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 composer Steven Atme, who take us behind the scenes of the documentary. Together, they reflect on the h...
Jun 19, 2025•15 min
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” philosophy, Luca shares his powerful journey of turning perceived limitations into strengths, and what i...
Jun 02, 2025•12 min
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 are Josée Vaillancourt, Director of Communications for The St-Hubert Group and Director of the St-Hube...
Apr 03, 2025•18 min
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 🎵 Rebecca Bensimon – Choir Volunteer 🎵 Choir Participants – Yosef Robinson, Adena Schnarch & Robert...
Feb 17, 2025•23 min
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 powerful conversation about overcoming adversity, changing perceptions, and embracing the power of abilit...
Sep 16, 2024•17 min
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 Zach Designs , along with his mom Lorri Benedik. Zach shares his journey into the world of art, his ...
Jul 24, 2024•13 min
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.
Jul 07, 2024•7 min
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 within it. From essential skills to workplace dynamics, their stories highlight the transformative impact of suppor...
Mar 19, 2024•17 min
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 McClintock, manager of L’Annexe, will join us to introduce our guests. We'll delve into the diverse stories an...
Mar 04, 2024•15 min
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 into the creative process and the collaborative spirit that defines I Can Dream Theatre. Join us fo...
Jan 30, 2024•16 min
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. Michael, who teaches SIS, joins us on the podcast, along with two of his students, Stephanie Latreille and Jeremy Car...
Dec 08, 2023•15 min
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 community. Join us for an inspiring conversation about Café Soleil's mission to brew inclusion, one cup at a ...
Oct 31, 2023•19 min
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 bullyingcanada.ca/rock . A tax receipt will be issued....
Sep 18, 2023•12 min
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 EMSB, John Caboto Academy student Christopher Reynel Mora who took part in the Olympiad day, teacher...
Jun 27, 2023•15 min
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 dignified lives build with them an inclusive community—that is, one in which they live, work and social...
Apr 18, 2023•23 min
"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 - the Manager of L’Annexe.
Feb 20, 2023•20 min
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 episode, Mark Bergman chats with founders Muhan Patel, Ghida Monla and Petros Lazanis . As well as Po...
Jan 31, 2023•20 min
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.
Sep 14, 2022•19 min
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!
Jun 27, 2022•24 min
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.
Jun 06, 2022•19 min
Summit School Tech program has opened a café inside Maimonides Geriatric Centre. It's a fully functional cafe that serves two purposes: training students, as well as serving and interacting with the centre's residents. Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with Maimonides Development Officer, Lisa Kasner - Job Integration Specialist, Thomas Saviolidis - And Onder, who works at the café!Enjoy!
May 16, 2022•15 min
We're focusing on mental health on this edition of our podcast. The Glee Club at Vincent Massey Collegiate, better knows as the Clef Notes, performed at the Just For Kids Voices competition, which raised money for mental health awareness at the Montreal Children’s Hospital! Listen as Mark Bergman chats with teacher Alessandra Martoccia, Sec V student August Di Liello, and Sec IV student Charlotte Renaud.
Apr 26, 2022•14 min
Listen to how Anna Maria Civitella started an initiative of collecting toys with a range of different abilities, so that students at The Mackay Center and Phillip E Layton schools can use them. We'll also chat with grade 5 student Ella, who will share her thoughts on how these new toys relate to her and her friends.*Photo credit: CIUSSS West-Central Montreal.
Apr 01, 2022•12 min
In this episode, Mark Bergman chat with Kevin James Reason (Liam's father) & Christine Tellier about the foundation's mission and goals, and how you can support the foundation.
Feb 10, 2022•16 min
It's been another challenging year for us all, yet with every challenge they're faced the students at Galileo Adult Center & Mackay Center Philip E Layton always find the silver lining. There's ALWAYS something to be grateful for!
Dec 20, 2021•9 min
Looking for greeting cards this holiday season? Check our www.zachdesigns.ca The business is run by Zach Reisman, who is an illustrator and 3D artist. Zach, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder, runs the business together with his mother Lorri Benedik, and they both joined Mark Bergman to share their story.
Nov 29, 2021•15 min
On this episode you'll learn about a support concept, for families with special needs, called Circles Of Support. Evelyn Lusthaus has a support circle for her daughter Hanna, who has Downs Syndrome. Mark chats with them both, as well as Hanna’s long time network facilitator, advocate for people with disabilities and their families, Nancy Rother.For more, please visit http://www.inspirationsnews.com/inspirations
Nov 12, 2021•27 min
On this episode, we shine light on the Art & Soul program at Wagar Adult Education Center. The class focuses on teaching social skills through art. The class has also become very passionate about the topic of residential schools, as they've been learning about issues related to our indigenous communities. Host, Mark Bergman chats with students Jessica Teixeira-Pinto as well as Branden, and Social Integration Teacher Anna Persichilli. Have a listen...
Oct 08, 2021•19 min
The C.A.R.E. Center in Cote-Saint-Luc is fundraising and looking to connect with former students. On this episode, you'll hear why CARE, a non profit recreational and educational center for adults over the age of 21 with physical disabilities, is such a vital part of our community. Guests:Joanne Charron, PresidentOlivia Quesnel, Executive Director Tamar Hertz, Board member, parent, Wagar Highscool AlumnaAlain Chamass, C.A.R.E. Client Alain is nonverbal and will be using a Dynavox computer to com...
Jun 09, 2021•23 min
An integral part of the Shriners Hospital, the Child Life department aims to help kids (and parents!) normalize their hospital experience by reducing stress and cope during medical procedures. Listen as Mark Bergman chats with Child Life Specialist Angie Gugliotti, as well as parent Christine Elvidge, 10 year old Sari Bennet, and Keera Taylor who recently completed her internship at the hospital. Keera created an unbelievable project where patients created their own Tik Tok videos!
May 16, 2021•15 min
