PODCAST · society
The Special Chronicles Podcast Network
by Daniel Smrokowski
Special Chronicles is a Global Digital Media Platform, a Podcast Network giving respect and voice to people with special needs. We produce podcasts, videos, news stories, blogs and award-winning columns that have reached 37,800 average monthly viewers per month globally. The Special Chronicles radio show is our flagship program, tells special needs stories in a unique way because the host, Daniel “PodmanDan” Smrokowski, is a person with special needs. Because of his insider’s perspective and the show being available online, Special Chronicles broadcasts distinctive, first person accounts of special needs that are heard around the world. Daniel interviews people with special needs including their families, friends and anyone who touches their lives. Special Chronicles is your weekly guide to finding joy, acceptance, and inclusion.The Special Chronicles radio show lets us meet real people, hear their voices and understand what is important to people with special needs. It is desperate
Episodes
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Discerning An Audience | Unified at Work Series S7:E4
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series Season 7, Episode 4, Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Jimi Allen, founder of TalkLab and agency owner of Bureau Gravity, for a conversation rooted in connection, creativity, and inclusion. Jimi shares the story of how...
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Innersense Beauty and Joyful Leadership with Joanne & Morgan Starkman | Unified at Work Series S7:E3
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series Season 7, Episode 3, Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Joanne Starkman, co‑founder of Innersense Organic Beauty, and her daughter Morgan Starkman Starkman, the company’s beloved Director of Joy. This heart‑centered...
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Future of Inclusive Employment with Bill Dwyer of Helping Hand | Unified at Work Series S7:E2
On this Season 7, Episode 2 of Unified at Work: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we feature a re‑released excerpt from our 2025 conversation with Bill Dwyer, CEO of Helping Hand, joining host Daniel Smrokowski to discuss the future of meaningful employment for people with intellectual...
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From Loss to Leadership: United Employees Changing the Conversation on Mental Health | Unified at Work Series S7:E1 | Ep.862
In this special crossover episode of Special Chronicles' Unified at Work Series and Mental Health Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes fellow United Airlines employees Melinda Riddle and Donna Paggi for a powerful conversation about grief, resilience, mental health advocacy, and hope. Melinda...
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Celebrating 15 Years of ComEd EnergyForce Program | EnergyForce S9:E4
Join us for a special milestone episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast: EnergyForce Series as we celebrate 15 years of the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program with three guests who represent the program's incredible journey from past to present. Host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Paula Conrad,...
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Electric Vehicles 101: Your Guide to a Cleaner, Smarter Future | EnergyForce Series S9:E3
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast’s EnergyForce Series (Season 9, Episode 3), host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kara Schwer, Manager of Marketing & Customer Education at ComEd, for an energizing conversation about the fast‑growing world of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and the…
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Reason for Hope: Ben Haack on Raising Happy, Resilient Kids After an Autism Diagnosis
This week on the Special Chronicles Podcast, Host and Special Olympics Athlete Leader Daniel Smrokowski sits down with fellow Special Olympics Athlete Leader and author Ben Haack to discuss his new book, Reason for Hope: A Parent’s Playbook for Raising Happy and Resilient Kids. Written as a…
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Live From Chicago Ducky Derby 2026
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast recorded on location from the Chicago Ducky Derby 2026, we bring you the excitement of 90,000 ducks splashing into the Chicago River from the Columbus Drive Bridge — all benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. You’ll hear conversations with sponsors...
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Live From 2026USAGames Series Finale Ep.12: The Legacy
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...
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.11: Inclusion in Action
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...
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.10: ESPN Unified Sports Challenge
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…
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.9: Athlete Media
On this episode Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we're taking you inside the stories behind the storytellers — the athletes who are shaping how the world sees the Games. First, we meet Wyatt, a proud Special Olympics athlete and Sargent Shriver…
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.8: Game Day Moments
On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, it's all about the unforgettable Game Day Moments that bring the spirit of the USA Games to life! Join host Daniel Smrokowski from the heart of the action in Minnesota, where athletes, Unified...
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.7: Inside the Fan Zone
On this episode of Live From the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Daniel connects with Eric Wilfrid of Special Olympics Northern California, Debra Spears, a passionate fan, Sam Wagner, a Team Illinois Athletics athlete, Chris Ritchie, a volunteer from…
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.6: Opening Ceremony
On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we’re reporting on location from Huntington Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota during the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics USAGames. From our press box vantage point, we capture the...
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Live From 2026USAGames Ep.5: Healthy Athletes [Audio Updated]
On this episode of LIVE From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host and Health Messenger Daniel Smrokowski is podcasting location at the University of Minnesota for the official Healthy Athletes Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Tune in as Daniel co‑emcees this event...
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Road To 2026USAGames: The Family Perspective: Love, Support, and the Journey to the USA Games
On this heartfelt episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Cathy O’Neill, whose daughter Katie will compete in Gymnastics for Team Illinois at the 2026 USA Games. Cathy shares what it means to be part of her athlete’s...
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Road To 2026USAGames: Communications, Storytelling, and the Heart of Team Illinois
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski spotlights the essential behind‑the‑scenes work that brings the Special Olympics movement to life. We sit down with Katelin Zandi, a dedicated Team Illinois staff member whose...
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Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Matt Corso, Head Coach for Team Illinois Bowling, to explore the deep impact coaches have on athletes preparing for the 2026 USA Games. Matt opens up about...
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Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte - Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we spotlight a groundbreaking moment in USA Games history: the debut of Unified Cornhole. Representing Special Olympics Rhode Island, Unified partner Sharon Laliberte shares what it means to compete...
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Road To 2026USAGames: Amanda Propheter — Swimming, Team Illinois
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we return to the water with Amanda Propheter, a swimmer whose positivity and drive ripple through every practice. Amanda talks about the support system that lifts her up, the challenges she’s faced...
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Unified Cheer--Team SO Mississippi Road to the 2026 USA Games
In this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Erin, athlete Libby Cheney, and unified partner Marian Lynch from Special Olympics Mississippi Interscholastic Division of Competitive Cheer team. Together,...
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Unified Cheer--Team SO Oklahoma’s Road to the 2026 USA Games
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Christina Gould from the Special Olympics Oklahoma Interscholastic Division of Competitive Cheer team. Together, we share how Unified Cheer builds...
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Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we dive into the pool with Team Illinois swimmer Val Densler, whose determination is as strong as her stroke. In this conversation, Val opens up about her training routine, the challenges she’s...
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Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we flip over to the gymnastics floor with Katie O’Neill, a Team Illinois athlete whose strength, grace, and discipline shine through every routine. Katie shares how she prepares mentally and...
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Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System
On episode 4 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we dive into the heart of what powers every Special Olympics athlete: their support system. From coaches who guide athletes toward the national stage to families who cheer through every high and low, this...
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Road To 2026USAGames Ep.3: The Athletes' Journey
On episode 3 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, “The Athletes Journey” we explore what it truly takes for Special Olympics athletes to prepare for the 2026 USA Games. Join Daniel Smrokowski, Podcast Host, Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Leader and former...
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Road To 2026USA Games Ep.2: Athlete Advisory Council
On this Episode 2 of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we take you behind the scenes with a two incredible athlete leaders — David Booth and Shaun Linsey, co-chairs of the Athlete Advisory Council for the 2026 USA Games. Hosted by Daniel Smrokowski —...
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Road To 2026USA Games Ep.1: What Are The USA Games?
Episode 1 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series kicks off our journey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games by answering the essential question: What are the USA Games? On this premiere episode, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined today with someone who has been...
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TRAILER: Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series
Ranked #1 for “USA Games” in search results, this landmark 10‑part narrative series from Special Chronicles follows the journey to, through, and beyond the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis–St. Paul. Through immersive storytelling, on‑site sound, and firsthand voices from athletes, families, coaches,...
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World Accessibility Day: Inclusion Takes Flight
On this special episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, released in honor of World Accessibility Day on May 21, 2026, host Daniel Smrokowski presents a compelling conversation recorded live at the VMS Professionals 2023 Conference. Daniel sits down with Captain Jill Mills of United Airlines…
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Mental Health Series: A Flight Attendant’s Journey Through Mental Health & Advocacy
On this Mental Health Awareness Month episode on the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes listeners to our 3‑part mental health series, featuring weekly encore conversations designed to empower audiences with firsthand resources, real stories, and practical tools to support...
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Mental Health Series: Strong Minds Strategies for Stress & Resilience
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by Carolyn Cronin as they continue the show’s Mental Health Awareness Month 3‑Part Series. This week’s encore episode features an honest and supportive conversation about coping with stress and anxiety during a...
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Mental Health Series: Building Strong Minds with Margaret Turley
This week on the Special Chronicles Podcast, we are honoring Mental Health Awareness Month with a powerful encore conversation — and the Season 2 Finale of our Inclusive Health Series. Host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by Margaret Turley, Sargent Shriver Global Messenger from Ireland, who brings…
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Joyful Grit with Zach Anner — A Preview of the 76th Arc of Illinois Convention
On this special encore episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, Host Daniel Smrokowski is bringing you a conversation that perfectly sets the stage for The Arc of Illinois 76th Annual Convention — “Together We Rise,” happening April 29-30, 2026, in Bloomington‑Normal and online. We’re…
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Alex Lehmann: Behind The Scenes of Aspergers Are Us
April marks Autism Acceptance Month, and this encore installment of the Special Chronicles Podcast Limited Series uplifts the voices, stories, and lived experiences that continue to expand society’s understanding of autism. In this episode, host Daniel Smrokowski revisits a lively and insightful...
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Dr. Kerry Magro: From nonverbal child to national speaker
April is Autism Acceptance Month, and this encore episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast honors the voices, stories, and lived experiences that continue to deepen our understanding of autism. Hosted by Daniel Smrokowski, this episode revisits a lively, thoughtful, and deeply human conversation...
