by Allison Toller, Zarinah Winston & Robert Wright
Welcome to The (Y) Connect Podcast. As the heartbeat of the community, the Y is a connector where people of all ages and walks of life come together to elevate their health, wellness, education, and essential life skills. Join hosts Allison, Zarinah and Robert as they have authentic conversations with individuals sharing personal connections and stories of what connects them to the Y. For 164 years, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta has built programs that foster community, address critical needs, and empower individuals to achieve their full potential. This work is only possible with our Y community. Together we champion communities where everyone belongs and would love for you to be part of it. Let's keep the conversation going about what the Y means to you and where you can find one near you. Please visit us at ymca atlanta dot org and subscribe to our Healthy Together newsletter. Biography: Robert Wright has 20 years of experience encouraging and motivating individuals in the human and social service industry, ranging from children to adults with mental health and substance abuse diagnoses as well as developmental disabilities. He utilized his experience of assisting others and has transferred his energy and focus to fitness and wellness. He is motivated to merge both arenas and give individuals with diagnoses and disabilities another avenue other than the traditional clinical and medicinal approach. Zarinah Winston began working for the Metro Atlanta YMCA in 1999. Zarinah has served the YMCA in multiple roles for the past 23 years. Currently, she serves as a Center Director of an Early Learning Center. Her role consists of supervising and leading staff, implementing program plans, overseeing daily activities, and managing the Center budget. Prior to becoming a Center Director for the Y, her YMCA experiences consisted of being a Summer Camp Counselor, After School Site Director, Assistant Teacher, Lead Teacher and Lead Instructional Support Coach. The YMCA honored Zarinah with the “Outstanding Performance Award” for the Covington YMCA. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies (Education) and a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a minor in Early Childhood Education. By pursuing lifelong learning, she intends to be an example for the amazing team that she leads at her school. Zarinah is proud to be a mother of 3 wonderful children, Zamaria, Zachary, and Zavier. Her oldest daughter Zamaria and her middle son Zachary entered YMCA Early Learning at the tender age of 6 weeks. The YMCA exposed the children to a safe and caring learning environment, friendships, rich language & literacy skills, strong communication skills, and so much more. Zarinah’s family is her heart and inspiration for striving to be the best version of herself. The core values of the YMCA (Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility) are characteristics that she strives to always live by. Zarinah enjoys owning her own candle business, journaling, traveling, exercising, listening to music and spending time with family and friends. Zarinah is influenced and mentored by her uncle who is the CEO/President of a YMCA. Zarinah believes in enjoying life by being of service to others. She lives by the quote, “Feel the present, hold the vision, let go of resistance, enjoy the journey, trust the process and know that all is well.” Fredrick Talloen Allison Toller is the Chief Social Impact Officer for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. Charged with cultivating and stewarding the Y’s strategic corporate, civic, and community partnerships, she and the Social Impact team also drive the Association’s strategic plan, embedding it into the fabric of the organization. Additionally, she oversees the Y’s volunteerism and advocacy initiatives. Prior to coming to the Y, Allison was a corporate social responsibility leader with Cox Communications'. With a dual background in broadcasting and education, Allison was Chief of Staff and Communications Director for two of the largest school districts in Georgia. Through these experiences, she has a deep knowledge of the education system having led several high-profile campaigns on a variety of issues including taxes, teacher shortages, school zoning, and crisis situations. Developing strong relationships among local, state and national media, Allison was a registered lobbyist working within the Georgia state legislature to fully fund schools throughout the state. She built an innovative and award-winning brand widely recognized among independent schools. As Chief of External Affairs for Mount Vernon, she amplified marketing efforts to increase year-on-year enrollment. Early in her career Allison was a television news broadcaster; live television was the perfect training ground where she learned the art of storytelling. For several years she shared these skills on a national level, conducting leadership training sessions in the corporate, civic, and university settings. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication from Florida State University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Georgia College & State University. Allison is a graduate of both Leadership Cobb and Leadership Sandy Springs; she is a recipient of the YWCA Woman of Achievement Award and was named to the Top 20 Under 40 list by the Marietta Daily Journal. A lover of hiking, traveling, running the trails along the Chattahoochee, Allison lives in Sandy Springs with her husband Rick, and they have two children. Nina attends Georgia Tech and Jackson is a senior in high school. Both children spent their summers growing up at YMCA Camp High Harbour at Lake Allatoona. Social Media Yconnectpodcast.com https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/
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11/16/2022
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April 16, 2025
<p dir="ltr">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.</p> <p dir="ltr">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 and the Y’s new greenhouse bus to life, connecting health, nutrition, and movement for all ages. Collette and Elease are reimagining what community wellness can look like from the ground up.</p> <p dir="ltr">IN THIS EPISODE: </p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">(02:33) Collette shares what inspired the community garden</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">(07:53) Discussion of the physical impact of gardening relating to health and wellness</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">(11:24) The veggies that grow in the community garden, a bus that became a greenhouse bus, and garden dinners</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">(21:11) Elease shares her weight loss journey, and Collette gives tips on starting a community garden</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">(27:02) The community garden at the Y encourages volunteers on the second Saturday of the month</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">KEY TAKEAWAYS: </p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The garden was born out of a desire to combat food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide accessible, healthy food. More than just a food source, it was designed to be an educational tool—teaching community members how to grow their food and understand where it comes from, reinforcing the idea of “teach a man to fish.”</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Beyond providing nourishment, the garden has become a space for physical activity, mental wellness, and community bonding. It brings people together—from volunteers and local businesses to kids and families—creating a shared sense of purpose and grounding through nature and collective effort.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Y has intentionally made the garden accessible, even for those intimidated by gardening. Community garden assistants offer guidance, and activities like sunflower harvesting and sensory gardens engage people of all ages and skill levels, helping them discover joy and confidence in growing.