Discover the heartwarming stories behind the people who bring Special Olympics Washington to life with the "Finding Your Why: Stories of Acceptance" podcast. Join us as we spotlight athletes, coaches, volunteers, and law enforcement, uncovering the personal "why" that fuels their passion for this extraordinary community. From the excitement of competition and the joy of giving back to the meaningful connections they’ve built, each episode showcases inspiring tales of life-changing moments and acts of kindness. Tune in to celebrate the individuals who make the SOWA more than just sports.
From Patrol To Purpose: The Torchbearer’s Story of Officer Brandon Johnson
In this episode of Finding Your Why, Officer Brandon Johnson of the East Wenatchee Police Department shares his journey through 20 years of law enforcement and his passionate involvement with Special Olympics Washington and the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR).
Brandon talks about his career path, memorable moments like meeting Loretta Claiborne and representing Washington at the 2018 USA Games, and the powerful connection between law enforcement and Special Olympics. The episode also highlights the upcoming June torch run and the broader impact of Special Olympics’ health initiatives.
26 Mar 2025
Building Bridges: Tyler Fryberg’s Journey of Inclusion & Leadership
In this episode, hosts Donovan and Tim welcome Tyler Fryberg, a dedicated Building Bridges Coordinator for Special Olympics Washington. Tyler shares his inspiring journey, from competing in track and field since 2013 to his impactful work with Native American communities.
Tyler discusses his deep connection with law enforcement, volunteering at the Tulalip Police Department and participating in events like the Torch Run and Polar Plunge. A highlight of the conversation is his new role as head coach for a Special Olympics team in Tulalip, where he fosters a supportive and encouraging environment for athletes.
The episode wraps up with Tyler’s insights on how people can get involved with Special Olympics, whether as athletes, volunteers, or supporters, reinforcing the power of inclusion and community.
Learn more at specialolympicswashington.org (https://specialolympicswashington.org/).
To donate click here (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/washington?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP).
Questions or feedback? Email us at findyourwaypodcast@gmail.com.
10 Mar 2025
Flame of Hope: Jacob Babcock’s Journey of Sports, Mentorship, and Family
This week's episode features Jacob Babcock, a Special Olympics athlete from Rochester, New York. Jacob shares his journey in Special Olympics, where he actively participates in six to seven different sports. He also discusses his involvement with the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) and his mentorship with retired Rochester police officer John Pre.
The interview takes place in Italy during the Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg for Special Olympics. Jacob describes his experience traveling with over 100 LETR members and athletes as they carry the Flame of Hope through the Piedmont region, culminating in the Opening Ceremonies in Turin. He reflects on the significance of the event, his interactions with fellow athletes and law enforcement officers, and a particularly emotional reunion with his mother during one of the torch runs. Throughout the conversation, Jacob highlights the profound role that family has played in his journey.
Find Jacob's Final Leg speech on Youtube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhtNcVQQNCI&t=795s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhtNcVQQNCI&t=795s)
Learn more at specialolympicswashington.org (https://specialolympicswashington.org/).
To donate click here (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/washington?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP).
Questions or feedback? Email us at findyourwaypodcast@gmail.com.
19 Feb 2025
Beyond The Badge: Officer Gilbert's Journey with Special Olympics
In this episode, Officer Gilbert takes us inside his 13+ year journey with Special Olympics Washington and his role as the State Director for the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Washington. He opens up about his personal connection to the cause, sharing how his own experience with learning disabilities fuels his passion for advocacy. From signature events like Hooping for Heroes—raising over $10,000 last year—to the powerful moments of the Parade of Athletes and the Flame of Hope ceremonies, Gilbert highlights the impact of law enforcement’s support. Plus, he reflects on his unforgettable experience running 25 miles over five days in Germany as part of the global torch run. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about community, inclusion, and the power of the Torch Run movement!
Learn more at specialolympicswashington.org (https://specialolympicswashington.org/).
To donate click here (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/washington?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP).
Questions or feedback? Email us at findyourwaypodcast@gmail.com.
19 Feb 2025
Level Up: Nicholas Rasmussen’s Journey from Gamer to Gold Medalist
Podcast Summary:
In this episode of Finding Your Why: Stories of Acceptance, we sit down with Nicholas Rasmussen to explore his journey with Special Olympics Washington's e-sports program. Introduced to Special Olympics by his cousin Tyler Bjork, Nicholas competed in the 2018 USA Games as part of Team Shake and Bake, ultimately winning a gold medal and an Xbox prize. He opens up about how this experience came at a pivotal moment in his life, just months into sobriety. Tim and Nicholas also reminisce about the unforgettable moments at the USA Games, from visiting Turn 10 Studios to the emotional opening ceremony. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the power of inclusive sports and the lasting impact of Special Olympics.
Learn more at specialolympicswashington.org (https://specialolympicswashington.org/).
To donate click here (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/washington?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP).
Questions or feedback? Email us at findyourwaypodcast@gmail.com.
22 Jan 2025
CEO Mary Do Is Leading Special Olympics Washington Into Its 50th Year
In this inspiring episode of "Finding Your Why: Stories of Acceptance," we chat with Mary Do, CEO of Special Olympics Washington, as she shares her incredible 25-year journey with the organization. Starting as an administrative assistant in California, Mary chose to follow her passion for Special Olympics over pursuing her father’s dream of her becoming an attorney. Today, she leads with a vision of inclusion, empowerment, and transformation.
Learn about Special Olympics Washington’s upcoming 50th anniversary, their impactful partnership with law enforcement through the Law Enforcement Torch Run program, and exciting opportunities to get involved, such as the Polar Plunge event. Mary sheds light on how Special Olympics goes beyond sports—building confidence, creating lasting friendships, and fostering inclusion for all.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a leader dedicated to transforming lives and shaping the future of Special Olympics Washington.
For more information, visit specialolympicswashington.org (https://specialolympicswashington.org/).
To donate, click here (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/washington?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP).
Questions or feedback? Email us at findyourwaypodcast@gmail.com.
8 Jan 2025
Special Olympics Washington Athlete Leadership Ambassador and 2018 USA Games XBox Gaming Gold Medalist Tim Dempsey
In this inspiring episode of "Finding Your Why: Stories of Acceptance," co-host Tim Dempsey steps into the spotlight to share what Special Olympics Washington (SOWA) means to him. Tim reflects on how SOWA has shaped his life, from fostering personal growth to achieving monumental milestones—like becoming the first-ever Xbox Gaming Gold Medalist at the 2018 USA Games in Seattle. He also highlights the profound impact SOWA coaches have had on athletes, creating a community where inclusion and empowerment thrive.
Discover how Special Olympics Washington leads the way in sports, inclusive health, and community building for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, making a difference on and off the field.
Learn more at specialolympicswashington.org (https://specialolympicswashington.org/).
To donate click here (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/washington?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP).
Questions or feedback? Email us at findyourwaypodcast@gmail.com.
31 Dec 2024
We're Finding Our Why
What’s Special Olympics Washington all about? And why do people get involved? We're here to dive into the "why." Join your hosts, Tim and Donovan, as they chat about what’s coming up in this new podcast – why we're doing it, who we’re talking to, and what you can expect. We’re pumped to share the amazing stories of the people behind Special Olympics Washington and what makes this organization so awesome.
If you want to reach out to use, please email us at findyourwhypodcast@gmail.com.
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Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 35 / 100
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