Podcast
Books Panel
Hosted by Ali Moosa · EN
We will discuss books suggested by a member of the Panel. Hosted by Ali, Macara, Ashlyn, Paul, Lynn and Siena.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
"Living Disability", Friday, July 31, 2026
2w ago01:07:41Tap to summarizeReading habits and environmentsMembers described preferred reading environments while utilizing various screen reading technologies. These sessions rely on minimizing distractions to maintain focus.Disability justice analysisThe group evaluated a text on disability justice, focusing on the social model of disability and systemic barriers. They agreed that disability does not define an individual's potential.Operational and platform updatesParticipants reviewed their transition to Google Workspace, noting improved accessibility for screen readers. The panel affirmed that future book discussions remain self-directed to encourage organic conversation.To learn more about the show, as well as all of the programming on The Moosa Slobodian Network, please visit themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca. While you're there, subscribe to the newsletters so you never miss show and network updates.
Transcribe →"The Huntress", Friday, June 26, 2026
Jun 2700:56:27Tap to summarizeRereading Habits and Motivations Participants explored rereading books to access personal memories or reevaluate past values. This practice serves as a time capsule for one's own history.Analyzing The Huntress The panel commended the narrative pacing, character complexity, and historical research behind the novel. Readers agreed that the story's heavy themes and realistic, open-ended resolution were effective.Operational Updates The group decided to introduce a new Expanded Thoughts session to facilitate deeper discussions. Planning for upcoming panel books and various community workshops was finalized.To learn more about the show, as well as all of the programming on The Moosa Slobodian Network, please visit, themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca. While you're there, subscribe so you never miss show and network updates!
Transcribe →"Anxiously Attached", Friday, May 29, 2026
May 3001:04:59Tap to summarizeLiterature and Book Review Panelists identified books that fostered empathy and personal growth while reviewing Anxiously Attached for its nonclinical, relatable approach to attachment. Participants noted the book effectively addresses modern challenges like isolation and codependency.Connection and Professional Growth Discussion shifted to the impact of the pandemic on human connection and the necessity of virtual platforms for maintaining community. Members acknowledged that professional skill development through tech tools remains central to brand expansion.Future Programming and Branding The group aligned on a strategy to streamline network branding and improve cross-promotion across newsletters and social media handles. Participants finalized schedules for upcoming shows and confirmed selection of a new book title.To learn more about the show, as well as all of the programming on The Moosa Slobodian Network, please visit themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca. While you're there, subscribe so you never miss network and show updates.
Transcribe →"Behind The Bench", Friday, Apr 24, 2026
Apr 2500:57:49Tap to summarizeInitial ImpressionsThe panel began discussing Dan Bylsma's opening chapter of, "Behind the Bench", about coaching the Pittsburgh Penguins.The book effectively showcased how coaches motivate players to reach their potential.Mike Babcock's Coaching ControversiesExtended discussion about Mike Babcock's problematic coaching methods and their ethical implications.Babcock's coaching methods were viewed as bullying and power moves rather than effective leadershipHis tactics demonstrated a failure to adapt to modern coaching standardsDespite past success, including coaching Team Canada to Olympic gold in 2010.Joel Quenneville and the Kyle Beach ScandalExamination of the 2010 Chicago Blackhawks sexual assault case and coaching leadership failures.The incident represented a complete absence of leadership and duty of care toward playersQuenneville resigned from the Florida Panthers in 2021 when the report was releasedHe couldn't secure another NHL job for three years, eventually being hired by Anaheim Ducks.Coaching Shelf Life and VulnerabilityDiscussion about the typical career span of NHL coaches.Coaching in the NHL is inherently unstable with limited job securityPerformance expectations and team dynamics create natural turnover cyclesThe role requires balancing toughness and empathy.Fighting in HockeyDiscussion about the role and necessity of fighting in professional hockey.Panel consensus was that fighting is unnecessary and doesn't enhance the sportOther passionate sports manage without fighting, hockey could as wellPositive Coaching ExamplesDiscussion of coaches who demonstrated better leadership approach.Coaching requires a balance