エピソード

  • Turin2025: Nick Mills, SO USA - Alpine Skiing

    Turin2025: Nick Mills, SO USA - Alpine Skiing
    2025/05/12
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Nick Mills, a dedicated Special Olympics athlete from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, who has been part of the Special Olympics family for 20 years. Nick has competed in a variety of sports, including Alpine skiing, basketball, athletics, bowling, soccer, and volleyball. He’s also actively involved in the Special Olympics South Dakota Athlete Leadership Council and serves as a Health Messenger. In this special recap of the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, Nick shares his journey and experience as part of Special Olympics USA . Hear about his deep passion for Alpine skiing, his preparation for the World Winter Games, and the valuable lessons he’s learned about health, fitness, and leadership along the way. We also dive into Nick’s unique perspective on balancing a successful career as a software support specialist and administrative assistant with his athletic goals. Nick’s travels to over 20 states and several countries have also enriched his Special Olympics journey, and he shares how these experiences have shaped his perspective on inclusion and the power of sport. Join us as we discuss the personal and professional milestones that have led to his success, the incredible memories from competing at the World Winter Games, and the meaningful impact of his work as an advocate for health and inclusion. Episode Highlights: Nick’s 20-year journey in Special Olympics and how he got startedHis experience competing in a range of sports, with a focus on Alpine skiingPreparing for the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 and balancing career and athletic goalsThe importance of physical health and mental well-being in Nick’s training and daily lifeWhat inclusion means to Nick and how Special Olympics has impacted his lifeMemorable moments from Turin 2025, both in competition and overall experience Tune in for an inspiring conversation with an athlete who has dedicated his life to both sports and advocating for others, while showing us all the power of inclusion. Listen now on Special Chronicles! Episode 767 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast767 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles📺Watch Now! Watch (and Subscribe) Full Episode on YouTubeEnjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet involved in the Special Olympics Movement Connect with Special Olympics USA Meet The Turin 2025 Team Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus premium content: Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Shop Our Merch: Shop Our Disabled Voices Matter Collection 📱Follow us on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📧Email: Send us a message here 📧Newsletter: Subscribe to our Mailing List HERE🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: Learn more and Book Daniel to speak HERE 💡Partner: ComEd EnergyForce ✈️Partner: United Airlines Bridge BRG📻Podcast Hosting: Podbean 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now! Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    32 分
  • Special Mother's Day Episode | MomPod

    Special Mother's Day Episode | MomPod
    2025/05/11

    🎙️ Episode 250 – Special Mother’s Day Live Podcast with Daniel & His Mom Recorded live from the Imperial Oak Brewery in Willow Springs, Illinois, this heartfelt 30-minute episode celebrates Mother’s Day with a very special guest—Daniel Smrokowski’s mom, Linda Smrokowski!

    Join Daniel and his mom for a touching and inspiring conversation as they reflect on:

    • Daniel’s miraculous birth story—born three-and-a-third months premature
    • The developmental therapies and support Daniel received growing up
    • What it’s like raising a son with special needs, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, and a severe language disorder
    • Candid moments, laughter, and love from a mother and son who’ve been through it all—together

    Whether you're a parent, advocate, or simply looking for an uplifting story, this episode offers insight, hope, and lots of heart. Don’t miss this special celebration of motherhood and resilience.

    👉 Tune in and celebrate with us!

    ShowNotes & Links
    • 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles
    • 📺Watch Now! Watch (and Subscribe) Full Episodes on YouTube
    • Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles
    • ➕Want bonus premium content: Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS
    • 🛒Shop Our Merch: Shop Our Disabled Voices Matter Collection
    • 📱Follow us on Socials: @SpecialChronicles
    • 📧Email: Send us a message here
    • 📧Newsletter: Subscribe to our Mailing List HERE
    • 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: Learn more and Book Daniel to speak HERE
    • 💡Partner: ComEd EnergyForce
    • ✈️Partner: United Airlines Bridge BRG
    • 📻Podcast Hosting: Podbean
    • 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard
    • 🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now!
    • Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
    About the Podcast Host:

    Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    31 分
  • Turin2025: Natalie Green and Trey Garrett, SO USA - DanceSport

