INDY Foundation: Connecting through Cancer

INDY Foundation
  • 5.0 (8)
  • 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. 11H AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. JAN 13

    Be honored: The Challenge Means You are Being Prepared.

    Episode Summary: In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Kayla Keenan shares the story of losing her spouse to cancer and how that life-altering experience became the foundation for something bigger. Through raw reflection and deep insight, Kayla explores how grief became a catalyst for the creation of the INDY Foundation — a nonprofit supporting families affected by cancer. Listeners will hear how she reframed her suffering as sacred preparation for purpose, and why she believes challenges are not punishments but powerful opportunities to grow. She offers journal prompts designed to help you explore your own journey and uncover what your current challenge might be preparing you for. This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing adversity, searching for meaning, or learning to lead with heart after loss. Topics Covered: Kayla’s personal journey through cancer griefThe founding and mission of the INDY FoundationWhy challenges are often sacred preparationJournal prompts for reflection and healingFinding purpose through pain and communityChapters 00:00 Introduction and Series Overview 01:03 Personal Reflections on Loss and Growth 02:51 The Impact of Cancer and Community Support 06:54 Reframing Challenges and Finding Purpose 08:09 Journal Prompts for Self-Reflection 09:36 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes 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

    12 min

  7. JAN 6

    Choosing Calm Over Chaos: Responding vs. Reacting

    In this heartfelt New Year's episode, Kayla Keenan reflects on the challenges of returning to routine after the holidays and the importance of finding stillness amidst chaos. She recaps previous podcast episodes on learning from crises and the power of surrender before diving into the current theme of not reacting impulsively. Drawing from personal experiences, including her husband's cancer diagnosis, she illustrates the value of choosing calm over urgency. The episode concludes with thoughtful journal prompts encouraging listeners to explore their reactions and the quest for inner peace. 00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings 00:42 Recap of Previous Episodes 02:18 The Importance of Not Reacting 03:07 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons 07:14 Choosing Peace Over Urgency 08:56 Final Thoughts and Journal Prompts 11:19 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes 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

    13 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    Best of 2025: Powerful Stories of Connection Through Cancer

    In this special year-end episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan takes a heartfelt look back at the most powerful moments of 2025. Through emotional reflections and unforgettable stories, we revisit the central theme that has guided us all year: the irreplaceable value of human connection during a cancer journey. From the physical toll of treatment to the emotional weight of a diagnosis, this episode highlights the strength found in relationships—with family, friends, and even strangers. You’ll hear how love and community carried individuals through their darkest days, including a moving tribute to a young widow and her late husband, Kyle. We also share behind-the-scenes insights into the INDY Foundation’s mission and the personal journey that inspired it. Kayla reflects on the power of nonprofit support, community-driven care, and what it truly means to show up for one another. Whether you’ve been with us all year or are just joining the conversation, this episode is a powerful reminder that no one should walk through cancer alone. Tune in and celebrate the moments that moved us, the people who inspired us, and the connections that carried us forward. 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

    32 min
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About

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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