A Little Something Extra

In this inspiring and joy-filled episode, our hosts Nancy Gianni, GiGi Gianni, and Franco Gianni come together to kick off Down Syndrome Awareness Month—or as we like to call it, Down Syndrome Acceptance Month. It’s a powerful conversation about language, leadership, love, and how each of us can help create a more inclusive world.  From GiGi’s unforgettable speech at the United Nations to the incredible value people with Down syndrome bring to the table, this episode is packed with powerful moments, laughter, and practical ways we can all champion inclusion...not just in October, but year-round.   You’ll hear about:   Why we say Acceptance Month instead of Awareness Month...and why that language shift matters   GiGi’s leadership journey and the impact of her speeches   Corporate responsibility and how companies can help spread the message   The #1 piece of advice: “Just roll with it”   Simple ways you can spread love and acceptance this month  Whether you're new to the world of Down syndrome or a longtime supporter, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that true inclusion starts with introduction, connection, and a whole lot of love. Because this month, and every month, we all have the power to make a difference. Let's do better. Let's be better. And let’s celebrate all the amazing things that come with a little something extra.  Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra 

In this uplifting and joy-filled episode, we sit down with Nate Simon, the CEO and co-founder of 21 Pineapples, and his incredible mom, Holly Simon, the powerhouse advocate behind the brand’s heart and soul. Nate, who was born with Down syndrome, is not only the face of 21 Pineapples, but he is also the reason it exists: to spread love, laughter, and a powerful message of inclusion. With over 100 Special Olympics gold medals, appearances at LA Fashion Week, and a rising career as a comedian and model, Nate is breaking barriers...and doing it all with style. Together, he and Holly share the behind-the-scenes story of building a brand that champions people with disabilities — and let’s just say, Nate doesn’t hold back. From outing his mom’s sleepwalking adventures to dropping a few hilarious “insider” stories, Holly takes it all like a champ (and may or may not be plotting revenge in a future episode). You’ll hear about: The moment that sparked the idea for 21 Pineapples Shirt Co Nate’s love of Hawaiian shirts and what they represent His passion for business and entrepreneurship from a young age The movie he stars in and his experience stepping into acting Whether you’re a parent, advocate, entrepreneur, or just someone who believes in the power of joy, this episode isn’t only hilarious, but it’s reminder that every person has something extra to give. Check out more at 21pineapples.com

Back to school = back to socks! In this heartwarming and entrepreneurial episode, we sit down with the dynamic father-son duo behind John’s Crazy Socks, Mark and John Cronin!  Mark shares his personal journey as a father to John, who has Down syndrome, and how their search for meaningful opportunities sparked something bigger than either of them could’ve imagined. What started with hand-delivering colorful socks door-to-door turned into one of the most beloved, and impactful, sock companies in the world.  In this episode, you’ll hear about:  Their humble beginnings and big dreams  The drive to create real, meaningful careers for people with intellectual disabilities  How John’s Crazy Socks grew into a global movement for inclusion  What it really means to follow your passion and bring others along for the ride  This is a story of love, hustle, and purpose. One that proves when we see potential where others don’t, we all win.  Whether you're gearing up for a new school year, a change in season, or just looking for a boost of inspiration, this episode reminds us all to lead with kindness, chase big dreams, and never underestimate what’s possible!  Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra   

This week we are wrapping up with our Pop-Up Podcast! Live from the 2025 NDSC Conference in Dallas, we were thrilled to talk with Dr. Patricia Tice! Dr. Patricia Tice is a transportation expert, innovator, and advocate for independence in the disability community.  She is the founder of Brick City Lab, where she’s reimagining transportation education for individuals with disabilities using creative tools like LEGO-inspired systems, real-world simulations, and an empowering online course. Her approach blends practical planning with deep compassion, helping individuals not only get from point A to B...but do so confidently, safely, and independently.  In this episode, you’ll get to hear about:  The importance of Independence   The creative ways Brick City Lab teaches travel skills through play, planning, and real-life scenarios  How a $50 nail salon trip became a powerful learning moment  The importance of planning for life’s unpredictability: dead phones, missed buses, and everything in between  Why independence for individuals with disabilities creates independence for the families, too  Tune into this episode for a heartfelt, and deeply insightful conversation that will change how you think about independence and public transportation.  Learn more about Brick City Labs: brickcitylab.com   Watch the video version of this episode: https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra 

We’re back with another Pop-Up Podcast, live from the 2025 NDSC Conference in Dallas! This episode features two incredible guests you may recognize! With an unshakable sibling bond and a whole lot of heart, we are joined by Annika and Aaron Soderfelt.  Aaron is 24, loves country music, has got the jams, and has a playlist for every occasion (especially for “grump walks”). Annika is an occupational therapist, fierce advocate, and founder of NotAlwaysHappy.org, a mental health resource created to support the Down syndrome community.  In this episode, you’ll get to hear about:  Their favorite songs and artists   The story behind their infamous “grump walks” playlist  Aaron’s experiences flying solo and how he's crushing independence  Annika’s advice to siblings, her doctoral research, and why “love” is the foundation of it all   What it really means to grow up as siblings including the challenges and the power of showing up for one another  Tune into this episode for a heartfelt, hilarious, and refreshingly honest conversation about family, advocacy, and redefining what it means to live a full and meaningful life!  Watch the video version of this episode: https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra     

