We’re back with a fan favorite episode of the Y Connect Podcast! For more than a century, the Y has taught children and adults how to swim. And while the Y is the largest provider of swim lessons in the country, there are countless people who never learn this critical skill. Highlighting the importance of it’s never too late to learn, we have the special privilege of introducing you to an entire family that recently took the swim lesson plunge together.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (03:36) Jax shares how the multi-generational family swim lesson came together

• (05:01) Ayanna explains how she and her boys and mother got involved in swim lessons as a family

• (06:27) Gwendolyn, the grandmother, discusses how comfortable she became, and Jennifer talks about how she became an instructor

• (09:26) The boys discuss their impressions of taking swim lessons along with their mom and grandmother, and they discuss funny moments during their swim lessons

• (13:26) Discussion of lessons learned and great memories made

• (16:08) Ayanna advises other multi-generational families. Ryan and Nicholas discuss what they would tell their friends about taking swim lessons with their family

• (19:42) Each guest shares their Pathway to the (Y)

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Y encourages families to take swim lessons regardless of age.

• Ayanna’s family proves that this new method of teaching families how to swim simultaneously, works

• Ayanna’s sons have confessed that taking swimming lessons with their family, although they weren’t excited about it in the beginning, has turned out to be very fun for them.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

Strong 4 Life - Website

BIOGRAPHY: Jax Ruppert

With a lifelong commitment to the YMCA, Jax began his journey at 16 as a lifeguard, progressing to roles as a swim instructor and swim team coach. Passionate about teaching and inspiring others, he transitioned into the role of Aquatics Director. His focus is on training and developing his staff to excel and taking immense pride in their growth and achievements. Committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, Jax spearheads drowning prevention programs, starting with educating parents on the critical importance of water safety.

Today on (Y) Connect, we’re sitting down with someone who’s no stranger to the YMCA—James Reynolds, our Chief Marketing Officer. James grew up at the Decatur Y, now coaches his daughters’ soccer team at the Cowart Family Y, and returned to the organization a little over a year ago in a big way. With a career that’s taken him around the world—from the Atlanta Braves to brands like Popeyes, Moe's & Tropical Smoothie—James brings a unique mix of professional expertise and personal connection to the Y. We’re excited to hear how he’s thinking about storytelling, brand, and what it means to come full circle.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (03:33) James describes his connection to the YMCA

• (07:16) Adapting the brand to serve community needs, drawing from corporate experience

• (13:42) How storytelling elevates the Y’s community impact

• (16:40) The diverse programs, like Head Start and sports, positioning the Y as a place for community connections

• (21:30) James explains how authentic storytelling and community connection help the YMCA stand out from the heavy advertising noise

• (22:35) James describes the YMCA’s impact as measurable through storytelling and touchpoints

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Y makes an impact on the community through storytelling. It highlights diverse programs to showcase community impact and expand reach in local areas. Authentic storytelling enables the Y to stand out from competitors despite heavy advertising noise.

• The Y tailors its brand to meet unique community needs, ensuring relevance and accessibility.

• The YMCA creates an immeasurable impact through over 3 million annual interactions, ranging from brief moments like a single camp day to transformative, life-changing experiences that shape individuals and communities for years.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY:

As the YMCA of Metro Atlanta's chief marketing officer, James Reynolds oversees the Marketing and Communications team’s efforts, including revenue generation, traditional and digital media, brand standards, public relations, social media, and internal communications. Before joining the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, James was Vice President, Marketing for GoTo Foods International (formerly Focus Brands International), overseeing 2,000 locations for six brands in 60 countries. His work travels took him to South Korea, Japan, Costa Rica, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Before joining GoTo Foods International, James held various marketing, product innovation, and strategy roles with Tropical Smoothie Café, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, American Golf Corporation, and the Atlanta Braves Baseball Club. James holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Florida State University and has continuing education certificates in Digital Advertising from the University of Illinois and Social Media from Northwestern. James grew up in Decatur, Georgia, and spent many days and nights playing basketball at the Decatur Family Y. James lives in Brookhaven with his wife and two daughters, both of whom play youth soccer at Cowart Family Y, where James also volunteers his time as a coach.

