Champions Among Us is the official podcast of Special Olympics Tennessee — a platform where athletes, Unified partners, coaches, volunteers, and community leaders share the stories behind the medals.
Hosted by Special Olympics athletes, this podcast is built on authentic voices and real experiences. Each episode explores the power of sport to build confidence, create inclusion, and strengthen communities across Tennessee.
Built Through Adversity: Chris Alexander on Football, Coaching, and Leadership
On this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, Jimmy Clark sits down with Chris Alexander to talk about the lessons football taught him through years of competition, injury, and perseverance. From playing the sport since childhood through college, Chris reflects on the emotional highs and lows of athletics, including battling injuries that changed the course of his football career. He opens up about the challenges of identity after sports and how those difficult moments ultimately helped shape him into the coach and mentor he is today.
The conversation also explores Chris’s coaching philosophy and the importance of understanding athletes beyond performance alone. He shares how different personalities require different approaches, why leadership and accountability matter, and how sports can help build stronger people both mentally and physically. Packed with energy, honesty, and motivation, this episode highlights the power of resilience, relationships, and pushing beyond perceived limits.
Recorded at Black River Entertainment/Sound Stage Studios.
12 Jun 2026
Finding Your Voice: Lauren Strange on Music, Nashville, and Taking Chances
On this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, Braden Jenkins sits down with Lauren Strange to talk about her journey from growing up in Memphis to building a career in Nashville’s music scene. Lauren shares stories about teaching herself guitar, being inspired by artists like Elton John, and performing alongside artists across multiple genres. From recording her first song at nine years old to eventually performing at the legendary Ryman Auditorium, Lauren reflects on the moments that shaped her path as an artist and songwriter.
The conversation also dives into the realities of moving to Nashville, building connections from scratch, and staying motivated through uncertainty. Lauren shares heartfelt advice for young musicians about embracing what makes them unique, working hard, and continuing to show up even when the road gets difficult. It’s an inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience, and finding community through music.
Recorded at Black River Entertainment/Sound Stage Studios.
5 Jun 2026
Courtside Conversations: Alaina Morris on Covering Vanderbilt Basketball
On this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, athlete-host Ollie Kujda-Neeley sits down with Alaina Morris to talk about her journey into sports media and what it’s like covering Vanderbilt University women’s basketball. From starting as a student at Lipscomb University to reporting for Vandy 24/7 Sports, Alaina shares how saying “yes” to opportunities helped open doors in broadcasting, writing, and courtside coverage of SEC athletics.
The conversation dives into game preparation, interviewing head coach Shea Ralph, recruiting standout players like Mikayla Blakes, and the excitement surrounding Vanderbilt women’s basketball. Alaina also offers advice for aspiring sports media personalities, encouraging young broadcasters to stay passionate, keep learning, and embrace every opportunity that comes their way. It’s an inspiring episode about preparation, persistence, and finding your voice in sports storytelling.
Recorded at Black River Entertainment/Sound Stage Studios.
29 May 2026
From Smashville to Special Olympics: Max Herz on Sports, Storytelling, and Community
On this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, Special Olympics Tennessee athlete Braden Jenkins sits down with Max Herz, radio broadcaster for the Nashville Predators, to talk about his journey into sports media, life in Nashville, and some of his favorite moments covering Vanderbilt and professional sports. From announcing video games as a kid to calling games across nearly every NHL arena, Max shares how passion, persistence, and saying “yes” to opportunities helped shape his career.
The conversation also highlights the power of sports to bring people together. Max reflects on volunteering with Special Olympics Tennessee at events like Summer Games and the Music City Corporate Challenge, discusses memorable moments covering Vanderbilt baseball and Predators hockey, and offers advice to young people interested in media and broadcasting. It’s a fun, insightful episode centered on storytelling, community, and finding joy in what you do.
Recorded at Black River Entertainment / Sound Stage Studios.
22 May 2026
Against the Odds: Nick Rinaldi’s Unlikely Rise at Vanderbilt
From not playing football until his senior year of high school to becoming a starting linebacker in the SEC, Nick Rinaldi has one of the most unconventional stories in college football. On this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, Nick joins Nashville athlete Jimmy Clark to talk about betting on himself, earning a scholarship, and helping reshape the culture of Vanderbilt University football from the inside out.
Nick also gives an inside look at the Commodores’ recent rise, the pressure and expectations surrounding SEC football, and why this Vanderbilt team believes it can keep proving doubters wrong. From playoff frustrations to the buzz around elite quarterback recruit Jared Curtis, this conversation dives into leadership, resilience, and what it takes to build something lasting in one of college football’s toughest conferences.
Recorded at Black River Entertainment/Sound Stage Studios.
28 Apr 2026
Champions Among Us: Music, Mindset, and Meaningful Moments with Alexandra King
Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, continues with a powerful conversation between Braden Jenkins and Nashville-based artist Alexandra King. Together, they explore the connection between music and sport: confidence, preparation, and performing under pressure. Alexandra reflects on her early start in music, overcoming nerves, and building a career in Nashville, while also sharing her connection to Special Olympics through family and community. This episode highlights how the champion mindset shows up everywhere, from the field to the stage.
Recorded at Black River Entertainment/Sound Stage Studios.
Learn more here (https://www.specialolympicstn.org/News/champions-among-us).
17 Apr 2026
From the Pitch to Purpose: Matthew Gang Interviews Taylor Washington
In this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, Special Olympics athlete and Vanderbilt University Next Steps graduate Matthew Gang sits down with former Nashville SC defender Taylor Washington for an authentic and inspiring conversation about life, soccer, and purpose beyond the game. Washington reflects on his journey from growing up in New York to an eight-year professional career in Nashville, sharing the challenges, unexpected turns, and defining moments that shaped his path—including overcoming setbacks, chasing new dreams, and ultimately finding fulfillment both on and off the field.
Together, Matthew and Taylor connect over their shared experiences as athletes, discussing everything from training and competition to the joy and community that sports create. Taylor offers heartfelt advice to Special Olympics athletes about confidence, dedication, and embracing your unique gifts, while Matthew brings energy and perspective from his own journey in sports and beyond. It’s a conversation rooted in passion, perseverance, and the belief that being a champion is about far more than wins and losses—it’s about how you show up, support others, and pursue what you love.
Learn more: https://www.specialolympicstn.org/podcast
3 Apr 2026
Ollie Kujda-Neeley & Jim Chandler on Sports, Growth, and Showing Up
In this episode of Champions Among Us, presented by Amazon, Special Olympics Tennessee athlete Ollie Kujda-Neeley sits down with radio host Jim Chandler of Totally Hits 93.3 for a conversation centered on sports, storytelling, and the power of practice. Jim shares how his journey into broadcasting began at a young age and evolved through years of repetition, curiosity, and a passion for connecting with people. Together, they explore the similarities between athletics and communication—highlighting how confidence, teamwork, and dedication fuel success in both arenas. From favorite teams like the Nashville Predators and Vanderbilt basketball to the excitement of competing and improving every day, this episode captures the joy of learning, growing, and showing up for your teammates—on the field and behind the mic.
19 Mar 2026
Champions in Health: Jimmy Clark Talks Fitness, Friendship, and Inclusion with Chris Morant
In this episode of Champions Among Us, host Jimmy Clark sits down with Chris Morant of Wellpoint Tennessee to explore the intersection of health, fitness, and inclusion within the Special Olympics Tennessee community. From personal fitness journeys and the discipline of CrossFit to the broader impact of corporate partnerships, Clark and Morant discuss expanding access to health resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The conversation dives into the importance of programs like Train 4 Life™ and Leadership Academy, while also tackling the bigger question of how to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and empowering for all. It’s an engaging and insightful discussion centered on wellness, opportunity, and the power of partnership to create meaningful change.
20 Feb 2026
Super Bowl Champion and Titans Punter Johnny Hekker Joins Braden Jenkins
In the inaugural episode of Champions Among Us, Special Olympics Tennessee athlete Braden Jenkins sits down with Johnny Hekker of the Tennessee Titans — a passionate advocate for the Special Olympics community. From unforgettable fake punts to the highs and lows of winning and losing in the NFL, the two share an engaging conversation about football, resilience, and the power of community. Recorded at Black River Entertainment in Nashville.
Watch more episodes soon at https://www.specialolympicstn.org/podcast (https://www.specialolympicstn.org/podcast)
Contact Champions Among Us
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Champions Among Us?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
