Saratoga YMCA CEO Allison D’Antonio “The Y brings people together, and what they do with it is everything.” Saratoga YMCA CEO Allison D’Antonio shares how that connection turns into real impact across the 518, where kids grow confidence, families find support, and everyday moments quietly build something bigger.

This episode is sponsored by Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region.

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How to Craft a Winning Podcast Elevator Pitch. Start by answering these 3 questions: What is your show? Who is it for? Why does it matter?

Have you heard of the Saratoga Springs Facebook group with more than 50,000 members?

How do you balance a full-time career in law enforcement with leading a 10-week community fundraising mission that mobilizes an entire region?

Finding Purpose beyond Perfection. High schooler Shreya Sharath shares what it has meant to grow up surrounded by support, opportunities, and expectations as she figures out who she wants to become.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shreya and Girls Inc.

01:46 Shreya's Journey with Girls Inc.

07:04 The Impact of Community and Support

08:57 Shreya's Writing Journey: The Hidden Realm

17:59 Founding Gleebox: A Mission of Dignity

21:52 Coping with Success and Imposter Syndrome

23:02 Exploring Favorite Shows and Books

25:30 The Importance of Friendships

28:16 Engagement in Community Advocacy

31:18 Youth Leadership and Political Advocacy

37:34 Inspiring Connections and Personal Growth

42:36 Rapid Fire Fun and Personal Preferences

Life isn’t always neat, and neither is camp. This week, Daniel, Camp Director at Camp Stomping Grounds, shares how kids build resilience, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence by taking risks and making mistakes. Summer at Camp Stomping Ground is a little messy, a lot of fun, and full of life lessons. When kids are encouraged to jump in, explore, and sometimes stumble, they discover independence, connection, and the real joy of learning, because growth happens when you do, not just watch.

This episode is sponsored by Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region.

After losing her son, Heather Straughter cofounded Jake’s Help From Heaven with her husband, Brian Straughter. Together, they have built a nonprofit that has raised over $2 million to provide resources and support to families with children facing complex medical needs. The organization offers funding for adaptive equipment, medical travel, assistive technology, and essential supplies. Helping to fill critical gaps that insurance often does not cover.

Jake’s Help From Heaven has helped over 500 families throughout the Capital Region, creating programs like an equipment exchange where families can borrow or receive gently used adaptive items. The nonprofit works closely with local partners, including the Dake Foundation and Stewarts, to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Heather also shares insights from her podcast, A Place of Yes, which explores grief, resilience, and connection, reminding families that they are not alone even in life’s most difficult moments.

Learn more, get involved, or apply for support at jakeshelpfromheaven.org.

This episode is sponsored by Girls Inc of the Greater Capital Region.

Inspired by her family’s southern-style comfort cooking, Allie B has now brought her mac and cheese to stores across the capital region and beyond. She shares with us her journey of balancing a family while building a business, and the importance of giving back to her community that supports her. 

To find out more:

https://www.alliebscozykitchen.com/

https://alliebsrestaurants.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Good Stuff and Ali B

06:08 Ali B's Journey and the Birth of Her Restaurant

11:51 The Story Behind Ali B's Mac and Cheese

18:06 Community Impact and Giving Back

23:58 Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges

30:00 The Importance of Community and Connection

36:10 Believing in Yourself and Inspiring Others

This episode is sponsored by Girls Inc of the Greater Capital Region.

What does it take to start something new and put yourself out there? Pat shares his journey from a fun side project, visiting diners and sharing their stories, to building a social media platform that is bringing life back to local diners.

This episode is sponsored by Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region.

Ashli Fragomeni, CEO of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region, leads one of the longest-running girls’ leadership organizations in the country, helping girls become strong, smart, and bold.