Keywords:

Y, YMCA, Community, Storytelling, Brand Adaptation, Authentic Connections, Mission-Driven, Community Engagement, Program Diversity, Head Start, Wellness Programs, Youth Sports, Volunteer Opportunities, Immeasurable Impact, Atlanta Communities, Marketing Strategies, Personal Connections, Decatur Y, Soccer, Soccer Coach, Cowart Family Y, Personal Connections, Y’s community impact, accessibility, Decatur, Georgia, Podcast

How can we create a healthier future for kids? Dr. Terri McFadden, a pediatrician, professor, and passionate advocate for children’s healthcare and literacy in Georgia, joins hosts Zarinah, Robert, and Allison. This episode of the Y Connect podcast dives into Dr. McFadden’s journey to pediatrics, the power of partnering with families to achieve health equity, and the vital role of literacy in child development. Dr. McFadden shares practical steps for water safety and the importance of culturally sensitive care, emphasizing community collaboration, addressing social challenges, and breaking generational health barriers.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction

• (03:16) What inspired Dr. McFadden to become a pediatrician

• (04:12) How do you build real health equity for kids and partner with the family

• (08:03) Dr. McFadden discusses the four pillars of Equity and Child and Adolescent Health and discusses how literacy impacts a child’s overall well-being

• (14:52) Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory Healthcare’s Nurse Navigator program

• (20:53) Discussion of challenges faced by different cultures

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Health equity requires addressing children's and parents' needs, tackling social determinants like housing and food insecurity, which drive 80% of health outcomes, to break generational adversity cycles.

• Effective care involves school-based health centers, comprehensive primary care, community program partnerships, and training providers to consider families' broader challenges beyond the exam room.

• Early literacy supports brain development and well-being while preventing injuries, especially drowning. Water-based activities demand accessible swim lessons, vigilant supervision, and community safety resources.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

PARTNERS for Equity in Child and Adolescent Health | Emory School of Medicine

Georgia Chapter American Academy of Pediatrics

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Terri McFadden is a passionate pediatrician and Emory University professor. She delivers compassionate care and shapes pediatric healthcare through education and leadership. As a former medical director at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and past president of the Georgia AAP, she mentors future doctors and advocates for injury prevention, literacy, and health equity. Through initiatives like Reach Out and Read and PARTNERS for Equity, Dr. McFadden champions comprehensive care for underserved communities.

Today on Y Connect, we’re joined by two remarkable Y leaders growing more than vegetables—they’re cultivating connection, health, and purpose. Collette Cosby, Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, is deeply committed to sustainability, food equity, and inclusive community service. Under her leadership, the Y’s Community Garden has blossomed into a powerful hub for education, access, and engagement.

Joining her is Elease Murray, the Y’s Wellness Director, who motivates others through faith, fitness, and wellness. Elease has been instrumental in bringing the garden and the Y’s new greenhouse bus to life, connecting health, nutrition, and movement for all ages. Collette and Elease are reimagining what community wellness can look like from the ground up.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:33) Collette shares what inspired the community garden

• (07:53) Discussion of the physical impact of gardening relating to health and wellness

• (11:24) The veggies that grow in the community garden, a bus that became a greenhouse bus, and garden dinners

• (21:11) Elease shares her weight loss journey, and Collette gives tips on starting a community garden

• (27:02) The community garden at the Y encourages volunteers on the second Saturday of the month

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The garden was born out of a desire to combat food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide accessible, healthy food. More than just a food source, it was designed to be an educational tool—teaching community members how to grow their food and understand where it comes from, reinforcing the idea of “teach a man to fish.”

