Special Chronicles Podcast

Special Chronicles Network · specialchronicles.com

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.

200 episodes

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Episodes 200

Electric Vehicles 101: Your Guide to a Cleaner, Smarter Future | EnergyForce Series S9:E3
6d ago · 44:34
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast’s EnergyForce Series (Season 9, Episode 3), host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kara Schwer, Manager of Marketing & Customer Education at ComEd, for an energizing conversation about the fast‑growing world of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and the future of clean transportation. Together, they break down how EVs work, why they matter, and the innovative ways ComEd is helping customers navigate EV adoption through education, accessibility, and customer‑focused programs. Kara shares insights on EV charging, cost savings, clean‑energy technology, and ho
Reason for Hope: Ben Haack on Raising Happy, Resilient Kids After an Autism Diagnosis
13d ago · 1:46:58
This week on the Special Chronicles Podcast, Host and Special Olympics Athlete Leader Daniel Smrokowski sits down with fellow Special Olympics Athlete Leader and author Ben Haack to discuss his new book, Reason for Hope: A Parent’s Playbook for Raising Happy and Resilient Kids. Written as a series of personal letters, Ben’s book offers comfort, clarity, and practical guidance for parents navigating life after an autism diagnosis. In this heartfelt conversation, Ben shares hard-won wisdom from his lived experience, including how families can build resilience without erasing difference, create c
Live From Chicago Ducky Derby 2026
20d ago · 24:08
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast recorded on location from the Chicago Ducky Derby 2026, we bring you the excitement of 90,000 ducks splashing into the Chicago River from the Columbus Drive Bridge — all benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. You’ll hear conversations with sponsors RSM and WayMo, as well as media partners WBBM NewsRadio and WBEZ Chicago Public Radio, who helped share this incredible day with the community. Make sure you like and subscribe to Special Chronicles, the longest‑running and #1 Special Olympics athlete‑led podcast series covering Special Olympics intel
Live From 2026USAGames Series Finale Ep.12: The Legacy
1mo ago · 1:42:03
On this Series Finale episode of “Road to 2026 Special Olympics USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” host Daniel Smrokowski, Founder of Special Chronicles and Special Olympics Athlete Leader, sits down with Jessica Poole, Director of Communications for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Together, they reflect on the meaning, impact, and legacy of the Games. 🌟 What You’ll Hear in This Episode The moment that defined the 2026 USA Games The lasting legacy for athletes, families, and communities How athlete leaders influenced the culture of the Games The future of Unified Sports nat
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.11: Inclusion in Action
1mo ago · 11:44
On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, and in celebration of the anniversary of Special Olympics and the Global Week of Inclusion, this episode is all about Inclusion in Action. In this fast-paced montage episode, we hear from 10 unique voices—including athletes, fans, and families—sharing their heartfelt answers to one powerful question: “What does inclusion mean to you?” Through inspiring, authentic, and moving reflections, discover how inclusion creates belonging, builds communities, and transforms lives both on and off the field o
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.10: ESPN Unified Sports Challenge
1mo ago · 21:50
On this episode Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we’re podcasting from the heart of the action at the ESPN Unified Sports Challenge, where Special Olympics athletes, celebrities, NBA stars, and Olympic champions come together to compete side-by-side in the ultimate celebration of inclusion. Host Daniel Smrokowski takes you onto the field for exclusive conversations with Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic and Olympian Annie Kunz (Track & Field). Plus, hear exclusive audio from the Honored Guest Reception. From the courts to the sidelines, we bring yo
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.9: Athlete Media
1mo ago · 31:05
On this episode Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we're taking you inside the stories behind the storytellers — the athletes who are shaping how the world sees the Games. First, we meet Wyatt, a proud Special Olympics athlete and Sargent Shriver Global Messenger, who stepped onto one of the biggest stages in sports: ESPN. Wyatt’s voice, confidence, and leadership showcase athlete-led media at its very best. Next, we head over to the SONA Athlete Media Team, where Michael Kelley from Special Olympics Massachusetts and Anne Murray from Special Olympi
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.8: Game Day Moments
1mo ago · 25:45
