Special Chronicles Podcast
 

Special Chronicles Podcast

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Disabled Voices Matter! As an award-winning intellectual disability advocate and host of the Special Chronicles Podcast, Daniel Smrokowski tells special needs stories from an insider’s perspective. “PodmanDan” is himself a person with special needs. As your weekly guide to finding joy and acceptance, Special Chronicles offers entertaining and informational disability conversations.

Episodes

Turin2025: Coach Jim Bluemond, SO USA - Snowshoeing

5 hours ago

5 hours ago

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 coach
  • The role of family in supporting athletes, including Jim’s own family’s involvement
  • Coaching strategies and overcoming challenges with athletes of varying abilities
  • What Jim is most excited about for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin
  • How Jim is preparing his snowshoeing team for the competition
  • The impact of Special Olympics events on athletes’ lives, both on and off the field
  • Personal insights on being a parent to a Special Olympics athlete and how that shapes his coaching approach
  • Jim’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

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

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Turin2025: Mallory Marvin, SO USA - Snowshoeing

Monday Apr 21, 2025

Monday Apr 21, 2025

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down Mallory Marvin, 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 disability
  • How she became involved in Special Olympics and her journey to the World Winter Games
  • The importance of Athlete Leadership and community in the Special Olympics movement
  • Her experience training and competing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025 in Turin
  • Insights into giving back through volunteer work and personal hobbies
  • Advice 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

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

 

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Turin2025: Tyler Lagasse, SO USA - Alpine Skiing

Monday Apr 14, 2025

Monday Apr 14, 2025

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 Olympics
  • The sport that has impacted him the most
  • Memorable moments from competing in the Special Olympics USA Games
  • The role of family and community support
  • Competing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin
  • Preparing physically and mentally for Alpine skiing
  • Tyler’s inspiration from Bode Miller and his goal for a medal
  • A day in the life of Tyler’s Alpine skiing training regimen
  • Overcoming setbacks and challenges in training
  • The influence of recognitions like the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame and honorary ESPY Award
  • Staying motivated through tough moments
  • Advice for young athletes and the next chapter in Tyler’s journey
  • The 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

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

 

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Turin2025: Grace Payne, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger

Monday Apr 07, 2025

Monday Apr 07, 2025

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

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

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Turin2025: Lou Lauria, SOI Chief of Sport and Competition

Monday Mar 31, 2025

Monday Mar 31, 2025

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

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

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Down Syndrome Out Loud

Friday Mar 21, 2025

Friday Mar 21, 2025

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Melissa Hart, the author of the highly anticipated book Down Syndrome Out Loud, which highlights over 20 inspiring stories of individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Melissa shares the powerful motivation behind compiling these stories and why now is the right time for this book to make an impact.

Melissa dives into the process of connecting with families, interviewing individuals, and curating personal stories that reflect the resilience and determination of those with Down syndrome. She opens up about how she decided which stories to include, the key themes that emerged during her research, and what she hopes readers will take away from these powerful narratives.

The conversation also explores how the voices of people with Down syndrome are authentically represented in the book, as well as the significance of determination as an essential theme in the stories featured. We talk about the common misconceptions about Down syndrome and how Down Syndrome Out Loud aims to debunk them, while also celebrating the diversity within the Down syndrome community.

Melissa shares her reflections on the impact of storytelling in changing attitudes toward disability and offers advice for families raising children with Down syndrome. We also explore the role of storytelling in advocating for better inclusion and policy change, and discuss the barriers still facing individuals with Down syndrome.

Lastly, Melissa gives us a glimpse into a story from the book that will leave a lasting impression on readers and offers insight into her vision for the future of disability representation. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on inclusion, determination, and the power of personal stories.

Be sure to check out Down Syndrome Out Loud for a truly unique perspective on the lives of individuals with Down syndrome!

Episode 760 ShowNotes & Links

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

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Spread The Word: Inclusive Action

Monday Mar 17, 2025

Monday Mar 17, 2025

On this rebroadcast episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Dr. Jackie Jodl, Chief Global Youth and Education Officer at Special Olympics.

This Week, our focus of Spread The Word is on Inclusive Action. Join us for an education conversation about Inclusive Mindsets, Unified Champion Schools  Create Universal Dignity and Empathy,  Leaders of Courageous Action, and how Special Olympics programs are leading the way in inclusive education! 

We think the world would be better if everyone were included. Around the world, exclusion and discrimination continue to divide people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are changing that with grassroots action for inclusion. That's Spread the Word. This year, you can engage and activate in multiple ways by choosing your focus: derogatory language, bullying or inclusive action. Visit SpreadTheWord.Global to access resources, sign the pledge, and grab your official gear. Together, let's create a more inclusive world!

This episode originally aired on April 10, 2023

Episode 759 ShowNotes & Links

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

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Spread The Word: Stand Up To Bullying

Monday Mar 10, 2025

Monday Mar 10, 2025

On this rebroadcast episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Laura Hertzog from Minnesota who wrote the article "The Short Bus Stops At My House."

This Week our focus of Spread The Word is to Stand Up To Bullying. Tune in to hear Laura talk about: Challenges her brother has; Why she wrote “The Short Bus Stops At My House”; Why Kids Make Fun of Short Bus?; Laura’s inspiration; Special Education and Standardized Tests- David and Daniel have similar stories; Beautiful part of her brother’s innocence; Her Brother’s Gifts/Abilities; Why Laura’s Mother Upholds Human Dignity and PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center; Laura’s Thoughts on ADA; “And the Short Bus Stopping At My House Was The Greatest Blessing”

We think the world would be better if everyone were included. Around the world, exclusion and discrimination continue to divide people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are changing that with grassroots action for inclusion. That's Spread the Word. This year, you can engage and activate in multiple ways by choosing your focus: derogatory language, bullying or inclusive action. Visit SpreadTheWord.Global to access resources, sign the pledge, and grab your official gear. Together, let's create a more inclusive world!

This episode originally aired on May 10, 2015

Episode 758 ShowNotes & Links

About the Podcast Host:

Daniel Smrokowski

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

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Spread The Word: Derogatory Language

Monday Mar 03, 2025

Monday Mar 03, 2025

On this rebroadcast episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Soeren Palumbo, co-founder of Spread The Word, to talk about the Spread the Word Day of Activation this week on March 5th.

This Week, our focus is on derogatory language. Tune in to a rebroadcast conversation with Soeren as he talks about: his backstory of growing up with his sister who has intellectual disabilities; why he co-founded this campaign; how he met Timbo Shriver; Importance of the r-word campaign; Backstory of article he and Tim co-authored entitled “Spread This: Be Good to People with Intellectual Disabilities”; Soeren’s thoughts on this year’s awareness day; Future of the r-word campaign; and much more!

We think the world would be better if everyone were included. Around the world, exclusion and discrimination continue to divide people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are changing that with grassroots action for inclusion. That's Spread the Word. This year, you can engage and activate in multiple ways by choosing your focus: derogatory language, bullying or inclusive action. Visit SpreadTheWord.Global to access resources, sign the pledge, and grab your official gear. Together, let's create a more inclusive world!

This episode originally aired on March 8, 2015

Episode 757 ShowNotes & Links:

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

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Conversation with Charlie Carpenter from Misericordia | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt2 | Ep.756

Monday Feb 24, 2025

Monday Feb 24, 2025

On this rebroadcast episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt2: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Charlie Carpenter, a ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador from Misericordia to talk about Charlie's Challenges and Accomplishments because of his disability; Being an EnergyForce Ambassador, a Real Passion of Music, and we chat about the Arts and Cultures Programs and enjoy swimming at Misericordia.

This episode originally aired on October 16, 2023

Episode 756 ShowNotes & Links:

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

 

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