In this episode, Brenda welcomes Marc Robert from Trexo Robotics for an insightful episode about the intersection of mobility, technology, and community for kids with disabilities. What began as a father's search for better options turned into something much bigger, a movement helping families reclaim hope, gather data, and imagine new futures for their children. Marc shares how a viral GoFundMe campaign led to his son becoming one of the earliest users of the Trexo exoskeleton, a robotic gait trainer designed to help children with physical disabilities take assisted steps and build strength, confidence, and independence. He walks us through the real-life impact of this technology, including the clinical, emotional, and logistical challenges that come with it, how Trexo is evolving, and why it's about far more than walking.

Key Takeaways:

[2:46] Mark's background and introduction to Trexo Robotics.

[3:55] Mark discovered Trexo Robotics' robotic device online and decided to trial it for his son, who has a rare genetic condition.

[4:27] Mark explains the process of raising funds for the device using GoFundMe and the success of his campaign.

[6:14] Mark shares how he brought the device to his son's school to help him exercise and the challenges of using it in a school setting.

[9:40] Why setup and comfort matter, and how family feedback changed the product. [13:08] Becoming a long-term support figure for families via weekly Zoom.

[16:49] Beyond walking: the device's impact on digestion, sleep, core strength, and social inclusion.

[21:23] Why the Trexo works for all levels of gross motor function.

[23:45] The device's ability to help children with various motor impairments, including cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis.

[30:32] Accessibility and availability of the device.

[35:31] Why heart, not just hardware, defines the Trexo team.

[36:54] Where Trexo devices are being used across Canada, and where they're headed next.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Marc: Trexo

Advocacy Abby

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on LinkedIn

In this episode, Brenda welcomes three guests from Clear Water Integrated Health and Anchor Rehab Support Services: Justin Kline, CEO, Jane Savage, Registered Social Worker and Clinical Director, and Stacie Dertinger, Chief Clinical Officer. This multi-pronged conversation explores how their teams are creating wraparound care models for individuals navigating complex diagnoses, brain injuries, and developmental differences, while also prioritizing the mental health and sustainability of caregivers. From partnering with child welfare agencies and designing inter-agency care plans and securing innovation grants, this trio is reimagining what "support" really means in a system that often leaves families to figure it out alone.

Key Takeaways:

[2:23] Jane talks about her work as a social worker, specializing in brain injury and working with complex individuals and family systems.

[3:03] The trio discusses the type of social work services provided by Clear Water Integrated Health.

[4:30] Stacie shares her 20-year experience as a registered behavior analyst, starting in community living and working with brain injury survivors.

[7:36] Justin discusses the company's mission to serve the neurodiverse population and its pivot into various sectors.

[8:09] The company's success is attributed to partnerships with the public sector and building bridges between agencies and community partners.

[14:07] Importance of caregiver support and the challenges caregivers face.

[23:15] The aim is to help families become self-sufficient and manage their mental health.

[23:52] The challenges of caregiver burnout and the importance of collaboration among professionals.

[24:43] The need for integrated plans of care and seamless communication among different agencies.

[29:57] Providing practical resources and training opportunities for caregivers.

[32:36] The company's partnerships with public sector agencies and the success of their collaboration.

[38:40] How radical humility improves inter-agency collaboration.

[43:10] A million-dollar grant and white paper in the works.

[45:00] How clients are referred to their services through word of mouth and social media.

[50:14] The guests highlight their relational approach and commitment to finding the right fit for each client.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Justin, Jane and Stacy: Clear Water Integrated Health | Anchor Rehab

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Brenda welcomes Kylie James, founder of Koru Nutrition, for a powerful conversation about how nutrition is a missing pillar in recovery care, and how small, manageable changes can lead to massive, measurable results. A Certified Nutritional Practitioner and Registered Occupational Therapist, Kylie shares her unique lens on helping clients recover from motor vehicle accidents, brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, and chronic stress-related conditions. Drawing from personal experience, clinical research, and day-to-day work with clients across Canada, she unpacks everything from gut-brain health and anti-inflammatory diets to insurance approvals, batch cooking, and the power of fermented foods.

Kylie also opens up about the Metabolic Balance Program, a customizable, bloodwork-based plan that's helping people lose weight, manage pain, improve sleep, and even reduce the need for certain medications.

Key Takeaways:

[2:19] Kylie shares her educational background, starting as an occupational therapist in New Zealand and working in various settings.

[3:03] Kylie explains her passion for nutrition and how it complements her occupational therapy skills.

[3:54] She mentions her nephew's spinal cord injury and her involvement in research and writing a book on nutrition and spinal cord injury.

[7:01] The importance of alternative treatments like nutrition and supplements in managing depression.

