When people join the YMCA, they have access to more than 3,000 group fitness classes. The Y offers everything from cycling to dance to yoga, flexibility, strength and more, all of which impact a person’s overall physical, mental and emotional health. As our guests explain, perhaps one of the best parts of these classes is the close-knit community that is formed as a result.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• 02:13 Jennifer describes what goes on in determining the variety of classes offered at the Y and how a participant determines which class they should take depending on their fitness level
• 04:23 Maura explains what motivated her to become a group exercise instructor and what the best part of her job is
• 07:44 Maura keeps the classes engaged and motivated by making class different each time, and Jennifer discusses continuously improving programming and the selection of music
• 15:15 Jennifer discusses new fitness trends
• 19:42 Discussion of the percentages of men versus women in classes

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Taking classes at the YMCA is affordable and a great way to build community and make new connections
• YMCA staff are rewarded by seeing the progress made by the participants
• Exercises can be modified so everyone can participate regardless of the member's fitness level

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY:

Jennifer has been with the YMCA of Metro Atlanta for 18 years and says she loves her job and working with the uniqueness of our various YMCA communities. She is VP of Community Health and Wellness, supporting Y branches' health and wellness programming, community partnerships, and grants. Jennifer also leads the Y's two newest locations – the YMCA at Morehouse School of Medicine and our Y at Good Sam. She enjoys spending time with her husband in her free time, watching their son play baseball and football, working out, doing DIY projects and traveling.

We have two inspiring guests today. Jim Snoddy, a member of the Robert D. Fowler Family Y, who has lost nearly 100 pounds through the YMCA’s supportive wellness programs, and Beth Girmay, the health & wellness instructor who has guided Jim every step of the way. Jim also serves on the Branch Community Engagement Board, which, as I understand it, plays pickleball almost every day.

Today, we’re discussing transformation, body, mind, habits and the role of coaching, community, consistency, and mindset. We’ll delve into how the YMCA’s Coach Approach & Weight Loss For Life programs support members, what obstacles arose, how Beth worked with Jim, and how Jim persevered. Beth, Jim, thank you both so much for joining us.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How weight loss coaching drives transformation through personalized support and community engagement at the YMCA

✅ The role of coaching and consistency in overcoming obstacles for a sustainable fitness journey

✅ Practical tools like MyFitnessPal that enhance wellness and support weight loss coaching goals

✅ The impact of community-driven fitness transformation on building lasting motivation and mindset shifts

✅ Non-scale victories that boost energy, mood, and confidence through a dedicated fitness journey

Join the Y Connect podcast 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 Intro: Jim discusses weight loss coaching, community and wellness on his fitness journey as a result of the YMCA’s accountability partners

07:44 Consistency in weight loss coaching helped Jim lose weight incrementally, using tools like MyFitnessPal to focus on quality nutrition

11:19 How to overcome obstacles, making your fitness journey sustainable, with coaching and activities like pickleball, fostering transformation and connection

17:40 Weight loss goals, tracking methods, and the importance of mindset

24:23 Beth expresses pride in Jim’s consistency and community-driven fitness transformation, noting his role in inspiring others

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

💎 Weight loss coaching at the YMCA, with personalized coaching from Beth, enabled Jim’s transformation, resulting in nearly a 100-pound weight loss.

💎 Community support, through activities like pickleball and group classes, fosters motivation and sustains a fitness journey.

💎 Small, achievable steps and tools like MyFitnessPal enhance consistency and mindset for lasting wellness.

💎 Non-scale victories, like improved energy and confidence, highlight the broader impact of a community-driven fitness transformation.

ABOUT THE GUESTS:

Jim Snoddy is a member of the Robert D. Fowler Family Y, who has lost nearly 100 pounds through the YMCA’s supportive wellness programs. Jim also serves on the Robert D. Fowler Community Engagement Board and is an avid pickleball player.