We’re back with another Pop-Up Podcast, live from the 2025 NDSC Conference in Dallas! This episode features two incredible guests who prove that anything is possible. Meet Sophia Kay Whitten and Grace Davis: two inspiring young women with amazing stories.  Sophia is a college student, a pre-fiancé, and an independent powerhouse. She’s also the inspiration behind the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. Grace, on the other hand, is a hard-working fashionista juggling multiple jobs and carrying on a proud family legacy in the Auburn school system.  In this episode, you’ll get to hear about:  Their college experiences: where they attend and what they love about it  Their work lives: where they are now and what their dream jobs look like  Their love lives: Sophia shares a surprise, and Grace opens about her long-term relationship and dreams for the future  Their interests: from foundations to pageants, these two stay busy and motivated  This episode is a powerful reminder that individuals with Down syndrome have unlimited potential. Whether it’s college, careers, or engagements, there’s no milestone they can’t achieve.  Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra   

In this special two-part episode of the Pop-Up Podcast, we’re live from the NDSC Conference in Dallas 2025 with two unforgettable guests who are showing the world what’s possible.  First up: Matthew Schwab: speaker, actor, advocate, and best friend of the podcast! He is back with huge updates. From moving into a new home with his fiancée Lucia to premiering his first feature film Horse Girls at the Tribeca Film Festival, Matthew is living his best life and bringing us along for the ride.  In Matthew’s segment, you’ll hear:  How engaged life is treating him  What it’s like cohabiting with his fiancée after 13 years of dating  Why his mom Michelle is to thank for jumpstarting his acting journey  The heart behind Horse Girls, a film about inclusion, grief, and… competitive hobby-horsing  What’s next in his advocacy business  Then: fan-favorite Kayla Kosmalski takes the mic! As the first person with Down syndrome to narrate a feature film about her own life, Kayla is rewriting the script on representation.  In Kayla’s segment, you’ll hear:  What it means to redefine what’s possible  Why The Able Movie is such a groundbreaking project  Her experience as Miss Teen USA Delaware  What her college life looks like for a communication major and cheerleader  Her advice for anyone chasing big dreams  Together, Matthew and Kayla remind us that passion, purpose, and persistence make anything possible. From the ballroom to the big screen, from dorm rooms to leadership stages, these two are not just making moves, they’re making history.  Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra 

In honor of this year’s NDSC Convention this weekend, we’re throwing it back to one of our favorite pop-up podcast moments recorded live at last year’s event!  In this special episode, we sit down with Cassandra Drake, a powerhouse mom, university professor at CSU Stanislaus, and passionate advocate who lives in Querétaro, Mexico. From a wild birth story to a bold family move inspired by GiGi’s Playhouse, Cassandra’s journey is filled with lots of heart and purpose.  Get ready for a real and raw conversation that covers:  The unforgettable birth story of Cassandra’s son   How she discovered he has Down syndrome  The twist of fate that led her to GiGi’s Playhouse  Why her family moved to Mexico and how free GiGi’s programs played a part  Her involvement in GiGi’s Educator Symposium and how it's changing classrooms for all kids  What GiGi’s Playhouse has meant to her family and community  Advocacy knows no borders, and Cassandra’s story is proof of that. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or just love stories that inspire meaningful change, this episode is a must-listen.  Sign up for GiGi's Educator Symposium here: https://gigisplayhouse.org/educator-symposium/   Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra 

It's MLB All Star Week... So we are bringing back one of our very first episodes! In this special episode, we sit down with Tom Ricketts, Executive Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, for an unforgettable conversation that brings heart, history, and a whole lot of team spirit to the mic!  As the 4th-ever episode of A Little Something Extra, this one hits it out of the park. We share how the Cubs' support of GiGi’s Playhouse has impacted both the team and the community, from memorable moments like GiGi singing the National Anthem at Wrigley Field, to the generous support from Cubs Cares.  In this episode, we explore:  How the Cubs are reimagining the “Day at the Ballpark” experience  The unique connection between sports and service  Tom’s favorite Cubs memories and players  The effects of COVID  And of course… a rousing rendition of Go Cubs Go!  Whether you're a lifelong Cubs fan, a champion of inclusion, or someone who just loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode will remind you why teamwork, on and off the field, makes all the difference.  Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra   

This isn’t just another episode- this is a wake-up call.  In our most passionate Host Talk yet, we confront a disturbing trend that’s gone viral: AI deepfakes of women impersonating individuals with Down syndrome—using that image to post suggestive, scandalous content.  Let that sink in.  This isn’t advocacy. This isn’t funny. And this absolutely isn’t okay.  In this raw, real conversation, we dive into:  What’s actually happening—and why it’s so dangerous  The exhausting fight to get this content taken down, and why it lives in a legal gray area  The deeper issue: when we let this slide, we send the message that mocking disability is entertainment  What The Take It Down Act could mean for situations like this  Why we need your voice now more than ever  We need this in front of the right people.  We need a louder voice to help us fight back.  And we need more creators like Joey Swoll to address this issue.  This episode is a call to action. If you care about inclusion, respect, and protecting the dignity of people with Down syndrome—this is your moment to stand with us. Tune in now and help us make a real change.   Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra