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 friendship, empathy, and personal growth, we hear how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. From building confidence to creating connection, these students show us what it truly means to lead with kindness, one moment, one action at a time.

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 goes far beyond competition—it builds connection, purpose, and pride.We’re also joined by Event Director at Motion Ball Montreal, Brittany Ladora, and Gina Faga, Domenic’s mother, who offers a heartfelt parent’s perspective on the impact of sport, inclusion, and community support.Together, this conversation highlights what inclusion truly looks like—and how movements like motionball are helping create a more connected and compassionate community.

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 moments that shaped their journeys, the impact of sharing their stories with students, and what empathy truly means in today’s world. It’s an honest and uplifting conversation about empathy, resilience, and the power of using your voice to make a difference. 🎙️

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 Autisme et Toit, which supports adapted housing initiatives across Montreal with a shared mission of promoting inclusion, respect, and quality of life.Joining host Mark Bergman, are Jean-Rémi Mayrand, President and Co-Founder of Les Colocs de l’Ouest, whose son Lucas will be moving in soon, and Basil Favis, Chair of the Parents’ Committee, along with his son Christopher, who will also be among the first residents. Together, they share the vision and personal stories behind this impactful project.Join them for their Valentine's Day 2026 Supper & Show Fundraising event! Details here: https://shorturl.at/5TKqs

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 Paula Stone, Vice President of AQVA, who has been championing adaptive sailing for nearly three decades, and Marc Villeneuve, a longtime AQVA member and experienced Mobility Cup participant. Together, they share stories of the life-changing impact of adaptive sailing, and the camaraderie that defines the Mobility Cup.Whether you’re a sailor, a sports fan, or simply curious about the power of inclusion, this conversation will leave you inspired—and maybe even ready to set sail yourself!

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 healing power of creativity, the journey of neurodivergence, and the bond between a mother and son navigating the world—through art.Whether you’re an artist, parent, educator, or advocate, this episode is a celebration of inclusion, imagination, and the courage to be seen.

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 it really means to see the person, not just the difference.Whether you’re a fan of dance, advocacy, or stories that shift your mindset, this episode will move you — literally and figuratively!

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-Hubert Foundation, Alex Duquette, a St-Hubert franchise owner (Des Laurentides) in Laval, and Alain Bessette, Inclusive Employment Initiatives Manager at Giant Steps.  How did this collaboration come to life? What does an inclusive dining experience look like? And how is St-Hubert ensuring accessibility in both its restaurants and workforce? We’ll dive into all of it in this insightful conversation about the future of inclusivity in the restaurant industry.

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 LemieuxListen in for inspiring stories and find out how music creates a more inclusive world! 🎧

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 ability.

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 experiences at the festival, and the joy he finds in creating.We'll also be chatting with Jaime Bisaillon, the Neurodiversity Program Manager at 4 Korners. Jaime provides insight into the mission of 4 Korners and the goals of the Imagine Festival, emphasizing the importance of celebrating and supporting neurodiverse talent.Tune in to hear about the inspiration behind the festival, the amazing artists involved, and what you can expect when you attend this fantastic event. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming episode that highlights the beauty of neurodiverse creativity and community spirit.

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 within it. From essential skills to workplace dynamics, their stories highlight the transformative impact of support, understanding, and opportunity.

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 and perspectives behind the artwork on display, celebrating the transformative power of creativity and fostering meaningful connections!Enjoy!

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 for a conversation about the power of theatre, the camaraderie that fuels creativity, and the magic of expressing oneself through acting.

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 Caron.

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 time.

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.  

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 Alba Cano-Juarez and Madeleine Sinclair from Special Olympics Quebec.Enjoy!

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 childrenprovide them with opportunities to participate as valued members of society, develop in them a sense of belonging and help them live meaningful and dignified livesbuild with them an inclusive community—that is, one in which they live, work and socialize along with the rest of the community, not segregated from others.Mark Bergman chats with Alink's President and Chair - Harriet Sugar Miller, Program Manager Matthew Selvin , and Adam Kleen - a participant who is directly receiving services from the foundation.Enjoy!

"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.

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 Power Buddies members Dayna Wiseman & Ariel Mechaly

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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...

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 communicate.Fundraising link: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/the-c-a-r-e-centre/p2p/wagaralumni25/

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!

Check out this incredibly inspiring conversation with teachers and students of Galileo Adult Education Center, about their I Belong Project, and how this digital storytelling journey led them to the Hands On Media Film Festival!Joining us on this episode:Martina Schaivone - Galileo PrincipalLisa Trotto - SIS TeacherJessie Curell- Hands on Media Founder Alexis Gerin Lajoie - SIS Student & film creatorAlex Ponte - SIS Student & film creator Important links: Film festival playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGt9P_lNtQxHZbihVVfVvirL8HkGJiaDG Full length virtual film festival video recorded live: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVBrvKXBskk&t=5s Alex Ponte’s (Djbigdog 2.0) YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpzouwtqwI4sNx_IjrRWb4A

Our 2 part series on Montreal social enterprises continues, with an in depth chat about the importance of social enterprise in our society and what it takes to launch. Joining Mark Bergman are founder and director of Zera Cafe- Eve Rochman, as well a Zera Cafe cook- Ricky Malus!

