The Movement

YMCA of Greater Kansas City
  • 5.0 (4)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Join Mark Hulet, YMCA of Greater Kansas City President CEO, for "The Movement." Each episode includes a special guest to help us dive into how the Y is more than a place or organization - it's truly a movement of people who've been working toward strengthening the community with holistic body, mind and spirit approach since 1860 in greater Kansas City.

  1. FEB 5

    Healing Chronic Health Conditions Through Plant-Based Diet

    Welcome to The Movement, a podcast by the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore the incredible stories that connect our community through youth programs, healthy living, and social responsibility. In this episode, we visit the Linwood YMCA and sit down with Gigi, the owner of Gigi's Vegan and Wellness Cafe, who shares her inspiring journey from surviving colon cancer to becoming a wellness chef. Learn how she turned to plant-based nutrition to heal herself and how she now helps her community through KC Health Initiative and Midwest Soul VegFest. Tune in to hear practical tips on healthy cooking, the importance of food access and justice, and how small changes in your kitchen can lead to big benefits in your health. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation and cooking demonstration that might just inspire you to make some healthy shifts in your life.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City visit https://kansascityymca.org/     00:00 Introduction to the Movement Podcast 00:36 Personal Connection to Healthy Living 02:06 Gigi's Journey to Wellness 03:11 The Impact of Food on Health 07:33 Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet 09:20 Practical Tips for Healthy Eating 10:35 Addressing Common Misconceptions 15:20 Incorporating Healthy Foods into Daily Life 20:35 The KC Health Initiative 22:19 KC Health Initiative and Midwest Soul VegFest 23:21 Debunking Myths About Healthy Eating Costs 24:45 Creating a Balanced Plate 25:57 Cooking a Heart-Healthy Meal 32:21 The Golden Bowl: A Nutritious Feast 33:32 Final Thoughts and Community Connection   👉 Stay connected with us! 🔗 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kansascityymca 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ymcakansascity/ 🐦 X (Twitter):  https://x.com/kansascityymca 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ymcakansascity

    35 min

  2. 12/03/2025

    The Powerful Reason YMCA Volunteers Keep Coming Back

    Discover how volunteers at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City are transforming lives, strengthening communities, and inspiring a movement of service across the KC metro. In this episode, we explore the power of volunteer work at the YMCA, highlighting the stories of passionate community members who give their time to support youth programs, families, and neighbors. Hear firsthand accounts of what inspires volunteers, how service creates lifelong relationships, and why the YMCA's Spirit of Service culture continues to make such a powerful difference in Kansas City Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. Joining the conversation are Bill Gibson, Spirit of Service award winner, and Michelle Ford, Executive Director at Platte County YMCA, who help us shine a spotlight on the individuals bringing the Y's mission to life. Learn how YMCA volunteer opportunities support everything from food pantries and youth development to wellness, outreach, and community engagement — and why giving back is at the heart of who we are.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/     00:00 Introduction to the Movement Podcast 00:36 The Power of Volunteer Work at the YMCA 01:25 Meet Bill Gibson and Michelle Ford 02:01 Bill Gibson's Journey as a YMCA volunteer 06:06 Michelle Ford on Volunteer Energy 10:07 The Impact of Volunteering on the Community 13:52 Barriers to Volunteering and How to Overcome Them 15:55 The Emotional Rewards of Volunteering 17:21 Building a Family at the YMCA 18:55 Expanding YMCA Volunteer Efforts 28:01 The Importance of Volunteers at the YMCA     👉 Stay connected with us! 🔗 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kansascityymca 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ymcakansascity/ 🐦 X (Twitter):  https://x.com/kansascityymca 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ymcakansascity

