of Restaurant Tipping Research,” and what it reveals about power dynamics between customers and workers.

Dr. William Michael Lynn, author of The Psychology of Tipping, helps us unpack why we tip, even when service doesn’t meet expectations.

From real-life experiences to decades of research, let's take a closer look at what happens when the bill arrives.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Tipping Point: Why We Feel Pressured to Tip Everywhere Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Brody Robinson, Dr. Cortney Norris, Dr. William Michael Lynn 00:26:00 Tipping, it’s something many of us do without thinking. But what’s really behind this cultural norm? Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the psychological pressures and social expectations that shape how and why we tip. We hear from Brody Robinson, a server at the Singing Chef in London, Ontario, who shares what tipping looks like from the front lines of the service industry. Dr. Cortney Norris brings us the service professional’s perspective, drawing on her review titled “50+ Years of Restaurant Tipping Research,” and what it reveals about power dynamics between customers and workers. Dr. William Michael Lynn, author of The Psychology of Tipping, helps us unpack why we tip, even when service doesn’t meet expectations. From real-life experiences to decades of research, let's take a closer look at what happens when the bill arrives. Tipping, it’s something many of us do without thinking. But what’s really behind this cultural norm? Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the psychological pressures and social expectations that shape how and why we tip. We hear from Brody Robinson, a server at the Singing Chef in London, Ontario, who shares what tipping looks like from the front lines of the service industry. Dr. Cortney Norris brings us the service professional’s perspective, drawing on her review titled “50+ Years of Restaurant Tipping Research,” and what it reveals about power dynamics between customers and workers. Dr. William Michael Lynn, author of The Psychology of Tipping, helps us unpack why we tip, even when service doesn’t meet expectations. From real-life experiences to decades of research, let's take a closer look at what happens when the bill arrives. restaurant, gratuity, service, culture, money, bill, cultural, cafe false full 93 1 5c3643af-b6f8-417a-9005-0c4eabdecbf4 The Strength of the Ballot: Why Accessible Voting Matters Is inaccessible voting a direct violation of people’s rights? Is accessible voting the key to ensuring more citizens are engaged in their municipal, provincial, and federal politics? New Brunswickers are going to the polls to cast their votes on May 11, 2026, and Elections
New Brunswick is excited to share new accessibility features available for members of the community. Joeita Gupta explores these offerings and expands on the issue of accessible voting.

Chief Electoral Office Kim Poffenroth joins Joeita to explain the accessibility measures available for citizens in New Brunswick.
Sarah Blahovec is a Disability Civic Engagement Expert based in Virginia and offers her perspective on how accessible voting measures are essential to the premise of democracy and ensures access to civil engagement. Jeff Overmars from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission joins Joeita to talk about how accessible voting is critical to the disability community’s voice being heard.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 9 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Kim Poffenroth, Sarah Blahovec, Jeff Overmars) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-strength-of-the-ballot-why-accessible-voting-matters-0kMOu7mY Is inaccessible voting a direct violation of people’s rights? Is accessible voting the key to ensuring more citizens are engaged in their municipal, provincial, and federal politics? New Brunswickers are going to the polls to cast their votes on May 11, 2026, and Elections
New Brunswick is excited to share new accessibility features available for members of the community. Joeita Gupta explores these offerings and expands on the issue of accessible voting.

Chief Electoral Office Kim Poffenroth joins Joeita to explain the accessibility measures available for citizens in New Brunswick.
Sarah Blahovec is a Disability Civic Engagement Expert based in Virginia and offers her perspective on how accessible voting measures are essential to the premise of democracy and ensures access to civil engagement. Jeff Overmars from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission joins Joeita to talk about how accessible voting is critical to the disability community’s voice being heard.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Strength of the Ballot: Why Accessible Voting Matters Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Kim Poffenroth, Sarah Blahovec, Jeff Overmars 00:29:00 Is inaccessible voting a direct violation of people’s rights? Is accessible voting the key to ensuring more citizens are engaged in their municipal, provincial, and federal politics? New Brunswickers are going to the polls to cast their votes on May 11, 2026, and Elections New Brunswick is excited to share new accessibility features available for members of the community. Joeita Gupta explores these offerings and expands on the issue of accessible voting. Chief Electoral Office Kim Poffenroth joins Joeita to explain the accessibility measures available for citizens in New Brunswick. Sarah Blahovec is a Disability Civic Engagement Expert based in Virginia and offers her perspective on how accessible voting measures are essential to the premise of democracy and ensures access to civil engagement. Jeff Overmars from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission joins Joeita to talk about how accessible voting is critical to the disability community’s voice being heard. Is inaccessible voting a direct violation of people’s rights? Is accessible voting the key to ensuring more citizens are engaged in their municipal, provincial, and federal politics? New Brunswickers are going to the polls to cast their votes on May 11, 2026, and Elections New Brunswick is excited to share new accessibility features available for members of the community. Joeita Gupta explores these offerings and expands on the issue of accessible voting. Chief Electoral Office Kim Poffenroth joins Joeita to explain the accessibility measures available for citizens in New Brunswick. Sarah Blahovec is a Disability Civic Engagement Expert based in Virginia and offers her perspective on how accessible voting measures are essential to the premise of democracy and ensures access to civil engagement. Jeff Overmars from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission joins Joeita to talk about how accessible voting is critical to the disability community’s voice being heard. parliament, representation, cabinet, civic, provincial, municipal, democracy, federal, government, election, elected, elections false full 92 1 519bc642-46a6-4f46-ad4a-fa552b6f4680 Accessible Language Learning: From Grammar to Culture Whether you’re a student, professional, or you just love languages, come along on this multilingual journey. Grant Hardy hears from hobbyists and pros alike as we tackle language learning from an accessibility perspective.

Youssef Mohammad is a Professional Conference and Community Arabic-English interpreter. He discusses his bilingual experiences both at a school for the blind and in mainstream education.

Carolyn Cresswell is an Instructor at the W. Ross School for the Blind in Brantford, Ontario. She shares her experiences teaching English to newcomers to Canada.

Ariana Noughira is passionate about language learning; we learn how she’s picked up languages like Japanese and Russian on her own.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 8 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan, Jacob Shymanski, Youssef Mohammad, Carolyn Cresswell, Ariana Noughira) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/accessible-language-learning-from-grammar-to-culture-dvUtCcr1 Whether you’re a student, professional, or you just love languages, come along on this multilingual journey. Grant Hardy hears from hobbyists and pros alike as we tackle language learning from an accessibility perspective.

Youssef Mohammad is a Professional Conference and Community Arabic-English interpreter. He discusses his bilingual experiences both at a school for the blind and in mainstream education.

Carolyn Cresswell is an Instructor at the W. Ross School for the Blind in Brantford, Ontario. She shares her experiences teaching English to newcomers to Canada.

Ariana Noughira is passionate about language learning; we learn how she’s picked up languages like Japanese and Russian on her own.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Accessible Language Learning: From Grammar to Culture Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan, Jacob Shymanski, Youssef Mohammad, Carolyn Cresswell, Ariana Noughira 00:27:52 Whether you’re a student, professional, or you just love languages, come along on this multilingual journey. Grant Hardy hears from hobbyists and pros alike as we tackle language learning from an accessibility perspective. Youssef Mohammad is a Professional Conference and Community Arabic-English interpreter. He discusses his bilingual experiences both at a school for the blind and in mainstream education. Carolyn Cresswell is an Instructor at the W. Ross School for the Blind in Brantford, Ontario. She shares her experiences teaching English to newcomers to Canada. Ariana Noughira is passionate about language learning; we learn how she’s picked up languages like Japanese and Russian on her own. Whether you’re a student, professional, or you just love languages, come along on this multilingual journey. Grant Hardy hears from hobbyists and pros alike as we tackle language learning from an accessibility perspective. Youssef Mohammad is a Professional Conference and Community Arabic-English interpreter. He discusses his bilingual experiences both at a school for the blind and in mainstream education. Carolyn Cresswell is an Instructor at the W. Ross School for the Blind in Brantford, Ontario. She shares her experiences teaching English to newcomers to Canada. Ariana Noughira is passionate about language learning; we learn how she’s picked up languages like Japanese and Russian on her own. polyglot, rosetta stone, bilingual, duolingo, linguist, multilingual, languages, translator, dialect, translation false full 91 1 6fbbc189-97fc-455b-9155-71d524aebd70 Connecting Communities: The Broadening of Connect4Life There are many ways to find your community.  Sometimes, you find community through shared interest or proximity, like school or your neighbourhood gym.  Other communities are carefully and thoughtfully put together by connecting passionate people.  

In this episode, Kelly MacDonald highlights one of those passionate, expanding communities.  

For the last 12 years, Connect4Life, has been offering training programs for persons with disabilities in Canada.  The organization is now expanding its programming into South Africa.  Sharing knowledge and experience with like-minded people. 

Melanie Taddeo, President and CEO of Connect4Life, tells Kelly about the history of Connect4Life and its expansion into South Africa.

Mr. Tap is a disability advocate in South Africa, and runs Skills Village Radio, a station creating programming for and with persons with disabilities.

Kelly also speaks to Steven Christianson, a Connect4Life board member who was instrumental in the global expansion of the organization.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 2 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Jacob Shymanski, Melanie Taddeo, Mr. Tap, Steven Christianson) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/connecting-communities-the-broadening-of-connect4life-InSTCrxQ There are many ways to find your community.  Sometimes, you find community through shared interest or proximity, like school or your neighbourhood gym.  Other communities are carefully and thoughtfully put together by connecting passionate people.  

In this episode, Kelly MacDonald highlights one of those passionate, expanding communities.  

For the last 12 years, Connect4Life, has been offering training programs for persons with disabilities in Canada.  The organization is now expanding its programming into South Africa.  Sharing knowledge and experience with like-minded people. 

Melanie Taddeo, President and CEO of Connect4Life, tells Kelly about the history of Connect4Life and its expansion into South Africa.

Mr. Tap is a disability advocate in South Africa, and runs Skills Village Radio, a station creating programming for and with persons with disabilities.

Kelly also speaks to Steven Christianson, a Connect4Life board member who was instrumental in the global expansion of the organization.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Connecting Communities: The Broadening of Connect4Life Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Jacob Shymanski, Melanie Taddeo, Mr. Tap, Steven Christianson 00:29:00 There are many ways to find your community. Sometimes, you find community through shared interest or proximity, like school or your neighbourhood gym. Other communities are carefully and thoughtfully put together by connecting passionate people. In this episode, Kelly MacDonald highlights one of those passionate, expanding communities. For the last 12 years, Connect4Life, has been offering training programs for persons with disabilities in Canada. The organization is now expanding its programming into South Africa. Sharing knowledge and experience with like-minded people. Melanie Taddeo, President and CEO of Connect4Life, tells Kelly about the history of Connect4Life and its expansion into South Africa. Mr. Tap is a disability advocate in South Africa, and runs Skills Village Radio, a station creating programming for and with persons with disabilities. Kelly also speaks to Steven Christianson, a Connect4Life board member who was instrumental in the global expansion of the organization. There are many ways to find your community. Sometimes, you find community through shared interest or proximity, like school or your neighbourhood gym. Other communities are carefully and thoughtfully put together by connecting passionate people. In this episode, Kelly MacDonald highlights one of those passionate, expanding communities. For the last 12 years, Connect4Life, has been offering training programs for persons with disabilities in Canada. The organization is now expanding its programming into South Africa. Sharing knowledge and experience with like-minded people. Melanie Taddeo, President and CEO of Connect4Life, tells Kelly about the history of Connect4Life and its expansion into South Africa. Mr. Tap is a disability advocate in South Africa, and runs Skills Village Radio, a station creating programming for and with persons with disabilities. Kelly also speaks to Steven Christianson, a Connect4Life board member who was instrumental in the global expansion of the organization. connect 4 life, connect for life, international, training, audio, accessibility, radio, un false full 90 1 f7f33be5-edbd-45c2-ade3-a88ff8726d98 Access in Families: When Accessibility Becomes About Belonging We talk a lot about accessibility in public spaces, but some of the hardest conversations don’t happen there. They happen in private, with family and friends. And unfortunately, they happen in the spaces that we are supposed to feel the safest.

In this episode, Beth Deer along with her two guests, Disability Inclusion Expert Bean Gill and Registered Clinical Counsellor Dan Spring, unpack what happens when accessibility becomes negotiable with family and friends. Dan and Bean offer their perspectives on how quickly our family and friends’ boundaries can turn into something deeper and make us feel like we don’t belong. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 1 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Beth Deer, Jacob Shymanski, Bean Gill, Dan Spring) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/access-in-families-when-accessibility-becomes-about-belonging-gqOqcV55 We talk a lot about accessibility in public spaces, but some of the hardest conversations don’t happen there. They happen in private, with family and friends. And unfortunately, they happen in the spaces that we are supposed to feel the safest.

In this episode, Beth Deer along with her two guests, Disability Inclusion Expert Bean Gill and Registered Clinical Counsellor Dan Spring, unpack what happens when accessibility becomes negotiable with family and friends. Dan and Bean offer their perspectives on how quickly our family and friends’ boundaries can turn into something deeper and make us feel like we don’t belong. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Access in Families: When Accessibility Becomes About Belonging Beth Deer, Jacob Shymanski, Bean Gill, Dan Spring 00:22:45 We talk a lot about accessibility in public spaces, but some of the hardest conversations don’t happen there. They happen in private, with family and friends. And unfortunately, they happen in the spaces that we are supposed to feel the safest. In this episode, Beth Deer along with her two guests, Disability Inclusion Expert Bean Gill and Registered Clinical Counsellor Dan Spring, unpack what happens when accessibility becomes negotiable with family and friends. Dan and Bean offer their perspectives on how quickly our family and friends’ boundaries can turn into something deeper and make us feel like we don’t belong. We talk a lot about accessibility in public spaces, but some of the hardest conversations don’t happen there. They happen in private, with family and friends. And unfortunately, they happen in the spaces that we are supposed to feel the safest. In this episode, Beth Deer along with her two guests, Disability Inclusion Expert Bean Gill and Registered Clinical Counsellor Dan Spring, unpack what happens when accessibility becomes negotiable with family and friends. Dan and Bean offer their perspectives on how quickly our family and friends’ boundaries can turn into something deeper and make us feel like we don’t belong. inclusion, accessible spaces, access, refusal of access, belonging, ableism false full 89 1 a85ecbe4-345a-48c6-aa3b-f4ae30310ce2 Reclaiming Adventure: Lynn Jensen's Travel Story Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into Lynn Jensen’s journey of losing her sight and finding her way back to the world through travel.

After sudden vision loss at 27, Lynn faced the emotional and practical realities of starting over, learning new ways to navigate, rebuilding confidence, and making the life-changing decision to work with a guide dog she never wanted.

Through conversations with Lynn and her rehabilitation specialist, Rochelle De Vries, we explore what sudden vision loss can feel like, the challenges of mobility training, and how instructors support people as they regain independence.

We also hear from Lynn’s twin sister, whose perspective offers an intimate look at their bond and what it meant to witness such a profound life shift up close.

This is a story about reclaiming a sense of adventure on your own terms.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Lynn Jensen, Rochelle De Vries, Laura Jensen) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/reclaiming-adventure-lynn-jensens-travel-story-Lyj2QRph Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into Lynn Jensen’s journey of losing her sight and finding her way back to the world through travel.

After sudden vision loss at 27, Lynn faced the emotional and practical realities of starting over, learning new ways to navigate, rebuilding confidence, and making the life-changing decision to work with a guide dog she never wanted.

Through conversations with Lynn and her rehabilitation specialist, Rochelle De Vries, we explore what sudden vision loss can feel like, the challenges of mobility training, and how instructors support people as they regain independence.

We also hear from Lynn’s twin sister, whose perspective offers an intimate look at their bond and what it meant to witness such a profound life shift up close.

This is a story about reclaiming a sense of adventure on your own terms.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Reclaiming Adventure: Lynn Jensen's Travel Story Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Lynn Jensen, Rochelle De Vries, Laura Jensen 00:27:59 Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into Lynn Jensen’s journey of losing her sight and finding her way back to the world through travel. After sudden vision loss at 27, Lynn faced the emotional and practical realities of starting over, learning new ways to navigate, rebuilding confidence, and making the life-changing decision to work with a guide dog she never wanted. Through conversations with Lynn and her rehabilitation specialist, Rochelle De Vries, we explore what sudden vision loss can feel like, the challenges of mobility training, and how instructors support people as they regain independence. We also hear from Lynn’s twin sister, whose perspective offers an intimate look at their bond and what it meant to witness such a profound life shift up close. This is a story about reclaiming a sense of adventure on your own terms. Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into Lynn Jensen’s journey of losing her sight and finding her way back to the world through travel. After sudden vision loss at 27, Lynn faced the emotional and practical realities of starting over, learning new ways to navigate, rebuilding confidence, and making the life-changing decision to work with a guide dog she never wanted. Through conversations with Lynn and her rehabilitation specialist, Rochelle De Vries, we explore what sudden vision loss can feel like, the challenges of mobility training, and how instructors support people as they regain independence. We also hear from Lynn’s twin sister, whose perspective offers an intimate look at their bond and what it meant to witness such a profound life shift up close. This is a story about reclaiming a sense of adventure on your own terms. travel, vision loss, accessible travel, journey, autobiographical, autobiography, guide dog false full 88 1 c4c25773-4f84-45ab-90ee-0aba7a1cc537 From Three Voices: Why Disabled Black History Matters How does our history of segregation and discrimination towards minority communities impact the way social justice movements and disability rights organizations operate?

Joeita Gupta speaks with three individuals from the Black disability community to learn more about how conversations about race and disability are interconnected.

Dr. Sami Schalk, Professor of Gender & Women’s Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains Black disability politics and shares how the erasure of Black disabled history impacts conversations around disability rights.

Scholar and activist Dr. Syrus Marcus Ware discusses the history of the Black Panther Party and tells us how social justice movements across Canada are organized.

Disability rights activist Gift Tshuma examines how race and disability cause attitudinal barriers in the workplace, dissecting how facing these barriers allowed Gift to create their own opportunities.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Dr. Sami Schalk, Dr. Syrus Marcus, Gift Tshuma) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/from-three-voices-why-disabled-black-history-matters-aieRlJ3t How does our history of segregation and discrimination towards minority communities impact the way social justice movements and disability rights organizations operate?

Joeita Gupta speaks with three individuals from the Black disability community to learn more about how conversations about race and disability are interconnected.

Dr. Sami Schalk, Professor of Gender & Women’s Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains Black disability politics and shares how the erasure of Black disabled history impacts conversations around disability rights.

Scholar and activist Dr. Syrus Marcus Ware discusses the history of the Black Panther Party and tells us how social justice movements across Canada are organized.

Disability rights activist Gift Tshuma examines how race and disability cause attitudinal barriers in the workplace, dissecting how facing these barriers allowed Gift to create their own opportunities.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> From Three Voices: Why Disabled Black History Matters Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Dr. Sami Schalk, Dr. Syrus Marcus, Gift Tshuma 00:29:00 How does our history of segregation and discrimination towards minority communities impact the way social justice movements and disability rights organizations operate? Joeita Gupta speaks with three individuals from the Black disability community to learn more about how conversations about race and disability are interconnected. Dr. Sami Schalk, Professor of Gender & Women’s Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains Black disability politics and shares how the erasure of Black disabled history impacts conversations around disability rights. Scholar and activist Dr. Syrus Marcus Ware discusses the history of the Black Panther Party and tells us how social justice movements across Canada are organized. Disability rights activist Gift Tshuma examines how race and disability cause attitudinal barriers in the workplace, dissecting how facing these barriers allowed Gift to create their own opportunities. How does our history of segregation and discrimination towards minority communities impact the way social justice movements and disability rights organizations operate? Joeita Gupta speaks with three individuals from the Black disability community to learn more about how conversations about race and disability are interconnected. Dr. Sami Schalk, Professor of Gender & Women’s Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains Black disability politics and shares how the erasure of Black disabled history impacts conversations around disability rights. Scholar and activist Dr. Syrus Marcus Ware discusses the history of the Black Panther Party and tells us how social justice movements across Canada are organized. Disability rights activist Gift Tshuma examines how race and disability cause attitudinal barriers in the workplace, dissecting how facing these barriers allowed Gift to create their own opportunities. disability rights, equality, black history, racism, black lives matter, race, ableism false full 87 1 d0993792-e8fe-40f6-966f-cf0cbcf431b6 Beyond Pictures: Describing Videos with AI How does AI continue to help blind people interpret the visual world?

Grant Hardy learns about a new accessibility tool called ViddyScribe. He talks to Developer and Co Founder Aaditya Vaze, a Graduate of OCAD University's Digital Futures Program, and CEO and Co Founder Patrick Burton, about this app that uses AI to make video content accessible for blind and low vision users.

We hear from Dr. Alexis Morris, Associate Professor at OCAD U’s Digital Futures Program, about the evolution of AI more broadly. We also hear from AMI-audio's Jacob Shymanski about how AI powered apps are changing the accessibility landscape

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/beyond-pictures-describing-videos-with-ai-0aqbGXmV How does AI continue to help blind people interpret the visual world?

Grant Hardy learns about a new accessibility tool called ViddyScribe. He talks to Developer and Co Founder Aaditya Vaze, a Graduate of OCAD University's Digital Futures Program, and CEO and Co Founder Patrick Burton, about this app that uses AI to make video content accessible for blind and low vision users.

We hear from Dr. Alexis Morris, Associate Professor at OCAD U’s Digital Futures Program, about the evolution of AI more broadly. We also hear from AMI-audio's Jacob Shymanski about how AI powered apps are changing the accessibility landscape

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Beyond Pictures: Describing Videos with AI AMI 00:24:00 false full 86 1 d8627725-9949-4793-ad91-8bb5dcf79edc Fencing for All: Sparring at Tim's Fencing Academy Kelly MacDonald highlights Tim's Fencing Academy in Toronto, a space and program that started building safety, recreation, and community since the moment it opened its doors.

Founder and Coach Tim Svidnytskiy reflects on his journey into Canada from The Ukraine, taking his passion for fencing with him into this new world, and cultivating this space for anyone willing to try it out with him.

Hooley McLaughlin, a life-long student and adventurer, shares his story of picking up fencing well into his retirement years, and enjoying the heck out of the activity!

Coach Viktor Melnyk, a younger Instructor at the academy, tells us how he learned to embrace a new language, a new life, and a whole lot of new people through the art of fencing.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Tim Svidnytskiy, Hooley McLaughlin, Viktor Melnyk) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/fencing-for-all-sparring-at-tims-fencing-academy-xF_R8S5j Kelly MacDonald highlights Tim's Fencing Academy in Toronto, a space and program that started building safety, recreation, and community since the moment it opened its doors.

Founder and Coach Tim Svidnytskiy reflects on his journey into Canada from The Ukraine, taking his passion for fencing with him into this new world, and cultivating this space for anyone willing to try it out with him.

Hooley McLaughlin, a life-long student and adventurer, shares his story of picking up fencing well into his retirement years, and enjoying the heck out of the activity!

Coach Viktor Melnyk, a younger Instructor at the academy, tells us how he learned to embrace a new language, a new life, and a whole lot of new people through the art of fencing.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fencing for All: Sparring at Tim's Fencing Academy Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Tim Svidnytskiy, Hooley McLaughlin, Viktor Melnyk 00:26:50 Kelly MacDonald highlights Tim's Fencing Academy in Toronto, a space and program that started building safety, recreation, and community since the moment it opened its doors. Founder and Coach Tim Svidnytskiy reflects on his journey into Canada from The Ukraine, taking his passion for fencing with him into this new world, and cultivating this space for anyone willing to try it out with him. Hooley McLaughlin, a life-long student and adventurer, shares his story of picking up fencing well into his retirement years, and enjoying the heck out of the activity! Coach Viktor Melnyk, a younger Instructor at the academy, tells us how he learned to embrace a new language, a new life, and a whole lot of new people through the art of fencing. Kelly MacDonald highlights Tim's Fencing Academy in Toronto, a space and program that started building safety, recreation, and community since the moment it opened its doors. Founder and Coach Tim Svidnytskiy reflects on his journey into Canada from The Ukraine, taking his passion for fencing with him into this new world, and cultivating this space for anyone willing to try it out with him. Hooley McLaughlin, a life-long student and adventurer, shares his story of picking up fencing well into his retirement years, and enjoying the heck out of the activity! Coach Viktor Melnyk, a younger Instructor at the academy, tells us how he learned to embrace a new language, a new life, and a whole lot of new people through the art of fencing. sport, inclusion, fitness, activity, athletics, club, competition, group false full 85 1 63865386-ac5a-4cb8-8159-eb6af5e64469 White Lies: Pulling Apart the Social Glue of our Little Deceits From sparing someone’s feelings to smoothing over awkward social moments, most of us tell white lies more often than we confess to.

Are these little lies harmless or is honesty really the best policy? Nisreen Abdel-Majid unpacks the psychology behind white lies.

Clinical Counsellor Dillon Lewchuk explains why we all feel compelled to bend the truth and offers us empathy to help us sit with these social choices.

Jim Krysko shares his humble opinions as a parent; when he believes honesty matters, and when a small white lie is more appropriate for the situation.

We hear white lie confessions from friends and colleagues, as well as their justifications behind those very human moments.

Sometimes the truth is simple… Sometimes it’s complicated.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Dillon Lewchuk, Jim Krysko) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/white-lies-pulling-apart-the-social-glue-of-our-little-deceits-RHtJa8Hd From sparing someone’s feelings to smoothing over awkward social moments, most of us tell white lies more often than we confess to.

Are these little lies harmless or is honesty really the best policy? Nisreen Abdel-Majid unpacks the psychology behind white lies.

Clinical Counsellor Dillon Lewchuk explains why we all feel compelled to bend the truth and offers us empathy to help us sit with these social choices.

Jim Krysko shares his humble opinions as a parent; when he believes honesty matters, and when a small white lie is more appropriate for the situation.

We hear white lie confessions from friends and colleagues, as well as their justifications behind those very human moments.

Sometimes the truth is simple… Sometimes it’s complicated.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> White Lies: Pulling Apart the Social Glue of our Little Deceits Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Dillon Lewchuk, Jim Krysko 00:24:30 From sparing someone’s feelings to smoothing over awkward social moments, most of us tell white lies more often than we confess to. Are these little lies harmless or is honesty really the best policy? Nisreen Abdel-Majid unpacks the psychology behind white lies. Clinical Counsellor Dillon Lewchuk explains why we all feel compelled to bend the truth and offers us empathy to help us sit with these social choices. Jim Krysko shares his humble opinions as a parent; when he believes honesty matters, and when a small white lie is more appropriate for the situation. We hear white lie confessions from friends and colleagues, as well as their justifications behind those very human moments. Sometimes the truth is simple… Sometimes it’s complicated. From sparing someone’s feelings to smoothing over awkward social moments, most of us tell white lies more often than we confess to. Are these little lies harmless or is honesty really the best policy? Nisreen Abdel-Majid unpacks the psychology behind white lies. Clinical Counsellor Dillon Lewchuk explains why we all feel compelled to bend the truth and offers us empathy to help us sit with these social choices. Jim Krysko shares his humble opinions as a parent; when he believes honesty matters, and when a small white lie is more appropriate for the situation. We hear white lie confessions from friends and colleagues, as well as their justifications behind those very human moments. Sometimes the truth is simple… Sometimes it’s complicated. honesty, false, lying, fabricated, relationships, truth, fib, social norm false full 84 1 88a5ac17-5ff2-4bab-8b16-243af2ee3917 Reflecting on the Death of People with Disabilities: Disability Day of Mourning Around the World Every year on March 1st, we observe Disability Day of Mourning to memorialize and honour victims of filicide around the world. 

Zoe Gross began Disability Day of Mourning back in 2012, and Joeita Gupta invited her to speak about the importance of this day.

Zoe shares how systemic ableism, media bias, and attitudinal barriers have skewed the way the stories of these filicide victims are told. 

Dax created the Disability Day of Mourning Memorial website. We hear their perspective on the impact this research has and why they’re continually driven to do this work.

Visit the memorial website here: Disability Day of Mourning – Remembering the Disabled Murdered by Caregivers

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Zoe Gross, Dax) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/reflecting-on-the-death-of-people-with-disabilities-disability-day-of-mourning-around-the-world-AqVHzrIm Every year on March 1st, we observe Disability Day of Mourning to memorialize and honour victims of filicide around the world. 

Zoe Gross began Disability Day of Mourning back in 2012, and Joeita Gupta invited her to speak about the importance of this day.

Zoe shares how systemic ableism, media bias, and attitudinal barriers have skewed the way the stories of these filicide victims are told. 

Dax created the Disability Day of Mourning Memorial website. We hear their perspective on the impact this research has and why they’re continually driven to do this work.

Visit the memorial website here: Disability Day of Mourning – Remembering the Disabled Murdered by Caregivers

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Reflecting on the Death of People with Disabilities: Disability Day of Mourning Around the World Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Zoe Gross, Dax 00:30:00 Every year on March 1st, we observe Disability Day of Mourning to memorialize and honour victims of filicide around the world. Zoe Gross began Disability Day of Mourning back in 2012, and Joeita Gupta invited her to speak about the importance of this day. Zoe shares how systemic ableism, media bias, and attitudinal barriers have skewed the way the stories of these filicide victims are told. Dax created the Disability Day of Mourning Memorial website. We hear their perspective on the impact this research has and why they’re continually driven to do this work. Visit the memorial website here: Disability Day of Mourning – Remembering the Disabled Murdered by Caregivers Every year on March 1st, we observe Disability Day of Mourning to memorialize and honour victims of filicide around the world. Zoe Gross began Disability Day of Mourning back in 2012, and Joeita Gupta invited her to speak about the importance of this day. Zoe shares how systemic ableism, media bias, and attitudinal barriers have skewed the way the stories of these filicide victims are told. Dax created the Disability Day of Mourning Memorial website. We hear their perspective on the impact this research has and why they’re continually driven to do this work. Visit the memorial website here: Disability Day of Mourning – Remembering the Disabled Murdered by Caregivers legal, homicide, murder, caregiver, death, family, law, filicide, ableism, justice false full 83 1 bb914bbe-ab79-4491-9aa2-d2abf519ffdc Welcoming Everybody: How to Make Indoor Spaces Work Better for Customers with Disabilities Why don't indoor spaces always work as well as they should, and what can be done to make them work better?

Grant Hardy consults with a group of experts and changemakers on how we can make indoor spaces more accessible.

Grant opens things up with legally blind consumer, Stephen Ricci about some of the challenges he experiences navigating indoor spaces.

He speaks to Maayan Ziv, Founder and CEO of AccessNow and Matthew Shaw, Head of Accessibility Practice and Innovation at the Rick Hansen Foundation to hear how we can tackle the physical and attitudinal barriers in our indoor spaces.

The Waterloo Regional Airport incorporated accessibility into a major property redesign. Operations Manager Tanya Herback shares what visitors can expect.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan, Stephen Ricci, Maayan Ziv, Matthew Shaw, Tanya Herback) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/welcoming-everybody-how-to-make-indoor-spaces-work-better-for-customers-with-disabilities-aLWP1924 Why don't indoor spaces always work as well as they should, and what can be done to make them work better?

Grant Hardy consults with a group of experts and changemakers on how we can make indoor spaces more accessible.

Grant opens things up with legally blind consumer, Stephen Ricci about some of the challenges he experiences navigating indoor spaces.

He speaks to Maayan Ziv, Founder and CEO of AccessNow and Matthew Shaw, Head of Accessibility Practice and Innovation at the Rick Hansen Foundation to hear how we can tackle the physical and attitudinal barriers in our indoor spaces.

The Waterloo Regional Airport incorporated accessibility into a major property redesign. Operations Manager Tanya Herback shares what visitors can expect.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Welcoming Everybody: How to Make Indoor Spaces Work Better for Customers with Disabilities Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan, Stephen Ricci, Maayan Ziv, Matthew Shaw, Tanya Herback 00:28:00 Why don't indoor spaces always work as well as they should, and what can be done to make them work better? Grant Hardy consults with a group of experts and changemakers on how we can make indoor spaces more accessible. Grant opens things up with legally blind consumer, Stephen Ricci about some of the challenges he experiences navigating indoor spaces. He speaks to Maayan Ziv, Founder and CEO of AccessNow and Matthew Shaw, Head of Accessibility Practice and Innovation at the Rick Hansen Foundation to hear how we can tackle the physical and attitudinal barriers in our indoor spaces. The Waterloo Regional Airport incorporated accessibility into a major property redesign. Operations Manager Tanya Herback shares what visitors can expect. Why don't indoor spaces always work as well as they should, and what can be done to make them work better? Grant Hardy consults with a group of experts and changemakers on how we can make indoor spaces more accessible. Grant opens things up with legally blind consumer, Stephen Ricci about some of the challenges he experiences navigating indoor spaces. He speaks to Maayan Ziv, Founder and CEO of AccessNow and Matthew Shaw, Head of Accessibility Practice and Innovation at the Rick Hansen Foundation to hear how we can tackle the physical and attitudinal barriers in our indoor spaces. The Waterloo Regional Airport incorporated accessibility into a major property redesign. Operations Manager Tanya Herback shares what visitors can expect. travel, accessible spaces, universal design, accessible travel, inclusive design, airline, accessibility, universal, public false full 82 1 ff3ec1c9-0c74-44c4-85c9-362a23bf95d9 The Story of Public Broadcasting in the United States: Brought to you by Maine Public, With a Disclaimer In the United States, public broadcasting is anchored by NPR, PBS and other household names, which are currently fighting significant battles to stay alive. Kelly MacDonald reached out to Maine Public, a state-wide broadcaster out of Maine, to learn more about the current media landscape, and public broadcasting's place within it.

Recent funding cuts to The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the entity which historically oversaw federal funding for public media, has led to the official dissolution of this organization.

What does this mean for Maine Public, and the picture of public broadcasting?

Through the voices of Maine Public's President and CEO, Rick Schneider, and Chief Programming Officer Susan Tran, we hear about community support, funding realities, systematic challenges, and the educational reputation behind public broadcasting.

Sprinkled through the show are the voices of Bill Burgess, Melissa LaCasse, and Mark Jablonowski with their testimonials in favour of the fight to keep public broadcasting alive.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Rick Schneider, Susan Tran, Bill Burgess, Melissa LaCasse, Mark Jablonowski) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-story-of-public-broadcasting-in-the-united-states-brought-to-you-by-maine-public-with-a-disclaimer-lTjDEawC In the United States, public broadcasting is anchored by NPR, PBS and other household names, which are currently fighting significant battles to stay alive. Kelly MacDonald reached out to Maine Public, a state-wide broadcaster out of Maine, to learn more about the current media landscape, and public broadcasting's place within it.

Recent funding cuts to The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the entity which historically oversaw federal funding for public media, has led to the official dissolution of this organization.

What does this mean for Maine Public, and the picture of public broadcasting?

Through the voices of Maine Public's President and CEO, Rick Schneider, and Chief Programming Officer Susan Tran, we hear about community support, funding realities, systematic challenges, and the educational reputation behind public broadcasting.

Sprinkled through the show are the voices of Bill Burgess, Melissa LaCasse, and Mark Jablonowski with their testimonials in favour of the fight to keep public broadcasting alive.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Story of Public Broadcasting in the United States: Brought to you by Maine Public, With a Disclaimer Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Rick Schneider, Susan Tran, Bill Burgess, Melissa LaCasse, Mark Jablonowski 00:28:00 In the United States, public broadcasting is anchored by NPR, PBS and other household names, which are currently fighting significant battles to stay alive. Kelly MacDonald reached out to Maine Public, a state-wide broadcaster out of Maine, to learn more about the current media landscape, and public broadcasting's place within it. Recent funding cuts to The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the entity which historically oversaw federal funding for public media, has led to the official dissolution of this organization. What does this mean for Maine Public, and the picture of public broadcasting? Through the voices of Maine Public's President and CEO, Rick Schneider, and Chief Programming Officer Susan Tran, we hear about community support, funding realities, systematic challenges, and the educational reputation behind public broadcasting. Sprinkled through the show are the voices of Bill Burgess, Melissa LaCasse, and Mark Jablonowski with their testimonials in favour of the fight to keep public broadcasting alive. In the United States, public broadcasting is anchored by NPR, PBS and other household names, which are currently fighting significant battles to stay alive. Kelly MacDonald reached out to Maine Public, a state-wide broadcaster out of Maine, to learn more about the current media landscape, and public broadcasting's place within it. Recent funding cuts to The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the entity which historically oversaw federal funding for public media, has led to the official dissolution of this organization. What does this mean for Maine Public, and the picture of public broadcasting? Through the voices of Maine Public's President and CEO, Rick Schneider, and Chief Programming Officer Susan Tran, we hear about community support, funding realities, systematic challenges, and the educational reputation behind public broadcasting. Sprinkled through the show are the voices of Bill Burgess, Melissa LaCasse, and Mark Jablonowski with their testimonials in favour of the fight to keep public broadcasting alive. newspaper, coverage, budget cuts, tv, policy, government, budget, television, local news, print media false full 81 1 d3747ae5-83fd-4ff5-9861-6f6915d882c3 Learning New Kitchen Skills: Tips for the Blind Home Cook For some, cooking is about survival and nourishment. For others, it’s an adventure, challenge, hobby, and a source of joy. Either way, getting started in the kitchen with new recipes, tools, and appliances can be tricky and overwhelming. Joeita Gupta is admittedly not the most enthusiastic to be in the kitchen, but she wanted to explore some of the best tips and tricks for the blind home cook so everyone can feel included in this daily accomplishment. 

Greg Pickios is an Adapted Living Skill Specialist for Balance for Blind Adults, and he shares some of the basic tools and skills that he teaches his clients. 

Michelle McQuigge, CEO of Balance for Blind Adults, loves to cook and is largely self-taught. She lets us in on some of her favourite tips from the kitchen that she’s learned over the years. 

And Christine Ha, the winner of Master Chef Season 3 and restauranteur, is sharing the ways she keeps her kitchens running smoothly, efficiently, and accessibly.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Greg Pickios, Michelle McQuigge, Christine Ha) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/learning-new-kitchen-skills-tips-for-the-blind-home-cook-dMJP08YY For some, cooking is about survival and nourishment. For others, it’s an adventure, challenge, hobby, and a source of joy. Either way, getting started in the kitchen with new recipes, tools, and appliances can be tricky and overwhelming. Joeita Gupta is admittedly not the most enthusiastic to be in the kitchen, but she wanted to explore some of the best tips and tricks for the blind home cook so everyone can feel included in this daily accomplishment. 

Greg Pickios is an Adapted Living Skill Specialist for Balance for Blind Adults, and he shares some of the basic tools and skills that he teaches his clients. 

Michelle McQuigge, CEO of Balance for Blind Adults, loves to cook and is largely self-taught. She lets us in on some of her favourite tips from the kitchen that she’s learned over the years. 

And Christine Ha, the winner of Master Chef Season 3 and restauranteur, is sharing the ways she keeps her kitchens running smoothly, efficiently, and accessibly.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Learning New Kitchen Skills: Tips for the Blind Home Cook Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Greg Pickios, Michelle McQuigge, Christine Ha 00:28:00 For some, cooking is about survival and nourishment. For others, it’s an adventure, challenge, hobby, and a source of joy. Either way, getting started in the kitchen with new recipes, tools, and appliances can be tricky and overwhelming. Joeita Gupta is admittedly not the most enthusiastic to be in the kitchen, but she wanted to explore some of the best tips and tricks for the blind home cook so everyone can feel included in this daily accomplishment. Greg Pickios is an Adapted Living Skill Specialist for Balance for Blind Adults, and he shares some of the basic tools and skills that he teaches his clients. Michelle McQuigge, CEO of Balance for Blind Adults, loves to cook and is largely self-taught. She lets us in on some of her favourite tips from the kitchen that she’s learned over the years. And Christine Ha, the winner of Master Chef Season 3 and restauranteur, is sharing the ways she keeps her kitchens running smoothly, efficiently, and accessibly. For some, cooking is about survival and nourishment. For others, it’s an adventure, challenge, hobby, and a source of joy. Either way, getting started in the kitchen with new recipes, tools, and appliances can be tricky and overwhelming. Joeita Gupta is admittedly not the most enthusiastic to be in the kitchen, but she wanted to explore some of the best tips and tricks for the blind home cook so everyone can feel included in this daily accomplishment. Greg Pickios is an Adapted Living Skill Specialist for Balance for Blind Adults, and he shares some of the basic tools and skills that he teaches his clients. Michelle McQuigge, CEO of Balance for Blind Adults, loves to cook and is largely self-taught. She lets us in on some of her favourite tips from the kitchen that she’s learned over the years. And Christine Ha, the winner of Master Chef Season 3 and restauranteur, is sharing the ways she keeps her kitchens running smoothly, efficiently, and accessibly. safety, tips and tricks, nutrition, cook, chef, recipes, food, adaptive, cooking false full 80 1 6ba6bbff-47c1-4852-b1e5-7a6aeb5d3589 When Fear Crosses the Border: Deportation Protests and the Illusion of Safety in Canada Nisreen Abdel-Majid understands that fear doesn’t stop at a border, it travels through headlines, protests, and deeply personal moments. It did for her and her sister, which you'll hear about through this story.

As conversations around immigration enforcement and mass deportation intensify in the United States, Nisreen reflects on a moment in downtown Toronto when she and her sister were confronted by protesters asking for the same in Canada.

She’s joined by Rabia Khedr, National Director of Disability Without Poverty, who shares her perspective on how fear-driven narratives impact marginalized communities.

Ronald Sanchez, who is blind and lives in Chicago, speaks about the anxiety and uncertainty he felt as news of aggressive immigration enforcement unfolded in his city.

Julia Métraux, Reporter for Mother Jones, explains the specific realities of people living with disabilities through the political warfares of today's times, what there is to lose if we don't pay attention.

And Alia Abdel-Majid, Nisreen’s sister, recounts what it was like walking through that charged moment in Toronto.

Nisreen and her guests unravel how fear moves across countries, across communities, and into our everyday lives.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 5 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Rabia Khedr, Ronald Sanchez, Julia Métraux, Alia Abdel-Majid) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/when-fear-crosses-the-border-deportation-protests-and-the-illusion-of-safety-in-canada-bInxy0mm-41KfMPTF Nisreen Abdel-Majid understands that fear doesn’t stop at a border, it travels through headlines, protests, and deeply personal moments. It did for her and her sister, which you'll hear about through this story.

As conversations around immigration enforcement and mass deportation intensify in the United States, Nisreen reflects on a moment in downtown Toronto when she and her sister were confronted by protesters asking for the same in Canada.

She’s joined by Rabia Khedr, National Director of Disability Without Poverty, who shares her perspective on how fear-driven narratives impact marginalized communities.

Ronald Sanchez, who is blind and lives in Chicago, speaks about the anxiety and uncertainty he felt as news of aggressive immigration enforcement unfolded in his city.

Julia Métraux, Reporter for Mother Jones, explains the specific realities of people living with disabilities through the political warfares of today's times, what there is to lose if we don't pay attention.

And Alia Abdel-Majid, Nisreen’s sister, recounts what it was like walking through that charged moment in Toronto.

Nisreen and her guests unravel how fear moves across countries, across communities, and into our everyday lives.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> When Fear Crosses the Border: Deportation Protests and the Illusion of Safety in Canada Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Rabia Khedr, Ronald Sanchez, Julia Métraux, Alia Abdel-Majid 00:27:47 Nisreen Abdel-Majid understands that fear doesn’t stop at a border, it travels through headlines, protests, and deeply personal moments. It did for her and her sister, which you'll hear about through this story. As conversations around immigration enforcement and mass deportation intensify in the United States, Nisreen reflects on a moment in downtown Toronto when she and her sister were confronted by protesters asking for the same in Canada. She’s joined by Rabia Khedr, National Director of Disability Without Poverty, who shares her perspective on how fear-driven narratives impact marginalized communities. Ronald Sanchez, who is blind and lives in Chicago, speaks about the anxiety and uncertainty he felt as news of aggressive immigration enforcement unfolded in his city. Julia Métraux, Reporter for Mother Jones, explains the specific realities of people living with disabilities through the political warfares of today's times, what there is to lose if we don't pay attention. And Alia Abdel-Majid, Nisreen’s sister, recounts what it was like walking through that charged moment in Toronto. Nisreen and her guests unravel how fear moves across countries, across communities, and into our everyday lives. Nisreen Abdel-Majid understands that fear doesn’t stop at a border, it travels through headlines, protests, and deeply personal moments. It did for her and her sister, which you'll hear about through this story. As conversations around immigration enforcement and mass deportation intensify in the United States, Nisreen reflects on a moment in downtown Toronto when she and her sister were confronted by protesters asking for the same in Canada. She’s joined by Rabia Khedr, National Director of Disability Without Poverty, who shares her perspective on how fear-driven narratives impact marginalized communities. Ronald Sanchez, who is blind and lives in Chicago, speaks about the anxiety and uncertainty he felt as news of aggressive immigration enforcement unfolded in his city. Julia Métraux, Reporter for Mother Jones, explains the specific realities of people living with disabilities through the political warfares of today's times, what there is to lose if we don't pay attention. And Alia Abdel-Majid, Nisreen’s sister, recounts what it was like walking through that charged moment in Toronto. Nisreen and her guests unravel how fear moves across countries, across communities, and into our everyday lives. safety, national, immigration, immigrant, racism, poc, politics, united states, protests, immigration control enforcement, citizen, usa, ethnicity, ice, person of colour, nationality false full 79 1 3125719f-94a8-48f3-a594-93161857897f Visual Eating: When This Food Looks Like [Expletive Deleted] Can blind and low vision people be visual eaters too? Kelly MacDonald explores how our senses come into play in building our appetites.

Food enthusiast Bill Oakley gives us a peek behind the curtains of how food is staged, presented, and plated to draw us in.

Terri-Lyn Dietrich, Lily Cereghini, and Brian Arthur share how unflattering descriptions from sighted guides affect their chances of trying a dish or enjoying it.

Blind mom Theresa Eaton tells us how she talked her sons into trying foods they visually judged on first glance.

And Chef Mary Mammoliti shares her long-time love for cooking, while Chef Julie gives her vivid take on why making calamari is as ugly as it is delicious.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Terri-Lyn Dietrich, Lily Cereghini, Brian Arthur, Theresa Eaton, Bill Oakley, Mary Mammoliti) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/visual-eating-when-this-food-looks-like-expletive-deleted-6DCJbtIi Can blind and low vision people be visual eaters too? Kelly MacDonald explores how our senses come into play in building our appetites.

Food enthusiast Bill Oakley gives us a peek behind the curtains of how food is staged, presented, and plated to draw us in.

Terri-Lyn Dietrich, Lily Cereghini, and Brian Arthur share how unflattering descriptions from sighted guides affect their chances of trying a dish or enjoying it.

Blind mom Theresa Eaton tells us how she talked her sons into trying foods they visually judged on first glance.

And Chef Mary Mammoliti shares her long-time love for cooking, while Chef Julie gives her vivid take on why making calamari is as ugly as it is delicious.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Visual Eating: When This Food Looks Like [Expletive Deleted] Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Terri-Lyn Dietrich, Lily Cereghini, Brian Arthur, Theresa Eaton, Bill Oakley, Mary Mammoliti 00:28:00 Can blind and low vision people be visual eaters too? Kelly MacDonald explores how our senses come into play in building our appetites. Food enthusiast Bill Oakley gives us a peek behind the curtains of how food is staged, presented, and plated to draw us in. Terri-Lyn Dietrich, Lily Cereghini, and Brian Arthur share how unflattering descriptions from sighted guides affect their chances of trying a dish or enjoying it. Blind mom Theresa Eaton tells us how she talked her sons into trying foods they visually judged on first glance. And Chef Mary Mammoliti shares her long-time love for cooking, while Chef Julie gives her vivid take on why making calamari is as ugly as it is delicious. Can blind and low vision people be visual eaters too? Kelly MacDonald explores how our senses come into play in building our appetites. Food enthusiast Bill Oakley gives us a peek behind the curtains of how food is staged, presented, and plated to draw us in. Terri-Lyn Dietrich, Lily Cereghini, and Brian Arthur share how unflattering descriptions from sighted guides affect their chances of trying a dish or enjoying it. Blind mom Theresa Eaton tells us how she talked her sons into trying foods they visually judged on first glance. And Chef Mary Mammoliti shares her long-time love for cooking, while Chef Julie gives her vivid take on why making calamari is as ugly as it is delicious. nutrition, cuisine, taste, cook, sight, eat, chef, eating, senses, food, visual, cooking, four senses false full 78 1 6c506c5a-8d98-4407-a702-7294454d1607 Finding a New Voice What happens when the life you built around your talent suddenly falls apart in front of thousands of people?

In this AMI-original, writer and performer Julia Bonnett reflects on the night her vision loss led her to walk off the stage mid-performance. What began as a humiliating moment became a turning point that forced her to confront the end of her opera career and re-imagine her way forward. Through music, research, and personal reflection, Julia examines why we get stuck in the first place, and brings us along as she figures out how to let go of the illusion that we're ever finished changing.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 3 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (julia bonnett, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/finding-a-new-voice-vpy9lCTc What happens when the life you built around your talent suddenly falls apart in front of thousands of people?

In this AMI-original, writer and performer Julia Bonnett reflects on the night her vision loss led her to walk off the stage mid-performance. What began as a humiliating moment became a turning point that forced her to confront the end of her opera career and re-imagine her way forward. Through music, research, and personal reflection, Julia examines why we get stuck in the first place, and brings us along as she figures out how to let go of the illusion that we're ever finished changing.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Finding a New Voice julia bonnett, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 What happens when the life you built around your talent suddenly falls apart in front of thousands of people? In this AMI-original, writer and performer Julia Bonnett reflects on the night her vision loss led her to walk off the stage mid-performance. What began as a humiliating moment became a turning point that forced her to confront the end of her opera career and re-imagine her way forward. Through music, research, and personal reflection, Julia examines why we get stuck in the first place, and brings us along as she figures out how to let go of the illusion that we're ever finished changing. What happens when the life you built around your talent suddenly falls apart in front of thousands of people? In this AMI-original, writer and performer Julia Bonnett reflects on the night her vision loss led her to walk off the stage mid-performance. What began as a humiliating moment became a turning point that forced her to confront the end of her opera career and re-imagine her way forward. Through music, research, and personal reflection, Julia examines why we get stuck in the first place, and brings us along as she figures out how to let go of the illusion that we're ever finished changing. life story, culture, vision loss, music, opera, art false full 77 1 d5deba1e-6d5b-4418-838e-96e07d57e4c3 The Road to Independence: My Guide Dog Journey We know technology wins a lot of the time, but no tech can connect to humans the way our four-legged working friends do, as they steadily lead us along in their trusted Guide Dog harness, encouraging us to get out there with confidence and ease. Beth Deer takes us through her personal (and sentimental) guide dog experiences.

Beth’s husband, Cody, will join Beth to introduce their family, their pets, and their faithful guide dog Churro. 

Alison Evans and her guide dog Onyx were so influential in Beth’s decision to get a guide dog, and Alison speaks to Beth about why she ended up with a guide dog and her advocacy work through the charity Blatchington Court Trust. 

Plus, Beth is ecstatic to feature Jennifer Bauer, one of Churro’s puppy raisers, on this episode of Reflections. Jennifer is going to talk about what Churro was like as a puppy and the critical role puppy raisers play in everyone’s guide dog journey. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Beth Deer, Ramya Amuthan, Alison Evans, Jennifer Bauer) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-road-to-independence-my-guide-dog-journey-s5LsTivs We know technology wins a lot of the time, but no tech can connect to humans the way our four-legged working friends do, as they steadily lead us along in their trusted Guide Dog harness, encouraging us to get out there with confidence and ease. Beth Deer takes us through her personal (and sentimental) guide dog experiences.

Beth’s husband, Cody, will join Beth to introduce their family, their pets, and their faithful guide dog Churro. 

Alison Evans and her guide dog Onyx were so influential in Beth’s decision to get a guide dog, and Alison speaks to Beth about why she ended up with a guide dog and her advocacy work through the charity Blatchington Court Trust. 

Plus, Beth is ecstatic to feature Jennifer Bauer, one of Churro’s puppy raisers, on this episode of Reflections. Jennifer is going to talk about what Churro was like as a puppy and the critical role puppy raisers play in everyone’s guide dog journey. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Road to Independence: My Guide Dog Journey Beth Deer, Ramya Amuthan, Alison Evans, Jennifer Bauer 00:26:53 We know technology wins a lot of the time, but no tech can connect to humans the way our four-legged working friends do, as they steadily lead us along in their trusted Guide Dog harness, encouraging us to get out there with confidence and ease. Beth Deer takes us through her personal (and sentimental) guide dog experiences. Beth’s husband, Cody, will join Beth to introduce their family, their pets, and their faithful guide dog Churro. Alison Evans and her guide dog Onyx were so influential in Beth’s decision to get a guide dog, and Alison speaks to Beth about why she ended up with a guide dog and her advocacy work through the charity Blatchington Court Trust. Plus, Beth is ecstatic to feature Jennifer Bauer, one of Churro’s puppy raisers, on this episode of Reflections. Jennifer is going to talk about what Churro was like as a puppy and the critical role puppy raisers play in everyone’s guide dog journey. We know technology wins a lot of the time, but no tech can connect to humans the way our four-legged working friends do, as they steadily lead us along in their trusted Guide Dog harness, encouraging us to get out there with confidence and ease. Beth Deer takes us through her personal (and sentimental) guide dog experiences. Beth’s husband, Cody, will join Beth to introduce their family, their pets, and their faithful guide dog Churro. Alison Evans and her guide dog Onyx were so influential in Beth’s decision to get a guide dog, and Alison speaks to Beth about why she ended up with a guide dog and her advocacy work through the charity Blatchington Court Trust. Plus, Beth is ecstatic to feature Jennifer Bauer, one of Churro’s puppy raisers, on this episode of Reflections. Jennifer is going to talk about what Churro was like as a puppy and the critical role puppy raisers play in everyone’s guide dog journey. independence, mobility, service dog, training, accessibility, service animal, orientation, guide dog, dog guide, guide dogs for the blind, seeing eye dog false full 76 1 c4741388-e35e-4f31-a669-186a618fd88c A Hot Concern: Lithium ion battery fires Since I was a child, I’ve had a fear of fires that has fostered a healthy respect for fire safety. Lithium-ion batteries have created a dose of awareness recently as they become part of a growing Concern. Division Chief Marla Friebe Public Education and Professional Development at Toronto Fire Services, informs us as to what’s currently happening with this disturbing trend and lays out a road map of concern involving Lithium batteries. How do you fight these kinds of fires? Captain Jason Boyd has that answer and more. Rob van Deel Piepers, an insurance broker from London Ontario response to the property and health concerns that impact his clients. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Marla Friebe, Jason Boyd, Rob van Deel Piepers, electronics, fire department, emergency services) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/a-hot-concern-lithium-ion-battery-fires-TEF4E7Bx Since I was a child, I’ve had a fear of fires that has fostered a healthy respect for fire safety. Lithium-ion batteries have created a dose of awareness recently as they become part of a growing Concern. Division Chief Marla Friebe Public Education and Professional Development at Toronto Fire Services, informs us as to what’s currently happening with this disturbing trend and lays out a road map of concern involving Lithium batteries. How do you fight these kinds of fires? Captain Jason Boyd has that answer and more. Rob van Deel Piepers, an insurance broker from London Ontario response to the property and health concerns that impact his clients. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> A Hot Concern: Lithium ion battery fires Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan, Marla Friebe, Jason Boyd, Rob van Deel Piepers, electronics, fire department, emergency services 00:28:00 Since I was a child, I’ve had a fear of fires that has fostered a healthy respect for fire safety. Lithium-ion batteries have created a dose of awareness recently as they become part of a growing Concern. Division Chief Marla Friebe Public Education and Professional Development at Toronto Fire Services, informs us as to what’s currently happening with this disturbing trend and lays out a road map of concern involving Lithium batteries. How do you fight these kinds of fires? Captain Jason Boyd has that answer and more. Rob van Deel Piepers, an insurance broker from London Ontario response to the property and health concerns that impact his clients. Since I was a child, I’ve had a fear of fires that has fostered a healthy respect for fire safety. Lithium-ion batteries have created a dose of awareness recently as they become part of a growing Concern. Division Chief Marla Friebe Public Education and Professional Development at Toronto Fire Services, informs us as to what’s currently happening with this disturbing trend and lays out a road map of concern involving Lithium batteries. How do you fight these kinds of fires? Captain Jason Boyd has that answer and more. Rob van Deel Piepers, an insurance broker from London Ontario response to the property and health concerns that impact his clients. safety, emergency preparedness, emergency, fire fighter, emergency preparation, firefighter false full 75 1 7005efd4-6135-443d-a801-ce0155204ea6 A Reality Check: trying to get by on disability assistance Grant Hardy helps us take a closer look at the reality of life on disability assistance, following a recent report in the mainstream media about turmoil at BC’s Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

Helaine Boyd, Executive Director at Disability Alliance BC speaks about DABC’s position on the recent story, and how attitudinal barriers impact marginalized people.

Student and Research Assistant Gillian Backlin describes the challenges she personally faces as a recipient of provincial disability assistance in BC and explains how she would appreciate more balanced coverage of this situation in the mainstream media.

And Freelance Journalist John Loeppky shares his perspective on creating effective conversations about disability issues in our media.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan, Helaine Boyd, Gillian Backlin, John Loeppky) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/a-reality-check-trying-to-get-by-on-disability-assistance-sFAnFQvN Grant Hardy helps us take a closer look at the reality of life on disability assistance, following a recent report in the mainstream media about turmoil at BC’s Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

Helaine Boyd, Executive Director at Disability Alliance BC speaks about DABC’s position on the recent story, and how attitudinal barriers impact marginalized people.

Student and Research Assistant Gillian Backlin describes the challenges she personally faces as a recipient of provincial disability assistance in BC and explains how she would appreciate more balanced coverage of this situation in the mainstream media.

And Freelance Journalist John Loeppky shares his perspective on creating effective conversations about disability issues in our media.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> A Reality Check: trying to get by on disability assistance Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan, Helaine Boyd, Gillian Backlin, John Loeppky 00:26:45 Grant Hardy helps us take a closer look at the reality of life on disability assistance, following a recent report in the mainstream media about turmoil at BC’s Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. Helaine Boyd, Executive Director at Disability Alliance BC speaks about DABC’s position on the recent story, and how attitudinal barriers impact marginalized people. Student and Research Assistant Gillian Backlin describes the challenges she personally faces as a recipient of provincial disability assistance in BC and explains how she would appreciate more balanced coverage of this situation in the mainstream media. And Freelance Journalist John Loeppky shares his perspective on creating effective conversations about disability issues in our media. Grant Hardy helps us take a closer look at the reality of life on disability assistance, following a recent report in the mainstream media about turmoil at BC’s Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. Helaine Boyd, Executive Director at Disability Alliance BC speaks about DABC’s position on the recent story, and how attitudinal barriers impact marginalized people. Student and Research Assistant Gillian Backlin describes the challenges she personally faces as a recipient of provincial disability assistance in BC and explains how she would appreciate more balanced coverage of this situation in the mainstream media. And Freelance Journalist John Loeppky shares his perspective on creating effective conversations about disability issues in our media. disability rights, journalism, social assistance, whistleblower, news, british columbia, report, policy false full 74 1 4225f0fc-8fbc-44ce-982c-b94b208163d3 What's Love Got to Do With It: Exploring Inter-abled Relationships What is an inter-abled relationship? Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta wanted to learn more about inter-abled relationships, the stereotypes, the risks of caregiver abuse, and celebrate the love that any two people share, regardless of their different backgrounds or abilities. 

Joeita turned to her trusted friend, Brock Richardson, and his wife Megan to help her challenge some of the most common and ableist stereotypes that exist about inter-abled relationships. 

Plus, Joeita is joined by Andrew Gurza, a disability awareness consultant, to talk about the risks of caregiver abuse, dealing with objections from family members, and maintaining intimacy while caregivers are in and out of the house.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta, Andrew Gurza, Brock Richardson, Megan Anderson) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/whats-love-got-to-do-with-it-exploring-inter-abled-relationships-ABQJ975z What is an inter-abled relationship? Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta wanted to learn more about inter-abled relationships, the stereotypes, the risks of caregiver abuse, and celebrate the love that any two people share, regardless of their different backgrounds or abilities. 

Joeita turned to her trusted friend, Brock Richardson, and his wife Megan to help her challenge some of the most common and ableist stereotypes that exist about inter-abled relationships. 

Plus, Joeita is joined by Andrew Gurza, a disability awareness consultant, to talk about the risks of caregiver abuse, dealing with objections from family members, and maintaining intimacy while caregivers are in and out of the house.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> What's Love Got to Do With It: Exploring Inter-abled Relationships Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta, Andrew Gurza, Brock Richardson, Megan Anderson 00:28:00 What is an inter-abled relationship? Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta wanted to learn more about inter-abled relationships, the stereotypes, the risks of caregiver abuse, and celebrate the love that any two people share, regardless of their different backgrounds or abilities. Joeita turned to her trusted friend, Brock Richardson, and his wife Megan to help her challenge some of the most common and ableist stereotypes that exist about inter-abled relationships. Plus, Joeita is joined by Andrew Gurza, a disability awareness consultant, to talk about the risks of caregiver abuse, dealing with objections from family members, and maintaining intimacy while caregivers are in and out of the house. What is an inter-abled relationship? Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta wanted to learn more about inter-abled relationships, the stereotypes, the risks of caregiver abuse, and celebrate the love that any two people share, regardless of their different backgrounds or abilities. Joeita turned to her trusted friend, Brock Richardson, and his wife Megan to help her challenge some of the most common and ableist stereotypes that exist about inter-abled relationships. Plus, Joeita is joined by Andrew Gurza, a disability awareness consultant, to talk about the risks of caregiver abuse, dealing with objections from family members, and maintaining intimacy while caregivers are in and out of the house. social assistance, caregiver, love, partnership, disability benefits, stigma false full 73 1 4d2f12f3-354e-410c-8eb7-1024d625aa7a Are Malls Dying: Re-imagining the Town Square Are people still hanging out at malls? We shop online and socialize differently, so how are malls being affected? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out if malls are on their way out or if they still serve an important purpose.

Bruce Winder is a Retail Analyst, and he paints a picture of the North American retail landscape, describing how malls fit into our current shopping norms, lifestyles, and community needs.

Katrina Onstad, Author of The Weekend Effect, brings us back to the idea of the 'town square,' a timeless staple of all geographical community developments.

We hear from Daniel O'Donnell, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at the Oxford Properties Group, about the luxury malls in and around Toronto that continue to thrive and offer all kinds of meaningful experiences to their customers.

And Deputy Mayor of London, Ontario, Shawn Lewis breaks down how the city is re-imagining emptying malls into living spaces and other kinds of all-in-one community developments.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Daniel O'Donnell, Bruce Winder, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Katrina Onstad, Ramya Amuthan, Shawn Lewis) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/are-malls-dying-re-imagining-the-town-square-YT0BKW4g Are people still hanging out at malls? We shop online and socialize differently, so how are malls being affected? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out if malls are on their way out or if they still serve an important purpose.

Bruce Winder is a Retail Analyst, and he paints a picture of the North American retail landscape, describing how malls fit into our current shopping norms, lifestyles, and community needs.

Katrina Onstad, Author of The Weekend Effect, brings us back to the idea of the 'town square,' a timeless staple of all geographical community developments.

We hear from Daniel O'Donnell, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at the Oxford Properties Group, about the luxury malls in and around Toronto that continue to thrive and offer all kinds of meaningful experiences to their customers.

And Deputy Mayor of London, Ontario, Shawn Lewis breaks down how the city is re-imagining emptying malls into living spaces and other kinds of all-in-one community developments.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Are Malls Dying: Re-imagining the Town Square Daniel O'Donnell, Bruce Winder, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Katrina Onstad, Ramya Amuthan, Shawn Lewis 00:28:00 Are people still hanging out at malls? We shop online and socialize differently, so how are malls being affected? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out if malls are on their way out or if they still serve an important purpose. Bruce Winder is a Retail Analyst, and he paints a picture of the North American retail landscape, describing how malls fit into our current shopping norms, lifestyles, and community needs. Katrina Onstad, Author of The Weekend Effect, brings us back to the idea of the 'town square,' a timeless staple of all geographical community developments. We hear from Daniel O'Donnell, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at the Oxford Properties Group, about the luxury malls in and around Toronto that continue to thrive and offer all kinds of meaningful experiences to their customers. And Deputy Mayor of London, Ontario, Shawn Lewis breaks down how the city is re-imagining emptying malls into living spaces and other kinds of all-in-one community developments. Are people still hanging out at malls? We shop online and socialize differently, so how are malls being affected? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out if malls are on their way out or if they still serve an important purpose. Bruce Winder is a Retail Analyst, and he paints a picture of the North American retail landscape, describing how malls fit into our current shopping norms, lifestyles, and community needs. Katrina Onstad, Author of The Weekend Effect, brings us back to the idea of the 'town square,' a timeless staple of all geographical community developments. We hear from Daniel O'Donnell, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at the Oxford Properties Group, about the luxury malls in and around Toronto that continue to thrive and offer all kinds of meaningful experiences to their customers. And Deputy Mayor of London, Ontario, Shawn Lewis breaks down how the city is re-imagining emptying malls into living spaces and other kinds of all-in-one community developments. economics, development, city planning, plaza, city planner, department store, exonomy, big box, shopping false full 72 1 21de7267-d6c2-4a89-b6f8-a85e5da7649b Savings Made Accessible: Learning How to Stretch your dollar Many of us are shopping on a budget, so let's learn how to shop even smarter. From coupon clipping to unexpected discount discoveries and dumpster diving, Kelly MacDonald explores how we can stretch our dollar even further and engage in the conversation around accessible deal-finding.

Social Media Influencer Cassandra Marques shares savvy shopping tips and tricks that her followers appreciate, everything from couponing to penny shopping.

Roger Khouri encourages the blind and low-vision community to take advantage of accessible bargaining apps and stresses the importance of actively taking part in the accessibility discussions around budgeting as well.

And Jennifer LaForge, General Manager at Rakuten Canada, shares how you can use their accessible platform to preserve our shopping budget.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Roger Khouri, Cassandra Marques, Jennifer LaForge, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/savings-made-accessible-learning-how-to-stretch-your-dollar-pVGiASaD Many of us are shopping on a budget, so let's learn how to shop even smarter. From coupon clipping to unexpected discount discoveries and dumpster diving, Kelly MacDonald explores how we can stretch our dollar even further and engage in the conversation around accessible deal-finding.

