Shining Brighter

About Shining Brighter

We are putting a spotlight on success stories and solutions to the problems of exclusion and apathy in the world of people living with developmental disabilities and complex needs. To learn more about FSJACL visit www.fsjacl.com. Join the Inclusion Collective as a monthly donor to support mental health and wellness, www.fsjacl.com/inclusioncollective.

Publisher

Fort St John Association for Community Living

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

11 May 2026

Latest episode

15 May 2026

Latest episodes

26 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 May 2026

   Rethinking “Challenging Behaviour”

   In this episode of the Shining Brighter Podcast, host Jared sits down with Penny Dover, a Behavioural Consultant, to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in the world of developmental disabilities: behaviour.As part of our Myths & Misinformation series, this conversation challenges deeply rooted assumptions—revealing that what we often label as “bad behaviour” is actually something much more human: communication.“Misinformation: Can You Stop It?”This episode is part of a series supported by the BC Office of the Human Rights Commissioner, focused on confronting harmful myths and replacing them with truth, empathy, and lived experience. Learn more at www.bchumanrights.ca.In This Episode:Why behaviour is communication—not defianceThe myth that people act “on purpose” or “against” othersHow trauma, environment, and unmet needs shape behaviourWhy support plans are about empowerment, not controlThe importance of autonomy, dignity, and choiceHow small changes—like visual schedules—can transform daily lifeThe impact of stigma and labels like “aggressive”What real progress in support looks like todayKey Insight:One of the biggest myths?That behaviour needs to be “fixed.”In reality, the work is about changing how we listen, how we support, and how we show up.As Penny shares, meaningful support starts with one simple but powerful shift:➡️ Moving from judgment to curiosity➡️ From control to collaboration➡️ From reaction to understandingWhy This Matters:When behaviour is misunderstood, it creates barriers—to housing, to relationships, to dignity.But when we understand behaviour as communication, we open the door to:Better supportStronger relationshipsMore inclusive communitiesA Better Way Forward:This episode is an invitation to pause and reflect:What assumptions do we carry?Where did they come from?And what could change if we chose empathy instead?Listen now and be part of building a community where everyone is seen, heard, and supported.

2. 

   15 May 2026

   Breaking Myths About Disability & Work

   What happens when we stop assuming—and start listening?In this powerful episode of the Shining Brighter Podcast, we dive into the real stories behind employment, inclusion, and the myths that hold people back. Host Jared is joined by Jacia, a supported employee, and Tara, an employer and board member, for an honest and inspiring conversation about what inclusion truly looks like in the workplace.This episode is part of our Myths & Misinformation mini-series, supported by the BC Office of the Human Rights Commissioner’s campaign:“Misinformation: Can You Stop It?” Learn more at www.bchumanrights.caEpisode Highlights:The truth about supported employment and why it worksHow Jacia went from isolation to thriving in a professional workplaceWhy employers’ biggest fears (supervision, risk, confidentiality) are often mythsThe real impact of invisible disabilities and why they’re often misunderstoodHow inclusive hiring can transform workplace cultureWhat meaningful employment really means: growth, purpose, and belongingKey Takeaways:People with developmental disabilities are capable, skilled, and ready to contributeInclusion is not charity—it’s smart, human-centered leadershipAccommodations are often simple and benefit everyone in the workplaceMisinformation creates barriers that impact confidence, mental health, and opportunityWhen given the chance, supported employees often become some of the most reliable and dedicated team membersWhy This Matters:Jacia’s story challenges the myth that people with disabilities can’t work independently. Today, she manages confidential files, contributes to workplace initiatives, and plays an active role in shaping a more inclusive environment.Tara’s experience as an employer shows that inclusive hiring isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a better way to build strong teams.Final Thought:Don’t assume—create opportunity.When we challenge misinformation, we don’t just change minds—we change lives.Subscribe to the Shining Brighter Podcast for more real stories of inclusion, advocacy, and impact.

3. 

   15 May 2026

   Rethinking Disability in the Workplace

   In this episode of the Shining Brighter Podcast, host Jared is joined by Jilly-ann and Deborah from the Fort St. John Association for Community Living’s Careers Program for an honest, eye-opening conversation about employment, inclusion, and the myths that hold people back.This episode is part of a special mini-series focused on challenging misinformation, supported by the BC Office of the Human Rights Commissioner’s campaign: “Misinformation: Can You Stop It?”. Learn more at www.bchumanrights.ca. Together, they explore how common assumptions about people with developmental disabilities—especially in the workplace—can quietly limit opportunity before it even begins.Episode Highlights:The truth about supported employment and how it builds real independenceWhy hiring people with disabilities is not charity—but a smart business decisionHow job carving and job coaching create meaningful, sustainable rolesThe difference between accessibility and true inclusion in the workplaceHow misinformation prevents people from even getting a chance to prove themselvesWhy supported employees are often loyal, reliable, and long-term team membersKey Takeaways:People with developmental disabilities are capable, motivated, and ready to contributeEmployment provides more than income—it creates purpose, connection, and belongingSupport is designed to fade over time, building independence—not dependenceEmployers gain dedicated staff, stronger culture, and long-term stabilityThe biggest barrier is often not ability—but assumptionGet Involved:Interested in becoming a supported employer or learning more about inclusive hiring?📧 Reach out to our Careers team: careers@fsjacl.com🌐 Visit: https://fsjacl.com

Contact Shining Brighter

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.