Ep. 55 - The Hosts Reflect on Two Years of (Y) Connect

Welcome to a special episode of the (Y) Connect podcast as we celebrate two incredible years of storytelling, community impact, and meaningful conversations. In this episode, your hosts, Allison, Robert, and Zarinah, take a fun and heartfelt look back at the journey of (Y) Connect, sharing memorable moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and personal reflections.

And speaking of memorable moments... you’re in for a treat! Robert showcases his incredible singing voice once again — a callback to the very first episode two years ago. Get ready for laughter, inspiration, and a walk down memory lane as we reflect on two years of connecting, learning, and growing together at the Y. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:59] How the podcast began, and the hosts discuss meaningful episodes

• [4:36] Zarinah reveals which episodes left a lasting impact on her this year: Ep. 53 - Running Strong: The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners and Ep. 39 - Diving in With the Mermaids at the Y

• [6:30] Allison gives a deeper look into Ep. 39 - Diving in With the Mermaids at the Y

• [8:31] Robert shares the episodes that showed him an  unexpected story or an insightful perspective: Ep. 48 - Finding Strength Through Community at the Y and Ep. 41 - Building Community Through Fitness at the Y

• [14:37] An episode that represents strength and resilience: Ep. 36 - A Multi-Generational Dive into Swim Lessons

• [16:19] The hosts shared moments when they met, their comradery, and Robert sings a stanza of Amazing Grace

• [21:00] Zarinah reflects on Ep. 54 - Philanthropy in Action and Ep. 44 - Facing Forsyth County's Past & Honoring Its Descendants, and other moving episodes

• [25:10] Looking forward to other episodes to feature in 2025

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Community stories create lasting impact.  The podcast reflects on episodes like Running Strong: The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners and Building Community Through Fitness at the Y, highlighting how the Y fosters community, fitness and resilience. These stories showcase the transformative power of shared experiences in strengthening bonds across diverse groups.

• The hosts' camaraderie is evident as they share behind-the-scenes moments and personal insights, such as Robert’s heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace. This reflects the deeper, personal connections the podcast has cultivated between the team and its audience over the past two years.

• Episodes like Ep. 44 - Facing Forsyth County's Past & Honoring Its Descendants demonstrate the Y's commitment to addressing history while promoting healing and progress. The discussion about upcoming episodes in 2025 reveals a forward-thinking vision to continue highlighting impactful stories that inspire growth and inclusion.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook:  YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Ep. 53 - Running Strong: The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners

Ep. 39 - Diving in With the Mermaids at the Y

Ep. 48 - Finding Strength Through Community at the Y

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