Para Sport Nation

By Accessible Media Inc.

Alex Smyth spotlights upcoming para sport events in Canada and abroad, pulls back the curtain on how para sports are played and interviews para sport athletes, coaches and trainers.... more

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FAQs about Para Sport Nation:

How many episodes does Para Sport Nation have?

The podcast currently has 86 episodes available.

Para Sport Nation episodes:

August 31, 2025Team Canada’s Para Athletes Eye Milano Cortina 2026 | Kurt Oatway & Tyler Turner
In this episode of ParaSport Nation, Alex Smyth and guest co-host Kelly MacDonald dive into the latest in Canadian para sport. The show begins with big news from Canadian Blind Hockey, announcing three new programs across Victoria and Edmonton — a clear sign of the sport’s national growth.
Next, Paralympic sit skier Kurt Oatway joins the conversation to discuss his breakout 2024–25 season, the technical details behind his customized sit ski, and why he thrives in speed events like downhill and Super-G. Kurt opens up about the financial and logistical hurdles of off-season training, his love for hard, compact snow, and why he competes without music — a rarity in elite sport.
Then, Paralympic snowboarder Tyler Turner reflects on a season of hard lessons and renewed motivation. Despite setbacks, he captured both the Crystal Globe and World Championship titles. Turner explains how fierce competition from U.S. and Japanese riders is raising the bar, why snowboard cross is his true passion, and how skydiving, base jumping, and mountain biking keep him in peak form year-round.
Finally, Alex and Kelly wrap up with a spirited round of “Blind Power Rankings,” ranking Paralympic winter sports from ice hockey to alpine skiing.
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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:
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Instagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio
Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc
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Email [email protected]
...more
28min
August 30, 2025How Ottawa Is Preparing to Host the World in Wheelchair Basketball
In this episode of Para Sport Nation, host Alex Smyth and guest co-host Kelly MacDonald speak with Cindy Burwell, Executive Director of the Ottawa 2026 Wheelchair Basketball World Championships. Cindy reveals what it takes to plan an international competition with over 300 athletes, from booking venues and transportation to ensuring every detail meets accessibility standards.
The conversation dives into how Ottawa is working with tourism, hospitality, and local businesses to create a welcoming environment for athletes and fans with disabilities. Cindy also highlights the legacy programs already in motion, including introducing wheelchair basketball in schools and creating permanent practice courts to grow adaptive sports in Ottawa.
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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 [email protected]
...more
28min
August 24, 2025Spotlighting Para Athletes at the 2025 Canada Games
On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex shares interviews with Four para-athletes competing at the 2025 Summer Games.
Christel Robichaud, team captain and veteran competitor, shares her thoughts on the bittersweet emotions of her final Canada Games. From leading teammates to chasing podium finishes, she reflects on lessons learned and what comes next.
A record-setter in discus and shot put, Rémi Ouellette also competes in para ice hockey. He reflects on training, resilience, and what drives him to excel in multiple sports.
At just 17, Addisyn Franceschini has already broken the Canadian F64 women’s discus record and is competing in both discus and shot put at the 2025 Canada Games. She opens up about representing Team Ontario, her Paralympic dreams, and her fast-rising journey in para-athletics.
Already a medalist at Nationals and the Canada Games, Tai Young shares his journey of growth as a wheelchair racer. From weather challenges to tactical racing, gear setup, and balancing school and media work, Tai opens up about life on and off the track.
Hear how they prepare, what motivates them, and their goals for the future — on and off the field!
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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 [email protected]
...more
29min
August 23, 2025How St. John’s 2025 Became the Biggest Canada Games Ever
The 2025 Canada Games are just about wrapped up, and CEO Karen Sherriffs reflects on what it takes to host the country’s biggest multi-sport event. From overcoming unexpected challenges—including nearby wildfires and an airline strike—to ensuring athletes can still compete at the highest level, the Games have been a story of resilience and teamwork.
Karen shares her personal journey with the Canada Games, beginning in 1999 and leading to her current role as CEO. She highlights the unique community footprint of St. John’s, the importance of newly built facilities like the Fortis Canada Games Complex, and the dedication of over 5,000 volunteers who make the Games possible.
This conversation explores the evolution of the Canada Games, the inclusion of para-athletes, and the lasting legacy of investment, infrastructure, and community spirit that St. John’s will carry forward long after the final medal is awarded.
Plus, up and coming wheelchair racer Dante Cormier joins the show to talk about his success at the Games. He shares how he’s preparing for his strongest races, what fuels his success, and his goals for the future.
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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 [email protected]
...more
28min
August 17, 2025Christina Picton Continues to Make History in Women’s Para Ice Hockey
On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Christina Picton talks about the significance of competing at the first-ever Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championships and what it means for her personally after joining the sport at just 11 years old. She highlights the team’s preparation — from rivalry series games against the USA to national training camps — and the shared focus and energy heading into competition.