between toughness and empathyDifferent coaching styles can be successful depending on context and personnelPersonal Hockey ConnectionsPanel members shared personal stories of hockey viewing and family traditions.Hockey viewing is often a family tradition with strong emotional connectionsThe fast pace and small puck size can make the sport challenging to follow on televisionPassionate fan reactions are a common part of the hockey-watching experience.Upcoming Programming and Book SelectionsFuture shows and book selections for the Musa Slobodian Network.Ali: Announced "I Must Say" by Martin Short for the next Ali and Macara Show on April 26, 2026Siena: Expressed interest in whether Martin Short narrates the audiobookPaul: Suggested it should be read by Martin Short himself.Ali: Announced Daniele Franceschi from Sportsnet will discuss the Toronto Maple Leafs GM search on April 28, 2026Ali: Announced "Anxiously Attached" by Jessica Baum for the next Books Panel on May 29, 2026Ali: Encouraged panel members to submit book suggestions for 2027The network has diverse programming planned including comedy memoirs, sports analysis, and psychology topicsBook selections span multiple genres to appeal to varied interestsPanel members are encouraged to contribute book recommendationsTechstravaganza ProgrammingSiena outlined upcoming technical tutorial sessions.Siena: Announced tutorial on navigating email threads in the Mail app on iPhone for April 29, 2026Siena: Mentioned cable organization topic scheduled for May 6, 2026Ali: Confirmed Techstravaganza airs Wednesdays at 1pm EasternSiena: Noted tutorials are available as podcasts at techstravaganza.caTextravaganza provides accessibility technology trainingTopics address common user challenges with assistive technologySessions are available both live and as archived podcasts.Book Recommendations and Reading HabitsPanel members discussed additional hockey-related reading recommendations."Burke's Law" was recommended as an excellent follow-up for understanding hockey leadershipBrian Burke represents a more progressive and empathetic approach to hockey managementPanel members are developing deeper appreciation for hockey literature
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“Theo of Golden”, Friday, Mar 27, 2026
Mar 2800:55:32Tap to summarizeBook Completion Habits Discussion The group discussed book completion habits, starting with Paul sharing that he rarely abandons books and has only left one unfinished – a 1,400-page book from 1978 called “The Book of Lists” that he wants to finish. Paul explained his philosophy of finishing books out of respect for the author’s work, even when he disagrees with the content. Ali admitted that while he claims to finish all books, he actually doesn’t always complete every one he starts. Book Preferences and Reading Habits The group discussed book preferences and reading habits. Ali shared that they sometimes put down books if the content doesn’t appeal to them or if there’s too much descriptive detail. Macara challenged this assertion and shared that they had also put down books, including Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, due to lack of connection with the characters or engagement with the story. The discussion highlighted personal preferences in reading and the importance of finding reasons to connect with a book’s content or characters. Theo of Golden Discussion The group discussed the book “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi, focusing on its themes of human connection, resilience, and the balance of joy and grief. They explored how the main character, Theo, uses art to connect with people and uncover their stories, noting the book’s thoughtful pacing and character development. The discussion also touched on the book’s Christian themes, though participants felt they were presented subtly rather than heavily. The conversation ended with updates on upcoming shows, including discussions about podcasts, NHL playoffs, and various technology topics scheduled for April and May. Find the List of Books The Panel is Reading This Year at The Following Link https://bookspanel.ca/2025/12/19/corrected-books-panel-2026-schedule/ Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Books-Panel-p4644216/ On Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bookspanel Like The Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579006388583 Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Join the Discord server: Please note: if the link does not work, please let us know, and we will send you a new link privately. https://discord.gg/PuAGpKCM Subscribe to the hub site so you never miss network updates and to learn more about all of the shows: http://www.themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Send us an email: feedback@bookspanel.ca Looking for tips and tricks on using your favourite devices? Check out Techstravaganza: http://www.techstravaganza.ca
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“Fan Fiction”, by Brent Spiner, Friday, Feb 27, 2026