• Beyond providing nourishment, the garden has become a space for physical activity, mental wellness, and community bonding. It brings people together—from volunteers and local businesses to kids and families—creating a shared sense of purpose and grounding through nature and collective effort.

• The Y has intentionally made the garden accessible, even for those intimidated by gardening. Community garden assistants offer guidance, and activities like sunflower harvesting and sensory gardens engage people of all ages and skill levels, helping them discover joy and confidence in growing.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHIES::

Collette Cosby is the Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, where she leads with a passion for community engagement, sustainability, and inclusive service. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and program development, Collette has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including the YMCA Community Garden—an innovative project promoting food equity, education, and connection. Known for her servant leadership and strategic vision, she is committed to creating meaningful change at the local level. Today, she’ll share how the garden grew into a vital hub for learning and community.

Elease Murray has worked in the fitness industry since 2009, inspired by her love for God and her personal journey of losing and maintaining 100 pounds. She began her YMCA career in 2016 and was promoted to Wellness Director at the J.M. Tull Gwinnett YMCA in 2023, where she leads the Wellness Department and Community Garden. Elease is passionate about helping others find wholeness through faith, fitness, and education.

Today, we're thrilled to talk with two remarkable women who have dubbed themselves the Mermaids. From morning swims to community events, the Mermaids demonstrate how engagement, community, and belonging shape lifelong health and wellness. Get ready to laugh, enjoy, and discover how this group of swimmers makes every splash count, proving that age is just a number when you’re young at heart.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:08) Introduction of guests and description of The Mermaids
• (03:22) Chris describes what the Mermaids are to her
• (05:17) Carolyn shares how she was introduced to the Mermaids and refers to her friendships. Chris describes the activities they do at the Y
• (08:40) How the group was founded and how men and women participate. Most attendees are retired, and the Y is an excellent place to meet people
• (13:48) Chris and Carolyn describe a typical day at the Y
• (17:09) The camaraderie benefits mental health. The activity strengthens you physically
• (21:59) The guests tell how they volunteered at the Y, the programs and events that are upcoming and advice they would give to anyone who needs to stay active
• (25:30) The importance of welcoming people and learning their names, and the guests give prompts to individual Y employees
• (30:25) Carolyn and Chris talk about how they became aware of the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [3:23] The Mermaids provide more than water aerobics. It is a time when people can interact with each other and develop new friendships

• [7:29] Swimming is not a prerequisite for attending a Mermaids class. If you can stand in the water, you can participate

• [9:05] The Mermaids have men attend, and they are called Mermen and attend the monthly lunches with the women.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.

On this episode of Y Connect, the hosts welcome Omari Crawford, State Representative for Georgia’s 89th House District and East Lake Family Y Board member, who shares his deep-rooted connection to the YMCA and his passion for running. Omari reflects on how his early experiences with Y athletic programs shaped his commitment to fitness and mental well-being, drawing parallels between marathon training and the discipline needed in sports and life. He also discusses how the legislature addresses mental health for athletes, the valuable lessons the Y instills in youth, and how he prepares for races with a focus on consistency.. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on perseverance, balance, and the power of community at the Y!

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Intro

(03:15) Omari’s history of participation at YMCA athletic programs

(07:44) Legislature's approach to mental health for athletes

(10:32) Omari on marathons and what the Y teaches youth

(16:16) Preparing for races

(24:08) Omar’s journey of marathons and information on his next run

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Omari Crawford's experiences as a student athlete shaped his advocacy for mental health support in sports. He emphasizes athletes' challenges, such as performing under pressure while dealing with personal struggles. He has worked on legislation to support their well-being, which received strong bipartisan support.

• The YMCA played a significant role in Crawford's early development, from sports to community building. Now, as an adult, he remains actively involved, serving on the Eastlake YMCA board and advocating for the organization. His dedication extends to a personal goal of running half marathons across the country, aligning with the YMCA's mission of promoting health and community engagement.

• Omari Crawford shares how running has shaped his mental well-being since childhood. He emphasizes the power of consistency in long-distance running and challenges himself through disciplined habits.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Omari Crawford - Instagram

BIOGRAPHY:

Omari Crawford was raised in DeKalb County, Georgia and currently serves as the State Representative for Georgia’s 89th House District. After graduating from Southwest DeKalb High School, Omari attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) on a track and field scholarship. During his collegiate career, he was a member of the all-academic conference team for three consecutive years. Omari received his Bachelor of Science in political science and Master of Public Administration (MPA) from FAMU in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Omari earned his law degree and Master of Business Administration from North Carolina Central University in 2013. Omari serves on the East Lake Family YMCA boards and the MTS Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc. He is an active member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc., DeKalb Lawyers Association, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia—serving as the Grand Attorney and serves as a member of the Clark Atlanta University Athletic Director Advisory Council. Omari uses his athletic experiences as a former Georgia High School Association Track and Field Champion to mentor DeKalb County high school student-athletes. Omari participates in races and cycling events around the country in his spare time.

On this episode of Y Connect, the hosts are excited to welcome a young trailblazer in agriculture. At just nine years old, the youngest certified farmer, author and founder of Kendall Rae’s Green Heart, Kendall Rae, shares her inspiring journey. Alongside her mom Ursula, she discusses how her love for farming began, the variety of fruits and vegetables she grows in her front and back yards, and how her passion evolved into a business. She also breaks down hydroponics and shares the story behind her book, I’m Growing Places, which uses rhymes to teach the plant life cycle. This episode offers practical advice for kids interested in farming and a glimpse into the plans for expanding the farm and sharing knowledge through new projects.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [4:48] Kendall’s inspiration for farming

• [9:59] Kendall shares a tour of her garden

• [15:01] Discussion of the catering company and Kendall’s favorite recipes

• [19:32] What was the inspiration for selling the produce, and the farm’s operation

• [24:22] Defining hydroponics and the inspiration behind the book I’m Growing Places

• [29:01] Kendall advises kids who may want to farm and explains her future plans

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Creative storytelling can nurture a passion for farming. It allows young people to express their love for agriculture uniquely. Providing platforms for them to share their interests fosters innovation and engagement.

• It's important to start growing food and embrace the learning journey. Learning becomes an exciting adventure, and as you seek knowledge, you grow in skills and personally. Kendall’s passion for agriculture and business is thriving, proving that growth happens in more ways than one.

• Kendall and her family focus on expanding their farm while remaining committed to community engagement. They prioritize local, small-batch, and seasonal agriculture and offer workshops and farm visits to educate others.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

aGROWkulture - Website

I'm Growing Places - Book

Kendall Rae's Green Heart - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

At just nine years old, Kendall Rae Johnson is making history as the youngest certified farmer in the United States and a passionate advocate for urban agriculture, sustainability, and youth entrepreneurship. Inspired by her late great-grandmother’s wisdom to "put collard greens back in the dirt," Kendall started gardening on her family’s patio porch at three years old. What began as a small backyard garden has become a movement, inspiring young people nationwide to see farming as a pathway to business ownership,

sustainability, and community impact. As the USDA’s First Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, Kendall is now leading the USDA’s 1890 Land-Grant University Tour, educating students, educators, and local leaders on financial literacy, urban farming practices, and entrepreneurship in agriculture. Through this initiative, she is helping to bridge the gap between urban communities and agricultural opportunities, empowering the next generation of food innovators. Kendall’s work has gained national attention, with features on Good Morning America, Ellen, CNN, Nickelodeon News, and

Sesame Street. Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris have recognized her, and in 2023, the state of Georgia honored her with “Kendall Rae Johnson Day” on March 23rd. She is also the author of I’m Growing Places and creator of My Farm Biz, a youth curriculum designed to introduce kids to farming and entrepreneurship.