On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Grace Payne, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger for Special Olympics, as she reflects on the recently concluded Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025. Grace shares her incredible journey with Special Olympics and her role as a Global Messenger, offering insight into the impact of these Games on the athletes and the global community.
Episode Highlights:
- Grace shares her journey as a Sargent Shriver Global Messenger, explaining what this prestigious role means to her both personally and professionally.
- Learn how Grace first became involved with Special Olympics and the milestones of her journey that led her to her current role.
- Grace talks about the responsibilities of a Global Messenger and the unique opportunities she has had to represent Special Olympics on a global stage.
- Grace reflects on what made the World Winter Games in Turin special for her, including memorable moments from the Games.
- What is Grace most excited about regarding the athletes' experiences and the global community that came together during the Games? Plus, a memorable moment from her role as a Global Messenger.
- Grace recounts some of the most memorable events she’s attended or hosted as part of her role, and what these experiences mean to her.
- With Turin hosting the World Winter Games for the first time, Grace shares her thoughts on the city and what she experienced there.
- Grace offers a powerful message to athletes heading into the World Winter Games in Turin, emphasizing the spirit of inclusion and talent of athletes with intellectual disabilities.
- Grace discusses aspects of the athletes’ journey that are often overlooked or misunderstood by those outside the Special Olympics community.
- What does it mean for Grace to witness athletes participating at such a high level, and how do their journeys continue to inspire her personally?
- Grace talks about how Special Olympics helps to shift societal perceptions about individuals with intellectual disabilities and promote inclusion.
- As a Global Messenger, Grace encourages others to get involved in Special Olympics, whether as volunteers, supporters, or athletes.
- Grace shares how we can continue making society more inclusive for people with intellectual disabilities, both inside and outside of the Games.
- Grace reflects on the Games’ motto, "The Future Is Here," and shares her thoughts on its significance.
- Grace discusses her hopes for the future of Special Olympics, both on a global level and within her own community.
- As the Special Olympics World Winter Games come to a close, Grace leaves us with a powerful message about the power of sport, unity, and inclusion.
Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about the power of Special Olympics, the importance of inclusion, and the incredible impact of the World Winter Games in Turin 2025!
Episode 762 ShowNotes & Links
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