Para Sport Nation

Join us on the ground in Montreal for exclusive coverage of Défi Sportif, Canada’s largest multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities. In this episode of Para Sport Nation, host Alex Smyth takes you inside the action—from elite competitions to first-time youth athletes experiencing the thrill of sport and inclusion. We sit down with Maxime Gagnon, President and CEO of Défi Sportif AlterGo, to talk about the event’s evolution, its grassroots to high-performance reach, and his personal journey leading the charge. Paralympian and event ambassador Jonathan Vermette shares his story of inspiration, competition, and why this eve...

The Paris Paralympics shattered every broadcast and digital engagement record. Alex and Nathan dive into the record-breaking global impact of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games — a historic moment not just for sport, but for global media. We explore how 225 Media Rights Holders brought the Games to all corners of the world, how all 22 Para sports received live coverage for the first time, and what these milestones mean for the future of inclusive sport and media accessibility.

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The classification process for para-athletes isn't just a formality—it's a physically and mentally demanding experience that can shape an athlete’s entire career. In this episode, Nathan gets real about the challenges of getting classified, sharing his personal journey through a system that’s often misunderstood. From the emotional toll to the physical demands, he breaks it all down. Plus, Nathan opens up about how he preps for competition, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how he rests, trains, and gears up.

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In this episode, Alex and Nathan sit down with Matt Fliss—Strength and Conditioning Coach at UBC, SnC specialist with Cycling Canada, and current PhD candidate. Matt, who also trains Nathan, shares his journey into the world of strength and conditioning, and how he found his path into para sport. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the unique challenges, adaptations, and innovations involved in training para-athletes, giving us a deeper understanding of what it takes to support elite performance in adaptive sport.

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Dr. David Legg joins the show to discuss the history of sports being added and removed from the Paralympic Games. He explains the balance of ensuing the right level of competition and global representation as well as the impact on sports that are removed from Paralympic competition.

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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 establi...

The Para Ice Hockey World Championships are around the corner. Team Canada’s Captain Tyler McGregor talks Canada/US rivalry, the team’s goal to repeat as world champions, and what it means to wear the “C” for Team Canada. In honour of the Masters tournament, Alex and Nathan choose their championship meals.

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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...

Mollie Jepsen made a triumphant return to the slopes after injuries kept her sidelined the past few seasons. She describes her road to recovery and gaining confidence by medaling in her World Cup return. She describes the challenges of being on the road and training year-round in order to be ready to compete.

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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 vi...

Milano Cortina 2026 announced a partnership with Harder Than You Think.  They are the producers of the Emmy-winning Netflix documentary, Rising Phoenix. Their goal is to create an exclusive long-form documentary dedicated to the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.  Calum Campbell of Harder Than You Think and Livia Draghi of Milano Cortina 2026 join the show to talk more about this.

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After a three game series between Canada and the US, Canada’s Women’s Para Ice Hockey team is in full preparation for the inaugural Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championships later this year. Émilie Robitaille, President of Women's Para Hockey of Canada joins the show to talk about the development and growth of the women’s game in Canada and abroad.

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After representing Canada for 25 years and dominating the sport of Wheelchair Basketball, Patrick Anderson has retired. Known as the Michael Jordan of Wheelchair Basketball, Anderson has won three Paralympic golds and a silver playing for Canada. He reflects on his career and the legacy that he leaves behind as he starts a new journey. The PSN update shares the latest from the world of Para Alpine Skiing with Mollie Jepsen returning after a two-year absence from the sport to land on the podium.

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The 2025 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament took place from March 21st to 23rd with over 190 participants. Alex Smyth, Mike Ross, and Jeff Ryman recap this historic event from the Mattamy Athletic Centre in Toronto, Ontario. They share interviews with key organizers, athletes, and partners regarding the growth and skill of the game. Plus, they provide in-depth analysis of the Bronze and Gold medal games from the Open Division.

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On this episode, Alex and Nathan are joined by CBC Sports Reporter, Devin Heroux to talk more about the 2026 Paralympic Games, which are now less than a year away. They dive into where Devin’s love for sports began, his experience covering 4 consecutive Games, and why he feels so passionate about para sports. Devin also discusses his favourite food destination is while traveling, as well as where he gets all his fashionable hats.

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On this episode, we’re joined by Program Director Luca DeMontis to preview the 2025 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament, happening in Toronto from March 21st to 23rd. Luca shares what fans and players can expect from this record-breaking event, which promises to be the largest blind hockey tournament of all time. He also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming 2025 Canadian National Team roster announcement and what goes into selecting the team. Plus, Alex and Nathan have some fun with Luca, asking him a few rapid-fire hockey questions!

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On this episode, Alex and Nathan chat with legendary wheelchair rugby player Mike Whitehead, who recently announced his retirement after nearly 25 years in the sport. Mike reflects on his incredible career, sharing the emotions and memories that have come flooding back as he steps away from the game. He opens up about the reasons behind his decision to retire and what lies ahead for him in the next chapter of his life. He also discusses how wheelchair rugby has evolved over the years, offering unique insights into the sport's growth and the changes he's witnessed throughout his remarkable journey.<...

