Ep. 85 A Pause and What Comes Next

Ep. 85 A Pause and What Comes Next

At its heart, (Y) Connect has always been about connection. Over the past four years, hosts Allison Toller, Robert Wright, and Zarinah Winston have had the privilege of sharing conversations with Y members, volunteers, staff, partners, and community leaders whose stories reflect the power of belonging, service, and community. In this special episode, the three hosts come together one last time to reflect on the journey. They revisit favorite moments, discuss the conversations that have stayed with them, and share what they've learned about connection through the people and stories featured on the podcast. They also discuss why this feels like the right time for an intentional pause. As Allison steps into an expanded leadership role and Zarinah reflects on a sense of completion and readiness to pass the baton to future storytellers, the team shares why they're taking time to consider what the next chapter of storytelling at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta might look like. Most of all, this episode is a celebration of the guests who shared their stories, the listeners who joined the conversation, and the community that made (Y) Connect possible. While we're pressing pause for now, this is not goodbye. We invite you to revisit past episodes over the summer and join us again this fall as we explore what's next for (Y) Connect and continue finding new ways to share the stories that bring our Y community together. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How community storytelling inside a mission-driven organization like the YMCA can break down misconceptions and reveal the true depth of YMCA impact far beyond fitness and swimming programs. ✅ Why creating a storytelling platform rooted in authentic conversations builds real community belonging and inspires volunteer inspiration among staff and members alike. ✅ How leadership transitions and evolving roles within a nonprofit storytelling environment can prompt meaningful reflection on podcast legacy and the intentional decision to pause with purpose. Join the (Y) Connect Podcast [https://open.spotify.com/show/0by8QzV5w8Y7lShFGFZDuv?si=db5029c9ade946ec] to discover inspiring stories of transformation and wellness. Tune in for practical tips and community-driven insights on fitness transformation. Subscribe now to elevate your fitness journey! TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 A reflective farewell episode of (Y) Connect Podcast, marking a podcast pause after four years of community storytelling 02:10 The hosts share their most meaningful memories of participating in the podcast 07:13 Allison shares that the genesis for the podcast was, "I didn't know the YMCA did that." 09:36 Robert discusses the unforgettable YMCA Impact interview with the leader of the South African YMCA 10:56 Zarinah valued the stories, generating an emotional response 12:29 The team opens up about the leadership transition that prompted the podcast pause and what changed behind the scenes 19:43 The hosts reflect on how (Y) Connect provided a much-needed breath and renewed clarity about mission-driven work 27:30 The team looks ahead with hope, discussing the future of community storytelling and what the next chapter could hold in the fall KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Community storytelling is a powerful tool for nonprofits. The (Y) Connect Podcast consistently demonstrated that sharing real human stories dispels myths about what the YMCA does and deepens public understanding of its impact across Metro Atlanta and beyond. 💎A podcast pause does not mean failure. It can reflect a season of completion, intentional leadership transition, and a commitment to protecting the integrity and quality of a storytelling platform built on trust and purpose. 💎Authentic conversations create ripple effects. Hosts Zarinah and Robert both credited the podcast with increasing their own volunteer inspiration, expanding their sense of personal growth, and reshaping how they saw their roles within the organization. 💎The YMCA serves as a third place for countless people, from members managing Parkinson's disease to mothers visiting five branches weekly to children in early learning. This episode honored those connections as the heart of everything (Y) Connect was created to celebrate. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/] Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY] LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/] (Y) Connect: Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0by8QzV5w8Y7lShFGFZDuv?si=1f910ed438b6430c] (Y) Connect: Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/y-connect-podcast/id1654541987]

Fan Favorite: Connecting Family, Community, and Impact at the Y

Today, we're revisiting our conversation with someone who wears a couple of hats in her connection to the Y—Lindsey LeFaivre. Lindsey is not only a passionate Y member and mom who participates in programming for her young children at multiple Ys across the city, but she's also the Vice President of Customer Success with AchieveIT. This software company helps the YMCA track and measure the success of our strategic plan. In this episode, we'll explore how Lindsey's family benefits from the Y, what it's like to be part of a community serving people of all ages, and how her professional expertise is helping the Y evolve and expand its impact. IN THIS EPISODE: * 03:37 Lindsey talks about her journey to the Y and the convenience of experiencing the different Y's in Atlanta * 12:06 Lindsey explains how her company integrates with the Y, enabling the Y to track its success * 15:36 Lindsey describes the volunteer event AhieveIt hosted at the Y for older adults who have survived breast cancer, and she explains what she finds exciting about the Y * 20:15 Different fitness programs are offered at various Y locations. Lindsey emphasizes the cost-benefit of joining the Y as opposed to a private fitness club, and she talks about the resource the Y is for underserved communities * 25:12 Lindsey shares her vision for the evolving Y, capitalizing on toddlers * 29:59 Lindsey's message to parents KEY TAKEAWAYS: * The Y is much more than just swimming—many people don't realize its wide range of activities and programs. In Atlanta, different Y locations provide various opportunities for kids throughout the school year, on weekends, and during summer camps. If you haven't explored your local Y yet, do yourself and your family a favor and check it out! * A YMCA membership is both affordable and packed with value. Compared to private classes and gyms, the Y offers a wide range of activities at a fraction of the cost, making it accessible for all. Adults enjoy the Y as much as kids do—you can join in on activities or take a well-deserved break while your child participates. * The Y provides a safe environment for children, giving parents peace of mind that their kids are well cared for. Plus, the Y hosts seasonal events like Trunk or Treat, Fall Festivals, and more for families to enjoy. RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY] Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/] Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://twitter.com/search?q=metro%20atlanta%20YMCA&src=typed_query&f=live] Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/] AcheiveIt - Website [https://www.achieveit.com/] Lindsey LaFaivre - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseyingalls] BIOGRAPHY: In addition to being an avid fan and member of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Lindsey LaFaivre is the Vice President of Customer Success for a software company called AchieveIt. She has been with AchieveIt for six years. She has over 10 years of experience in Customer Success – specifically working in SaaS platforms and has assisted hundreds of clients in tracking their most important initiatives and growing their business. Lindsey has been a resident of Atlanta since 2018 and, before that, lived in Phoenix, AZ, where she got her bachelor's degree from Arizona State University. She lives in Westview with her husband, their two young daughters, and a very large dog, appropriately named Cheesecake. In her free time, she enjoys thrift shopping, biking and spending time with friends and family. She's been a member of YMCA Atlanta since 2022.

Turning Retirement into a Mission: Expanding Access to Camp

Today, we're joined by Darrell Edquist, a member of the Community Engagement Board at the Isakson/Alpharetta Family YMCA, who has turned his retirement into something incredibly meaningful. Darrell set a personal goal to help 4,000 children—kids who might not otherwise have the opportunity—experience summer camp at the Y. And he didn't just set the goal—he got to work. As of last week, he's already raised enough support to send 74 kids to camp this summer. It's a powerful reminder of what's possible when someone decides to use their time, their relationships, and their energy to make a difference. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How retirement purpose and honest self-reflection can lead to transformational community impact through youth summer camp fundraising ✅ Why a simple, consistent direct mail fundraising strategy built around personal relationships can outperform digital outreach and drive real charitable giving ✅ How sending underprivileged children to YMCA summer camp plants seeds of friendship, hope, and dreams that can ripple across generations ✅ How volunteer leadership rooted in giving without expectation of personal benefit can inspire others to discover their own joy of helping others Join the Y Connect Podcast [https://open.spotify.com/show/0by8QzV5w8Y7lShFGFZDuv?si=db5029c9ade946ec] to discover inspiring stories of transformation and wellness. Tune in for practical tips and community-driven insights on fitness transformation. Subscribe now to elevate your fitness journey! TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Darrell Edquist and his bold youth summer camp fundraising goal of sending 4,000 kids to camp 02:56 Darrell reflects on retirement purpose and discovering his greatest personal failure 08:52 What Darrell realized in attempting this goal to help others 14:03 The emotional story of a single mother and son that fuels Darrell's summer camp scholarship mission 19:05 The three-step direct mail fundraising strategy for reaching the goal of helping underprivileged children 24:39 How to donate and send a child to YMCA summer camp KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎 The fundraising strategy proves that direct mail built on trust and personal relationships still cuts through the noise when digital outreach falls short. 💎 A child can go to summer camp for $250 per week, and a special-needs summer camp experience, at just $350, provides additional counselor support and individualized attention that can profoundly shape a child's future. 💎 When individuals model community volunteerism and giving back without personal benefit, they inspire an entire network to discover meaning and purpose through charitable giving. ABOUT THE GUEST: Darrell Edquist is a member of the Community Engagement Board at the Isakson/Alpharetta Family YMCA and a passionate advocate for expanding access to YMCA summer camp for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend. After a 45-year career in sales and business, including more than 35 years in leadership roles overseeing teams and managing $50–$150 million in annual revenue, Darrell has, in retirement, turned his focus toward community impact. He's set an ambitious personal goal: to help 4,000 under-resourced children attend YMCA summer camp. What started as a personal commitment has quickly become a growing movement. As of April 3rd, Darrell has already raised enough support to send 74 children to camp—opening the door for life-changing experiences, connection, and belonging. Darrell Edquist - Email [darrelledquist@gmail.com] RESOURCES MENTIONED: Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/] Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY] LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/]

Fan Favorite: Dr. Lori Duckett on Inclusion & Impact at the Y

Today on (Y) Connect, we're honored to welcome Dr. Lori Duckett—physician, advocate, and proud member of the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA. Dr. Duckett is a passionate supporter of inclusive sports and has been instrumental in introducing Special Olympics programming to the Y. Her leadership is helping to ensure that athletes of all abilities feel seen, supported, and celebrated. In today's episode, we'll hear how Dr. Duckett's medical background, personal experiences, and unwavering belief in equity have shaped her journey—and how the Y community is growing stronger and more inclusive because of it. IN THIS EPISODE: * 00:00 Intro: Meet Dr. Lori Duckett * 02:35 Dr. Duckett's Y origin story * 05:45 Special Olympics enhances accessibility and engagement and promotes equity and access to sports * 09:28 Sports can combat obesity, support health, wellness, and socialization for athletes with special needs * 11:41 Reflection on Special Olympics fostering community growth, * 17:45 Dr. Duckett explains what inclusion means to her * 20:42 Georgia Tech provides Resources and Education for Athletes with Down Syndrome KEY TAKEAWAYS: * The advocacy for Special Olympics at the Andrew and Walter Young YMCA creates a supportive community where athletes of all abilities feel valued and included, enhancing engagement and socialization. * Collaborations with organizations like Georgia Tech and Kaiser improve accessibility to sports and education, offering resources and opportunities for athletes with Down Syndrome and their families. * Integrating Special Olympics into YMCA programs promotes health, wellness, and equity, empowering athletes and encouraging volunteer involvement for a more inclusive community. RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY] LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/] Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://twitter.com/search?q=metro%20atlanta%20YMCA&src=typed_query&f=live] Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/] Dr. Lori Duckett - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-duckett-42694562/] BIOGRAPHY: Lori Duckett is a dedicated pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente and a lifelong advocate for children with Down syndrome and pediatric obesity. Inspired by her journey as both a mother and sister to loved ones with Down syndrome, she brings a deep sense of empathy and commitment to her work. With 12 years of clinical experience, she blends medical expertise with heartfelt advocacy to support children with developmental differences and those facing weight-related health challenges. Her work centers on inclusive, evidence-based care that empowers families and addresses the unique needs of underserved communities. Dr. Duckett has a long-standing history of volunteering with the Special Olympics and is a passionate supporter of efforts that promote inclusion, empowerment, and health equity. She is actively involved in outreach, education, and collaboration with local and national Down syndrome organizations. Currently, she is developing virtual pediatric obesity counseling programs and is available for presentations, podcasts, and conference panels focused on Down syndrome, childhood obesity, and equitable care models in pediatrics.

Y Member Trinity Smith Helps Teen Girls Thrive

Today, we're joined by Trinity Smith, a high school senior and member of the East Lake Family YMCA who is already making an incredible impact in her community. Through her nonprofit Roots In Her Health, Trinity leads weekly wellness sessions for middle school girls at the Y, creating a space where they can slow down, talk openly, learn about their health and well-being, and build confidence in who they are. Her work was inspired by her own experience growing up with a chronic illness and learning how important it is for young people to understand their bodies and advocate for themselves—especially when their experiences aren't always fully understood or supported. Recently, Trinity shared a mission moment at one of our YMCA board meetings, and our board members were truly moved by her insight, compassion, and the leadership she's already showing at such a young age. CBS Atlanta also recently highlighted the incredible work she's doing at just 18. Her story is a reminder of what's possible when young people are supported, encouraged, and trusted to lead. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How teen girls' health and wellness programming at the YMCA creates safe spaces where middle school girls can build confidence-building skills and openly discuss what they are experiencing in their lives. ✅ How one young nonprofit founder turned her personal journey with chronic illness advocacy and chronic migraine awareness into a thriving youth nonprofit that is making a measurable community impact. ✅ How youth health education rooted in holistic wellness helps girls of color's health by addressing stress, self-care, journaling, and peer connection in ways that feel engaging rather than academic. ✅ Why health equity for Black girls' health matters in medicine and research, and how young leaders are stepping up to close those gaps before they ever enter a classroom or clinic. Join the Y Connect Podcast [https://open.spotify.com/show/0by8QzV5w8Y7lShFGFZDuv?si=db5029c9ade946ec] to discover inspiring stories of transformation and wellness. Tune in for practical tips and community-driven insights on fitness transformation. Subscribe now to elevate your fitness journey! TIMESTAMPS: * 00:00 Meet Trinity Smith, teen girls' wellness leader and nonprofit founder * 03:53 Trinity shares how she connected to the YMCA as a youth programming employee before launching Roots In Her Health * 05:55 Trinity reveals her diagnosis and how chronic illness advocacy shaped her mission * 08:35 How the lack of school support sparked Trinity's drive for girls' empowerment and self-care for teens * 17:40 A look inside the weekly wellness sessions Trinity leads for girls of color health at the East Lake YMCA * 22:50 Trinity's college goals focus on pediatric health, Black girls' health, and closing gaps in health equity research * 26:43 A memorable conversation with a participant reveals the ripple effect of youth health education and planting seeds of leadership * 34:28 Trinity reflects on what holistic wellness and community impact through the Y has meant for Roots In Her Health's growth KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎 Teen girls' health and wellness is not only physical. Trinity reminds us that stress, peer pressure, and identity all affect a young girl's overall well-being, making holistic wellness programming essential in community spaces like the YMCA. 💎 Chronic illness advocacy starts with being believed. Trinity had to fight to have her chronic migraine awareness taken seriously in school, and that experience became the foundation for everything she built through her youth nonprofit. 💎 Girls of color's health is a systemic issue. Trinity plans to pursue clinical research focused on health equity for Black women and young girls because representation in medicine is not optional. It is necessary. 💎 Leadership in youth programming does not require having all the answers. Trinity models that show up consistently, listening well, and equipping middle school girls with tools are how real change takes root. ABOUT THE GUEST: Trinity Smith is a high school senior, scholar, and advocate who is passionate about helping young girls understand their health and wellness. Growing up with a chronic illness made school really challenging at times and taught me how important it is to advocate for yourself—experiences that inspired me to start Roots In Her Health, Inc. Trinity is really interested in women's health and equity, and she hopes to become a pediatrician one day so she can help kids and families navigate health challenges. Her family has always been her biggest support, and they've shaped so much of who she is today. When Trinity isn't leading wellness sessions at the YMCA, she focuses on the things that help her feel grounded and whole—painting, cooking, traveling, or just trying something new that challenges me. She enjoys being creative in all kinds of ways and paying attention to what makes her feel balanced and alive. Those moments are what really recharge Trinity and keep her inspired. Roots In Her Health - Website [https://rootsinherhealth.com/] Roots In Her Health - Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rootsinherhealth/] RESOURCES MENTIONED: Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/] Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY] LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta [https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/]