PWD Allies

PWD Allies podcast host Brent Frain delves into his favourite topic of public transportation & accessibility with an update on the ongoing contract mediation of both Translink in Vancouver and BC Transit in Victoria.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on September 14, 2026.

David Eby's BC NDP gov't overestimated its natural gas revenues by $1.46 billion. Eby dismissed it as an "administrative mistake".And then, David Eby held a press conference / anti-Trump rally that looked like self-parody ripped from an old SNL comedy skit. What should've been a definitive example of BC & Canada standing strong against US tariffs, was instead a poorly orchestrated publicity stunt. A really bad joke.How can British Columbians trust an incompetent BC premier? How can anyone take anything David Eby does seriously when Eby is at the helm of a deeply unserious government?Lastly: Amidst all of this unseriousness, what about people with disabilities living in legislated poverty?PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on September 11, 2026.

Daniel Trayes, candidate for Toronto City Council in Ward 8 Eglinton—Lawrence joins us LIVE! with an election campaign update. We also talk about disability advocacy and lived experience.

Next up on PWD Allies podcast is "Brent's Blender" episode. What we hope will be a potent mix of disability advocacy and audience participation. Come armed with your questions or topics for discussion and join the fun in our live chat.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on August 28, 2026.

Strengthening social supports for people with disabilities. Join a LIVE! panel discussion with our guests Helaine Boyd from Disability Alliance BC and Rowan Burdge, the CEO of BC Poverty Reduction Coalition.Discussion highlight: Using the 2020 Basic Income Panel report and its recommendations as a baseline, with the goal of putting together some best practices to push our provincial government toward more fair & adequate disability income support.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on August 24, 2026.

Mo Amir, host of This Is Vancolour, joins LIVE! as our special guest on PWD Allies podcast.🥳Mo Amir talks BC politics. We discuss how wedged & divisive the political landscape in British Columbia has become, with far-leftist ideologies and the far-right on a collision course.The fact is, David Eby's BC NDP and Kerry-Lynne Findlay's BC Conservatives are both coming off as crazy and unpalatable...and a significant number of British Columbians are feeling "politically homeless" as a result.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on August 21, 2026.

Premier David Eby is a stupid idiot moron as BC burns. As the Pear Lake wildfire burns out of control in Kamloops, and the Bald Range wildfire continues to ravage the Okanagan/Summerland region, David Eby is far more preoccupied with only serving five percent of BC's Indigenous than protecting the sovereign and democratic rights for 95% of British Columbians. Not only is the province burning down with fire, it's also being destroyed by radical BC NDP DEI & DRIPA ideologies that completely disrespect the forward momentum of Canada's history.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on August 14, 2026.

Persons with disabilities are pleading: "Show me the money!"The provincial ministry in charge of Disability Income Assistance brags about having over $2 billion in reserve for things like rent & food 'crisis supplements', yet frontline support workers & politicians alike keep that $2 billion locked away and will instead gaslight anyone who desperately needs the extra help.The problem is two-fold. First, Disability Income Assistance is already well-below poverty level and woefully inadequate. Rents, food prices and cost of living has skyrocketed but Disability Income Assistance rates remain ridiculously low.A 2nd plea for "Show me the money" amongst the disability community is our sincere desire to know exactly how provincial funds are spent...and crucially, where taxpayer money is being wasted. People with disabilities deserve dignity and respect. We all deserve transparency & accountability from our government and politicians also.In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, Jeff Leggat from Disability Action of Canada joins as our guest.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on July 24, 2026.

Join us LIVE! as we celebrate the 300th episode of PWD Allies podcast with special guest, Cheryl Hardcastle.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on July 20, 2026.

Disabled people are being renovicted and displaced while our provincial government is bailing out rich condo developers with billions of taxpayer dollars. Make it make sense! The threat of renoviction as well as lack of affordable, accessible, and supportive housing for people with disabilities is a serious problem.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on July 17, 2026.

Just get a job. That's what our provincial government loves to tell everyone struggling to survive on inadequate, poverty-level Disability Income Assistance.Unfortunately, 'Working like a dog' is an all-too-familiar reality for people with disabilities who are often forced to deal with chronic illness & pain on a daily basis.Just as one dog year is the equivalent of 7 human years, one year of on-the-job work is like 7 years of strain and added wear & tear for the body of a disabled person.A job can be great, financially...but you pay a heavy price on your health, afterwards. A job can be good for a while, but the grind can soon become difficult...or even physically impossible. It's a simple universal truth that a person's disability can be extremely unforgiving and hit back hard when pushed beyond its limits.If only our politicians understood how hard it is to have a disabled body. Just get a job, they say. If only politicians had the lived experience of disability, they might begin to think or act different. Perhaps even raise monthly Disability Income Assistance to a respectable, liveable income?PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on July 13, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, host Brent Frain talks about the recent move to a new apartment.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on July 10, 2026.

