On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Tyler Lagasse, a Special Olympics USA athlete who’s making waves in the world of Alpine skiing. Tyler has been a part of the Special Olympics Movement for over 21 years and is set to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025. We talk about his incredible journey, from his early days as a Special Olympics athlete to his experiences as a multi-sport competitor, including athletics, basketball, and golf.
Tyler shares what it’s been lik...
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Tyler Lagasse, a Special Olympics USA athlete who’s making waves in the world of Alpine skiing. Tyler has been a part of the Special Olympics Movement for over 21 years and is set to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025. We talk about his incredible journey, from his early days as a Special Olympics athlete to his experiences as a multi-sport competitor, including athletics, basketball, and golf.
Tyler shares what it’s been like to represent Special Olympics USA on the world stage, the impact of his family and community's support, and the preparation that goes into competing in Alpine skiing. He also opens up about his inspiration, drawing motivation from Olympic champion Bode Miller, and his goal to earn a medal in his honor.
In this episode, Tyler discusses the highs and lows of his athletic career, including being inducted into the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame, receiving an honorary ESPY Award, and co-authoring a book with his mother that raises awareness about autism. He offers valuable advice for young athletes and anyone facing challenges in their own journey.
Tune in to hear about Tyler's experiences in Turin, how Special Olympics has shaped his confidence and self-advocacy as an athlete with autism, and the powerful message of inclusion he hopes to share with the world.
Key Topics:
- Tyler’s 21+ years with Special Olympics
- The sport that has impacted him the most
- Memorable moments from competing in the Special Olympics USA Games
- The role of family and community support
- Competing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin
- Preparing physically and mentally for Alpine skiing
- Tyler’s inspiration from Bode Miller and his goal for a medal
- A day in the life of Tyler’s Alpine skiing training regimen
- Overcoming setbacks and challenges in training
- The influence of recognitions like the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame and honorary ESPY Award
- Staying motivated through tough moments
- Advice for young athletes and the next chapter in Tyler’s journey
- The importance of raising awareness about autism and promoting inclusion
We explore Tyler’s personal take on inclusion and how the Special Olympics movement has shaped him not only as an athlete but as a person, inspiring others to embrace their differences and find strength in their uniqueness.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Tyler whose dedication, perseverance, and advocacy continue to make a lasting impact.
Episode 763 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast763
- 🎧 Listen Now! Listen and Follow Now on Special Chronicles
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- Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games
- Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube
- Get involved in the Special Olympics Movement
- Connect with Special Olympics USA
- Meet The Turin 2025 Team
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- Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
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
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