(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_outlineOn 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:
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[4:48] Kendall’s inspiration for farming
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[9:59] Kendall shares a tour of her garden
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[15:01] Discussion of the catering company and Kendall’s favorite recipes
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[19:32] What was the inspiration for selling the produce, and the farm’s operation
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[24:22] Defining hydroponics and the inspiration behind the book I’m Growing Places
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[29:01] Kendall advises kids who may want to farm and explains her future plans
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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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.
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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.
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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:
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.