Social Media Influencer Cassandra Marques shares savvy shopping tips and tricks that her followers appreciate, everything from couponing to penny shopping.

Roger Khouri encourages the blind and low-vision community to take advantage of accessible bargaining apps and stresses the importance of actively taking part in the accessibility discussions around budgeting as well.

And Jennifer LaForge, General Manager at Rakuten Canada, shares how you can use their accessible platform to preserve our shopping budget.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Savings Made Accessible: Learning How to Stretch your dollar Kelly MacDonald, Roger Khouri, Cassandra Marques, Jennifer LaForge, Ramya Amuthan 00:27:30 Many of us are shopping on a budget, so let's learn how to shop even smarter. From coupon clipping to unexpected discount discoveries and dumpster diving, Kelly MacDonald explores how we can stretch our dollar even further and engage in the conversation around accessible deal-finding. Social Media Influencer Cassandra Marques shares savvy shopping tips and tricks that her followers appreciate, everything from couponing to penny shopping. Roger Khouri encourages the blind and low-vision community to take advantage of accessible bargaining apps and stresses the importance of actively taking part in the accessibility discussions around budgeting as well. And Jennifer LaForge, General Manager at Rakuten Canada, shares how you can use their accessible platform to preserve our shopping budget. Many of us are shopping on a budget, so let's learn how to shop even smarter. From coupon clipping to unexpected discount discoveries and dumpster diving, Kelly MacDonald explores how we can stretch our dollar even further and engage in the conversation around accessible deal-finding. Social Media Influencer Cassandra Marques shares savvy shopping tips and tricks that her followers appreciate, everything from couponing to penny shopping. Roger Khouri encourages the blind and low-vision community to take advantage of accessible bargaining apps and stresses the importance of actively taking part in the accessibility discussions around budgeting as well. And Jennifer LaForge, General Manager at Rakuten Canada, shares how you can use their accessible platform to preserve our shopping budget. points, savings, couponing, coupons, purchase, deal, coupon, deals, shopping, how to, price matching, coupon stacking, money back, cash back false full 71 1 79f1e559-1ef4-4bce-982e-cc4134166c23 Digging Out: How Toronto Managed a Historic Snowfall On January 25th, 2026 the Greater Toronto Area received almost 60 centimetres of snow in a storm that many people have dubbed historic. While most of us may have been hunkered down in our homes for the storm, what was going on in the City of Toronto? 

Joeita Gupta speaks to representatives from organizations across the city, and residents to gather their stories and capture a snapshot of Toronto life during a major snowstorm.  

Harold Hosein is a meteorologist with 50 years of experience in his field, and will shed some light on how meteorologists prepare the public for a significant weather event. 

Neelam Nayak is Joeita’s neighbour who made the most of the snow day with a visit to Nathan Philips Square. 

Disability advocate David Lepofsky will explain how the City of Toronto could work to eliminate as many snow-caused accessibility barriers as possible. 

Joeita is joined by Maritza Sanchez the Executive Director of Red Door Family Shelters to speak to the homelessness crisis and how unhoused individuals are affected by major weather.

Stuart Green is a spokesperson for the Toronto Transit Commission and will explain how the TTC prepares for a major weather event to ensure service runs smoothly. 

Plus, Bill Shackleton will join Joeita with some of his snowstorm tips and tricks to make sure you and your home are prepared for extreme weather.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Feb 2026 20:24:05 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Harold Hosein, Maritza Sanchez, Joeita Gupta, Neelam Nayak, Stuart Green, Ramya Amuthan, David Lepofsky, Bill Shackleton, meteorology) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/digging-out-how-toronto-managed-a-historic-snowfall-6O_I0B_0 On January 25th, 2026 the Greater Toronto Area received almost 60 centimetres of snow in a storm that many people have dubbed historic. While most of us may have been hunkered down in our homes for the storm, what was going on in the City of Toronto? 

Joeita Gupta speaks to representatives from organizations across the city, and residents to gather their stories and capture a snapshot of Toronto life during a major snowstorm.  

Harold Hosein is a meteorologist with 50 years of experience in his field, and will shed some light on how meteorologists prepare the public for a significant weather event. 

Neelam Nayak is Joeita’s neighbour who made the most of the snow day with a visit to Nathan Philips Square. 

Disability advocate David Lepofsky will explain how the City of Toronto could work to eliminate as many snow-caused accessibility barriers as possible. 

Joeita is joined by Maritza Sanchez the Executive Director of Red Door Family Shelters to speak to the homelessness crisis and how unhoused individuals are affected by major weather.

Stuart Green is a spokesperson for the Toronto Transit Commission and will explain how the TTC prepares for a major weather event to ensure service runs smoothly. 

Plus, Bill Shackleton will join Joeita with some of his snowstorm tips and tricks to make sure you and your home are prepared for extreme weather.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Digging Out: How Toronto Managed a Historic Snowfall Harold Hosein, Maritza Sanchez, Joeita Gupta, Neelam Nayak, Stuart Green, Ramya Amuthan, David Lepofsky, Bill Shackleton, meteorology 00:26:33 On January 25th, 2026 the Greater Toronto Area received almost 60 centimetres of snow in a storm that many people have dubbed historic. While most of us may have been hunkered down in our homes for the storm, what was going on in the City of Toronto? Joeita Gupta speaks to representatives from organizations across the city, and residents to gather their stories and capture a snapshot of Toronto life during a major snowstorm. Harold Hosein is a meteorologist with 50 years of experience in his field, and will shed some light on how meteorologists prepare the public for a significant weather event. Neelam Nayak is Joeita’s neighbour who made the most of the snow day with a visit to Nathan Philips Square. Disability advocate David Lepofsky will explain how the City of Toronto could work to eliminate as many snow-caused accessibility barriers as possible. Joeita is joined by Maritza Sanchez the Executive Director of Red Door Family Shelters to speak to the homelessness crisis and how unhoused individuals are affected by major weather. Stuart Green is a spokesperson for the Toronto Transit Commission and will explain how the TTC prepares for a major weather event to ensure service runs smoothly. Plus, Bill Shackleton will join Joeita with some of his snowstorm tips and tricks to make sure you and your home are prepared for extreme weather. On January 25th, 2026 the Greater Toronto Area received almost 60 centimetres of snow in a storm that many people have dubbed historic. While most of us may have been hunkered down in our homes for the storm, what was going on in the City of Toronto? Joeita Gupta speaks to representatives from organizations across the city, and residents to gather their stories and capture a snapshot of Toronto life during a major snowstorm. Harold Hosein is a meteorologist with 50 years of experience in his field, and will shed some light on how meteorologists prepare the public for a significant weather event. Neelam Nayak is Joeita’s neighbour who made the most of the snow day with a visit to Nathan Philips Square. Disability advocate David Lepofsky will explain how the City of Toronto could work to eliminate as many snow-caused accessibility barriers as possible. Joeita is joined by Maritza Sanchez the Executive Director of Red Door Family Shelters to speak to the homelessness crisis and how unhoused individuals are affected by major weather. Stuart Green is a spokesperson for the Toronto Transit Commission and will explain how the TTC prepares for a major weather event to ensure service runs smoothly. Plus, Bill Shackleton will join Joeita with some of his snowstorm tips and tricks to make sure you and your home are prepared for extreme weather. weather, barriers, military, ice storm, snowstorm, transit, winter false full 70 1 a2dfc648-7814-4ea4-aeb3-0aec2265945e Untapped Talent Summit: Breaking down barriers to make employment more inclusive The CCRW’s second annual Untapped Talent Summit takes place online February 10, 2026. It provides resources for job seekers and employers on inclusive employment. The theme, Disability in Action: Navigating the School-to-Work Transition, is particularly welcome this year with an uncertain job market and some of the lowest rates of employment for youth with disabilities that we’ve seen since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grant Hardy learns more about the work that CCRW does, and their upcoming Summit.

Vanessa Sinclair, Director of Research and Evaluation at CCRW, explains the organization's work and gives us a sneak-peak of what we can expect from the summit, including some advice for employers and job seekers.

Chelsea Masson is Outreach Coordinator for the CNIB’s Come to Work Program. She’s one of the panelists at the Summit, and shares her perspective on seeking employment as a person with a disability.

To learn more about the Summit and begin the registration process, you can visit the CCRW’s website:

https://www.untappedtalent.ca/s/about?language=en_US

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 5 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Chelsea Masson, Vanessa Sinclair) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/untapped-talent-summit-breaking-down-barriers-to-make-employment-more-inclusive-hZw1fpoa The CCRW’s second annual Untapped Talent Summit takes place online February 10, 2026. It provides resources for job seekers and employers on inclusive employment. The theme, Disability in Action: Navigating the School-to-Work Transition, is particularly welcome this year with an uncertain job market and some of the lowest rates of employment for youth with disabilities that we’ve seen since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grant Hardy learns more about the work that CCRW does, and their upcoming Summit.

Vanessa Sinclair, Director of Research and Evaluation at CCRW, explains the organization's work and gives us a sneak-peak of what we can expect from the summit, including some advice for employers and job seekers.

Chelsea Masson is Outreach Coordinator for the CNIB’s Come to Work Program. She’s one of the panelists at the Summit, and shares her perspective on seeking employment as a person with a disability.

To learn more about the Summit and begin the registration process, you can visit the CCRW’s website:

https://www.untappedtalent.ca/s/about?language=en_US

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Untapped Talent Summit: Breaking down barriers to make employment more inclusive Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Chelsea Masson, Vanessa Sinclair 00:28:00 The CCRW’s second annual Untapped Talent Summit takes place online February 10, 2026. It provides resources for job seekers and employers on inclusive employment. The theme, Disability in Action: Navigating the School-to-Work Transition, is particularly welcome this year with an uncertain job market and some of the lowest rates of employment for youth with disabilities that we’ve seen since the COVID-19 pandemic. Grant Hardy learns more about the work that CCRW does, and their upcoming Summit. Vanessa Sinclair, Director of Research and Evaluation at CCRW, explains the organization's work and gives us a sneak-peak of what we can expect from the summit, including some advice for employers and job seekers. Chelsea Masson is Outreach Coordinator for the CNIB’s Come to Work Program. She’s one of the panelists at the Summit, and shares her perspective on seeking employment as a person with a disability. To learn more about the Summit and begin the registration process, you can visit the CCRW’s website: https://www.untappedtalent.ca/s/about?language=en_US The CCRW’s second annual Untapped Talent Summit takes place online February 10, 2026. It provides resources for job seekers and employers on inclusive employment. The theme, Disability in Action: Navigating the School-to-Work Transition, is particularly welcome this year with an uncertain job market and some of the lowest rates of employment for youth with disabilities that we’ve seen since the COVID-19 pandemic. Grant Hardy learns more about the work that CCRW does, and their upcoming Summit. Vanessa Sinclair, Director of Research and Evaluation at CCRW, explains the organization's work and gives us a sneak-peak of what we can expect from the summit, including some advice for employers and job seekers. Chelsea Masson is Outreach Coordinator for the CNIB’s Come to Work Program. She’s one of the panelists at the Summit, and shares her perspective on seeking employment as a person with a disability. To learn more about the Summit and begin the registration process, you can visit the CCRW’s website: https://www.untappedtalent.ca/s/about?language=en_US job, post-secondary, oppotunities, employment, barriers, youth, job market, conference false full 69 1 a9832fc1-914c-417b-84c0-5c55c8476a8c Overdue or Overreach: Regulating Social Media in Canada Countries are racing to regulate big tech and keep kids safe from the harms of social media, but the fight isn’t over. Grant Hardy examines how far countries like Australia are willing to go to legislate in hopes of a safer internet.

Lifestyle and Tech Expert Andy Baryer provides his perspective on Australia’s new social media laws, and whether there’s an appetite to bring them to Canada.

It’s unclear if Australia’s tough new legislation would survive in Canada, or even if it should. Danielle McLaughlin is the Retired Director of Education for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and Senior Consultant for the Centre for Freedom of Expression at TMU. She breaks down the legal perspectives around this type of law.

Emilee Schevers is a social media influencer who founded “True Faces” to amplify the voices of people with disabilities. She’s experienced the benefits and drawbacks of social media, and shares her thoughts on internet safety.

We all want to create a safer internet world, but it matters how we do that. Here’s a taste of the debates that are taking place surrounding internet safety, and how far we should go to prevent online harm.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/overdue-or-overreach-regulating-social-media-in-canada-hy3pignz-35VmoT_r Countries are racing to regulate big tech and keep kids safe from the harms of social media, but the fight isn’t over. Grant Hardy examines how far countries like Australia are willing to go to legislate in hopes of a safer internet.

Lifestyle and Tech Expert Andy Baryer provides his perspective on Australia’s new social media laws, and whether there’s an appetite to bring them to Canada.

It’s unclear if Australia’s tough new legislation would survive in Canada, or even if it should. Danielle McLaughlin is the Retired Director of Education for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and Senior Consultant for the Centre for Freedom of Expression at TMU. She breaks down the legal perspectives around this type of law.

Emilee Schevers is a social media influencer who founded “True Faces” to amplify the voices of people with disabilities. She’s experienced the benefits and drawbacks of social media, and shares her thoughts on internet safety.

We all want to create a safer internet world, but it matters how we do that. Here’s a taste of the debates that are taking place surrounding internet safety, and how far we should go to prevent online harm.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Overdue or Overreach: Regulating Social Media in Canada AMI 00:28:00 false full 67 1 5ff721bb-e6b2-4f02-a09c-0b33338c523d When Rest Feels Like Failure: Slowing Down Without Shame Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Susi Niazi, Katrina Onstad, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Nathan Sartore, Frances Wong) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/when-rest-feels-like-failure-slowing-down-without-shame-_G8qYPo3 When Rest Feels Like Failure: Slowing Down Without Shame Susi Niazi, Katrina Onstad, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan, Nathan Sartore, Frances Wong 00:24:00 We know we’re tired. We talk about burnout constantly. And yet, when we finally slow down, rest can feel uncomfortable. Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores why rest so often feels like failure, and how we can take small steps towards embracing rest and reassessing our needs. Susi Niazi is a senior corporate executive navigating leadership responsibilities and a nonstop pace at work. She's also a mother of two figuring out how to balance work and life, by adding bits of restful moments into her day. We hear from Katrina Onstad, author of The Weekend Effect, who highlights the history of the 5-day workweek, and how to make the best of our 2-day weekends. Nathan Sartore, artist and Managing Director of The Disability Collective, introduces us to the idea of Crip Time, which is very popular in artistic spaces, and challenges the way we bend to the clock. And Frances Wong is a yoga instructor who helps us unpack our complicated relationship with stillness, and offers suggestions on starting our relationship with rest slowly. We know we’re tired. We talk about burnout constantly. And yet, when we finally slow down, rest can feel uncomfortable. Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores why rest so often feels like failure, and how we can take small steps towards embracing rest and reassessing our needs. Susi Niazi is a senior corporate executive navigating leadership responsibilities and a nonstop pace at work. She's also a mother of two figuring out how to balance work and life, by adding bits of restful moments into her day. We hear from Katrina Onstad, author of The Weekend Effect, who highlights the history of the 5-day workweek, and how to make the best of our 2-day weekends. Nathan Sartore, artist and Managing Director of The Disability Collective, introduces us to the idea of Crip Time, which is very popular in artistic spaces, and challenges the way we bend to the clock. And Frances Wong is a yoga instructor who helps us unpack our complicated relationship with stillness, and offers suggestions on starting our relationship with rest slowly. nature and mental health, wellbeing, hustle culture, productivity culture, mental health, annie dillard, susi niazi, gig economy, facebook culture, hobbies and flow state, five-day work week history, the weekend effect, chronic illness and fatigue, mindfulness, meditation, self-worth and productivity, nathan sartore, seneca, pilates, health, precarious work, leisure and downtime, disabled community and time, the disability collective, rest guilt, yoga for stress, burnout, breathwork, frances wong, nervous system regulation, box breathing, capitalism and busyness, work-life balance, ableism, crip time, sunday night blues, boundaries at work, mark zuckerberg, rest as failure, dustin moskowitz, sleep and recovery, katrina onstad false full 66 1 2adc3db0-bdd3-4ab9-9369-435100d40fc2 Food and Wellbeing: Redefining Our Relationship with the Kitchen Joeita Gupta finds some helpful tips to navigate a complicated relationship with food from culinary expert Mary Mammoliti, Master Chef winner and restaurant owner Christine Ha, and Dietician Gena Hamshaw. 

Learn to be gracious with yourself, approach your diet with moderation in mind, and find ways that work for your season of life to make those weeknight dinners less stressful.

To find support for an eating disorder, reach out to the National Eating Disorder Information Centre’s helpline at: 1-866-622-4220 or visit their website: nedic.ca

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Christine Ha, Gena Hamshaw, Mary Mammoliti, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/food-and-wellbeing-redefining-our-relationship-with-the-kitchen-As29hxaP Joeita Gupta finds some helpful tips to navigate a complicated relationship with food from culinary expert Mary Mammoliti, Master Chef winner and restaurant owner Christine Ha, and Dietician Gena Hamshaw. 

Learn to be gracious with yourself, approach your diet with moderation in mind, and find ways that work for your season of life to make those weeknight dinners less stressful.

To find support for an eating disorder, reach out to the National Eating Disorder Information Centre’s helpline at: 1-866-622-4220 or visit their website: nedic.ca

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Food and Wellbeing: Redefining Our Relationship with the Kitchen Christine Ha, Gena Hamshaw, Mary Mammoliti, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta 00:28:00 Joeita Gupta finds some helpful tips to navigate a complicated relationship with food from culinary expert Mary Mammoliti, Master Chef winner and restaurant owner Christine Ha, and Dietician Gena Hamshaw. Learn to be gracious with yourself, approach your diet with moderation in mind, and find ways that work for your season of life to make those weeknight dinners less stressful. To find support for an eating disorder, reach out to the National Eating Disorder Information Centre’s helpline at: 1-866-622-4220 or visit their website: nedic.ca Joeita Gupta finds some helpful tips to navigate a complicated relationship with food from culinary expert Mary Mammoliti, Master Chef winner and restaurant owner Christine Ha, and Dietician Gena Hamshaw. Learn to be gracious with yourself, approach your diet with moderation in mind, and find ways that work for your season of life to make those weeknight dinners less stressful. To find support for an eating disorder, reach out to the National Eating Disorder Information Centre’s helpline at: 1-866-622-4220 or visit their website: nedic.ca master chef, gordon ramsey, diet, health, ed, diets, cooking, healthy, new year false full 65 1 e7a6fd92-2638-40cc-a8d9-ed8f52fea7b6 Sustainable Living: Take Our Time and Do It Right Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/sustainable-living-take-our-time-and-do-it-right-Xd7gTfM3 Sustainable Living: Take Our Time and Do It Right Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:24:00 It takes a bit of thought and a bit of change, but not as much effort as we believe, to create and maintain a sustainable lifestyle. Kelly MacDonald brings us along as he learns how our small choices impact how we care for our Earth. Laura Newton, Founder of The Kind Matter Company, is an expert on sustainable living, and shares how we can move to clean purchases and clean products, without it having to break the bank. Laura explains what it actually means to buy clean and organic. Spoiler alert: it goes way beyond the packaging label and ingredient list. Laura also shouts out some of her favourite natural products and clean Canadian companies for us to jot down. One of these companies is Oneka, producing self-care products that stay friendly to the environment, which we learn more about from Co-founder, Philippe Choinière. It takes a bit of thought and a bit of change, but not as much effort as we believe, to create and maintain a sustainable lifestyle. Kelly MacDonald brings us along as he learns how our small choices impact how we care for our Earth. Laura Newton, Founder of The Kind Matter Company, is an expert on sustainable living, and shares how we can move to clean purchases and clean products, without it having to break the bank. Laura explains what it actually means to buy clean and organic. Spoiler alert: it goes way beyond the packaging label and ingredient list. Laura also shouts out some of her favourite natural products and clean Canadian companies for us to jot down. One of these companies is Oneka, producing self-care products that stay friendly to the environment, which we learn more about from Co-founder, Philippe Choinière. oneka, sustainability, philippe choinière, sustainable living, laura newton, the kind matter company false full 64 1 4edcc222-bfcf-4437-861f-f461fb5ed086 Is this seat taken? Navigating Priority Seating on Public Transit Generally speaking, there's an honour system when it comes to using public transit, but when it comes to priority seating on buses, trains, and planes, it can get grey. Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores this topic.

Suzanne Holder is the Customer Experience Manager at MiWay, Mississauga, Ontario's major transport system. She shares how riders with invisible disabilities can identify themselves through the Sunflower program, which extends to Metrolinx-operated transit as well.

Sonia Gangopadhyay, Director at the Centre of Expertise for Accessible Transportation with the Canadian Transportation Agency, explains the One Person, One Fare policy, legislated for travelers with disabilities within Canadian borders.

Debbie Gillespie, 2026 ACAT Vice-Chair for the Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit, which works with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), explains how accessible travel is handled in the big city.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/is-this-seat-taken-navigating-priority-seating-on-public-transit-ejWAANtq Generally speaking, there's an honour system when it comes to using public transit, but when it comes to priority seating on buses, trains, and planes, it can get grey. Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores this topic.

Suzanne Holder is the Customer Experience Manager at MiWay, Mississauga, Ontario's major transport system. She shares how riders with invisible disabilities can identify themselves through the Sunflower program, which extends to Metrolinx-operated transit as well.

Sonia Gangopadhyay, Director at the Centre of Expertise for Accessible Transportation with the Canadian Transportation Agency, explains the One Person, One Fare policy, legislated for travelers with disabilities within Canadian borders.

Debbie Gillespie, 2026 ACAT Vice-Chair for the Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit, which works with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), explains how accessible travel is handled in the big city.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Is this seat taken? Navigating Priority Seating on Public Transit AMI 00:25:55 false full 63 1 11b7cb5e-2677-4932-9dac-1159ed3fdad7 Return to Work: Discussing Office Mandates and Accommodations Returning to the office due to new mandates? The adjustment isn’t being taken well by all, and there are some serious accessibility issues to address. Joeita Gupta is answering all our burning questions around which employers are insisting workers come back to the office and why. What role is the Canadian government playing in all of this? And how are people with disabilities being affected? 

Opeyemi Akanbi is an Assistant Professor at the School of Professional Communication at Toronto Metropolitan University, who will lend us her expertise to understand why employers want their employees back in the office. 

Jennifer Hope is the Director of Development and Capacity Building at the Ontario Disability Employment Network. Jennifer shares the role that employers and employees should take in the accommodation process. 

Plus, Mette Aubé is Principal Consultant at Untapped Accessibility in BC. Mette will bring valuable tips and perspectives for employers who want to create work environments with accessibility at the forefront.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Opeyemi Akanbi, Jennifer Hope, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/return-to-work-discussing-office-mandates-and-accommodations-r1sddO9x Returning to the office due to new mandates? The adjustment isn’t being taken well by all, and there are some serious accessibility issues to address. Joeita Gupta is answering all our burning questions around which employers are insisting workers come back to the office and why. What role is the Canadian government playing in all of this? And how are people with disabilities being affected? 

Opeyemi Akanbi is an Assistant Professor at the School of Professional Communication at Toronto Metropolitan University, who will lend us her expertise to understand why employers want their employees back in the office. 

Jennifer Hope is the Director of Development and Capacity Building at the Ontario Disability Employment Network. Jennifer shares the role that employers and employees should take in the accommodation process. 

Plus, Mette Aubé is Principal Consultant at Untapped Accessibility in BC. Mette will bring valuable tips and perspectives for employers who want to create work environments with accessibility at the forefront.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Return to Work: Discussing Office Mandates and Accommodations Opeyemi Akanbi, Jennifer Hope, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta 00:28:00 Returning to the office due to new mandates? The adjustment isn’t being taken well by all, and there are some serious accessibility issues to address. Joeita Gupta is answering all our burning questions around which employers are insisting workers come back to the office and why. What role is the Canadian government playing in all of this? And how are people with disabilities being affected? Opeyemi Akanbi is an Assistant Professor at the School of Professional Communication at Toronto Metropolitan University, who will lend us her expertise to understand why employers want their employees back in the office. Jennifer Hope is the Director of Development and Capacity Building at the Ontario Disability Employment Network. Jennifer shares the role that employers and employees should take in the accommodation process. Plus, Mette Aubé is Principal Consultant at Untapped Accessibility in BC. Mette will bring valuable tips and perspectives for employers who want to create work environments with accessibility at the forefront. Returning to the office due to new mandates? The adjustment isn’t being taken well by all, and there are some serious accessibility issues to address. Joeita Gupta is answering all our burning questions around which employers are insisting workers come back to the office and why. What role is the Canadian government playing in all of this? And how are people with disabilities being affected? Opeyemi Akanbi is an Assistant Professor at the School of Professional Communication at Toronto Metropolitan University, who will lend us her expertise to understand why employers want their employees back in the office. Jennifer Hope is the Director of Development and Capacity Building at the Ontario Disability Employment Network. Jennifer shares the role that employers and employees should take in the accommodation process. Plus, Mette Aubé is Principal Consultant at Untapped Accessibility in BC. Mette will bring valuable tips and perspectives for employers who want to create work environments with accessibility at the forefront. tmu, mette aubé, ryerson university, oden, legislation, office culture, rights, workplace, accommodation false full 62 1 e85bc988-8128-47e2-8d68-13efa1bf51bb Canada's First UNESCO City of Music: Celebrating the Arts of London, Ontario London, Ontario was designated as Canada's first UNESCO City of Music in 2021, recognizing its vibrant music scene and commitment to cultural development, and Kelly MacDonald was thrilled to commemorate.

Mario Circelli, Founder and Chair of The London Music Hall of Fame, introduces us to this special music community, and helps us explore what the UNESCO title means for London's growth. We hear about fostering collaboration, increasing music opportunities, and supporting local art initiatives with passionate world-class concert pianist Clark Bryan, Darin Addison of the Home County Folk Festival, and Dario Novoa, Founder of Simple Reflections for Artists.

Let's celebrate how truly rich in music this Canadian city is.

Music Credits: The Forest City by Simple Reflections for Artists; composed by Juan David Gomez and Gianny Correa Arcos, with lyrics by Juan David Gomez, Dario Novoa, Karen Sandoval-Santana, and Louis Rudolph Engel

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/canadas-first-unesco-city-of-music-celebrating-the-arts-of-london-ontario-bxuzIAr7 London, Ontario was designated as Canada's first UNESCO City of Music in 2021, recognizing its vibrant music scene and commitment to cultural development, and Kelly MacDonald was thrilled to commemorate.

Mario Circelli, Founder and Chair of The London Music Hall of Fame, introduces us to this special music community, and helps us explore what the UNESCO title means for London's growth. We hear about fostering collaboration, increasing music opportunities, and supporting local art initiatives with passionate world-class concert pianist Clark Bryan, Darin Addison of the Home County Folk Festival, and Dario Novoa, Founder of Simple Reflections for Artists.

Let's celebrate how truly rich in music this Canadian city is.

Music Credits: The Forest City by Simple Reflections for Artists; composed by Juan David Gomez and Gianny Correa Arcos, with lyrics by Juan David Gomez, Dario Novoa, Karen Sandoval-Santana, and Louis Rudolph Engel

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Canada's First UNESCO City of Music: Celebrating the Arts of London, Ontario AMI 00:30:00 false full 61 1 bc5fbe72-2cb7-4411-910a-f709d4263270 Conquering Kilimanjaro: Eleven Blind Hikers Take On Africa’s Highest Mountain Last fall, a group of eleven blind hikers traveled to Tanzania to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro. Grant Hardy speaks with climbers Peter Quaiattini, David Brown, and Tammy Adams about the triumphs, challenges, and highlights of their hiking journeys.

The trip was made possible by Nana Safaris. It’s a mainstream tour and travel company based in Arusha – Tanzania that incorporates accessibility into its tours. Director Idrisa Abel shares how they facilitated the journey and explains why inclusivity is built right into the heart of the company.

Whether checking off a personal goal or advocating for the blind community, each hikers’ story was different. But they all had one thing in common: they worked together as a team.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/conquering-kilimanjaro-eleven-blind-hikers-take-on-africas-highest-mountain-4GZTPwO_ Last fall, a group of eleven blind hikers traveled to Tanzania to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro. Grant Hardy speaks with climbers Peter Quaiattini, David Brown, and Tammy Adams about the triumphs, challenges, and highlights of their hiking journeys.

The trip was made possible by Nana Safaris. It’s a mainstream tour and travel company based in Arusha – Tanzania that incorporates accessibility into its tours. Director Idrisa Abel shares how they facilitated the journey and explains why inclusivity is built right into the heart of the company.

Whether checking off a personal goal or advocating for the blind community, each hikers’ story was different. But they all had one thing in common: they worked together as a team.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Conquering Kilimanjaro: Eleven Blind Hikers Take On Africa’s Highest Mountain AMI 00:28:00 false full 60 1 071ee4bf-6644-4782-9ac0-511cc44bfc4b My First Accessible Breakthrough: Embracing the Small Moments What’s the first moment when life after vision loss starts to feel possible again?

Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the small, powerful breakthroughs that reshape independence, the moments that may look ordinary from the outside but carry deep emotional weight for the people experiencing them.

Through firsthand stories, Ariana Noughira shares what it meant to regain confidence with her guide dog by her side. Becki Zerr reflects on how losing her vision forced her to reimagine parenting, identity, and daily life. And Leanne Baarda, an Independent Living Skills Specialist with Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, offers insight into how learning everyday skills from cooking to technology can restore confidence, control, and connection.

Access isn’t always about sweeping change, it can be about the first moment you realize you can move forward again.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ariana Noughira, Becki Zerr, Leanne Baarda, low vision, assistive technology, assistive devices, ILS, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, blind, tech, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/my-first-accessible-breakthrough-embracing-the-small-moments-VbzRhkdT What’s the first moment when life after vision loss starts to feel possible again?

Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the small, powerful breakthroughs that reshape independence, the moments that may look ordinary from the outside but carry deep emotional weight for the people experiencing them.

Through firsthand stories, Ariana Noughira shares what it meant to regain confidence with her guide dog by her side. Becki Zerr reflects on how losing her vision forced her to reimagine parenting, identity, and daily life. And Leanne Baarda, an Independent Living Skills Specialist with Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, offers insight into how learning everyday skills from cooking to technology can restore confidence, control, and connection.

Access isn’t always about sweeping change, it can be about the first moment you realize you can move forward again.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> My First Accessible Breakthrough: Embracing the Small Moments Ariana Noughira, Becki Zerr, Leanne Baarda, low vision, assistive technology, assistive devices, ILS, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, blind, tech, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 What’s the first moment when life after vision loss starts to feel possible again? Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the small, powerful breakthroughs that reshape independence, the moments that may look ordinary from the outside but carry deep emotional weight for the people experiencing them. Through firsthand stories, Ariana Noughira shares what it meant to regain confidence with her guide dog by her side. Becki Zerr reflects on how losing her vision forced her to reimagine parenting, identity, and daily life. And Leanne Baarda, an Independent Living Skills Specialist with Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, offers insight into how learning everyday skills from cooking to technology can restore confidence, control, and connection. Access isn’t always about sweeping change, it can be about the first moment you realize you can move forward again. What’s the first moment when life after vision loss starts to feel possible again? Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores the small, powerful breakthroughs that reshape independence, the moments that may look ordinary from the outside but carry deep emotional weight for the people experiencing them. Through firsthand stories, Ariana Noughira shares what it meant to regain confidence with her guide dog by her side. Becki Zerr reflects on how losing her vision forced her to reimagine parenting, identity, and daily life. And Leanne Baarda, an Independent Living Skills Specialist with Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, offers insight into how learning everyday skills from cooking to technology can restore confidence, control, and connection. Access isn’t always about sweeping change, it can be about the first moment you realize you can move forward again. false full 59 1 3d30c8a7-dd62-4a74-a6ec-46d92114ba50 The Disability Memoir: Stories That Make a Difference The memoir genre is booming, disability memoirs specifically. But what makes these books so entertaining, informative, powerful, or groundbreaking? Is it pressure from publishers? Or is it the translation of a person's lived experience into a digestible, easy-to-read format?

Andreae Callanan is a writer and researcher who studies neurodiversity and the disability memoir. Andreae provides her perspective on what disability memoirs can bring to the literary industry. 

Dorothy Ellen Palmer is an author of the memoir “Falling for Myself” and she shares why she wrote her memoir, and the compromises and sacrifices she had to make to write the memoir in the most accurate way. 

Listen to Joeita Gupta’s conversation with Andreae and Dorothy to find out how authors can balance sharing the joyous moments of their lives while also being critical of the systems that exclude people with disabilities. 

Plus, Karen McKay the Communications Manager at the Centre for Equitable Library Access, will provide some of CELA’s top memoir picks from their collection. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:18:15 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Andreae Callanan, Dorothy Ellen Palmer, Karen McKay, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-disability-memoir-stories-that-make-a-difference-eqNGEmMI The memoir genre is booming, disability memoirs specifically. But what makes these books so entertaining, informative, powerful, or groundbreaking? Is it pressure from publishers? Or is it the translation of a person's lived experience into a digestible, easy-to-read format?

Andreae Callanan is a writer and researcher who studies neurodiversity and the disability memoir. Andreae provides her perspective on what disability memoirs can bring to the literary industry. 

