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Award‑winning advocate Daniel Smrokowski shares disability stories from an insider’s perspective. As a person with special needs himself, “PodmanDan” brings heart, humor, and lived experience to every conversation.
Special Chronicles is your weekly guide to joy, acceptance, and inclusive storytelling.
Award‑winning advocate Daniel Smrokowski shares disability stories from an insider’s perspective. As a person with special needs himself, “PodmanDan” brings heart, humor, and lived experience to every conversation.
Special Chronicles is your weekly guide to joy, acceptance, and inclusive storytelling.
Episodes

Jun 20, 2026
Jun 20, 2026
10 min
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we dive into the pool with Team Illinois swimmer Val Densler, whose determination is as strong as her stroke. In this conversation, Val opens up about her training routine, the challenges she’s overcome, and the motivation that keeps her pushing toward Minnesota. Her story is a powerful reminder that every lap, every practice, and every moment of effort brings her one step closer to the USA Games.
Val’s journey shows what it means to stay committed, stay focused, and stay inspired on the road to competition.
Episode 842 ShowNotes & Links
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: 2026USAGames.org
🎧Follow the Podcast Series: Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series for all episodes and subscribe to the full series
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts
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❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership
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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 Our Team
Jun 20, 2026
10 min

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