On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, it's all about the unforgettable Game Day Moments that bring the spirit of the USA Games to life! Join host Daniel Smrokowski from the heart of the action in Minnesota, where athletes, Unified partners, coaches, volunteers, and fans are celebrating inclusion, determination, and community—one game, one cheer, and one incredible moment at a time. First, we head to Cornhole, where Gold Medalists Unified Partners Sharon and Dereck from Special Olympics Rhode Island share how teamwork, trust, and frie
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.7: Inside the Fan Zone
1mo ago · 27:16
On this episode of Live From the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Daniel connects with Eric Wilfrid of Special Olympics Northern California, Debra Spears, a passionate fan, Sam Wagner, a Team Illinois Athletics athlete, Chris Ritchie, a volunteer from Huntington Bank, and Ty Bricker, co-founder of The Sunshine Stop. Each guest shares their unique perspective on what makes the Special Olympics movement so powerful and why inclusion comes alive in and beyond the field of play. 🎙️ Hear empowering conversations about sports, community, volunteerism, entreprene
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.6: Opening Ceremony
1mo ago · 13:30
On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we’re reporting on location from Huntington Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota during the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics USAGames. From our press box vantage point, we capture the joy, pride, and inclusion that define the Games. As our friend Timothy Shriver reminds us, this celebration reflects the very best of America’s spirit — and no one works harder than Special Olympics athletes. This is the Land of Inclusion. Special Olympics Country. Join our Mother‑Son Podcast Team for
Live From 2026USAGames Ep.5: Healthy Athletes [Audio Updated]
1mo ago · 31:35
On this episode of LIVE From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host and Health Messenger Daniel Smrokowski is podcasting location at the University of Minnesota for the official Healthy Athletes Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Tune in as Daniel co‑emcees this event alongside fellow Health Messenger Kayte Barton, as they welcome leaders from the University of Minnesota, United Healthcare, and Special Olympics International — including Dr. Brian Sick, Vice Provost for Academic Health Sciences at the University of Minnesota abd Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics; Sp
Road To 2026USAGames: The Family Perspective: Love, Support, and the Journey to the USA Games
2mo ago · 53:50
On this heartfelt episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Cathy O’Neill, whose daughter Katie will compete in Gymnastics for Team Illinois at the 2026 USA Games. Cathy shares what it means to be part of her athlete’s support system, how her family prepares for the excitement of Minnesota hosting the Games, and the emotional moments that have shaped their journey. She also discusses the importance of coach–family relationships, how she helps Katie manage nerves, and the growth she’s witnessed as her daughter trains
Road To 2026USAGames: Communications, Storytelling, and the Heart of Team Illinois
2mo ago · 32:43
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski spotlights the essential behind‑the‑scenes work that brings the Special Olympics movement to life. We sit down with Katelin Zandi, a dedicated Team Illinois staff member whose communications work helps shape how athletes, families, and fans experience the 2026 USA Games. Katelin shares how she uses storytelling, media coordination, and on‑site communications to elevate athlete voices and ensure Team Illinois is seen, heard, and celebrated. She reflects on the responsibility o
Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart
2mo ago · 26:51
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Matt Corso, Head Coach for Team Illinois Bowling, to explore the deep impact coaches have on athletes preparing for the 2026 USA Games. Matt opens up about his coaching philosophy, the intentional preparation that goes into a national competition, and how he recognizes when an athlete needs extra support — mentally, emotionally, or physically. He also reflects on the importance of family partnerships, the pressure of competing on a national stage, and the
Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte - Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island
2mo ago · 39:04
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we spotlight a groundbreaking moment in USA Games history: the debut of Unified Cornhole. Representing Special Olympics Rhode Island, Unified partner Sharon Laliberte shares what it means to compete in a sport built on teamwork, trust, and inclusion. Sharon reflects on the power of Unified Sports, the friendships formed through competition, and the pride of helping introduce a new event to the national stage. Her story shows how inclusion isn’t just a value — it’s a way of competing, connecting,
Road To 2026USAGames: Amanda Propheter — Swimming, Team Illinois
2mo ago · 19:57
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we return to the water with Amanda Propheter, a swimmer whose positivity and drive ripple through every practice. Amanda talks about the support system that lifts her up, the challenges she’s faced along the way, and the belief — in herself and from others — that fuels her journey to the USA Games. Her energy is contagious, her determination inspiring, and her story a reminder that confidence grows one stroke at a time. Dive deeper into Amanda’s motivation and her future goals. Episode 845 ShowNo