Disabled dad Neil Matheson, aka Daddy Bent Legs, takes us down memory lane as he cerebrates a special Fathers Day.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on June 19, 2026.

The perfect photo-op. It tells a story of compassion, of inclusion, of a society that cares.But what if the same politician who posed for that photo op just voted against provincial legislation that would've allowed disabled people to live more independently or have marriage equity & no PWD clawbacks?This is the political double standard the disability community knows all too well. Disability advocates are often labeled extremist or shut down for telling the truth. We are viewed as complainers and turned into mascots of inspiration instead. Why do disability advocates get labelled as being extremists or radical for pushing back against discriminatory, ableist government policy?PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on June 15, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies, the hosts dive into a nuanced discussion about disability identity. Tina Hoang joins as guest and she explores the concept of being 'enough' within the disability community, touching on important themes of disability awareness and advocacy for persons with disabilities. Tina Hoang believes, disabled or not, you are never too old to rediscover playfulness and fun.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on June 10, 2026.

In British Columbia, many individuals with disabilities are facing significant challenges in finding affordable and accessible housing. The lack of accessible homes is exacerbating the existing housing crisis, leaving people with disabilities struggling to afford basic necessities.In this episode of PWD Allies, host Brent Frain talks about his current housing situation, an upcoming move, and how high rents have kept him & Sonjia trapped in Victoria...a place they never really wanted to move to in the first place.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on June 5, 2026.

It's a Diabetes diatribe rant & rave episode with Sonjia Grandahl and Patrick Hébert. Join the intense discussion on diabetes as they dive into the complexities of the condition, sharing their expertise and personal experiences.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on June 1, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we're joined by Sparrow Sardothian, a blind woman from Las Vegas.A discussion on blindness and perception takes center stage. We hear Sparrow's personal account about her experience with others doubting her blindness. This segment highlights the everyday disability challenges and misconceptions surrounding visual impairment, and what it's like being blind. A star on TikTok, Sparrow Sardothian believes proper disability representation should be more multi-dimensional and much less inspirational.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on May 29, 2026.

In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we look at bad disability policy and its far-reaching consequences. From inaccessibility & discrimination to inadequate support services, we explore the ways in which these government policies are failing to provide equal opportunities and rights for individuals with disabilities. The system is broken: Everything, everywhere, all at once.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 25, 2026.

On one side: $750. On the other: $1,483.50What if I told you that the smaller number, from over three decades ago, offered people a life of basic dignity, while the larger number, from 2026, forces people into poverty?This isn’t a riddle. It’s the reality for people with disabilities in British Columbia. Thirty-six years later, today's higher monthly BC PWD payment of $1,483.50 is worth drastically less and leaves people with disabilities struggling to survive.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 22, 2026.

Brent Frain and Neil Matheson are back with Episode #2 of PWD Allies: After Hours. Premiering LIVE! at 9pm PST / 12am EST, it's guaranteed to be another chill time. Be sure to join in for the live chat fun.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 15, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies, Tom Pogson joins host Brent Frain to explain how UBI fixes Disability Income Assistance. Is Universal Basic Income the missing piece for Canadians with disabilities? Watch this video for the full interview and deep dive discussion.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 11, 2026.

We've never done a livestreamed episode at night before, so make sure you tune in. It'll be a chill time. Don't miss out!PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 8, 2026.

8 CENTS?! That's how much BC PWD rates have increased in 6 years. Is BC Disability Assistance a JOKE in 2026?On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, host Brent Frain is joined by Shannon Hollingworth to talk about the inadequacy of BC Disability Assistance payments in 2026 and how such a low amount fails to meet basic living needs.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 4, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, disability advocate Dan Trayes joins us LIVE! from Toronto City Hall for a special announcement.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on May 1, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, Brent & Neil speed through the Top 7 David Eby Oopsie moments.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on April 27, 2026.

Flo Group CEO Michael Leung joins PWD Allies podcast to talk about his innovation that's disrupting the more traditional and more expensive hearing aid industry. Discover the latest advancements in hearing aid technology with the FLO-TruBalance 2.0 Open Ear Hearing Aid. This revolutionary device provides a more natural listening experience, with an open ear design utilizing bone conduction technology. Learn how the FLO-TruBalance 2.0 can improve your hearing and enhance your overall quality of life. This hearing aid is changing the way people experience sound. Find out more about the benefits and features of the FLO-TruBalance 2.0 and how it can help you hear the world around you in a whole new way.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on April 24, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, Shannon Hollingworth joins host Brent Frain to talk about the challenges of navigating disability and homecare.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on April 20, 2026.

