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For years, accessibility has been a buzzword in PR and communications. Agencies, brands, and industry leaders have all made commitments to be more inclusive. Statements are issued, diversity and accessibility are woven into mission statements, and companies declare their commitment to reaching all audiences. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: saying you prioritize accessibility is not the same as actually being accessible.

The reality is that too many PR and communications professionals talk about accessibility while continuing to use tactics, tools, and platforms that exclude people with disabilities.

How can pros stop treating accessibility as an afterthought and start making it a core part of communication strategies?

My guest, Matisse Hamel-Nelis, ADS, CPACC, an award-winning accessible communications and marketing consultant, trainer, professor, and speaker, is with me to discuss this important topic.

“Trust doesn’t only come from facts and data. It comes from clarity.” Accessible communications and marketing expert, Matisse Hamel-Nelis offers tips on how to create crisis communications that reaches all audiences.

First impressions matter, and accessibility is often won or lost in those first few moments. Matisse Hamel-Nelis is here to talk about how accessibility starts at ‘hello.’

In honour of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re in for an honest conversation with Matisse Hamel-Nelis, who opens up about her personal and professional journey with bipolar disorder.

Matisse Hamel-Nelis has details on Durham College’s IDEA-centric new program, integrating Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility into the foundation of modern PR education.

AI is no longer a buzzword; it’s reshaping how we communicate and connect. For those of us in PR and communications, it’s a game-changer, offering tools that make our work faster, smarter and more accessible. But like any tool, it comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to inclusivity.

So, how can we, as communicators, make the most of what AI brings to the table while addressing the potential pitfalls?

We live in a time when communication is more diverse and dynamic than ever. From social media posts to email newsletters and video campaigns to podcasts, the ways we connect with audiences are constantly evolving. But as we craft compelling messages and adopt new formats, one question lingers: How accessible are our communications… really?

Accessibility is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’. It’s officially a legal obligation. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is reshaping how organizations communicate, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to information. For PR professionals, this is a critical moment: The compliance deadline has passed, and failure to meet accessibility standards could mean penalties – not just financial, but reputational.

On today’s show, we explore how to make popular resolutions (like fitness, travel, and learning) accessible to all, with Matisse Hamel-Nelis. Describer and traveller JJ Hunt takes us on a virtual tour of some of his favourite beaches. And what does it mean to eat more plant-based, and are we doing it right? Nutritionist Julia Karantjas answers our questions on the topic.

Anthony Frisina chats with Matisse Hamel-Nelis about the Barrier-Free deadline, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and much more.