Feb 2800:59:03Tap to summarizeDiscussed topics Brent Spiner’s “Fan Fiction” The panel discussed the genre and nature of Brent Spiner’s book, debating whether it was fiction, memoir, or a blend of both. Details Siena: Noted the blurred lines between fiction and reality in the book, making it difficult to determine what parts were real and what parts were fictional Paul: Described the book as “symbolic of celebrity” – both humorous and scary, amusing and dark, reflecting the nature of celebrity and fandom Macara: Suggested the book reads like fanfiction itself, with Spiner placing himself and coworkers into an alternative universe Lynn: Mentioned the book has been described as “noir comedy” Ali: Found the book odd, particularly the characters Cindy Lou Jones and Candy Lou Conclusion The book effectively explores the complex relationship between celebrities and fans The title “Fan Fiction” is fitting as it plays with both the concept of fiction written by fans and the blurry line between reality and fiction Celebrity and fandom culture The panel explored how the book addresses the relationship between celebrities and fans, and the potential dark side of fandom. Details Paul: Highlighted how the book shows fandom can be both positive and negative – “it can be amusing and cute at once, and then if it gets too intense, it becomes somewhat unnerving and troubling” Lynn: Noted that celebrity life isn’t always glamorous when privacy is invaded Macara: Discussed how the word “fan” comes from “fanatic” and the pathologization of fandom Paul: Mentioned real-life examples of celebrities dealing with obsessive fans, like Taylor Swift Conclusion The book effectively portrays the double-edged nature of celebrity It raises questions about where normal appreciation ends and unhealthy obsession begins Gender representation in the book Macara raised a point about how men and women are portrayed in the book. Details Macara: Questioned if the portrayal of gender was a mechanism of the noir genre, noting the “toxic masculinity thing of sort of holding back emotions” Siena: Found the twin sisters Cindy Lou Jones and Candy Lou confusing and ambiguous in their motives Conclusion The book’s gender portrayal may be influenced by noir genre conventions The female characters, particularly the Lou sisters, have ambiguous roles that contribute to the mystery Panel members’ reading preferences Each panel member shared their favorite book genres and reading habits. Details Paul: Enjoys non-fiction, memoirs, and has been expanding his reading to include different genres Macara: Prefers fiction, particularly fantasy, but reads widely across genres Siena: Loves fiction, biographies, memoirs, and audio adaptations of books Ali: Enjoys books about sports (MLB and NHL), from coaches, athletes, and broadcasters, as well as political books Lynn: Grew up reading fiction but has increasingly enjoyed non-fiction, particularly topics she’s personally interested in Ashlyn: Mentioned enjoying mystery books, specifically the Cape Bertholder series Conclusion The panel has diverse reading interests spanning fiction and non-fiction Many members are expanding their reading horizons beyond their preferred genres Parasport discussion The conversation briefly shifted to discussing Paralympic sports. Details Paul: Shared his experience with wheelchair basketball and watching Paralympic events Ashlyn: Mentioned playing sledge sports Paul: Described wheelchair rugby (formerly called “Murderball”) and recommended a documentary about it Siena: Asked about how the equipment works for wheelchair sports Conclusion Paralympic sports are gaining more media attention The documentary “Murderball” was recommended for those interested in learning more about wheelchair rugby Upcoming shows and events The hosts announced upcoming shows on their network. Details Ali: Announced his NHL trade deadline show on March 5th with Ryan Payton Macara: Announced The Ali and Macara Show on March 1st discussing Kamala Harris’ book “107 Days” Siena: Mentioned upcoming Techstravaganza episodes on March 4th (Google Tasks) and March 12th (JAWS tutorial) Macara: Announced the next Books Panel on March 27th discussing “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi Conclusion The network has a full schedule of upcoming shows covering technology, sports, politics, and literature Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Books-Panel-p4644216/ On Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bookspanel Like The Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579006388583 Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Join the Discord server: Please note: if the link does not work, please let us know, and we will send you a new link privately. https://discord.gg/PuAGpKCM Subscribe to the hub site so you never miss network updates and to learn more about all of the shows: http://www.themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Send us an email: feedb...