[12:39] The need for empowering people to explore non-medication options for mental health management.

[14:09] They discuss the resistance from medical institutions to alternative nutrition approaches.

Kylie and Brenda discuss systemic resistance to nutrition-first approaches in hospitals and rehab care.

[24:07] How Koru Nutrition gets nutritional therapy approved for MVA recovery, including supplement and equipment coverage.

[27:18] What clients with brain injuries need most: blood sugar balance, healthy fats, and small changes that stick.

[38:32] Simple, affordable strategies: meal prepping, slow cookers, egg bites, Meatless Mondays, and leftover hacks.

[45:17] The surprising benefits, and challenges of keto, intermittent fasting, and other therapeutic diets.

[54:33] The Metabolic Balance Program: how it's helping clients reduce medication, manage menopause, and heal inflammation.

[56:35] Hormones and brain injury: the overlooked link that's starting to gain attention in concussion recovery.

[1:00:50] Women, weight gain, and research gaps: why most health data still doesn't reflect female biology or hormone cycles.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Kylie: Koru Nutrition Inc.

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Eat Well, Live Well with Spinal Cord Injury (book)Metabolic Balance Program

Brenda Agnew and Jordan Assaraf are joined by lawyer, speaker, and host of The Trauma-Informed Lawyer podcast, Myrna McCallum. Together, they talk about how trauma shows up in the legal world, for both clients and lawyers, and why creating a safe, empathetic space is essential to the profession. Myrna shares stories from her own life, including her work on the Indian Residential Schools adjudication process, and how her own healing journey led to her passion for trauma-informed advocacy. They dive into the importance of curiosity over judgment, the role of nervous system regulation in difficult conversations, and why authenticity (not perfection) is key to connection.

Key Takeaways:

[3:05] Myrna talks about the Justice as Trauma Conference.

[5:13] What does it mean to be trauma informed?

[7:39] Working as an adjudicator: what Myrna learned about humanity, harm, and healing.

[9:28] Myrna shares her personal background, including her traumatic upbringing and early experiences.

[10:58] Why trauma-informed lawyering isn't a "soft skill", and how safety leads to stronger client relationships.

[14:41] The three things you need to be trauma informed. [19:44] The physiological side of trauma: how the nervous system responds to harm and why it matters in legal settings. [25:03] How practicing curiosity and self-awareness can reduce re-traumatization in clients and witnesses. [28:56] Brenda, Jordan, and Myrna discuss how vicarious trauma affects lawyers and legal professionals. [34:20] Building sustainable practices: how rest, boundaries, and authenticity support long-term legal careers. [39:41] Why even well-meaning lawyers can cause harm, and how to recover and learn when that happens.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Myrna:

Myrna: Website | Justice as Trauma Conference

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Tweetables and quotes:

"The conversation of trauma and law, and trauma and justice and how those two things meet up is gaining momentum. It's a global conversation." - Myrna [3:07]

"Being trauma informed is something that lawyers can do and should be expected to do, given how much trauma travels in all these different practice areas." - Myrna [6:05]

"I believe that lawyers should be expected to receive all of us when we sit down with our fears, our stresses, and our anxieties. And I think being educated on trauma and how trauma plays a role in your decision-making, your emotional response, your behavior, all of those things, is the bare minimum." - Myrna [7:49]

"Just because somebody struggles to tell you their narrative doesn't mean they're trying to deceive you. There are deeper things happening." - Myrna [13:10]

"I believe that the key to trust is transparency. Be as transparent as possible." - Myrna [22:11]

"It begins with education, and we can choose to get educated now." - Myrna [26:16]

"I think for every time we show up with our humanity, we lead with our humanity, we recognize humanity and other people, this is how we rebuild the credibility of a profession that, if we're being honest, has zero credibility right now." - Myrna [34:08]

In this episode, Brenda and Jordan sit down with Kris Bonn, managing partner at Bonn Law, to talk about his unique journey from criminal defense to personal injury and medical malpractice law. Kris opens up about his early career, high-stakes trials, the evolution of his family's practice, and how small-town roots influence big legal wins. They also explore the importance of collaboration between firms, using tech to improve case management, and how competitive drive fuels strong client advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