Dorothy Ellen Palmer is an author of the memoir “Falling for Myself” and she shares why she wrote her memoir, and the compromises and sacrifices she had to make to write the memoir in the most accurate way. 

Listen to Joeita Gupta’s conversation with Andreae and Dorothy to find out how authors can balance sharing the joyous moments of their lives while also being critical of the systems that exclude people with disabilities. 

Plus, Karen McKay the Communications Manager at the Centre for Equitable Library Access, will provide some of CELA’s top memoir picks from their collection. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Disability Memoir: Stories That Make a Difference Andreae Callanan, Dorothy Ellen Palmer, Karen McKay, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 The memoir genre is booming, disability memoirs specifically. But what makes these books so entertaining, informative, powerful, or groundbreaking? Is it pressure from publishers? Or is it the translation of a person's lived experience into a digestible, easy-to-read format? Andreae Callanan is a writer and researcher who studies neurodiversity and the disability memoir. Andreae provides her perspective on what disability memoirs can bring to the literary industry. Dorothy Ellen Palmer is an author of the memoir “Falling for Myself” and she shares why she wrote her memoir, and the compromises and sacrifices she had to make to write the memoir in the most accurate way. Listen to Joeita Gupta’s conversation with Andreae and Dorothy to find out how authors can balance sharing the joyous moments of their lives while also being critical of the systems that exclude people with disabilities. Plus, Karen McKay the Communications Manager at the Centre for Equitable Library Access, will provide some of CELA’s top memoir picks from their collection. The memoir genre is booming, disability memoirs specifically. But what makes these books so entertaining, informative, powerful, or groundbreaking? Is it pressure from publishers? Or is it the translation of a person's lived experience into a digestible, easy-to-read format? Andreae Callanan is a writer and researcher who studies neurodiversity and the disability memoir. Andreae provides her perspective on what disability memoirs can bring to the literary industry. Dorothy Ellen Palmer is an author of the memoir “Falling for Myself” and she shares why she wrote her memoir, and the compromises and sacrifices she had to make to write the memoir in the most accurate way. Listen to Joeita Gupta’s conversation with Andreae and Dorothy to find out how authors can balance sharing the joyous moments of their lives while also being critical of the systems that exclude people with disabilities. Plus, Karen McKay the Communications Manager at the Centre for Equitable Library Access, will provide some of CELA’s top memoir picks from their collection. books, literature, advocate, audio book, biography, disability, audiobook, autobiography false full 58 1 44677380-fc54-4444-8929-814f4dc4900c The Smart Home: Benefit or Barrier? Grant Hardy is joined by tech experts Shaun Preece, Andy Baryer, and John Biehler to compare and contrast the benefits of the smart home with the perils of planned obsolescence and tech troubleshooting. Let's figure out if the smart home is really worth it.

Andy Baryer from Handy Andy Media shares what he’s most excited about in his smart home for 2025, as well as his thoughts on futureproofing. Double Tap Host Sean Preece provides his own thoughts and experiences from an accessibility perspective. AMI Friend and Tech Contributor John Biehler reflects on some of the impact that planned obsolescence had on his household, and his thoughts on mitigating it.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Andy Baryer, Grant Hardy, Shaun Preece, John Biehler, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-smart-home-benefit-or-barrier-UkzYC9O2 Grant Hardy is joined by tech experts Shaun Preece, Andy Baryer, and John Biehler to compare and contrast the benefits of the smart home with the perils of planned obsolescence and tech troubleshooting. Let's figure out if the smart home is really worth it.

Andy Baryer from Handy Andy Media shares what he’s most excited about in his smart home for 2025, as well as his thoughts on futureproofing. Double Tap Host Sean Preece provides his own thoughts and experiences from an accessibility perspective. AMI Friend and Tech Contributor John Biehler reflects on some of the impact that planned obsolescence had on his household, and his thoughts on mitigating it.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Smart Home: Benefit or Barrier? Andy Baryer, Grant Hardy, Shaun Preece, John Biehler, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Grant Hardy is joined by tech experts Shaun Preece, Andy Baryer, and John Biehler to compare and contrast the benefits of the smart home with the perils of planned obsolescence and tech troubleshooting. Let's figure out if the smart home is really worth it. Andy Baryer from Handy Andy Media shares what he’s most excited about in his smart home for 2025, as well as his thoughts on futureproofing. Double Tap Host Sean Preece provides his own thoughts and experiences from an accessibility perspective. AMI Friend and Tech Contributor John Biehler reflects on some of the impact that planned obsolescence had on his household, and his thoughts on mitigating it. Grant Hardy is joined by tech experts Shaun Preece, Andy Baryer, and John Biehler to compare and contrast the benefits of the smart home with the perils of planned obsolescence and tech troubleshooting. Let's figure out if the smart home is really worth it. Andy Baryer from Handy Andy Media shares what he’s most excited about in his smart home for 2025, as well as his thoughts on futureproofing. Double Tap Host Sean Preece provides his own thoughts and experiences from an accessibility perspective. AMI Friend and Tech Contributor John Biehler reflects on some of the impact that planned obsolescence had on his household, and his thoughts on mitigating it. thermostat, google, artificial intelligence, ai products, smart speaker, video doorbell, nest, echo, apps, alexa, smart lights, smart integration, ai false full 57 1 dbab56e8-2099-4866-8dba-6c591c4f37cc Are Older Workers More Costly: Let's Dispell the Myths Thu, 8 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/are-older-workers-more-costly-lets-dispell-the-myths-Ciroj9qf Are Older Workers More Costly: Let's Dispell the Myths Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Are older employees in the workforce wrongfully keeping work away from young people who are fresh out of school? Is AI taking over older workers' jobs first? Are aging employees too expensive to keep around? Let's get to the bottom of these questions. Kelly MacDonald speaks with Lisa Taylor, Founder and CEO of Challenge Factory, a Canadian research and advisory firm focused on the future of work, dedicated to career services for older workers. She, along with Project Coordinator Jennifer St.Denis and Research Associate Emily Carew, gives us the decades of research-backed answers to our questions and teaches us what we can learn from older employees in the workforce. Michael French, National Director at Robert Half Canada, gives us the trending patterns, statistics, and market research around the current state of employment in Canada, helping us place our bets on where things are headed this year and into the future. Are older employees in the workforce wrongfully keeping work away from young people who are fresh out of school? Is AI taking over older workers' jobs first? Are aging employees too expensive to keep around? Let's get to the bottom of these questions. Kelly MacDonald speaks with Lisa Taylor, Founder and CEO of Challenge Factory, a Canadian research and advisory firm focused on the future of work, dedicated to career services for older workers. She, along with Project Coordinator Jennifer St.Denis and Research Associate Emily Carew, gives us the decades of research-backed answers to our questions and teaches us what we can learn from older employees in the workforce. Michael French, National Director at Robert Half Canada, gives us the trending patterns, statistics, and market research around the current state of employment in Canada, helping us place our bets on where things are headed this year and into the future. emily carew, older workers, the talent revolution, neet rates, generative ai, pension systems, michael french, reflections podcast, youth unemployment, let's dispell the myths, ageism, older employees in the workforce, jennifer st denis, longevity, workplace culture, career development, training and upskilling, are older workers more costly, reskilling, retirement age, labour market canada, future of work, ai in the workplace, career conversations, credential inflation, robert half canada, intergenerational workplace, workforce myths, challenge factory, lisa taylor false full 56 1 7712be04-aba7-42f5-bcb6-53e01672e099 BO and Beyond: The Shared Responsibilities of Personal Hygiene Wed, 7 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/bo-and-beyond-the-shared-responsibilities-of-personal-hygiene-H5BAtMYA BO and Beyond: The Shared Responsibilities of Personal Hygiene Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid 00:26:58 From crowded buses and train stations to classrooms, gyms, and healthcare settings, we’re constantly negotiating hygiene in shared spaces. Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores how to approach the tricky conversations of hygiene, addressing environment, expectation, and access. Kindergarten teacher Melinda Morbi shares how hygiene is introduced early in classrooms and how those messages can follow us into adulthood. Cardio and kickboxing instructor Noura Sadek reflects on fitness spaces where sweat is expected, and how fitness culture shapes ideas of cleanliness and confidence. Ada Juristovski, co-founder and CEO of Nala Care, compares health choices like antiperspirants versus deodorants, while registered nurse Leslie Depoe discusses hygiene standards in healthcare settings and their impact on care and comfort. We ask where the line lies between private choice and public responsibility when it comes to hygiene in shared spaces. From crowded buses and train stations to classrooms, gyms, and healthcare settings, we’re constantly negotiating hygiene in shared spaces. Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores how to approach the tricky conversations of hygiene, addressing environment, expectation, and access. Kindergarten teacher Melinda Morbi shares how hygiene is introduced early in classrooms and how those messages can follow us into adulthood. Cardio and kickboxing instructor Noura Sadek reflects on fitness spaces where sweat is expected, and how fitness culture shapes ideas of cleanliness and confidence. Ada Juristovski, co-founder and CEO of Nala Care, compares health choices like antiperspirants versus deodorants, while registered nurse Leslie Depoe discusses hygiene standards in healthcare settings and their impact on care and comfort. We ask where the line lies between private choice and public responsibility when it comes to hygiene in shared spaces. handwashing, leslie depoe, embarrassment, personal hygiene, reflections, public health, deodorant, gym hygiene, hospital hygiene protocols, courtesy, pandemic, public hygiene, noura sadek, infection prevention, body odour, shared spaces, shame, hygiene etiquette, ada juristovski jemc, immunocompromised, bo and beyond, kindergarten hygiene education, antiperspirant, social contract, sweat, melinda morbi false full 55 1 dd6dec67-4bf0-4ff4-94d0-1f77fdb67102 Is There a Blind Culture? Exploring the Tensions of Community, Blind Pride, and Identity What are some of the common touchstones in the blind community?  Do they create a shared sense of culture? Joeita Gupta was curious and decided to invite some of the smartest people she knows to share their input on whether a blind culture exists.

Joined by Andrew Leland, Barbara Pierce, Marcia Yale, and Michelle McQuigge, Joeita will explore the shared traits among the blind community, the stigma surrounding people living with disability, and whether a shared feeling of culture is directly responsible for feeling more blind pride. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 6 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Barbara Pierce, Marcia Yale, Ramya Amuthan, Michelle McQuigge, Joeita Gupta, Andrew Leland) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/is-there-a-blind-culture-exploring-the-tensions-of-community-blind-pride-and-identity-EPxU_iZm What are some of the common touchstones in the blind community?  Do they create a shared sense of culture? Joeita Gupta was curious and decided to invite some of the smartest people she knows to share their input on whether a blind culture exists.

Joined by Andrew Leland, Barbara Pierce, Marcia Yale, and Michelle McQuigge, Joeita will explore the shared traits among the blind community, the stigma surrounding people living with disability, and whether a shared feeling of culture is directly responsible for feeling more blind pride. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Is There a Blind Culture? Exploring the Tensions of Community, Blind Pride, and Identity Barbara Pierce, Marcia Yale, Ramya Amuthan, Michelle McQuigge, Joeita Gupta, Andrew Leland 00:28:00 What are some of the common touchstones in the blind community? Do they create a shared sense of culture? Joeita Gupta was curious and decided to invite some of the smartest people she knows to share their input on whether a blind culture exists. Joined by Andrew Leland, Barbara Pierce, Marcia Yale, and Michelle McQuigge, Joeita will explore the shared traits among the blind community, the stigma surrounding people living with disability, and whether a shared feeling of culture is directly responsible for feeling more blind pride. What are some of the common touchstones in the blind community? Do they create a shared sense of culture? Joeita Gupta was curious and decided to invite some of the smartest people she knows to share their input on whether a blind culture exists. Joined by Andrew Leland, Barbara Pierce, Marcia Yale, and Michelle McQuigge, Joeita will explore the shared traits among the blind community, the stigma surrounding people living with disability, and whether a shared feeling of culture is directly responsible for feeling more blind pride. community, low vision, culture, vision loss, deaf culture, blind, sight loss, partially sighted false full 54 1 dd6ce5b4-d884-43e3-8f66-f71f8542a886 Unwrapping Christmas: The Gift That Stayed With You Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/unwrapping-christmas-the-gift-that-stayed-with-you-4r6iQ7Gs Unwrapping Christmas: The Gift That Stayed With You Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:25:30 To put a bow on 2025, Kelly MacDonald gathered stories about the unwrapped gifts that have stayed with us, in memory and impact. ESPN and Sportsnet's Dan Shulman nudges us about the gifts of advice and the giving of time. Artist Lucas Haneman remembers how just one gift lead to a lifetime of blessings. Angela Bonfanti, President and CEO of CNIB, shares how her childhood attempts to run away from home began teaching her some of the best lessons on advocacy. An array of guests remind us how thoughtful moments of kindness can have ever-lasting effects on those who receive them, and we may never even know the impacts. To put a bow on 2025, Kelly MacDonald gathered stories about the unwrapped gifts that have stayed with us, in memory and impact. ESPN and Sportsnet's Dan Shulman nudges us about the gifts of advice and the giving of time. Artist Lucas Haneman remembers how just one gift lead to a lifetime of blessings. Angela Bonfanti, President and CEO of CNIB, shares how her childhood attempts to run away from home began teaching her some of the best lessons on advocacy. An array of guests remind us how thoughtful moments of kindness can have ever-lasting effects on those who receive them, and we may never even know the impacts. reflections ami, meaningful gifts, time as a gift, melanie marsden, kelly macdonald, accessibility community, lasting impact, michael french, holiday storytelling, gratitude and giving, christmas reflections, dan shulman, amanda shekarchi, family traditions, disability lived experience, margrett weldon, advice as a gift, angela bonfanti, kindness and impact, gifts beyond material, music and memory, advocacy lessons, lucas haneman, david errington, personal storytelling, marcia yale, beth deer, jacob shymanski, holiday memories false full 53 1 4b463a64-9c11-47c6-8ac4-b66aa39f1c8e The Amplify Course: Voice Work Made Accessible for Neurodivergent Youth Grant Hardy introduces us to the Mayday Club’s Amplify: Sound, Voice, and Radio course that took place this fall, in partnership with Disability Alliance BC. The sixteen-week course provided neurodivergent youth with hands-on experience in the fields of voice acting and radio hosting, including the opportunity to create an original radio series.

Nicole Provost, the Founder of Mayday Club, shares what Mayday Club is: a grassroots initiative to empower neurodivergent youth by providing employment, leadership and travel opportunities. She also tells us about the Amplify Course and its impact on participants.

Students Joey Lim and Liam Cooper speak about their experience in the Amplify course, as well as share a sneak-peak of the radio episodes they created.

Jason Simpson with On the Mic Voice Training has over two decades of studio experience spanning commercials, animated series, films, and video games. He was an instructor for the Amplify course, and chats with us about his experience and takeaways.

The students' produced mini-series airs on CIVL Radio this spring; the first episode, an original drama, airs on December 25th.

To keep up with Mayday Club and find out more about the Amplify course, visit https://maydayclub.ca/amplify/.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Nicole Provost, Joey Lim, Liam Cooper, Jason Simpson, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-amplify-course-voice-work-made-accessible-for-neurodivergent-youth-RIGrjQPK Grant Hardy introduces us to the Mayday Club’s Amplify: Sound, Voice, and Radio course that took place this fall, in partnership with Disability Alliance BC. The sixteen-week course provided neurodivergent youth with hands-on experience in the fields of voice acting and radio hosting, including the opportunity to create an original radio series.

Nicole Provost, the Founder of Mayday Club, shares what Mayday Club is: a grassroots initiative to empower neurodivergent youth by providing employment, leadership and travel opportunities. She also tells us about the Amplify Course and its impact on participants.

Students Joey Lim and Liam Cooper speak about their experience in the Amplify course, as well as share a sneak-peak of the radio episodes they created.

Jason Simpson with On the Mic Voice Training has over two decades of studio experience spanning commercials, animated series, films, and video games. He was an instructor for the Amplify course, and chats with us about his experience and takeaways.

The students' produced mini-series airs on CIVL Radio this spring; the first episode, an original drama, airs on December 25th.

To keep up with Mayday Club and find out more about the Amplify course, visit https://maydayclub.ca/amplify/.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Amplify Course: Voice Work Made Accessible for Neurodivergent Youth Nicole Provost, Joey Lim, Liam Cooper, Jason Simpson, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy 00:28:00 Grant Hardy introduces us to the Mayday Club’s Amplify: Sound, Voice, and Radio course that took place this fall, in partnership with Disability Alliance BC. The sixteen-week course provided neurodivergent youth with hands-on experience in the fields of voice acting and radio hosting, including the opportunity to create an original radio series. Nicole Provost, the Founder of Mayday Club, shares what Mayday Club is: a grassroots initiative to empower neurodivergent youth by providing employment, leadership and travel opportunities. She also tells us about the Amplify Course and its impact on participants. Students Joey Lim and Liam Cooper speak about their experience in the Amplify course, as well as share a sneak-peak of the radio episodes they created. Jason Simpson with On the Mic Voice Training has over two decades of studio experience spanning commercials, animated series, films, and video games. He was an instructor for the Amplify course, and chats with us about his experience and takeaways. The students' produced mini-series airs on CIVL Radio this spring; the first episode, an original drama, airs on December 25th. To keep up with Mayday Club and find out more about the Amplify course, visit https://maydayclub.ca/amplify/. Grant Hardy introduces us to the Mayday Club’s Amplify: Sound, Voice, and Radio course that took place this fall, in partnership with Disability Alliance BC. The sixteen-week course provided neurodivergent youth with hands-on experience in the fields of voice acting and radio hosting, including the opportunity to create an original radio series. Nicole Provost, the Founder of Mayday Club, shares what Mayday Club is: a grassroots initiative to empower neurodivergent youth by providing employment, leadership and travel opportunities. She also tells us about the Amplify Course and its impact on participants. Students Joey Lim and Liam Cooper speak about their experience in the Amplify course, as well as share a sneak-peak of the radio episodes they created. Jason Simpson with On the Mic Voice Training has over two decades of studio experience spanning commercials, animated series, films, and video games. He was an instructor for the Amplify course, and chats with us about his experience and takeaways. The students' produced mini-series airs on CIVL Radio this spring; the first episode, an original drama, airs on December 25th. To keep up with Mayday Club and find out more about the Amplify course, visit https://maydayclub.ca/amplify/. voice acting, vo, civl radio, autism, british columbia, voice over, mayday club, disability alliance bc, character acting, audio, on the mic voice training, radio, voiceover, adhd false full 52 1 66136c0b-0aa6-4e24-b3b2-a1f724049051 Already an Artist: Embracing the Spotlight Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/already-an-artist-embracing-the-spotlight-KpE5IwBd Already an Artist: Embracing the Spotlight AMI 00:25:00 For many artists, legitimacy is imagined as a single moment, when someone finally says, “you’re in.” This episode follows emerging indie pop artist Laura Ulmer as she confronts the music industry gate keeping, able-ism, and internalized self-doubt that kept her hovering on the fringes, despite her ever-growing talent and repertoire. Alongside music publicist Eric Alper, we ask who really gets to decide when an artist is “real,” and what changes when you stop waiting for permission from an industry that rarely expects artists with disabilities to succeed. For many artists, legitimacy is imagined as a single moment, when someone finally says, “you’re in.” This episode follows emerging indie pop artist Laura Ulmer as she confronts the music industry gate keeping, able-ism, and internalized self-doubt that kept her hovering on the fringes, despite her ever-growing talent and repertoire. Alongside music publicist Eric Alper, we ask who really gets to decide when an artist is “real,” and what changes when you stop waiting for permission from an industry that rarely expects artists with disabilities to succeed. already an artist, representation in music, embracing the spotlight, eric alper, lived experience, accessibility in the arts, ableism in music, pink wings album, reflections podcast, laura ulmer, emerging artists, artists with disabilities, artist legitimacy, self-belief, indie pop artist, disabled artists, canadian music, music industry gatekeeping false full 51 1 281b5016-31b3-48bc-b63e-35bc2905f0ac Is Free Postage for the Blind in Jeopardy: Explaining the Proposed Amendments Within Bill C-15 This past week proposed amendments to the Canada Post Corporation Act surfaced, and free postage for literature for the blind could be removed. Joeita Gupta heard the alarming news and noticed how deeply it was affecting people in her close circles. Joeita is inviting you to listen to this episode of Reflections to find out why these amendments are so concerning, how you can use your voice to support the cause, and the lasting impacts a change like this could have.  

Jeffrey Rainey of Braille Literacy Canada will share his severe concern for the future literacy of blind Canadians if these amendments are made, and Canada Post takes action.  

What is the process for these amendments to be appealed? Brian Klunder of Temple Scott Associates is going to tell us all we need to know about how a bill is read in the House of Commons and the Senate.  

CELA, the Centre for Equitable Library Access is taking these potential amendments incredibly seriously, as it could threaten their ability to serve clients. CELA’s Executive Director Laurie Davidson joins us to share her take on these proposed changes to Bill C-15.  

Diane Bergeron is the CNIB’s Head of International Partnerships, and she will explain how these proposed amendments could also impact Canada’s international obligations in the United Postal Union Convention.  

Plus, we’ll hear from Canada Post and the office of Minister Joel Lightbound, Minister for Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement through statements provided to Joeita, and read by Reflections Feature Reporter Nisreen Abdel-Majid.  

If you would like to send a letter to your local Member of Parliament, you can use CELA’s template available here.

 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/is-free-postage-for-the-blind-in-jeopardy-explaining-the-proposed-amendments-within-bill-c-15-QDa0tjjN This past week proposed amendments to the Canada Post Corporation Act surfaced, and free postage for literature for the blind could be removed. Joeita Gupta heard the alarming news and noticed how deeply it was affecting people in her close circles. Joeita is inviting you to listen to this episode of Reflections to find out why these amendments are so concerning, how you can use your voice to support the cause, and the lasting impacts a change like this could have.  

Jeffrey Rainey of Braille Literacy Canada will share his severe concern for the future literacy of blind Canadians if these amendments are made, and Canada Post takes action.  

What is the process for these amendments to be appealed? Brian Klunder of Temple Scott Associates is going to tell us all we need to know about how a bill is read in the House of Commons and the Senate.  

CELA, the Centre for Equitable Library Access is taking these potential amendments incredibly seriously, as it could threaten their ability to serve clients. CELA’s Executive Director Laurie Davidson joins us to share her take on these proposed changes to Bill C-15.  

Diane Bergeron is the CNIB’s Head of International Partnerships, and she will explain how these proposed amendments could also impact Canada’s international obligations in the United Postal Union Convention.  

Plus, we’ll hear from Canada Post and the office of Minister Joel Lightbound, Minister for Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement through statements provided to Joeita, and read by Reflections Feature Reporter Nisreen Abdel-Majid.  

If you would like to send a letter to your local Member of Parliament, you can use CELA’s template available here.

 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Is Free Postage for the Blind in Jeopardy: Explaining the Proposed Amendments Within Bill C-15 AMI 00:28:00 This past week proposed amendments to the Canada Post Corporation Act surfaced, and free postage for literature for the blind could be removed. Joeita Gupta heard the alarming news and noticed how deeply it was affecting people in her close circles. Joeita is inviting you to listen to this episode of Reflections to find out why these amendments are so concerning, how you can use your voice to support the cause, and the lasting impacts a change like this could have. Jeffrey Rainey of Braille Literacy Canada will share his severe concern for the future literacy of blind Canadians if these amendments are made, and Canada Post takes action. What is the process for these amendments to be appealed? Brian Klunder of Temple Scott Associates is going to tell us all we need to know about how a bill is read in the House of Commons and the Senate. CELA, the Centre for Equitable Library Access is taking these potential amendments incredibly seriously, as it could threaten their ability to serve clients. CELA’s Executive Director Laurie Davidson joins us to share her take on these proposed changes to Bill C-15. Diane Bergeron is the CNIB’s Head of International Partnerships, and she will explain how these proposed amendments could also impact Canada’s international obligations in the United Postal Union Convention. Plus, we’ll hear from Canada Post and the office of Minister Joel Lightbound, Minister for Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement through statements provided to Joeita, and read by Reflections Feature Reporter Nisreen Abdel-Majid. If you would like to send a letter to your local Member of Parliament, you can use CELA’s template available here: https://celalibrary.ca/media/769 This past week proposed amendments to the Canada Post Corporation Act surfaced, and free postage for literature for the blind could be removed. Joeita Gupta heard the alarming news and noticed how deeply it was affecting people in her close circles. Joeita is inviting you to listen to this episode of Reflections to find out why these amendments are so concerning, how you can use your voice to support the cause, and the lasting impacts a change like this could have. Jeffrey Rainey of Braille Literacy Canada will share his severe concern for the future literacy of blind Canadians if these amendments are made, and Canada Post takes action. What is the process for these amendments to be appealed? Brian Klunder of Temple Scott Associates is going to tell us all we need to know about how a bill is read in the House of Commons and the Senate. CELA, the Centre for Equitable Library Access is taking these potential amendments incredibly seriously, as it could threaten their ability to serve clients. CELA’s Executive Director Laurie Davidson joins us to share her take on these proposed changes to Bill C-15. Diane Bergeron is the CNIB’s Head of International Partnerships, and she will explain how these proposed amendments could also impact Canada’s international obligations in the United Postal Union Convention. Plus, we’ll hear from Canada Post and the office of Minister Joel Lightbound, Minister for Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement through statements provided to Joeita, and read by Reflections Feature Reporter Nisreen Abdel-Majid. If you would like to send a letter to your local Member of Parliament, you can use CELA’s template available here: https://celalibrary.ca/media/769 false full 50 1 4c1c5264-cd0b-43ef-bdab-914b4ac7388f Kidfluencing: Creators Beware You can become a celebrity overnight and make money online, at a price, of course. And what’s that price when you’re a minor? Let’s find out the realities of becoming a kid influencer.

When you’re not yet legally an adult, being a star can bring danger. The Ivey Business School at Western University conducted a study on “kidfluencing,” and we learn what they discovered with Lead Research Professor Daniel Clark, covering rights, consent, exploitation, and the gray areas and pitfalls of parenting kid influencers.

Gabby Mendonca shares how freedom of expression can be compromised, drawing on her own experiences as a social media influencer and a person living with disability.

John Melville, Vice President of Content Development and Operations at AMI, helps us tie together the pieces of online influencing—from making content to making money off content.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Daniel Clark, Gabby Mendonca, John Melville, Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/kidfluencing-creators-beware-w_4V6zWL You can become a celebrity overnight and make money online, at a price, of course. And what’s that price when you’re a minor? Let’s find out the realities of becoming a kid influencer.

When you’re not yet legally an adult, being a star can bring danger. The Ivey Business School at Western University conducted a study on “kidfluencing,” and we learn what they discovered with Lead Research Professor Daniel Clark, covering rights, consent, exploitation, and the gray areas and pitfalls of parenting kid influencers.

Gabby Mendonca shares how freedom of expression can be compromised, drawing on her own experiences as a social media influencer and a person living with disability.

John Melville, Vice President of Content Development and Operations at AMI, helps us tie together the pieces of online influencing—from making content to making money off content.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Kidfluencing: Creators Beware Daniel Clark, Gabby Mendonca, John Melville, Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:26:30 You can become a celebrity overnight and make money online, at a price, of course. And what’s that price when you’re a minor? Let’s find out the realities of becoming a kid influencer. When you’re not yet legally an adult, being a star can bring danger. The Ivey Business School at Western University conducted a study on “kidfluencing,” and we learn what they discovered with Lead Research Professor Daniel Clark, covering rights, consent, exploitation, and the gray areas and pitfalls of parenting kid influencers. Gabby Mendonca shares how freedom of expression can be compromised, drawing on her own experiences as a social media influencer and a person living with disability. John Melville, Vice President of Content Development and Operations at AMI, helps us tie together the pieces of online influencing—from making content to making money off content. You can become a celebrity overnight and make money online, at a price, of course. And what’s that price when you’re a minor? Let’s find out the realities of becoming a kid influencer. When you’re not yet legally an adult, being a star can bring danger. The Ivey Business School at Western University conducted a study on “kidfluencing,” and we learn what they discovered with Lead Research Professor Daniel Clark, covering rights, consent, exploitation, and the gray areas and pitfalls of parenting kid influencers. Gabby Mendonca shares how freedom of expression can be compromised, drawing on her own experiences as a social media influencer and a person living with disability. John Melville, Vice President of Content Development and Operations at AMI, helps us tie together the pieces of online influencing—from making content to making money off content. social media, tiktok, employment, instagram, content creator, children, kids, influencer, youtube false full 49 1 3bf57687-eeb0-49c2-b3e5-b03a56f2bf9d Making Spirits Bright: How to Host an Accessible Holiday Party Holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends, family, coworkers, and your community. But how do hosts ensure that whether they’re in a grand banquet hall or trying to squeeze a few more chairs around their own dinner table, they’re creating an accessible space for everybody? 

From washrooms to festive attire, holiday lights to food allergies, join Joeita Gupta to find out how you or your organization can host an accessible gathering at any time in the year.

Rosemarie Rosetti provides accessibility consultations through her business Rosetti Enterprises LLC. and has tips for making your home physically accessible ahead of your holiday party. For the corporate holiday gathering, Trish Kelly from Untapped Accessibility explains what organizers can do to create a party with tailored spaces and activities for their attendees. Plus, Rosemarie and Trish will weigh in on how to move things along socially to take some pressure off guests at your event.  

How about the home cook? How can they make their holiday party preparations a little less stressful, and safe for everyone? Renee Rentmeester, Executive Producer of the Cooking Without Looking TV Show and podcast, will share how she prepares cookies, candy, and allergy-safe environments for her friends and family. Plus, Joeita wants to know what do you do if you burn your dessert? 

We hope you have a safe, accessible, and festive holiday season, whatever way you celebrate! Happy Holidays from AMI-audio!

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Rosemarie Rosetti, Trish Kelly, Renee Rentmeester, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/making-spirits-bright-how-to-host-an-accessible-holiday-party-iQrfIsDm Holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends, family, coworkers, and your community. But how do hosts ensure that whether they’re in a grand banquet hall or trying to squeeze a few more chairs around their own dinner table, they’re creating an accessible space for everybody? 

From washrooms to festive attire, holiday lights to food allergies, join Joeita Gupta to find out how you or your organization can host an accessible gathering at any time in the year.

Rosemarie Rosetti provides accessibility consultations through her business Rosetti Enterprises LLC. and has tips for making your home physically accessible ahead of your holiday party. For the corporate holiday gathering, Trish Kelly from Untapped Accessibility explains what organizers can do to create a party with tailored spaces and activities for their attendees. Plus, Rosemarie and Trish will weigh in on how to move things along socially to take some pressure off guests at your event.  

How about the home cook? How can they make their holiday party preparations a little less stressful, and safe for everyone? Renee Rentmeester, Executive Producer of the Cooking Without Looking TV Show and podcast, will share how she prepares cookies, candy, and allergy-safe environments for her friends and family. Plus, Joeita wants to know what do you do if you burn your dessert? 

We hope you have a safe, accessible, and festive holiday season, whatever way you celebrate! Happy Holidays from AMI-audio!

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Making Spirits Bright: How to Host an Accessible Holiday Party Rosemarie Rosetti, Trish Kelly, Renee Rentmeester, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta 00:28:00 Holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends, family, coworkers, and your community. But how do hosts ensure that whether they’re in a grand banquet hall or trying to squeeze a few more chairs around their own dinner table, they’re creating an accessible space for everybody? From washrooms to festive attire, holiday lights to food allergies, join Joeita Gupta to find out how you or your organization can host an accessible gathering at any time in the year. Rosemarie Rosetti provides accessibility consultations through her business Rosetti Enterprises LLC. and has tips for making your home physically accessible ahead of your holiday party. For the corporate holiday gathering, Trish Kelly from Untapped Accessibility explains what organizers can do to create a party with tailored spaces and activities for their attendees. Plus, Rosemarie and Trish will weigh in on how to move things along socially to take some pressure off guests at your event. How about the home cook? How can they make their holiday party preparations a little less stressful, and safe for everyone? Renee Rentmeester, Executive Producer of the Cooking Without Looking TV Show and podcast, will share how she prepares cookies, candy, and allergy-safe environments for her friends and family. Plus, Joeita wants to know what do you do if you burn your dessert? We hope you have a safe, accessible, and festive holiday season, whatever way you celebrate! Happy Holidays from AMI-audio! Holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends, family, coworkers, and your community. But how do hosts ensure that whether they’re in a grand banquet hall or trying to squeeze a few more chairs around their own dinner table, they’re creating an accessible space for everybody? From washrooms to festive attire, holiday lights to food allergies, join Joeita Gupta to find out how you or your organization can host an accessible gathering at any time in the year. Rosemarie Rosetti provides accessibility consultations through her business Rosetti Enterprises LLC. and has tips for making your home physically accessible ahead of your holiday party. For the corporate holiday gathering, Trish Kelly from Untapped Accessibility explains what organizers can do to create a party with tailored spaces and activities for their attendees. Plus, Rosemarie and Trish will weigh in on how to move things along socially to take some pressure off guests at your event. How about the home cook? How can they make their holiday party preparations a little less stressful, and safe for everyone? Renee Rentmeester, Executive Producer of the Cooking Without Looking TV Show and podcast, will share how she prepares cookies, candy, and allergy-safe environments for her friends and family. Plus, Joeita wants to know what do you do if you burn your dessert? We hope you have a safe, accessible, and festive holiday season, whatever way you celebrate! Happy Holidays from AMI-audio! hanukkah, festive, gathering, tips and tricks, baking, christmas, party, celebrations, festivities, tips, accessibility, recipes, cooking false full 48 1 f7a2c1c0-f4d0-4d7b-813e-0613a634381a Multi-Sensory Art: Reimagining What's Possible Grant Hardy explores how artists are going beyond the visual, reimagining how we experience art in diverse and multisensory forms.