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“Anatomy of a Con Artist”, Thursday, Jan 29, 2026
Jan 3000:55:25Tap to summarizeBook recommendation background The panel discussed why Siena recommended “Anatomy of a Con Artist” by Johnathan Walton. Details Siena: Selected the book because she teaches technology and frequently gets questions about staying safe from scams Siena: Appreciated that the book was research-backed but also shared personal experiences of the author and victims Siena: Highlighted that the book covers not just online scams but also those perpetrated by people you know and trust Conclusion The book offers valuable insights for anyone teaching about technology safety Personal stories make the content more relatable than just statistics Con artist tactics The panel explored various tactics used by scammers as described in the book. Details Lynn: Shared personal experiences of being targeted while traveling abroad when tired or disoriented Ali: Emphasized the quote from the book that people fall for scams when acting on emotion rather than using their head Siena: Described how scammers prey on natural human instincts to help others Siena: Shared a personal story about almost being scammed when someone asked to borrow her phone Ali: Explained how robocall software works by randomly generating numbers and recording voices Conclusion Scammers are becoming more sophisticated as technology advances Being in vulnerable emotional states (tired, lost, stressed) increases susceptibility Con artists often establish trust before attempting to scam victims Safety tips The group shared advice on how to avoid becoming victims of scams. Details Ali: Recommended not answering calls from unknown numbers Ali: Advised against using iPhone’s “silence unknown callers” feature in certain situations Ali: Suggested telling important contacts to leave messages or call twice if urgent Lynn: Mentioned her practice of “block, delete” for suspicious emails Ali: Emphasized the importance of understanding device settings Conclusion Trust your contact list and be cautious with unknown numbers Learn how to adjust settings on your devices for better security Be especially vigilant when in vulnerable situations Book writing style The panel discussed the author’s approach to writing about scams. Details Lynn: Praised the targeted writing style and helpful observations Macara: Appreciated that it wasn’t sanitized like many books on the subject Macara: Noted how the author’s television producer background may have helped him present information in an engaging way Lynn: Valued the human experience approach rather than just statistics Siena: Highlighted the author’s non-judgmental tone and empathy for victims Conclusion The book’s personal approach makes it more accessible and effective The author’s empathy helps reduce shame for victims The writing style helps reach a wider audience than academic approaches would Upcoming shows and events The panel shared information about upcoming broadcasts and events. Details Ali: Announced Jim Tatti will be on the Ali Moosa show on February 2nd, 2026 Ali: Mentioned David Schachter will be appearing on either February 3rd or 6th Ali: Noted Becky Coles will return on April 20th Macara: Confirmed the next Books Panel will be on February 27th, 2026 Siena: Announced an upcoming Techstravaganza workshop about the Mac Finder Lynn: Expressed excitement about future book selections, particularly “The Huntress” by Kate Quinn in June Conclusion The network has a full schedule of upcoming shows planned The next Books Panel will discuss “Fan Fiction”, by Brent Spiner Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Books-Panel-p4644216/ On Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bookspanel Like The Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579006388583 Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Join the Discord server: Please note: if the link does not work, please let us know, and we will send you a new link privately. https://discord.gg/PuAGpKCM Subscribe to the hub site so you never miss network updates and to learn more about all of the shows: http://www.themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Send us an email: feedback@bookspanel.ca Looking for tips and tricks on using your favourite devices? Check out Techstravaganza: http://www.techstravaganza.ca
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“Canada”, Friday, Dec 26, 2025
