Special Chronicles Presents: ComEd EnergyForce Series

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Special Chronicles Presents: ComEd EnergyForce Series featuring energy and solar efficiency conversations with EnergyForce Ambassadors and ComEd staff. This series is produced in corporate partnership with the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program, a one-of-a-kind program that trains adults with developmental disabilities to serve as ambassadors for ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program. Listen by clicking PLAY or ApplePodcasts icons — available on any mobile device now to FOLLOW so you don’t miss a new episode!

  1. Aug 31

    Celebrating 15 Years of ComEd EnergyForce Program | EnergyForce S9:E4 | Ep.861

    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, Co-Founder of the EnergyForce Ambassador Program, Jessica Frantz, an original EnergyForce Ambassador, and Charlie Carpenter, a current EnergyForce Ambassador and musician from Misericordia. Together, they reflect on how the nation's first clean energy solutions education program led by people with disabilities has empowered individuals, educated communities, and created meaningful opportunities for employment, leadership, and inclusion. Learn how the program began, hear stories from the early years, discover how EnergyForce Ambassadors help customers save energy today, and celebrate the lasting impact of a program dedicated to Empowering Ability, Energizing Communities. Episode Highlights: The founding and growth of the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program Reflections from one of the program's original ambassadors What it's like to be an EnergyForce Ambassador today Energy-saving tips and customer education Charlie Carpenter's music career at Misericordia and passion for playing organ at church The importance of inclusion, employment, and community engagement for people with disabilities Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 07:00 Segment 1: Paula Conrad on Looking Back: How the Program Began and Grew 33:00 Segment 2: Jessica Frantz on Looking Back: An Original EnergyForce Ambassador’s Perspective 46:00 Segment 3: Charlie Carpenter on Today’s EnergyForce Ambassador Experience 57:00 Final Roundtable Questions Watch this full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hf--fU124C8 Episode 861 ShowNotes & Links: https://specialchronicles.com/podcast861 For show notes, resources, links mentioned in this episode and more ComEd EnergyForce podcast content is available at https://SpecialChronicles.com/EnergyForce Learn more about the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program at https://SpecialChronicles.com/ComEd Learn more about Misericordia mission and programs at https://Misericordia.com Subscribe on YouTube for more podcast episodes: http://youtube.com/specialchronicles Follow Special Chronicles on Socials Instagram: https://instagram.com/specialchronicles Facebook: https://facebook.com/specialchronicles LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/special-chronicles 🎙️⚡💡 #EnergyForce #Inclusion #DisabilityInclusion #SpecialChronicles #ComEd #EnergyEfficiency #Misericordia #EnergyForce15Years The post Celebrating 15 Years of ComEd EnergyForce Program | EnergyForce S9:E4 | Ep.861 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  2. May 25

    Electric Vehicles 101: Your Guide to a Cleaner, Smarter Future | EnergyForce Series S9:E3 | Ep.860

    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 future of clean transportation. Together, they break down how EVs work, why they matter, and the innovative ways ComEd is helping customers navigate EV adoption through education, accessibility, and customer‑focused programs. Kara shares insights on EV charging, cost savings, clean‑energy technology, and how disability‑led advocacy is shaping a more inclusive energy landscape. Whether you’re an EV owner, EV‑curious, or passionate about sustainability, this episode delivers practical knowledge and inspiring perspectives that illuminate the road ahead. Learn more more about ComEd’s Electric Vehicles (EVs) at: https://www.comed.com/EV Find full show notes for this episode at https://specialchronicles.com/podcast860 Follow Special Chronicles on social media: @SpecialChronicles 🔌Access more of our ComEd related content at https://SpecialChronicles.com/EnergyForce Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for updates and new episode releases at: https://specialchronicles.com/listen/pod/#subscribe The post Electric Vehicles 101: Your Guide to a Cleaner, Smarter Future | EnergyForce Series S9:E3 | Ep.860 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  3. Jan 26

    Trace Nardi – Best Buddies | EnergyForce Series S9:E2 | Ep.818

    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 of energy efficiency and inclusion, and highlights his active involvement in Best Buddies programs, including the Jobs Program and his position at O’Hare Airport. Together, Daniel and Trace explore how programs like ComEd’s EnergyForce and Best Buddies empower people with disabilities to gain confidence, develop professional skills, and make a meaningful impact in their communities. They also dive into the mission of Best Buddies, emphasizing connection, opportunity, and empowerment for people with and without disabilities.Tune in for a heartwarming and inspiring conversation about inclusion, advocacy, and making a difference. Subscribe to the Special Chronicles Podcast and learn more at: https://specialchronicles.com/podcast818 Follow Us on Socials: https://Instagram.com/SpecialChronicles https://Facebook.com/SpecialChronicles https://www.linkedin.com/company/special-chronicles/ https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 The post Trace Nardi – Best Buddies | EnergyForce Series S9:E2 | Ep.818 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  4. Jan 19

