Podcasts about special chronicles

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: Bill Dwyer, CEO of Helping Hand, returns to sit down with host Daniel Smrokowski as we discuss the latest in inclusive housing, independent living, and meaningful employment for people with disabilities. Topics and Chapter Markers: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:15:00 Inclusive Housing & Independent Living 00:38:00 High School Transition & Unified at Work 01:07:00 Leadership & Vision 01:09:00 Practical advice for Inclusive Housing options 01:11:00 How employers can implement inclusive hiring practices 01:12:30 Ways listeners can get involved or support Helping Hand 01:15:00 Final Thoughts 01:18:00 Defining Inclusion as Beyond Inclusion

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with David Evangelista, the incoming CEO of Special Olympics International. From volunteering at the 1995 World Games to leading programs across 58 countries, David shares his lifelong journey within the Special Olympics movement, his global vision, and what inclusion truly means. In this episode, we discuss: David's lifelong dedication to Special Olympics His global leadership experience and advocacy work Continuing the legacy of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Mary Davis, and Tim Shriver His vision for inclusion, Unified Sports, and opportunities worldwide

This week on the Special Chronicles Podcast, we're honored to share a special re-release of our 2017 conversation with Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics, Inc., as she prepares to retire. In this heartfelt interview, Mary reflects on her inspiring journey, her leadership across the global movement, and the lasting legacy of inclusion she leaves behind. Host Daniel Smrokowski also takes a moment to express his gratitude for Mary's years of dedication and the impact she has made on athletes, families, and communities around the world. Join us as we celebrate Mary Davis and her incredible contributions upon her retirement as CEO of Special Olympics. This episode originally aired on July 26, 2017.

This week on the Special Chronicles Podcast, we honor Judy Heumann—the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement”—with a stirring lecture originally aired on Disability Beat Radio at WEFT 90.1 FM. Her words ignited a global movement for inclusion, dignity, and justice. Tune in to hear the voice that sparked a revolution and continues to inspire generations.

In this special episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, we kick off the Special Chronicles 2026 Giving Campaign and share why this year's fundraising goal — $41,600 — is our biggest yet. Producing inclusive, high-quality media costs about $800 per episode, and your support helps us keep our studio running, livestream shows, and share stories that celebrate the voices of people with special needs. Join us as we reflect on our 17-year journey, highlight the impact your donations make, and explain how your gift helps grow the Inclusion Revolution — one story, one voice, one episode at a time.

In honor of our 17th year anniversary on the Special Chronicles Podcast, we're sharing a special live radio conversation host Daniel Smrokowski had on Disability Beat Radio at WEFT Community Radio in Champaign, Illinois. Tune in for a heartfelt celebration of inclusion, advocacy, and the voices that have shaped our journey. From humble beginnings to a global platform, this episode reflects on the power of storytelling to change lives. Episode 808 ShowNotes & Links Listen to Disability Beat Radio on WEFT 90.1 FM in Champaign, IL Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

In this powerful episode of The Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Matthew F. Gorski, Athlete Leader with Special Olympics Illinois, to talk about his incredible journey running the 2025 Chicago Marathon. Matthew takes us behind the scenes of what it's like to train for 26.2 miles — from early training runs and mental preparation to race day excitement and the unforgettable moment he crossed the finish line. He also shares how representing Special Olympics at the marathon embodies leadership, inclusion, and perseverance.

In this week's episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with author Nancy Goodfellow to discuss her inspiring new novel, Special — a heartfelt story that celebrates friendship, inclusion, and the beauty of being exactly who you are. Special follows Madison and Meg, two junior high students navigating grief, growing up, and disability awareness. Meg, who has Down syndrome, brings joy and resilience to every page, while Madison's journey through loss and healing reminds readers of the power of supportive friendships. During their conversation, Daniel and Nancy explore why stories like Special matter — especially for young readers — and how the novel helps foster empathy, understanding, and the celebration of differences. If you care about inclusion, disability representation, or simply love a good story, this episode is for you. Together, let's keep amplifying voices that make the world more inclusive — one story, one episode at a time.

