Compassion in Action: Maisie Adams on Inclusion, Leadership & Impact

From Garage Project to 400,000 Beds: Luke Mickelson & the Power of Taking Action

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] What if one simple act of kindness could spark a worldwide movement? In Episode 33 of the Act to Impact podcast [https://www.instagram.com/acttoimpactpod/], host Brandi DeVries sits down with Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace [https://shpbeds.org/], the largest bed-building charity in the world. What started in Luke’s garage as a small service project with local kids has grown into a global nonprofit with more than 400 chapters, nearly 400,000 beds delivered, and one powerful mission: No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town. Luke shares the emotional story behind the movement, including the moment he met a little girl named Haley who had never slept in a bed before. He opens up about purpose, service, leadership, faith, community, and why taking one small action can completely change someone’s life — including your own. This episode will challenge you to look differently at the hidden crisis of child bedlessness and inspire you to discover how your own gifts and skills can make an impact right where you are. Key Takeaways from Episode 33 *  One small act of service can create a ripple effect far bigger than you ever imagined.  *  Child bedlessness impacts millions of children across the United States and often goes unseen.  *  A bed is more than furniture — it provides safety, dignity, confidence, and better sleep for children.  *  Service can help uncover purpose, passion, and fulfillment in your own life.  *  You don’t need special skills to make a difference — you just need the willingness to act.  *  Communities become stronger when people step up to help one another.  *  Luke’s “humans helping humans” philosophy proves that ordinary people can create extraordinary impact.  *  Taking action matters more than waiting until you feel fully prepared.  *  Sleep in Heavenly Peace now has 400+ chapters serving children across the U.S. and beyond.  *  Sometimes the greatest movements begin with one simple question: “What can I do to help?” 💛 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 Luke Mickelson [https://www.instagram.com/shpluke/]. 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] and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod [https://www.instagram.com/acttoimpactpod/] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a]

Compassion in Action: Maisie Adams on Inclusion, Leadership & Impact

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/fan_mail/new] At just 17 years old, Maisie Adams is proving that leadership, compassion, and impact have no age limit. In this inspiring episode of Act to Impact Podcast, Brandi sits down with the first runner-up at Miss Teen USA 2025 to talk about overcoming a childhood speech impediment, building confidence through pageantry, and using her platform “Compassion in Action: A Movement, Not a Moment” to create meaningful change. Maisie shares how volunteering with Best Buddies Minnesota and Special Olympics Minnesota sparked her passion for inclusion and community connection. From raising more than $41,000 for Best Buddies to helping lead inclusive events like the Dreaming Big Without Limits fashion show, Maisie is inspiring young people everywhere to use their voice, step outside their comfort zone, and take action. You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes moments from her experience competing at Miss Teen USA, what she’s learned through DECA and leadership, and why kindness backed by action can truly change lives. If this episode inspires you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs encouragement to start making an impact in their own community. Key Takeaways & Show Notes *  How Maisie Adams transformed a childhood speech impediment into a platform for advocacy and leadership  *  What competing at Miss Teen USA 2025 taught her about confidence, friendship, and resilience  *  Why inclusion and compassion became the foundation of her platform, “Compassion in Action”  *  How volunteering with Best Buddies Minnesota changed her perspective and inspired lifelong advocacy  *  The story behind raising more than $41,000 in six weeks to support inclusion programs  *  How the Dreaming Big Without Limits fashion show creates confidence and belonging for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities  *  Why action matters more than simply talking about kindness  *  How young people can begin volunteering and making a difference right now — even in high school  *  The importance of friendship, empathy, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued  *  Maisie’s advice for girls interested in pageantry, leadership, and community impact  *  How DECA, pageantry, and volunteerism helped shape her communication and leadership skills  *  Why “Compassion in Action” is meant to be a movement, not just a moment  💛 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 Maisie Adams. [https://www.instagram.com/maisiejaneadams/] 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] and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod [https://www.instagram.com/acttoimpactpod/] Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. [https://www.youtube.com/@brandi.devries] SPOTIFY [https://open.spotify.com/show/2PMCDjZEmo3Fkc3Y4fr4ZP?si=236b065c56ed449a] Edit This Episode [https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2423627/episodes/19106920-the-hidden-reality-of-childhood-cancer-survivorship/edit] Episode is Live Published: May. 13, 2026 @ 1AM [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/episodes/19106920/publish_date/edit] Edit [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/episodes/19106920/publish_date/edit] Add a Transcript [https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2423627/episodes/19106920-the-hidden-reality-of-childhood-cancer-survivorship/transcript/new] Add Chapter Markers [https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2423627/episodes/19106920-the-hidden-reality-of-childhood-cancer-survivorship/chapters] Create a Visual Soundbite [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/episodes/19106920/soundbites/new] Mid-Roll Placements [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/episodes/19106920-the-hidden-reality-of-childhood-cancer-survivorship/insertion_points] Share Link to Episode Episode Share URLCopy Direct Link to Audio Copy Download MP3 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423627/episodes/19106920-the-hidden-reality-of-childhood-cancer-survivorship.mp3?download=true] Embed Audio Player What's New [https://www.buzzsprout.com/new]

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]