Violinist Leslie Ting's show, What Brings You In, in partnership with Theatre Passe-Muraille, is centred around the nonvisual experience for the audience, inviting people to participate in unique, auditory ways.

Nonvisual, social practice artist Carmen Papalia shares details on his multisensory art projects, such as the Weather Warlock, which transforms the weather into soothing soundscapes; and describes his accessible navigation experience using a marching band.

We also hear from Gagan Saran, a blind Indo-Canadian emerging artist and Writer, about how her work is challenging assumptions surrounding art and accessibility.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 9 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Leslie Ting, Carmen Papalia, Gagan Saran, Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/multi-sensory-art-reimagining-whats-possible-Frj5DtHq Grant Hardy explores how artists are going beyond the visual, reimagining how we experience art in diverse and multisensory forms.

Violinist Leslie Ting's show, What Brings You In, in partnership with Theatre Passe-Muraille, is centred around the nonvisual experience for the audience, inviting people to participate in unique, auditory ways.

Nonvisual, social practice artist Carmen Papalia shares details on his multisensory art projects, such as the Weather Warlock, which transforms the weather into soothing soundscapes; and describes his accessible navigation experience using a marching band.

We also hear from Gagan Saran, a blind Indo-Canadian emerging artist and Writer, about how her work is challenging assumptions surrounding art and accessibility.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Multi-Sensory Art: Reimagining What's Possible Leslie Ting, Carmen Papalia, Gagan Saran, Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Grant Hardy explores how artists are going beyond the visual, reimagining how we experience art in diverse and multisensory forms. Violinist Leslie Ting's show, What Brings You In, in partnership with Theatre Passe-Muraille, is centred around the nonvisual experience for the audience, inviting people to participate in unique, auditory ways. Nonvisual, social practice artist Carmen Papalia shares details on his multisensory art projects, such as the Weather Warlock, which transforms the weather into soothing soundscapes; and describes his accessible navigation experience using a marching band. We also hear from Gagan Saran, a blind Indo-Canadian emerging artist and Writer, about how her work is challenging assumptions surrounding art and accessibility. Grant Hardy explores how artists are going beyond the visual, reimagining how we experience art in diverse and multisensory forms. Violinist Leslie Ting's show, What Brings You In, in partnership with Theatre Passe-Muraille, is centred around the nonvisual experience for the audience, inviting people to participate in unique, auditory ways. Nonvisual, social practice artist Carmen Papalia shares details on his multisensory art projects, such as the Weather Warlock, which transforms the weather into soothing soundscapes; and describes his accessible navigation experience using a marching band. We also hear from Gagan Saran, a blind Indo-Canadian emerging artist and Writer, about how her work is challenging assumptions surrounding art and accessibility. performance, immersive art, visual arts, gallery, music, artist, art false full 47 1 88a51d50-5ded-455a-b8de-cfc6cc8a81ed Fighting and Focus: The Martial Arts Mindset Can martial arts traditions help people with disabilities take on the world more confidently? Let's continue to explore this question, while we learn about martial arts mindsets and philosophies.

Chris James is the Lead Instructor of the self defence workshops ran periodically at Balance for Blind Adults in Toronto. He, along with Kathleen Wilson and Mags Storey, share how they approach teaching blind and low vision participants self-defence techniques.

We hear from Clement Chou, who introduces us to Aikido, a martial arts practice that he took on as a blind person, after some experimenting and exploring to find the right fit for him.

And Johnny Tai, founder of Night Strike Self-Defence in Richmond, BC, is back. He teaches us what he's learned about martial arts through his years of teaching, learning, and appreciating what these practices and traditions has to offer.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/fighting-and-focus-the-martial-arts-mindset-AHwuTJSA Can martial arts traditions help people with disabilities take on the world more confidently? Let's continue to explore this question, while we learn about martial arts mindsets and philosophies.

Chris James is the Lead Instructor of the self defence workshops ran periodically at Balance for Blind Adults in Toronto. He, along with Kathleen Wilson and Mags Storey, share how they approach teaching blind and low vision participants self-defence techniques.

We hear from Clement Chou, who introduces us to Aikido, a martial arts practice that he took on as a blind person, after some experimenting and exploring to find the right fit for him.

And Johnny Tai, founder of Night Strike Self-Defence in Richmond, BC, is back. He teaches us what he's learned about martial arts through his years of teaching, learning, and appreciating what these practices and traditions has to offer.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fighting and Focus: The Martial Arts Mindset AMI 00:24:20 false full 46 1 e48dcfdd-215a-4dd5-9cc2-ff2ad082c8d1 Chronic Pain: How can we support people who live with it? - Part 2 In Part 2 of this series, Grant Hardy digs a bit deeper into what is being done to treat chronic pain, and asks how people living with chronic pain can re-train their brains to lessen the impact of pain on their lives.

Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis, authors of the book The Pain Project, are back to recount the tactics they’ve used to distract Simon’s brain in real-time when he's experiencing pain flare ups.

Dr. Andrea Furlan returns to highlight some of the techniques she is using with her patients who live with chronic pain.  She also shares some success stories of people whose lives have completely turned around after treatment.  Dr. Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 4 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Simon Paradis, Dr. Andrea Furlan, Ramya Amuthan, Kara Stanley, Grant Hardy) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/chronic-pain-how-can-we-support-people-who-live-with-it-part-2-OWXQSGid In Part 2 of this series, Grant Hardy digs a bit deeper into what is being done to treat chronic pain, and asks how people living with chronic pain can re-train their brains to lessen the impact of pain on their lives.

Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis, authors of the book The Pain Project, are back to recount the tactics they’ve used to distract Simon’s brain in real-time when he's experiencing pain flare ups.

Dr. Andrea Furlan returns to highlight some of the techniques she is using with her patients who live with chronic pain.  She also shares some success stories of people whose lives have completely turned around after treatment.  Dr. Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chronic Pain: How can we support people who live with it? - Part 2 Simon Paradis, Dr. Andrea Furlan, Ramya Amuthan, Kara Stanley, Grant Hardy 00:28:00 In Part 2 of this series, Grant Hardy digs a bit deeper into what is being done to treat chronic pain, and asks how people living with chronic pain can re-train their brains to lessen the impact of pain on their lives. Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis, authors of the book The Pain Project, are back to recount the tactics they’ve used to distract Simon’s brain in real-time when he's experiencing pain flare ups. Dr. Andrea Furlan returns to highlight some of the techniques she is using with her patients who live with chronic pain. She also shares some success stories of people whose lives have completely turned around after treatment. Dr. Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management. In Part 2 of this series, Grant Hardy digs a bit deeper into what is being done to treat chronic pain, and asks how people living with chronic pain can re-train their brains to lessen the impact of pain on their lives. Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis, authors of the book The Pain Project, are back to recount the tactics they’ve used to distract Simon’s brain in real-time when he's experiencing pain flare ups. Dr. Andrea Furlan returns to highlight some of the techniques she is using with her patients who live with chronic pain. She also shares some success stories of people whose lives have completely turned around after treatment. Dr. Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management. research, health, disability, pain killers, chronic pain, treatment, wellness, medical false full 45 1 5c96ec2c-3541-4da0-b850-36cd062039de Towards a World With Zero Barriers: Recognizing 2026 Zero Project Awardees The Zero Project works alongside the UN community to spotlight and scale innovations that advance the goals of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. On December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, it releases a list of award solutions toward its goal: a world with zero barriers.  The full list is at zeroproject.org

AMI-audio Manager Andy Frank spotlights three of these award recipients on this episode.

Kevin Kelly, tells us about the Wayfinding Centre in Dublin, which empowers people and possibility through experience, mobility & transportation.

David Betts was recently diagnosed with ALS and set to work on creating Talk To Me, Goose. We learn about this text-to-speech and AI-assisted communication approach.

Becca Hume, Founder of TapSOS, shares how this app is making emergency outreach accessible for the Deaf and hard of hearing community, and much more.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 3 Dec 2025 15:08:56 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/towards-a-world-with-zero-barriers-recognizing-2026-zero-project-awardees-LT87tcBa The Zero Project works alongside the UN community to spotlight and scale innovations that advance the goals of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. On December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, it releases a list of award solutions toward its goal: a world with zero barriers.  The full list is at zeroproject.org

AMI-audio Manager Andy Frank spotlights three of these award recipients on this episode.

Kevin Kelly, tells us about the Wayfinding Centre in Dublin, which empowers people and possibility through experience, mobility & transportation.

David Betts was recently diagnosed with ALS and set to work on creating Talk To Me, Goose. We learn about this text-to-speech and AI-assisted communication approach.

Becca Hume, Founder of TapSOS, shares how this app is making emergency outreach accessible for the Deaf and hard of hearing community, and much more.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Towards a World With Zero Barriers: Recognizing 2026 Zero Project Awardees AMI 00:28:00 The Zero Project works alongside the UN community to spotlight and scale innovations that advance the goals of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. On December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, it releases a list of award solutions toward its goal: a world with zero barriers. The full list is at zeroproject.org AMI-audio Manager Andy Frank spotlights three of these award recipients on this episode. Kevin Kelly, tells us about the Wayfinding Centre in Dublin, which empowers people and possibility through experience, mobility & transportation. David Betts was recently diagnosed with ALS and set to work on creating Talk To Me, Goose. We learn about this text-to-speech and AI-assisted communication approach. Becca Hume, Founder of TapSOS, shares how this app is making emergency outreach accessible for the Deaf and hard of hearing community, and much more. The Zero Project works alongside the UN community to spotlight and scale innovations that advance the goals of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. On December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, it releases a list of award solutions toward its goal: a world with zero barriers. The full list is at zeroproject.org AMI-audio Manager Andy Frank spotlights three of these award recipients on this episode. Kevin Kelly, tells us about the Wayfinding Centre in Dublin, which empowers people and possibility through experience, mobility & transportation. David Betts was recently diagnosed with ALS and set to work on creating Talk To Me, Goose. We learn about this text-to-speech and AI-assisted communication approach. Becca Hume, Founder of TapSOS, shares how this app is making emergency outreach accessible for the Deaf and hard of hearing community, and much more. false full 44 1 27d7b582-bdd3-4faa-a34b-d0d69cf9dd7b The Launch of Vision Health Canada: A new venture to keep our eyes on Tue, 2 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-launch-of-vision-health-canada-a-new-venture-to-keep-our-eyes-on-IczeRbp8 The Launch of Vision Health Canada: A new venture to keep our eyes on Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:24:23 At Vision Health Canada (VHC), their work is unified under the guiding theme: One Voice. Clear Focus. Collective Action. They aim to collaborate with government, industry, clinicians, researchers, and community partners to establish a unified national approach to vision health. In this roundtable discussion, Kelly MacDonald introduces us to Jim Sanders, Director at VHC; Ian White, Chair of the VHC Board; and Michael Baillargeon, CEO and President of VHC At Vision Health Canada (VHC), their work is unified under the guiding theme: One Voice. Clear Focus. Collective Action. They aim to collaborate with government, industry, clinicians, researchers, and community partners to establish a unified national approach to vision health. In this roundtable discussion, Kelly MacDonald introduces us to Jim Sanders, Director at VHC; Ian White, Chair of the VHC Board; and Michael Baillargeon, CEO and President of VHC quantitative research policy, jim sanders, peer support blindness, ian white, eye exam access, kelly macdonald, vision loss prevention, blindness rehabilitation, rehabilitation services, ccb toronto visionaries, vision health canada, vhc launch, national eye care strategy, michael baillargeon, ramya amuthan, myopia epidemic, bill c-284, eye health research, assistive technologies, advocacy vision health false full 43 1 d2cfc63f-2e27-4638-9391-435fedc59363 Chronic Pain: How can we support people who live with it? - Part 1 Grant Hardy hears from individuals living with chronic pain about their experiences, struggles, and how they are working to move forward.

Couple Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis published their book, “The Pain Project,” that documents their journey of Simon’s chronic pain after a traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Simon’s band is called “Them Ordinary Things”. We speak about “The Pain Project” as well as the hopes and struggles of this couple’s journey and how Simon uses music to get through his pain.

Ardra Shephard is a long-time friend of AMI and host of the “Tripping On Air” podcast. She joins us to discuss her journey with multiple sclerosis, as well as her thoughts on how couples can navigate a diagnosis like MS together.

Dr. Andrea Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management. She joins us to provide her medical perspective on chronic pain.

Join us for the first of a two-part series on navigating the hopes, struggles, and important conversations surrounding chronic pain.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kara Stanley, Paradis, Dr. Andrea Furlan, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Ardra Shephard) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/chronic-pain-how-can-we-support-people-who-live-with-it-part-1-PWzhMvVD Grant Hardy hears from individuals living with chronic pain about their experiences, struggles, and how they are working to move forward.

Couple Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis published their book, “The Pain Project,” that documents their journey of Simon’s chronic pain after a traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Simon’s band is called “Them Ordinary Things”. We speak about “The Pain Project” as well as the hopes and struggles of this couple’s journey and how Simon uses music to get through his pain.

Ardra Shephard is a long-time friend of AMI and host of the “Tripping On Air” podcast. She joins us to discuss her journey with multiple sclerosis, as well as her thoughts on how couples can navigate a diagnosis like MS together.

Dr. Andrea Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management. She joins us to provide her medical perspective on chronic pain.

Join us for the first of a two-part series on navigating the hopes, struggles, and important conversations surrounding chronic pain.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chronic Pain: How can we support people who live with it? - Part 1 Kara Stanley, Paradis, Dr. Andrea Furlan, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Ardra Shephard 00:27:30 Grant Hardy hears from individuals living with chronic pain about their experiences, struggles, and how they are working to move forward. Couple Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis published their book, “The Pain Project,” that documents their journey of Simon’s chronic pain after a traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Simon’s band is called “Them Ordinary Things”. We speak about “The Pain Project” as well as the hopes and struggles of this couple’s journey and how Simon uses music to get through his pain. Ardra Shephard is a long-time friend of AMI and host of the “Tripping On Air” podcast. She joins us to discuss her journey with multiple sclerosis, as well as her thoughts on how couples can navigate a diagnosis like MS together. Dr. Andrea Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management. She joins us to provide her medical perspective on chronic pain. Join us for the first of a two-part series on navigating the hopes, struggles, and important conversations surrounding chronic pain. Grant Hardy hears from individuals living with chronic pain about their experiences, struggles, and how they are working to move forward. Couple Kara Stanley and Simon Paradis published their book, “The Pain Project,” that documents their journey of Simon’s chronic pain after a traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Simon’s band is called “Them Ordinary Things”. We speak about “The Pain Project” as well as the hopes and struggles of this couple’s journey and how Simon uses music to get through his pain. Ardra Shephard is a long-time friend of AMI and host of the “Tripping On Air” podcast. She joins us to discuss her journey with multiple sclerosis, as well as her thoughts on how couples can navigate a diagnosis like MS together. Dr. Andrea Furlan is a Physician at Toronto Rehab Hospital, a Scientist at KITE Research Institute – University Health Network Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at University of Toronto. Her YouTube channel provides awareness and education about chronic pain management. She joins us to provide her medical perspective on chronic pain. Join us for the first of a two-part series on navigating the hopes, struggles, and important conversations surrounding chronic pain. research, relationships, health, pain killers, chronic pain, wellness, medical false full 42 1 9bbe94d9-e289-42ef-a49c-3f80af1d3335 Fighting and Focus: Self-Defence in the Real World Thu, 27 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/fighting-and-focus-self-defence-in-the-real-world-L5AD13B0 Fighting and Focus: Self-Defence in the Real World Ramya Amuthan 00:24:48 We know the fears and anxieties that come with navigating the streets on our own, being out late in unfamiliar areas, or moving through public transit systems. Let’s talk honestly about those realities, and figure out safety, strategy, and self-defence. Samira Lavei and Lindsay McCaw run the Unbreakable Women’s Self-Defence series in Toronto; they share practical self-defence tips and emphasize the importance of coming together as a community for safety in numbers. Can martial arts traditions help people with disabilities take on the world more confidently? Johnny Tai, founder of Night Strike Self-Defence in Richmond, BC, shares how he adapts his thinking, teaching, and problem-solving to address specific vulnerabilities faced by people with disabilities. We know the fears and anxieties that come with navigating the streets on our own, being out late in unfamiliar areas, or moving through public transit systems. Let’s talk honestly about those realities, and figure out safety, strategy, and self-defence. Samira Lavei and Lindsay McCaw run the Unbreakable Women’s Self-Defence series in Toronto; they share practical self-defence tips and emphasize the importance of coming together as a community for safety in numbers. Can martial arts traditions help people with disabilities take on the world more confidently? Johnny Tai, founder of Night Strike Self-Defence in Richmond, BC, shares how he adapts his thinking, teaching, and problem-solving to address specific vulnerabilities faced by people with disabilities. samira lavei, violence prevention, johnny tai, fight flight freeze, fear management, jujutsu, community safety, street safety, night strike self-defence, women's safety, safety strategies, boundaries and autonomy, lindsay mccaw, unbreakable workshop, public transit safety, confidence building, martial arts, situational awareness, self-defence, self-defence for disabilities false full 41 1 d6a7cf0b-2ee3-4f6a-baa4-a30b0f8ba8da YouDescribe: Do I hear what you see? Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/youdescribe-do-i-hear-what-you-see-6WiI5Rat YouDescribe: Do I hear what you see? Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:27:30 In 2025, video content offers vital access to information, but making videos accessible to blind and low-vision audiences is still a work in progress. Let's figure out where exactly we are in the grand scheme of things. Kelly MacDonald introduces us to Joshua Miele’s project YouDescribe, a free, crowdsourced platform that allows people to add audio description tracks to YouTube videos. We hear from the community bringing this initiative to life, including Ilmi Yoon, Teaching Professor and Director of Computing Programs at Northeastern University; Lana Do, Research Assistant; Dr. Shasta Marie Ihorn, Associate Professor of Psychology at San Francisco State University; and Tanja Milojevic, who contributes consultation on quality control and feedback for YouDescribe. We also grab insights from Christopher Patnoe, Lead for EMEA Accessibility & Disability Innovation at Google, for perspectives on the state of audio description, the role AI plays in all this, and how creative, user-centered innovations like YouDescribe support greater access for the blind and low-vision community. In 2025, video content offers vital access to information, but making videos accessible to blind and low-vision audiences is still a work in progress. Let's figure out where exactly we are in the grand scheme of things. Kelly MacDonald introduces us to Joshua Miele’s project YouDescribe, a free, crowdsourced platform that allows people to add audio description tracks to YouTube videos. We hear from the community bringing this initiative to life, including Ilmi Yoon, Teaching Professor and Director of Computing Programs at Northeastern University; Lana Do, Research Assistant; Dr. Shasta Marie Ihorn, Associate Professor of Psychology at San Francisco State University; and Tanja Milojevic, who contributes consultation on quality control and feedback for YouDescribe. We also grab insights from Christopher Patnoe, Lead for EMEA Accessibility & Disability Innovation at Google, for perspectives on the state of audio description, the role AI plays in all this, and how creative, user-centered innovations like YouDescribe support greater access for the blind and low-vision community. christopher patnoe, volunteer describers, blind community perspectives, joshua miele, accessible video, ai-generated description, accessibility research, google accessibility, human-in-the-loop accessibility, northeastern university, blind and low vision, user-centered design, audio description, multimodal ai, digital inclusion, youdescribe, san francisco state university, crowdsourced description, youtube accessibility, quality control in ad false full 40 1 b6cbdd77-c5e0-4494-b6a1-40e5c55d6af4 Who’s Hungry: Exploring Food Insecurity in Canada Food bank visits in the City of Toronto have increased by 340% since 2019, and across Canada food bank visits are rising. Why is this happening? How can we help?

Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta set out to find an answer for us. While it may not be as straightforward as we would like, there are still things we can do to support our fellow Canadians during a time when putting food on our tables is getting increasingly more difficult, and impossible for some.

Rose Butler, Interim Vice President of Research and Advocacy at the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto shares some of the most recent statistics from the food bank and tells us how the Daily Bread Food Bank ensures its visitors receive balanced, nutritional meal support. 

Dr. Jessica Agnew is the Associate Director of the Global office in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Dr. Agnew is also the Managing Editor of the Global Agricultural Productivity Support and explains how supply chains can impact food insecurity in Canada. 

Pauline Cripps is the Community Food Lead at the Arrell Food Institute at the University of Guelph. She has almost a decade of experience working in food banks and teaches us about what a resilient food system is. 

To get involved with or receive assistance from the Daily Bread Food Bank you can visit their website here: www.dailybread.ca

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/whos-hungry-exploring-food-insecurity-in-canada-vMTzThPO Food bank visits in the City of Toronto have increased by 340% since 2019, and across Canada food bank visits are rising. Why is this happening? How can we help?

Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta set out to find an answer for us. While it may not be as straightforward as we would like, there are still things we can do to support our fellow Canadians during a time when putting food on our tables is getting increasingly more difficult, and impossible for some.

Rose Butler, Interim Vice President of Research and Advocacy at the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto shares some of the most recent statistics from the food bank and tells us how the Daily Bread Food Bank ensures its visitors receive balanced, nutritional meal support. 

Dr. Jessica Agnew is the Associate Director of the Global office in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Dr. Agnew is also the Managing Editor of the Global Agricultural Productivity Support and explains how supply chains can impact food insecurity in Canada. 

Pauline Cripps is the Community Food Lead at the Arrell Food Institute at the University of Guelph. She has almost a decade of experience working in food banks and teaches us about what a resilient food system is. 

To get involved with or receive assistance from the Daily Bread Food Bank you can visit their website here: www.dailybread.ca

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Who’s Hungry: Exploring Food Insecurity in Canada AMI 00:28:00 Food bank visits in the City of Toronto have increased by 340% since 2019, and across Canada food bank visits are rising. Why is this happening? How can we help? Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta set out to find an answer for us. While it may not be as straightforward as we would like, there are still things we can do to support our fellow Canadians during a time when putting food on our tables is getting increasingly more difficult, and impossible for some. Rose Butler, Interim Vice President of Research and Advocacy at the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto shares some of the most recent statistics from the food bank and tells us how the Daily Bread Food Bank ensures its visitors receive balanced, nutritional meal support. Dr. Jessica Agnew is the Associate Director of the Global office in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Dr. Agnew is also the Managing Editor of the Global Agricultural Productivity Support and explains how supply chains can impact food insecurity in Canada. Pauline Cripps is the Community Food Lead at the Arrell Food Institute at the University of Guelph. She has almost a decade of experience working in food banks and teaches us about what a resilient food system is. To get involved with or receive assistance from the Daily Bread Food Bank you can visit their website here: www.dailybread.ca Food bank visits in the City of Toronto have increased by 340% since 2019, and across Canada food bank visits are rising. Why is this happening? How can we help? Feature Reporter Joeita Gupta set out to find an answer for us. While it may not be as straightforward as we would like, there are still things we can do to support our fellow Canadians during a time when putting food on our tables is getting increasingly more difficult, and impossible for some. Rose Butler, Interim Vice President of Research and Advocacy at the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto shares some of the most recent statistics from the food bank and tells us how the Daily Bread Food Bank ensures its visitors receive balanced, nutritional meal support. Dr. Jessica Agnew is the Associate Director of the Global office in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Dr. Agnew is also the Managing Editor of the Global Agricultural Productivity Support and explains how supply chains can impact food insecurity in Canada. Pauline Cripps is the Community Food Lead at the Arrell Food Institute at the University of Guelph. She has almost a decade of experience working in food banks and teaches us about what a resilient food system is. To get involved with or receive assistance from the Daily Bread Food Bank you can visit their website here: www.dailybread.ca false full 39 1 f2489992-3106-4357-8578-a67e16c70dee Alzheimer's: The Tsunami to Come - The Conclusion Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:37:23 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/alzheimers-the-tsunami-to-come-the-conclusion-z9ncDNWP Alzheimer's: The Tsunami to Come - The Conclusion AMI 00:23:54 This episode features the conclusion to our special archive cut of AMI's documentary Alzheimer's: The Tsunami to Come as it originally aired in 2016. This episode features the conclusion to our special archive cut of AMI's documentary Alzheimer's: The Tsunami to Come as it originally aired in 2016. dementia in canada, camh geriatric psychiatry, alzheimer's disease, genetics and alzheimer's risk, caregiver burden, family caregiving, caregiver burnout and stress, alzheimer's society of canada, ami contact archives, dawn dickinson caregiving experience, long-term care crisis, aging baby boomer population, sunnybrook hospital dementia research, reflections alzheimer's special, national dementia strategy, vascular brain health and prevention false full 38 1 05d830de-62d9-49ab-bdd1-345885a48e37 Alzheimer's: The Tsunami to Come Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/alzheimers-the-tsunami-to-come-APgqWOsR Alzheimer's: The Tsunami to Come AMI 00:56:00 Few of us think of ourselves as caregivers, until the day we suddenly need to step up for a loved one. Sooner or later we will all either need a caregiver or become one. Are you ready for it? When that moment comes, families carry the burden long before a healthcare system that’s already stretched thin can catch up. Following our recent "Caregivers: A Very Personal Journey" episode, this special archive cut revisits AMI-audio’s 2016 documentary Alzheimer’s: The Tsunami to Come. It reminds us that while Canada eventually adopted the national dementia strategy caregivers were calling for, the everyday realities they face still mirror the stories we heard nearly ten years back. Few of us think of ourselves as caregivers, until the day we suddenly need to step up for a loved one. Sooner or later we will all either need a caregiver or become one. Are you ready for it? When that moment comes, families carry the burden long before a healthcare system that’s already stretched thin can catch up. Following our recent "Caregivers: A Very Personal Journey" episode, this special archive cut revisits AMI-audio’s 2016 documentary Alzheimer’s: The Tsunami to Come. It reminds us that while Canada eventually adopted the national dementia strategy caregivers were calling for, the everyday realities they face still mirror the stories we heard nearly ten years back. dementia in canada, mimi loey young, camh geriatric psychiatry, alzheimer's disease, genetics and alzheimer's risk, caregiver burden, family caregiving, caregiver burnout and stress, alzheimer's society of canada, dr. sandra black, dawn dickinson caregiving experience, long-term care crisis, karen harrington caregiver story, aging baby boomer population, sunnybrook hospital dementia research, reflections alzheimer's special, national dementia strategy, dr. tarek raji, vascular brain health and prevention false full 37 1 8beb0a43-11b4-47f6-8586-2301b281a8f1 Disabilities and STEM: How Can We Make Science More Accessible? - Part 2 Grant Hardy continues the exploration on how STEM learning can be made more accessible for persons with disabilities. In this episode, we highlight how individuals with disabilities bring unique perspectives to enhance scientific work and discovery.

Dr. Kyle Keane, Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, uses sonification to make visual elements and scientific data accessible; we find out how.

John Hutchinson, Professor of Evolutionary Biomechanics at The Royal Veterinary College, used his epilepsy diagnosis as a way to adapt his teachings and advocate for others with disabilities in STEM fields; he tells us about his collaborative approach.

Dr. Nick Bond is the Outreach and Public Engagement Fellow working in the Astronomy department at The University of Portsmouth; he highlights ways that a highly visual field, like Astronomy, can be adapted for the blind and low vision community.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (John Hutchinson, Dr. Nick Bond, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Dr. Kyle Keane) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/disabilities-and-stem-how-can-we-make-science-more-accessible-part-2-4HKIeV6Q Grant Hardy continues the exploration on how STEM learning can be made more accessible for persons with disabilities. In this episode, we highlight how individuals with disabilities bring unique perspectives to enhance scientific work and discovery.

Dr. Kyle Keane, Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, uses sonification to make visual elements and scientific data accessible; we find out how.

John Hutchinson, Professor of Evolutionary Biomechanics at The Royal Veterinary College, used his epilepsy diagnosis as a way to adapt his teachings and advocate for others with disabilities in STEM fields; he tells us about his collaborative approach.

Dr. Nick Bond is the Outreach and Public Engagement Fellow working in the Astronomy department at The University of Portsmouth; he highlights ways that a highly visual field, like Astronomy, can be adapted for the blind and low vision community.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Disabilities and STEM: How Can We Make Science More Accessible? - Part 2 John Hutchinson, Dr. Nick Bond, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Dr. Kyle Keane 00:28:00 Grant Hardy continues the exploration on how STEM learning can be made more accessible for persons with disabilities. In this episode, we highlight how individuals with disabilities bring unique perspectives to enhance scientific work and discovery. Dr. Kyle Keane, Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, uses sonification to make visual elements and scientific data accessible; we find out how. John Hutchinson, Professor of Evolutionary Biomechanics at The Royal Veterinary College, used his epilepsy diagnosis as a way to adapt his teachings and advocate for others with disabilities in STEM fields; he tells us about his collaborative approach. Dr. Nick Bond is the Outreach and Public Engagement Fellow working in the Astronomy department at The University of Portsmouth; he highlights ways that a highly visual field, like Astronomy, can be adapted for the blind and low vision community. Grant Hardy continues the exploration on how STEM learning can be made more accessible for persons with disabilities. In this episode, we highlight how individuals with disabilities bring unique perspectives to enhance scientific work and discovery. Dr. Kyle Keane, Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, uses sonification to make visual elements and scientific data accessible; we find out how. John Hutchinson, Professor of Evolutionary Biomechanics at The Royal Veterinary College, used his epilepsy diagnosis as a way to adapt his teachings and advocate for others with disabilities in STEM fields; he tells us about his collaborative approach. Dr. Nick Bond is the Outreach and Public Engagement Fellow working in the Astronomy department at The University of Portsmouth; he highlights ways that a highly visual field, like Astronomy, can be adapted for the blind and low vision community. inclusion, blind scientists, unique perspectives, science, mathematics, technology, engineering, keywords disabilities, accessibility, stem, diversity false full 36 1 f057d426-e4f5-4d87-9fc3-30a842450a88 How Do I Leave It Behind: Understanding Legacy Giving Tue, 18 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-do-i-leave-it-behind-understanding-legacy-giving-OSOdRjqy How Do I Leave It Behind: Understanding Legacy Giving Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:25:43 Talking about death isn’t a comfortable topic, but it can be comforting to plan it out ahead of time. Hear us out. Planning ahead not only ensures your wishes are respected, it also opens the door to meaningful discussions about legacy giving and the impact we want to leave behind. Kelly MacDonald spends this half-hour asking his guests to weigh in on this delicate conversation with clarity and care. We hear from Braydin Frizell, Development Manager with the Canadian Council for the Blind; Meghan Maack, Fundraising Executive at the Perley Health Foundation; David DaCamara, Financial Planner at R&D Insurance and Financial Services Ltd; and Grace Scoffield, Producer on Reflections who shares her personal experience working at her university’s call centre, asking alumni whether they’d consider including the school in their legacy giving. Talking about death isn’t a comfortable topic, but it can be comforting to plan it out ahead of time. Hear us out. Planning ahead not only ensures your wishes are respected, it also opens the door to meaningful discussions about legacy giving and the impact we want to leave behind. Kelly MacDonald spends this half-hour asking his guests to weigh in on this delicate conversation with clarity and care. We hear from Braydin Frizell, Development Manager with the Canadian Council for the Blind; Meghan Maack, Fundraising Executive at the Perley Health Foundation; David DaCamara, Financial Planner at R&D Insurance and Financial Services Ltd; and Grace Scoffield, Producer on Reflections who shares her personal experience working at her university’s call centre, asking alumni whether they’d consider including the school in their legacy giving. philanthropy, life insurance gifts, call centre fundraising, perley health foundation, estate planning, nonprofit fundraising, donor relationships, beneficiary planning, financial planning, grace scoffield, alumni fundraising, planned giving, succession planning, canadian council of the blind, death planning conversations, end-of-life planning, charitable impact, charitable bequests, wills and estates, legacy giving false full 35 1 eccd1f68-92ca-42b8-a718-66d4f889a4b4 The Anxiety of Small Talk: Why Simple Conversations Don’t Always Feel Simple For some of us, chatting about the weather or weekend plans comes easily, and for others it’s a source of stress and self-doubt. Why does something as ordinary as small talk spark such big feelings?

Nisreen Abdel-Majid gets to the bottom of small talk psychology.

Arslan Abakarov is a software developer at AMI who grew up in Russia where small talk is never the norm. Elysia Yardley lets us in on her perspectives on communication and connection, as someone who works in Human Resources at AMI, along with her tips navigating chit-chat at work. Dillon Lewchuk, Clinical Counsellor, Art Therapist, and Educator helps us get to the core of small talk, by unpacking the deeper emotional layers behind everyday interactions.

From cultural differences to social anxiety, let's figure out the complexities under surface conversations.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Dillon Lewchuk, Arslan Abakarov, Elysia Yardley, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-anxiety-of-small-talk-why-simple-conversations-dont-always-feel-simple-KdzcguIa For some of us, chatting about the weather or weekend plans comes easily, and for others it’s a source of stress and self-doubt. Why does something as ordinary as small talk spark such big feelings?

Nisreen Abdel-Majid gets to the bottom of small talk psychology.

