1856 Podcast-YMCA of South Hampton Roads

Live from the 2026 Women’s Leadership Summit, this episode of the 1856 Podcast celebrates the real journeys behind powerful women in leadership. Through stories of motherhood, career shifts, mentorship, and personal growth, our guests share what it looks like to juggle it all while staying grounded in purpose. From “fail fast” mindsets to vision books, networking with intention, and letting go of...

In this special and long-awaited episode of the 1856 Podcast , host Rodrigua Ross flips the mic and spotlights someone who is usually behind the soundboard— Kait Eusebio Johnson , Chair of the Asian Pacific Islander Leadership Network (APILN) Employee Resource Group at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and Vice Chair of the National APILN. This candid and thoughtful conversation explores what it mea...

In this powerful and deeply affirming episode of the 1856 Podcast , host Rodrigua Ross sits down with the incomparable Dr. Eisha Williamson , Chair of the BOLD African American Employee Resource Group at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads . Dr. Williamson—mental health professional, entrepreneur, real estate developer, former NFL dancer, pageant titleholder, and purpose-driven leader—shares her journ...

In this empowering episode of The 1856 Podcast , host Rodrigua Ross sits down with Kristen Howard , Vice President of Public Relations and Chair of ForevHer , the YMCA’s Employee Resource Group for women. Kristen shares her journey from male-dominated spaces—military life, veteran nonprofits, and a house full of boys—to leading a community dedicated to sisterhood, confidence, and opportunity for w...

In this powerful episode of The 1856 Podcast , host Rodrigua Ross digs into the vital role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and how they shape the future of organizations. Today’s spotlight is on RISE—Rising Innovators Sustaining Excellence , the YMCA of South Hampton Roads’ ERG for staff ages 35 and under. Rodrigo sits down with the dynamic and inspiring Jasmine Wilson , Youth Development Direc...

On this episode of 1856 , host Rodrigua Ross sits down with Dr. Stenette Byrd , Chair of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads’ Mission Advancement Committee and Chief of Schools for Suffolk Public Schools. Together, they dive into the power of giving—of time, talent, and treasure —and how intentional leadership and belonging shape stronger communities. From Dr. Byrd’s lifelong connection to the Y to hi...

What does a Chief Volunteer Officer (CVO) actually do—and what does dark chocolate have to do with it? Find out as Rodrigua Ross hosts Steve Romine , CVO of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads , for a fun and insightful conversation about leadership, impact, and living the Y’s mission every day.

Welcome to 1856 , a brand-new podcast brought to you by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. And what better way to launch than with the story of our own President & CEO, Anthony Walters ? Host Rodrigua Ross takes us through Anthony’s Y journey — from a teen sneaking into the Y to a leader guiding one of the most dynamic YMCA associations in the country.