    Turin2025: Natalie Green and Trey Garrett, SO USA - DanceSport
    2025/05/05
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with two incredible athletes, Natalie Green and Trey Garrett, both of whom represented Special Olympics USA in DanceSport at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. Join us as we dive into their journeys, advocacy for inclusion, and the transformative power of sport. In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: For Natalie Green: Natalie’s journey in Special Olympics Movement : From her first involvement in 2012 to becoming a voice for inclusion and a Special Olympics U.S. Youth Ambassador.The power of inclusion: Why inclusion is a core part of Natalie’s advocacy work and what it means to her personally.Dad n' Nat Unified Nation Podcast: Natalie talks about her podcast exploring the #GenerationUnified movement, a powerful initiative that promotes unity and inclusion.Special Olympics USA Games 2018: Natalie reflects on her experience as a youth leader and how it shaped her role as a global ambassador.Humans of New York feature: How it felt to have her impactful story shared during the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.Co-authoring Stand – An Inclusion Story: The inspiration behind her book and the message she hopes to share with readers.Turin 2025 and the next chapter of her advocacy: What she hopes to achieve as she competes and promotes global inclusion.The influence of DanceSport and esports: How competing in these sports has shaped her understanding of teamwork, unity, and personal growth.Advice for young athletes: What Natalie would tell young people looking to join Special Olympics or get involved in inclusive sports. For Trey Garrett: Trey’s Special Olympics journey: What inspired Trey to get involved in Special Olympics and how it has impacted his life.DanceSport at Turin 2025: Trey talks about his preparations and what excites him about competing in this new area of sport.Friendships and community: How Special Olympics has helped Trey form lasting connections and meaningful friendships.Balancing life: Trey discusses how he manages his job, hobbies, family time, and Special Olympics commitments.Representing Special Olympics USA on the world stage: What it means to Trey to represent his country at the World Winter Games in Turin.Travel and Disney: Trey shares some of his favorite travel experiences and how Disney is a special part of his life.Looking forward to Turin: Trey’s excitement to meet new people, take photos, and experience everything Turin has to offer.Preparation for DanceSport: How Trey is mentally and physically getting ready for his DanceSport competition.Advice for new athletes: Trey’s tips for athletes looking to take their Special Olympics involvement to the next level.Pride in his journey: Trey reflects on what he’s most proud of and what’s next for him after Turin. For Both: #GenerationUnified: Natalie and Trey discuss the meaning of the #GenerationUnified movement and its significance for the future of Special Olympics and inclusion.Advocacy for inclusion: How their experiences with Special Olympics have shaped their missions to advocate for respect and inclusivity.Key lessons learned: The most impactful lessons Natalie and Trey have gained from their involvement in Special Olympics and what they want others to take away.Fostering global inclusion: Their thoughts on how Special Olympics can continue to break down barriers and create an inclusive global community.Celebrating the power of sport: Looking back at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, Natalie and Trey share their vision for how the global community can come together to celebrate unity through sport. Tune in to hear about the amazing journeys of two athletes who are not just competing on the world stage but also using their voices to inspire others and advocate for inclusion. Episode 766 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast766 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles 📺Watch Now! Watch (and Subscribe) Full Episode on YouTubeEnjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games. Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet involved in the Special Olympics Movement Connect with Special Olympics USA Meet The Turin 2025 TeamNatalie Green’s Podcast: Dad n' Nat Unified NationFollow Natalie: Instagram Follow Trey: Instagram Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus premium content: Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Shop Our Merch: Shop Our Disabled Voices Matter Collection 📱Follow us on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📧Email: Send us a message here 📧Newsletter: Subscribe to our Mailing List HERE🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: Learn more and Book Daniel to speak HERE 💡Partner: ComEd EnergyForce ✈️Partner: United Airlines ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    48 分
  • Turin2025: Coach Jim Bluemond, SO USA - Snowshoeing