Arslan Abakarov is a software developer at AMI who grew up in Russia where small talk is never the norm. Elysia Yardley lets us in on her perspectives on communication and connection, as someone who works in Human Resources at AMI, along with her tips navigating chit-chat at work. Dillon Lewchuk, Clinical Counsellor, Art Therapist, and Educator helps us get to the core of small talk, by unpacking the deeper emotional layers behind everyday interactions.

From cultural differences to social anxiety, let's figure out the complexities under surface conversations.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Anxiety of Small Talk: Why Simple Conversations Don’t Always Feel Simple Dillon Lewchuk, Arslan Abakarov, Elysia Yardley, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid 00:28:00 For some of us, chatting about the weather or weekend plans comes easily, and for others it’s a source of stress and self-doubt. Why does something as ordinary as small talk spark such big feelings? Nisreen Abdel-Majid gets to the bottom of small talk psychology. Arslan Abakarov is a software developer at AMI who grew up in Russia where small talk is never the norm. Elysia Yardley lets us in on her perspectives on communication and connection, as someone who works in Human Resources at AMI, along with her tips navigating chit-chat at work. Dillon Lewchuk, Clinical Counsellor, Art Therapist, and Educator helps us get to the core of small talk, by unpacking the deeper emotional layers behind everyday interactions. From cultural differences to social anxiety, let's figure out the complexities under surface conversations. For some of us, chatting about the weather or weekend plans comes easily, and for others it’s a source of stress and self-doubt. Why does something as ordinary as small talk spark such big feelings? Nisreen Abdel-Majid gets to the bottom of small talk psychology. Arslan Abakarov is a software developer at AMI who grew up in Russia where small talk is never the norm. Elysia Yardley lets us in on her perspectives on communication and connection, as someone who works in Human Resources at AMI, along with her tips navigating chit-chat at work. Dillon Lewchuk, Clinical Counsellor, Art Therapist, and Educator helps us get to the core of small talk, by unpacking the deeper emotional layers behind everyday interactions. From cultural differences to social anxiety, let's figure out the complexities under surface conversations. expectations, talking, conversation, psychology, dialogue, anxiety false full 34 1 0dae41bd-2e78-446e-aa76-4dc841b9db4c For the Love of Sport: Celebrating 50 Years of ASRAB Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/for-the-love-of-sport-celebrating-50-years-of-asrab-BmE_oXLQ For the Love of Sport: Celebrating 50 Years of ASRAB Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:28:00 The Alberta Sports & Recreation Association for the Blind supports Albertans who are blind or visually impaired to live physically active lives and participate in competitive sports programs. From Edmonton, Jim Krysko, AMI Content Development Specialist guides us on a delightful walk down memory lane. With the help of past Presidents Laura Layton, Jim Leask, Lorna Snow, and current President Chris Abdalla, we enjoy the history, laughs, and stories of this unique organization. Let’s celebrate five decades of momentum meets commitment, that has built and fostered this incredible force of ASRAB. The Alberta Sports & Recreation Association for the Blind supports Albertans who are blind or visually impaired to live physically active lives and participate in competitive sports programs. From Edmonton, Jim Krysko, AMI Content Development Specialist guides us on a delightful walk down memory lane. With the help of past Presidents Laura Layton, Jim Leask, Lorna Snow, and current President Chris Abdalla, we enjoy the history, laughs, and stories of this unique organization. Let’s celebrate five decades of momentum meets commitment, that has built and fostered this incredible force of ASRAB. asrab, adaptive sports, chris abdalla, volunteerism in sport, paralympic movement, kelly macdonald, sight night alberta, disability inclusion, 50th anniversary celebration, goalball, flaman foundation, ramya amuthan, adaptive fitness, blind hockey, jim krysko, laura layton, blind sports, accessible athletics, jim leask, inclusive recreation, alberta disability community, alberta sports and recreation association for the blind, lorna snow false full 33 1 3aad52bb-f4c6-4b0c-a214-528ad19bf019 Chosen Family: How to Make and Keep Friends Joeita Gupta was feeling lonely and embarked on a quest to find out how she can make friends and maintain these relationships at this stage of her life. To find some answers, Joeita is hosting a roundtable conversation with members of the Toronto Visionaries chapter of the Canadian Council for the Blind (CCB) and an expert in this field. Together with these voices, Joeita will discover new ways to make friends, important lessons in vulnerability, and she’ll gather some opinions on whether making friends outside of the blind and low vision community can be more challenging. 

Joeita is joined by Victoria Francis, Communications Coordinate for the CCB Toronto Visionaries, and Toronto Visionaries President Reg Sullivan with his wife Cathy. Joeita asks them how this chapter of the CCB addresses isolation and loneliness in the blind and low vision community. 

Plus, Joeita turns to an expert in Dr. Marisa G. Franco. Dr, Franco is a professor, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and an expert in attachment styles and making friends. Learn about how valuable vulnerability is in new platonic relationships, and about different attachment styles with Joeita and Dr. Franco.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 12 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Victoria Francis, Reg Sullivan, Cathy Sullivan, Dr. Marisa G. Franco, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/chosen-family-how-to-make-and-keep-friends-4Olcou_r Joeita Gupta was feeling lonely and embarked on a quest to find out how she can make friends and maintain these relationships at this stage of her life. To find some answers, Joeita is hosting a roundtable conversation with members of the Toronto Visionaries chapter of the Canadian Council for the Blind (CCB) and an expert in this field. Together with these voices, Joeita will discover new ways to make friends, important lessons in vulnerability, and she’ll gather some opinions on whether making friends outside of the blind and low vision community can be more challenging. 

Joeita is joined by Victoria Francis, Communications Coordinate for the CCB Toronto Visionaries, and Toronto Visionaries President Reg Sullivan with his wife Cathy. Joeita asks them how this chapter of the CCB addresses isolation and loneliness in the blind and low vision community. 

Plus, Joeita turns to an expert in Dr. Marisa G. Franco. Dr, Franco is a professor, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and an expert in attachment styles and making friends. Learn about how valuable vulnerability is in new platonic relationships, and about different attachment styles with Joeita and Dr. Franco.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chosen Family: How to Make and Keep Friends Victoria Francis, Reg Sullivan, Cathy Sullivan, Dr. Marisa G. Franco, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan 00:27:30 Joeita Gupta was feeling lonely and embarked on a quest to find out how she can make friends and maintain these relationships at this stage of her life. To find some answers, Joeita is hosting a roundtable conversation with members of the Toronto Visionaries chapter of the Canadian Council for the Blind (CCB) and an expert in this field. Together with these voices, Joeita will discover new ways to make friends, important lessons in vulnerability, and she’ll gather some opinions on whether making friends outside of the blind and low vision community can be more challenging. Joeita is joined by Victoria Francis, Communications Coordinate for the CCB Toronto Visionaries, and Toronto Visionaries President Reg Sullivan with his wife Cathy. Joeita asks them how this chapter of the CCB addresses isolation and loneliness in the blind and low vision community. Plus, Joeita turns to an expert in Dr. Marisa G. Franco. Dr, Franco is a professor, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and an expert in attachment styles and making friends. Learn about how valuable vulnerability is in new platonic relationships, and about different attachment styles with Joeita and Dr. Franco. Joeita Gupta was feeling lonely and embarked on a quest to find out how she can make friends and maintain these relationships at this stage of her life. To find some answers, Joeita is hosting a roundtable conversation with members of the Toronto Visionaries chapter of the Canadian Council for the Blind (CCB) and an expert in this field. Together with these voices, Joeita will discover new ways to make friends, important lessons in vulnerability, and she’ll gather some opinions on whether making friends outside of the blind and low vision community can be more challenging. Joeita is joined by Victoria Francis, Communications Coordinate for the CCB Toronto Visionaries, and Toronto Visionaries President Reg Sullivan with his wife Cathy. Joeita asks them how this chapter of the CCB addresses isolation and loneliness in the blind and low vision community. Plus, Joeita turns to an expert in Dr. Marisa G. Franco. Dr, Franco is a professor, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and an expert in attachment styles and making friends. Learn about how valuable vulnerability is in new platonic relationships, and about different attachment styles with Joeita and Dr. Franco. happiness, relationship, frienship, social, networking, loneliness, platonic false full 32 1 a43c2f58-a1d7-4d2f-9973-8eb08e742d5f In Flanders Fields: Honouring Remembrance Day in 2025 Each year on November 11th, Canada marks Remembrance Day. In this episode of Reflections, join Grant Hardy to learn about why Remembrance Day continues to be a crucial reminder to Canadians and how the next generations are continuing to teach the importance of Remembrance Day. 

Mike Ross reads the poem In Flanders Fields and shares how his grandfather passed the torch of Remembrance to him at a young age. 

Retired Master Corporal Wade Wick served two tours in Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, and he’ll tell us about how important the visual symbolism of wearing a poppy is. Plus, he shares why he wanted to serve his country. 

Nujma Bond is the Manager of Communications and National Spokesperson for The Royal Canadian Legion. Nujma explains how the funds raised from The Poppy Campaign support veterans. And she shares how Canadians can support and donate to the Legion’s efforts. 

Em Williams, Supervisor of Media Accessibility at AMI provides some audio description of The Remember Flanders memorial in Ottawa. 

Let’s listen to these stories of sacrifice, remembrance, and honour this Remembrance Day to remind ourselves of the reason we mark this important day in Canadian history.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Nujma Bond, Em Williams, Wade Wick, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Mike Ross) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/in-flanders-fields-honouring-remembrance-day-in-2025-1_7iLBMI Each year on November 11th, Canada marks Remembrance Day. In this episode of Reflections, join Grant Hardy to learn about why Remembrance Day continues to be a crucial reminder to Canadians and how the next generations are continuing to teach the importance of Remembrance Day. 

Mike Ross reads the poem In Flanders Fields and shares how his grandfather passed the torch of Remembrance to him at a young age. 

Retired Master Corporal Wade Wick served two tours in Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, and he’ll tell us about how important the visual symbolism of wearing a poppy is. Plus, he shares why he wanted to serve his country. 

Nujma Bond is the Manager of Communications and National Spokesperson for The Royal Canadian Legion. Nujma explains how the funds raised from The Poppy Campaign support veterans. And she shares how Canadians can support and donate to the Legion’s efforts. 

Em Williams, Supervisor of Media Accessibility at AMI provides some audio description of The Remember Flanders memorial in Ottawa. 

Let’s listen to these stories of sacrifice, remembrance, and honour this Remembrance Day to remind ourselves of the reason we mark this important day in Canadian history.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> In Flanders Fields: Honouring Remembrance Day in 2025 Nujma Bond, Em Williams, Wade Wick, Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy, Mike Ross 00:28:00 Each year on November 11th, Canada marks Remembrance Day. In this episode of Reflections, join Grant Hardy to learn about why Remembrance Day continues to be a crucial reminder to Canadians and how the next generations are continuing to teach the importance of Remembrance Day. Mike Ross reads the poem In Flanders Fields and shares how his grandfather passed the torch of Remembrance to him at a young age. Retired Master Corporal Wade Wick served two tours in Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, and he’ll tell us about how important the visual symbolism of wearing a poppy is. Plus, he shares why he wanted to serve his country. Nujma Bond is the Manager of Communications and National Spokesperson for The Royal Canadian Legion. Nujma explains how the funds raised from The Poppy Campaign support veterans. And she shares how Canadians can support and donate to the Legion’s efforts. Em Williams, Supervisor of Media Accessibility at AMI provides some audio description of The Brooding Soldier memorial in Belgium, and the Remember Flanders memorial in Ottawa. Let’s listen to these stories of sacrifice, remembrance, and honour this Remembrance Day to remind ourselves of the reason we mark this important day in Canadian history. Each year on November 11th, Canada marks Remembrance Day. In this episode of Reflections, join Grant Hardy to learn about why Remembrance Day continues to be a crucial reminder to Canadians and how the next generations are continuing to teach the importance of Remembrance Day. Mike Ross reads the poem In Flanders Fields and shares how his grandfather passed the torch of Remembrance to him at a young age. Retired Master Corporal Wade Wick served two tours in Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, and he’ll tell us about how important the visual symbolism of wearing a poppy is. Plus, he shares why he wanted to serve his country. Nujma Bond is the Manager of Communications and National Spokesperson for The Royal Canadian Legion. Nujma explains how the funds raised from The Poppy Campaign support veterans. And she shares how Canadians can support and donate to the Legion’s efforts. Em Williams, Supervisor of Media Accessibility at AMI provides some audio description of The Brooding Soldier memorial in Belgium, and the Remember Flanders memorial in Ottawa. Let’s listen to these stories of sacrifice, remembrance, and honour this Remembrance Day to remind ourselves of the reason we mark this important day in Canadian history. war, afganistan, canada, legion, ww1, conflict, wwii, history, military, ww2, veteran, canadian legion, veterans affairs, wwi false full 31 1 acdd6ab3-ce9f-4d88-800c-fac41b2e9723 Disabilities and STEM: How Can We Make Science More Accessible? - Part 1 How do we create opportunities for people with disabilities in STEM? This was a question that Grant Hardy couldn’t get off his mind. So, he’s inviting you to join him in conversation with scientists and program managers to find out how people with disabilities can feel welcome in the STEM fields.

Dr. Kyle Keane is a Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, who is partially sighted. Dr. Keane explains why he decided to pursue STEM, some of the attitudinal and tangible barriers he faced getting in, and how he created a place for himself in the field. 

Professor Mona Minkara is a Bioengineering Professor at Northeastern University. We learn more about Professor Minkara’s research, her journey through STEM, and how she’s carving a path for future scientists with disabilities. 

The UBC Geering Up Program runs summer camps and day camps that immerse children in the world of STEM, and they make sure their programs are accessible. Kaylin McLeod, Assistant Manager of the Camps, Clubs and Events Program shares how Geering Up ensures that children with and without disabilities can experience their STEM camps, and how UBC aims to provide children the opportunity to explore the spectrum of STEM.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Dr. Kyle Keane, Mona Minkara, Kaylin McLeod, Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/disabilities-and-stem-how-can-we-make-science-more-accessible-part-1-AU_lklux How do we create opportunities for people with disabilities in STEM? This was a question that Grant Hardy couldn’t get off his mind. So, he’s inviting you to join him in conversation with scientists and program managers to find out how people with disabilities can feel welcome in the STEM fields.

Dr. Kyle Keane is a Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, who is partially sighted. Dr. Keane explains why he decided to pursue STEM, some of the attitudinal and tangible barriers he faced getting in, and how he created a place for himself in the field. 

Professor Mona Minkara is a Bioengineering Professor at Northeastern University. We learn more about Professor Minkara’s research, her journey through STEM, and how she’s carving a path for future scientists with disabilities. 

The UBC Geering Up Program runs summer camps and day camps that immerse children in the world of STEM, and they make sure their programs are accessible. Kaylin McLeod, Assistant Manager of the Camps, Clubs and Events Program shares how Geering Up ensures that children with and without disabilities can experience their STEM camps, and how UBC aims to provide children the opportunity to explore the spectrum of STEM.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Disabilities and STEM: How Can We Make Science More Accessible? - Part 1 Dr. Kyle Keane, Mona Minkara, Kaylin McLeod, Grant Hardy, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 How do we create opportunities for people with disabilities in STEM? This was a question that Grant Hardy couldn’t get off his mind. So, he’s inviting you to join him in conversation with scientists and program managers to find out how people with disabilities can feel welcome in the STEM fields. Dr. Kyle Keane is a Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, who is partially sighted. Dr. Keane explains why he decided to pursue STEM, some of the attitudinal and tangible barriers he faced getting in, and how he created a place for himself in the field. Professor Mona Minkara is a Bioengineering Professor at Northeastern University. We learn more about Professor Minkara’s research, her journey through STEM, and how she’s carving a path for future scientists with disabilities. The UBC Geering Up Program runs summer camps and day camps that immerse children in the world of STEM, and they make sure their programs are accessible. Kaylin McLeod, Assistant Manager of the Camps, Clubs and Events Program shares how Geering Up ensures that children with and without disabilities can experience their STEM camps, and how UBC aims to provide children the opportunity to explore the spectrum of STEM. How do we create opportunities for people with disabilities in STEM? This was a question that Grant Hardy couldn’t get off his mind. So, he’s inviting you to join him in conversation with scientists and program managers to find out how people with disabilities can feel welcome in the STEM fields. Dr. Kyle Keane is a Senior Lecturer in Assistive Technologies at the University of Bristol, who is partially sighted. Dr. Keane explains why he decided to pursue STEM, some of the attitudinal and tangible barriers he faced getting in, and how he created a place for himself in the field. Professor Mona Minkara is a Bioengineering Professor at Northeastern University. We learn more about Professor Minkara’s research, her journey through STEM, and how she’s carving a path for future scientists with disabilities. The UBC Geering Up Program runs summer camps and day camps that immerse children in the world of STEM, and they make sure their programs are accessible. Kaylin McLeod, Assistant Manager of the Camps, Clubs and Events Program shares how Geering Up ensures that children with and without disabilities can experience their STEM camps, and how UBC aims to provide children the opportunity to explore the spectrum of STEM. science, education, research, technology, higher education, coding, computers, adaptive, tech false full 30 1 e4245035-c083-49d9-88da-a0718af661c1 Mystery of the Missing Hat: Lost and Found in Public Transit Have you ever left anything on the subway? At a coffee shop? On a bus? Have you frantically retraced your steps trying to find it? Almost everyone has a story of a lost item, and Joeita Gupta is on the case to find out what happens to these precious belongings.  

Join Joeita for a conversation with Amy Hanser, an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Columbia, about why we’re so attached to physical items and how utilizing lost and found services can actually have a positive effect on our economy and environment by giving lost items a second life.  

If you’ve ever lost something on the TTC, let Joeita introduce you to Ashley Cooke, Supervisor of the TTC’s Lost and Found Department. Ashley shares how the TTC handles forgotten objects, and their close relationship with Police Auctions Canada.  

Joeita shares a conversation with Mike Hyde, the owner of Police Auctions Canada to find out how the funds from these auctions go back into the community and can benefit lower income earners.  

So, maybe that hat you left on the TTC was given a new life. Or the random jacket on the bus seat across from you kept someone else warm that winter. Maybe the stress or sadness we feel for our lost items can be kept at bay, knowing that there’s teams of people, like Mike and Ashley, who are working to give them a new home.   

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 6 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/lost-and-found-LLyKSyyo Have you ever left anything on the subway? At a coffee shop? On a bus? Have you frantically retraced your steps trying to find it? Almost everyone has a story of a lost item, and Joeita Gupta is on the case to find out what happens to these precious belongings.  

Join Joeita for a conversation with Amy Hanser, an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Columbia, about why we’re so attached to physical items and how utilizing lost and found services can actually have a positive effect on our economy and environment by giving lost items a second life.  

If you’ve ever lost something on the TTC, let Joeita introduce you to Ashley Cooke, Supervisor of the TTC’s Lost and Found Department. Ashley shares how the TTC handles forgotten objects, and their close relationship with Police Auctions Canada.  

Joeita shares a conversation with Mike Hyde, the owner of Police Auctions Canada to find out how the funds from these auctions go back into the community and can benefit lower income earners.  

So, maybe that hat you left on the TTC was given a new life. Or the random jacket on the bus seat across from you kept someone else warm that winter. Maybe the stress or sadness we feel for our lost items can be kept at bay, knowing that there’s teams of people, like Mike and Ashley, who are working to give them a new home.   

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mystery of the Missing Hat: Lost and Found in Public Transit Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta 00:26:00 Have you ever left anything on the subway? At a coffee shop? On a bus? Have you frantically retraced your steps trying to find it? Almost everyone has a story of a lost item, and Joeita Gupta is on the case to find out what happens to these precious belongings. Join Joeita for a conversation with Amy Hanser, an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Columbia, about why we’re so attached to physical items and how utilizing lost and found services can actually have a positive effect on our economy and environment by giving lost items a second life. If you’ve ever lost something on the TTC, let Joeita introduce you to Ashley Cooke, Supervisor of the TTC’s Lost and Found Department. Ashley shares how the TTC handles forgotten objects, and their close relationship with Police Auctions Canada. Joeita shares a conversation with Mike Hyde, the owner of Police Auctions Canada to find out how the funds from these auctions go back into the community and can benefit lower income earners. So, maybe that hat you left on the TTC was given a new life. Or the random jacket on the bus seat across from you kept someone else warm that winter. Maybe the stress or sadness we feel for our lost items can be kept at bay, knowing that there’s teams of people, like Mike and Ashley, who are working to give them a new home. Have you ever left anything on the subway? At a coffee shop? On a bus? Have you frantically retraced your steps trying to find it? Almost everyone has a story of a lost item, and Joeita Gupta is on the case to find out what happens to these precious belongings. Join Joeita for a conversation with Amy Hanser, an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Columbia, about why we’re so attached to physical items and how utilizing lost and found services can actually have a positive effect on our economy and environment by giving lost items a second life. If you’ve ever lost something on the TTC, let Joeita introduce you to Ashley Cooke, Supervisor of the TTC’s Lost and Found Department. Ashley shares how the TTC handles forgotten objects, and their close relationship with Police Auctions Canada. Joeita shares a conversation with Mike Hyde, the owner of Police Auctions Canada to find out how the funds from these auctions go back into the community and can benefit lower income earners. So, maybe that hat you left on the TTC was given a new life. Or the random jacket on the bus seat across from you kept someone else warm that winter. Maybe the stress or sadness we feel for our lost items can be kept at bay, knowing that there’s teams of people, like Mike and Ashley, who are working to give them a new home. public transit, train, sale, subway, auctions, transit, ttc, bus, misplace false full 29 1 28d5a62d-8371-49da-a56b-046a6de39575 The First Sip: Rituals, Comfort, and the Coffee That Grounds Us Wed, 5 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-first-sip-rituals-comfort-and-the-coffee-that-grounds-us-zJw7IXew The First Sip: Rituals, Comfort, and the Coffee That Grounds Us AMI 00:25:11 Nisreen Abdel-Majid takes a closer look at our collective obsession with coffee, touching on the memories, moments, and connections a simple cup of joe can bring us. Andrika De Lanerolle was a barista in her formeer life, she shares what she’s learned from working behind the counter, and it's not just the difference between a Latte and Cappuccino. 'Coffee lovers' is an understatement to describe friends David Dennis and Aamer Khan. They describe the journeys they've taken with coffee, including experimental brews and questionable sips. Senior Producer Matt Agnew opens up about how coffee has become an unexpected ally in managing his life, beyond the focus we tend to turn to with our daily dose of caffeine. Coffee has deep roots in human ties, let's come together to understand it's magic. Nisreen Abdel-Majid takes a closer look at our collective obsession with coffee, touching on the memories, moments, and connections a simple cup of joe can bring us. Andrika De Lanerolle was a barista in her formeer life, she shares what she’s learned from working behind the counter, and it's not just the difference between a Latte and Cappuccino. 'Coffee lovers' is an understatement to describe friends David Dennis and Aamer Khan. They describe the journeys they've taken with coffee, including experimental brews and questionable sips. Senior Producer Matt Agnew opens up about how coffee has become an unexpected ally in managing his life, beyond the focus we tend to turn to with our daily dose of caffeine. Coffee has deep roots in human ties, let's come together to understand it's magic. nisreen abdel-majid, daily routines, andrika de lanerolle, comfort drinks, coffee culture, matt agnew, barista stories, aamer khan, community and connection, turkish coffee, reflections ami audio, rituals of comfort, andy frank, ramya amuthan, morning rituals, coffee addiction, adhd and coffee, caffeine and focus, david dennis, ethiopian coffee culture false full 28 1 6c20af42-1d49-4223-a5ac-2969ed8d39c3 Caregivers: A very personal journey Tue, 4 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/caregivers-a-very-personal-journey-FmBQgD6n Caregivers: A very personal journey Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Caregiving is a subject that touches all of us at one time or another, but we don't often focus in on the realities of it, so let's open up a frank conversation around caregiving, with Kelly MacDonald and his guests. Amy Coupal, CEO of the Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO), gives us the concerning statistic’s around lack of supports for caregivers, and where to find helpful resources. Susan Palijan and Carla Velastegui, two individuals with their own caregiving journeys, offer us vulnerable perspectives into their experiences and what they've learned along the way. Whether it's children looking after aging parents, neighbours checking in on the elderly in their community, or hired support for people with disabilities, life brings us together through caregiving, and here's a chance to hear the stories of the people taking care of us. Caregiving is a subject that touches all of us at one time or another, but we don't often focus in on the realities of it, so let's open up a frank conversation around caregiving, with Kelly MacDonald and his guests. Amy Coupal, CEO of the Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO), gives us the concerning statistic’s around lack of supports for caregivers, and where to find helpful resources. Susan Palijan and Carla Velastegui, two individuals with their own caregiving journeys, offer us vulnerable perspectives into their experiences and what they've learned along the way. Whether it's children looking after aging parents, neighbours checking in on the elderly in their community, or hired support for people with disabilities, life brings us together through caregiving, and here's a chance to hear the stories of the people taking care of us. carla velastegui, healthcare advocacy, mental health, kelly macdonald, peer support, caregivers, reflections podcast, caregiving, family caregiving, community care, disability support, ramya amuthan, burnout, preparing to care report, caregiver resources, ontario caregiver organization, susan palijan, amy coupal, emotional labour, aging parents false full 27 1 0d770b2c-bfc1-4184-b187-6d511661b58c The Pressure of High Performance: Canada's First Women's Blind Soccer Team at the 2025 Worlds Canada’s first National Women’s Blind Soccer Team headed to Kochi, India for the 2025 IBSA Women's Blind Football World Championships, marking a memorable and surreal moment for the sport on this side of the world, and for everyone who helped build it from the ground up. We hear the sounds and stories captured over 13 days of travel, competition, and team-building. Going from grassroots to inernational competition took this group undeniable strength and sacrifice on and off the field, and we find out how it all came together for Team Canada.

 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-pressure-of-high-performance-canadas-first-womens-blind-soccer-team-at-the-2025-worlds-dwMFRLCH Canada’s first National Women’s Blind Soccer Team headed to Kochi, India for the 2025 IBSA Women's Blind Football World Championships, marking a memorable and surreal moment for the sport on this side of the world, and for everyone who helped build it from the ground up. We hear the sounds and stories captured over 13 days of travel, competition, and team-building. Going from grassroots to inernational competition took this group undeniable strength and sacrifice on and off the field, and we find out how it all came together for Team Canada.

 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Pressure of High Performance: Canada's First Women's Blind Soccer Team at the 2025 Worlds AMI 00:28:00 Canada’s first National Women’s Blind Soccer Team headed to Kochi, India for the 2025 IBSA Women's Blind Football World Championships, marking a memorable and surreal moment for the sport on this side of the world, and for everyone who helped build it from the ground up. We hear the sounds and stories captured over 13 days of travel, competition, and team-building. Going from grassroots to international competition took this group undeniable strength and sacrifice on and off the field, and we find out how it all came together for Team Canada. Canada’s first National Women’s Blind Soccer Team headed to Kochi, India for the 2025 IBSA Women's Blind Football World Championships, marking a memorable and surreal moment for the sport on this side of the world, and for everyone who helped build it from the ground up. We hear the sounds and stories captured over 13 days of travel, competition, and team-building. Going from grassroots to international competition took this group undeniable strength and sacrifice on and off the field, and we find out how it all came together for Team Canada. false full 26 1 0278aee9-f93f-4133-a934-4f9b46db556a Scarlette’s Palette: Rethinking Accessibility in Makeup Makeup is often seen as a language of self-expression but what happens when that world isn’t built for you? For World Sight Day, the Shine Foundation teamed up with Indigenous-owned Cheekbone Beauty to create Scarlette’s Palette, the first-ever tactile makeup palette designed for blind and low-vision users.

Nisreen Abdel-Majid learns how a 14-year-old girl’s dream became a movement for inclusive design. In this roundtable conversation with Shine Foundation CEO Tiffany Houston, Cheekbone Beauty founder Jenn Harper, and Scarlette herself, we ask, what can accessible beauty feel like, and how can we get there one product at a time?

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/scarlettes-palette-rethinking-accessibility-in-makeup-zr_yYFCR Makeup is often seen as a language of self-expression but what happens when that world isn’t built for you? For World Sight Day, the Shine Foundation teamed up with Indigenous-owned Cheekbone Beauty to create Scarlette’s Palette, the first-ever tactile makeup palette designed for blind and low-vision users.

Nisreen Abdel-Majid learns how a 14-year-old girl’s dream became a movement for inclusive design. In this roundtable conversation with Shine Foundation CEO Tiffany Houston, Cheekbone Beauty founder Jenn Harper, and Scarlette herself, we ask, what can accessible beauty feel like, and how can we get there one product at a time?

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Scarlette’s Palette: Rethinking Accessibility in Makeup AMI 00:28:00 Makeup is often seen as a language of self-expression but what happens when that world isn’t built for you? For World Sight Day, the Shine Foundation teamed up with Indigenous-owned Cheekbone Beauty to create Scarlette’s Palette, the first-ever tactile makeup palette designed for blind and low-vision users. Nisreen Abdel-Majid learns how a 14-year-old girl’s dream became a movement for inclusive design. In this roundtable conversation with Shine Foundation CEO Tiffany Houston, Cheekbone Beauty founder Jenn Harper, and Scarlette herself, we ask, what can accessible beauty feel like, and how can we get there one product at a time? Makeup is often seen as a language of self-expression but what happens when that world isn’t built for you? For World Sight Day, the Shine Foundation teamed up with Indigenous-owned Cheekbone Beauty to create Scarlette’s Palette, the first-ever tactile makeup palette designed for blind and low-vision users. Nisreen Abdel-Majid learns how a 14-year-old girl’s dream became a movement for inclusive design. In this roundtable conversation with Shine Foundation CEO Tiffany Houston, Cheekbone Beauty founder Jenn Harper, and Scarlette herself, we ask, what can accessible beauty feel like, and how can we get there one product at a time? false full 25 1 22805f32-eed6-4584-b8c5-3409a646cc11 Spook-tacular Season: Treating Accessibly this Halloween Part 2 Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year!

Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. 

Plus, Joeita speaks with the founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! 

Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! 

For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/spook-tacular-season-treating-accessibly-this-halloween-part-2-8DlSxo_f Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year!

Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. 

Plus, Joeita speaks with the founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! 

Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! 

For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Spook-tacular Season: Treating Accessibly this Halloween Part 2 AMI 00:28:00 Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year! Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. Plus, Joeita speaks with the founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year! Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. Plus, Joeita speaks with the founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com false full 24 1 d005dfe5-8e71-4366-b4c5-91126a4af237 Spook-tacular Season: Treating Accessibly this Halloween Part 1 Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year!

Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. 

Plus, Joeita speaks with founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! 

Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! 

For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/spook-tacular-season-treating-accessibly-this-halloween-part-1-gotbynU_ Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year!

Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. 

Plus, Joeita speaks with founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! 

Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! 

For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Spook-tacular Season: Treating Accessibly this Halloween Part 1 AMI 00:27:58 Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year! Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. Plus, Joeita speaks with founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com Joeita Gupta is inviting you to join her and Producer Matt Agnew for a spook-tacular afternoon at the 2025 Toronto Treat Accessibly Halloween Village, where families living with disabilities can safely and accessibly celebrate the spookiest time of the year! Making Halloween Accessible has been Treat Accessibly’s mission since 2017, and it takes a village to make it happen! Joeita takes to the street full of characters from Paw Patrol, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses to talk with kids, parents, and homeowners who take part in the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village. Plus, Joeita speaks with founder of Treat Accessibly Rich Padulo who tells us how the event started, and how much it’s grown! Listen in to the Halloween fun in Toronto that will surely make you want to shout Trick or Treat! For more information about how to treat accessibly visit: www.treataccessibly.com false full 23 1 f41127c0-c369-46a5-88d1-b9ec29021a53 How can we change what it means to have a facial difference? Thu, 23 Oct 2025 17:44:39 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-can-we-change-what-it-means-to-have-a-facial-difference-oowCZ_Nz How can we change what it means to have a facial difference? Ramya Amuthan, Grant Hardy 00:28:00 Grant Hardy speaks with experts and advocates in the facial difference community to answer key questions about facial differences, attitudinal barriers, societal stereotypes, and appropriate media representation. Kate Gies is the author of “It Must Be Beautiful To Be Finished” and shares how growing up trying to fit other people’s standards caused her to experience medical violence. Author and advocate Chelsey Peat tells us about her journey of self-acceptance, and the importance of sharing her own lived experiences in her advocacy work. Phyllida Swift is the CEO of Face Equality International who provides her perspective on the attitudinal barriers facing the facial difference community and how her organization can support those who face these barriers. Comedian David Roche joins Grant to talk about how representation in media, on stage, and online is crucial for everybody, not just the facial difference community. A facial difference can be defined as a congenital (from birth), acquired (after birth), or episodic (comes and goes) condition or syndrome that physically alters a person's face or neck area. But that definition doesn’t truly capture the lived experiences of people with facial differences in a society that values conformity. How can we challenge our perceptions, expectations, and stereotypical ideas of people with facial differences? What can we do better? Listen to these stories full of both negative and positive experiences to learn how society can become more educated and equitable for those with facial differences. Grant Hardy speaks with experts and advocates in the facial difference community to answer key questions about facial differences, attitudinal barriers, societal stereotypes, and appropriate media representation. Kate Gies is the author of “It Must Be Beautiful To Be Finished” and shares how growing up trying to fit other people’s standards caused her to experience medical violence. Author and advocate Chelsey Peat tells us about her journey of self-acceptance, and the importance of sharing her own lived experiences in her advocacy work. Phyllida Swift is the CEO of Face Equality International who provides her perspective on the attitudinal barriers facing the facial difference community and how her organization can support those who face these barriers. Comedian David Roche joins Grant to talk about how representation in media, on stage, and online is crucial for everybody, not just the facial difference community. A facial difference can be defined as a congenital (from birth), acquired (after birth), or episodic (comes and goes) condition or syndrome that physically alters a person's face or neck area. But that definition doesn’t truly capture the lived experiences of people with facial differences in a society that values conformity. How can we challenge our perceptions, expectations, and stereotypical ideas of people with facial differences? What can we do better? Listen to these stories full of both negative and positive experiences to learn how society can become more educated and equitable for those with facial differences. inclusion, disability rights, kate gies, chelsey peat, body image, advocacy, reflections podcast, attitudinal barriers, self acceptance, visible disability, facial difference, media stereotypes, social stigma, phyllida swift, disability representation, face equality international, david roche, medical trauma, grant hardy, representation in media false full 22 1 2213dc78-fc78-4107-bc39-192db048737b Leaving the Nest: Why is Parental Estrangement a Trending Topic? Have you noticed that there’s a surge of influencers whose audiences are primarily adult children who are estranged from their parents? Joeita Gupta made this observation of her own social media algorithm, and she went exploring. Joeita speaks with an estranged adult child, and experts from this field of study, to figure out if parental estrangement is trendy, or if there’s societal developments that make this a more common occurrence.