On this episode, we chat with Chrissy Molnar, a member of the Canadian Wheelchair Curling Team, who helped secure a bronze medal at the 2025 World Wheelchair Curling Championship. Chrissy shares her journey into wheelchair curling, the strong team chemistry within the national squad, and gives us an inside look at her training leading up to the 2026 Paralympic Games. Alex and Nathan also share some bold Milano-Cortina hot takes.

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On this episode, Will Stephens of Trailer Park Sports Network (TPSN) joins the show to discuss his mission to shine a spotlight on some of the more under covered sports. How does he choose the sports he covers? Where did his desire to cover para sports come from? What type of feedback has he received with his fun and informative coverage? Will shares all this and more!

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On this episode, two-time Paralympic snowboarder Sandrine Hemel joins the show to share insights into the ongoing season. She also touches on the last major event of the year happening at Big White in B.C., the importance of competitions one year out from the 2026 Paralympic Games, and the comradery amongst the Canadian Para Snowboard team.

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On this episode, we dive into the first-ever College/University Sitting Volleyball Invitational, hosted by Durham College in Oshawa, Ontario. Scott Dennis, the Director of Athletics & Recreation, joins us to share the story behind this groundbreaking event. He discusses the inspiration for creating the tournament, the community's enthusiastic response, and Durham College’s commitment to expanding their adaptive sport offerings.

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On this episode, Co-Founder Antyush Bollini and Program Manager Bree Fraser of OneCourt join the show to discuss their groundbreaking assistive technology that’s making live sports more accessible to fans who are Blind or Low Vision. Described as “braille for sports,” their device is revolutionizing the way Blind fans experience games. Antyush and Bree share insights into how the technology works, their exciting partnership with the Portland Trail Blazers of the NBA, and what’s next for OneCourt.

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On this episode, Alex and Nathan recap the 2025 Invictus Games which took place in Vancouver. Nathan was on the ground covering the event and gathered a few interviews of athletes and organizers. Nathan also shares his own personal experiences of being at the games, including being at the Closing Ceremony.

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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 est...

Paralympian and sports nutritionist Keely Shaw joins the show to discuss her career in cycling, as well as her expertise in sports nutrition. More specifically, sports nutrition for para-athletes. What type of research has been done for para sport nutrition? How does nutrition differ for para-athletes? Keely shares her insights!

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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 est...

Danielle Ellis, a three-time Paralympian and captain of the Canadian Women’s Sitting Volleyball Team joins the show to discuss her recently announced retirement. They discuss how she got her start in sitting volleyball, the incredible accomplishments over her 12 year career, and what's next for her in life.

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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...

In this episode of Para Sport Nation, hosts Alex and Nathan sit down with Para swimmer Shelby Newkirk from Saskatoon, recently named Saskatchewan’s Female Athlete of the Year for 2024. 

Shelby reflects on her remarkable career year, including breaking a world record and earning a bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics. She also shares her journey into swimming and the significance of joining a club with other disabled swimmers.

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On this episode of Para Sport Nation, eleven-time Paralympic medalist Mark Arendz joins Alex and Nathan to discuss his recent triumphs at the World Cup and World Championships. Mark shares his thoughts on the significance of competitions one year out from the 2026 Paralympic Games and reflects on his experience competing in Val di Fiemme, Italy, the 2026 Games venue for Para Biathlon.

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In this episode, Alex and Nathan are joined by Paralympic kayaker turned alpine skier, Andrea Nelson. They dive into Andrea's recent success on the slopes, explore the challenges and rewards of being an elite two-sport athlete, and hear about her decision to retire from kayaking and transition into skiing. Andrea also shares her experience at the 2024 Paralympics, where she worked as a media member, offering behind-the-scenes stories and reflecting on some of the most memorable moments from the Games.Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities...

In this episode, Karalyn Stott, Commissioner of the USA Wheelchair Football League, joins Alex and Nathan to explore the incredible rise of wheelchair football. They dive into the key factors driving its rapid growth, the crucial partnership and support from the NFL, and the upcoming Veteran Wheelchair Football All-Star Game. Plus, they discuss the powerful impact the sport is having on players and the community.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 st...

On this episode of Para Sport Nation, hosts Alex and Nathan are joined by Canadian Paraclimber Shamus Boulianne. Shamus opens up about his path into the sport, the thrill of paraclimbing becoming a Paralympic event, and the technical aspects of adaptive climbing. The conversation also explores the unique equipment used in competitions and the specific rules that athletes must follow. Plus, Shamus shares his dream climbing destination.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 F...

In this episode of PSN, Alex and Nathan sit down with Matt Morrow, Executive Director of Canadian Blind Hockey, to discuss exciting upcoming blind hockey events happening across the country. They explore grassroots programs, the rapid growth of the sport, and the inspiring partnerships that have helped shape its success. Matt also shares his insights on the future goals of Canadian Blind Hockey and how the community is continuing to expand opportunities for players of all abilities.Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three...

On this episode of PSN, Alex and Nathan are joined by Kai Schrameyer, Tennis Canada’s National Coach of Wheelchair Tennis. They dive into the newly selected 2025 Canadian wheelchair tennis teams and the exciting competition schedule ahead. The conversation also covers the growth and challenges of the sport within Canada, as well as a look at which countries are excelling in wheelchair tennis. Kai shares insights on how Canada is trying to replicate their success and continue to build a strong future for the sport. Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a media company that entertains, in...

On this episode of PSN, Alex and Nathan sit down with Brice Christianson, a professional sign language interpreter and the founder/CEO of PXP. In this candid conversation, Brice opens up about the critical role of ASL broadcasts, the challenges that come with providing access, and the feedback from the community. They also dive into what the future holds for ASL interpretation in sports broadcasts. Tune in for an insightful discussion on accessibility, representation, and what's next for ASL in the world of sports.Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a media company that entertains, informs...

In this episode of Para Sport Nation, hosts Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement are joined by Dr. David Legg, former President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Professor of Sport Management and Adapted Physical Activity at Mount Royal University. 

Together, they dive into the rich history of adaptive sports in Canada, exploring the origins of adapted physical activity dating back to 1918. They also discuss the search for Canada's first Paralympic athlete, as well as the key historical moments that helped shape the nation's para sport movement.

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On this episode of Para Sport Nation, hosts Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement are joined by former Paralympian and Co-Chef De Mission, Karolina Wisniewska, to dive into the intense journey of a para athlete one year out from the Paralympics. 

Karolina gives a behind-the-scenes look at the grind of training, breaking down what a typical training schedule looks like, the importance of each event, and whether it's possible to bounce back after a setback. 

Drawing from her experiences both as an athlete and a mentor, Karolina opens up about the highs and lows of preparing fo...

On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement are joined by Jennie Bovard to preview a few events that have caught their attention as the calendar flips to 2025. 

They discuss everything from the Invictus Games, to the 2025 Canada Summer Games, and everything in between. 

Plus, Nathan breaks down what it's like as a high performance athlete heading into competition season. He shares the ebbs and flows of training and importance of staying focused on your yearly goals.

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In this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex and Nathan speak with Victor Nelson of the World WCMX Federation about the thrilling world of Wheelchair Motocross, an adaptive sport where athletes perform tricks on wheelchairs in skate parks. 

Victor shares insights into the sport's origins, key athletes, and how WCMX is evolving internationally. The conversation also touches on the importance of accessibility in skate park design, the growing competition circuit, and the hopes for WCMX's inclusion in future Paralympic Games.

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On this episode, PSN surveyed people in the community to vote on the top Para Sport performers from 2024. Host's Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement chat with and reveal all the winners right here on the show!

The categories include:

Top Moment

Top Team

Top Debut

Top Female Athlete

Top Male Athlete

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On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement sit down with Tristan Lindberg, a passionate blind hockey player, board member of the Blind Hockey League (BHL), and Canadian national team member. Tristan shares his journey into blind hockey, from discovering the sport in 2018 to competing in key events like the inaugural BHL season and the upcoming Carnegie Cup in Ottawa. He discusses the growth of blind hockey, its unique rules, and efforts for greater inclusion. The episode also explores Nathan's experience with anti-doping testing. What’s the process like for an athlete when it comes to...

In this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement go head to head and debate hot topics in the para sport world.

Topics include:

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In this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex Smyth and co-host Nathan Clement dive into the world of para-sports, highlighting the latest developments and inspiring stories. The show features a special interview with Ryan Straschnitzki, star of the upcoming AMI-tv series We Were Broncos, where he shares his journey from the devastating Humboldt Broncos bus crash to his efforts to qualify for Canada’s Paralympic wheelchair basketball team. The episode also covers the action-packed Women’s Wheelchair Rugby Cup held in Paris, the Para Hockey Cup, and the latest achievements in para-swimming, including the announcement of Swimming Canada's Para-Athletes of the...

In this episode of Para Sport Nation, we’re joined by Greg Westlake, former Team Canada Para Ice Hockey captain turned assistant coach. Greg shares his inspiring journey from being one of the most decorated players in para ice hockey to coaching Canada’s national team to their first gold medal in seven years. We dive into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from athlete to coach, the unique dynamics of coaching para sports, and what it takes to prepare a team for high-stakes competitions like the 2024 Para Hockey Cup. Greg discusses the importance of grassroots sports development, building team syne...

On this episode of PSN, Alex Hayward reflects on his journey as a Paralympic cyclist, sharing insights about his recent achievements, the importance of family, and the dynamics of life on the road with teammates. He discusses the emotional significance of being recognized as one of New Brunswick's athletes of the year, his transition from engineering to cycling, and the balance he seeks in his life. The conversation also touches on the camaraderie among teammates, the fun moments shared during competitions, and his favorite cycling destinations.Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube! About AMI AMI is a media company that...