    Turin2025: Coach Jim Bluemond, SO USA - Snowshoeing
    2025/04/28
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down Jim Bluemond, a dedicated Special Olympics coach who will be representing Special Olympics USA as a snowshoeing coach at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, in 2025. Jim has been involved in the Special Olympics Movement for the past three years, and his personal connection to the organization runs deep. As a parent of a Special Olympics athlete, Jim has a unique perspective on coaching and supporting athletes of all abilities. Jim shares his journey into coaching, his experience working with athletes, and how his family—his wife Christine, daughter Emma, and son Ben—have all been key players in his Special Olympics involvement. We also discuss his preparations for the World Winter Games, his approach to coaching, and what he hopes to accomplish at this prestigious event. Whether you're a coach, parent, or someone interested in the impact of Special Olympics, Jim’s story is sure to inspire. Tune in to learn more about his coaching philosophy, the importance of family in the Special Olympics community, and what makes these athletes truly extraordinary. Key Topics Discussed: Jim's journey into Special Olympics and becoming a coachThe role of family in supporting athletes, including Jim’s own family’s involvementCoaching strategies and overcoming challenges with athletes of varying abilitiesWhat Jim is most excited about for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in TurinHow Jim is preparing his snowshoeing team for the competitionThe impact of Special Olympics events on athletes’ lives, both on and off the fieldPersonal insights on being a parent to a Special Olympics athlete and how that shapes his coaching approachJim’s passion for Star Wars and how it connects to his life as a coach and father Listen now to hear Jim’s inspiring journey and get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into coaching at the Special Olympics World Winter Games! Episode 765 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast765 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles📺Watch Now! Watch (and Subscribe) Full Episode on YouTubeEnjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games. Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet involved in the Special Olympics Movement Connect with Special Olympics USA Meet The Turin 2025 Team Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus premium content: Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Shop Our Merch: Shop Our Disabled Voices Matter Collection 📱Follow us on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📧Email: Send us a message here 📧Newsletter: Subscribe to our Mailing List HERE🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: Learn more and Book Daniel to speak HERE 💡Partner: ComEd EnergyForce ✈️Partner: United Airlines Bridge BRG📻Podcast Hosting: Podbean 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now! Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    43 分
  • Turin2025: Mallory Malvin, SO USA - Snowshoeing

    Turin2025: Mallory Malvin, SO USA - Snowshoeing
    2025/04/21
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down Mallory Melvin, a Special Olympics USA athlete who competed in Snowshoeing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, in 2025. Mallory has been involved with Special Olympics Movement for 14 years and is a true leader in the movement, representing not just her sport but the incredible spirit of the Special Olympics community. Throughout this episode, we dive deep into Mallory’s journey, starting with how her disability has shaped who she is today—both in terms of the challenges and joys she's faced. She also shares the story of how she first got involved in the Special Olympics movement and what inspired her to take that first step. Mallory has participated in a variety of sports through Special Olympics—from athletics to snowshoeing—and she opens up about what each sport means to her and why she loves competing in them. We also explore how Mallory became an Athlete Leader and the impact that has had on her as both an athlete and a person. Mallory takes us behind the scenes of her training for the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025, describing her experience preparing for one of the most prestigious events in Special Olympics history. She shares insights into the selection process, training routines, and the mental preparation it takes to compete on a global stage. But it’s not just about the competition. Mallory highlights the camaraderie and community spirit that are at the heart of the Special Olympics experience, both in terms of athletes supporting one another and the global network of Special Olympics around the world. In the episode, Mallory also reflects on her life outside of sports—her volunteer work at Our House of Hope Animal Rescue & Pet Food Bank, her love for traveling (with 13 countries already under her belt), and her dedication to giving back to the community. Wrapping up, Mallory shares her excitement for the future—whether it's in her athletic career, leadership roles, or personal life—and offers inspiring advice for athletes just starting their own Special Olympics journeys or anyone facing their own challenges. Listen in to hear Mallory's amazing journey and what inclusion truly means to her. Key Takeaways: Mallory’s challenges and joys as an athlete with a disabilityHow she became involved in Special Olympics and her journey to the World Winter GamesThe importance of Athlete Leadership and community in the Special Olympics movementHer experience training and competing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025 in TurinInsights into giving back through volunteer work and personal hobbiesAdvice for new athletes and thoughts on inclusion Tune in to be inspired by Mallory’s incredible story of courage, perseverance, and leadership! Episode 764 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast764 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles📺Watch Now! Watch (and Subscribe) Full Episodes on YouTubeEnjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games. Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet involved in the Special Olympics Movement Connect with Special Olympics USA Meet The Turin 2025 Team Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus premium content: Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Shop Our Merch: Shop Our Disabled Voices Matter Collection 📱Follow us on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📧Email: Send us a message here 📧Newsletter: Subscribe to our Mailing List HERE🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: Learn more and Book Daniel to speak HERE 💡Partner: ComEd EnergyForce ✈️Partner: United Airlines Bridge BRG📻Podcast Hosting: Podbean 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now! Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    35 分
  • Turin2025: Tyler Lagasse, SO USA - Alpine Skiing

