Act to Impact with Brandi DeVries

The Hidden Reality of Childhood Cancer Survivorship

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] What happens when surviving childhood cancer is only the beginning of the battle? In this deeply moving episode of Act to Impact, Brandi sits down with childhood cancer survivor, author, and advocate Mariah Forster Olson to talk about what life really looks like after treatment ends. Diagnosed with neuroblastoma at just one year old, Mariah endured years of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries before the age of three. While those treatments saved her life, they also left her facing lifelong and often debilitating late effects that continue to impact her daily life decades later. Today, Mariah has transformed her pain into purpose. As the author of Hope Over Despair and a leader across multiple childhood cancer nonprofit organizations, she uses her voice to raise awareness, advocate for better treatments, and support survivors navigating life after cancer. In this episode, Mariah shares her journey through survivorship, chronic pain, advocacy, infertility, mental health struggles, and the hope that continues to carry her forward. This conversation is a powerful reminder that childhood cancer does not end when treatment stops—and that every survivor’s story matters. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Mariah continues to create impact through courage, honesty, and hope. If this episode inspired you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review Act to Impact on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Your support helps amplify stories that inspire change and allows more people to discover conversations that matter. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear Mariah’s story and join us in creating greater awareness for the childhood cancer community. Connect with Mariah and learn more about her book Hope Over Despair here: 🌐 www.hopeoverdespair.com 💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF [https://cure.childrenscancer.org/fundraiser/5974649]! Take a moment today to share this episode with a friend, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, or subscribe on YouTube so more people can learn about this important issue. Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode! New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025. Thank you to guest Mariah Forester Olson. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbS1uZFZJeF9SaXZ1QlA4LTF2eGx6NGlGdFJvZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsMGZXZ2pWSWpZSlZxLUxkTmpDVzBLQjJhX0ZkQV9lU1dLU25xcGd2b3VzdzdMblF6cXR6SlFiSkJYZWNOVnlneC1wVzJzRUVxbG9MQ1Z6dVBpYWs3THM3WTZsalZzbGtxVzlRWGwyR1lMNDZ2eEk4aw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbrandi.devries%2F] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a]

How Perseverance Built a Crown

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] After competing four times, Bella finally earned the title of Miss South Dakota Teen USA 2025. But her story is about so much more than a crown. It’s about resilience, growth through rejection, and using your voice to create real impact. In this episode of Act to Impact, Bella shares how her journey shaped her mission around intergenerational connection—bridging the gap between younger and older generations in a world facing an epidemic of loneliness. With over 500 volunteer hours, a published children’s book, and a powerful vision for service, Bella is redefining what it means to lead with purpose. If you’ve ever felt discouraged, overlooked, or ready to give up—this conversation will remind you why you should keep going. ✨ KEY TAKEAWAYS  *  Growth doesn’t happen overnight—it happens through repeated effort and resilience  *  Rejection isn’t failure—it’s feedback that fuels your next level  *  You don’t need permission to serve—you just need to start  *  Intergenerational connection can combat the growing epidemic of loneliness  *  Small actions (like a phone call or visit) can make a life-changing impact  *  Consistency comes from scheduling what matters—treat service like an appointment  *  Your story, your voice, and your experiences have value—right now  *  Leadership isn’t about visibility—it’s about impact 💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF [https://cure.childrenscancer.org/fundraiser/5974649]! Take a moment today to share this episode with a friend, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, or subscribe on YouTube so more people can learn about this important issue. Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode! New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025. Thank you to guest Bella Puetz [https://www.instagram.com/_dearbellarose/]. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbS1uZFZJeF9SaXZ1QlA4LTF2eGx6NGlGdFJvZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsMGZXZ2pWSWpZSlZxLUxkTmpDVzBLQjJhX0ZkQV9lU1dLU25xcGd2b3VzdzdMblF6cXR6SlFiSkJYZWNOVnlneC1wVzJzRUVxbG9MQ1Z6dVBpYWs3THM3WTZsalZzbGtxVzlRWGwyR1lMNDZ2eEk4aw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbrandi.devries%2F] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a]

Mom on a Mission: Why Sun Safety Can’t Wait

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] In this episode of Act to Impact, Leah shares her journey from new mom to melanoma survivor—and how she’s now on a mission to make skin checks routine, sun safety non-negotiable, and awareness personal for families everywhere. Through her platform Make Derm Sure and her community advocacy work, Leah is helping parents understand that skin cancer doesn’t just happen later in life—it often starts with damage in childhood. From building a shade pavilion at her child’s school to teaching kids how to apply sunscreen like they brush their teeth, Leah is proof that small, consistent actions can save lives. If you’ve ever thought, “It won’t happen to me,” this conversation will change that—and show you exactly what to do next. 👉 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share this episode to help more families stay safe in the sun. 🔑 Key Takeaways * Skin cancer can start young. Melanoma isn’t just an “older adult” issue—damage often begins in childhood and adolescence.  * One simple appointment can save your life. Leah’s melanoma was caught during her first-ever skin check—scheduled only because her mom told her to go.  * Awareness isn’t enough—action matters. Scheduling a skin check, reapplying sunscreen, and noticing changes in your skin can make all the difference.  * Sunscreen should be a daily habit. Just like brushing your teeth, SPF—especially on your face—should be part of your everyday routine (yes, even on cloudy days).  * Reapplication is where most people get it wrong. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours—and after swimming or sweating.  * Advocacy can start small and grow big. Leah began by sharing her story and went on to raise funds and build a shade pavilion for her community.  * You don’t have to be an expert to make an impact. Start by sharing your story, making connections, and taking one step forward.  * Your voice could save someone’s life. Leah speaking up helped detect melanoma early in someone she knew—proof that conversations matter. Take a moment today to share this episode with a friend, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, or subscribe on YouTube so more people can learn about this important issue. Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode! New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025. Thank you to guest Leah Koskinen (@makedermsure) [https://www.instagram.com/makedermsure/] STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbS1uZFZJeF9SaXZ1QlA4LTF2eGx6NGlGdFJvZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsMGZXZ2pWSWpZSlZxLUxkTmpDVzBLQjJhX0ZkQV9lU1dLU25xcGd2b3VzdzdMblF6cXR6SlFiSkJYZWNOVnlneC1wVzJzRUVxbG9MQ1Z6dVBpYWs3THM3WTZsalZzbGtxVzlRWGwyR1lMNDZ2eEk4aw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbrandi.devries%2F] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a]