Unified Cheer--Team SO Mississippi Road to the 2026 USA Games
2mo ago · 53:39
In this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Erin, athlete Libby Cheney, and unified partner Marian Lynch from Special Olympics Mississippi Interscholastic Division of Competitive Cheer team. Together, we share how Unified Cheer builds confidence, teamwork, leadership, and lifelong friendships. You’ll hear how inclusion comes alive in their school community, what it takes to prepare for competition, and what representing Oklahoma on the Road to the 2026 USA Games means to them. Highlights in this ep
Unified Cheer--Team SO Oklahoma’s Road to the 2026 USA Games
2mo ago · 40:06
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Christina Gould from the Special Olympics Oklahoma Interscholastic Division of Competitive Cheer team. Together, we share how Unified Cheer builds confidence, teamwork, leadership, and lifelong friendships. You’ll hear how inclusion comes alive in their school community, what it takes to prepare for competition, and what representing Oklahoma on the Road to the 2026 USA Games means to them. Highlights in this episode: The origin of their Unified c
Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois
2mo ago · 10:12
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
Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois
2mo ago · 19:54
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we flip over to the gymnastics floor with Katie O’Neill, a Team Illinois athlete whose strength, grace, and discipline shine through every routine. Katie shares how she prepares mentally and physically for competition, the setbacks that have shaped her resilience, and the goals she’s aiming for as she heads to Minnesota. Her story is a testament to courage — the courage to try, to fall, to get back up, and to keep reaching for something bigger. Tune in to learn more about Katie’s training focus a
Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System
2mo ago · 2:02:42
On episode 4 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we dive into the heart of what powers every Special Olympics athlete: their support system. From coaches who guide athletes toward the national stage to families who cheer through every high and low, this episode highlights the people who make the journey possible. You’ll hear from Coach Matt Corso of Team Illinois Bowling and family member Cathy O’Neill, whose daughter Katie is competing in Gymnastics, as well as Team Illinois staff member Katelin Zandi who powerfully shares how inclusion doesn’t see disa
Road To 2026USAGames Ep.3: The Athletes' Journey
2mo ago · 1:38:26
On episode 3 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, “The Athletes Journey” we explore what it truly takes for Special Olympics athletes to prepare for the 2026 USA Games. Join Daniel Smrokowski, Podcast Host, Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Leader and former Sargent Shriver Global Messenger, as he talks with athletes about their stories of motivation, training routines, overcoming obstacles, support systems, the setbacks that shaped their resilience, and goals driving them toward 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. Tune in as athletes share their stories of moti
Road To 2026USA Games Ep.2: Athlete Advisory Council
2mo ago · 56:04
On this Episode 2 of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we take you behind the scenes with a two incredible athlete leaders — David Booth and Shaun Linsey, co-chairs of the Athlete Advisory Council for the 2026 USA Games. Hosted by Daniel Smrokowski — founder of Special Chronicles, Special Olympics Athlete Leader with Team Illinois, and former Sargent Shriver Global Messenger — this episode explores how athlete leaders shape the athlete experience, influence decision‑making, and help build a more inclusive movement on the road to the 2026 USA Games in
Road To 2026USA Games Ep.1: What Are The USA Games?
2mo ago · 1:03:30
Episode 1 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series kicks off our journey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games by answering the essential question: What are the USA Games? On this premiere episode, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined today with someone who has been involved with the USA Games since the beginning and helped get these USA National Games started— Greg Epperson, President and Managing Director of Special Olympics North America. We explore the scale, mission, and impact of the Games; the history of Special Olympics; and why the 2026 USA Games matter
TRAILER: Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series
3mo ago · 1:09
Ranked #1 for “USA Games” in search results, this landmark 10‑part narrative series from Special Chronicles follows the journey to, through, and beyond the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis–St. Paul. Through immersive storytelling, on‑site sound, and firsthand voices from athletes, families, coaches, organizers, and Unified partners, the series brings listeners into the heart of the movement. Three Acts • Act 1: The Road to the Games — Why the Games matter and how athletes prepare.• Act 2: Live from the Games — Daily on‑site audio, reactions, and behind‑the‑scenes access.• Act 3: Beyond the Games

Episodes

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More Society shows

Special Chronicles Podcast

Episodes 200

Electric Vehicles 101: Your Guide to a Cleaner, Smarter Future | EnergyForce Series S9:E3

Reason for Hope: Ben Haack on Raising Happy, Resilient Kids After an Autism Diagnosis

Live From Chicago Ducky Derby 2026

Live From 2026USAGames Series Finale Ep.12: The Legacy

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.11: Inclusion in Action

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.10: ESPN Unified Sports Challenge

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.9: Athlete Media

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.8: Game Day Moments

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.7: Inside the Fan Zone

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.6: Opening Ceremony

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.5: Healthy Athletes [Audio Updated]

Road To 2026USAGames: The Family Perspective: Love, Support, and the Journey to the USA Games

Road To 2026USAGames: Communications, Storytelling, and the Heart of Team Illinois

Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart

Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte - Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island

Road To 2026USAGames: Amanda Propheter — Swimming, Team Illinois

Unified Cheer--Team SO Mississippi Road to the 2026 USA Games

Unified Cheer--Team SO Oklahoma’s Road to the 2026 USA Games

Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois

Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois

Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System

Road To 2026USAGames Ep.3: The Athletes' Journey

Road To 2026USA Games Ep.2: Athlete Advisory Council

Road To 2026USA Games Ep.1: What Are The USA Games?

TRAILER: Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

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Episodes 200

Electric Vehicles 101: Your Guide to a Cleaner, Smarter Future | EnergyForce Series S9:E3

Reason for Hope: Ben Haack on Raising Happy, Resilient Kids After an Autism Diagnosis

Live From Chicago Ducky Derby 2026

Live From 2026USAGames Series Finale Ep.12: The Legacy

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.11: Inclusion in Action

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.10: ESPN Unified Sports Challenge

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.9: Athlete Media

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.8: Game Day Moments

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.7: Inside the Fan Zone

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.6: Opening Ceremony

Live From 2026USAGames Ep.5: Healthy Athletes [Audio Updated]

Road To 2026USAGames: The Family Perspective: Love, Support, and the Journey to the USA Games

Road To 2026USAGames: Communications, Storytelling, and the Heart of Team Illinois

Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart

Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte - Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island

Road To 2026USAGames: Amanda Propheter — Swimming, Team Illinois

Unified Cheer--Team SO Mississippi Road to the 2026 USA Games

Unified Cheer--Team SO Oklahoma’s Road to the 2026 USA Games

Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois

Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois

Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System

Road To 2026USAGames Ep.3: The Athletes' Journey

Road To 2026USA Games Ep.2: Athlete Advisory Council

Road To 2026USA Games Ep.1: What Are The USA Games?

TRAILER: Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series