</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">RESOURCE LINKS:</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href= "https://twitter.com/search?q=metro%20atlanta%20YMCA&src=typed_query&f=live" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a><strong><br /></strong></p> <p dir="ltr">BIOGRAPHIES:: </p> <p dir="ltr">Collette Cosby is the Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, where she leads with a passion for community engagement, sustainability, and inclusive service. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and program development, Collette has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including the YMCA Community Garden—an innovative project promoting food equity, education, and connection. Known for her servant leadership and strategic vision, she is committed to creating meaningful change at the local level. Today, she’ll share how the garden grew into a vital hub for learning and community.</p> <p dir="ltr">Elease Murray has worked in the fitness industry since 2009, inspired by her love for God and her personal journey of losing and maintaining 100 pounds. She began her YMCA career in 2016 and was promoted to Wellness Director at the J.M. Tull Gwinnett YMCA in 2023, where she leads the Wellness Department and Community Garden. Elease is passionate about helping others find wholeness through faith, fitness, and education.</p>
March 26, 2025
<p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">IN THIS EPISODE:</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(01:08) Introduction of guests and description of The Mermaids</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(03:22) Chris describes what the Mermaids are to her</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(05:17) Carolyn shares how she was introduced to the Mermaids and refers to her friendships. Chris describes the activities they do at the Y</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(08:40) How the group was founded and how men and women participate. Most attendees are retired, and the Y is an excellent place to meet people</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(13:48) Chris and Carolyn describe a typical day at the Y</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(17:09) The camaraderie benefits mental health. The activity strengthens you physically</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(21:59) The guests tell how they volunteered at the Y, the programs and events that are upcoming and advice they would give to anyone who needs to stay active</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(25:30) The importance of welcoming people and learning their names, and the guests give prompts to individual Y employees</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">(30:25) Carolyn and Chris talk about how they became aware of the Y</li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">KEY TAKEAWAYS:</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">[3:23] The Mermaids provide more than water aerobics. It is a time when people can interact with each other and develop new friendships</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">[7:29] Swimming is not a prerequisite for attending a Mermaids class. If you can stand in the water, you can participate</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">[9:05] The Mermaids have men attend, and they are called Mermen and attend the monthly lunches with the women. </p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">RESOURCE LINKS:</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href= "https://twitter.com/search?q=metro%20atlanta%20YMCA&src=typed_query&f=live" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://ymcaatlanta.org/impact/volunteer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Volunteer at the YMCA</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://ymcaatlanta.org/sports/adult-sports" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://ymcaatlanta.org/sports/youth-sports" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports</a></p> <p dir="ltr">BIOGRAPHIES: </p> <p dir="ltr">Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.</p> <p dir="ltr">Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries. </p> <p> </p>
March 12, 2025
<p dir="ltr">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 races with a focus on consistency.. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on perseverance, balance, and the power of community at the Y!</p> <p dir="ltr">IN THIS EPISODE: </p> <p dir="ltr">(00:00) Intro</p> <p dir="ltr">(03:15) Omari’s history of participation at YMCA athletic programs</p> <p dir="ltr">(07:44) Legislature's approach to mental health for athletes</p> <p dir="ltr">(10:32) Omari on marathons and what the Y teaches youth</p> <p dir="ltr">(16:16) Preparing for races</p> <p dir="ltr">(24:08) Omar’s journey of marathons and information on his next run</p> <p dir="ltr">KEY TAKEAWAYS: </p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Omari Crawford's experiences as a student athlete shaped his advocacy for mental health support in sports. He emphasizes athletes' challenges, such as performing under pressure while dealing with personal struggles. He has worked on legislation to support their well-being, which received strong bipartisan support.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The YMCA played a significant role in Crawford's early development, from sports to community building. Now, as an adult, he remains actively involved, serving on the Eastlake YMCA board and advocating for the organization. His dedication extends to a personal goal of running half marathons across the country, aligning with the YMCA's mission of promoting health and community engagement.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Omari Crawford shares how running has shaped his mental well-being since childhood. He emphasizes the power of consistency in long-distance running and challenges himself through disciplined habits.</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">RESOURCE LINKS:</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MetroAtlantaY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantaymca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href= "https://twitter.com/search?q=metro%20atlanta%20YMCA&src=typed_query&f=live" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rep.crawford/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Omari Crawford - Instagram</a></p> <p dir="ltr">BIOGRAPHY: </p> <p dir="ltr">Omari Crawford was raised in DeKalb County, Georgia and currently serves as the State Representative for Georgia’s 89th House District. After graduating from Southwest DeKalb High School, Omari attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) on a track and field scholarship. During his collegiate career, he was a member of the all-academic conference team for three consecutive years. Omari received his Bachelor of Science in political science and Master of Public Administration (MPA) from FAMU in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Omari earned his law degree and Master of Business Administration from North Carolina Central University in 2013. Omari serves on the East Lake Family YMCA boards and the MTS Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc. He is an active member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc., DeKalb Lawyers Association, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia—serving as the Grand Attorney and serves as a member of the Clark Atlanta University Athletic Director Advisory Council. Omari uses his athletic experiences as a former Georgia High School Association Track and Field Champion to mentor DeKalb County high school student-athletes. Omari participates in races and cycling events around the country in his spare time.</p>
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