Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

About Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

“Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games” is a landmark 10‑part narrative podcast series from Special Chronicles, documenting the journey to, through, and beyond the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis–St. Paul. This series brings listeners inside the heart of the movement — following athletes, families, coaches, organizers, and Unified partners as they prepare for the Games, compete on the national stage, and reflect on the legacy they leave behind. Told through immersive storytelling, on‑site audio, and powerful firsthand voices, the series unfolds in three acts.

Publisher

Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Aug 2021

Latest episode

28 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

30 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   28 Jul 2026

   Live From 2026USAGames Series Finale Ep.12: The Legacy | Ep.857

   On this Series Finale episode of “Road to 2026 Special Olympics USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” host Daniel Smrokowski, Founder of Special Chronicles and Special Olympics Athlete Leader, sits down with Jessica Poole, Director of Communications for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Together, they reflect on the meaning, impact, and legacy of the Games. 🌟 What You’ll Hear in This Episode • The moment that defined the 2026 USA Games • The lasting legacy for athletes, families, and communities • How athlete leaders influenced the culture of the Games • The future of Unified Sports nationwide • The long‑term impact of Healthy Athletes screenings • Inclusion momentum in Minneapolis–St. Paul • National conversations sparked by the Games • Behind‑the‑scenes decisions, challenges, and breakthroughs • Inspiring the next generation of athletes • What inclusion means today • A call to action for listeners Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction 10:00 Looking Back 15:00 Defining Legacy 25:00 Leadership Perspective 36:00 Athlete Leadership 44:00 Unified Sports Growth 49:00 Healthy Athletes Legacy 01:00:00 Host City, National Movement, and Corporate Partner Legacy 01:10:00 Challenges & Breakthroughs 01:12:56 Personal Reflection 01:18:45 Next Generation 01:20:00 Movement Evolution 01:23:45 Sustaining Inclusion 01:28:45 Message to Athletes 01:30:00 Message to Families 01:32:20 Call to Action 01:35:00 Define Inclusion 👍 Like, Subscribe & Share Help us continue telling stories that celebrate inclusion, leadership, and the power of the Special Olympics movement. 📱 Follow and Connect Follow the full 12-part 2026 USA Games Series at: SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames 🎧For more weekly episodes of the Special Chronicles Podcast, follow SpecialChronicles wherever you get podcasts: SpecialChronicles.com/Pod 📺 Like watching your podcasts? Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@specialchronicles/podcasts ➕Join SpecialChronicles+ PLUS to support the podcast and access bonus content. Starting at $10, Join Now at: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 🛒 Merch: SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📱Follow us on Socials: Instagram: https://instagram.com/specialchronicles Facebook: https://facebook.com/specialchronicles LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/special-chronicles/ 📧Subscribe to our Mailing List to get updates of new episodes and more updates: SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER The post Live From 2026USAGames Series Finale Ep.12: The Legacy | Ep.857 (https://specialchronicles.com/podcast857/) first appeared on Special Chronicles (https://specialchronicles.com).

2. 

   28 Jul 2026

   Live From 2026USAGames Ep.11: Inclusion in Action | Ep.856

   On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, and in celebration of the anniversary of Special Olympics and the Global Week of Inclusion, this episode is all about Inclusion in Action. In this fast-paced montage episode, we hear from 10 unique voices—including athletes, fans, and families—sharing their heartfelt answers to one powerful question: “What does inclusion mean to you?" Through inspiring, authentic, and moving reflections, discover how inclusion creates belonging, builds communities, and transforms lives both on and off the field of play. These short stories and perspectives capture the spirit of Special Olympics and remind us that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and included. 🎧 Stream more episodes anytime: SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames Subscribe, listen, and join us as we bring you empowering stories and memorable moments from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, right here on Special Chronicles. The post Live From 2026USAGames Ep.11: Inclusion in Action | Ep.856 (https://specialchronicles.com/podcast856/) first appeared on Special Chronicles (https://specialchronicles.com).

3. 

   28 Jul 2026

   Live From 2026USAGames Ep.10: ESPN Unified Sports Challenge | Ep.855

   On this episode Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we’re podcasting from the heart of the action at the ESPN Unified Sports Challenge, where Special Olympics athletes, celebrities, NBA stars, and Olympic champions come together to compete side-by-side in the ultimate celebration of inclusion. Host Daniel Smrokowski takes you onto the field for exclusive conversations with Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic and Olympian Annie Kunz (Track & Field). Plus, hear exclusive audio from the Honored Guest Reception. From the courts to the sidelines, we bring you inspiring interviews with NBA legends, Team USA Olympians, Unified partners, and supporters who share why the Special Olympics movement motivates them to show up, compete, and champion inclusion for all. You’ll also hear from first-time USA Games fans, families, volunteers, and community supporters experiencing the power and joy of Unified Sports for the very first time. Their reactions capture what makes these Games so special: friendship, community, and a future where everyone belongs. 🎧 Catch the full conversations at: SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames Subscribe, listen, and join us as we bring you empowering stories, inspiring athlete voices, and unforgettable moments from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, right here on Special Chronicles. The post Live From 2026USAGames Ep.10: ESPN Unified Sports Challenge | Ep.855 (https://specialchronicles.com/podcast855/) first appeared on Special Chronicles (https://specialchronicles.com).

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.