Dec 2700:57:51Tap to summarizeMike Myers’ book “Canada” The panel discussed various aspects of Mike Myers’ book about Canadian identity and his personal experiences. Details Jeffrey: Recommended the book, describing it as funny, featuring different voices, free (at the time), not too long, and about Canada Jeffrey: Noted how Myers’ character voices in the book connect to his movie characters (e.g., his father’s Liverpudlian accent resembling Austin Powers voices) Siena: Enjoyed the book’s blend of autobiography and history, mentioning she “couldn’t put it down” Ali: Mentioned he was about 40-41% through the book Jeffrey: Shared that Lynn (absent panelist) described reading the book as “like having Mike Myers as a guest in your living room” Conclusion The book effectively balances personal memoir with broader Canadian history and identity Myers offers a unique perspective as someone who hasn’t lived in Canada full-time since 1983 Canadian storytelling and humor The panel discussed Myers’ observations about Canadian storytelling tendencies and humor. Details Jeffrey: Highlighted Myers’ observation that Canadian stories tend to be morbid Siena: Found humor in Myers’ recurring phrase “in front of his kids, eh?” added to morbid stories Macara: Noted it was a great comedy payoff when the phrase unexpectedly returned Jeffrey: Mentioned Myers’ observation about Canadians saying “in hospital” rather than “the hospital” Conclusion Myers effectively captures uniquely Canadian speech patterns and storytelling quirks The book uses humor to highlight distinctive Canadian cultural traits Canadian dialects and slang The panel explored Myers’ discussion of regional Canadian accents and unique terminology. Details Macara: Appreciated Myers’ descriptions of different Canadian dialects, including Newfoundland and Vancouver Jeffrey: Mentioned Myers’ distinction between “old Canadian accent” and “young Canadian accent” Jeffrey: Highlighted slang terms from the book like “Molson muscle” and “Scarborough suitcase” (a 24-pack of beer) Siena: Found the “Molson muscle” reference particularly amusing Macara: Noted the various nicknames for Canadian Tire mentioned in the book Siena: Shared that her father used to call it “crappy tire” just like in the book Conclusion The book effectively captures regional linguistic differences across Canada Myers documents Canadian slang that might be unfamiliar even to some Canadians Hockey and Canadian identity The panel discussed the role of hockey in the book and Canadian identity. Details Ali: Noted that Myers is “a Leaf fan through and through” Jeffrey: Mentioned how hockey follows Myers throughout the book, from childhood to his time in the US Ali: Referenced the Blue Jays’ World Series run and Queen’s “I Want It All” as another example of Canadian pride Conclusion Hockey serves as a consistent thread throughout Myers’ life and the book Sports are presented as a significant element of Canadian identity Canadian manufacturing and globalization The panel discussed Myers’ references to Canadian manufacturing and how it has changed. Details Jeffrey: Noted Myers’ mentions of Canadian products like Electrohome TVs and Claritone stereos Jeffrey: Observed that “myself and your own children have not known a Canada before globalization” Jeffrey: Mentioned how Canada used to be more self-contained, making more products domestically Conclusion The book captures a Canada that has changed significantly due to globalization Myers documents brands and products that were once part of Canadian identity but have disappeared Current Canada-US relations The discussion briefly diverged to current political tensions between Canada and the US. Details Ali: Expressed concern about potential future conflict between Canada and the US Ali: Discussed the “elbows up” and “buy Canadian” movements Jeffrey: Noted challenges with interprovincial trade and inflation affecting Canadian-made goods Siena: Wondered if NATO would support Canada in a potential conflict Macara: Suggested economic and logistical changes were more likely than direct conflict Conclusion The panel had differing views on the future of Canada-US relations The discussion connected to themes of Canadian identity raised in Myers’ book Upcoming shows and events The panel shared information about upcoming shows on their network. Details Ali: Announced Claude Fay would appear on The Ali Moosa Show on December 30thto discuss NHL and Maple Leafs Ali: Mentioned Becky Coles returning on January 19th, 2026, and Jim Tatti on February 2nd Macara: Announced the Ali and Macara Show on December 28th discussing “Iron Mike” by Mike Keenan and doing a year in review Macara: Mentioned Steve Barkley joining on December 29th to discuss assistive technology Siena: Noted Textravaganza coming up on January 7th, likely covering the Reminders app Conclusion Multiple shows are scheduled for the end of 2025 and beginning of 2026 The Books Panel will return on January 30th, 2026 Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/...