Christina also discusses her transition into Nordic skiing, her 2022 Paralympic experience, and how cross-training has boosted her performance on the ice. She opens up about training with her fiancé and fellow Paralympian Colin Cameron, her work as a graphic designer for para sport events, and her favorite food destinations from her travels.
Looking ahead, Christina shares her hopes for gaining Paralympic status for women’s para ice hockey, the importance of inspiring the next generation of players, and ways supporters can get involved — from grassroots development to sponsorship and volunteering.
Plus, Alex and Nathan have another edition of blind power ranking. This time Nathan has to rank para sports that are currently not in the Paralympics!
Follow Para Sport Nation 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 [email protected]
...more
31min
August 16, 2025Team Canada Goalball: Building Success One Throw at a Time
On this episode, Canadian men’s goalball captain, Peter Parsons takes us inside Canada’s fourth-place finish at the Pan American Championships, describing the emotional rollercoaster of defeating the USA, falling to Argentina in the semifinals, and coping with key injuries — including teammate Mason Smith’s broken foot and separated shoulder in the same play.
He shares personal connections with Nova Scotia players Harry Nickerson and Mason Smith, details the squad’s unique mix of youth and experience, and offers insights into building team chemistry during long tournaments.
Peter paints a vivid picture of the atmosphere in Brazil, where goalball crowds rival soccer matches, and reflects on the Canadian women’s silver-medal performance. He also discusses the sport’s evolution over 20 years, international food adventures, his “Mount Rushmore” of goalball players, and his dream venue for hosting a home tournament.
Plus, Nathan shares some personal news that he will not be attending the 2025 UCI Paracycling Road World Championships. And how this affects him going forward in his athletic career.
Follow Para Sport Nation 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 [email protected]
...more
31min
August 03, 2025Inside Team Canada’s Wheelchair Rugby Brotherhood
On this episode of Parasport Nation, we sit down with Team Canada wheelchair rugby star Matt Debly to dive into his journey from wheelchair basketball at the 2015 Canada Games to scoring a last-second game-winner at the Americas Championship.
Matt shares the adrenaline-fueled story of how he was recruited into wheelchair rugby, his electrifying debut at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, and how Canada’s underdog mentality fuels their push towards LA 2028. He opens up about playing short-handed at the 2025 Americas Championship, securing a thrilling bronze medal with just eight players, and what that taught him about grit, heart, and team culture.
We also talk about the changing landscape of Canada’s national team, the rise of new talent, and how new head coach Trevor Hirschfield is shaping the squad post-Zach Madell’s retirement. 🏆
Matt reveals his wheelchair rugby Mount Rushmore, including legends like Garrett Hickling and Riley Batt, and takes us behind the scenes of the loudest, most electric venues he’s ever competed in. Plus, he shares his favorite global food destinations from his travels in parasport — spoiler alert: Paris tops the list!
Follow Para Sport Nation 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 [email protected]
...more
31min
August 02, 2025Building Women’s Blind Soccer in Canada
On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex and Nathan are joined by Hillary Scanlon and Matt Greenwood of the Canadian Women’s Blind Soccer team. From grassroots efforts to competing on the world stage in India, they discuss the challenges of growing the sport, training remotely, and the game-changing support from Canada Soccer. Their dedication is helping pave the way for blind soccer to gain national recognition and funding.
They also dive into how the team is preparing for the World Championships, raising awareness, and breaking down financial barriers to ensure all players can compete. With hopes for Paralympic inclusion by 2032!
Follow Para Sport Nation 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 [email protected]
...more
31min
July 27, 2025Kelly MacDonald on Goalball, Grassroots, and Growing Para Sport
In this episode of PSN, hosts Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement are joined by AMI's Kelly MacDonald, who shares his deep history with goalball and vision impairment (V.I.) sports. From childhood experiences at W. Ross Macdonald School to his thoughts on current media coverage of adaptive sports, Kelly dives into the impact of grassroots exposure and what para sport needs to grow. The episode also highlights Nathan’s exciting recap of Shim’s Ride, a unique paracycling time trial event in Vancouver. He outlines a bold vision to turn the city into a hub for para sport competition—with hopes for deeper athlete fields, classification systems, and international participation. Plus, Alex quizzes Nathan with a fun and challenging round of "Guess That Para Sport,”.
Follow Para Sport Nation 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 [email protected]
...more
35min
July 26, 2025Inside Stefan Daniel’s Para-Triathlon Journey
Canadian Paralympian and World Champion Stefan Daniel joins PSN to share his journey through para-sport, his passion for triathlon, and how he’s navigating the challenges of elite competition post-Paris Paralympics. Alex and Nathan explore Stefan’s training strategies, mental toughness, and how simplifying life outside of sport is his secret to success. Stefan talks about dealing with the "post-Paralympic blues" and shares how shifting his focus to personal happiness has been key to his athletic recovery. He also reflects on his sibling rivalry with his brother Christian, his love for Japanese cuisine, and the most scenic places he’s raced.
Follow Para Sport Nation 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 [email protected]
...more
30min

FAQs about Para Sport Nation:

How many episodes does Para Sport Nation have?

The podcast currently has 86 episodes available.