My Y

Tony Ayala is one of those members of our area YMCAs who uses almost every type of program offered.  Child care, classes, group activities.  You name it and Tony has probably been a part of it.  Enjoy the conversation, and just be warned, you won't need any caffeine afterwards. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are so many ways that you can get fit, stay fit, get your heart rate up and make fast friends.  Group Fitness Classes are a great way to exercise and socialize at the same time.  And most are included as part of your membership.  Listen in to the Director of Group Fitness and a couple of true believers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of My Y we'll take a look back at 2025 with most of the Development Team from the Y, Nikki West, KJ McMillan, and Becca Zajkowski.  All in all, it was a very good year.  Great people, great programs, lots of success to talk about.  And a few, let's call them....adventures along the way.  Of course the one constant is "we have to do better next year".  With that in mind we'll also take a peek at 2026.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now you can do even more at the Houser Y in Onalaska than swim, work out, walk and have fun with your family.  You can stop into the Grounded Coffee Shop right inside the Y.  It's an outside the boxy idea that has been a win for everyone.  It's a lively conversation with Jenny Ludwigson, Operations Director for the La Crosse Area Y facilities, Maria Norberg, owner of Grounded Coffee and Jen Wallace, manager of the Houser Grounded location.  We talk coffee a lot, workouts a little, and this unique community partnership.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of My Y we talk with 7 time world champion log roller Livi Pappadopolous.  She's an active competitor and one of the great coaches at our La Crosse Area Y.  She brought along Lydia, a young protege and Trevor Tiegs from the Y also joins the conversation.  Log rolling certainly may seem like a niche sport but it's a big part of the aquatic program at the La Crosse area Y.  And there's a new era beginning for Coulee Region Log Rolling and the Y.  It's an exciting and fun conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of My Y, we spotlight the La Crosse Area Family YMCA’s groundbreaking STEM and eSports programs. Learn how their programs began, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the powerful impact they’re having on young people. From PC building and programming to astronomy, video production, and eSports, discover how the La Crosse Area Family Y is sparking curiosity, building confidence, and preparing the next generation for a tech-driven future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, we spotlight the La Crosse Area Family YMCA's vital food program! Join us with special guests Jennie Melde, Director of Community Outreach, and Courtney Kramolis, Food Access Director. Discover how the Y is combatting food insecurity in La Crosse and the surrounding area, particularly during the critical summer months. Learn about their innovative strategies, the significant impact on local families, and how community support fuels this essential initiative. Hear firsthand about the passion and dedication driving this program, ensuring nutritious meals reach those who need them most.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we dive into the incredible summer programming at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA! From swim activities and 剣道 ( kendo) to exciting day camps and the ukelele (yes, the ukelele!), discover how the Y offers engaging activities for all ages, keeping everyone active and learning all season long.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for a vital conversation with Anna Stindt, Mental Health Director at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA. We'll explore the Y's commitment to holistic well-being, delving into their innovative programs that address mental health for all ages.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode highlights the Y's 200 Club, celebrating members with 200+ yearly visits. Hear inspiring stories from Mia and Jaryd--two dedicated 200 Club individuals--about what makes the YMCA a vital part of their lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two young mothers find strength and camaraderie as they navigate cancer recovery together through the Livestrong program at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA, discovering both physical healing and a lasting friendship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "My Y," we explore Richard Kyte's concept of "third places" and how the La Crosse Area Family YMCA fosters those vital community connections beyond home and work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.