Ep. 53 - The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners and the YMCA
Release Date: 12/04/2024
Ep. 66 Drowning is Preventable: The Y’s Call to Action
(Y) Connect
Please note that this episode contains mentions of fatal drownings. Listen with care. Today, we’re diving into one of the most vital—and lifesaving—initiatives at the Y: water safety. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children, and the Y is on a mission to change that. Joining us today are three passionate changemakers who are helping the Y turn the tide on drowning prevention: Megan Benvenuto, Group Vice President and Executive Director of the Northwest Cobb Family YMCA who oversees the YMCA’s association-wide aquatics program; Shannon Atty,...
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Ep. 65 - Fan Favorite: A Multi-Generational Dive into Swim Lessons
(Y) Connect
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...
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Ep. 64 - From Soccer Fields to Storytelling - Meet the Y’s CMO
(Y) Connect
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...
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Ep. 63 - The Y’s Commitment to Health Equity with Dr. Terri McFadden
(Y) Connect
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...
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Ep. 62 - Martha Haythorn Is Redefining Advocacy and Community
(Y) Connect
What does it look like when people with developmental disabilities lead the way in advocacy, community programming, and public policy? On this episode of the (Y) Connect podcast, hosts Zarinah, Robert, and Allison are joined by Martha Haythorn, a powerful voice for disability advocacy and a champion of inclusion at the YMCA. From organizing local programs to speaking on national stages, Martha shares her journey, leadership, and how she’s helping build a future where everyone belongs. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Introduction (04:28) Martha shares how she became acquainted...
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Ep. 61 - Planting Purpose: How the Y Cultivates Community
(Y) Connect
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...
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ENCORE: Diving in with the Mermaids at the Y
(Y) Connect
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...
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Ep. 60 - Omari Crawford: Leading the Charge for Youth Sports & the Y
(Y) Connect
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...
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Ep. 59 - Kendall Rae Johnson: Georgia’s Youngest Farmer
(Y) Connect
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...
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Ep. 58 - Growing the Y’s Reach through Early Learning
(Y) Connect
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta's commitment to early learning, exemplified through its Head Start programs, significantly impacts children and families in the community. Dr. Andria McMichael, a dedicated leader within the organization, shares her excitement about the recent expansion of these programs, designed to provide children with the foundation they need to succeed. From inspiring personal stories, like a nonverbal child beginning to speak after just days in the program, to the call for volunteers and community partnerships, the YMCA is creating lasting community connections that nurture both...
info_outlineToday on (Y) Connect, we're thrilled to highlight the story of a community rooted in strength, endurance, and an unwavering commitment to health and wellness. Joining us is Monte Fowler, a veteran member of the South Fulton Running Partners—the nation's oldest Black recreation running group. For decades, this remarkable group has shared a deep connection with the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA, fostering a space where individuals unite to run and uplift one another. Monte brings a unique perspective as someone who grew up at the Y served on the YMCA board, and has dedicated years to this running community.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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[3:42] Monte’ shares how he began his journey at the Y
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[6:21] Why Monte’ joined the South Fulton Running Partners and its legacy
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[11:05] How the Y has played a supporting role to the Partners and the community and the Y’s contribution to wellness
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[18:37] Why the Y is unique to community wellness
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[20:24] Advice to anyone interested in joining the Running Partners and what to expect
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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Running offers more than physical fitness—it fosters lifelong health, builds discipline, and creates a supportive community. By embracing running, individuals can defy age-related health declines, find mentorship, and discover the "fountain of youth" through sweat, commitment, and connection
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The South Fulton Running Partners is a community of role models who embody service, mentorship, and giving back. Leaders like Bob Holmes and William and Lou Stanley showcase the impact of discipline and community, offering life-changing mentorship and inspiring purpose and integrity
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The YMCA in Atlanta is more than a gym—it’s a pillar of holistic community building, nurturing physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. The running partners have exemplified this ethos for over four decades, forming a family bound by shared values. The Y teaches fitness, fosters lifelong relationships, and supports members through every stage of life. It’s a place to grow, thrive, and find a true community
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BIOGRAPHY:
Monte’ Fowler is a long-standing Y and South Fulton Running Partners member and a seasoned professional with 23+ years in product management, technology, and consulting. As a Product Manager at Cox Communications, he oversees a $300M+ product portfolio and has launched innovative tools, earning the 2021 Synergy Award and multiple PIL awards.
Dedicated to community service, Monte’ has served on boards for Cascade Elementary, Beecher Hills Elementary, the Center for Working Families, and the YMCA. He has also directed the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia’s largest fundraiser.
Monte’ holds an Executive MBA from Georgia Tech, a B.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, and certifications in AI and Lean Six Sigma. His expertise in technology and passion for service make him an outstanding podcast guest.