Hosted by Mark Hulet, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, The Movement is a monthly podcast that dives into conversations with community leaders, volunteers, members, and associates who have been part of the Y’s impact and are committed to moving communities forward.
In this episode of The Movement, the podcast from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, host Mark Hulet visits Sunset Valley Elementary School in the Lee’s Summit School District, where campers are learning about the digestive system by building it themselves with straws, paper, tape and other materials.
Richard Irwin, STEM educator with the Missouri AfterSchool Network, explains how the STEM Mobile Lab brings hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and math activities to after-school programs across Missouri. He also discusses why STEM education supports more than career readiness – it helps young people develop critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and confidence.
Mark is also joined by YMCA Youth Development leaders Darcy Swan and Andi Gilbertson to explore the bigger picture behind YMCA summer day camp, before- and after-school care, social-emotional learning, financial assistance and the YMCA’s growing STEAM Alliance with Kansas City-area engineering firms.
In this episode of The Movement, host Mark Hulet is joined by KC CARE Health Center President & CEO Wil Franklin and Chief Marketing & Development Officer Doug Day to discuss how community partnerships can help improve health outcomes across Kansas City.
The conversation explores the social factors that shape health, including access to care, transportation, housing, food security, and social connection. Learn how KC CARE and the YMCA are working together to remove barriers, expand access to services, and support healthier families and communities.
From mobile health clinics and Healthy Kids Day to maternal health, preventive care, and building trust with patients, this episode highlights why healthcare is about more than appointments—it's about meeting people where they are.
In this episode of The Movement, the podcast from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, host Mark Hulet sits down with Mandi Kearns, COO of Just Like You Films, and Genevieve Muncy, the YMCA’s Senior Behavioral Health Director, to talk about empathy, inclusion, food allergies, and the emotional realities many children face every single day.
They discuss the film May Contain My Life, which brings audiences into the daily realities of children and families living with life-threatening food allergies, and how storytelling – and a VR experience that shows both the child’s and a friend’s perspectives – can deepen understanding and inclusion. The conversation explores invisible needs, the burdens families carry, how kids learn empathy through social-emotional learning and conflict resolution, and why adult modeling matters in creating safe, inclusive spaces in camps, schools, and community programs.
In this episode of The Movement, the podcast from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, host Mark Hulet records from the North Kansas City YMCA during Healthy Kids Day – the YMCA's national initiative that has been championing healthy development for kids and families since 1992.
He’s joined by Blue KC leaders Michaela Stevenson and Miranda Coffey to discuss why Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City partnered as presenting sponsor, how community health extends beyond clinics into walkability, food access, and social connection, and how events like Healthy Kids Day make resources more accessible for families. They highlight the importance of youth behavioral and mental health, including Blue KC’s Shut Out the Stigma partnership with the Kansas City Royals, and emphasize belonging and community partnerships. Families and kids share excitement about activities like STEM/STEAM, planting seeds, sports, and the greenhouse.
In this episode of The Movement, the podcast from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, host Mark Hulet is joined by Kevin Holmes, evening news anchor at KSHB 41 Action News, and Gerald, a YMCA swim instructor who went from non-swimmer to certified swim instructor. Together they share their personal journeys with water – their fear, the avoidance, the turning points, and ultimately the confidence that comes from taking that first step into the pool.
Kevin candidly shares how he’s always managed to get by – standing in shallow ends, wearing a life vest on boats while friends jumped in, laughing it off – but underneath it all, realizing he wasn’t alone. Millions of people across Kansas City and beyond don’t know how to swim. Gerald’s journey is equally powerful: after traumatic childhood experiences near the water and years of being told to “stay away,” he turned to water aerobics on a doctor’s orders, then quietly began teaching himself to swim; half a lane at a time. The transformation didn’t just improve his physical health, it changed his whole life.
In this episode of The Movement, the podcast from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, host Mark Hulet sits down with Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II to reflect on 20 years of the Cleaver YMCA and its impact along historic Troost Avenue.
Often described as Kansas City’s dividing line, Troost was shaped by segregation, redlining, and decades of disinvestment. Congressman Cleaver shares his personal journey – from moving to Kansas City during a deeply segregated era to serving as mayor and later in Congress – and the lessons he learned about leadership, equity, and community healing.
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.