Redefining disability: God don't make no junk! :)On this episode of PWD Allies podcast is Stuart Jones, a former pastor and author of the memoir "For The Love of Stephen". The book talks about his brother, born with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A story of faith, dignity, worth and purpose while focusing on the early years of inclusion & integration for people with disabilities.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on April 17, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, host Brent Frain discusses the recent problems & breakdowns to our aging fleet of BC Ferries. And how these tired, outdated boats serve as a perfect metaphor for David Eby's slipping premiership...thanks to a whole slew of bad policy decisions, one after another.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on April 14, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, Brent Frain is back for another rant & rave about provincial disability policy that doesn't make sense.Here in BC, PWD Income Assistance is barrier-filled and gated with crisis support supplements or extra dietary cash supplements almost impossible to access. The provincial government solution? Throw a jar full of pink unicorns at the problem.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on April 10, 2026.

On today's episode of PWD Allies podcast. Bryce Schaufelberger shares exactly what's so special about the Special Olympics...highlighting the impact they have on the lives of athletes, their families, and the community at large. With a focus on promoting inclusion, acceptance, and empowerment, Bryce sheds light on the transformative power of Special Olympics.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on March 30, 2026.

BC PWD cash supplements are disappearing. Find out what's happening to this essential support for people with disabilities in British Columbia. Get informed about the new provincial disability policy change, and its potential impact. For example, diabetics who have special dietary needs or restrictions will now need to reapply/re-qualify for additional cash supplements.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on March 27, 2026.

Are persons with disabilities less important than seniors? Our federal and provincial governments seem to think so. Seniors have access to a cheap annual $45 bus pass here in BC, other PWDs do not. Old age seniors also have easier access to rental assistance programs and rent subsidies to help combat the rising cost of living. And again, regular BC PWD recipients don't.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on March 20, 2026.

Every single month, persons with disabilities on income assistance face an impossible choice: food or shelter? What is the higher priority? Because living in legislated poverty means you can't have both.On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, host Brent Frain breaks down the truth with his own real lived experience.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on March 16, 2026.

Canada has existed for 158 years. But Canada's sovereignty is now at risk because of reckless politicians like David Eby. Premier Eby has made a complete mess of Indigenous reconciliation. BC voters feel deceived and lied to...and in the process, our democratically elected & appointed government has given unelected Indigenous leaders the power of veto.Apathy and anger is fueling BC politics. Apathy from government, and anger from BC citizens. We are witnessing the rapid disintegration of democracy in real-time. On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we will discuss how this massive sell-off of British Columbia signals an abrupt end to the sovereignty of Canada.More than a few of our politicians don't seem to care; that's the truly shocking part. They're all too busy calling each other racists.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on March 13, 2026.

On this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we dive into the controversy surrounding BC premier David Eby and a secret Musqueam deal with the federal government. Premier Eby claimed he was not aware of the deal, sparking widespread criticism. In this video, we will examine the details of the Musqueam deal, the federal government's involvement, and Premier Eby's alleged lack of knowledge. We will also discuss the implications of this situation and what it could mean for British Columbia's political landscape and future economy. With in-depth analysis and expert insights, we explore the potential consequences of Premier Eby's actions. Whether you're a concerned citizen or simply interested in Canadian politics, this video is a must-watch for anyone looking to stay informed about the latest news and developments in BC's government.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and released on March 6, 2026.

On today's LIVE! episode of PWD Allies, we discuss the implications of David Eby's No-Win Budget 2026 for people with disabilities in British Columbia. First and foremost, Brent Frain will talk about the real world consequences for people with disabilities who are already living in deep legislated poverty.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on March 2, 2026.

Stephen Wagstaff, a quadriplegic CEO from New Brunswick, shares an inter-abled love story with his wife Julie. The founder of SwagAbility.com talks about life before his diving accident and recounts the exact moment of instant paralysis.Stephen and his wife Julie have both preserved through a lot, and their strong faith in God is what has carried them through every challenge and battle. Now they are using their combined lived experience to help other people, disabled or not. This is a wonderful interview, definitely worth a full listen.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on February 27, 2026.

The new British Columbia budget has been announced, and it's leaving many wondering how it will impact the lives of people with disabilities. Join us LIVE! as we discuss the implications of BC Budget 2026 and what it means for disability support in the province.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on February 23, 2026.

