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June 11, 2025 24 mins

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 boys and mother got involved in swim lessons as a family

  • (06:27)  Gwendolyn, the grandmother, discusses how comfortable she became, and Jennifer talks about how she became an instructor

  • (09:26) The boys discuss their impressions of taking swim lessons along with their mom and grandmother, and they discuss funny moments during their swim lessons

  • (13:26)  Discussion of lessons learned and great memories made

  • (16:08) Ayanna advises other multi-generational families. Ryan and Nicholas discuss what they would tell their friends about taking swim lessons with their family

  • (19:42) Each guest shares their Pathway to the (Y)

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • The Y encourages families to take swim lessons regardless of age.

  • Ayanna’s family proves that this new method of teaching families how to swim simultaneously, works

  • Ayanna’s sons have confessed that taking swimming lessons with their family, although they weren’t excited about it in the beginning, has turned out to be very fun for them. 

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook:  YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

Strong 4 Life - Website

BIOGRAPHY: Jax Ruppert

With a lifelong commitment to the YMCA, Jax began his journey at 16 as a lifeguard, progressing to roles as a swim instructor and swim team coach. Passionate about teaching and inspiring others, he transitioned into the role of Aquatics Director. His focus is on training and developing his staff to excel and taking immense pride in their growth and achievements. Committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, Jax spearheads drowning prevention programs, starting with educating parents on the critical importance of water safety.

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