    Energy Savings 101 | EnergyForce Series S9:E1 | Ep.817

    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, 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 updated, engaging presentation designed to help you better understand how energy choices impact both your home and the planet. This episode covers: The basics of energy and solar savings Practical, easy-to-use energy efficiency tips Key insights into Electric Vehicles (EVs) A fun and interactive Energy Savings Quiz to test your knowledge Tune in to discover how small changes can make a big impact on your energy use, your wallet, and the environment—while supporting a more sustainable future for all. Subscribe to the Special Chronicles Podcast and learn more at: https://specialchronicles.com/podcast817 The post Energy Savings 101 | EnergyForce Series S9:E1 | Ep.817 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  5. 07/14/2025

    ComEd Education | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt5 | Ep.776

    In this powerful episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, we sit down with Jessica Rojas from ComEd to explore how the Powering Lives Community Center and other ComEd education programs are lighting the way for students, families, and future energy professionals. From interactive K-12 field trips to immersive college experiences and STEM scholarships, ComEd is building a brighter, more inclusive energy future. Jessica shares stories, insights, and opportunities that empower lives and communities across the region. 🗣️ Topics Covered: Powering Lives Community Center and its mission Hands-on STEM field trips for K–12 The “Our Energy, Our Future” interactive exhibit Internship, scholarship, and college prep programs How inclusion and equity are central to ComEd’s vision ShowNotes & Links: Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "EnergyForce" to hear educational lessons about energy and solar efficiency! Follow and Listen Now on https://SpecialChronicles.com/EnergyForce Watch Full Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/0b9i8XAJKs0?si=VN5B8IO7HB93G9Kt 🎧Follow and Listen to the Special Chronicles Podcast on SpecialChronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺LIke watching your podcasts? Visit https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=1LdygYBIuMJbTBkX to see full episodes on YouTube. 😀Support This Podcast: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Donate ➕Join SpecialChronicles+PLUS! Go to: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS for our Premium Pre Show with behind the scenes podcast chats, exclusive bonus content, and to help support the show. 🛒Visit our Merch Shop: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Send us an Email: https://SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Get Social with us: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting by Podbean: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio by StreamYard: https://SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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 . . . . . . 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 The post ComEd Education | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt5 | Ep.776 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  6. 06/30/2025

    ComEd Goats | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4 | Ep.774

    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kelvin Limbrick from ComEd to talk about the innovative and eco-friendly goat grazing program that’s helping manage vegetation under power lines in northern Illinois. With nearly three dozen goats on the job this summer, ComEd is leading the way in sustainability by using goats to clear brush and keep the power grid resilient in challenging terrains. Kelvin shares the story behind this unique initiative, explaining how goats are the perfect solution for rocky, steep areas where traditional methods would be difficult or unsafe. We dive into the "Goatternship" campaign, which introduces us to the goats with personalities like "Selena Goatmez" and "Great Goatsby" — adding some fun and lighthearted moments to the program’s impact. From the environmental benefits to community engagement and the goats’ "office" quirks, you’ll hear how these hardworking goats are not just a solution for vegetation management, but also a symbol of ComEd’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Join us for this fun and informative episode about one of the most unconventional and effective approaches to powering the grid! Key Topics Covered: - The role of goats in keeping the power grid reliable and reducing outages - Behind-the-scenes of the "Goatternship" campaign - The benefits of using goats in difficult-to-reach areas - How ComEd’s sustainable practices are shaping the future of energy management Don’t miss this fun conversation about the G.O.A.T. of vegetation management — literally!* Episode 774 ShowNotes & Links: Watch Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wSgSWBiF6Uw Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "EnergyForce" to hear educational lessons about energy and solar efficiency! Follow and Listen Now on https://SpecialChronicles.com/EnergyForce ShowNotes & Links: 🎧Click to Follow and Listen on SpecialChronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Click to Subscribe and Watch on YouTube: https://SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Support This Podcast: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Join SpecialChronicles+PLUS! Go to: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS for our Premium Pre Show with behind the scenes podcast chats, exclusive bonus content, and to help support the show. 🛒Visit our Merch Shop: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Send us an Email: https://SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Get Social with us: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting by Podbean: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio by StreamYard: https://SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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 . . . . . . 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 The post ComEd Goats | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4 | Ep.774 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  7. 06/23/2025

    Celebrate Earth Day | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt3 | Ep.773

