Special Olympics World Games Podcast Series

• Turin2025: Jenny Fortner, SOI Board Member and Volunteer | Ep.772

  On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Jenny Fortner, a dedicated Special Olympics International Board Member to talk about how she volunteered with her son Joey Fortner, a Yale University student and his friends from Athletes in Action. Together, they share their personal journeys and deep-rooted commitment to Special Olympics as they reflect on their roles at the 2025 World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. From Jenny's early days as a freshman volunteer at the University of Chicago to Joey's first experience as a student-athlete at the World Winter Games, we dive into their powerful experiences and lessons learned from over three decades of volunteering. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Jenny’s first experience volunteering for Special Olympics as a freshman at the University of Chicago and what inspired her to get involved. How her journey with Special Olympics has evolved over the past 30 years, and what has kept her passionate about advocating for athletes. Insights into how Special Olympics has grown and impacted the lives of athletes and their families. As a current Board Member of Special Olympics, Jenny shares the initiatives and changes she's most proud of contributing to. Advice for those just starting their volunteer journey with Special Olympics, especially if they’re unsure where to begin. What has been the most rewarding part of working with Special Olympics athletes, particularly those she’s met at the World Games. How volunteering with Special Olympics aligns with her personal values and has influenced her perspective on inclusion and community. Jenny’s hopes for the legacy of her involvement with Special Olympics, both personally and for the organization as a whole. How Joey first got involved with Special Olympics and what inspired him and his fellow Athletes in Action members from Yale to volunteer at the World Winter Games in Turin. The impact of volunteering with Special Olympics on him personally and as a student-athlete, and the lessons he’s learned about sport, inclusion, and community. Joey reflects on his first experience at the Special Olympics World Winter Games and how the event stands out from others. A specific moment during volunteering that made a lasting impression on him and his team. The role of student-athletes in Special Olympics and how they contribute to the experience for both themselves and the athletes they support. Joey shares what it’s like to follow in his mom’s footsteps in the Special Olympics community and his advice for other young people considering volunteering. What Joey is most excited about for the upcoming 2025 World Winter Games in Turin and how he envisions his role at the event. What volunteering at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin means to them as a mother-son duo and how this shared experience is special for their family. Their unique perspectives—Jenny as a Board Member and Joey as a student-athlete volunteer—and how they collaborate and support each other’s work within Special Olympics. The most impactful lessons they’ve learned from working with Special Olympics athletes and how they carry those lessons into their everyday lives. Their hopes for the future of Special Olympics as they prepare for the upcoming World Winter Games in Turin and beyond. Key Takeaways: The life-changing power of volunteering and the sense of community it creates within Special Olympics. How Special Olympics provides athletes and volunteers alike with opportunities for growth, inclusion, and connection. Insights into the unique bond that forms between volunteers and athletes, and the impact that connection has on both groups. A powerful look at the long-term effects of giving back to the Special Olympics community and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for everyone to thrive. Episode 772 ShowNotes & Links: Watch Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/glMubcscLqI Get involved in the Special Olympics Movement: https://www.specialolympics.org/get-involved?locale=en Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games! Follow Now on https://specialchronicles.com/Turin2025 Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIHbm7j-AXsVNDkcqICXeEgjeugXpfOuS&si=xfoWV8jdaQf1PcFO ShowNotes & Links: 🎧Click to Follow and Listen on SpecialChronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Click to Subscribe and Watch on YouTube: https://SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Support This Podcast: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Join SpecialChronicles+PLUS! Go to: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS for our Premium Pre Show with behind the scenes podcast chats, exclusive bonus content, and to help support the show. 🛒Visit our Merch Shop: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Send us an Email: https://SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Get Social with us: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting by Podbean: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio by StreamYard: https://SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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: https://specialchronicles.com/BittyandBeausCoffee . . . . . . About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/DanielSmrokowski The post Turin2025: Jenny Fortner, SOI Board Member and Volunteer | Ep.772 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

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• Turin2025: Global Coalition for Inclusion with Shawn Ferguson | Ep.770

  On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Shawn Ferguson, the Chief of Global Government Relations at Special Olympics , to explore the mission and impact of the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion . The Coalition is uniting global leaders, governments, and advocates to drive systemic change for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Together, they are working to create a more inclusive world through sport, education, and social integration. Shawn takes us behind the scenes of this important global initiative, discussing its origin, growth, and the key milestones in the Coalition's journey. We learn about the significance of the Coalition's gathering during the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, and how it has elevated the mission of inclusion on the world stage. Through Unified Schools® and Unified Sports®, the Coalition is transforming classrooms and communities, making inclusive education and social cohesion a reality. Shawn shares powerful success stories, highlights the importance of financial investment in sustainable change, and explains how public-private partnerships are creating long-term solutions for individuals with IDD. As the Coalition expands, Shawn outlines the challenges they face, how they measure success, and the future of inclusive education and systemic change. He also encourages individuals and organizations to get involved and make a difference. If you're passionate about inclusion and want to learn how we can all contribute to a world where individuals with intellectual disabilities are celebrated and respected, this episode is for you! Topics Covered in This Episode: What is the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion? The significance of the Coalition's gathering during the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. Key milestones and global impact of the Coalition. The role of governments, multilateral organizations, civil society, and the private sector in driving inclusion. Success stories and transformative examples from the Coalition's work. The importance of Unified Schools® and Unified Sports® in fostering inclusion. How financial investments are helping to make inclusive education a tangible reality. The role of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable change. Overcoming challenges in advancing systemic change for people with IDD. How the Coalition measures success and evaluates its impact. The future of the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion and how you can get involved. Listen now to hear Shawn’s insights on this transformative global initiative and how you can be part of creating lasting change for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Episode 770 ShowNotes & Links: Watch Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0FENwwMKeLc Learn more about the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion: https://www.specialolympics.org/special-olympics-global-coalition-for-inclusion Connect with Shawn Ferguson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-ferguson-b6ba924 Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games! Follow Now on https://specialchronicles.com/Turin2025 Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIHbm7j-AXsVNDkcqICXeEgjeugXpfOuS&si=xfoWV8jdaQf1PcFO Get involved in the Special Olympics Movement: https://www.specialolympics.org/get-involved?locale=en 🎧Listen: SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Watch: SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Donate: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Bonus: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Merch: SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Email: SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Socials: SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Newsletter: SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting: SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio: SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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: https://specialchronicles.com/BittyandBeausCoffee . . . . . . About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/DanielSmrokowski The post Turin2025: Global Coalition for Inclusion with Shawn Ferguson | Ep.770 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

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• Turin2025: Global Youth Leadership Summit | Ep.769

  On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with sits down with three remarkable leaders who are paving the way for a more inclusive world: Sky Riley, Senior Manager of Global Youth and Education at Special Olympics, Louis Kleemeyer and Tim Pietrowski from the Global Youth Leadership Council.  Together, they provide insight into the 2025 Special Olympics Global Youth Leadership Summit in Turin, Italy, which brought together young leaders from over 20 countries to advance inclusivity and challenge harmful stereotypes. We dive into the Summit’s key theme, "The Future Begins with Us," and discuss how youth, both with and without intellectual disabilities, are stepping up to become the next generation of leaders. With an emphasis on inclusivity, Louis and Tim share how their own journeys have led them to advocate for people with disabilities, while Sky reflects on the growth and impact of the Summit over the years. In this episode, we explore: How the 2025 Summit connects with the World Winter Games in Turin and what it means for the future of inclusive leadership. The vital role of diversity in shaping leadership and the importance of ensuring every voice is heard. The intersection of technology, education, and inclusion through initiatives like Friend2Learn and Unique United. Personal stories of resilience and leadership, from overcoming learning disabilities to creating inclusive platforms for people with disabilities. The lasting impact of the Summit and how young people are empowering themselves to create a more inclusive world. Whether you're passionate about disability inclusion, leadership, or just looking for ways to make a difference in your community, this episode will inspire you to take action and help shape the future of inclusion. Key Questions Discussed: What does the theme "The Future Begins with Us" mean for the youth leaders attending the 2025 Special Olympics Global Youth Leadership Summit? How can education and technology contribute to fostering inclusivity in both the classroom and the workplace? What advice do Louis and Tim have for young people who feel their disabilities might hold them back from leadership roles? How do Sky and the Special Olympics team ensure that the Summit empowers participants to take real-world action towards inclusion? Don’t miss this powerful conversation on how inclusive leadership is shaping the future! Tune in to learn how YOU can help create a more inclusive world. Episode 769 ShowNotes & Links: Watch Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_BEiK1LWk3k Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games! Follow Now on https://specialchronicles.com/Turin2025 Learn more about the 2025 Special Olympics Global Youth Leadership Summit: https://www.specialolympics.org/what-we-do/youth-and-schools/youth-leaders/global-youth-leadership-summit#2023-2025-gylc Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIHbm7j-AXsVNDkcqICXeEgjeugXpfOuS&si=xfoWV8jdaQf1PcFO Get involved in the Special Olympics Movement: https://www.specialolympics.org/get-involved?locale=en 🎧Listen: SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Watch: SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Donate: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Bonus: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Merch: SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Email: SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Socials: SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Newsletter: SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting: SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio: SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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: https://specialchronicles.com/BittyandBeausCoffee . . . . . . About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/DanielSmrokowski The post Turin2025: Global Youth Leadership Summit | Ep.769 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

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• Turin2025: Kellie Matthews, SO USA – Alpine Skiing | Ep.768

  On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kellie Matthew, a Special Olympics USA athlete, who competed in Alpine skiing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. Kellie, who has been a part of Special Olympics since she was just 9 years old, shares her incredible journey from Coral Springs, Florida, to the international stage. We dive into her experiences, challenges, and the lessons she’s learned through the Special Olympics program. Kellie discusses what it means to represent Special Olympics USA on the world stage, and we hear about her passion for alpine skiing, her training process, and her memorable moments—especially her proudest accomplishment of winning two gold medals. She also opens up about the personal obstacles she’s overcome with the help of Special Olympics, the value of trying new things, and how she manages to balance her hobbies, work, and athletic commitments. Tune in as Kellie shares her inspiration for joining Special Olympics, the life lessons she’s gained, and her advice for others looking to follow in her footsteps. She also talks about the importance of giving back to her community and how her job at Park Summit Retirement Facility has helped her grow both personally and athletically. From singing to volunteering, Kellie’s journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of community. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of Special Olympics’ brightest stars as she competing in Turin for Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025! Episode Highlights: Kellie’s journey with Special Olympics since the age of 9 Representing Team USA at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 Training for Alpine skiing and overcoming challenges Winning two gold medals at the World Winter Games Life lessons learned through Special Olympics Balancing hobbies, work, and athletic training Volunteering and giving back to the community Goals for the future and advice for young athletes Special Chronicles celebrates the voices of people with disabilities, and this episode is no exception. Join us for a conversation full of heart, motivation, and inspiration. Episode 768 ShowNotes & Links: Watch Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iHOzNSdGDXI Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games! Follow Now on https://specialchronicles.com/Turin2025 Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIHbm7j-AXsVNDkcqICXeEgjeugXpfOuS&si=xfoWV8jdaQf1PcFO Get involved in the Special Olympics Movement: https://www.specialolympics.org/get-involved?locale=en Connect with Special Olympics USA: https://www.specialolympicsusa.org Meet The Turin 2025 Team: https://www.specialolympicsusa.org/meet-the-team/turin-2025?locale=en 🎧Listen: SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Watch: SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Donate: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Bonus: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Merch: SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Email: SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Socials: SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Newsletter: SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting: SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio: SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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: https://specialchronicles.com/BittyandBeausCoffee . . . . . . About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/DanielSmrokowski The post Turin2025: Kellie Matthews, SO USA – Alpine Skiing | Ep.768 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

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• Turin2025: Nick Mills, SO USA – Alpine Skiing | Ep.767

  On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Nick Mills, a dedicated Special Olympics athlete from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, who has been part of the Special Olympics family for 20 years. Nick has competed in a variety of sports, including Alpine skiing, basketball, athletics, bowling, soccer, and volleyball. He’s also actively involved in the Special Olympics South Dakota Athlete Leadership Council and serves as a Health Messenger. In this special recap of the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, Nick shares his journey and experience as part of Special Olympics USA . Hear about his deep passion for Alpine skiing, his preparation for the World Winter Games, and the valuable lessons he’s learned about health, fitness, and leadership along the way. We also dive into Nick’s unique perspective on balancing a successful career as a software support specialist and administrative assistant with his athletic goals. Nick’s travels to over 20 states and several countries have also enriched his Special Olympics journey, and he shares how these experiences have shaped his perspective on inclusion and the power of sport. Join us as we discuss the personal and professional milestones that have led to his success, the incredible memories from competing at the World Winter Games, and the meaningful impact of his work as an advocate for health and inclusion. Episode Highlights: Nick’s 20-year journey in Special Olympics and how he got started His experience competing in a range of sports, with a focus on Alpine skiing Preparing for the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 and balancing career and athletic goals The importance of physical health and mental well-being in Nick’s training and daily life What inclusion means to Nick and how Special Olympics has impacted his life Memorable moments from Turin 2025, both in competition and overall experience Tune in for an inspiring conversation with an athlete who has dedicated his life to both sports and advocating for others, while showing us all the power of inclusion. Listen now on Special Chronicles! Episode 767 ShowNotes & Links: Watch Full Episode on YouTue: https://youtu.be/iHRAg9zqUHA Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games! Follow Now on https://specialchronicles.com/Turin2025 Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIHbm7j-AXsVNDkcqICXeEgjeugXpfOuS&si=xfoWV8jdaQf1PcFO Get involved in the Special Olympics Movement: https://www.specialolympics.org/get-involved?locale=en Connect with Special Olympics USA: https://www.specialolympicsusa.org Meet The Turin 2025 Team: https://www.specialolympicsusa.org/meet-the-team/turin-2025?locale=en 🎧Listen: SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Watch: SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Donate: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Bonus: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒Merch: SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Email: SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Socials: SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Newsletter: SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting: SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio: SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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: https://specialchronicles.com/BittyandBeausCoffee . . . . . . About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/DanielSmrokowski The post Turin2025: Nick Mills, SO USA – Alpine Skiing | Ep.767 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

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