Betelhem Girmay is a wellness coach and group fitness instructor at the Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA. Using her education in exercise science as well as her passion for wellness, fitness and health, she helps members reach their wellness and fitness goals.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Coach Approach

QUOTES:

"I encourage members to start small with doable steps." Betelhem Girmay

“We start with small doable steps. When members see what they're able to do and they see their progress, they just add more success into it. And before they know it, they reach their goals.” Betelhem Girmay

“The Y has pickleball, chair yoga, regular yoga, water aerobics, and adult strength classes. A lot of times you can't start off with regular yoga, you start off with chair yoga and you get a ton of friends there. But the Y has a variety of stuff and it is so great.” Jim Snoddy

"Beth taught me about alternatives." Jim Snoddy

On today’s episode of (Y) Connect, we’re joined by someone who’s already making waves on the national stage while still just beginning her high school journey. At only 14 years old, Kari Knotts has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in U.S. volleyball.

Kari is a freshman at The Lovett School, a proud member of the Northeast Cobb Family YMCA, and a fierce competitor for A5 Volleyball Club. She recently became the youngest member of the U19 USA National Volleyball Team, where she was named both MVP and Best Spiker at the Pan-American Cup.

From her start at the YMCA to winning MVP on the international stage, Kari Knotts joins us to share her inspiring volleyball journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Intro: Allsion and Robert welcome today’s guest
• (02:21) Kari shares her first memories of playing volleyball at the YMCA and becoming the youngest member of Team USA U19
• (04:19) The moment Kari was selected for Team USA and the demanding schedule required to balance her commitments
• (06:34) Finding motivation through faith, family support, and joy for the sport
• (07:22) Lessons from volleyball: discipline, teamwork, and communication
• (08:17) Staying grounded in humility by being thankful to God for his blessing
• (08:48) Kari shares future goals: the Olympics, pursuing college and maintaining a passion for sports
• (10:50) Kari expresses gratitude to teammates and coaches, and she advises children interested in volleyball

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Starting at the YMCA, Kari built strong fundamentals in volleyball and showed how community support can spark lifelong inspiration.
• Balancing training, high school, and national competition requires discipline, motivation, and support from family, teammates and coaches.
• Staying grounded in humility while chasing big future goals—including dreams of the Olympics—keeps this young athlete focused and grateful.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY:

Kari Knotts is a 14-year-old standout athlete and proud member of the Northeast Cobb Family YMCA. A freshman at The Lovett School (Class of 2029), Kari has already built an impressive volleyball résumé. Standing 6’3” with a 10’9” approach, she competes with A5 Volleyball Club on the elite 16-1 Gabe’s team as an outside hitter.

Kari recently made history as the youngest member of the U19 USA National Volleyball Team, earning both MVP and Best Spiker honors at the 2025 U19 Pan-American Cup in Canada. She is also part of the National Training and Development Program, designed to prepare high-potential athletes for international competition.

Her teams have captured multiple national titles—including two USAV National Championships, three AAU National Championships, and two Triple Crown titles—with Kari securing MVP honors at 12U, 13U, and 14U. Despite her many accomplishments, she remains grounded, crediting her YMCA beginnings for shaping her love of the game and community.

In this Fan Favorite Episode, we delve into a story of resilience, reconciliation, and community spirit. Forsyth County, with its complex history, is making strides towards healing and inclusivity. Joining us on (Y) Connect is Durwood Sneed, an organizer of the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship, a pivotal initiative aimed at honoring and supporting the descendants of those who were unjustly expelled from the county, a racial cleansing campaign that took place in 1912 forcing Black residents out of the county. Additionally, we are joined by Joshua Byrd, a descendant who bravely returned to Forsyth County and shared his inspiring journey during the recent Juneteenth celebration hosted by the Forsyth County Family YMCA. This was the second year the Y’s Caroline Del Carmen organized this community-wide event and she rounds out the conversation as well.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:03) Zarinah introduces the subject of today's podcast