 Join host Daniel Smrokowski LIVE From United Airlines headquarters as he sits down with David Kinzelman — Chief Customer Officer & Senior VP of Airport Operations at United — for an inspiring conversation during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). They explore how United's SOSA program and its broader accessibility initiatives are creating real change for both employees and customers. Hear how leadership commitment, inclusive culture, and operational design come together to make travel and work more accessible for everyone. What you'll hear: • The impact and meaning of NDEAM within a major global airline • How the SOSA initiative drives inclusive employment and delivers measurable results • Concrete examples of accessibility built into airport & customer operations • Strategies you can apply in your own workplace or everyday life

https://www.youtube.com/live/h9MDrXgExe4?si=ccwPPP4etqUWpUy8  Join host Daniel Smrokowski LIVE From United Airlines headquarters as he sits down with David Kinzelman — Chief Customer Officer & Senior VP of Airport Operations at United — for an inspiring conversation during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). They explore how United's SOSA program and its broader accessibility initiatives are creating real … Continue reading Live from United Airlines HQ: On The Job with David Kinzelman, Chief Customer Officer | Unified at Work Series S6:Pt10 | Ep.805 The post Live from United Airlines HQ: On The Job with David Kinzelman, Chief Customer Officer | Unified at Work Series S6:Pt10 | Ep.805 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this all-new episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series S6:Pt9: Host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes back Emmy Award-winning journalist, consultant, podcaster, and Special Olympics Illinois Board Member Rob Johnson. Rob joins us to talk about his brand-new book, Overcommunicate: A Guide for Business Executives and Aspiring Leaders. Most leaders confuse saying something with being understood — this book offers the tools to align people, clarify strategy, and drive action with clarity and intention. We dive into: Why clarity—not noise—is a leader's most powerful tool The “Communication Flywheel” that helps leaders build alignment and trust How to avoid the most common communication mistakes Lessons Rob has learned from journalism, consulting, and serving on the board of Special Olympics Illinois Why overcommunicating matters for inclusive leadership and the Unified at Work initiative Rob also shares practical takeaways for executives, entrepreneurs, and aspiring leaders — including Special Olympics athletes stepping into leadership roles. This conversation is packed with wisdom, real-world stories, and tools you can use to lead with clarity. Episode 804 ShowNotes & Links

In this compelling episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series S6:Pt8—originally aired on Disability Beat Radio on WEFT 90.1 FM in Champaign, IL—host Vicki Niswander sits down with Nicholas Wyman, President of IWSI America, to unpack their groundbreaking 2023 report that's reshaping how we think about workforce inclusion.

In this compelling episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series S6:Pt8—originally aired on Disability Beat Radio on WEFT 90.1 FM in Champaign, IL—host Vicki Niswander sits down with Nicholas Wyman, President of IWSI America, to unpack their groundbreaking 2023 report that's reshaping how we think about workforce inclusion.

In this empowering episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Caleb J. Prewitt – the Guinness World Record Holder as the Most Prolific Down Syndrome Triathlete/Runner – and his mom Karen McConeghy Prewitt. At just 18 years old, Caleb has already completed 46 triathlons, 123 races, and 5 half-marathons, while serving as a Planet Fitness USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador. Together with his mom and Caleb's Crew, Caleb is helping to prove that Abilities > Disabilities. We discuss Caleb's athletic journey, his Guinness World Record, his role as an ambassador, and the family story behind his success. Plus, hear how he's Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day 2024 and taking part in a USA Triathlon Foundation campaign at the 2025 Chicago Bank of America Marathon. Episode 802 ShowNotes & Links Follow @calebs_crew on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn to keep up with his journey. Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski celebrates International Podcast Day with the 800th Episode of this podcast!  We share an ALL NEW speech he recently gave to the regional marketing staff of Special Olympics about his lessons as a Podcasting Legend within the Special Olympics Movement. Then, Daniel transitions into an encore conversation with fellow Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Leader Jose Moreno, where they discuss the art of podcasting about podcasting,  sharing some of our best tips for you to get into podcasting yourself!

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski celebrates International Podcast Day with the 800th Episode of this podcast! We share an ALL NEW speech he recently gave to the regional marketing staff of Special Olympics about his lessons as a Podcasting Legend within the Special Olympics Movement. Then, Daniel transitions into an encore conversation with fellow Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Leader Jose Moreno, where they discuss the art of podcasting about podcasting, sharing some of our best tips for you to get into podcasting yourself!

