PWRD by Purpose with Brandi DeVries

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In this episode, host Brandi DeVries welcomes Feroza Mehta, the reigning Mrs. Minnesota International 2026. Feroza shares her compelling journey from a career in journalism to becoming a powerful advocate for autism awareness through her platform, Never Too Late. Discover how Feroza's personal experiences with late autism diagnosis have fueled her mission to shine a light on the often-overlooked stories of women and girls. Join us as we explore themes of resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of self-discovery.

Key Takeaways 

• Empowerment Through Advocacy: Feroza Mehta uses her platform to raise awareness about late autism diagnosis in women, emphasizing that it's never too late to seek understanding and clarity.
• Breaking Stereotypes: Feroza challenges common misconceptions about autism, advocating for a broader understanding of the spectrum and its diverse presentations.
• Personal Journey: Feroza shares her personal story of self-discovery and acceptance, highlighting the importance of recognizing and embracing one's unique identity.
• Community and Support: The episode underscores the value of community support and the role it plays in empowering individuals to share their stories and make a difference.

💛 Are you inspired to take action? Approach life with an open heart, educate themselves about autism, and support initiatives that foster inclusivity and understanding.

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!

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 Feroza Mehta.

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod

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What if one simple act of kindness could spark a worldwide movement?

In Episode 33 of the Act to Impact podcast, host Brandi DeVries sits down with Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, 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!

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.

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod

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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!

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.

STAY CONNECTED.
IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod
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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!

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.

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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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.

•  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!

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.

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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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)

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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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, 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.

• 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!

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. 

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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.

• 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!

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.

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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What if preparing students for college could also prepare them to change the world?

In this powerful episode of Act to Impact, host Brandi DeVries sits down with Shellee Howard, Founder and CEO of College Ready and Empower Education, to explore how education can be a catalyst for lifelong purpose and global impact.

Shellee has helped more than 3,000 students gain acceptance into their dream schools and secure over $40 million in scholarships, but her mission didn’t stop at college admissions. After a life-changing trip to Uganda, Shelley launched Empower Education, a nonprofit that removes barriers to learning for children in underserved communities around the world.

In this conversation, Shellee shares how a single moment sparked the creation of schools in Uganda, how student-led passion projects are transforming lives globally, and why helping young people identify their “why” is just as important as test scores and GPAs. 

If you’re a parent, educator, or someone who believes in using your gifts to make an impact, this episode will inspire you to think differently about education, leadership, and what’s truly possible.

💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode

• Education is more than academics — it’s about helping students discover who they are, what matters to them, and how they can serve others.
• Teenagers want to make an impact, but often don’t know how—guidance and opportunity unlock their potential.
• Student-led initiatives create exponential ripple effects, empowering both the giver and the receiver.
• Access to education changes entire communities, especially when barriers for girls and underserved populations are removed.
• Purpose-driven service strengthens college applications while also shaping future careers and leaders.
• Small actions can spark global change—one conversation, one trip, or one “yes” can alter countless lives.

👉 Parents of middle or high school students: Visit collegereadyplan.info to take advantage of Shellee’s free 30-minute consultation and help your student discover their purpose, passion, and path forward.

💛 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!

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 Shellee Howard. Listen to her podcast "Parents: Is Your Teen College Ready?"

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Just three weeks after welcoming her daughter into the world, Melissa Kultgen was diagnosed with Stage 2C melanoma—after four doctors told her the spot on her lip was “nothing to worry about.”

In this powerful episode of Act to Impact, host Brandi DeVries sits down with Melissa, now seven years cancer-free, and Debbie Churgai, Education Program Manager at the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), to talk about why trusting your instincts matters, how early sun damage impacts lifelong health, and why prevention starts in childhood.

Melissa shares her journey from growing up in toxic tanning culture to becoming a melanoma survivor, educator, and ambassador for SunAware, MRF’s free K–5 sun safety curriculum. Together, they unpack practical ways families can protect their skin, build confidence, and teach kids that sun safety is about celebrating your skin—not fearing the sun.

✨ Key Takeaways

• You are your best health advocate. If something looks or feels off, trust your instincts and act quickly.
• Most sun damage happens before age 18, making early education critical in melanoma prevention.
• Monthly self-skin checks using the ABCDEs of melanoma can catch changes earlier than annual exams alone.
• Sun safety is a daily habit, just like brushing your teeth—not just a summer thing.
• SunAware empowers kids to protect their skin while feeling confident, capable, and proud of who they are.
• Advocacy doesn’t have to be big—small actions can create powerful ripple effects in your community.

🎯 Act to Impact Call to Action

Want to turn awareness into action?

👉 Explore the FREE SunAware program from the Melanoma Research Foundation—available to parents, schools, youth groups, and communities nationwide.
👉 Use it at home to teach your kids simple, lifelong sun-safe habits.
👉 Share it with your child’s teacher, school nurse, principal, or local youth organization.

🔗 Learn more and access the curriculum for SunAWARE.

💛 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!

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 Melissa Kultgen. 

STAY CONNECTED.
IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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