(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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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_outlineY Connect is thrilled to welcome Gene Kansas—a cultural developer, historic preservationist, and now the author of the powerful new book, Civil Sights: Sweet Auburn, A Journey Through Atlanta’s National Treasure.
After meeting Gene a few months ago, we quickly realized there’s a tremendous connection between the work he’s been doing through Constellations in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, the vision of his book, and the YMCA’s mission to empower youth and build stronger communities. Civil Sights isn’t just a history of Sweet Auburn—it’s a call to action to preserve the places and stories that have shaped movements and lives, including here in Atlanta.
Today, we’ll dive into the inspiring stories in Civil Sights, explore the YMCA’s historic ties to Sweet Auburn, and discuss how we can all contribute to preserving history while creating opportunities for the future. Gene, welcome to Y Connect! We're so excited to have you here.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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[5:21] Sweet Auburn's historical significance
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[10:53] The YMCA's role in Sweet Auburn
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[14:13] Gene reads an excerpt from his book
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[17:23] Why preservation goes beyond buildings
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[24:51] The unsung heroes of Sweet Auburn
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[31:00] Getting involved in historical preservation
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[36:31] Details of Gene's book launch events in February
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[38:58] Gene sheds insight on the importance of learning from history
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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The Butler Street YMCA's historical significance in Sweet Auburn is profound, serving as a cornerstone for black commerce and culture. It was a hub where influential leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Maynard Jackson Jr. gathered, fostering civic engagement and social change. This legacy underscores the YMCA's pivotal role in shaping community dynamics and advancing civil rights.
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Preservation extends beyond saving buildings; it's about safeguarding stories and traditions. Through storytelling, we connect with history, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform our future. This approach to preservation emphasizes the importance of community narratives, highlighting unsung heroes and fostering a deeper understanding of cultural heritage.
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Gene’s vision for Sweet Auburn involves a blend of historic preservation and contemporary development. By integrating new, responsible projects with the rich history of the area, we can create vibrant, engaging spaces that honor the past while embracing the future. This balance is crucial for maintaining the neighborhood's cultural significance and ensuring its continued relevance.
RESOURCE LINKS:
Civil Sights: Sweet Auburn, A Journey Through Atlanta’s National Treasure
BIO:
Inspired by a vibrant, culturally rich upbringing in New Orleans, Gene Kansas has established himself as a visionary champion of historic preservation, adaptive reuse, community building, and storytelling through the built environment. Each Gene Kansas project masterfully blends an appreciation of culture and history with creative, responsible, and vital refashioning, bringing new relevance to space and how it is used and enjoyed. An award-winning historic preservationist and real estate developer, Gene leads with passion and purpose, combining bold, forward-thinking vision with a mindset of giving back. At Gene Kansas | Commercial Real Estate, Gene and team focus on building up history, not over it. Gene is also Founder of Constellations, a thoughtful and supportive, culturally based workspace in Atlanta's historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood focused on civic and social difference-making. Gene is the author of Civil Sights (University of Georgia Press, February 2025), and has been published in the AJC, Atlanta Magazine, Atlanta Business Chronicle, and numerous other publications. As creator and host of award-winning Sidewalk Radio, Gene explored life in the modern city through the lens of history and the context of community on Atlanta's AM 1690 "Voice of the Arts."