Kelly and Company

On this heartfelt Friday edition, Kelly MacDonald and Brock Richardson welcome back the long-awaited Artist Corner segment. Multidisciplinary artist Rachel Harding shares the story behind “Sunrise Willow,” a lush, chill track first created to ease flight anxiety and now brought to life through her practicum at the National Access Arts Centre (NAC). Rachel opens up about self-expression, creativity, and the community that’s helped her find her voice. Later, entertainment contributor Michael Fair explores Big Finish’s new adaptation of V, the 1980s sci-fi series, now updated for modern times and relocated to the UK. With stellar performances and immersive sound design, the audio drama brings new urgency and political relevance to its themes of resistance and control. The episode also features touching tributes from longtime contributors like Mark Rankin and Melanie Taddeo, celebrating the community and growth fostered through Kelly and Company over the years — from broadcasting students to professional hosts. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

The Oakville Festival of Film and Arts is set to present the red-carpet gala premiere of Stealing the Sky, on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Written by award-winning writer and actor Marie Dame and directed by Canadian icon Megan Follows, Stealing the Sky presents a diverse mosaic of interlocking stories set against the backdrop of Toronto’s expanding urban landscape. Megan Follows is here now to give us the scoop! What is burlesque? Let’s find out with Christine Malec, who’s also here to tell us how some burlesque performances are being made accessible for blind and low vision audiences. Rebecca Dingwell talks about exploring Tarot cards and finding the right deck for you. From chips to cocktails, pickle-flavoured everything is taking over grocery aisles. Mary Mammoliti is here to tell us why tangy is trending, and how to bring that briny goodness into your own kitchen. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show, Lucia Bellafante joins us with updates on her journey of growth and change. Ryan Chin from Sun Life Financial will shed some light on investments and savings, the gist of everything we’ve learned with him on the show. Marathon runner Chris Nikik and Adidas revolutionizing running for people in the Down syndrome community. Jennie Bovard is excited to tell us all about it. #accessibility #assistivetech #podcast #disability #blind #accessibilemedia #KellyCo Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show, Film Critic Michael McNeely has us covered with two British series with deaf representation. And Host of Para Sport Nation, Alex Smyth, explains all we need to know about Para Fencing. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

Dr Danielle Jongkinde tells us about a behavioural scientist who published a research article about a hawk that had learned to adapt to city life particularly well. You can easily make a lot of your favorite meals healthier by making some small modifications to traditional recipes or methods, let’s talk health hacks for the kitchen with Nutritionist Julia Karantjas. Learn how AI is becoming part of our everyday life at home, work, and play with Tech Expert Michael Babcock. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show, we’re getting the top tech headlines explained and dissected by Host of Double Tap on AMI-audio, Steven Scott. What brand-new series are still to come on AMI-tv and AMI+? And what projects have been greenlit for development? Greg David, Communications Specialist at AMI, joins us to spill the beans on top secret information that not even the media knows about… yet. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

In June 2025, several art programs and exhibitions across Canada will highlight the creative expressions of individuals living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia and neurodiversity – Cultural Contributor Amy Amantea brings us the connections. Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is supporting accessibility in the iGaming industry with the launch of Red Panda Tails of Wealth, the first digital slot game designed with built-in accessible features. Chris O’Brien, Director of Accessibility for OLG, has the scoop. Plus, we’ve entered Picnic Season, and Chef Mary Mammoliti shares what to pack and how to keep this fun summer eating option stress free. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

In honour of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re in for an honest conversation with Matisse Hamel-Nelis, who opens up about her personal and professional journey with bipolar disorder. Plus, Director of Disability Book Week Lindsey Larsen discusses the rapid growth of the international movement, and how visibility and vulnerability lay the groundwork for effective advocacy. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

The American music awards 2025 took place last night May 26. The ceremony was hosted by Jennifer lopez. Taking place in Nevada Las Vegas. Music Critic Amanda Shekarchi has the recap. Transitioning from a student to employee can be both exciting and scary. Anu Pala knows all about this and is here to share how to set yourself up for success. #accessibility #assistivetech #podcast #disability #blind #accessibilemedia #KellyCo Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

Airports can be stressful places for anyone, and for people with disabilities, navigating a terminal can often present unexpected challenges. Fortunately, some organizations are working hard to change that. The Winnipeg Airport Authority is taking meaningful steps to create a more accessible and inclusive experience for all of their passengers. Joining us today to share what’s being done is Julie Capko from the Winnipeg Airport Authority. Plus, Michael Feir tells us all about the many entertainment possibilities found through your smartphone, that he writes all about in his brand new guide to using your iPhone. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show CEO of Peel CAS, Mary Beth Moellenkamp has devoted her career to children in care in the Child Welfare system. She’s here to share with us her story, experience, and the realities of working in this field. The Luminato Festival is back this June, and offering many inclusive performances in theatre, music, and dance, as well as unique Audio Described tours around the city. Christine Malec is here with the details, and the associated LuminoCity podcast. Plus, a recent report published by Community Living Ontario is shedding light on the exclusion, seclusion, and restraint of students with disabilities in Ontario schools. Shawn Pegg, Director of Social Policy & Strategic Initiatives with Community Living Ontario, has the update. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

The weather is getting better; everyone wants to spend more time outdoors and enjoy the short warm weather season. With so many options from picnics to backyard BBQ’s and everything in between, it’s hard to know where to start! Today we will talk about considerations for all your summer fun with Leanne Baarda. As the class of 2025 prepares to enter the workforce, new research from Robert Half highlights the top challenges early-career professionals may face along with practical steps to overcome them. We get into all this with our friend Michael French, from Robert Half Canada. And, as summer approaches the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC) sets sail with its annual Safe Boating Awareness Week, advocating for safe and responsible boating practices across Canada. To steer boaters towards safety, the CSBC, alongside its partners, underscores five pivotal boating safety messages, and here to break down those messages for us is Deputy Unit Leader Ryan Lippert. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

Emily Chambers is a Program Coordinator at the ConnecTra Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting individuals with physical disabilities to resources, programs, and community events. The ConnecTra Society organizes the Abilities Expo in Vancouver, coming up on June 9, 2025, at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Vancouver. Emily Chambers is here with the details. #accessibility #assistivetech #podcast #disability #blind #accessibilemedia #KellyCo Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

Défi-Vision is a unique annual fundraiser organized by the Mira Foundation. Over 35 blind or blindfolded drivers race around a professional track guided only by their copilots. It’s a fun, powerful way to raise awareness about disability inclusion while raising funds to support the training of guide and assistance dogs.We are with participants Tony Labillois and Jean Labbé to tell us all about it. Greg David, Communications Specialist here at AMI, joins us to talk about everything TV and entertainment. And, with the debut of a brand-new series called We Were Broncos coming to AMI-tv and AMI+ on May 26, he’s here to pull back the curtain on how he does a major part of his job. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show, Head of International Partnerships at CNIB, Diane Bergeron joins us to chat about the statement from organizations supporting people with disabilities regarding a new federal cabinet appointment. Then we kick things off with fun summer experiences you can take part in, with Amy Amantea. What exists out there for off-grid power and communication solutions to keep you connected and safe? Outdoor Expert Lawrence Gunther has us covered. And, BBQ season is back! Chef Mary Mammoliti is here to help you kick it off right with tips on cleaning, prepping, and grilling like a pro. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show, Wellness Coach Frances Wong joins us to talk about something that everyone does every day, whether they do it loudly and proudly at home or are more discreet about it in public and that is… farting. Trade tensions got you nervous? Kevin Shaw joins us to share some smart and surprising Canadian tools, programs, and platforms that can help entrepreneurs keep their businesses strong and self-reliant.And grab your handkerchiefs because pollen counts are higher than ever this spring. Jennie Bovard guides us on surviving the worst of allergy season. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

On today’s show, we chat with disability archivist Michael Marlatt on how to preserve film history through accessible and inclusive ways. Plus, Blind Lawyer and disability advocate David Lepofsky gave a keynote speech at this year’s Pushing the Boundaries conference, and we hear the highlights around his vision for the future of inclusion and the playbook for fresh young advocates. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

We can always count on psychotherapist Fern Lulham to save the day, and ironically, I think that’s what she’s here to talk with us about today. We all know cheese to be a source of calcium, but different cheeses can offer so much more. Nutritionist Julia Karantjas has the scoop. Plus, we take a description-rich tour of one of the great Maya cities, which remains half buried in the jungle, with Audio Describer and Traveler JJ Hunt. Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

Make your statement and face your fears as Michael Feir reviews an award-winning horror podcast called The Magnus Archives. Plus, AMI’s Para Sport Nation crew has been busy with back-to-back weekends of sports coverage! Host Alex Smyth joins us with the lowdown on what they’re up to. #accessibility #assistivetech #podcast #disability #blind #accessibilemedia #KellyCo Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca

What’s your relationship with dance? We explore the question with Christine Malec. If you were to create a video game, what would you want that title and gameplay to be like? Markus McCracken has been more than just thinking about it. He’s got a game idea in the works, and he tells us all about it. Plus, Chef Mary Mammoliti is dishing up easy, feel-good bites that make spoiling Mom a breeze this Mother’s Day. #accessibility #assistivetech #podcast #disability #blind #accessibilemedia #KellyCo Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! 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+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: @AccessibleMedia@AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio@AccessibleMediaInc@AccessibleMediaIncfeedback@ami.ca