How Miss Minnesota USA Is Fighting for Girls’ Dignity

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] What if something as simple as a pad or tampon determined whether a girl could go to school? In this episode of Act to Impact, host Brandi DeVries sits down with Megan Rivera to discuss how she’s using her crown to break the stigma surrounding women’s health and advocate for girls around the world. Through her work with Days for Girls [https://www.daysforgirls.org/], Megan is helping ensure women and girls have access to feminine hygiene products and education — something many people take for granted.  Megan shares the moment that ignited her passion for this cause, the surprising statistics around period poverty in the United States, and how her platform as Miss Minnesota USA has amplified her ability to make an impact. This conversation sheds light on an issue many people don’t realize exists — and shows how small actions can help restore dignity, confidence, and opportunity for women and girls everywhere. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE • Period poverty affects millions of women and girls. Even in the United States, many cannot afford basic feminine hygiene products. • Access to menstrual products directly impacts education. Girls without supplies often miss school, which can limit their long-term opportunities. • Breaking stigma starts with conversation. Talking openly about women’s health helps normalize the topic and empowers girls. • The power of pageantry goes beyond the stage. Megan has used her title as Miss Minnesota USA to raise awareness and mobilize community support. • Small actions can create real change. Hosting donation drives, volunteering, or supporting organizations like Days for Girls can help women in your own community. • Advocacy doesn’t require perfection. It simply requires the willingness to speak up and take action. 💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF [https://cure.childrenscancer.org/fundraiser/5974649]! Take a moment today to share this episode with a friend, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, or subscribe on YouTube so more people can learn about this important issue. You can also support the mission of Days for Girls by donating menstrual products to a local women’s shelter or volunteering at a kit-building event in your community. Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode! New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025. Thank you to guest Megan Rivera [https://www.instagram.com/megan.rivera3?igsh=bnBmZmZlbjU4YThx&utm_source=qr].  STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbS1uZFZJeF9SaXZ1QlA4LTF2eGx6NGlGdFJvZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsMGZXZ2pWSWpZSlZxLUxkTmpDVzBLQjJhX0ZkQV9lU1dLU25xcGd2b3VzdzdMblF6cXR6SlFiSkJYZWNOVnlneC1wVzJzRUVxbG9MQ1Z6dVBpYWs3THM3WTZsalZzbGtxVzlRWGwyR1lMNDZ2eEk4aw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbrandi.devries%2F] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a]

The Secret to ‘Doing It All’ (DIML)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] If you’ve ever wondered how some women seem to do it all? This episode pulls back the curtain on my daily life.  In this solo episode of Act to Impact, Brandi DeVries shares a behind-the-scenes look at her daily routine as a working mom, wife, podcaster, and fitness enthusiast. From early morning habits to family dinners, gym time, and winding down at night, Brandi walks listeners through the systems that help her stay energized, focused, and present in every role she values most. But here’s the truth: no one is doing it all alone. Brandi shares how communication, teamwork, routines, and clear priorities allow her family to make life work together while while still leaving room for personal growth, wellness, and purpose. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to juggle work, motherhood, relationships, and self-care, this episode will leave you with practical ideas and encouragement to create a routine that works for your life and your season. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE • No one is doing it all alone. Behind every routine that works is communication, teamwork, and support. • Routines create freedom. Having a structure for mornings, work, workouts, and evenings reduces stress and decision fatigue. • Priorities change with seasons. What works during the school year may look different than summer — flexibility matters. • Small habits add up. Simple routines like preparing meals, time blocking tasks, or journaling each night can make a big impact. • Teamwork makes the dream work. Sharing responsibilities with your partner or family helps create balance for everyone. • Focus on three priorities each day. Brandi found a method keeps her focused and prevents overwhelm. • The goal isn’t perfection — it’s sustainability. The best routine is the one your family can maintain long term. 💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF [https://cure.childrenscancer.org/fundraiser/5974649]! Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode! New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbS1uZFZJeF9SaXZ1QlA4LTF2eGx6NGlGdFJvZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsMGZXZ2pWSWpZSlZxLUxkTmpDVzBLQjJhX0ZkQV9lU1dLU25xcGd2b3VzdzdMblF6cXR6SlFiSkJYZWNOVnlneC1wVzJzRUVxbG9MQ1Z6dVBpYWs3THM3WTZsalZzbGtxVzlRWGwyR1lMNDZ2eEk4aw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbrandi.devries%2F] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a]