In celebration of Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month in Montreal, GenMTL's Pay it Forward for Purim initiative, along with DeLaMie Bakery saw 200 Purim Baskets go out to people in the Montreal community. Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with fundraiser organizers and members of the DeLaMie bakery, about the importance of social enterprise in Montreal!

Casey Remrov Vormer, is an award-winning artist, autism advocate and new author of "The Autism Spectrum: How To Talk, How To Listen, And Why You Shouldn't Call It High-Functioning". Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with Casey about his new book, and what life has been like during the last 6 months during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Take a listen behind the scenes, about what inspired the Friendship Revolution. The film follows the year long journey of sixty teens and young adults, with and without disabilities, co-creating innovative projects to break down the barriers to inclusion. Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with Leibel Rodal, Steven Abad, Dr. Liz Cooper, Eva Levin, and Mushka Rom.

The last few months have been a challenge for us all. But how did the sudden break in routine, affect those living with autism? Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with Kelly Bron Johnson, founder and consultant at Completely Inclusive, and Steve Atme, singer, producer, writer, and the director of the movie, the Power Of One. They'll discuss the challenges, but also some of the good that's come out of this pandemic!

Alison Levine is ranked #1 in the world in boccia, a sport for physically disabled athletes. As she was in the final stages of preparation for the 2020 Paralympics, COVID-19 hit, and it was decided that the games would be postponed until next summer. Join Mark Bergman, as he chats with Alison about how learning to adapt has been crucial in preparing her for how to deal with isolation and preparation for summer 2021.

Five friends, all diagnosed with autism/aspergers, created a film where they share their accomplishments, hoping to inspire viewers to follow their dreams. The Power Of One, is about inclusion and diversity despite differences with special needs, beliefs, race and rough backgrounds. Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with Steven Atme (producer & director), and Fareed Gul (co-writer, actor & songwriter).The film premiers March 13th & 14th at the Vanier College Auditorium.

This Valentines's Day, we decided to visit the amazing students and staff at the Mackay Centre & Philip E. Layton schools. Mark Bergman asked them about a person they love, why they love that person so much, and how that person makes them feel? Have a listen! You're going to LOVE what they had to say!Special thanks to the following students and staff members for making this podcast so awesome:Paul Michael + DanaEwan, Ainsley & DebraAviBennett & GianninaMacksimMicaiahMarioMichaelNikisha Greg Watson

This year on the Inspirations News Podcast, we will be highlighting difference makers within Montreal's special needs community. Our first Inspirations Difference Maker is well known in the community for his superb fundraising, and his friendly & positive personality. Mark Bergman chats with Ariel Mechaly as well as his sister Naomi Mechaly, about his fundraising for the Walk For Friendship, as well as his employment at Le Chateau.

Mark Bergman visited the Lounge Group at the Friendship Circle of Montreal, to find out about their New Years resolutions. New goals! New foods! New hopes for 2020!❤️🎧You can now subscribe to The Inspirations News Podcast on: Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/InspirationsAppleGoogle Play: https://tinyurl.com/InspirationsGoogle

Vanessa Grimaldi, best known for winning The Bachelor Season 21, has always focused her attention on bringing awareness to students with learning disabilities. Host Mark Bergman chats with Vanessa about the reason why the area of special needs is so important to her, the benefits of the amazing sensory rooms that she has donated, and news about her new podcast! We'll also meet her podcast assistant, Alexander Ferla Coirazza, who opens up about austim and anxiety. Hear Alex's story, and how Vanessa is helping him build up his career and confidence!

Now in their 41st season, Le Hiboux De Montreal is a team composed of visually impaired people in the greater metropolitan area. The team is recognized as a leader in team sports for people with visual disabilities. Mark Bergman chats with players Francois Beauregard and Bruno Hache about the growing popularity of blind hockey, and some of the incredible challenges involved in playing a high intensity sport while being visually impaired.

The Centre for the Arts in Human Development (CAHD) at Concordia University, established in 1996, is an educational, clinical and research centre serving adults with developmental disabilities and other special needs populations. On this episode, Mark Bergman will chat with Director of Clinical Services and Public Outreach, Lenore Vosberg, as well as CAHD member, Robbie Zunenshine. They'll chat about all the amazing services offered at the centre, as well as the big Nikki Yanofsky concert coming up on November 13th!

Mark Bergman chats with Clinical Director of the SCERT Conference, Ed Cukier. We'll be covering everything from independence & autonomy, to sexuality, parental stress, and more! Find out about all the amazing sessions you'll be able to attend, by listening to this episode. Thanks to Marathon Souvlaki for sponsoring this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast!