INDY Foundation: Connecting through Cancer

INDY Foundation
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  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer hosted by Kayla Keenan, founder of INDY Foundation, a non-profit located in central Minnesota. Here at INDY, we believe in supporting and connecting cancer warriors throughout their cancer journey. Our mission is to provide financial and community support to cancer warriors across Minnesota. Join us as we share inspiring stories, valuable resources and important updates to help you and your load ones navigate the challenges of cancer with strength and hope. Each episode will feature heartfelt conversations with cancer warriors, their families, and experts in the field, offering insights and encouragement for every step of the way. INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

  1. 3D AGO

    Women Supporting Women: The Heart of Babes, Wine & Galentines

    Takeaways Babes, Wine & Galentines is a women-focused fundraiser built on real connection, empowerment, and community support for cancer warriors.INDY Foundation (“I’m Not Done Yet”) provides direct financial support to local warriors, helping with real-life needs like gas to treatment, bills, and breathing room.The most powerful moments often happen behind the scenes: warriors bonding, holding hands, and feeling seen — sometimes for the first time in a long time.In this replay of Leveling Up With Lindsay, Courtney Studenski (Executive Director of INDY Foundation) shares how her family’s cancer journey led her into nonprofit leadership — and what it truly takes to run an organization rooted in both dignity and hope. The conversation dives into the heart behind INDY’s Babes, Wine & Galentines event: how warriors are selected, what the night means for those honored, and why community support can be life-changing long after the event ends. Key Topics Covered: Courtney’s personal connection to INDY Foundation and her husband’s Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosisWhat INDY stands for: “I’m Not Done Yet”Why Babes, Wine & Galentines is different from a typical fundraiserWarrior nominations, styling, hair/makeup, and the emotional “behind the curtain” momentsVolunteer committees and how people can help without feeling overwhelmedWhere fundraising dollars actually go (gas to appointments, bills, basic needs)2024 event impact: nearly $34,000 raised and the ripple effect it createsINDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

    44 min

  2. MAR 3

    Men of INDY: Breaking Comfort Zones to Fund Cancer Support

    Takeaways Community leadership means showing up—even when it’s outside your comfort zone.Men of INDY turns a fun runway moment into real dollars for cancer warrior support.Hearing warriors’ stories can shift your perspective and deepen your purpose.Babes, Wine & Galantines creates both an unforgettable night out and direct impact for families.One community event can raise significant funds and widen awareness for local cancer support.Courtney Studenski recaps INDY Foundation’s Babes, Wine & Galantines celebration with special guest Brandon Silgjord, Chief of Police for the City of Sartell. Brandon shares what it was like to participate in Men of INDY, why meeting the warriors changed him, and how stepping beyond “image” or “ego” can unlock real impact. Together, they reflect on the powerful emotional moments of the night, the community-wide effort behind the event, and the tangible support raised for Minnesota cancer warriors and their families. Key Topics Covered: Babes, Wine & Galantines event recap and mission impactMen of INDY runway fundraiser: stepping up, having fun, raising moneyCommunity leadership and why “showing up” mattersThe emotional power of warrior stories and meeting familiesBalancing professionalism with authentic community engagementEvent results and how donations directly support cancer warriorsHow to get involved with INDY Foundation as a leader, sponsor, or volunteerINDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

    14 min

  3. FEB 24

    The Best Birthdays Mark Impact: Using Your Life for Something Bigger

    Takeaways Birthdays are a celebration of existence—and a reminder that continuing is worth honoring.Use your birthday as a “pause button” to reflect on what you survived, learned, and want next.Turn celebration into purpose by choosing one act of giving that lifts someone else up.In this short, heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan reframes birthdays as something deeper than traditions and social posts. A birthday can be proof of survival—an annual checkpoint to reflect, reset, and honor the fact that you’re still here. Kayla also connects birthdays to purpose, challenging listeners to celebrate fully while choosing one meaningful act of service, encouragement, or giving that creates hope for someone else. Key Topics Covered: Why birthdays matter beyond cake, candles, and attentionBirthdays as proof of survival and a celebration of “continuing”Using birthdays as a moment of reflection and life resetCelebration as gratitude (not selfishness)Turning birthdays into purpose: giving, serving, and lifting othersThe “birthday challenge”: celebrate fully + choose one act of impactINDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

    7 min

  4. FEB 17

    Babes, Wine & Galentine’s Through a Volunteer’s Eyes

    Takeaways Galentine’s is designed to celebrate cancer warriors with confidence, community, and intentional support.Volunteers make the mission possible—from the smallest details to the biggest moments on stage.The INDY Impact is rooted in connection: reminding families facing cancer that they are not alone. Courtney Studenski, Executive Director of the INDY Foundation, sits down with her cousin Alyssa for a Galentine’s recap from a volunteer’s perspective. They share what goes into planning and executing INDY’s signature girls’ night celebrating women battling cancer—plus the behind-the-scenes work that creates unforgettable moments for warriors and their families. The conversation highlights the power of community, the emotion of honoring a warrior who passed away, and the fun fundraising tradition of the Men of INDY. Alyssa also shares why she volunteers and encourages anyone considering it to jump in—there’s a place for every schedule and skill set. Key Topics Covered: Galentine’s event mission: celebrating women (young and adult) battling cancerA volunteer’s “why” and how giving back can also refill your own cupBehind-the-scenes planning: detail, teamwork, and volunteer coordinationWarrior experience: confidence, family moments, and meaningful connectionTribute to Nikki Langer and the power of community through griefMen of INDY and the event’s fundraising impact for Minnesota cancer warriorsHow to get involved as an INDY volunteer (weekly, committee, or day-of)INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

    14 min

  5. FEB 10

    Coming Home to Yourself: Redefining Confidence Through Cancer

    Takeaways Confidence after cancer is a daily practice, not a destinationChoosing yourself is essential for healing and survivalOld habits returning doesn’t mean failure — awareness creates growthIn this episode, Kayla Keenan explores what confidence really looks like after cancer and trauma. Rather than being fearless, confidence is about self-trust, awareness, and choosing yourself again and again. Listeners are reminded that healing isn’t linear and that they are not broken — they are becoming. Key Topics Covered: Redefining confidence after cancerChoosing yourself after traumaHealing, identity, and self-trustBoundaries, rest, and emotional awarenessComing home to yourself after survivorshipWhether you're navigating cancer, grief, identity shifts, or simply looking to reconnect with your true self, this episode is for you. INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

    5 min

  6. FEB 3

    Coming Home to Yourself: Finding Confidence After Grief, Trauma, and Cancer

    In this heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan kicks off a powerful new mini-series: Coming Home to Yourself. Kayla shares her deeply personal story of becoming a widow in her late 20s and how that season of profound grief unexpectedly became the foundation for quiet, unshakable confidence. This episode dives into: How grief, trauma, and cancer can lead to personal transformationWhy confidence is often born from loss, not successLetting go of perfection, people-pleasing, and the need for approvalThe importance of protecting your peace and reclaiming your identityReal stories of cancer warriors who rediscovered themselves post-diagnosisWhether you're navigating cancer, grief, identity shifts, or simply looking to reconnect with your true self, this episode is for you. INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

    5 min

  7. JAN 29

    More Than a Makeover: INDY’s Mission to Uplift Cancer Warriors

    In this heartfelt episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan shares the powerful mission and inspiration behind INDY Foundation’s signature Valentine’s event: Babes, Wine & Galentines. This annual celebration, now in its fourth year, is dedicated to honoring Minnesota’s cancer warriors—women who are navigating or have survived cancer. More than just a fun night out, this event is a moving blend of community, compassion, confidence, and connection. In this episode, you’ll hear: The story behind the Babes, Wine & Galentines event and why it mattersHow local businesses like White Peony Boutique are helping warriors reclaim their confidenceThe emotional impact of the makeover experience on women battling cancerA behind-the-scenes look at the transformations, tears, and triumphsHow community support, sponsorships, and volunteers make this night possibleWays you can get involved, attend, or support this cause Whether you're a supporter of cancer nonprofits, a lover of Galentine’s events, or someone who believes in the power of women supporting women, this episode will inspire you to lead with love and take action. Event Info: Babes, Wine & Galentines 2026 Thursday, February 12 | Park Event Center, Waite Park, MN

    11 min

  8. JAN 21

    Breakthrough After Crisis – 6 Life Lessons from the Cancer Journey

    In this milestone 70th episode, host Kayla Keenan wraps up a powerful six-part series on navigating life through cancer, grief, and transformation. Drawing from her personal experience as a young caregiver and widow, Kayla shares six profound lessons she learned through crisis—insights that reshaped her identity, strengthened her faith, and revealed her purpose. Whether you're currently facing a cancer diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or healing from loss, this episode offers hope, clarity, and real-life tools for emotional resilience and personal growth. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How faith becomes a daily act of surrender and strength during hard timesWhy your identity can and should evolve after traumaThe importance of setting boundaries to protect your energy and well-beingHow practicing gratitude grounds you when life feels unsteadyThe transformative power of compassion and empathy for yourself and othersHow purpose can emerge from pain—and lead to profound impactKayla also reflects on the emotional journey of starting the INDY Foundation and the unexpected healing it brought. If you’ve ever wondered how to find light after loss, this episode is a must-listen. Journal Prompts Shared in the Episode: What signs of progress, no matter how small, have you noticed?What have you learned about resilience, faith, or identity through your season of struggle?What dreams now feel closer than before?Who has supported you—and how can you honor that connection?If today marked a breakthrough, what’s one step forward you could take?Join the INDY Foundation Community: We’re more than a podcast—we’re a movement. Learn how to support cancer warriors, attend our upcoming Bow Ties & Arrows Gala (Feb 12) and Valentine’s Celebration (Mar 28), and stay connected through our website and social platforms.

    14 min
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Welcome to the INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer hosted by Kayla Keenan, founder of INDY Foundation, a non-profit located in central Minnesota. Here at INDY, we believe in supporting and connecting cancer warriors throughout their cancer journey. Our mission is to provide financial and community support to cancer warriors across Minnesota. Join us as we share inspiring stories, valuable resources and important updates to help you and your load ones navigate the challenges of cancer with strength and hope. Each episode will feature heartfelt conversations with cancer warriors, their families, and experts in the field, offering insights and encouragement for every step of the way. INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/ Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

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