Why the Y matters to YOUR life and YOUR Community
The Y is your first stop for well-being, connection and purpose. This podcast is where we ask "Y in the World?" and answer with stories that show how the Y fits into YOUR world.
Charity and Kayleigh tackle the back-to-school conversation that often gets overlooked: youth mental health in Stark County. They’re joined by Mary Kreitz, a licensed professional counselor and lead therapist for CNA’s trauma program, who shares insights from 20+ years of working with kids through anxiety, depression, and the pressures of a new school year. Hear why supporting young people’s well-being matters just as much as backpacks and new sneakers—and what families, schools, and communities can do to be ready for them.Visit C&A (https://www.childandadolescent.org/)
10 Aug 2026
Y in the World Do We Keep Coming Back to the Y?
In today's episode, Kayleigh and Charity celebrate the YMCA’s 175th anniversary by exploring why people keep coming back to the Y. Hear perspectives from Archie, a five-year-old who loves to swim; Art, a 98-year-old member whose Y friendships and fitness routine keep him active; and YMCA of Central Stark County CEO Rich Micelli.
7 Jul 2026
Y in the World Do We Take Care of Our Teachers?
In today's episode of Why in the World, Kayleigh and Charity explore what it truly means to build a stronger community by looking beyond student wellness and focusing on the people who support them every day. They sit down with Lake Local School District Superintendent Brett Yeagley to discuss why investing in staff health and well-being is essential for thriving schools.
18 Jun 2026
Y In The World Does Digital Wellness Matter?
In this episode, we explore digital wellness and the impact of screen time on families, kids, and community connection. Join Kayleigh and Charity as they talk with local experts Kay Conley and Patti Fetzer about finding balance in a digital world and building healthier habits for everyday life.
Boston Children's Digital Wellness Lab (https://digitalwellnesslab.org/)
Stark Help Central (https://www.starkhelpcentral.com/)
The Anxious Generation (https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/book)Common Sense Media (https://www.commonsense.org/)
6 May 2026
Y in the World Does Summer Camp Still Matter?
Today, we’re talking about the lasting impact of camp and why it matters now more than ever. Join hosts Kayleigh and Charity as they sit down with Alyssa from the YMCA of Central Stark County to reflect on the friendships, memories, and sense of belonging that make day camp such a meaningful part of summer for so many families.
We explore what keeps kids coming back year after year, how camp shapes who they become, and why those experiences still matter long after summer ends.
6 Apr 2026
Y in the World Does Movement Matter for Parkinson’s?
What if exercise at the Y could do more than build muscle —what if it could help you speak louder, swallow safer, breathe easier, and feel less alone with Parkinson’s?
In this episode of Y in the World, we explore how movement-based programs at the YMCA of Central Stark County are supporting people living with Parkinson’s - not just through targeted programming, but through the power of community, connection, and showing up together week after week. We talk with instructor Mary Daly about real changes in daily life, the importance of movement for voice, swallowing, balance, and coordination, and why the sense of belonging at the Y often matters just as much as the physical training.
5 Mar 2026
Y in the World Does Giving Matter?
Join Charity & Kayliegh with guest Mike Gallina, longtime educator, community leader, and North Canton YMCA board member, as they unpack why giving really matters at the Y.
Together, they explore how donations create true access—not just to a building, but to safe spaces, relationships, and life-changing programs for kids, families, and older adults. This episode dives into financial assistance, breaking down barriers like cost, transportation, and social isolation, and how even a small gift helps “level the belonging field” right here in Central Stark County. Tune in to discover how your support fuels priceless moments of confidence, connection, and community—one smile at a time.
4 Feb 2026
Y in the World Does Heart Health Matter?
Join Charity & Kayliegh with guest Joe Mohr, a Paul & Carol David YMCA member who survived a heart attack during cycling class thanks to trained staff and the Y community support.
This episode, Chelsea Caldwell from the American Heart Association dives into prevention strategies, emergency preparedness, daily wellness habits, and how the Y builds safe spaces for heart-healthy living. Tune in for life-saving insights!
5 Jan 2026
Y in the World start your New Year at the Y?
January is a fresh start, but real change doesn’t happen alone. In this episode, we explore how group fitness at the Y helps people build routines that last - through community, encouragement, and accessible classes for every ability. You’ll hear from one of our Wellness Directors, an instructor, and two members whose stories show why change sticks when you find your people.
4 Dec 2025
Y in the World Do the Holidays Feel So Stressful?
In a season full of giving, gatherings, and grief, we talk with Mike Brown — a longtime YMCA leader, pastor, and community partnerships advocate — about finding balance. Drawing from his years at the Downtown YMCA and his work in ministry, Mike shares real-life tools for managing holiday stress, nurturing wellness in mind, body, and spirit, and rediscovering gratitude during one of the busiest times of the year.
4 Nov 2025
Y in the World Is It So Hard to Eat Well During the Holidays? Because Food Is About Culture, Connection, and Care.
Join us for a conversation with Andrea Frank, a holistic health coach and Wellness Director known for her whole-person approach to well-being, shaped by experiences across diverse cultures and communities. This episode dives into the heart of holiday eating—why it feels so emotionally loaded and how food connects us to family, memory, and belonging. Andrea shares practical tools for enjoying the season while caring for body, mind, and spirit, along with insights from global traditions that celebrate balance and joy. Plus, learn how the Y supports members in staying grounded and well throughout the holidays.
8 Oct 2025
Y in the World Does Aging Look Different Now?
Today's podcast episode explores how today’s seniors are redefining aging through active lifestyles, strong relationships, and vibrant community involvement at the YMCA. Our guest, Aimee, shares her personal journey of finding passion in working with older adults, highlighting how connection and “jumpstart” goal-setting programs motivate seniors and build lasting friendships.
5 Sept 2025
Y in the World Does Inclusion Matter?
In today's episode, we explore what it really means to create spaces where every ability belongs. Our guests Joel & Steve share personal stories that highlight the power of inclusion, resilience, and community—reminding us why adaptive programs matter not just for individuals, but for all of us.
1 Aug 2025
Y in the World Use Y Childcare
Join us with our Child Care Director, Ricky Lovell, for an exciting deep dive into Y Club! Discover what makes Y child care programs special.
15 Jul 2025
Y in the World Work Out Outside?
Join us as we explore the connection between outdoor activity and wellness.
15 Jul 2025
Y in the World Do a Podcast?
Welcome to Y in the World! Tune in to find out why we started a podcast and what is to come.
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