Welcome to What's Literacy? by Literacy Quebec, a community-based podcast for English-speaking, lifelong literacy learners in Quebec. Our host, Dan Laxer, explores topics around community building, lifelong curiosity, and the multiple types of literacy. It's incredible what we can learn from each other!
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In this episode, get to know Literacy Quebec ’s new Executive Director, Faye Siluk, as she joins Dan for a conversation about what literacy really means, how it shapes our everyday lives, and why it matters to all of us. Plus, hear about International Literacy Day coming up on September 8th! In our new Community Spotlight series, hear from Cathy Brown, Executive Director of the Regional…
In our latest episode, host Dan Laxer sits down with Nicholas Salter, Executive Director at Provincial Employment Roundtable ( PERT ), and John Buck, President and CEO at CEDEC , to explore the connection between literacy and employment. Together, they discuss how literacy serves as a foundational pathway to employment, the broader economic and community benefits of strengthening literacy skills,…
In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25) , we’re proud to shine a spotlight on an incredible volunteer making a difference. Hear from special guest Kirtan Varasia , a dedicated volunteer tutor with RECLAIM Literacy , as he shares his experiences, what he’s learned through volunteerism, and the impact of helping learners build essential literacy skills. We’re also featuring Joy…
In celebration of Adult Learners’ Week (March 29–April 4, 2026) , Dan chats with Lina Shoumarova, Senior Research Associate at Quebec English-Speaking Communities Research Network (QUESCREN) , about what adult learning can look like and why it matters. Plus, hear a sneak preview of our upcoming research project with QUESCREN! We’re also highlighting members making a difference: Wendy Seys (…
In this episode, Dan is joined by Ronika Khanna (CPA, CA, CFA) from Montreal Finance to break down the essentials of income taxes and the real power of financial literacy. From understanding why filing matters to practical tips that make tax season more manageable (and far less intimidating), Ronika shares advice to help you approach your finances with clarity and confidence. We’re also proud to…
In this episode, we're celebrating World Read Aloud Day! Held on the first Wednesday of every February, this day highlights the power of reading aloud in building community and promoting literacy. To honour this day, Dan chats with children's author Sara O'Leary about her work and the benefits that reading aloud has. Sara's children's books include A Kid is a Kid is a Kid, This is Sadie, When You…
In this episode, Dan speaks with Tracy Woodward, Social Integration Skills Instructor at Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB), about the impact of mental health on literacy skills. Tracy shares her experiences at the Douglas Mental Health Institute, where she helps individuals reintegrate into the community by teaching essential social skills. She compassionately explains how mental illness can…
Have you ever heard of the term "AI literacy"? In this episode, Dan chats with Charlotte Nurse, Director of Programs at Canada Learning Code . Charlotte unpacks what AI really is, how it works, and how we can use it responsibly and effectively, such as a tool to enhance learning and boost productivity. If you're nervous about AI use, you won't want to miss this conversation! Plus, hear from two of…
Talking about money can often feel anxiety-inducing for many of us...but it doesn't have to be. Join host Dan Laxer as he chats with Li Zhang, Director of Social Impact and Financial Literacy Leader at CPA Canada . Li leads CPA Canada’s Financial Literacy Program and Indigenous Mentorship Program, helping Canadians build confidence in managing their finances. They dive into why it’s important to…
Join Dan Laxer as he chats with Therese Callahan, the Community Outreach Coordinator at Assistance and Referral Centre (ARC) , for an insightful conversation on health literacy! In this episode, they dive into the amazing work ARC does to help English-speaking Quebecers on the South Shore navigate health and social services. Dan and Therese also talk about what health literacy is and why it…