[1:01] Kris shares his background and how his practice in Belleville grew from his father's original firm. [3:18] The firm's evolution: from real estate and criminal law to personal injury and medical malpractice. [5:07] Kris's transition from Bay Street to criminal defense, and eventually to personal injury law. [7:13] How criminal defense shaped his courtroom confidence and cross-examination skills. [10:15] Two major medical malpractice trials: the cases, the prep, and the outcomes. [14:48] Kris reflects on how his business education and love of competition led him to law. [21:49] The value of collegiality and mutual respect among opposing counsel. [23:15] Why collaboration among lawyers can mean better outcomes for clients and how OTLA fosters that. [26:31] How Kris modernized firm operations with systems, technology, and eventually AI. [30:45] Why AI is becoming a game changer in summarizing medical records and file management. [33:01] Major shifts in personal injury law: benefit cutbacks and increased difficulty in auto collision claims. [35:40] The role of diversification and why criminal defense remains vital for firm stability. [36:52] Memorable small-town cases: hitting cows, ATV crashes, and even an encounter with 60 Minutes! [45:09] Key takeaways for lawyers and owners following a Court of Appeal case that changed liability law.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Kris:

Kris: Website

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Brenda Agnew and Jordan Assaraf catch up with Charlie Johnstone, the new President and CEO of Variety - the Children's Charity of Ontario. They talk about his first few months on the job, how inclusion and community are driving everything forward, and why his experience running events like the Royal Winter Fair and Honda Indy helped him hit the ground running. They also dig into the importance of creating real partnerships, building sustainable programs, and making space for everyone—on and off the field.

Key Takeaways:

[1:01] Charlie introduces himself and shares his background leading events like the Honda Indy and Royal Winter Fair. [2:36] The 37th Lieutenant Governor Games: 400 kids, 15 schools, and a ton of heart. [5:10] From motorsports to goats to kids, Charlie talks about the levels of emotion he's witnessed in each role. [7:33] Inclusion in action: Kids of all abilities playing together, no special treatment—just fun. [8:29] Brenda shares how inclusive sports like sitting volleyball can level the playing field. [10:00] How exposure to disability at a young age builds empathy and lifelong friendships. [12:01] A story about Brenda's son and his best friend shows the power of unconditional friendship. [13:58] Variety offers immersive programming experiences for corporate team-building—and the impact goes both ways. [16:01] Not all donations are created equal: Why real partnerships matter more than photo ops. [20:18] Plans to scale Variety's programs into more communities through sustainable, collaborative partnerships. [25:00] What is Variety? A look inside their 76,000 sq ft accessible facility with 6,000 members. [27:16] "I found family at Variety" - Charlie shares the emotional impact on members. [31:41] Inclusion is for parents, too. Charlie talks about how friendships form on the sidelines and build community. [36:49] Facility highlights: pools, gyms, meeting spaces, tournaments, and full accessibility. [38:00] Scaling sustainably: Why Charlie would rather do fewer events and do them right. [43:10] "Do good work with good people for a good reason" - Charlie's personal mission. [45:00] Bonus round: Butter tarts (no raisins), dogs over cats, and why he's all about the forest.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Charlie: Variety – the Children's Charity of Ontario

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Brenda welcomes her friend Kristy Dickinson, a rare disease patient, advocate, and founder of Kristy Dickinson Consulting. Together, they chat about the challenges of patient advocacy, the importance of lived experience in healthcare, and how systemic barriers often force patients and caregivers to become their own strongest advocates. They discuss the impact of delayed diagnoses, the need for a cultural shift in the medical field, and how healthcare professionals can work collaboratively with patients for better outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

[1:01] Brenda introduces guest Kristy Dickinson and her extensive work in patient advocacy.

[4:53] Kristy shares her seven-year journey to a rare disease diagnosis and the constant advocacy required even with a treatment plan in place.

[5:29] The healthcare system isn't designed for people who don't fit the "standard" medical profile, leading to significant delays in diagnosis and care.

[8:32] Brenda and Kristy discuss how patient concerns are often dismissed, leading to worse outcomes.

[13:34] How advocacy can prevent medical errors and why systemic changes are needed to prioritize patient voices.

[16:48] The burden of advocacy: how patients and caregivers are forced to navigate a complex system, often without support.

[20:00] The importance of keeping medical records and using data to advocate for proper care.

[22:47] The need for cultural shifts in medicine and why healthcare is ultimately a "people business."

[25:34] The healthcare system's lack of focus on patient experience and accountability.

[30:00] How systemic barriers discourage patients from seeking care and lead to missed diagnoses.

[37:31] The unseen consequences: how past negative medical experiences lead people to avoid seeking care when they truly need it.

[45:00] The role of lawsuits in driving healthcare improvements and ensuring accountability.

[49:58] Recognizing the expertise of patient advocates and the growing role of Chief Patient Officers in healthcare organizations.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Kristy:

Kristy Dickinson: Website | LinkedIn

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Brenda Agnew is back, this time co-hosting with Charles Gluckstein as they sit down with Chris Clifford and Ted Bergeron, the founding partners of Bergeron Clifford LLP. In this episode, they chat about how legal practices are evolving, touching on how technology, diversification, and the challenges of life after COVID have shaped their approach. From growing their firms and embracing data-driven decisions to expanding into new practice areas, it's all about staying client-focused. They also chat about the importance of mentorship, firm culture, and how tools like AI are transforming the way lawyers work.