In this thirteenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Carrie & Kalib McCoy, a husband and wife self-advocates. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this fourteenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Lawanda Grant.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this twelfth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Timotheus (TJ) Gordon from the Institute on Disability & Human Development at UIC.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this eleventh episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Marijane Sheridan from Sertoma Star.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this tenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Jeffrey Matlock from Sertoma Star. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this ninth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Iris Pickens. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this all-new Unified at Work Series episode, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Nefertiti “Neffie” S. Fisher, HR Operations Assistant Manager at United Airlines and ORD Bridge Disability BRG Director, to talk about The Arc's Wings for All® event hosted at Chicago O'Hare on August 16, 2025. Neffie shares highlights from the day, powerful behind-the-scenes stories, and the heartwarming moment when a young participant overcame his fears to board the plane. You'll also hear how United's Bridge BRG and The Arc are creating more inclusive air travel experiences for families with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This inspiring conversation will leave you encouraged to take simple steps toward building inclusion—in the airport, workplace, and beyond. Episode 794 ShowNotes & Links Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

In this all-new Unified at Work Series episode, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Nefertiti “Neffie” S. Fisher, HR Operations Assistant Manager at United Airlines and ORD Bridge Disability BRG Director, to talk about The Arc's Wings for All® event hosted at Chicago O'Hare on August 16, 2025. Neffie shares highlights from the day, powerful behind-the-scenes stories, and the heartwarming moment when a young participant overcame his fears to board the plane. You'll also hear how United's Bridge BRG and The Arc are creating more inclusive air travel experiences for families with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This inspiring conversation will leave you encouraged to take simple steps toward building inclusion—in the airport, workplace, and beyond.

In this eighth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Carl Nave from Macon Resources. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this seventh episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Erika Kissel from Just a Dollop. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this sixth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Bridget Brown from Engage IL Leadership Team.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this fifth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Nicholas T from Envision Unlimited. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this heartwarming episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by United Airlines Captain Tait Wasser to reflect on the powerful impact of The Arc's Wings for All event held on August 16, 2025, at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Captain Tait shares what it was like to participate in this inclusive airport rehearsal program designed for individuals with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. From behind-the-scenes moments to one young passenger's transformative journey from fear to flying — this episode showcases how partnerships like United's Bridge Disability Business Resource Group are helping make air travel more inclusive. Together, we dive into what inclusion means in the skies, the training and empathy required to support all travelers, and how we can all play a role in making the world more accessible.

In this heartwarming episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by United Airlines Captain Tait Wasser to reflect on the powerful impact of The Arc's Wings for All event held on August 16, 2025, at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Captain Tait shares what it was like to participate in this inclusive airport rehearsal program designed for individuals with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. From behind-the-scenes moments to one young passenger's transformative journey from fear to flying — this episode showcases how partnerships like United's Bridge Disability Business Resource Group are helping make air travel more inclusive. Together, we dive into what inclusion means in the skies, the training and empathy required to support all travelers, and how we can all play a role in making the world more accessible.

In this fourth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Deanna E from Envision Unlimited. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this third episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with April McHenry and Leanne Mull who have been at the first SUSO 20 years ago. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this second episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talk to Eva Kott and her parents Michael and Alena about her self-advocacy story, first-time speaking at this conference, and her empowering story.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this first episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Speaker, Comedian and Television Writer Zach Anner about his Keynote Presentation “Joyful Grit: Turning Setbacks Into Setups” and about his role as a television writer on the hit ABC sitcom “Speechless. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

✈️ In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of The Arc of Illinois, for an inspiring conversation about the Wings for All program. Recorded following the August 16, 2025 Wings for All event at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in partneship with United Airlines' Bridge Disability Business Resource Group, this episode dives into: What Wings for All is and why it matters for travelers with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). Behind-the-scenes stories from the event at O'Hare. Heartwarming family moments, including a child who overcame fears to board an aircraft for the first time. The importance of inclusion in airports, workplaces, schools, and communities.