    31 min

  3. 11/05/2025

    Pedaling for Parkinson's with YMCA of Greater Kansas City

    Discover how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City's Pedaling for Parkinson's program is empowering individuals living with Parkinson's Disease through movement, education, and community support. Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. In this episode, we highlight Pedaling for Parkinson's, a transformative YMCA wellness program designed to help participants with Parkinson's Disease improve mobility, strength, and quality of life. Learn how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City addresses chronic diseases through evidence-based exercise programs, health education, and the power of community connection. Joining the conversation are Sarah Srock, Program Director II at Platte County Community Center South, and Dr. Muhammad M. Nashatizadeh, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center, who share medical insights and inspiring stories behind this life-changing exercise program for Parkinson's Disease.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/     00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years with the YMCA 00:36 Introduction to Platte County Community Center 01:13 Parkinson's Disease and the YMCA's Pedaling for Parkinson's Program 01:23 Meet the Experts: Sarah Schrock and Dr. Mohammed 05:00 Understanding Parkinson's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis 10:31 The Impact of Exercise: Pedaling for Parkinson's 12:41 Emotional and Social Support for Parkinson's Patients 21:21 Success Stories and Future Aspirations 25:02 The Power of Community and Group Exercise 26:04 New Treatments and Research in Parkinson's Disease 31:47 Concluding Thoughts and Hopeful Messages   👉 Stay connected with us! 🔗 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kansascityymca 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ymcakansascity/ 🐦 X (Twitter):  https://x.com/kansascityymca 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ymcakansascity

    38 min

  4. 10/10/2025

    How Harvesters and the YMCA Are Fighting Hunger in Kansas City

    Discover how Harvesters and the YMCA of Greater Kansas City are tackling food insecurity through community partnerships, volunteerism, and support for families in need.   In this episode, we explore the critical issue of food security and insecurity in the Kansas City metro. Hear inspiring stories of volunteerism, community trust, and partnership that show how the YMCA and Harvesters are working together to provide hope and dignity to those in need.   Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. In this episode, Mark is joined by Elizabeth Keever, Chief Resource Officer at Harvesters, and Jim Hawkins, Spirit of Service honoree and longtime YMCA volunteer, to share how the Providence YMCA's food pantry is making a difference in the community and how volunteers are leading the fight against hunger.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/     00:00 Introduction to the Movement Podcast 00:35 Food Security Discussion with Elizabeth Keffer and Jim Hawkins 01:51 Jim Hawkins' Volunteer Journey 03:06 Elizabeth Keffer on Food Insecurity 03:52 The Role of Volunteers 04:59 Harvesters' Mission and Impact 06:47 Partnerships and Community Impact 11:48 Innovative Approaches to Tackling Hunger 17:57 Challenges and Future of Food Security 30:02 Encouragement to Volunteer and Conclusion     👉 Stay connected with us! 🔗 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kansascityymca 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ymcakansascity/ 🐦 X (Twitter):  https://x.com/kansascityymca 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ymcakansascity

    37 min

  5. 09/04/2025

    This YMCA Program Is Transforming Immigrant Stories in Kansas City

    Discover how the YMCA's New American Welcome Center in Kansas City is transforming immigrant lives through community, belonging, and support.   In this episode, we highlight the North Kansas City YMCA and its work as a New American Welcome Center, supporting one of the most diverse populations in the Kansas City metro. Hear powerful stories of immigrant integration, community belonging, and youth development that show how the YMCA builds bridges across cultures.   Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. In this episode Mark is joined by Executive Director Andrea Toney, Program Coordinator Aracely Van Kirk, and ESL graduate Mene share how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City empowers individuals through English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, immigrant support services, and a commitment to inclusion and belonging.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/     00:00 Welcome to The Movement: Celebrating 165 Years 01:05 Introduction to the North Kansas City YMCA 01:37 The New American Welcome Center: A Hub for Immigrant Support 02:47 Belonging Begins With Us: Creating Inclusive Spaces 03:18 Meet the Team: Stories of Impact and Inspiration 07:47 The Importance of Learning English 09:11 Building Community Through Programs and Events 21:10 Welcoming Week: How to Get Involved 23:10 Final Thoughts: Fostering Belonging and Inclusion   👉 Stay connected with us! 🔗 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kansascityymca 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ymcakansascity/ 🐦 X (Twitter):  https://x.com/kansascityymca 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ymcakansascity