Key Takeaways:

[3:50] The founding story of Bergeron Clifford and how it has adapted in the past 25 years, including their early focus on motor vehicle accident litigation.

[6:05] The shift from generalist to specialist legal practices and the impact of Ontario's insurance reforms.

[9:55] The COVID-19's pandemic's effect on motor vehicle cases and the shift to other practice areas like medical malpractice, sexual abuse litigation, and class actions.

[12:42] Leveraging technology and data analytics to streamline operations and drive decisions in legal practices.

[16:44] Balancing expansion, profitability, and client care, including factors like geographic location and practice areas.

[22:10] Managing passion projects and cases with a focus on sustainability and justice.

[30:49] Post-COVID client interactions and the growing role of technology, including remote signatures and Zoom meetings.

[36:37] Addressing staff management challenges, training young lawyers, and maintaining firm culture in a hybrid work environment.

[45:24] The future of embracing AI, trial technology, and evolving client needs while retaining human judgment and a healthy dose of skepticism.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

Bergeron Clifford LLP: Visit Website

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Brenda Agnew is joined by Linda O'Brien, a lawyer with Gluckstein Lawyers, to discuss the world of personal injury law. Linda breaks down the complexities of personal injury cases, from medical malpractice to sexual abuse, motor vehicle accidents, and more. Brenda and Linda delve into the different tiers of personal injury law firms, the importance of specialization, and why clients should do their homework when choosing a lawyer. They also address some of the challenges in the legal marketing world and emphasize the importance of putting the client's well-being first.

Key Takeaways:

[1:41] Linda explains what personal injury law covers, from medical malpractice to motor vehicle accidents and sexual abuse cases.

[4:02] Understanding the tiers within personal injury law firms: Low-tier firms vs. specialized top-tier firms.

[6:06] The importance of expertise in handling specific types of cases.

[7:51] Brenda and Linda discuss why clients should be cautious about firms with big marketing budgets and the importance of doing research.

[10:00] The issue of law firms taking on cases outside their area of expertise.

[13:51] Why the legal industry needs to prioritize client care over monetary gain.

[16:47] The challenges of being a lawyer in personal injury law and how firms should prioritize clients' needs.

[20:17] Addressing the negative perceptions of personal injury lawyers and the "ambulance chaser" stereotype.

[25:00] The significance of community involvement and genuine advocacy in personal injury law.

[29:46] How clients should trust their gut and do their due diligence when hiring a lawyer.

[35:00] The responsibility lawyers have to serve clients with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

Linda O'Brien

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin

Brenda Agnew, your host, is joined by Diana Harris, Gluckstein Lawyers' intake coordinator, and her sister Suzanne Coleman, the founder of Horse&Hands. Suzanne introduces us to Facilitated Equine Experiential Learning (FEEL), a transformative therapy that uses horses to help individuals reconnect with their authentic selves. In this episode, they discuss how horses provide healing support to trauma survivors, including survivors of sexual abuse, by fostering trust, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. Suzanne shares her journey, the incredible wisdom of horses, and the remarkable transformations she's witnessed.

Key Takeaways:

[2:41] Understanding equine experiential learning: What is equine-guided education, and how does it work?

[4:57] How horses feel and respond to human energy through their heightened sensitivity.

[6:13] The electromagnetic field of a horse's heart is five times greater than that of humans.

[7:18] The benefits of horses in emotional and physical healing.

[8:00] How horses communicate and reflect emotions through their body language.

[9:21] Horses mirror what we need to know about ourselves to heal.

[13:02] Suzanne explains her role as a facilitator and shares the incredible benefits she's witnessed.

[16:20] Why this type of therapy is invaluable for trauma survivors, including Gluckstein clients.

[18:20] How people can find equine-assisted therapy programs near them.

[20:38] Suzanne's personal journey: What inspired her to pursue this work.

[23:36] The horses choose the client. Suzanne cares for six rescued horses who are integral to her work.

[30:21] This therapy welcomes people of all ages and walks of life.

[35:04] Some clients have managed to get equine therapy categorized under leisure therapy for insurance coverage.

Mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.

To learn more about Suzanne:

Suzanne Coleman's Website: Horse&Hands

Horse Spirit Connections: Horse Spirit Connections – Find practitioners across Canada.

Gluckstein Lawyers on Twitter

Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook

Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram

Gluckstein Lawyers on YouTube

Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin