Inspirations News Podcast

In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we shine a light on something truly special happening at Beechwood Elementary: the Kindness Club. Host Mark Bergman sits down with Special Education Technician Maria Giannoumis and students Sofia, Jade, and Layla to explore how this student-led initiative is helping create a more caring and inclusive school environment. Through heartfelt stories of...

In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we explore the power of sport, community, and inclusion through the lens of Motionball Montreal. We’re joined by athletes Domenic Morency and Robert Lemieux, who share their personal journeys, the confidence they’ve built through sport, and what being part of Special Olympics Canada means to them. Their stories are a powerful reminder that sport go...

On this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, Mark Bergman sits down with three inspiring keynote speakers from the Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour:  Samara O’Gorman, Sara Levitt, and Maryam Ganni. Each of these remarkable women shares a powerful story of resilience and purpose, using their personal journeys to connect with and inspire today’s younger generation. Together, they reflect on the momen...

In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast , we highlight Les Colocs de l’Ouest , a first-of-its-kind non-profit housing project in Montreal’s West Island. The initiative is creating 11 adapted apartments for young adults on the autism spectrum, offering not only a place to live, but a supportive environment that encourages independence and belonging. The project is sponsored by la Fondation...

From August 25 to 29, Montréal welcomes the Mobility Cup —Canada’s international regatta for sailors with disabilities. Hosted this year at the Pointe-Claire Yacht Club, in partnership with the Association Québécoise de voile adaptée (AQVA), the event showcases not only competitive sailing but also resilience, independence, and the belief that anyone can sail . In this episode, we’re joined by Pau...

In this special episode, we explore Ben’s Animals , a stunning new documentary premiering June 28 on CBC and CBC Gem at 8pm. The film follows 23-year-old Ben Lachapelle, an autistic artist and passionate environmentalist whose deep connection to animals and nature shapes his powerful artwork—and his voice. We speak with Ben, his mother Julie Lachapelle, award-winning filmmaker Evan Beloff, and com...

In celebration of  la semaine québécoise des personnes handicapées, we’re joined by internationally acclaimed breakdancer, motivational speaker, and disability advocate Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli . Luca reflects on this year’s theme — “When we only see the difference, we lose sight of potential." From defying expectations on the dance floor to empowering youth through his “No excuses, no limits...

On this episode, we’re exploring a game-changing initiative at St-Hubert restaurants that’s transforming the dining experience for the autism community. With the help of Giant Steps , St-Hubert is setting a new standard in the restaurant industry with sensory-friendly spaces, comprehensive staff training, and a commitment to inclusive hiring.   Joining host Mark Bergman to discuss this initiative...

February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAIM) , a time to celebrate the power of inclusion. This episode highlights the Shira Choir , a beloved Montreal choir that gives neurodivergent singers a space to shine. Join us as we explore the choir’s impact, its growth, and the joy of music with: 🎵 Reverend Hazan Daniel Benlolo – Co-founder & Choir Director 🎵 Re...

Meet Alessia Iglio, the inspiring force behind the DisTheDis movement. Diagnosed with dyspraxia and on the autism spectrum, she’s turned her personal challenges into a mission to redefine what it means to live with a disability. In this episode, Alessia and her dad Pietro share her journey of resilience and how she’s empowering others to see ability where others may see limits. Join us for a power...

Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of the Imagine Festival , happening on August 4th at the Dunany Country Club. Presented by 4 Korners, this inclusive, free arts and family-fun festival celebrates autistic and neurodiverse creativity, showcasing artists of varying abilities while offering fun for the entire family. In this episode, we talk to one of the featured artists, Zach Reisman from...

What an incredible day at the grand opening of Pigeon dans le Parc in Hampstead Park! Listen, as Eve Rochman, Founding Director of Zera Café , Jonathan Dresner, owner of Pigeon Café , and Matthew Flanz, who works at Pigeon dans le Parc, chat with Mark Bergman about the café’s mission to blend great coffee with meaningful employment for neurodivergent adults. 

