Apolo Ohno — 8X Medalist: Hard Pivot, Focus, and the Winter Olympic Games

In celebration of the Winter Olympic Games (February 6–22, 2026), this week on the Special Chronicles Podcast we’re revisiting a powerful encore conversation with Apolo Anton Ohno — 8-time Olympic medalist, the most decorated Winter Olympian in U.S. history, and proud Special Olympics Global Ambassador. Apolo reflects on his early years, the discipline that shaped his identity, and the journey that led him to become one of the most iconic athletes in Winter Games history. He shares his passion for championing inclusion, discusses his induction into the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame, and explains how his work as a Global Ambassador continues to inspire athletes of all abilities. We also explore life during quarantine, staying focused through uncertainty, and get a preview of his book Hard Pivot. A timely and inspiring conversation celebrating the Winter Games and the athletes who move our world forward. Listen anytime, anywhere, on your favorite podcast apps at SpecialChronicles.com. This episode originally aired on April 29, 2020 Episode 821 ShowNotes & Links 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles 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 an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he 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 |  Discover Daniel’s Story – Listen here