    26 min
  6. Inside Kansas City's Life-Changing Teen Tech Center

    08/07/2025

    Inside Kansas City's Life-Changing Teen Tech Center

    In this episode of The Movement, we find ourselves at the Best Buy Teen Tech Center in the North Kansas City YMCA.   Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.   At the Best Buy Teen Tech Center, we explore the integration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) into youth programming. Hear inspiring stories from Tang, the center's director, and DeNiro and Belle-Ange, as they discuss their personal journeys, the power of mentorship, and the transformative impact of the North KC YMCA's Best Buy Teen Tech Center. Discover how this dynamic space fosters creativity, breaks the digital divide, and prepares teens for lifelong success.   'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/     00:00 Welcome to The Movement: Celebrating 165 Years 00:53 Introduction to the Best Buy Teen Tech Center 01:49 Meet the Alumni: Belle-Ange and DeNiro 03:34 Tang's Journey and Vision 04:55 Impactful Projects and Personal Growth 13:04 The Role of Volunteers and Mentors 17:38 Building Trust and Expression 23:44 Fostering Leadership in Returning Participants 24:39 Journey from Participant to Staff Member 27:42 Encouraging Teens to Join the Teen Tech Center 29:59 Impact of Best Buy's Investment 32:06 Promoting the Teen Tech Center and Community Relationships 35:26 Final Thoughts and Reflections 35:36 Rapid Fire Questions 39:54 Concluding Remarks and Future Vision

    44 min

  7. 07/08/2025

    Igniting Young Minds: How S.P.A.R.K! is Closing the Literacy Gap

    Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.   In this episode, we explore the transformative impact of the YMCA's S.P.A.R.K! program, designed to combat summer learning loss and ignite student success through academic support and enrichment activities. Featuring insights from Zach Patterson, a teacher at the SPARK Program at Oak Grove Elementary, and heartwarming stories from young campers, Melena and Tyler, this episode highlights how SPARK is making a meaningful difference in the lives of Kansas City's youth. Get inspired by these remarkable journeys and learn how programs like SPARK are building stronger, more confident readers and learners.   'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.     00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years 00:35 Season Finale Kickoff 01:14 Igniting Summer Learning with Spark Program 02:23 Meet the SPARK Program Team 03:11 Success Stories and Student Experiences 06:08 The Unique Structure of SPARK 07:22 The Impact of Spark on the Turner Community 09:45 Daily Life at SPARK Camp 12:40 Using Technology to Enhance Learning 15:34 Meeting Students Where They Are 18:40 Student Progress and Confidence 20:13 Impact of SPARK Programs 21:52 The Joy of Learning and Playing 23:56 Grant Opportunities and Future Vision 26:27 Teacher's Perspective and Student Interaction 32:11 Final Thoughts and Lightning Round 36:32 Conclusion and Call to Action   #YMCAofKC #FocusForward #KCMetro #KansasCity #YMCAprograms #SPARK #SPARKprogram #YMCASPARK #SummerLearningLoss #SummerLearning #EducationSupport #OutOfSchoolTimeLearning #AfterschoolPrograms #YouthEducation #ReadingPrograms #KidsPrograms #YouthDevelopment #EmpoweringYouth #ConfidentLearners #InspiringYoungMinds #BuildingFutureLeaders

    38 min

  8. 06/05/2025

    Diagnosed with Cancer—This YMCA Program Is Helping People Stay Strong

    Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.   In this episode, we explore the LiveSTRONG program at the YMCA — an evidence-based health and wellness initiative for those diagnosed with cancer. Hear the inspiring story of cancer survivor Maura, her supportive husband Ricky, and their coach, Kim. Discover how LiveSTRONG provides physical rehabilitation, emotional support, and mental wellness resources — helping individuals rebuild strength and confidence in their lives post-cancer diagnosis. Learn about the community, relationships, and personal growth fostered by LiveSTRONG at the Y, and hear inspiring stories that underscore the program's significance.   'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.   To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/   00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years of Impact 00:42 Olathe Family YMCA: A Legacy of Community Service 01:18 Live Strong at the YMCA: Empowering Cancer Survivors 01:38 Meet the Participants: Stories of Strength and Resilience 02:06 The Structure and Benefits of Live Strong Program 11:29 Maura's Journey: Overcoming Cancer with Support 20:19 Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Acceptance 21:26 Emotional Reflections and Group Support 23:16 Personal Discoveries and Strength 24:08 Family Support and Community 28:08 The Importance of Alumni and Continuous Involvement 30:23 Encouragement and Advice for Caregivers 34:26 Signing Up and Final Thoughts

    40 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Join Mark Hulet, YMCA of Greater Kansas City President CEO, for "The Movement." Each episode includes a special guest to help us dive into how the Y is more than a place or organization - it's truly a movement of people who've been working toward strengthening the community with holistic body, mind and spirit approach since 1860 in greater Kansas City.

Information

  • Creator
    YMCA of Greater Kansas City
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    The Movement