✈️ In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of The Arc of Illinois, for an inspiring conversation about the Wings for All program. Recorded following the August 16, 2025 Wings for All event at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in partnership with United Airlines' Bridge Disability Business Resource Group, this episode dives into: What Wings for All is and why it matters for travelers with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). Behind-the-scenes stories from the event at O'Hare. Heartwarming family moments, including a child who overcame fears to board an aircraft for the first time. The importance of inclusion in airports, workplaces, schools, and communities.

https://www.youtube.com/live/t0wI68fiSA4?si=6r0JrYUQlg9AYpp0 ✈️ In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of The Arc of Illinois, for an inspiring conversation about the Wings for All program. Recorded following the August 16, 2025 Wings for All event at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in partneship … Continue reading Wings for All: Flying with Heart – A Conversation with The Arc’s Samantha Alloway | Unified at Work Series S6:Pt4 The post Wings for All: Flying with Heart – A Conversation with The Arc's Samantha Alloway | Unified at Work Series S6:Pt4 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

Hello Folks! In this jam-packed episode 102 of The Georgia and Daniel Podcast, we wrap up summer with laughs, travels, and a whole lot of updates! Georgia hits the road to Door County, Wisconsin and tees off at the OK Golf Tournament—plus she wins Gold at the SOILL State Championships in Golf Skills!

On this encore Special Chronicles Podcast episode: host Daniel Smrokowski shares his keynote from the 2020 Speak Up and Speak Out Summit, presented by The Arc of Illinois and funded by the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. Hear the origin story of Special Chronicles, nearly two decades of disability media storytelling, tips for creating social change, live audience Q&A, and musician Peter Leidy's song “Speak Up and Speak Out.” This episode originally aired on November 17, 2020. Episode 783 ShowNotes & Links Learn more about The Arc of Illinois' Speak Up and Speak Out Summit, a 3 day conference for people with disabilities Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

In this powerful episode, podcast host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with author and disability advocate Crystal Williams, who shares her journey of growing up with Kabuki Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. Crystal discusses her new memoir, Finding My True Happiness: Life, Love and Everything In Between, and opens up about childhood surgeries, navigating hearing loss, and learning to live boldly as her authentic self.

In this episode of The Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Michelle Mark, Director of Athlete Leadership and Family Initiatives, and Emily Sullivan, Assistant Director of Athlete Leadership and Family Initiatives at Special Olympics Illinois. Together, they explore the exciting updates to Athlete Leadership University (ALU) — a new, structured approach to helping athletes grow as leaders. Topics include: What it means to be an athlete leader today Why the new ALU structure was created How the program supports leadership development at every level The future vision for Athlete Leadership at Special Olympics Illinois The role of athlete voice and feedback in shaping programs Whether you're already involved in Athlete Leadership or just getting started, this episode offers valuable insight into how athletes are leading the inclusion movement — and how you can be part of it.

In this powerful episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Rob Snow, comedian, speaker, and creator of The Improvaneers, the world's first all-Down syndrome improv troupe, and with Nick Doyle, Assistant Director/National Sales Executive, from The Improvaneer Method.  Rob and Nick share how a casual conversation turned into a life-changing movement, the impact of the Improvaneer Method, and how improv is helping individuals with developmental disabilities gain confidence, communication skills, and new opportunities. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming film documenting this powerful journey. Episode 779 ShowNotes & Links Click HERE to purchase tickets to The Improvaneers Midwest Tour Theatre On The Lake August 7th TheImprovaneerMethod.com  Burn The Script DocuSeries Watch the Pre-Show | Exclusive Access Only On SpecialChronicles+ PLUS Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

To conclude Disability Pride Month, we're rebroadcasting one of our most powerful conversations. Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with his college friend Maria DiSabato in this encore episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, recorded on location at Roosevelt University in Chicago. Maria shares her lived experience with disability—exploring questions like: • What does disability mean to you? • What do you wish peers, professors, and classmates understood? • Is disability a part of how you describe yourself? • Do you feel there's a stigma, and how can we break it? • And why disability is truly another face of diversity. This thoughtful and empowering dialogue offers fresh insights—and is the perfect conclusion to Disability Pride Month. Episode 778 ShowNotes & Links Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