In this episode, we're delving into the Galileo Adult Center's Social Integration Work Preparation Program, a beacon of hope for students! Join Nancy Leopardi, Ruby Ipekian, and Erica Farina, along with their teacher Luciana Franceschini, as they share their empowering journey. Discover how this program not only prepared them for their work stages, but also empowered them to thrive withi...

This episode spotlights the inspiring art exhibition featured at the 3rd annual JDAIM vernissage, a collaborative effort between Ometz , L’Annexe , and the Cummings Centre .  Host Mark Bergman leads an engaging conversation with two talented artists, Sarah Aspler and Benny Wark, exploring the profound ways in which art shapes their lives and serves as a vehicle for self-expression. Lanya McClintoc...

The I Can Dream Theatre is back!! Our guests share their experiences of not being together as a group for three long years and the joyous reunion that fueled the creation of this magnificent production. Listen in as Gabriel and Ainslie open up about the profound role that acting plays in their lives and how the stage becomes a canvas for self-expression. Director Ada Masciarelli, provides insights...

We'll talk about the Technology Recycling Social Participation Program at the Huntingdon Adult Education Centre. Students  are fixing up old laptops and tablets with issues like broken hardware or outdated software. They're either taking them apart or finding clever ways to make them work like new. Leading the charge are two awesome teachers, Kathleen Hacken and Michael Werenchuk. Michae...

Discover the heartwarming vision behind Café Soleil, a coffee shop that's making a real difference in the community. Host Mark Bergman talks with with Maia Cooper, Executive Director of JEM Workshop , Sara Levy, Job Coach at JEM, and Elaine Katzefman, a Café Soleil team member. They discuss the importance of inclusivity, employment opportunities, and the impact this initiative has on the comm...

BullyingCanada is holding its first-ever Musicians Rock Against Bullying night on Thursday November 9 at 7 pm at Macallan’s Pub in Dorval. Five bands will each perform a personalized setlist of cover songs during the night. All revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships will go to BullyingCanada. A 50/50 draw and a silent auction will also be held at the event. Tickets are available for $50 at bul...

A new collaboration between the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) and Special Olympics Quebec was established this year, led by the Centre of Excellence for the Physically, Intellectually and Multi-Challenged (CoE PIM), the EMSB’s department of Student Services and department of Educational Services. On this episode, Mark Bergman will chat with Sarah Lynch -  Special Education Consultant at the...

On this episode we introduce you to Alink Foundation , a nonprofit community organization in Montreal, Quebec — a group of families and supporters joined by a common bond. Their mission is to: enhance the health and well-being of our adult children provide them with opportunities to participate as valued members of society, develop in them a sense of belonging and help them live meaningful and dig...

"From Strength to Strength", the 2nd annual multigenerational art exhibition in honour of JDAIM, featured diverse artists from L'Annexe: the Ometz Centre for Young Adults, Ometz, the Cummings Centre, Alink, Moishe House Montreal, the Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA, and more! On this episode we'll talk to two featured artists: Kessem Vaknin and Abram Friedland. As well as Lanya McClintock...

From what started as a program to keep special needs adults busy during the pandemic, Power Buddies MTL has grown into an unstoppable group of superheroes. Power Buddies MTL offers group activities in person and on zoom giving everyone the opportunity to communicate, make new friends, and sharpen social skills. Through their interactive program, our activities improve the body, and mind. In this e...

Hear Entendre Quebec have announced the much anticipated return of their fully accessible comedy show Access Comedy, taking place on September 25th over at the Paradox Theatre . During this podcast, host Mark Bergman will talk to Executive Director Heidy Wager and comedian Abby Stonehouse about the show, and what accessibility looks like in 2022.

Get behind the scenes insight of the Fun Fashion For All show, that took place at The Mackay Center on June 9th. Mark Bergman chats with Simon Chang, Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli, Christina Sollazzo, and student organizers Ella and Bella! Enjoy!

Following Federation CJA West Island's arm-chair interview with Jana Popliger, Maya Sinclair, and Rabbi Fishman, Mark Bergman sat down and chatted with both Maya & Jana. Learn more about her road to her Bat Mitzvah, and some of the hurdles they encountered.