7 APR 2022 · Black creators have been challenged with unfairness. It took black filmmakers decades to find their footing in the industry and restructure how stories are told both in front and behind the camera. Jennifer Holness is committed to amplifying representation and inclusion through her work. Today, Jenn reflects on her career as a black creative, outlining the many hurdles that she has conquered and how it fueled her passion for change. Social Media Instagram: @focalpoint.pod, @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

17 MAR 2022 · Homelessness is NOT a choice, anyone can become homeless at any time. In fact, a growing 235,000 Canadians experience homelessness each year. Canada must find long-term solutions. How could all three levels of government reduce our homelessness rates? Peter Tilley is the Executive Director of the Ottawa Misson, a homesless shelter in Ottawa. On today's show, Peter discusses Canada's unfortunate rise in homelessness. Follow us! Instagram: @chrisvallee001, @focalpoint.pod Twitter: @chrisvallee001

11 MAR 2022 · Transgender people come from all walks of life. it's an incredibly diverse community representing all ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds. The word “transgender” is term for people whose gender identity is different from the sex assigned to us at birth. Today we speak to Sam about their transition journey, the challenges they've faced along the way and their inspiring work in advocacy. Social media: Instagram: @focalpoint.pod @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

4 MAR 2022 · Fat Phobia: the fear and discrimination towards people with fat bodies. People associate those who have large silhouettes with a certain health status. People see higher-weight people as refusing to take care of themselves. We live in a world that is weight obsessed. These invalid messages are everywhere and they are affecting our daily lives. Doctor Sarah Nutter is a member of Obesity Canada’s Every Body Matters collaborative who in the past, has struggled with her body image. Sarah discusses widespread weight stigma and how it leads to inequality for individuals with large bodies. Follow us on Social Media: Instagram: @focalpoint.pod, @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

25 FEB 2022 · Social media acts as a powerful teaching tool, a place where all are welcome, a mighty platform that is used to promote inclusivity. While we have seen a great amount of progress, people with disabilities continue to be mocked. This isn't OK. Mary Mammoliti is part of the blind and partially sighted community, she takes us on her path to self acceptance and shares both her positive and negative experiences as a content creator with a disability. Follow us on social media! Instagram: @focalpoint.pod, @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

18 FEB 2022 · The cost of housing in Canada has skyrocketed and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. This is largely impacting our country's most vulnerable: the youngest and the poorest. Why are we seeing a dramatic rise? How do we answer the issue of housing affordability? On today's show, Jeff Morrison of the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association illustrates the housing crisis and how it has impacted Canadians from coast to coast. Follow us on social media: Instagram: @focalpoint.pod @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

11 FEB 2022 · On October 18, 2011 Joel Lefevre's life changed forever when his older brother and best friend Mathieu was hit and killed by the driver of a 28 ton crane truck. It took Joel and his family six years to discover the truth about his brothers death. On today's show, Joel details his family's journey and their fight for answers and justice. Follow us on social media! Instagram: @focalpoint.pod @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

4 FEB 2022 · The time to diversify is NOW. Canada's stem cell registry severely lacks diversity in its donor pool. Hillary McKibbin is a 7-year-old with tons of wisdom, imagination and courage. Hillary is fighting Aplastic Anemia, a condition that occurs when your body stops producing enough new blood cells. Hillary alongside her mom Kelly detail their journey of growth and what led them to becoming such powerful advocates. Follow us on Social Media: Instagram: @focalpoint.pod @chrisvallee001 Twitter: @chrisvallee001

30 DEC 2021 · Preview the first season of The Focal Point!