• (03:23) Listen to a clip of Joshua speaking at an event, explaining why he decided to move back to Forsyth County

• (08:33) Joshua shares the Strickland Family’s ancestry

• (15:33) Caroline describes her part in organizing the Juneteenth event in Forsyth County

• (20:23) Durwood discusses how he worked hard to alleviate fear around the event, and Joshua talks about how he was excited about the expression of love

• (23:49) Durwood explains the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship and how he learned about the events of 1912

• (29:34) Joshua discusses what the scholarship program means to him and his family. Durwood comments on how the program is making a change and how the media and politicians spin race issues

• (38:33) Caroline shares what plans they have for the future

• (41:52) The guests share their Pathway to the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• In 1912, black families were evicted from Forsyth County.

• In 1987, Forsyth County, Georgia, was known as the most racist county in America. The goal is to make it known as the country known for love.

• The answer to this crisis is to acknowledge it happened, shine a light on it, and ensure it never happens again.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY:

Josh Byrd is deeply committed to positively impacting and creating environments that foster love, kindness, and positivity. His work aims to uplift and empower individuals, helping them reach their full potential in both personal and professional aspects of life. As a seasoned business owner, wellness professional and operator of a thriving barbershop for over seven years, he has dedicated his career to fostering community, nurturing growth, and promoting holistic well-being. His diverse background in youth mentorship, coaching, and community activities has shaped his approach to creating inclusive, supportive spaces that serve personal and community needs.

Durwood Snead is the co-founder and a leader of the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship, a college scholarship for descendants of African Americans violently expelled from the county in 1912. Durwood is a retired pastor from North Point Ministries, where he directed North Point’s global(x) international ministry for almost eighteen years. Before transitioning to vocational ministry, Durwood spent 26 years in business, holding executive positions at CMD Group, AC Nielsen, and Duracell. He also serves on three other non-profit boards. Durwood and his wife Judi have lived in Forsyth County, Georgia, for 35 years, and they make regular visits to see their five children and sixteen grandchildren.

Caroline del Carmen started working with the Y in Montgomery, Alabama in 2006. Her journey began as a volunteer swim coach when her three children joined the Y’s swim team. Since then, she has worked as a Senior Director in aquatics, sports, and wellness. She is currently the Aquatics Director of the Forsyth County Family YMCA and for the past two years has led the planning and execution of Forsyth County’s Juneteenth Celebration.

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

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Dr. Lori Duckett - LinkedIn

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.

In this fan favorite episode of the Y Connect podcast, you’ll meet Oliver and his mom, Juliet. Oliver is a remarkable seven-year-old young man and Y member with a heart as big as the state of Georgia. We invite you to hear his story of extraordinary gratitude. It’s a story that will inspire you and remind you what it means to be a superhero.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:16) Oliver shares his Y story and talks about what inspired him to give gifts to the Y staff

• (05:01) Juliet tells how she reacted when Oliver made his request

• (07:20) Oliver is overwhelmed by how the staff at the Y responded and is surprised by how hard the Y staff work

• (10:10) Juliet is proud of her son, and Oliver has more ideas of how he wants to be generous

• (14:43) Oliver and his mom, Juliet, share their Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Oliver is a generous giving young man who gives back to those who have enriched his life.

• A seven-year-old boy can inspire an adult to be kind and generous.

• The staff at the Atlanta Y’s have a reputation for friendliness.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

YMCA Sizzle Reel - YouTube

BIOGRAPHY:

After living in Naples, Florida and Chicago, Illinois, seven-year-old Oliver Amoaku and his mother, Juliet, moved to Johns Creek a year ago. Needing to keep up with his swim lessons, friends led them to the Ed Isakson Family Y in Alpharetta. Fortunately, the people at the front desk were so nice when they arrived they signed up with the Y immediately, saying it has been nothing but an amazing experience since. Oliver attends Ocee Elementary School and has two sisters and a brother. He loves basketball, bike riding, swimming and the YMCA.