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On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, athletes with intellectual disabilities prepare for the 2026 Special Olympics Illinois State Bocce Tournament, Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with his Special Olympics bocce coach to reflect on the season, discuss coaching philosophy, and share how athletes are developing leadership skills both on and off the court. In this conversation, you'll hear about the team's journey to State, why athletes have been serving as referees during practice to deepen their understanding of the sport, and the coaching adjustments made just days before competition to improve performance and confidence. Plus, stay tuned for a special Bocce Training Overview, originally produced by Daniel as his activation project for the Athlete Leadership University Event Leader Class. Created to help volunteers learn the rules and fundamentals of bocce, the training offers a helpful introduction to the sport for athletes, volunteers, coaches, and fans alike. Watch this full episode on YouTube to see us give commentary on a few of our team's best bocce frames! Episode 872 ShowNotes & Links: Learn more about the State Bocce Tournament - Special Olympics Illinois | Nov7, 2026 | Springfield Watch the Bocce Video-Written/Produced/Hosted by Daniel Smrokowski Learn more about SEASPAR - Special Recreation Association Connect with Special Chronicles: 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this Season 7 Finale episode of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, We're coming to you live from the United Airlines Global Headquarters for a special conversation with David Kinzelman, Chief Customer Officer at United Airlines. Learn how leadership, customer experience, and inclusion come together to create opportunities and build a stronger workplace culture for all. From the frontline to the executive level, this inspiring conversation highlights why inclusion matters and how it helps organizations soar. 🎧 Don't miss this special Season 7 Finale! Click to watch this full episode on YouTube, recorded from United Airlines HQ Willis Tower in Chicago! This episode was originally released in 27 October 2025. Episode 871 ShowNotes & Links:   Learn more about United's Bridge Disability Business Resource Group and accessibility ✈Meet the SOSAs - Learn more+Conversations Series with United's Service Ambassadors   Connect with Special Chronicles:   🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts [powerpress] ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles   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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this Season 7, Episode 9 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, join us on this special Best Of episode as we celebrate five years of impact, growth, and inclusion.  Hear empowering stories and memorable moments from United Airlines' Houston Service Ambassadors as they celebrate their 5 year work anniversary, and discover how inclusive employment continues to transform lives, strengthen teams, and create opportunities for all. Episode 870 ShowNotes & Links: Listen to full episodes of the Houston SOSA's here Get involved with Special Olympics Texas or Find Special Olympics Near You Connect with Special Chronicles: ✈Meet the SOSAs - Learn more+Conversations Series with United's Service Ambassadors 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this Season 7, Episode 8 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, join us on this special Best Of episode as we celebrate five years of impact, growth, and inclusion.  Hear empowering stories and memorable moments from United Airlines' Denver Service Ambassadors as they celebrate their 5 year work anniversary, and discover how inclusive employment continues to transform lives, strengthen teams, and create opportunities for all. Episode 869 ShowNotes & Links: Listen to full episodes of the Denver SOSA's here Get involved with Special Olympics Colorado or Find Special Olympics Near You Connect with Special Chronicles: ✈Meet the SOSAs - Learn more+Conversations Series with United's Service Ambassadors 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts [powerpress] ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this Season 7, Episode 7 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, join us as we go on the job with Ryan Musciotto, a United Airlines Service Ambassador at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and a Special Olympics New Jersey Athlete Leader.  Ryan shares his journey in Special Olympics, his path to inclusive employment at United Airlines, lessons learned through Athlete Leadership, highlights from the 2026 SOSA Summit, and what it's like helping customers every day at one of the nation's busiest airports. Plus, Ryan reflects on the power of inclusion and making a difference through meaningful work. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 3:00 Journey in Special Olympics 7:00 Becoming a United Airlines Service Ambassador Watch this full episode on YouTube Episode 868 ShowNotes & Links: Get involved with Special Olympics New Jersey or Find Special Olympics Near You Connect with Special Chronicles: ✈Meet the SOSAs - Learn more+Conversations Series with United's Service Ambassadors 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this Season 7, Episode 6 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, join us as we go on the job with Daniel Block, a United Airlines Service Ambassador at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and the first Special Olympics New York Athlete Leader to be a Service Ambassador at at United!  Daniel shares his journey in Special Olympics, his path to inclusive employment at United Airlines, lessons learned through Athlete Leadership, highlights from the 2026 SOSA Summit, and what it's like helping customers every day at one of the nation's busiest airports. Plus, Daniel reflects on the power of inclusion and making a difference through meaningful work. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 4:15 Journey in Special Olympics 9:00 Becoming a United Airlines Service Ambassador Watch this full episode on YouTube Episode 867 ShowNotes & Links: Listen to Daniel Block's previous appearance on this podcast to hear more of his story as a Soccer Official Get involved with Special Olympics New York or Find Special Olympics Near You Connect with Special Chronicles: ✈Meet the SOSAs - Learn more+Conversations Series with United's Service Ambassadors 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this Season 7, Episode 5 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, join us as we go on the job with Robert "Bobby" Fredericks Jr., a United Airlines Service Ambassador at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Special Olympics New Jersey Athlete Leader.  Bobby shares his journey in Special Olympics, his path to inclusive employment at United Airlines, lessons learned through Athlete Leadership, highlights from the 2026 SOSA Summit, and what it's like helping customers every day at one of the nation's busiest airports. Plus, Bobby reflects on the power of inclusion and making a difference through meaningful work. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 4:45 Journey in Special Olympics  15:00 Becoming a United Airlines Service Ambassador Watch this full episode on YouTube here Episode 866 ShowNotes & Links: Subscribe to Bobby’s YouTube Channel  Episode Twelve: Agents of Inclusion on Special Olympics YouTube channel to hear Bobby talking about the Lincoln Tunnel Challenge Get involved with Special Olympics New Jersey or Find Special Olympics Near You Connect with Special Chronicles: ✈Meet the SOSAs - Learn more+Conversations Series with United's Service Ambassadors 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS today for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's  Unified at Work Series Season 7, Episode 4, Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Jimi Allen, founder of TalkLab and agency owner of Bureau Gravity, for a conversation rooted in connection, creativity, and inclusion. Jimi shares the story of how he became a longtime listener and follower of Special Chronicles, how he and Daniel first connected, and why disability storytelling has shaped his approach to leadership and communication. Together, they explore the importance of discerning the Disability Storytelling Audience — understanding who listens, who learns, and how authentic narratives can drive meaningful employment and workplace inclusion. This episode is a thoughtful look at the intersection of storytelling, advocacy, and the future of inclusive employment. Episode 865 ShowNotes & Links: Connect with Jimi Allen on LinkedIn Learn more about Bureau Gravity Connect with Special Chronicles: 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS today for bonus content and support for our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Senior Advisor to the Founder Click here to meet our team

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's  Unified at Work Series Season 7, Episode 3, Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Joanne Starkman, co‑founder of Innersense Organic Beauty, and her daughter Morgan Starkman Starkman, the company’s beloved Director of Joy. This heart‑centered conversation explores how Innersense is raising clean hair care to a higher standard through ingredient integrity, responsible packaging, and planet‑first sustainability — all while giving back to organizations that create meaningful change. As a Certified B Corp, Innersense donated over $400,000 to nonprofits in 2023 and continues to push for legislation that improves the beauty industry. We also celebrate Williams Syndrome Awareness Month, a cause close to the Starkman family. Morgan, who has Williams syndrome, shares her inspiring journey, her role supporting salons around the world, and her creative collaboration with Outshine Labels — where 100% of profits from her designs support the Williams Syndrome Association. Listeners will hear about Morgan’s joyful leadership, her mantra “Be happy. Be kind. Be you.”, her love for family and nature, and the inclusive culture she helps shape at Innersense. This episode is a celebration of inclusion, meaningful work, and the belief that caring for your hair — and the world around you — begins with trusting your inner sense. Watch this full episode on YouTube Episode 864 ShowNotes & Links: •  Innersense Organic Beauty • People and Planet  • 2025 Impact Report  • Philanthropic Organizations We Give Back To • Williams Syndrome Association • Morgan’s store on Outshine Labels • Meet Morgan, Director of Joy  • Trust Your Innersense ™  with Joanne Starkman Podcast 72 - BONUS Exclusive: Restore Your Hair, Restore Your Spirit Meditation Connect with Special Chronicles: 🏢Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations on inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Unlock Bonus Content. Support Inclusive Storytelling. Make an Impact. Join Special Chronicles+ PLUS today for bonus content and support our mission. 👕 Shop our‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles 📰 Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles   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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Co-Host Georgia and Daniel Show Click here to meet our team

On this Season 7, Episode 2 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we feature a re‑released excerpt from our 2025 conversation with Bill Dwyer, CEO of Helping Hand, joining host Daniel Smrokowski to discuss the future of meaningful employment for people with intellectual disabilities. Together, they explore how High School Transition pathways, inclusive work initiatives, and inclusive hiring practices can transform workplaces and open doors to long‑term career success. Whether you’re an employer, educator, advocate, or ally, this episode offers actionable insights on building environments where everyone can contribute and belong. Click here to watch this full episode on YouTube Episode 863 ShowNotes & Links: Connect with Helping Hand at: helpinghand-il.org Tune in to past episodes with Bill Dwyer, CEO of Helping Hand Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations in inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support independent media with Special Chronicles+ PLUS and enjoy perks like bonus content. Your PLUS membership helps us continue producing inclusive stories elevating disability voices, and creating meaningful conversations weekly. Special Chronicles+ PLUS is more than monus content -- it's a way to support the mission and be part of the community that keeps these stories alive. Join Now starting at $10/month and learn more at: specialchronicles.com/PLUS 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Co-Host Georgia and Daniel Show Meet our team here

In this special crossover episode of Special Chronicles' Unified at Work Series and Mental Health Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes fellow United Airlines employees Melinda Riddle and Donna Paggi for a powerful conversation about grief, resilience, mental health advocacy, and hope. Melinda Riddle, Assistant Manager of Inflight, co-founder of UMatter, and volunteer with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), shares how the loss of her stepson Bradley inspired her mission to support others through mental health awareness and suicide prevention advocacy. Donna Paggi, a Customer Service Representative with United Airlines, reflects on the childhood trauma and suicide loss that shaped her life, the challenges of navigating grief and unanswered questions, and the healing that can come through sharing one's story. Together, these conversations explore how personal loss can lead to purpose, why mental health support matters, the impact of community and connection, and how each of us can help create a culture where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Topics Include: Mental health awareness and advocacy Suicide loss and grief AFSP Out of the Darkness Walks UMatter at United Airlines Childhood trauma and resilience Healing through storytelling Workplace mental health support Inclusion, connection, and community Listener Discretion Advised: This episode contains discussion of suicide, grief, trauma, and mental health challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:45 Melinda Riddle’s story of profound loss 38:49 Donna Paggi’s story of childhood trauma and suicide loss 59:25 Closing Episode 862 ShowNotes & Links Watch this full episode on YouTube (and subscribe while you there!) Learn about suicide, how you can help prevent it, and resources for those affected, from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Houston Out of the Darkness Walk Sept 26, 2026 Register and Donate: Chicagoland Out of the Darkness Walk Oct 3, 2026 Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations in inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the independent media with Special Chronicles+ PLUS and enjoy perks like bonus content. Your PLUS membership helps us continue producing inclusive stories elevating disability voices, and creating meaningful conversations weekly. Special Chronicles+ PLUS is more than monus content -- it's a way to support the mission and be part of the community that keeps these stories alive. Join Now starting at $10 and learn more at: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Video Podcast Host click here to meet more of our team

Join us for a special milestone episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: EnergyForce Series as we celebrate 15 years of the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program with three guests who represent the program's incredible journey from past to present. Host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Paula Conrad, Co-Founder of the EnergyForce Ambassador Program, Jessica Frantz, an original EnergyForce Ambassador, and Charlie Carpenter, a current EnergyForce Ambassador and musician from Misericordia. Together, they reflect on how the nation's first clean energy solutions education program led by people with disabilities has empowered individuals, educated communities, and created meaningful opportunities for employment, leadership, and inclusion. Learn how the program began, hear stories from the early years, discover how EnergyForce Ambassadors help customers save energy today, and celebrate the lasting impact of a program dedicated to Empowering Ability, Energizing Communities. Episode Highlights: The founding and growth of the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program Reflections from one of the program's original ambassadors What it's like to be an EnergyForce Ambassador today Energy-saving tips and customer education Charlie Carpenter's music career at Misericordia and passion for playing organ at church The importance of inclusion, employment, and community engagement for people with disabilities Chapters: 00:00 Introduction  07:00 Segment 1: Paula Conrad on Looking Back: How the Program Began and Grew 33:00 Segment 2: Jessica Frantz on Looking Back: An Original EnergyForce Ambassador’s Perspective  46:00 Segment 3: Charlie Carpenter on Today’s EnergyForce Ambassador Experience 57:00 Final Roundtable Questions Episode 861 ShowNotes & Links 📺Watch this full episode on YouTube 💡Access more of our ComEd EnergyForce podcast content Learn more about the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program Learn more about Misericordia mission and programs at Misericordia.com 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder  Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Co-Host Click here to meet our team

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 how disability‑led advocacy is shaping a more inclusive energy landscape. Whether you’re an EV owner, EV‑curious, or passionate about sustainability, this episode delivers practical knowledge and inspiring perspectives that illuminate the road ahead. EnergyForce Series S9:E3 | Ep.860 ShowNotes & Links 🔌Learn more about ComEd's Electric Vehicles resources 📺Watch this full episode on YouTube 💡Access all of our ComEd related content on our EnergyForce Series 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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 an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he 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 | 🎧 Discover Daniel’s Story – Listen here

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 calmer daily rhythms, and help children grow through their strengths, play, and community. Together, Daniel and Ben explore the importance of belonging, confidence, self-advocacy, and the power of embracing each child for who they are. Ben’s message is a powerful reminder that hope is not about changing who a child is, but about helping them thrive. At Special Chronicles, our mission is giving respect and voice to people with special needs through media, and this conversation beautifully reflects that mission. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:50 Opening and Background 14:20 About the book “Reason for Hope” 35:00 Strengths, Confidence & Growth 50:05 Belonging, Community & Connection 57:05 Family Life, Routines & Well-Being 01:07:25 Lived Experience & Hard-Won Wisdom 01:15:45 Advocacy, Inclusion & the Bigger Picture 01:26:00 About the Book’s Impact 01:31:25 Closing & Call to Action Episode 859 ShowNotes & Links 📺Watch This Full Episode on YouTube 📖 Order your copy of Reason for Hope: A Parent’s Playbook for Raising Happy and Resilient Kids by Ben Haack:  Buy the book on Amazon 🌐 Learn more about Reason for Hope and Ben Haack's work 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder  Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Co-Host--Georgia and Daniel Podcast Click here to meet our team

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 intellectual disability stories, athlete leadership, and inclusion. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:55 RSM sponsor 04:30 Waymo sponsor 08:18 WBEZ Chicago Public Radio 15:00 WBBM News Radio 18:49: WBBM Interviewed SOILL Athlete Leaders Daniel Smrokowski and Ryan Murray 21:56 Ducks Drop in the Chicago River 22:13 Closing with a special Choose To Include montage 👍 Like, Subscribe & Share Help us continue telling stories that celebrate inclusion, leadership, and the power of the Special Olympics movement. 📺Watch and Subscribe on YouTube Click here to Watch this Full Episode on YouTube Episode 858 ShowNotes & Links 🦆 Follow and listen to this and more Ducky Derby conversations — and to learn all about the event, head to SpecialChronicles.com/Duck 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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: Click here to meet our team