Hosted by 2x Paralympian Dani Aravich, this podcast features the world’s top para alpine, snowboard, and cross-country skiers, diving into what makes them the best, their journeys to Milano Cortina 2026, and how para sports actually work. Tune in for real stories and behind-the-scenes insight you won’t hear anywhere else. New episodes drop weekly now through March 6, available wherever you get your podcasts.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
Mark Arendz: Setting the Bar in Para Nordic Skiing
Mark Arendz is an athlete whose dedication, consistency, and hunger for excellence have made him one of the most decorated para Nordic skiers in history. With 12 Paralympic medals, 26 World Championship medals, and five overall World Cup Crystal Globes, Mark’s career reflects not just longevity, but an unmatched level of mastery in both cross-country skiing and biathlon.
In this episode, we dive into what sets Mark Arendz apart: his relentless pursuit of perfection, his passion for classic technique, and the drive that keeps him at the top of his sport more than two decades after his World Cup debut. Mark shares insights into how he stays competitive against the best in the world, how he continuously refines every aspect of his performance, and why competing for Team Canada alongside both seasoned teammates and rising stars keeps the sport fresh and exciting.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Mark Arendz: https://www.instagram.com/markarendz
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
2 Mar 2026
Vilde Nilsen: Why Para Sport Needs More Spotlight
Vilde Nilsen is one of the most dominant para-cross-country skiers in the world. With 12 world titles, three Paralympic medals, and five overall World Cup victories, Vilde’s journey is nothing short of incredible. In this episode she shares how a chance moment watching the Paralympic opening ceremony introduced her to para sport, resulting in her becoming one of the best in the world.
From growing up in a sports-loving Norwegian family and facing a rare illness,, to becoming a leader on the international stage, Vilde’s story captures resilience, and the drive to push boundaries. Tune in as Vilde discusses the unique hurdles para athletes face, her preparations for the upcoming Paralympic Games, and why increased visibility and media coverage for parasport is so crucial - both for current competitors and young athletes dreaming big.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Vilde Nilsen: https://www.instagram.com/vildenilsen_
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
23 Feb 2026
Kate Delson: Stoked for the Paralympics
Kate Delson is a 15-time World Cup medalist, World Championship medalist, and one of the rising stars of U.S. Para Snowboard. And that’s despite the fact that she only competed in her first international Paralympic race in 2024.
In this episode, host Dani Aravich chats with Kate about her journey from learning to snowboard as a kid with a disability in Mammoth Lakes, California, to qualifying for her first Paralympic Games. Kate shares what it's like to switch from park riding to racing at the international level, how she trains year-round, and the excitement of representing Team USA on the world stage.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Kate Delson: hhttps://www.instagram.com/k8gr8123/
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
16 Feb 2026
Oscar Burnham: The Power of Paralympic Dreams
Oscar Burnham is one of the world’s top standing male skiers on the Para Alpine World Cup circuit - and his journey is as remarkable as his results. In this episode of Hidden Champions, host Dani Aravich sits down with Oscar Burnham, who was born in Italy, competes for Team France, and grew up carving turns in the French Alps. With six World Cup medals and a World Championships podium to his name, Oscar opens up about his life on the road, the thrill of racing at home, and the tight-knit friendships that shape the sport.
But Oscar Burnham’s story goes even deeper: after a life-altering accident as a teen, he re-learned his sport and discovered the power and opportunity of the Paralympic movement - with inspiration from legendary athletes before him. This episode is an honest, uplifting look at how Oscar turned adversity into achievement, what motivates him on and off the slopes, and why visibility and representation in para sport matter more than ever.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Oscar Burnham: https://www.instagram.com/burnhamoscar
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
9 Feb 2026
Ebba Årsjö: Embracing Paralympic Pride on the Alpine Slopes
Ebba Årsjö is one of the brightest stars in para alpine skiing, and in this episode of Hidden Champions, we get to know the story behind the medals. Host Dani Aravich sits down with Ebba Årsjö to explore her journey from learning to ski at age six to becoming a three-time medalist on the world’s biggest stage in Beijing.
Together, they candidly discuss what it took for Ebba Årsjö to transition from able-bodied competitions to the world of parasport, the emotional challenges of embracing her identity as a para athlete, and how she’s turned adversity into empowerment. Ebba opens up about the demanding life of a professional skier, balancing different alpine disciplines, and finding new motivation ahead of the Milan Paralympics - all while advocating for the visibility and inclusion of athletes with disabilities.
Tune in to hear how Ebba Årsjö is redefining athleticism, pursuing gold, and inspiring the next generation to believe in what’s possible, no matter the obstacles.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Ebba Årsjö: https://www.instagram.com/ebbaarsjo
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
2 Feb 2026
Tyler Turner: Forged in the Cold
Tyler Turner is a Canadian Paralympic snowboard champion and one of the biggest and baddest competitors in the para snowboard scene. In this episode, you will learn about his remarkable journey from a life-changing skydiving accident to the top of the podium.
Tyler opens up about his road to the Paralympics, what it's like to race on some of the most challenging courses in the world, and how cutting-edge prosthetic technology has revolutionized para snowboarding. You’ll also hear about the tight-knit, competitive, and distinctly “Canadian” culture of Team Canada, the nuances of para snowboard competition and classification, and the growing excitement around the sport as we approach the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as we discover why Tyler Turner is one of the best athletes you’ve never heard of (until now).
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Tyler Turner: https://www.instagram.com/tyturner14
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
26 Jan 2026
Zebastian Modin: The LeBron James of Para Cross-Country?
Zebastian Modin is one of the most decorated visually impaired cross-country skiers on the planet. As a four-time (soon-to-be five-time!) Paralympian and eight-time medalist, Zebastian Modin shares his inspiring journey—from discovering his love for endurance sports to rising to the top of his sport.
Hosted by Dani Aravich, this episode dives into how para sports are evolving, the unique challenges of competitive classification, and what it really takes to train (and trust) a guide on the snow. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to para sports, this episode offers a revealing look at the heart, dedication, and ever-growing level of competition shaping the run-up to the Milan Paralympic Games. Don’t miss this deep-dive into the remarkable career and mindset of Zebastian Modin - the “LeBron James” of visually impaired Nordic skiing.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Zebastian Modin: https://www.instagram.com/zebastianmodin
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
19 Jan 2026
Adam Hall: New Zealand's Skiing Legend
In the first ever episode of "Hidden Champions", host Dani Aravich sits down with Adam Hall, a five-time Paralympian from New Zealand whose stellar career spans over two decades and countless podiums, including medals at three Paralympic Games and a coveted crystal globe.
As Adam shares his experiences, you'll hear about the sacrifices and relentless dedication required to compete at the highest level, including time spent away from his family and the unique challenges para athletes face, both on and off the snow. From his early days transitioning from snowboarding to skiing, to the intricacies of classification and the factor system in para sports, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it truly means to be a world-class athlete in the para alpine community.
You'll also get an intimate glimpse into Adam Hall’s support system, with a heartfelt message from his wife, Elitsa Hall - a Paralympian herself - and reflections on the evolving respect for para athletes across the globe. Whether you’re a winter sport fanatic or new to the world of Paralympic skiing, this conversation is sure to inspire and deepen your appreciation for the resilience and talent that defines the para alpine racing world.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
- Adam Hall: https://www.instagram.com/kiwiskiracer
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
18 Jan 2026
Trailer: This is Hidden Champions
Hosted by 2x Paralympian Dani Aravich, this podcast features the world’s top para alpine, snowboard, and cross-country skiers, diving into what makes them the best, their journeys to Milano Cortina 2026, and how para sports actually work. Tune in for real stories and behind-the-scenes insight you won’t hear anywhere else. New episodes drop weekly now through March 6, available wherever you get your podcasts.
🎧 SUBSCRIBE TO “HIDDEN CHAMPIONS” ON:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3J1vBOZpMrnhcFAltSyxtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1870046273
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FISparasnowsports
- RSS-Feed: https://fis-hidden-champions.podigee.io/feed/mp3
🤳🏼 FOLLOW US:
- Para Snowsports account: https://www.instagram.com/parasnowsports/
- Dani Aravich: https://www.instagram.com/theonearmdan
Hidden Champions is a FIS original production by FIS - International Ski and Snowboard Federation in cooperation with Maniac Studios.
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