Drawing Connection: The Story Behind Ben’s Animals

Drawing Connection: The Story Behind Ben’s Animals

Author: Inspirations Newspaper June 19, 2025 Duration: 15:12
In this special episode, we explore Ben’s Animals, a stunning new documentary premiering June 28 on CBC and CBC Gem at 8pm. The film follows 23-year-old Ben Lachapelle, an autistic artist and passionate environmentalist whose deep connection to animals and nature shapes his powerful artwork—and his voice. We speak with Ben, his mother Julie Lachapelle, award-winning filmmaker Evan Beloff, and composer Steven Atme, who take us behind the scenes of the documentary. Together, they reflect on the...

Behind every headline about the special needs community, there are real people navigating daily life with resilience and creativity. The Inspirations News Podcast, from the team at Inspirations Newspaper, moves beyond the newsprint to bring those voices directly to you. Each episode is built on the foundation of Quebec's only newspaper dedicated to this community, offering a deeper, more personal audio experience. Instead of broad generalizations, you'll hear specific, uplifting success stories that highlight genuine achievement and connection. The conversations also provide timely, practical advice that addresses real-world situations, drawn from discussions with experts across fields like education, healthcare, and advocacy. This podcast serves as a thoughtful companion for families, caregivers, and anyone interested in the intersections of society, culture, and family life. It’s a space where insight meets inspiration, focusing on actionable information and shared experiences. By listening, you join a conversation that prioritizes understanding and support, reflecting the full spectrum of life within the special needs community. New episodes arrive regularly, offering consistent perspective and a sense of connection.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 57

Inspirations News Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Five friends with special needs come together to share one dream. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:09
Five friends, all diagnosed with autism/aspergers, created a film where they share their accomplishments, hoping to inspire viewers to follow their dreams. The Power Of One, is about inclusion and diversity despite diffe…
Meet our first Inspirations Difference Maker: Ariel Mechaly [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:49
This year on the Inspirations News Podcast, we will be highlighting difference makers within Montreal's special needs community. Our first Inspirations Difference Maker is well known in the community for his superb fundr…
The Friendship Circle tells us about their New Years resolutions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:53
Mark Bergman visited the Lounge Group at the Friendship Circle of Montreal, to find out about their New Years resolutions. New goals! New foods! New hopes for 2020!❤️🎧You can now subscribe to The Inspirations News Podcas…
Vanessa Grimaldi's No Better You Foundation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:02
Vanessa Grimaldi, best known for winning The Bachelor Season 21, has always focused her attention on bringing awareness to students with learning disabilities. Host Mark Bergman chats with Vanessa about the reason why th…
Les Hiboux De Montreal - Montreal's blind hockey team! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:02
Now in their 41st season, Le Hiboux De Montreal is a team composed of visually impaired people in the greater metropolitan area. The team is recognized as a leader in team sports for people with visual disabilities. Mark…
Center for the Arts in Human Development [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:19
The Centre for the Arts in Human Development (CAHD) at Concordia University, established in 1996, is an educational, clinical and research centre serving adults with developmental disabilities and other special needs pop…
Learn more about the SCERT Conference! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:56
Mark Bergman chats with Clinical Director of the SCERT Conference, Ed Cukier. We'll be covering everything from independence & autonomy, to sexuality, parental stress, and more! Find out about all the amazing sessions yo…
Discover the incredible I Can Dream Theatre! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:19
You'll be inspired and uplifted by discovering the I Can Dream Theatre, a theatre group created for those with special needs. Host Mark Bergman chats with Musical Director/Choreographer Michele Matthews about their lates…
Montreal's Special Needs Shira Choir [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:40
Host Mark Bergman chats with Cantor Danny Benlolo about Montreal's incredible Shira Choir! Listen to their incredible talent, and find out how singing brings out the amazing potential of people with disabilities.