Spelling fans, rejoice, for our long winter is over and #BeeWeek is finally here! On this episode of the Scripps National Spelling Bee Podcast, we have a truly exemplary guest from the highest chamber of our country’s legislature. US Senator from New Jersey Cory Booker takes time out of his busy schedule to offer encouragement to our young competitors and to discuss the power of words in his own life.

Before holding elected office, Senator Booker enjoyed a successful football career at Stanford followed by a Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford. It’s no surprise then, that a person with such competitive fire and intellectual prowess in their background would appreciate the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

In addition to the academic sphere, Senator Booker knows intimately that words carry great power. From a young age, Senator Booker was inspired by his parents to embody his best self and to elevate others with his words. We are honored to have Senator Cory Booker pass that wisdom on to our audience and all the young hopefuls at this year’s Bee.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee podcast is your home for features and fun on the Scripps National Spelling Bee. We’re on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at "SpellingBeePod." We love to hear from our listeners; email us anytime at [email protected].

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