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Tyler McNamer: Population One--Autism, Adversity, and the Will to Succeed
April is Autism Acceptance Month, and this encore episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast honors the voices, stories, and lived experiences that continue to shape our understanding of autism. Hosted by Daniel Smrokowski, this episode revisits a powerful conversation originally aired in December...
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DanTalks: Polar Plunge 2026
In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast’s DanTalks Series, host Daniel Smrokowski shares his heartfelt speech from the 2026 Polar Plunge—an inspiring event that brings communities together in support of Special Olympics athletes. More than just a jump into icy waters, the Polar Plunge...
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Inside Jersey Mike’s Month & Day of Giving
In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Maegan Duffy, Director of Operations for the Hellcat Group, a Jersey Mike’s franchise organization deeply involved in the Month and Day of Giving supporting Special Olympics. Each year, Jersey Mike’s donates...
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Nancy Goodfellow Returns: Celebrating Special & World Down Syndrome Day
Author Nancy Goodfellow returns to the Special Chronicles Podcast for an encore conversation celebrating the March release of her new novel, Special, and World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st. Host Daniel Smrokowski and Nancy explore the story of Madison and Meg—two junior high friends navigating...
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Be Cool. Take The Polar Plunge
Dive into a refreshing and meaningful conversation as Tim Griffin and Nick Spurgash from the LaGrange Park Police Department join Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski for a special Polar Plunge edition of the Special Chronicles Podcast. This episode celebrates the joy, courage, and community spirit...
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Becoming a Special Olympics Coach: Austin Graf’s Journey from College to SEASPAR
In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Austin Graf, Recreation Specialist at SEASPAR and Special Olympics Illinois coach. Daniel and Austin first met at the 2025 Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games, where Austin coached Daniel in bocce at the...
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Spread the Word: Words Matter
In this powerful episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host and founder Daniel Smrokowski welcomes back Special Olympics Athlete Leader, writer, and advocate Amanda Harrinauth for an important conversation about the global Spread the Word campaign and this year’s theme: Words Matter. Amanda...
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Inside Special Olympics Illinois’ New Athlete Leadership University
In this special encore episode of The Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Michelle Mark, Director of Athlete Leadership and Family Initiatives, and Emily Sullivan, Assistant Director of Athlete Leadership and Family Initiatives at Special Olympics Illinois. Together, they...
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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...
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Marriage, Love, and Belonging with Matthew & Crystal Williams
This Valentine’s‑week episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast celebrates partnership, faith, and the power of belonging. Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Matthew and Crystal Williams from Special Olympics Canada for a heartfelt conversation about love, advocacy, and the journey of building a…
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Meet Sven Albrecht, New Regional President of Special Olympics Europe Eurasia
On this encore episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, Sven Albrecht joins host Daniel Smrokowski for an energizing conversation recorded during the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 — the world’s largest inclusive sports event, held June 17–25, 2023. Sven, now the Regional President of...
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Trace Nardi - Best Buddies | EnergyForce Series S9:E2
In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast EnergyForce Series S9:E2, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Trace Nardi, a ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador and proud participant in Best Buddies Illinois. Trace shares his inspiring journey as a new EnergyForce Ambassador, spreading the message…
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Energy Savings 101 | EnergyForce Series S9:E1
On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast EnergyForce Series S9:E1, award-winning host and founder Daniel Smrokowski kicks off Season 9 of the EnergyForce Series—marking the 9th year of partnership with the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program. In Energy Savings 101, Daniel shares an...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Special Chronicles is a Global Digital Media Platform, a Podcast Network giving respect and voice to people with special needs. We produce podcasts, videos, news stories, blogs and award-winning columns that have reached 37,800 average monthly viewers per month globally. The Special Chronicles radio show is our flagship program, tells special needs stories in a unique way because the host, Daniel “PodmanDan” Smrokowski, is a person with special needs. Because of his insider’s perspective and the show being available online, Special Chronicles broadcasts distinctive, first person accounts of special needs that are heard around the world. Daniel interviews people with special needs including their families, friends and anyone who touches their lives. Special Chronicles is your weekly guide to finding joy, acceptance, and inclusion.The Special Chronicles radio show lets us meet real people, hear their voices and understand what is important to people with special needs. It is desperate
HOSTED BY
Daniel Smrokowski
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Special Chronicles Podcast Network have?
The Special Chronicles Podcast Network currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Special Chronicles Podcast Network about?
Special Chronicles is a Global Digital Media Platform, a Podcast Network giving respect and voice to people with special needs. We produce podcasts, videos, news stories, blogs and award-winning columns that have reached 37,800 average monthly viewers per month globally. The Special Chronicles...
How often does The Special Chronicles Podcast Network release new episodes?
The Special Chronicles Podcast Network has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Special Chronicles Podcast Network?
You can listen to The Special Chronicles Podcast Network on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Special Chronicles Podcast Network?
The Special Chronicles Podcast Network is created and hosted by Daniel Smrokowski.
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