In this heartwarming episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by United Airlines Captain Tait Wasser to reflect on the powerful impact of The Arc’s Wings for All event held on August 16, 2025, at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
Captain Tait shares what it was like to participate in this inclusive airport rehearsal program designed for individuals with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. From behind-the-scenes moments to one young passenger’s transformative journey from fear to flying — this episode showcases how partnerships like United’s Bridge Disability Business Resource Group are helping make air travel more inclusive.
Together, we dive into what inclusion means in the skies, the training and empathy required to support all travelers, and how we can all play a role in making the world more accessible.
🛫 You’ll hear:
What Wings for All is and why it matters

How Captain Tait learned to better support travelers with IDD

Favorite memories and emotional moments from the ORD event

Why inclusion in air travel — and beyond — is everyone’s responsibility

💡 Be inspired. Take action. Make inclusion real.

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Learn more about The Arc's Wings for All event: https://thearc.org/our-initiatives/travel/

Watch on Instagram Daniel's Instagram Reel highlight video from our ORD Wings for All event: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNbzSbVttCC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MXB1aml0eXc4aGgweQ==

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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: https://specialchronicles.com/BittyandBeausCoffee

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About the Podcast Host:
Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel 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 HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/DanielSmrokowski