In this episode, we highlight the power of volunteerism at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, a tradition that has fueled community impact for more than 165 years. Host Mark Hulet visits Platte County Community Center North with longtime volunteer and UnitedHealthcare partner Bill Gibson, along with Executive Director Michelle Ford, to explore how one person’s “yes” can spark change.
From supporting food drives and youth programs to creating moments of belonging across the Northland, Bill and Michelle share how volunteering transforms both communities and the volunteers themselves. Whether you have an hour or a day, getting started is easier than you think.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In this episode, Mark is joined by Executive Director Andrea Toney, Program Coordinator Aracely Van Kirk, and ESL graduate Mene, who 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.
In this episode of The Movement, we find ourselves at the Best Buy Teen Tech Center in the North Kansas City YMCA.
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.
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.
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.
In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of water safety with guests Sabrah Parsons, Aquatics Director for the Kansas City YMCAs, and the Mayor of Kansas City, Quinton Lucas. Amid sharing heartfelt and tragic stories, they highlight the critical need for swim lessons and water safety education across communities, especially underserved ones. Learn about the significant efforts and partnerships that have emerged to prevent drowning incidents and the ongoing mission to ensure 'not one more.' Hear stories of resilience, community collaboration, and the tireless efforts to make a difference.
In this episode, we visit the Bonner Springs Family YMCA to explore youth and family programs, with a special focus on Healthy Kids Day. Hear from Brooke, Youth and Family Coordinator, as she shares her insights into the development programs, community involvement, and unique partnerships with local schools. Dive into fun activities, volunteer opportunities, and the significance of creating safe, engaging environments for children, and learn how the YMCA is shaping a healthier future for our kids and families.
From learning loss to social struggles and mental health challenges, the Y has developed innovative programs to help elementary school children overcome the obstacles of the post-pandemic world. CEO Mark Hulet sits down with Sydney Smith, a Behavioral Specialist, along with Brittany and her son Brecken, to explore the transformative impact of initiatives like Y Club and Trauma Smart. Through their stories, discover how the YMCA is fostering resilience, emotional well-being, and a sense of belonging for children across our community.
This Black History Month, The Movement celebrates the the profound impact of the Paseo YMCA—from its foundational role for African Americans in KC to its significance in American sports history as the birthplace of the Negro Leagues. CEO Mark Hulet hosts Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, to explore the ongoing efforts to preserve this legacy. Filmed inside the future Buck O’Neil Education and Research Center, this conversation honors the past and looks ahead.
In this episode of ‘The Movement,’ we celebrate the 165th anniversary of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City with a visit to the Cleaver Family YMCA. Discover the moving story of Juvonda Whitney and her journey of transformation thanks to the Y’s support. From youth development to healthy living, the Cleaver Family YMCA exemplifies the core values of caring, respect and responsibility.
For girls and women across the country, flag football is becoming a platform for opportunities. In this episode, Mark Hulet hosts Sheila Sickau, Youth Marketing Manager for the Kansas City Chiefs, and Eme Porter, YMCA flag football quarterback, to discuss how this fast-growing sport is empowering young athletes to lead, compete and succeed. From building friendships to Olympic dreams, hear their stories and insights into the future of flag football.
For KC Current Goalie AD Franch, her soccer career began at the YMCA in Salina, Kansas. Host Mark Hulet talks to Franch about the value of playing sports at the Y growing up and her journey to becoming a member of one of the best teams in the NWSL. Hear her story and advice to parents and young athletes.
Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO of YMCA of the USA, shares with host Mark Hulet her journey to becoming the first woman to lead YMCA of the USA. Hear how Ys are making an impact in a range of ways, from improving mental health to serving as a place that provides common ground and connections for people of all backgrounds at a time when the world seems more divided than ever.
Mark Hulet talks to Dr. Jessica Dain, Superintendent of Piper School District, and Darcy Swan, Senior Vice President of Youth Development, about how districts and the Y work together to support student success. Hear about why they're passionate about youth development, trends in education, and tips for families to ease into the school year.
As we launch the Y's podcast, host Mark Hulet, CEO, will talk to Dr. Michelle Robin, Chief Volunteer Officer of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. They'll share their passion for the Y and they dive into how the Y is more than a place or an organization, it's truly a movement of people who've been working toward strengthening the community with a holistic body, mind and spirit approach, since 1860 in Kansas City.
