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A Little Something Extra is hosted by GiGi Gianni, the namesake of GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Centers, her brother Franco and her mom, Nancy. With 59 GiGi’s Playhouse locations across the country and Mexico they spread a global message of acceptance for all. GiGi’s offers free programs and celebrates everybody’s Little Something Extra! This podcast invites others to share their Little Something Extra in hopes of inspiring people to find theirs!!
Episodes

7 days ago
7 days ago
In honor of Mother’s Day, we’re sharing one of our most inspiring and heartfelt episodes featuring an incredible mom, Jennifer Hogan Jones, known to many as “@my.beautiful.ds.journey”. This Mother’s Day, we honor all mothers—especially those who turn challenges into courage and shine light into the world through their unconditional love. In this episode, Jennifer opens up about her experience receiving a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis for her son, Hudson (1 of 4 kids), and the emotional road that followed. Jennifer uses her platform to celebrate Hudson and shift perceptions around Down syndrome, reminding us of the unexpected beauty that both life and motherhood bring. Tune in to hear Jennifer’s story and be reminded of the strength and grace at the heart of motherhood!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday May 01, 2025
S4 E7: A Little Something Extra with Misty Coy Snyder
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
This week, we’re excited to welcome Misty Coy Snyder — a passionate advocate for individuals with Down syndrome and a devoted volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse New York City. Misty wears many hats: she’s an actor, singer, writer, entrepreneur, and creator behind Happiness is Down Syndrome, a platform dedicated to sharing uplifting stories and supporting families on similar paths. In this episode, Misty opens up about the powerful lessons she’s learned from her son Jed, we get a sneak peak of her heartfelt song “found my way,” she shares the mission behind Happiness is Down Syndrome, and talks about her inspiring presentation at the United Nations — plus so much more. Don’t miss it!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Monday Apr 28, 2025
THROWBACK EXCLUSIVE A Little Something Extra with Tanner Smith
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Another throwback! We’re taking it back to one of our most memorable and heartwarming episodes of A Little Something Extra. In this special throwback, we’re joined by the incredible Tanner Smith—one of the standout stars of Season 2—and his equally amazing mom, Nicci. If you’ve seen the show, you’ll understand why Tanner captured so many hearts. His vibrant personality, unshakable optimism, and infectious smile made him an instant fan favorite. This episode takes you far beyond what you saw on screen. Together, Nicci and Tanner open up about Tanner’s experience navigating the dating world, his life at Clemson LIFE, what it’s been like growing up with autism, and the transition into adulthood. Nicci shares her journey of raising a son on the spectrum and brings a powerful perspective as Tanner’s mom. Whether you're a fan of the show or new to Tanner’s story, this conversation is one you won't want to miss!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday Apr 24, 2025
THROWBACK EXCLUSIVE A Little Something Extra with Connor Tomlinson
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
This week we’re throwing it back—because there’s more love to celebrate! With Season 3 of Love on the Spectrum newly released and bringing some fresh and unexpected turns, we thought it was the perfect time to revisit one of our favorite guests from past seasons: Connor Tomlinson. In this episode, we’re joined by Connor’s mom, Lise, and his brother, Ben. We dive into Connor’s journey on the show, how it transformed his life overnight, and the unique way he views the world—including his belief that autism is “the next step in human evolution.” Lise and Ben share what it was like growing up in a household shaped by Connor’s perspective, challenges, and humor. Plus, we get to hear about Connor’s latest interests and perspectives on love!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
S4 E6: A Little Something Extra with Erin Merryn
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
We are so thrilled to welcome Erin Merryn to the show! Erin is widely recognized for her activism and for pushing for legislative changes aimed at protecting children from abuse. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, she created Erin’s Law which requires that all public schools in each state implement a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program. Not only is she making amazing changes in the world, but she is also related to one of GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman families! In this episode, she shares her personal story, the surprising challenges she faces getting the law passed, how she overcame the doubts from her educators, and the impactful stories from kids and adults who found the courage to speak up. Beyond her advocacy, we get to know Erin as a person, including her hobbies, her cat, and what she hopes to share with the world!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday Apr 10, 2025
S4 E5: A Little Something Extra with Kennith Allen Thomas
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
In this week’s episode, we have the privilege of speaking with the incredible Kennith Allen Thomas!! Known as Kenny Clutch on social media, Kenny is a motivational speaker, leadership coach, and dedicated family man. Kenny shares his inspiring journey, including the emotional story of his son Christian’s birth and the discovery of his cancer diagnosis. He talks about what it truly means to "show up and show out" in life, how he met his wife, and shares funny and heartwarming stories about his kids. Along the way, Kenny offers valuable motivational advice, discussing how to follow your calling and pursue a life of purpose. His passion, wisdom, and humor make this an unforgettable conversation. Don’t miss out on hearing Kenny’s powerful story and the lessons he’s learned along the way!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday Apr 03, 2025
S4 E4: A Little Something Extra with Nora Michaelis
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
This week on A Little Something Extra, we’re thrilled to welcome the amazing Nora Michaelis! In this episode, we dive into Nora’s journey as the founder of bEquals, explore her many hobbies, and hear about the impactful lessons she’s learned—all at just 17 years old! Get ready to learn about bEquals and the powerful impact it’s having, not only on those in the program but also on Nora herself. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, passion, and insight into how Nora’s vision is creating lasting change. This episode is sure to leave you inspired and motivated to make a difference!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday Mar 27, 2025
S4 E3: A Little Something Extra with Lauren Costabile
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Lauren Costabile, the Founder and Executive Director of Hearts of Joy International. This nonprofit organization provides life-saving heart surgeries for children with Down syndrome around the world, while also offering educational resources, counseling, and advocacy for their families. Prior to launching Hearts of Joy International, Lauren was a volunteer at GiGi's Playhouse in New York! In this episode, we dive into Lauren’s journey, from her background and the motivations that led to the creation of Hearts of Joy International, to the impactful work the organization is doing for children and families worldwide. Tune in today to hear more about Lauren, discussing her hobbies, hearing GiGi’s favorite karaoke go-to songs, and learning the many ways people can get involved with Hearts of Joy International!
Watch the video version of this episode https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Monday Mar 24, 2025
S4 E2: A Little Something Extra with The Valentine Brothers (Zachary’s cut)
Monday Mar 24, 2025
Monday Mar 24, 2025
We couldn’t let the conversation end just yet, so we’re back with the Valentine Brothers! In this extended version of episode 2, it’s the Zach show! We play all his favorite games, do his challenges, and learn all about the brothers! Tune in for a fun-filled ride.
Watch the video version of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra

Thursday Mar 20, 2025
S4 E2: A Little Something Extra with Patrick, Zachary, and Linda Valentine
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
We're thrilled to welcome The Valentine Brothers to A Little Something Extra! This episode is extra special, featuring both the brothers and a special guest appearance from their mom! We dive deep into the world of social media, explore what sparked the creation of The Valentine Brothers, and hear all about their #GenerationG Hero Award win at GiGi’s Playhouse National ‘i have a voice’ Gala. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming and exciting episode! This one goes out to all the amazing siblings out there helping make a better world for their brothers and sisters! We hope you love it as much as we do!! Stay tuned for part 2 of this episode, as Zach has much more to bring to the show!
Watch the video version of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@alittlesomethingextra