 In this special audio documentary episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, Host Daniel Smrokowski takes you behind the scenes of the 2025 Special Olympics Illinois State Summer Games in Normal, IL! From the powerful Tribute to Champions Reception, to the walk with his SEASPAR team, inspiring Opening Ceremony speeches, and his personal reflections after an intense Bocce competition—this episode brings you along for the full journey. Daniel placed 4th in an incredibly close match that went into overtime—coming down to just 1/8 of an inch! Hear the sounds, the emotions, and the inspiration of the Summer Games through Daniel's firsthand storytelling and audio coverage. What You'll Hear: 1:30 - Opening Segment 3:25 - Audio from the Tribute to Champions Reception 12:00 - Walking to meet Daniel's team at the dorms 23:25 - Meet SEASPAR's new Special Olympics Athletic Director Jared 28:00 - Team SEASPAR Walks into Opening Ceremony Highlights from the Opening Ceremony speeches: 35:00 - Illinois State Representatives 40:00 - Athlete Leader Board Member Colleen Costello 45:00 - SO Illinois Board Chair 50:00 - SO USA Athlete Mallory Malvin 54:00 - SO Illinois CEO 1:00:00 - Athlete Oath 1:01:20 - Law Enforcement Torch Run 1:07:00 - Intro to Drone Show 1:09:00 - Reflections on representing SEASPAR in Bocce 1:15:00 -

In this fun-filled episode, Georgia and Daniel kick off their summer travels with a wild start to their Louisville, Colorado adventure! Tune in as they share:

In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Matthew Brough, an Athlete Leader from Special Olympics Great Britain, based in York, England. Matthew's journey began on the tennis court and led him all the way to the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, where he proudly won gold and bronze medals. Since then, he's completed his Athlete Leadership training, become an advocate in his local community, and shared his story through public speaking and media appearances. Now working at The Grand Hotel in York and serving as a Level One tennis coach, Matthew continues to inspire others by breaking barriers and promoting inclusion wherever he goes.

We're going LIVE for our 100th episode of the Georgia and Daniel Podcast! 

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kelvin Limbrick from ComEd to talk about the innovative and eco-friendly goat grazing program that's helping manage vegetation under power lines in northern Illinois. With nearly three dozen goats on the job this summer, ComEd is leading the way in sustainability by using goats to clear brush and keep the power grid resilient in challenging terrains. Kelvin shares the story behind this unique initiative, explaining how goats are the perfect solution for rocky, steep areas where traditional methods would be difficult or unsafe. We dive into sharing the Goats story with the public — adding some fun and lighthearted moments to the program's impact. From the environmental benefits to community engagement and the goats' "office" quirks, you'll hear how these hardworking goats are not just a solution for vegetation management, but also a symbol of ComEd's commitment to innovation and sustainability. Join us for this fun and informative episode about one of the most unconventional and effective approaches to powering the grid! Key Topics Covered: The role of goats in keeping the power grid reliable and reducing outages Behind-the-scenes of sharing the goat story with the public The benefits of using goats in difficult-to-reach areas How ComEd's sustainable practices are shaping the future of energy management Don't miss this fun conversation about the G.O.A.T. of vegetation management — literally! Episode 774 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast774

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kelvin Limbrick, ComEd Vegetation Management Sr. Program Manager to discuss important environmental topics, including their vegetation management practices, the role of brush control, and their sustainability efforts in celebration of Earth Day.   Key Topics: Vegetation Management: Kelvin shares insights into why vegetation management is critical for maintaining ComEd's infrastructure and the reliability of the power grid. He explains how ComEd prioritizes areas for vegetation management and the safety protocols in place to protect both the environment and electrical systems. Brush and Environmental Impact: We dive into how ComEd manages brush and vegetation with minimal environmental impact, exploring initiatives and partnerships that help ensure responsible brush management. Kelvin also talks about the steps ComEd takes to protect wildlife and habitats during vegetation clearing efforts. Earth Day and Sustainability: As Earth Day approaches, Kelvin highlights ComEd's sustainability initiatives and community engagement efforts. He discusses how ComEd balances the practical needs of energy infrastructure with their commitment to environmental responsibility and shares special events and educational initiatives for Earth Day. Tune in to learn more about ComEd's efforts to promote sustainability, protect the environment, and ensure a reliable energy system for the communities they serve. Don't miss this enlightening conversation about how power companies can lead the way in sustainability and environmental stewardship! Episode 773 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast773