Running for Inclusion: Mark Bravo on the 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K

Running for Inclusion: Mark Bravo on the 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah Soell sits down with longtime friend of DSACO, race ambassador, coach, and event emcee Mark Bravo to talk all things 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K. Mark shares how he first became involved with DSACO, what keeps him coming back year after year, and why he believes this event has the power to change lives. Together, Sarah and Mark walk through everything you need to know before race day—from the 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run to the Awareness Walk and festival activities that bring thousands of people together in celebration of inclusion. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a first-time participant, a team captain, or simply someone looking to support an incredible cause, this episode will inspire you to join us on September 26 at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. In This Episode * How Mark Bravo became involved with DSACO and the Festival & 5K * Why this event impacts so many families and community members * Tips for first-time 5K participants * What to expect from the 1-Mile Fun Run and Awareness Walk * Festival highlights and family-friendly activities * How to participate through the Virtual 5K from anywhere * Why everyone has a place at the Down Syndrome Festival & 5K Event Details Saturday, September 26, 2026 Myriad Botanical Gardens | Oklahoma City, OK Schedule * 7:00–8:00 AM – Registration & Check-In * 8:00 AM – 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run * 9:45 AM – Awareness Walk * 10:00 AM – Festival Begins * 11:30 AM – Raffle Drawings Register Today Visit dsfestivaland5k.com [http://dsfestivaland5k.com] to: * Register for the 5K * Sign up for the 1-Mile Fun Run * Start or join a fundraising team * Make a donation * Learn more about the festival Connect with DSACO Website: dsaco.org [http://dsaco.org] Email: info@dsaco.org [info@dsaco.org]

Swim Safety with Wyatt from British Swim School

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we sit down with Wyatt from British Swim School to talk all about swim safety, adaptive swim lessons, and the importance of water confidence for individuals with Down syndrome. As summer begins and families spend more time around pools, lakes, and water parks, this conversation is an important reminder that water safety can truly save lives. Wyatt shares practical tips for parents, discusses how swim lessons can be adapted for different learning styles, and explains why swimming is such an important life skill for self-advocates. You may remember Wyatt from our Spring Break Swim Camp with DSACO, and we were so excited to bring him onto the podcast to continue this important conversation! In this episode, we discuss: 💦 Why swim safety is especially important for individuals with Down syndrome 💦 Adaptive teaching techniques and building confidence in the water 💦 Safety skills every child should know 💦 How parents can reinforce water safety at home 💦 The lifelong benefits of swimming and water confidence Thank you to Wyatt and British Swim School for joining us and helping educate our community on such an important topic. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts! 🔗 Learn more about British Swim School: https://britishswimschool.com/central-okc-norman/ [https://britishswimschool.com/central-okc-norman/] Be sure to share this episode with another family who could benefit from these important swim safety tips this summer!

Communication Is a Human Right

Communication is a human right, and on today’s episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we’re taking a closer look at the upcoming Inclusive Communication Conference. We’re joined by the individuals helping bring this meaningful event to life as we discuss the inspiration behind the conference, the importance of accessible and inclusive communication, and how creating spaces where everyone has a voice can make a lasting impact. Throughout this episode, we dive into how communication goes far beyond spoken words and why access to communication should be available to everyone. We also discuss who the conference is designed for, what attendees can expect throughout the event, and why these conversations are important for families, educators, professionals, self-advocates, and community members alike. The Inclusive Communication Conference is focused on building awareness, sharing resources, and providing practical tools that support inclusive learning and communication practices. This event creates opportunities to connect, learn from others, and continue growing a more inclusive community where every voice matters. Interested in attending? Learn more and register here: dsaco.org/icc And make sure you listen all the way through this episode because there’s a special discount code hidden in the podcast that you won’t want to miss!

Championing Inclusion with Grace Simpson | Special Olympics

In this episode, we sit down with Grace Simpson from Special Olympics to talk about the power of inclusion, advocacy, and community. We dive into what Down syndrome really means, break down common misconceptions, and highlight how programs like Special Olympics are creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to thrive. What You’ll Learn * What Special Olympics is and why it matters * A simple, real-life understanding of Down syndrome * Common myths vs. reality * The impact of sports on confidence, connection, and growth * Advice for families navigating a Down syndrome diagnosis * Ways you can support and advocate in your community Get Involved: Down Syndrome Festival & 5K Join us for one of the most impactful events of the year — a day of celebration, awareness, and community. Register, donate, or learn more here: https://dsfestivaland5k.com [https://dsfestivaland5k.com] Ways to participate: * Run the 5K * Join the Awareness Walk * Create a team with friends, family, or coworkers * Stay for the festival full of music, food, and activities Why This Matters Inclusion is essential. This episode is a reminder that every individual deserves to be seen, valued, and given opportunities to succeed. Follow along, share this episode, and continue supporting the Down syndrome community through awareness, education, and action.

Behind the Scenes With Our Producer!

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how DSACO: Up for Discussion comes to life. In this special episode, Executive Director Sarah Soell sits down with the podcast’s producer, Adie, to talk about everything that goes into creating each episode—from brainstorming ideas to hitting publish. Listeners will learn what a podcast producer actually does, how episodes are planned and recorded, and what it takes to keep each conversation aligned with DSACO’s mission. Adie also shares favorite moments, challenges, and what makes this podcast so meaningful to be a part of. This episode is perfect for anyone curious about podcast production, storytelling, and the work that happens behind the mic. In This Episode: * What a podcast producer does behind the scenes * The step-by-step process of creating an episode * How topics and guests are selected * What recording days really look like * Challenges and favorite moments from producing * How the podcast supports DSACO’s mission Special Feature: * Learn how you or your business can support the podcast through sponsorship opportunities. Email us at info@dsaco.org Get Involved: Join us for the DSACO Cup Golf Tournament on May 4, 2026, at Rose Creek Golf Club! Register or become a sponsor: dsaco.org/golf [http://dsaco.org/golf] Keep advocating, keep empowering, and keep educating!