PWD Allies LIVE! returns, as host Brent Frain and editor-producer Neil Matheson comment on Tumbler Ridge tragedy and BC Budget 2026.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on February 20, 2026.

Discover the most effective strategies of parent advocacy for disabled children in this informative video. Carmen Farrell joins PWD Allies podcast to share her personal experience and top practical tips on how parents can advocate the right way to best support their disabled child, and the teachers, at school.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and released on February 9, 2026.

Hollis Peirce, a podcaster from Ottawa Ontario with congenital Muscular Dystrophy joins us on PWD Allies podcast to talk about the ODSP trap. Hollis Peirce sheds light on the realities of living on the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and exposes the cycle of poverty that many individuals face. This episode was pre-recorded and released on February 9, 2026.

Disability and the church, that's today's topic. John Fela is a disability advocate and dad to an 18-year-old son with autism who is nonverbal. John Fela is also a former elementary educator and someone who was previously involved with the Christian ministry, Joni & Friends (founded by quadriplegic Joni Eareckson).In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, discover the power of inclusivity as we explore what happens when the church supports people with disabilities.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and released on February 6, 2026

David Eby hates Canada and destroys democracy but he doesn't understand the word TREASON?Join the discussion on BC NDP's controversial approach to Indigenous reconciliation in British Columbia, as we examine David Eby's radical methods and their potential impact on BC democracy. Eby accused Alberta separatists of treason and yet his warped version of indigenous reconciliation is a direct threat to BC's democratic process. David Eby's spectacular ignorance here is a classic case of the pot calling the kettle black.Watch to learn more about the implications of Eby's reckless leadership and how he may be affecting the relationship between government and Indigenous communities. With tensions rising, it's essential to understand the complexities of reconciliation and consider the potential consequences of Eby's bad mishandling of UNDRIP/DRIPA and his hyper-rushed revision of the province's Interpretation Act.David Eby needs to step down as BC's premier. He has done more than enough damage to the province already.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on February 3, 2026.

BIG news for disabled Canadians as Greyhound bus service returns?In a move that could have significant implications for Canadians with disabilities, Greyhound bus service is making a potential comeback. After ceasing operations in Canada, the iconic bus company is exploring a return to the Canadian market, which could provide much-needed transportation options for people with disabilities. With many Canadians relying on Greyhound for accessible and affordable travel, the potential return of the service is being welcomed by disability advocates. In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we'll explore the latest developments and what a revived Greyhound bus service could mean for disabled Canadians. Could this be the transportation solution that many have been waiting for?PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on February 2, 2026.

PWD Allies podcast is back with our first LIVE! episode of 2026. Here's a run down of the top 7 disability news stories in Canada this week, starting with Prime Minister Mark Carney's grocery affordability rebate. PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. This episode livestreamed via YouTube on January 30, 2026.

Living with a disability costs more money. It's the harsh reality faced by people with disabilities in Canada as they navigate the challenge of a "Crip Tax" problem. This term refers to the additional expenses that individuals with disabilities incur due to their disability, which can lead to financial strain and inequality.In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we delve into the world of accessibility and inclusivity, exploring the ways in which people with disabilities are affected by this very real issue. From higher costs of living to limited access to resources, we examine the complexities of the Crip Tax problem and what it means for Canadians with disabilities. All of government (both federal and provincial) can, and should, be doing a lot more to ease this financial burden by better respecting the full autonomy of every disabled individual. PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on January 8, 2026.

Back in 2012, disability advocate/activist Stella Young coined the term "Inspiration Porn" which is the objectifying of disabled people as models of inspiration for able-bodied people simply because they are disabled.In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we discuss how an ableist society and ableism in government social policy still persists, and that people with disabilities must lead the way towards a better post Inspiration Porn era.PWD Allies podcast airs every week on YouTube, hosted by Brent Frain. ** This episode was pre-recorded and then released on January 24, 2026.

Disabled sex & intimacy = a cautioned tape love heart.In this episode of PWD Allies podcast, we dive into societal perceptions of disabled couples, even within families. Neil Matheson, author of the disability memoir Daddy Bent-Legs, explores the important topic of people with disabilities deserving love and family, just like anyone else. Disabled couples wanting not only true autonomy but also an equal opportunity to become parents. It's a discussion about the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities, and how they should be treated with respect and inclusivity. People with disabilities often face unique challenges in their personal lives, but they have the same desires and needs as everyone else, including the need for love, connection, and family. Join the conversation and let's break down the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in life, like the BC government's spousal cap and PWD clawback policy which financially punishes disabled couples.This PWD Allies podcast episode was pre-recorded on January 19th and later released on January 20th, 2026.