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Bill C-15, Tuesday, Dec 16, 2025
Dec 1700:54:42Tap to summarizeBill C-15 and its impact on accessible materials The panel discussed the proposed legislation that would remove mandatory free postal service for accessible materials. Details Jeff: Learned about the bill through a LinkedIn message about “free postal service for accessible materials in jeopardy”; began spreading awareness to over 300 contacts Ali: Questioned whether the government is indirectly saying they don’t want to continue funding this service Jeff: Believes it’s not that they don’t have money, but that “they just didn’t want to put money towards it” despite it being a “relative drop in the bucket” Macara: Noted that Canada Post wants “unilateral control of changing the postage prices” without government consultation Jeff: Clarified that the bill doesn’t immediately end free shipping but removes the legal requirement for Canada Post to offer it Conclusion The amendment would make free postal service for accessible materials optional rather than mandatory Canada Post has publicly stated they will continue to honor their obligation while simultaneously supporting the bill Advocates are concerned about future changes once the legal requirement is removed Digital transition challenges for print-disabled users The group discussed the challenges faced by print-disabled individuals when services transition to digital-only formats. Details Ali: Noted that CELA stopped producing and mailing CDs, which impacts those who depend on physical media Jeff: Highlighted that many people, especially elderly users, struggle with technology adoption Ali: Acknowledged that while he can easily adapt to digital formats, many users find technology “confusing and difficult” Jeff: Mentioned inadequate training resources, with only 10 hours available through assistive devices programs Jeff: Pointed out that rural areas often lack broadband internet access, making digital-only solutions impractical Macara: Raised concerns about job losses for braille transcribers if physical formats are discontinued Conclusion Digital-only solutions exclude many users who lack technology skills or access Training resources are insufficient for many users to make the transition Infrastructure limitations (like rural broadband) create additional barriers The importance of choice in accessible formats The panel emphasized that maintaining multiple format options is crucial for accessibility. Details Jeff: Compared the situation to restaurants using tablets for ordering – people may use it when required but prefer traditional methods Macara: Asked why the blind community shouldn’t have the same choices as sighted readers who can choose between print and digital Jeff: Noted that print books remain popular despite digital alternatives, with Chapters/Indigo stores still thriving Ali: Suggested there needs to be a middle ground approach that maintains options Jeff: Questioned why CELA discontinued CDs and whether there was any consultation with users Conclusion Choice is a fundamental aspect of accessibility The trend toward eliminating physical formats disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations A middle ground approach is needed that maintains multiple format options Impact on specialized communities The discussion touched on how these changes affect specific communities within the print-disabled population. Details Jeff: Highlighted the deaf-blind community as a “minority within a minority” particularly impacted by these changes Macara: Noted that rural and remote communities often have less access to CNIB services Jeff: Mentioned that CNIB services vary by region, with some areas receiving minimal support Ali: Suggested that CELA may not be producing new braille materials but simply distributing existing stock Conclusion Specialized communities face compounded barriers when services are reduced Geographic location creates additional accessibility challenges Service reductions disproportionately impact those with multiple disabilities Observations on this Occuring Under a Mark Carney Government An additional observation was made by Jeff, that it is very ironic that the Carney government is legislating de-regulation. In Carney’s book, Values, (which was discussed during a Panel), one of the reoccurring themes is the need to have regulations and safeguards in play in order to avoid complacency. Whether it be trust in the free market, past and future forms of currency, environmental endeavours, etc. Carney repeatedly emphasized regulations so that people would not become complacent. The Following is the Link to Saturday’s The Ali and Macara Show, Where Bill C-15 was Briefly Discussed https://thealiandmacarashow.ca/2025/12/13/sheryl-crow-saturday-dec-13-2025/ Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Books-Panel-p4644216/ On Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bookspanel Like The Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579006388583 Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Join the Discord server: Please note: if the link does not work, please let us know, and we will send you a new link privately. https://discord.gg/PuAGpKCM Subscribe to the hub site so you never miss network updates and to learn more about all of the shows: http://www.themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Send us an email: feedback@bookspanel.ca Looking for tips and tricks on using your favourite devices? Check out Techstravaganza: http://www.techstravaganza...
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