Joeita speaks to Andrea, who has been estranged from her mother for many years. Andrea shares the reason she cut off her mother, and the years of abuse that caused their relationship to be so strained. 

Joshua Coleman, psychologist, author, and Senior Fellow with the Council on Contemporary Families, was no contact with his own daughter for a brief period. He joins Joeita to tell us why there seems to be a rise in familial estrangement, and how parents can go about making amends. 

Rin Reczek, Professor of Sociology at The Ohio State University, shares research about familial estrangement and how disability, sex, and gender can affect levels of estrangement among parents and their adult children.

So, are those influencers just capitalizing on a trendy topic? Or is society really changing to openly talk about finding healthier, more supportive, and happier relationships with your chosen family? Let’s listen to these expert opinions to find out.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 22 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (AMI) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/leaving-the-nest-why-is-parental-estrangement-a-trending-topic-Nr2CO9nx Have you noticed that there’s a surge of influencers whose audiences are primarily adult children who are estranged from their parents? Joeita Gupta made this observation of her own social media algorithm, and she went exploring. Joeita speaks with an estranged adult child, and experts from this field of study, to figure out if parental estrangement is trendy, or if there’s societal developments that make this a more common occurrence.

Joeita speaks to Andrea, who has been estranged from her mother for many years. Andrea shares the reason she cut off her mother, and the years of abuse that caused their relationship to be so strained. 

Joshua Coleman, psychologist, author, and Senior Fellow with the Council on Contemporary Families, was no contact with his own daughter for a brief period. He joins Joeita to tell us why there seems to be a rise in familial estrangement, and how parents can go about making amends. 

Rin Reczek, Professor of Sociology at The Ohio State University, shares research about familial estrangement and how disability, sex, and gender can affect levels of estrangement among parents and their adult children.

So, are those influencers just capitalizing on a trendy topic? Or is society really changing to openly talk about finding healthier, more supportive, and happier relationships with your chosen family? Let’s listen to these expert opinions to find out.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Leaving the Nest: Why is Parental Estrangement a Trending Topic? AMI 00:28:00 Have you noticed that there’s a surge of influencers whose audiences are primarily adult children who are estranged from their parents? Joeita Gupta made this observation of her own social media algorithm, and she went exploring. Joeita speaks with an estranged adult child, and experts from this field of study, to figure out if parental estrangement is trendy, or if there’s societal developments that make this a more common occurrence. Joeita speaks to Andrea, who has been estranged from her mother for many years. Andrea shares the reason she cut off her mother, and the years of abuse that caused their relationship to be so strained. Joshua Coleman, psychologist, author, and Senior Fellow with the Council on Contemporary Families, was no contact with his own daughter for a brief period. He joins Joeita to tell us why there seems to be a rise in familial estrangement, and how parents can go about making amends. Rin Reczek, Professor of Sociology at The Ohio State University, shares research about familial estrangement and how disability, sex, and gender can affect levels of estrangement among parents and their adult children. So, are those influencers just capitalizing on a trendy topic? Or is society really changing to openly talk about finding healthier, more supportive, and happier relationships with your chosen family? Let’s listen to these expert opinions to find out. Have you noticed that there’s a surge of influencers whose audiences are primarily adult children who are estranged from their parents? Joeita Gupta made this observation of her own social media algorithm, and she went exploring. Joeita speaks with an estranged adult child, and experts from this field of study, to figure out if parental estrangement is trendy, or if there’s societal developments that make this a more common occurrence. Joeita speaks to Andrea, who has been estranged from her mother for many years. Andrea shares the reason she cut off her mother, and the years of abuse that caused their relationship to be so strained. Joshua Coleman, psychologist, author, and Senior Fellow with the Council on Contemporary Families, was no contact with his own daughter for a brief period. He joins Joeita to tell us why there seems to be a rise in familial estrangement, and how parents can go about making amends. Rin Reczek, Professor of Sociology at The Ohio State University, shares research about familial estrangement and how disability, sex, and gender can affect levels of estrangement among parents and their adult children. So, are those influencers just capitalizing on a trendy topic? Or is society really changing to openly talk about finding healthier, more supportive, and happier relationships with your chosen family? Let’s listen to these expert opinions to find out. false full 21 1 cd29c6dc-24bf-4f53-aaf5-1d05098b3323 Canada's Burning Up: The Heat Is On Tue, 21 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/canadas-burning-up-the-heat-is-on-DqMUaBAx Canada's Burning Up: The Heat Is On Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:28:00 Temperatures are rising and affecting our world in horrifying ways, the only world we have at the moment. Kelly MacDonald sits down with experts to bring us up to speed on the current state of dealing with fires and emergencies in Canada. Professor Sébastien Jodoin from the Faculty of Law at McGill University, and the Canada Research Chair in Human Rights, Health, and the Environment, gives us a reality check on the lack of supports when it comes to emergency evacuations for people with disabilities. Ken McMullen, President of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, brings us more than just the ins and outs of creating a National Fire Strategy for our country. Nobody wants to think about being left behind during an emergency, but the reality is we’re losing lives, so let’s have the conversation. https://cafc.ca/ https://www.disabilityinclusiveclimate.org/enabling-commons Temperatures are rising and affecting our world in horrifying ways, the only world we have at the moment. Kelly MacDonald sits down with experts to bring us up to speed on the current state of dealing with fires and emergencies in Canada. Professor Sébastien Jodoin from the Faculty of Law at McGill University, and the Canada Research Chair in Human Rights, Health, and the Environment, gives us a reality check on the lack of supports when it comes to emergency evacuations for people with disabilities. Ken McMullen, President of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, brings us more than just the ins and outs of creating a National Fire Strategy for our country. Nobody wants to think about being left behind during an emergency, but the reality is we’re losing lives, so let’s have the conversation. https://cafc.ca/ https://www.disabilityinclusiveclimate.org/enabling-commons climate change, emergency preparedness, canadian association of fire chiefs, canada research chair, human rights and environment, evacuation planning, heat dome, reflections ami-audio, disaster risk reduction, national fire administration, wildfires, disability inclusion, volunteer firefighters, mcgill university, climate justice, climate adaptation, rick hansen foundation, first responders, accessibility in emergencies, firefighters false full 20 1 dc7b585e-490a-4245-b059-11021b97e559 Dating With a Disclaimer: Disability isn't the Deal-Breaker Dating is quite a modern concept, and there's some tug of war on how to make it work. Things could get pretty messy when you're fighting between honesty and authenticity, while trying to get to know a whole other human being.

Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into the messy world of love and relationships with Joshua Simmonds, a counselling psychologist who talks through the complexities of dating in the modern world with disability. And we bravely share the testimonials of 'been there, done that' with dating, sifting through our choices while reflecting through personal experiences.

Disability is definitely part of the equation, but what if we're over feeling like we're the problem?

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Joshua Simmonds, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/dating-with-a-disclaimer-disability-isnt-the-deal-breaker-CVMCXqsK Dating is quite a modern concept, and there's some tug of war on how to make it work. Things could get pretty messy when you're fighting between honesty and authenticity, while trying to get to know a whole other human being.

Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into the messy world of love and relationships with Joshua Simmonds, a counselling psychologist who talks through the complexities of dating in the modern world with disability. And we bravely share the testimonials of 'been there, done that' with dating, sifting through our choices while reflecting through personal experiences.

Disability is definitely part of the equation, but what if we're over feeling like we're the problem?

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Dating With a Disclaimer: Disability isn't the Deal-Breaker Joshua Simmonds, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Dating is quite a modern concept, and there's some tug of war on how to make it work. Things could get pretty messy when you're fighting between honesty and authenticity, while trying to get to know a whole other human being. Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into the messy world of love and relationships with Joshua Simmonds, a counselling psychologist who talks through the complexities of dating in the modern world with disability. And we bravely share the testimonials of 'been there, done that' with dating, sifting through our choices while reflecting through personal experiences. Disability is definitely part of the equation, but what if we're over feeling like we're the problem? Dating is quite a modern concept, and there's some tug of war on how to make it work. Things could get pretty messy when you're fighting between honesty and authenticity, while trying to get to know a whole other human being. Nisreen Abdel-Majid dives into the messy world of love and relationships with Joshua Simmonds, a counselling psychologist who talks through the complexities of dating in the modern world with disability. And we bravely share the testimonials of 'been there, done that' with dating, sifting through our choices while reflecting through personal experiences. Disability is definitely part of the equation, but what if we're over feeling like we're the problem? dating app, partner, date, relationships, online dating, disability, accessibility false full 19 1 e75072d3-ef96-4ab7-b378-8d367d85d836 Accessing Hockey: Learning to Play and Watch Canada’s Game Hockey is one of Canada’s most culturally significant sports, but you’re not alone if you're still trying to figure out how to get into the game.

How can we all be included in Hockey? Grant Hardy took this question to his guests, and we hear from AMI-audio friends, Jacob Shymanski, Kelly MacDonald, and Jeff Ryman, about how the game is played and what the sport means to them. Plus, they provide words of encouragement for anyone looking to learn about hockey.

Canadian Athlete Aaron Prevost shares his experience playing Goaltender in Blind Hockey , as someone who is totally blind.

And Luca Demontis of Canadian Blind Hockey takes us through how hockey is being adapted for blind or partially sighted players, which is work in progress.

Whether you’re totally new to the sport, or a more experienced hockey lover, listen in to Grant’s conversations with players and fans to gain a new perspective on Canada’s game.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 9 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Aaron Prevost, Luca Demontis, Grant Hardy, Jacob Shymanski, Kelly MacDonald, Jeff Ryman, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/accessing-hockey-learning-to-play-and-watch-canadas-game-JaGnKZN8 Hockey is one of Canada’s most culturally significant sports, but you’re not alone if you're still trying to figure out how to get into the game.

How can we all be included in Hockey? Grant Hardy took this question to his guests, and we hear from AMI-audio friends, Jacob Shymanski, Kelly MacDonald, and Jeff Ryman, about how the game is played and what the sport means to them. Plus, they provide words of encouragement for anyone looking to learn about hockey.

Canadian Athlete Aaron Prevost shares his experience playing Goaltender in Blind Hockey , as someone who is totally blind.

And Luca Demontis of Canadian Blind Hockey takes us through how hockey is being adapted for blind or partially sighted players, which is work in progress.

Whether you’re totally new to the sport, or a more experienced hockey lover, listen in to Grant’s conversations with players and fans to gain a new perspective on Canada’s game.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Accessing Hockey: Learning to Play and Watch Canada’s Game Aaron Prevost, Luca Demontis, Grant Hardy, Jacob Shymanski, Kelly MacDonald, Jeff Ryman, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Hockey is one of Canada’s most culturally significant sports, but you’re not alone if you're still trying to figure out how to get into the game. How can we all be included in Hockey? Grant Hardy took this question to his guests, and we hear from AMI-audio friends, Jacob Shymanski, Kelly MacDonald, and Jeff Ryman, about how the game is played and what the sport means to them. Plus, they provide words of encouragement for anyone looking to learn about hockey. Canadian Athlete Aaron Prevost shares his experience playing Goaltender in Blind Hockey , as someone who is totally blind. And Luca Demontis of Canadian Blind Hockey takes us through how hockey is being adapted for blind or partially sighted players, which is work in progress. Whether you’re totally new to the sport, or a more experienced hockey lover, listen in to Grant’s conversations with players and fans to gain a new perspective on Canada’s game. Hockey is one of Canada’s most culturally significant sports, but you’re not alone if you're still trying to figure out how to get into the game. How can we all be included in Hockey? Grant Hardy took this question to his guests, and we hear from AMI-audio friends, Jacob Shymanski, Kelly MacDonald, and Jeff Ryman, about how the game is played and what the sport means to them. Plus, they provide words of encouragement for anyone looking to learn about hockey. Canadian Athlete Aaron Prevost shares his experience playing Goaltender in Blind Hockey , as someone who is totally blind. And Luca Demontis of Canadian Blind Hockey takes us through how hockey is being adapted for blind or partially sighted players, which is work in progress. Whether you’re totally new to the sport, or a more experienced hockey lover, listen in to Grant’s conversations with players and fans to gain a new perspective on Canada’s game. canada, adaptive sports, canadian, accessible sport, sports, blind hockey, recreation, passtime false full 18 1 87cf5370-439e-456d-aa43-cdbd7e0cc478 Dribble Around Ottawa: Tour Eastern Ontario's Rich Basketball History Wed, 8 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/dribble-around-ottawa-tour-eastern-ontarios-rich-basketball-history-pg6w-6ld-PUvZM9yA Dribble Around Ottawa: Tour Eastern Ontario's Rich Basketball History Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:27:57 Canada's Ottawa region has a rich basketball history, and we're about to learn all about it. Kelly MacDonald needed a reason to bring another dose of sports into the show, so he spoke to Leo Doyle, chair of Eastern Ontario Basketball and founder of the Ottawa Basketball Network, who leads a basketball tour around Ottawa. We hear from Martin Cleary, Veteran and retired Ottawa Citizen Sports Reporter. Guled Aden is a community leader trying to give back to the sport that gave him so much joy when he most needed it. And we look ahead to 2026 when the World Wheelchair Basketball Championships are hosted, also in Ottawa, with Wendy Gittens, CEO of Wheelchair Basketball Canada. Canada's Ottawa region has a rich basketball history, and we're about to learn all about it. Kelly MacDonald needed a reason to bring another dose of sports into the show, so he spoke to Leo Doyle, chair of Eastern Ontario Basketball and founder of the Ottawa Basketball Network, who leads a basketball tour around Ottawa. We hear from Martin Cleary, Veteran and retired Ottawa Citizen Sports Reporter. Guled Aden is a community leader trying to give back to the sport that gave him so much joy when he most needed it. And we look ahead to 2026 when the World Wheelchair Basketball Championships are hosted, also in Ottawa, with Wendy Gittens, CEO of Wheelchair Basketball Canada. somali community ottawa, basketball accessibility, ottawa citizen sports reporter, martin cleary, reflections, inclusive sports, james naismith, ottawa basketball history, multicultural sports canada, canadian basketball legacy, guled aden, ramya amuthan, community links basketball, wheelchair basketball canada, ami-audio, youth basketball ottawa, eastern ontario basketball, almonte ontario, accessible media inc., ottawa basketball network, reflections kelly macdonald, 2026 world wheelchair basketball championships, wendy gittens, leo doyle false full 17 1 f282e3d1-2fe4-493d-becd-8c9cd22294f4 Truth and Reconciliation for All Peoples: Disability and Indigeneity - Part 2 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025.

To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. 

Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. 

In Part 2, we’ll hear from Walter Wytek Chan, Kevin Morgan, and John Ward to learn about how crucial it is that truth and reconciliation considers all peoples in Canada. Plus, a statement from the Assembly of First Nations that explains what they’ve been doing to advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples with disabilities.

Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:30:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Walter Wytak Chan, Joeita Gupta, John Ward, Kevin Morgan, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/tr-part-2-_XCIteKh National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025.

To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. 

Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. 

In Part 2, we’ll hear from Walter Wytek Chan, Kevin Morgan, and John Ward to learn about how crucial it is that truth and reconciliation considers all peoples in Canada. Plus, a statement from the Assembly of First Nations that explains what they’ve been doing to advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples with disabilities.

Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Truth and Reconciliation for All Peoples: Disability and Indigeneity - Part 2 Walter Wytak Chan, Joeita Gupta, John Ward, Kevin Morgan, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025. To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. In Part 2, we’ll hear from Walter, Kevin, and John to learn about how crucial it is that truth and reconciliation considers all peoples in Canada. Plus, a statement from the Assembly of First Nations that explains what they’ve been doing to advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025. To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. In Part 2, we’ll hear from Walter, Kevin, and John to learn about how crucial it is that truth and reconciliation considers all peoples in Canada. Plus, a statement from the Assembly of First Nations that explains what they’ve been doing to advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts. canada, education, higher education, t&r, indigenous, disability, history, accessibility false full 16 1 45c7ceb8-ae22-47d4-8e1d-f317bec972e8 Truth and Reconciliation for All Peoples: Disability and Indigeneity - Part 1 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025.

To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. 

Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. 

In Part 1, we’ll hear from Kevin Morgan, a survivor of the 60’s scoop, about how reconnecting with his culture redefined his perception of disability. John Ward is a Professor at the University of Sydney and the author of the book Indigenous Disability Studies, and he shares his expertise about how Indigenous knowledge about disability should impact truth and reconciliation efforts. Walter Wytak Chan works at Algoma University, and he tells us the four ways that colonialism and the government have perpetuated hardships for people with disability in Indigenous communities. And Neil Belanger is Chief Executive Officer of Indigenous Disability Canada, and he shares his unique perspective on how Canada’s colonial legacy impacts people with disability. 

Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Kevin Morgan, John Ward, Walter Wytak Cha, Neil Belanger, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/tr-part-1-WB0ZMfUJ National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025.

To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. 

Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. 

In Part 1, we’ll hear from Kevin Morgan, a survivor of the 60’s scoop, about how reconnecting with his culture redefined his perception of disability. John Ward is a Professor at the University of Sydney and the author of the book Indigenous Disability Studies, and he shares his expertise about how Indigenous knowledge about disability should impact truth and reconciliation efforts. Walter Wytak Chan works at Algoma University, and he tells us the four ways that colonialism and the government have perpetuated hardships for people with disability in Indigenous communities. And Neil Belanger is Chief Executive Officer of Indigenous Disability Canada, and he shares his unique perspective on how Canada’s colonial legacy impacts people with disability. 

Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Truth and Reconciliation for All Peoples: Disability and Indigeneity - Part 1 Kevin Morgan, John Ward, Walter Wytak Cha, Neil Belanger, Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta 00:28:00 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025. To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. In Part 1, we’ll hear from Kevin Morgan, a survivor of the 60’s scoop, about how reconnecting with his culture redefined his perception of disability. John Ward is a Professor at the University of Sydney and the author of the book Indigenous Disability Studies, and he shares his expertise about how Indigenous knowledge about disability should impact truth and reconciliation efforts. Walter Wytak Chan works at Algoma University, and he tells us the four ways that colonialism and the government have perpetuated hardships for people with disability in Indigenous communities. And Neil Belanger is Chief Executive Officer of Indigenous Disability Canada, and he shares his unique perspective on how Canada’s colonial legacy impacts people with disability. Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on September 30th, 2025. To mark this important day, Joeita Gupta created a two-part documentary that explores how reconciliation efforts can be made to include Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Join Joeita on this learning experience, as she speaks to experts, academics, and people with lived experience about the ways that reconciliation efforts exclude people with disabilities, parts of Indigenous communities. And we’ll learn about the colonial way with which we approach truth and reconciliation. In Part 1, we’ll hear from Kevin Morgan, a survivor of the 60’s scoop, about how reconnecting with his culture redefined his perception of disability. John Ward is a Professor at the University of Sydney and the author of the book Indigenous Disability Studies, and he shares his expertise about how Indigenous knowledge about disability should impact truth and reconciliation efforts. Walter Wytak Chan works at Algoma University, and he tells us the four ways that colonialism and the government have perpetuated hardships for people with disability in Indigenous communities. And Neil Belanger is Chief Executive Officer of Indigenous Disability Canada, and he shares his unique perspective on how Canada’s colonial legacy impacts people with disability. Our guests will also weigh in on how they feel organizations have included people with disabilities in their broader truth and reconciliation efforts. canada, education, higher education, higher learning, t&r, indigenous, disability, history, accessibility false full 15 1 a70acef3-10cd-4898-b7c8-7da5964a0147 Can I Touch Your Dog: A Closer Look at Guide Dog Etiquette Service animals are more than pets, they’re expertly trained companions who empower their handlers with freedom, safety, and independence. And now, let’s factor in the public.

How do handlers deal with strangers petting their dogs without permission, asking invasive questions, or ignoring clear boundaries?

Nisreen Abdel-Majid takes us inside a day in the life of guide dog handlers to better understand what it truly means to rely on a guide dog, and why respect and understanding from the public makes all the difference.

Runa Patel and Jeff Berwick, both experienced guide dog handlers, share powerful stories from their experiences. Landra Berwick, a professional guide dog instructor with decades of varying expertise offers insight into the thoughtful, rigorous training that goes into preparing these human-animal relationships for success.

Let’s explore the realities of this working relationship, and figure out how the public fits in.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Runa Patel, Jeff Berwick, Landra Berwick, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/can-i-touch-your-dog-wFjJFMQY Service animals are more than pets, they’re expertly trained companions who empower their handlers with freedom, safety, and independence. And now, let’s factor in the public.

How do handlers deal with strangers petting their dogs without permission, asking invasive questions, or ignoring clear boundaries?

Nisreen Abdel-Majid takes us inside a day in the life of guide dog handlers to better understand what it truly means to rely on a guide dog, and why respect and understanding from the public makes all the difference.

Runa Patel and Jeff Berwick, both experienced guide dog handlers, share powerful stories from their experiences. Landra Berwick, a professional guide dog instructor with decades of varying expertise offers insight into the thoughtful, rigorous training that goes into preparing these human-animal relationships for success.

Let’s explore the realities of this working relationship, and figure out how the public fits in.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Can I Touch Your Dog: A Closer Look at Guide Dog Etiquette Runa Patel, Jeff Berwick, Landra Berwick, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid 00:28:00 Service animals are more than pets, they’re expertly trained companions who empower their handlers with freedom, safety, and independence. And now, let’s factor in the public. How do handlers deal with strangers petting their dogs without permission, asking invasive questions, or ignoring clear boundaries? Nisreen Abdel-Majid takes us inside a day in the life of guide dog handlers to better understand what it truly means to rely on a guide dog, and why respect and understanding from the public makes all the difference. Runa Patel and Jeff Berwick, both experienced guide dog handlers, share powerful stories from their experiences. Landra Berwick, a professional guide dog instructor with decades of varying expertise offers insight into the thoughtful, rigorous training that goes into preparing these human-animal relationships for success. Let’s explore the realities of this working relationship, and figure out how the public fits in. Service animals are more than pets, they’re expertly trained companions who empower their handlers with freedom, safety, and independence. And now, let’s factor in the public. How do handlers deal with strangers petting their dogs without permission, asking invasive questions, or ignoring clear boundaries? Nisreen Abdel-Majid takes us inside a day in the life of guide dog handlers to better understand what it truly means to rely on a guide dog, and why respect and understanding from the public makes all the difference. Runa Patel and Jeff Berwick, both experienced guide dog handlers, share powerful stories from their experiences. Landra Berwick, a professional guide dog instructor with decades of varying expertise offers insight into the thoughtful, rigorous training that goes into preparing these human-animal relationships for success. Let’s explore the realities of this working relationship, and figure out how the public fits in. guide, disability, dog, service dog, accessibility, service animal, guide dog false full 14 1 512e397f-2eb0-4279-890f-4274ec32ef82 Lost in Fashion: Where did my shirt pocket go? Kelly MacDonald noticed his shirt pocket was quietly disappearing, so he went out to get some important answers to his burning questions.

He visits one of his go-to clothing spots, George Richards, and talks it out with Store Manager, David Uren. Along the way, he loops in colleagues and friends, figuring out if they care as much as he does about disappearing shirt pockets.

With a bit of history (and a lot of speculation) does Kelly get satisfying answers to his questions around what's at play in men's fashion? Let's listen and find out.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (David Uren, Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/lost-in-fashion-where-did-my-shirt-pocket-go-goiTR75m Kelly MacDonald noticed his shirt pocket was quietly disappearing, so he went out to get some important answers to his burning questions.

He visits one of his go-to clothing spots, George Richards, and talks it out with Store Manager, David Uren. Along the way, he loops in colleagues and friends, figuring out if they care as much as he does about disappearing shirt pockets.

With a bit of history (and a lot of speculation) does Kelly get satisfying answers to his questions around what's at play in men's fashion? Let's listen and find out.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Lost in Fashion: Where did my shirt pocket go? David Uren, Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:28:00 Kelly MacDonald noticed his shirt pocket was quietly disappearing, so he went out to get some important answers to his burning questions. He visits one of his go-to clothing spots, George Richards, and talks it out with Store Manager, David Uren. Along the way, he loops in colleagues and friends, figuring out if they care as much as he does about disappearing shirt pockets. With a bit of history (and a lot of speculation) does Kelly get satisfying answers to his questions around what's at play in men's fashion? Let's listen and find out. Kelly MacDonald noticed his shirt pocket was quietly disappearing, so he went out to get some important answers to his burning questions. He visits one of his go-to clothing spots, George Richards, and talks it out with Store Manager, David Uren. Along the way, he loops in colleagues and friends, figuring out if they care as much as he does about disappearing shirt pockets. With a bit of history (and a lot of speculation) does Kelly get satisfying answers to his questions around what's at play in men's fashion? Let's listen and find out. utility, fashion, lifestyle, storage, accessibility, clothing, pocket square false full 13 1 1ff6cc85-9d2d-436b-b7c0-2638d7b7e8f8 No, I don't just stay home: Exploring Access at Performance Venues What does it really take to access joy, community, and live music when fun isn’t always accessible? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out.

 

Everyone deserves a night out, but for many people with disabilities, concerts and live events come with extra barriers most don’t see. Let’s share the joys and the frustrations of navigating a night out.

Brock Richardson, a former AMI contributor and wheelchair user, shares his perspective on accessibility at concerts and events. Amy Amantea, a passionate concert and theatre-goer who is blind, takes us through the realities of ticketing, seating, and enjoying a show in spaces not always built with everyone in mind. And Jenny C, a fellow DJ and drummer, reflects on what accessibility looks like from a performer’s perspective in GTA nightlife.

We also dig into the accessibility offerings (and shortcomings) of some of Toronto’s best-known venues, including Danforth Music Hall, Roy Thomson Hall, and Massey Hall.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Jenny C, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Brock Richardson, Amy Amantea) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/no-i-dont-just-stay-home-exploring-access-at-performance-venues-ESRhs64i What does it really take to access joy, community, and live music when fun isn’t always accessible? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out.

 

Everyone deserves a night out, but for many people with disabilities, concerts and live events come with extra barriers most don’t see. Let’s share the joys and the frustrations of navigating a night out.

Brock Richardson, a former AMI contributor and wheelchair user, shares his perspective on accessibility at concerts and events. Amy Amantea, a passionate concert and theatre-goer who is blind, takes us through the realities of ticketing, seating, and enjoying a show in spaces not always built with everyone in mind. And Jenny C, a fellow DJ and drummer, reflects on what accessibility looks like from a performer’s perspective in GTA nightlife.

We also dig into the accessibility offerings (and shortcomings) of some of Toronto’s best-known venues, including Danforth Music Hall, Roy Thomson Hall, and Massey Hall.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> No, I don't just stay home: Exploring Access at Performance Venues Jenny C, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Brock Richardson, Amy Amantea 00:24:54 What does it really take to access joy, community, and live music when fun isn’t always accessible? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out. Everyone deserves a night out, but for many people with disabilities, concerts and live events come with extra barriers most don’t see. Let’s share the joys and the frustrations of navigating a night out. Brock Richardson, a former AMI contributor and wheelchair user, shares his perspective on accessibility at concerts and events. Amy Amantea, a passionate concert and theatre-goer who is blind, takes us through the realities of ticketing, seating, and enjoying a show in spaces not always built with everyone in mind. And Jenny C, a fellow DJ and drummer, reflects on what accessibility looks like from a performer’s perspective in GTA nightlife. We also dig into the accessibility offerings (and shortcomings) of some of Toronto’s best-known venues, including Danforth Music Hall, Roy Thomson Hall, and Massey Hall. What does it really take to access joy, community, and live music when fun isn’t always accessible? Nisreen Abdel-Majid finds out. Everyone deserves a night out, but for many people with disabilities, concerts and live events come with extra barriers most don’t see. Let’s share the joys and the frustrations of navigating a night out. Brock Richardson, a former AMI contributor and wheelchair user, shares his perspective on accessibility at concerts and events. Amy Amantea, a passionate concert and theatre-goer who is blind, takes us through the realities of ticketing, seating, and enjoying a show in spaces not always built with everyone in mind. And Jenny C, a fellow DJ and drummer, reflects on what accessibility looks like from a performer’s perspective in GTA nightlife. We also dig into the accessibility offerings (and shortcomings) of some of Toronto’s best-known venues, including Danforth Music Hall, Roy Thomson Hall, and Massey Hall. venues, theatre, enterainment, universal design, access, music, concert, arts, accessibility false full 12 1 1965f0b8-1ecc-4081-a6ea-2c06008b61da AI: Accessibility vs Privacy The further development of AI has proved to be a watershed moment for accessibility, but how concerned should users be about their privacy and data protection? Grant Hardy invites experts, users, and developers to share their perspectives on whether giving up certain levels of privacy is worth accessible software and tech. 

Mike Feir is a tech expert, and regular AI user. He tells us how AI has impacted his day to day, and the level of privacy he’s willing to give up to continue using the life-changing software. Dr. Jutta Treviranus is Director of the Inclusive Research Centre at OCAD University, and she joins us to explain how our data is used by AI, and some solutions for protecting yourself online. Winston Chen is the Developer of the app VDScan, and he introduces us to the concept of offline AI models. 

Through these conversations, Grant explores his own perspectives on internet privacy, and helps us challenge the notion that privacy should be given up in exchange for these services.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 18 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (ramya, Grant Hardy) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-accessibility-vs-privacy-g2q_UYtv The further development of AI has proved to be a watershed moment for accessibility, but how concerned should users be about their privacy and data protection? Grant Hardy invites experts, users, and developers to share their perspectives on whether giving up certain levels of privacy is worth accessible software and tech. 

Mike Feir is a tech expert, and regular AI user. He tells us how AI has impacted his day to day, and the level of privacy he’s willing to give up to continue using the life-changing software. Dr. Jutta Treviranus is Director of the Inclusive Research Centre at OCAD University, and she joins us to explain how our data is used by AI, and some solutions for protecting yourself online. Winston Chen is the Developer of the app VDScan, and he introduces us to the concept of offline AI models. 

Through these conversations, Grant explores his own perspectives on internet privacy, and helps us challenge the notion that privacy should be given up in exchange for these services.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> AI: Accessibility vs Privacy ramya, Grant Hardy 00:28:00 The further development of AI has proved to be a watershed moment for accessibility, but how concerned should users be about their privacy and data protection? Grant Hardy invites experts, users, and developers to share their perspectives on whether giving up certain levels of privacy is worth accessible software and tech. Mike Feir is a tech expert, and regular AI user. He tells us how AI has impacted his day to day, and the level of privacy he’s willing to give up to continue using the life-changing software. Dr. Jutta Treviranus is Director of the Inclusive Research Centre at OCAD University, and she joins us to explain how our data is used by AI, and some solutions for protecting yourself online. Winston Chen is the Developer of the app VDScan, and he introduces us to the concept of offline AI models. Through these conversations, Grant explores his own perspectives on internet privacy, and helps us challenge the notion that privacy should be given up in exchange for these services. The further development of AI has proved to be a watershed moment for accessibility, but how concerned should users be about their privacy and data protection? Grant Hardy invites experts, users, and developers to share their perspectives on whether giving up certain levels of privacy is worth accessible software and tech. Mike Feir is a tech expert, and regular AI user. He tells us how AI has impacted his day to day, and the level of privacy he’s willing to give up to continue using the life-changing software. Dr. Jutta Treviranus is Director of the Inclusive Research Centre at OCAD University, and she joins us to explain how our data is used by AI, and some solutions for protecting yourself online. Winston Chen is the Developer of the app VDScan, and he introduces us to the concept of offline AI models. Through these conversations, Grant explores his own perspectives on internet privacy, and helps us challenge the notion that privacy should be given up in exchange for these services. machine learning, artificial intelligence, privacy, technology, cyber security, ai, tech, cyber false full 11 1 d76074dc-1026-46b1-8a86-cd3d957ca19a Towards Just Care: Evaluating Canada's Home Care System The Towards Just Care Project evaluates Canada’s homecare system and aims to redefine what care means for recipients of homecare and homecare workers. 

Joeita Gupta invites us to join her at a round table with guests involved in advocacy and academia within the homecare sector. 