    Turin2025: Tyler Lagasse, SO USA - Alpine Skiing
    2025/04/14
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Tyler Lagasse, a Special Olympics USA athlete who’s making waves in the world of Alpine skiing. Tyler has been a part of the Special Olympics Movement for over 21 years and is set to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025. We talk about his incredible journey, from his early days as a Special Olympics athlete to his experiences as a multi-sport competitor, including athletics, basketball, and golf. Tyler shares what it’s been like to represent Special Olympics USA on the world stage, the impact of his family and community's support, and the preparation that goes into competing in Alpine skiing. He also opens up about his inspiration, drawing motivation from Olympic champion Bode Miller, and his goal to earn a medal in his honor. In this episode, Tyler discusses the highs and lows of his athletic career, including being inducted into the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame, receiving an honorary ESPY Award, and co-authoring a book with his mother that raises awareness about autism. He offers valuable advice for young athletes and anyone facing challenges in their own journey. Tune in to hear about Tyler's experiences in Turin, how Special Olympics has shaped his confidence and self-advocacy as an athlete with autism, and the powerful message of inclusion he hopes to share with the world. Key Topics: Tyler’s 21+ years with Special OlympicsThe sport that has impacted him the mostMemorable moments from competing in the Special Olympics USA GamesThe role of family and community supportCompeting at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in TurinPreparing physically and mentally for Alpine skiingTyler’s inspiration from Bode Miller and his goal for a medalA day in the life of Tyler’s Alpine skiing training regimenOvercoming setbacks and challenges in trainingThe influence of recognitions like the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame and honorary ESPY AwardStaying motivated through tough momentsAdvice for young athletes and the next chapter in Tyler’s journeyThe importance of raising awareness about autism and promoting inclusion We explore Tyler’s personal take on inclusion and how the Special Olympics movement has shaped him not only as an athlete but as a person, inspiring others to embrace their differences and find strength in their uniqueness. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Tyler whose dedication, perseverance, and advocacy continue to make a lasting impact. Episode 763 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast763 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles📺Watch Now! Watch (and Subscribe) Full Episode on YouTubeEnjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet involved in the Special Olympics Movement Connect with Special Olympics USA Meet The Turin 2025 Team Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus premium content: Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Shop Our Merch: Shop Our Disabled Voices Matter Collection 📱Follow us on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📧Email: Send us a message here 📧Newsletter: Subscribe to our Mailing List HERE🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: Learn more and Book Daniel to speak HERE 💡Partner: ComEd EnergyForce ✈️Partner: United Airlines Bridge BRG📻Podcast Hosting: Podbean 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now! Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    46 分
  • Turin2025: Grace Payne, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger

    Turin2025: Grace Payne, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger
    2025/04/07
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Grace Payne, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger for Special Olympics, as she reflects on the recently concluded Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025. Grace shares her incredible journey with Special Olympics and her role as a Global Messenger, offering insight into the impact of these Games on the athletes and the global community. Episode Highlights: Grace shares her journey as a Sargent Shriver Global Messenger, explaining what this prestigious role means to her both personally and professionally. Learn how Grace first became involved with Special Olympics and the milestones of her journey that led her to her current role. Grace talks about the responsibilities of a Global Messenger and the unique opportunities she has had to represent Special Olympics on a global stage. Grace reflects on what made the World Winter Games in Turin special for her, including memorable moments from the Games. What is Grace most excited about regarding the athletes' experiences and the global community that came together during the Games? Plus, a memorable moment from her role as a Global Messenger. Grace recounts some of the most memorable events she’s attended or hosted as part of her role, and what these experiences mean to her. With Turin hosting the World Winter Games for the first time, Grace shares her thoughts on the city and what she experienced there. Grace offers a powerful message to athletes heading into the World Winter Games in Turin, emphasizing the spirit of inclusion and talent of athletes with intellectual disabilities. Grace discusses aspects of the athletes’ journey that are often overlooked or misunderstood by those outside the Special Olympics community. What does it mean for Grace to witness athletes participating at such a high level, and how do their journeys continue to inspire her personally? Grace talks about how Special Olympics helps to shift societal perceptions about individuals with intellectual disabilities and promote inclusion. As a Global Messenger, Grace encourages others to get involved in Special Olympics, whether as volunteers, supporters, or athletes. Grace shares how we can continue making society more inclusive for people with intellectual disabilities, both inside and outside of the Games. Grace reflects on the Games’ motto, "The Future Is Here," and shares her thoughts on its significance. Grace discusses her hopes for the future of Special Olympics, both on a global level and within her own community. As the Special Olympics World Winter Games come to a close, Grace leaves us with a powerful message about the power of sport, unity, and inclusion. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about the power of Special Olympics, the importance of inclusion, and the incredible impact of the World Winter Games in Turin 2025! Episode 762 ShowNotes & Links 🎧 Listen on Special Chronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts 📺Watch on YouTube: Watch Full Episode Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games:Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet Involved in the Special Olympics Movement Follow Grace Payne on Socials: Instagram | Facebook Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus content? Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS to Access our premium content 🛒Want our Merch? Visit SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP to shop our Disabled Voices Matter collection! 📱Follow Special Chronicles on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📱Follow Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski on Socials: @podmandan📧Email: Send us a message here 💡Partner: ComEd ✈️Partner: United Airlines📻Podcast Hosting:Podbean 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now! Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    45 分
  • Turin2025: Lou Lauria, SOI Chief of Sport and Competition

    Turin2025: Lou Lauria, SOI Chief of Sport and Competition
    2025/03/31
    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Lou Lauria, the Chief of Sport and Competition for Special Olympics, to discuss his journey, the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025, and what it takes to organize such a global event. Lou shares insights on the Games, the athletes, and the incredible impact of the Special Olympics movement. Lou reflects on how we connected through the Special Olympics World Games 2019 in Abu Dhabi and takes us through his personal journey into the world of Special Olympics. He also gives us an overview of his responsibilities as Chief of Sport and Competition for the upcoming World Winter Games in Turin 2025, sharing what it takes to prepare for such a monumental event. We dive deep into the World Winter Games, discussing what makes the 2025 Winter Games in Turin so special and what we can expect from the competition. Lou talks about how athletes are preparing for the winter sports, the challenges they face, and how Special Olympics ensures athletes are fully prepared. He also highlights how inclusion of athletes with intellectual disabilities is front and center, even in traditionally able-bodied sports. Plus, we hear why the beautiful city of Turin, with its rich history in hosting major sporting events, will provide an unforgettable backdrop for the Games. Lou discusses his role in ensuring the fairness and safety of the competition, while also celebrating the spirit of the Games. He reflects on how the Special Olympics emphasizes personal growth and inclusion, not just competition, and how these values are integrated into the sports events. We also learn about new or exciting sports being introduced in 2025 and how Special Olympics selects the events. Lou touches on the support systems in place for athletes, ensuring their success beyond the competition, and how the Games impact local communities and promote inclusion on a global scale. Looking to the future, Lou shares his hopes for the future of Special Olympics, particularly in expanding access to winter sports for athletes with intellectual disabilities worldwide. He also reflects on the most memorable moments from the athletes, volunteers, and fans during the Games, and why people should support and engage with the Special Olympics movement. Tune in to hear Lou’s inspiring perspective and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring the world’s largest sporting event for athletes with intellectual disabilities to life! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this conversation! Episode 761 ShowNotes & Links 🎧 Listen on Special Chronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts 📺Watch on YouTube: Watch Full Episodes Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games. Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTubeGet Involved in the Special Olympics Movement Connect with Lou Laura on Linkedin Support This Podcast: Click Here to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles➕Want bonus content? Join Now at SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS to Access our premium content 🛒Want our Merch? Visit SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP to shop our Disabled Voices Matter collection! 📱Follow Special Chronicles on Socials: @SpecialChronicles📱Follow Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski on Socials: @podmandan📧Email: Send us a message here 💡Partner: ComEd ✈️Partner: United Airlines📻Podcast Hosting:Podbean 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard 🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge Now!Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a well-known columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes over the last 15 years. In recognition of these many accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 9 分