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Community Impact

Need a Lift? Tim Shriver’s Premieres Podcast with Special Olympics Global Ambassador Michael Phelps

Tim Shriver pictured holding coffee mug with text overlay reading, “Need a Lift? with Tim Shriver”

On his quest to combat the hardship and burdens of daily living, Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver introduces his new podcast, Need a Lift?, to uncover the good in each of us. In this weekly series, Shriver invites a variety of guests—athletes, parents, unexpected experts—who share an ability to transform painful moments in their lives into purpose. Capturing both powerful trusts and simple practices to strengthen the human spirit, Shriver and his guests will invite listeners into their open conversations.

The podcast premiere on 30 September, 2024, hosted on Acast, features Special Olympics Global Ambassador and U.S. Olympian Michael Phelps and his wife, Nicole. Their dialogue emphasizes their deep commitment to the Special Olympics movement and the athletes involved through the Michael Phelps Foundation, which has expanded its focus beyond swimming to include mental health and overall well-being. They share the importance of healthy competition and the value of bravery, perseverance and joy in the face of challenges.

Upcoming episodes will invite fellow world-changers, including Loretta Claiborne, to rejuvenate the media landscape of hatred and division. Current and upcoming episodes of Need a Lift? are available online.

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Tune In: July 9 - A Special Olympics Interview with Michael Phelps and the Michael Phelps Foundation

On Tuesday, July 9 at 12:00 p.m. ET, Special Olympics will premiere an exclusive interview with Special Olympics Global Ambassador and U.S. Olympian Michael Phelps and his wife Nicole, hosted by Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver.
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The following is an excerpt from an op-ed in Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper, written by Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver and professional basketball player Tony Snell:
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