Act to Impact with Brandi DeVries

Brandi DeVries
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Biweekly

This show will fuel your fire within to make an impact in the world. It will ignite action to become aware of your untapped gifts, connect with causes close to your heart, and inspire you to take action to make a lasting impact. Brandi is a long-time advocate and fundraiser for a national non-profit and is dedicated to introducing you to stories of hope, resilience, and community from the pediatric cancer community and impact makers around the world that will inspire your purpose to make an impact.

  1. Aug 5

    How One Mom Leads Through Fear After Her Son's Rare Diagnosis

    Send us Fan Mail When Mariah Swanson's son, Marcus, was diagnosed with GRIN2A, a rare genetic disorder affecting brain cell communication, her world shifted overnight. As a wife, mother, corporate leader, and advocate, Mariah suddenly found herself balancing uncertainty at home while continuing to lead confidently at work. In this heartfelt episode of Act to Impact, Mariah shares the emotional journey of navigating fear, redefining success, and discovering resilience through life's unexpected challenges. She opens up about the power of community, the importance of celebrating small victories, and why hope doesn't eliminate fear—it gives you the strength to keep moving forward. Whether you're a parent, leader, caregiver, or simply walking through a difficult season, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to have all the answers to lead with courage. In this episode, you'll discover:  What it's like receiving a rare disease diagnosis for your child  How to lead at work while carrying personal struggles  Practical ways to balance fear with hope  Why celebrating small victories changes everything  The importance of community and asking for help  How advocacy can create purpose from pain 💛 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 Mariah Swanson. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

  2. Jul 22

    She Escaped War, Became a Doctor, and Is on a Mission to Prevent Colon Cancer

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Veronica Gagovic shares her inspiring journey from Bosnia to becoming a gastroenterologist and Mrs. Bosnia International. She discusses the importance of early detection, prevention, and education in colon health, and how her platform is making a global impact. Key topics Colon cancer prevention and early detectionThe impact of social media in health educationCreating community impact through advocacyThe importance of starting health education early in childhoodPersonal journey from Bosnia to the United States💛 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 Dr. Veronika Gagovic  - The Colon Health Project IG: @drgagovicgastroenterology @mrsbosniainternational STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

  3. Jul 8

    The Self-Check That Could Save Your Life | Mrs. International 2025 Phaedra Pistone

    Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Brandi DeVries interviews Phaedra Pistone, a two-time breast cancer survivor and Mrs. International 2025, who has transformed her personal battle into a global health advocacy campaign. Phaedra discusses her journey through cancer, the importance of early detection, and how her experiences in pageantry have provided her with a platform to empower women. The conversation highlights the significance of sharing personal stories, the impact of community support, and the need to redefine perceptions of pageantry as a means of advocacy and purpose. Takeaways Phaedra Pistone is a two-time breast cancer survivor and health advocate.Her campaign, Check Your Two on the Second, promotes early detection.Pageantry can serve as a powerful platform for advocacy.Personal stories can inspire and save lives.Women often feel pressure to keep their health struggles private.Community support is crucial for those battling cancer.Phaedra emphasizes the importance of self-checks for breast health.She encourages women to share their stories to help others.The journey through cancer can lead to a greater sense of purpose.You don't need a title or diagnosis to 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 Phaedra Pistone. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

  4. Jun 24

    Never Too Late: Feroza Mehta's Journey to Impact

    Send us Fan Mail 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. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

  5. Jun 10

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

    Send us Fan Mail 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. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries and instagram.com/acttoimpactpod Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

  6. Episode 32 Trailer

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

    Send us Fan Mail 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 Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY Edit This Episode Episode is Live Published: May. 13, 2026 @ 1AM Edit Add a Transcript Add Chapter Markers Create a Visual Soundbite Mid-Roll Placements Share Link to Episode Episode Share URLCopy Direct Link to Audio Copy Download MP3 Embed Audio Player What's New

  7. May 13

    The Hidden Reality of Childhood Cancer Survivorship

    Send us Fan Mail 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. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

  8. Apr 29

    How Perseverance Built a Crown

    Send us Fan Mail 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! 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. STAY CONNECTED. IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now. SPOTIFY

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About

This show will fuel your fire within to make an impact in the world. It will ignite action to become aware of your untapped gifts, connect with causes close to your heart, and inspire you to take action to make a lasting impact. Brandi is a long-time advocate and fundraiser for a national non-profit and is dedicated to introducing you to stories of hope, resilience, and community from the pediatric cancer community and impact makers around the world that will inspire your purpose to make an impact.

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