    On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kelvin Limbrick, ComEd Vegetation Management Sr. Program Manager to discuss important environmental topics, including their vegetation management practices, the role of brush control, and their sustainability efforts in celebration of Earth Day.   Key Topics: - Vegetation Management: Kelvin shares insights into why vegetation management is critical for maintaining ComEd’s infrastructure and the reliability of the power grid. He explains how ComEd prioritizes areas for vegetation management and the safety protocols in place to protect both the environment and electrical systems. - Brush and Environmental Impact: We dive into how ComEd manages brush and vegetation with minimal environmental impact, exploring initiatives and partnerships that help ensure responsible brush management. Kelvin also talks about the steps ComEd takes to protect wildlife and habitats during vegetation clearing efforts. - Earth Day and Sustainability: As Earth Day approaches, Kelvin highlights ComEd's sustainability initiatives and community engagement efforts. He discusses how ComEd balances the practical needs of energy infrastructure with their commitment to environmental responsibility and shares special events and educational initiatives for Earth Day. Tune in to learn more about ComEd’s efforts to promote sustainability, protect the environment, and ensure a reliable energy system for the communities they serve. Don't miss this enlightening conversation about how power companies can lead the way in sustainability and environmental stewardship! Episode 773 ShowNotes & Links: Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "EnergyForce" to hear educational lessons about energy and solar efficiency! Follow and Listen Now on https://SpecialChronicles.com/EnergyForce Learn more about trees at: https://ComEd.com/Trees ShowNotes & Links: 🎧Click to Follow and Listen on SpecialChronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/POD 📺Click to Subscribe and Watch on YouTube: https://SpecialChronicles.com/WATCH 😀Support This Podcast: SpecialChronicles.com/GIVE ➕Join SpecialChronicles+PLUS! Go to: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS for our Premium Pre Show with behind the scenes podcast chats, exclusive bonus content, and to help support the show. 🛒Visit our Merch Shop: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP 📧Send us an Email: https://SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT 📱Get Social with us: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SOCIALS 📧Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://SpecialChronicles.com/NEWSLETTER 🎤Speaking Engagements with Daniel: https://SpecialChronicles.com/SPEAKING 💡ComEd EnergyForce Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️United Bridge BRG Partner: https://SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 🎙️Podcast Hosting by Podbean: https://SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio by StreamYard: https://SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 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 . . . . . . 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 The post Celebrate Earth Day | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt3 | Ep.773 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

  8. 02/24/2025

    Conversation with Charlie Carpenter from Misericordia | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt2 | Ep.756

    On this rebroadcast episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt2: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Charlie Carpenter, a ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador from Misericordia to talk about Charlie's Challenges and Accomplishments because of his disability; Being an EnergyForce Ambassador, a Real Passion of Music, and we chat about the Arts and Cultures Programs and enjoy swimming at Misericordia. This episode originally aired on October 16, 2023 Episode 756 Show Notes & Links: 🎧 Listen on SpecialChronicles or Wherever You Get Podcasts https://specialchronicles.com/podcast756 📺Watch on YouTube: Visit https://youtube.com/@specialchronicles/podcasts to Watch Full Episodes. Learn more about Misericordia: https://www.misericordia.com This EnergyForce Series is brought to you by ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program: https://specialchronicles.com/comed Learn more about the ComEd EnergyForce Program: https://comed.com/EnergyForce Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to the past 7 seasons of our EnergyForce Series featuring educational lessons of energy and solar efficiency and conversations with ComEd EnergyForce Ambassadors: https://specialchronicles.com/EnergyForce Support This Podcast: Visit https://SpecialChronicles.com/Give to Donate Now and support the mission of Special Chronicles. ➕Want bonus content? Join Now at https://SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS to access our premium bonus content and support the podcast! 🛒Want our Merch? Visit https://SpecialChronicles.com/SHOP to shop our Disabled Voices Matter collection! 📱Follow Special Chronicles on Socials: Instagram: https://instagram.com/SpecialChronicles Facebook: https://facebook.com/SpecialChronicles LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/special-chronicles/ Newsletter: https://specialchronicles.com/newsletter 📱Follow Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski on Socials: Instagram: https://instagram.com/podmandan Facebook: https://facebook.com/podmandan LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/danielsmrokowski 📧Email: Send us a message at https://SpecialChronicles.com/CONTACT . . . . . 💡Partner: ComEd https://SpecialChronicles.com/COMED ✈️Partner: United Airlines https://SpecialChronicles.com/UNITED 📻Podcast Hosting: Podbean https://SpecialChronicles.com/PODBEAN 📡Recording Studio: StreamYard https://SpecialChronicles.com/STREAMYARD 🥇PSA: Sign the Inclusion Pledge at https://JoinTheRevolution.org 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 About the Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski is a well-known columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes over the last 15 years. In recognition of these many accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through the media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE: https://specialchronicles.com/podmandan The post Conversation with Charlie Carpenter from Misericordia | EnergyForce Series S8:Pt2 | Ep.756 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

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Special Chronicles Presents: ComEd EnergyForce Series featuring energy and solar efficiency conversations with EnergyForce Ambassadors and ComEd staff. This series is produced in corporate partnership with the ComEd EnergyForce Ambassador Program, a one-of-a-kind program that trains adults with developmental disabilities to serve as ambassadors for ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program. Listen by clicking PLAY or ApplePodcasts icons — available on any mobile device now to FOLLOW so you don’t miss a new episode!

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