Kelly and Company

Plan smart, travel safe – that is the tagline of Atyzi, a diverse online travel agency founded by Aaron Busch – and he has some exciting news to share. TV Guy Greg David recaps the recent Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary special. Are we still watching late night sketch comedy, and is Gen Z keeping up with live TV? Let’s chat 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, Lawrence Gunther is joining us live from the Ottawa Outdoor and Boat Show where he’s staffing the Blue Fish Canada exhibit and providing seminars on the Outdoor Stage. Feeling lazy in the kitchen? You don’t need to spend hours cooking to make something delicious. Who wants to shovel snow when there is a whole range of winter arts and cultural experiences to be had? Amy Amantea is just the person we need to bring us some of these exciting, and potentially frozen, experiences. #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

Keeping your home clean every day can feel like a struggle but breaking it down into small manageable jobs can help you feel less stressed about doing it. Home management techniques can be used to help you complete the tasks more easily and with more confidence. Independent Living Skills Specialist Leanne Baarda is here to tell us how. There are gaps in the system, but Emma Brown, Founder of Whimble, had an ingenious idea to better support people with disabilities and their families by creating a service that offers personal support workers on demand. New research from Robert Half reveals that professionals have either started or are planning to start searching for a new job in the first half of this year, while some say they are open to a new role only if the right opportunity arises. What is the right opportunity exactly? We find out with Michael French. #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

If you live with a disability, chances are you might have been on the lookout for assistive technology and it can be hard to know what is out there, where to get it, and what you even need. Steve Barclay is the owner of Canadian Assistive Technology and he shares his treasure trove of independence devices. #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: - X /Twitter @AccessibleMedia - Instagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio - Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc - TikTok @AccessibleMediaInc - Email feedback@ami.ca

In this second part of the Kelly & Company origin story, Kelly MacDonald takes us deeper into the decisions and challenges that shaped the show’s early days. Back in 2016, AMI’s leadership, including John Melville and David Errington, saw an opportunity to build on the success of the morning show by launching a new afternoon program—and Kelly had a major decision to make. After years of balancing television work and radio aspirations, Kelly was given the chance to co-host full-time and help shape a brand-new show. But making the leap meant a complete career shift, a new daily commute, and stepping into the world of live talk radio—something he had never formally trained for. From initial brainstorming sessions with Kevin Philip-Apilé and Matt Agnew to defining the show’s focus on lifestyle, health, leisure, and entertainment, this episode walks through the building blocks that turned Kelly & Company from an idea into a reality on October 31, 2016. With legendary guests like Jerry Howarth and John Rafferty kicking off the first episode, the show quickly took on a life of its own. In the next Vanity Card, Kelly will explore how Kelly & Company evolved into the show we know today and what it took to grow its foundation. Stay tuned! 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, Nisreen Abdel-Majid hosts the "Love Song Battle." We debate over the best (or worst) love songs every written. An upcoming marriage and male friendship are put to the test in a new comedy from Audible, The Best Man's Ghostwriter. Michael Feir will tell us all about it. 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 play Cupid’s Trivia! Nisreen Abdel-Majid is playing Trivia Master, as she quizzes us on Valentine’s knowledge. Valentine’s Day kicks off the long weekend this year, so why not make it extra delicious? Whether you’re staying in or dining out, Chef Mary Mammoliti is here with the best spots to savour the love in Toronto. Blind Gamer Markus McCracken highlights the accessibility features in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.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: - X /Twitter @AccessibleMedia - Instagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio - Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc - TikTok @AccessibleMediaInc - Email feedback@ami.ca

Why is Self-Love so Important to our Health? Frances Wong is here with the answer. As far as Hallmark themes go, February is the month most associated with Valentine’s Day and with that only a few days away, we’re here to talk about self-love. Kevin Shaw is going to teach us how to write a business Valentine, to show those companies how much you adore them. And, Film Critic Michael McNeely is back to chat about the importance of accessibility for a large scale event, highlighting the work being done at this year’s Sundance Film Festival for an inclusive experience. #Valentinesday #accessibility #KellyCo #AccessibleMedia #podcast #blind #filmfestival #selflove #businessFind Kelly & Company on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: - X /Twitter @AccessibleMedia - Instagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio - Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc - TikTok @AccessibleMediaInc - Email feedback@ami.ca

Marco Pasqua shares his experiences navigating love, marriage, and societal assumptions in an inter-abled relationship with his wife of 17 years, Karen. Alicia Grace Chenier reviews Unstoppable, the biopic about one-legged wrestler Anthony Robles, and questions the authenticity of disability representation in Hollywood. Jeff Ryman brings the latest on Para Sport Nation, including an upcoming chat with a Para Sport Nutritionist.Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: - X /Twitter @AccessibleMedia - Instagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio - Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc - TikTok @AccessibleMediaInc - Email feedback@ami.ca

On this episode of Kelly and Company, Dr. Danielle Jongkind helps us navigate the tricky world of pet emergencies—when should you rush to the vet, and when can it wait? Nutritionist Julia Karantjas breaks down the best foods for bone health (spoiler: it’s more than just calcium!). Plus, JJ Hunt takes us on a mouthwatering tour of his favorite night market feasts from around the world. And in the news, a bluefin tuna sells for a jaw-dropping $1.3 million in Tokyo. Don’t miss this info-packed episode! Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. 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

Ever wondered how Kelly & Company came to life? In this special Vanity Card, Kelly MacDonald takes us behind the scenes to reveal the unexpected journey that led to the show’s creation—sharing details that maybe he shouldn’t! It all started back in 2013 or 2014, when AMI-audio was exploring the idea of a live show—a big shift from its traditional format of readings and pre-recorded documentaries. The concept was ambitious, and as auditions began, Kelly, who was focused on television at the time, was initially not part of the plan. But his passion for live broadcasting couldn’t keep him away for long. Through a mix of persistence, timing, and a little bit of luck, Kelly found his way into AMI-audio, starting with weekly appearances alongside Mike Ross in early 2016. But his story doesn’t stop there—just when things started settling in, AMI’s VP of Production, John Melville, called Kelly in for a meeting… and that’s where the next chapter begins. Want to know what happened next? Stay tuned for the next Vanity Card where Kelly shares that pivotal conversation! Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. 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 talking about perhaps the greatest NBA trade deadline of all-time with Sports Broadcaster Randy Urban. TV Guy Greg David joins us to add a rose to The KellyCo Valentine’s Bouquet, with the most romantic TV episodes of all time! #Valentinesday #accessibility #KellyCo #AccessibleMedia #podcast #blind Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. 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

It’s the lead up to Valentines Day, Amy Amantea’s specialty is arts and culture. She gives us some fun Valentine’s gift and date night ideas. How does playing video games with your partner benefit the relationship? Rebecca Dingwell, who spends too much time on the PS5, is here with her answer. Winter comfort foods can be cozy as well as healthy. Chef Mary Mammoliti shares her favourite anti-inflammatory winter power foods and creative ways to enjoy them. #Valentinesday #accessibility #KellyCo #AccessibleMedia #videogames #podcast #blind Find Kelly & Company on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. 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

It’s another day of the KellyCo Valentine’s Bouquet! We explore creative ways to demonstrate love to your family, with Lucia Bellafante. The introduction of Artificial intelligence will help many companies change the way they work, or the way they deliver service. Financial Planner Ryan Chin explains. And Jennie Bovard is here with her best and worst romantic stories; we have some of yours to share too. We are all about sharing.

It’s the first week of February, and that means it is time to celebrate White Cane Week. We get to how you can take part. Plus let’s find out what’s to come on AMI’s favourite Sports show, Para Sport Nation, in a bit.

We’ve got love on the brain! Fern Lulham is here to give us the primer on what love is, Nutritionist Julia Karantjas is helping us protect our hearts with heart-healthy foods, and Michael Babcock is showing love to wearables. #nutrition #Valentinesday #podcast #AccessibleMedia #KellyCo #accessibility #disabilty #blind #wearabletech

We’re kicking off something new! What used to be the Kelly & Company Audio Vanity Card is now evolving into its own thing—just The Vanity Card—and we’re giving it a little extra space. But what exactly is a Vanity Card? Kelly MacDonald take a moment to explain its origins, inspired by The Big Bang Theory’s end-credit messages. These bite-sized insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the show, thoughts from the team, and even some personal stories we might regret sharing later. Now, instead of being tucked onto the end of the show, these standalone Vanity Cards will be featured on YouTube, podcasts, and even social media like Instagram and Twitter. Expect them mostly on weekends, but who knows? Inspiration strikes at any time! In this first edition, Kelly sets the stage for what’s to come, and next time, Kelly plans to dive into how the show itself came to be. So make way for the new Vanity Cards—your window into the world behind the mic!

The theatrical release of the highly anticipated feature documentary, Blue Rodeo: Lost Together, is making its run across Canada. Director Dale Heslip and Musician Jim Cuddy give us the scoop on production, experience, and their favourite moments of capturing the band’s memories. Plus, join the adventure and roll your fate as Michael Feir reviews the world's first mass produced Braille RPG dice, produced in collaboration with the Dots RPG Project and Die Hard Dice.

It’s a packed show today on Kelly and Company! Ever wondered how blind individuals experience dance? Christine Malec joins us to share her insights on movement, rhythm, and the accessibility of dance for blind and low-vision individuals. Feeling lucky? The Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides is celebrating 40 years with their Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides, and they’re giving away an iPad Pro 11-inch—Anna Harris tells us how to enter. Looking for Super Bowl snacks that won’t break the bank? Culinary expert Mary Mammoliti dishes out the best budget-friendly game day eats, including hot dog hacks, buffalo chicken tenders, and a coffee pod deal you won’t want to miss. All this and more—tune in now! 🎧✨

Award-winning author, tri-athlete, dancer, and Dora Award-nominated performer Vivian Chong invites audiences into her dating, romance, and self-discovery world in her new solo performance, Blind Dates. “Raising Awareness Piece by Piece” – is the slogan for Aenigma Puzzles Co. We learn all about these newly launched accessible puzzles. And, Lindsey Mazza changed her whole life when she leaned into her disability identity and power. We find out how she did it. #Podcast #AccessibleMedia #KellyCo #accessibility #disabilty #blind