We hear from Mary Jean Jande, the Academic Lead of the Towards Just Care Project, about how the project got started. Megan Linton, the co-lead of the Towards Just Care Project, explains some of the intricacies of the current homecare system. Jill-Anne Santiago is the Program Coordinator at the Migrants Resource Centre and provides her perspective of how the current challenges in the homecare sector affect undocumented homecare workers. Brad Evoy is Executive Director of the Disability Justice Network of Ontario, urges people with disabilities to get involved in creating a better homecare sector. And he reminds us that many homecare workers will eventually be recipients of homecare themselves. 

If you want to get involved or look at the toolkit created by the Towards Just Care Project, visit their website at towardsjustcare.com. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/towards-just-home-evaluating-canadas-home-care-system-lgPMMlSI The Towards Just Care Project evaluates Canada’s homecare system and aims to redefine what care means for recipients of homecare and homecare workers. 

Joeita Gupta invites us to join her at a round table with guests involved in advocacy and academia within the homecare sector. 

We hear from Mary Jean Jande, the Academic Lead of the Towards Just Care Project, about how the project got started. Megan Linton, the co-lead of the Towards Just Care Project, explains some of the intricacies of the current homecare system. Jill-Anne Santiago is the Program Coordinator at the Migrants Resource Centre and provides her perspective of how the current challenges in the homecare sector affect undocumented homecare workers. Brad Evoy is Executive Director of the Disability Justice Network of Ontario, urges people with disabilities to get involved in creating a better homecare sector. And he reminds us that many homecare workers will eventually be recipients of homecare themselves. 

If you want to get involved or look at the toolkit created by the Towards Just Care Project, visit their website at towardsjustcare.com. 

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Towards Just Care: Evaluating Canada's Home Care System Ramya Amuthan, Joeita Gupta 00:26:26 The Towards Just Care Project evaluates Canada’s homecare system and aims to redefine what care means for recipients of homecare and homecare workers. Joeita Gupta invites us to join her at a round table with guests involved in advocacy and academia within the homecare sector. We hear from Mary Jean Jande, the Academic Lead of the Towards Just Care Project, about how the project got started. Megan Linton, the co-lead of the Towards Just Care Project, explains some of the intricacies of the current homecare system. Jill-Anne Santiago is the Program Coordinator at the Migrants Resource Centre and provides her perspective of how the current challenges in the homecare sector affect undocumented homecare workers. Brad Evoy is Executive Director of the Disability Justice Network of Ontario, urges people with disabilities to get involved in creating a better homecare sector. And he reminds us that many homecare workers will eventually be recipients of homecare themselves. If you want to get involved or look at the toolkit created by the Towards Just Care Project, visit their website at towardsjustcare.com. The Towards Just Care Project evaluates Canada’s homecare system and aims to redefine what care means for recipients of homecare and homecare workers. Joeita Gupta invites us to join her at a round table with guests involved in advocacy and academia within the homecare sector. We hear from Mary Jean Jande, the Academic Lead of the Towards Just Care Project, about how the project got started. Megan Linton, the co-lead of the Towards Just Care Project, explains some of the intricacies of the current homecare system. Jill-Anne Santiago is the Program Coordinator at the Migrants Resource Centre and provides her perspective of how the current challenges in the homecare sector affect undocumented homecare workers. Brad Evoy is Executive Director of the Disability Justice Network of Ontario, urges people with disabilities to get involved in creating a better homecare sector. And he reminds us that many homecare workers will eventually be recipients of homecare themselves. If you want to get involved or look at the toolkit created by the Towards Just Care Project, visit their website at towardsjustcare.com. homecare, elder care, disability care, nursing home, home care, policy, retirement home, long-term care false full 10 1 5c852f8f-bc66-4906-93e3-85be319b7885 A Jumbo Story: The Phenomenon of Jumbo the African Elephant St. Thomas, Ontario is commemorating the 140th anniversary of Jumbo the Elephant's death with a new exhibit detailing his life and legacy. Kelly MacDonald visits with Steve Peters, a local historian who tells us Jumbo’s story, including details of his tragic end. Curator of the JUMBOMANIA exhibit, Madeleine Howard, shares everything they’ve got going on at this fascinating exhibit dedicated to Jumbo. From the elephant’s celebrity during the 19th century to Jumbo sodas, and beyond, let’s find out why this circus elephant left his mark.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 16 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/a-jumbo-story-the-phenomenon-of-jumbo-the-african-elephant-qrMVk_gb St. Thomas, Ontario is commemorating the 140th anniversary of Jumbo the Elephant's death with a new exhibit detailing his life and legacy. Kelly MacDonald visits with Steve Peters, a local historian who tells us Jumbo’s story, including details of his tragic end. Curator of the JUMBOMANIA exhibit, Madeleine Howard, shares everything they’ve got going on at this fascinating exhibit dedicated to Jumbo. From the elephant’s celebrity during the 19th century to Jumbo sodas, and beyond, let’s find out why this circus elephant left his mark.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> A Jumbo Story: The Phenomenon of Jumbo the African Elephant Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:26:30 St. Thomas, Ontario is commemorating the 140th anniversary of Jumbo the Elephant's death with a new exhibit detailing his life and legacy. Kelly MacDonald visits with Steve Peters, a local historian who tells us Jumbo’s story, including details of his tragic end. Curator of the JUMBOMANIA exhibit, Madeleine Howard, shares everything they’ve got going on at this fascinating exhibit dedicated to Jumbo. From the elephant’s celebrity during the 19th century to Jumbo sodas, and beyond, let’s find out why this circus elephant left his mark. St. Thomas, Ontario is commemorating the 140th anniversary of Jumbo the Elephant's death with a new exhibit detailing his life and legacy. Kelly MacDonald visits with Steve Peters, a local historian who tells us Jumbo’s story, including details of his tragic end. Curator of the JUMBOMANIA exhibit, Madeleine Howard, shares everything they’ve got going on at this fascinating exhibit dedicated to Jumbo. From the elephant’s celebrity during the 19th century to Jumbo sodas, and beyond, let’s find out why this circus elephant left his mark. ringling bros, pt barnum, cirus, the greatest showman, carnival, zoo, barnum & bailey, ringling brothers, history, barnum and bailey, southern ontario, travelling false full 9 1 b3f7063b-bcf9-4da8-baba-1a6ba25de2f8 Access is Belonging, Not Buttons: The New Playbook for Young Advocates Picture this: You’re out and about and you come across a barrier to persons with disabilities in the built environment. I.E. A record shop that doesn’t have a ramp out front. What can you, an average member of the community, do to get that barrier removed? Guest Reporter Jacob Shymanski and Reflections Senior Producer Matt Agnew found insightful answers to that question at Access Fest, A unique gathering of disability advocates that took place in spring 2025.
The event featured an all-star lineup of leading voices in disability rights advocacy, and we learn about their new playbook to support young disability advocates. Let’s find out how to effectively and productively get things done, from the people at the forefront of the disability rights movement.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Matt Agnew, Ramya Amuthan, Jacob Shymanski) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/access-is-belonging-not-buttons-the-new-playbook-for-young-advocates-tq28F1qx Picture this: You’re out and about and you come across a barrier to persons with disabilities in the built environment. I.E. A record shop that doesn’t have a ramp out front. What can you, an average member of the community, do to get that barrier removed? Guest Reporter Jacob Shymanski and Reflections Senior Producer Matt Agnew found insightful answers to that question at Access Fest, A unique gathering of disability advocates that took place in spring 2025.
The event featured an all-star lineup of leading voices in disability rights advocacy, and we learn about their new playbook to support young disability advocates. Let’s find out how to effectively and productively get things done, from the people at the forefront of the disability rights movement.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Access is Belonging, Not Buttons: The New Playbook for Young Advocates Matt Agnew, Ramya Amuthan, Jacob Shymanski 00:28:00 Picture this: You’re out and about and you come across a barrier to persons with disabilities in the built environment. I.E. A record shop that doesn’t have a ramp out front. What can you, an average member of the community, do to get that barrier removed? Guest Reporter Jacob Shymanski and Reflections Senior Producer Matt Agnew found insightful answers to that question at Access Fest, A unique gathering of disability advocates that took place in spring 2025. The event featured an all-star lineup of leading voices in disability rights advocacy, and we learn about their new playbook to support young disability advocates. Let’s find out how to effectively and productively get things done, from the people at the forefront of the disability rights movement. Picture this: You’re out and about and you come across a barrier to persons with disabilities in the built environment. I.E. A record shop that doesn’t have a ramp out front. What can you, an average member of the community, do to get that barrier removed? Guest Reporter Jacob Shymanski and Reflections Senior Producer Matt Agnew found insightful answers to that question at Access Fest, A unique gathering of disability advocates that took place in spring 2025. The event featured an all-star lineup of leading voices in disability rights advocacy, and we learn about their new playbook to support young disability advocates. Let’s find out how to effectively and productively get things done, from the people at the forefront of the disability rights movement. stop gap, advocate, universal design, barriers, advocating, accessibility, accessible false full 8 1 f1e1db16-3285-4ddd-86a7-d97fac675226 Unpacking Ozempic: The Debate on Health, Hype, and Disability Ozempic was developed with the intent to treat type 2 diabetes, but today, it’s become one of the biggest weight-loss crazes in North America. Nisreen Abdel-Majid digs into what happens when a medication meant to save lives becomes a massive cultural trend, who it affects, and how severely. We hear from Mousa Abdul Samar, Pharmacist and Manager at Deen Pharmacy, who offers a vital perspective on Ozempic’s intended use and the risks of misuse. Bill Shakleton, a retired AMI colleague living with type 2 diabetes, shares his personal journey with the drug and how the weight-loss buzz affects him directly. And Amy Amantea, an artist and accessibility advocate who's had type 1 diabetes her whole life, reflects on what it means to navigate treatment and public perception around Ozempic. Nisreen asks her guests for perspectives on who gets Ozempic, who needs it, and what we aught to pay more attention to around quick health fixes.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Amy Amantea, Bill Shackleton, Mousa Abdul Samar, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/unpacking-ozempic-the-debate-on-health-hype-and-disability-lgjafIVs Ozempic was developed with the intent to treat type 2 diabetes, but today, it’s become one of the biggest weight-loss crazes in North America. Nisreen Abdel-Majid digs into what happens when a medication meant to save lives becomes a massive cultural trend, who it affects, and how severely. We hear from Mousa Abdul Samar, Pharmacist and Manager at Deen Pharmacy, who offers a vital perspective on Ozempic’s intended use and the risks of misuse. Bill Shakleton, a retired AMI colleague living with type 2 diabetes, shares his personal journey with the drug and how the weight-loss buzz affects him directly. And Amy Amantea, an artist and accessibility advocate who's had type 1 diabetes her whole life, reflects on what it means to navigate treatment and public perception around Ozempic. Nisreen asks her guests for perspectives on who gets Ozempic, who needs it, and what we aught to pay more attention to around quick health fixes.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Unpacking Ozempic: The Debate on Health, Hype, and Disability Amy Amantea, Bill Shackleton, Mousa Abdul Samar, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Ramya Amuthan 00:27:31 Ozempic was developed with the intent to treat type 2 diabetes, but today, it’s become one of the biggest weight-loss crazes in North America. Nisreen Abdel-Majid digs into what happens when a medication meant to save lives becomes a massive cultural trend, who it affects, and how severely. We hear from Mousa Abdul Samar, Pharmacist and Manager at Deen Pharmacy, who offers a vital perspective on Ozempic’s intended use and the risks of misuse. Bill Shakleton, a retired AMI colleague living with type 2 diabetes, shares his personal journey with the drug and how the weight-loss buzz affects him directly. And Amy Amantea, an artist and accessibility advocate who's had type 1 diabetes her whole life, reflects on what it means to navigate treatment and public perception around Ozempic. Nisreen asks her guests for perspectives on who gets Ozempic, who needs it, and what we aught to pay more attention to around quick health fixes. Ozempic was developed with the intent to treat type 2 diabetes, but today, it’s become one of the biggest weight-loss crazes in North America. Nisreen Abdel-Majid digs into what happens when a medication meant to save lives becomes a massive cultural trend, who it affects, and how severely. We hear from Mousa Abdul Samar, Pharmacist and Manager at Deen Pharmacy, who offers a vital perspective on Ozempic’s intended use and the risks of misuse. Bill Shakleton, a retired AMI colleague living with type 2 diabetes, shares his personal journey with the drug and how the weight-loss buzz affects him directly. And Amy Amantea, an artist and accessibility advocate who's had type 1 diabetes her whole life, reflects on what it means to navigate treatment and public perception around Ozempic. Nisreen asks her guests for perspectives on who gets Ozempic, who needs it, and what we aught to pay more attention to around quick health fixes. fad diet, diabetes, diet, insulin, type 2, weight loss, type 1 false full 7 1 8912ff3e-f3e6-407e-852e-5ec3dab9d38a A Double Assault: Women with Disabilities and Intimate Partner Violence Violence against women is an epidemic, and women with disabilities are at a much higher risk to experience intimate partner violence. 

Joeita Gupta brings us along as she learns more about the attitudinal and tangible barriers that women with disabilities face when seeking support in an abusive relationship.

We hear from Marianne Ruffin, an expert in the violence against women sector. She shares her experience with intimate partner violence, and the shortcomings in accessibility training in social services. Malvika D'Costa is a PHD candidate at Western University, and she tells us why women with disabilities are often left out of the conversation about violence against women. Lorris Herrenda, the CEO of Yellow Brick House in Toronto shares how their shelters and programs offer support to women experiencing intimate partner violence. 

If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence,  you can call the Assaulted Women’s Help Line at 1-866-863-0511.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Marianne Ruffin, Malvika D'Costa, Lorris Herrenda, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/a-double-assault-women-with-disabilities-and-intimate-partner-violence-MNCdnAtY Violence against women is an epidemic, and women with disabilities are at a much higher risk to experience intimate partner violence. 

Joeita Gupta brings us along as she learns more about the attitudinal and tangible barriers that women with disabilities face when seeking support in an abusive relationship.

We hear from Marianne Ruffin, an expert in the violence against women sector. She shares her experience with intimate partner violence, and the shortcomings in accessibility training in social services. Malvika D'Costa is a PHD candidate at Western University, and she tells us why women with disabilities are often left out of the conversation about violence against women. Lorris Herrenda, the CEO of Yellow Brick House in Toronto shares how their shelters and programs offer support to women experiencing intimate partner violence. 

If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence,  you can call the Assaulted Women’s Help Line at 1-866-863-0511.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> A Double Assault: Women with Disabilities and Intimate Partner Violence Marianne Ruffin, Malvika D'Costa, Lorris Herrenda, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 Violence against women is an epidemic, and women with disabilities are at a much higher risk to experience intimate partner violence. Joeita Gupta brings us along as she learns more about the attitudinal and tangible barriers that women with disabilities face when seeking support in an abusive relationship. We hear from Marianne Ruffin, an expert in the violence against women sector. She shares her experience with intimate partner violence, and the shortcomings in accessibility training in social services. Malvika D'Costa is a PHD candidate at Western University, and she tells us why women with disabilities are often left out of the conversation about violence against women. Lorris Herrenda, the CEO of Yellow Brick House in Toronto shares how their shelters and programs offer support to women experiencing intimate partner violence. If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, you can call the Assaulted Women’s Help Line at 1-866-863-0511. Violence against women is an epidemic, and women with disabilities are at a much higher risk to experience intimate partner violence. Joeita Gupta brings us along as she learns more about the attitudinal and tangible barriers that women with disabilities face when seeking support in an abusive relationship. We hear from Marianne Ruffin, an expert in the violence against women sector. She shares her experience with intimate partner violence, and the shortcomings in accessibility training in social services. Malvika D'Costa is a PHD candidate at Western University, and she tells us why women with disabilities are often left out of the conversation about violence against women. Lorris Herrenda, the CEO of Yellow Brick House in Toronto shares how their shelters and programs offer support to women experiencing intimate partner violence. If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, you can call the Assaulted Women’s Help Line at 1-866-863-0511. dv, caregiver, disability, relationship, gender, gender violence, ipv false full 6 1 8fcb368b-bcc1-44d3-9b28-a85daf5172b0 The Pressure of High Performance: Canadian Men’s Goalball Team at the 2025 Americas The 2025 IBSA Goalball American Championship that took place this July was a qualifying competition that brought together top men’s and women’s national goalball teams from across the Americas. The Paralympic Training Center in São Paulo, Brazil hosted 22 teams over 8 days of goalball competition. We follow the Canadian Men’s Goalball Team through their trip, the prep and grind it took to get to this moment, and how they maneuvered together under the pressure of high performance with a new team, new coaches, and high steaks leading up to the LA 2028 Paralympics.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 9 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/canadian-mens-goalball-team-at-the-2025-americas-Oi56deIB The 2025 IBSA Goalball American Championship that took place this July was a qualifying competition that brought together top men’s and women’s national goalball teams from across the Americas. The Paralympic Training Center in São Paulo, Brazil hosted 22 teams over 8 days of goalball competition. We follow the Canadian Men’s Goalball Team through their trip, the prep and grind it took to get to this moment, and how they maneuvered together under the pressure of high performance with a new team, new coaches, and high steaks leading up to the LA 2028 Paralympics.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> The Pressure of High Performance: Canadian Men’s Goalball Team at the 2025 Americas Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:27:00 The 2025 IBSA Goalball American Championship that took place this July was a qualifying competition that brought together top men’s and women’s national goalball teams from across the Americas. The Paralympic Training Center in São Paulo, Brazil hosted 22 teams over 8 days of goalball competition. We follow the Canadian Men’s Goalball Team through their trip, the prep and grind it took to get to this moment, and how they maneuvered together under the pressure of high performance with a new team, new coaches, and high steaks leading up to the LA 2028 Paralympics. The 2025 IBSA Goalball American Championship that took place this July was a qualifying competition that brought together top men’s and women’s national goalball teams from across the Americas. The Paralympic Training Center in São Paulo, Brazil hosted 22 teams over 8 days of goalball competition. We follow the Canadian Men’s Goalball Team through their trip, the prep and grind it took to get to this moment, and how they maneuvered together under the pressure of high performance with a new team, new coaches, and high steaks leading up to the LA 2028 Paralympics. adaptive sports, paralympics, brazil, sports, para sports, international, blind sports false full 5 1 1d000c67-03b4-4cc9-b4fc-2c081c0753ee Lavender: A Hidden Force We Might Not Know About What do you know about Lavender? Kelly MacDonald takes a visit to Sparta Lavender Farm, 3km east of the historic village of Sparta, located in Aylmer, Ontario. We meet the couple behind the farm, Karen Parr and Bert Floyd, who help us explore everything we ever wanted to know about Lavender. Kelly and others on the group tour take a Sound Bath, offered as a relaxation practice by Michele Kujawa, Soundbath Artist and Holistic Massage and Reiki Practitioner. Nature connects us in such incredible ways, so let's tap into some of its magic through Lavender.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Karen Parr, Bert Floyd, Michele Kujawa, Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/lavender-Mx_1F9_K What do you know about Lavender? Kelly MacDonald takes a visit to Sparta Lavender Farm, 3km east of the historic village of Sparta, located in Aylmer, Ontario. We meet the couple behind the farm, Karen Parr and Bert Floyd, who help us explore everything we ever wanted to know about Lavender. Kelly and others on the group tour take a Sound Bath, offered as a relaxation practice by Michele Kujawa, Soundbath Artist and Holistic Massage and Reiki Practitioner. Nature connects us in such incredible ways, so let's tap into some of its magic through Lavender.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Lavender: A Hidden Force We Might Not Know About Karen Parr, Bert Floyd, Michele Kujawa, Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 What do you know about Lavender? Kelly MacDonald takes a visit to Sparta Lavender Farm, 3km east of the historic village of Sparta, located in Aylmer, Ontario. We meet the couple behind the farm, Karen Parr and Bert Floyd, who help us explore everything we ever wanted to know about Lavender. Kelly and others on the group tour take a Sound Bath, offered as a relaxation practice by Michele Kujawa, Soundbath Artist and Holistic Massage and Reiki Practitioner. Nature connects us in such incredible ways, so let's tap into some of its magic through Lavender. What do you know about Lavender? Kelly MacDonald takes a visit to Sparta Lavender Farm, 3km east of the historic village of Sparta, located in Aylmer, Ontario. We meet the couple behind the farm, Karen Parr and Bert Floyd, who help us explore everything we ever wanted to know about Lavender. Kelly and others on the group tour take a Sound Bath, offered as a relaxation practice by Michele Kujawa, Soundbath Artist and Holistic Massage and Reiki Practitioner. Nature connects us in such incredible ways, so let's tap into some of its magic through Lavender. health, alternative, holistic, wellness, london false full 4 1 867ba7c9-e29e-4111-9b08-24447edbc196 Canada Disability Benefit: Facts and Fiction The Canada Disability Benefit was announced earlier this summer with much fanfare. Proponents tout it as the first of its kind: a program designed to lift Canadians with disabilities out of poverty. Eligible Canadians can get as much as $2400 annually.

But does it live up to the hype?

Joeita Gupta takes us through a deep dive into the policy, application process, and real-life effects of the benefit. We hear from members of the disability community to gauge what the application process is like. We meet Keila Alex Echakowitz, who believed that the Canada Disability Benefit would boost their income until they were met with a 10% claw back, and the harsh reality that this government program will not help them to move out of their parent’s home. To find some clarification on the policies and eligibility requirements, we hear from Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. Asif Khan is the Research and Policy Coordinator of the Income Security Advocacy Centre, and he tells us why the Disability Tax Credit and Canada Disability Benefit are extremely problematic, reflects on where there is room for improving the CDB, and what genuine economic justice for people with disabilities looks like. While this benefit is the result of years of advocacy, these stories explain the shortcomings of the Canada Disability Benefit and the changes that need to be made to make long lasting and life changing differences for people with disabilities.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 4 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Keila Alex Echakowitz, Patty Hajdu, Asif Khan, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/canada-disability-benefit-facts-and-fiction-_mc1Pl2q The Canada Disability Benefit was announced earlier this summer with much fanfare. Proponents tout it as the first of its kind: a program designed to lift Canadians with disabilities out of poverty. Eligible Canadians can get as much as $2400 annually.

But does it live up to the hype?

Joeita Gupta takes us through a deep dive into the policy, application process, and real-life effects of the benefit. We hear from members of the disability community to gauge what the application process is like. We meet Keila Alex Echakowitz, who believed that the Canada Disability Benefit would boost their income until they were met with a 10% claw back, and the harsh reality that this government program will not help them to move out of their parent’s home. To find some clarification on the policies and eligibility requirements, we hear from Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. Asif Khan is the Research and Policy Coordinator of the Income Security Advocacy Centre, and he tells us why the Disability Tax Credit and Canada Disability Benefit are extremely problematic, reflects on where there is room for improving the CDB, and what genuine economic justice for people with disabilities looks like. While this benefit is the result of years of advocacy, these stories explain the shortcomings of the Canada Disability Benefit and the changes that need to be made to make long lasting and life changing differences for people with disabilities.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Canada Disability Benefit: Facts and Fiction Keila Alex Echakowitz, Patty Hajdu, Asif Khan, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:00 The Canada Disability Benefit was announced earlier this summer with much fanfare. Proponents tout it as the first of its kind: a program designed to lift Canadians with disabilities out of poverty. Eligible Canadians can get as much as $2400 annually. But does it live up to the hype? Joeita Gupta takes us through a deep dive into the policy, application process, and real-life effects of the benefit. We hear from members of the disability community to gauge what the application process is like. We meet Keila Alex Echakowitz, who believed that the Canada Disability Benefit would boost their income until they were met with a 10% claw back, and the harsh reality that this government program will not help them to move out of their parent’s home. To find some clarification on the policies and eligibility requirements, we hear from Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. Asif Khan is the Research and Policy Coordinator of the Income Security Advocacy Centre, and he tells us why the Disability Tax Credit and Canada Disability Benefit are extremely problematic, reflects on where there is room for improving the CDB, and what genuine economic justice for people with disabilities looks like. While this benefit is the result of years of advocacy, these stories explain the shortcomings of the Canada Disability Benefit and the changes that need to be made to make long lasting and life changing differences for people with disabilities. The Canada Disability Benefit was announced earlier this summer with much fanfare. Proponents tout it as the first of its kind: a program designed to lift Canadians with disabilities out of poverty. Eligible Canadians can get as much as $2400 annually. But does it live up to the hype? Joeita Gupta takes us through a deep dive into the policy, application process, and real-life effects of the benefit. We hear from members of the disability community to gauge what the application process is like. We meet Keila Alex Echakowitz, who believed that the Canada Disability Benefit would boost their income until they were met with a 10% claw back, and the harsh reality that this government program will not help them to move out of their parent’s home. To find some clarification on the policies and eligibility requirements, we hear from Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. Asif Khan is the Research and Policy Coordinator of the Income Security Advocacy Centre, and he tells us why the Disability Tax Credit and Canada Disability Benefit are extremely problematic, reflects on where there is room for improving the CDB, and what genuine economic justice for people with disabilities looks like. While this benefit is the result of years of advocacy, these stories explain the shortcomings of the Canada Disability Benefit and the changes that need to be made to make long lasting and life changing differences for people with disabilities. minister, disability, policy, government, tax credit, government program false full 3 1 ffe69f74-a78b-4fe5-a30d-7698fd2fef4a Mirror, Mirror, Accessible To All: Inclusion in the Beauty Industry Makeup isn’t just about beauty. For many people who are blind, low-vision, or living with a disability, it’s also about self-expression, empowerment, and identity. But the beauty industry hasn’t always made space for everyone’s needs. Lead by her own love for makeup, Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores what it means to find beauty for people with disabilities. We meet Maria Santiago, a makeup influencer and content creator pushing for more inclusive conversations and honest reviews in the beauty world. We also head to Toronto’s Eaton Centre to see how accessible big-name stores like MAC and Sephora really are, from store layouts to customer service. Finally, we sit down with Trishna Daswaney, Founder of the UK-based brand Kohl Kreatives, which designs adaptive makeup tools built with inclusion at the core. These stories explore what inclusive beauty looks like at the moment, and what it could be if we continue to figure it out together.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 2 Sep 2025 17:30:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Maria Santiago, Trishna Daswaney, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/mirror-mirror-accessible-to-all-inclusion-in-the-beauty-industry-umTRDNLm Makeup isn’t just about beauty. For many people who are blind, low-vision, or living with a disability, it’s also about self-expression, empowerment, and identity. But the beauty industry hasn’t always made space for everyone’s needs. Lead by her own love for makeup, Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores what it means to find beauty for people with disabilities. We meet Maria Santiago, a makeup influencer and content creator pushing for more inclusive conversations and honest reviews in the beauty world. We also head to Toronto’s Eaton Centre to see how accessible big-name stores like MAC and Sephora really are, from store layouts to customer service. Finally, we sit down with Trishna Daswaney, Founder of the UK-based brand Kohl Kreatives, which designs adaptive makeup tools built with inclusion at the core. These stories explore what inclusive beauty looks like at the moment, and what it could be if we continue to figure it out together.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mirror, Mirror, Accessible To All: Inclusion in the Beauty Industry Maria Santiago, Trishna Daswaney, Ramya Amuthan, Nisreen Abdel-Majid 00:28:00 Makeup isn’t just about beauty. For many people who are blind, low-vision, or living with a disability, it’s also about self-expression, empowerment, and identity. But the beauty industry hasn’t always made space for everyone’s needs. Lead by her own love for makeup, Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores what it means to find beauty for people with disabilities. We meet Maria Santiago, a makeup influencer and content creator pushing for more inclusive conversations and honest reviews in the beauty world. We also head to Toronto’s Eaton Centre to see how accessible big-name stores like MAC and Sephora really are, from store layouts to customer service. Finally, we sit down with Trishna Daswaney, Founder of the UK-based brand Kohl Kreatives, which designs adaptive makeup tools built with inclusion at the core. These stories explore what inclusive beauty looks like at the moment, and what it could be if we continue to figure it out together. Makeup isn’t just about beauty. For many people who are blind, low-vision, or living with a disability, it’s also about self-expression, empowerment, and identity. But the beauty industry hasn’t always made space for everyone’s needs. Lead by her own love for makeup, Nisreen Abdel-Majid explores what it means to find beauty for people with disabilities. We meet Maria Santiago, a makeup influencer and content creator pushing for more inclusive conversations and honest reviews in the beauty world. We also head to Toronto’s Eaton Centre to see how accessible big-name stores like MAC and Sephora really are, from store layouts to customer service. Finally, we sit down with Trishna Daswaney, Founder of the UK-based brand Kohl Kreatives, which designs adaptive makeup tools built with inclusion at the core. These stories explore what inclusive beauty looks like at the moment, and what it could be if we continue to figure it out together. kohl kreatives, beauty, universal design, disability, makeup, make-up, make up, accessibility, inclusive false full 2 1 86d21cfe-baf6-414d-8f1b-f4222faf4fcc A Trip We Haven't Been On Yet: The Remarkable Story of The Trans-Canada Highway Mark Richardson recently authored The Drive Across Canada: The Remarkable Story
of the Trans-Canada Highway, published on June 3, 2025. Kelly MacDonald and Mark Richardson take us on a fascinating journey along the coast-to-coast highway, reflecting on Mark’s countless trips and many stories. Michelle Higgins, who hit a moose in 2012 near Gander, Newfoundland, ended up in a relationship with Stephen Bromley of Conch, Newfoundland, after he experienced the same situation years later. We meet Kari Gunson of Peterborough, who helps to build tunnels for reptiles beneath the highway, and Terry Hoddinott, a blind tandem cyclist who utilized the Trans-Canada Highway while participating in a fundraiser near and dear to his heart. Let’s take the highway together and learn a little history, through the magic of these timeless stories.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 2 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Mark Richardson, Michelle Higgins, Stephen Bromley, Terry Hoddinott, Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/a-trip-we-havent-been-on-yet-the-remarkable-story-of-the-trans-canada-highway-MJ7f9vd3 Mark Richardson recently authored The Drive Across Canada: The Remarkable Story
of the Trans-Canada Highway, published on June 3, 2025. Kelly MacDonald and Mark Richardson take us on a fascinating journey along the coast-to-coast highway, reflecting on Mark’s countless trips and many stories. Michelle Higgins, who hit a moose in 2012 near Gander, Newfoundland, ended up in a relationship with Stephen Bromley of Conch, Newfoundland, after he experienced the same situation years later. We meet Kari Gunson of Peterborough, who helps to build tunnels for reptiles beneath the highway, and Terry Hoddinott, a blind tandem cyclist who utilized the Trans-Canada Highway while participating in a fundraiser near and dear to his heart. Let’s take the highway together and learn a little history, through the magic of these timeless stories.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> A Trip We Haven't Been On Yet: The Remarkable Story of The Trans-Canada Highway Mark Richardson, Michelle Higgins, Stephen Bromley, Terry Hoddinott, Kelly MacDonald, Ramya Amuthan 00:28:30 Mark Richardson recently authored The Drive Across Canada: The Remarkable Story of the Trans-Canada Highway, published on June 3, 2025. Kelly MacDonald and Mark Richardson take us on a fascinating journey along the coast-to-coast highway, reflecting on Mark’s countless trips and many stories. Michelle Higgins, who hit a moose in 2012 near Gander, Newfoundland, ended up in a relationship with Stephen Bromley of Conch, Newfoundland, after he experienced the same situation years later. We meet Kari Gunson of Peterborough, who helps to build tunnels for reptiles beneath the highway, and Terry Hoddinott, a blind tandem cyclist who utilized the Trans-Canada Highway while participating in a fundraiser near and dear to his heart. Let’s take the highway together and learn a little history, through the magic of these timeless stories. Mark Richardson recently authored The Drive Across Canada: The Remarkable Story of the Trans-Canada Highway, published on June 3, 2025. Kelly MacDonald and Mark Richardson take us on a fascinating journey along the coast-to-coast highway, reflecting on Mark’s countless trips and many stories. Michelle Higgins, who hit a moose in 2012 near Gander, Newfoundland, ended up in a relationship with Stephen Bromley of Conch, Newfoundland, after he experienced the same situation years later. We meet Kari Gunson of Peterborough, who helps to build tunnels for reptiles beneath the highway, and Terry Hoddinott, a blind tandem cyclist who utilized the Trans-Canada Highway while participating in a fundraiser near and dear to his heart. Let’s take the highway together and learn a little history, through the magic of these timeless stories. provinces, travel, canadian, infastructure, history, road trip, transit, vacation false full 1 1 ae0cf8c6-236a-4c5d-89e3-d117bda15b18 Show Trailer Reflections launches September 2, 2025 on AMI-audio and podcast platforms.  New episodes every Tuesday to Friday.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 15:18:36 +0000 podcasts@ami.ca (Grant Hardy, Beth Deer, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald) https://reflections-c67d47bc.simplecast.com/episodes/show-trailer-ZThWpDGc Reflections launches September 2, 2025 on AMI-audio and podcast platforms.  New episodes every Tuesday to Friday.

About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+

Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online:


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Show Trailer Grant Hardy, Beth Deer, Nisreen Abdel-Majid, Joeita Gupta, Ramya Amuthan, Kelly MacDonald 00:00:30 Reflections launches September 2, 2025 on AMI-audio and podcast platforms. New episodes every Tuesday to Friday. Reflections launches September 2, 2025 on AMI-audio and podcast platforms. New episodes every Tuesday to Friday. kelly and company, the pulse, trailer, new podcast, new show false trailer 1