INDY Foundation: Connecting through Cancer

Takeaways

In this special episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer, the team shares short but meaningful audio moments captured at the Bowties and Arrows Gala 2026. Community members, supporters, and founder Kayla Kean reflect on what INDY means to them, with recurring themes of love, connection, and showing up for others during the cancer journey. This episode offers a heartfelt look at...

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In part 3 of this INDY Foundation mini series, Kayla Keenan closes out the series with a heartfelt reflection on renewal, purpose, and the impact of supporting cancer warriors. She shares the deeper meaning behind the Bo...

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In part 2 of this mini series, Kayla Keenan shares how INDY Foundation creates meaningful moments for cancer warriors. From outfit try-ons and backstage connection to runway experiences with family and friends, this event goes beyond fundraising to offer hope, confidence, and emotional support. This episode is a reminder that showing up with...

Takeaways

In Part 1 of this three-part mini series, Kayla Keenan shares the heart behind INDY Foundation’s Bowties and Arrows Gala and why gathering matters so much in the cancer journey. Framed around the theme of spring renewal, this episode reflects on the foundation’s mission to ensure n...

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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...

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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 parti...

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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...

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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 a...

Takeaways

In 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:

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:

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:

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:

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 jo...

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...

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 yo...

The video reflects on Kyle's impactful life, emphasizing his legacy of kindness and leadership. It shares an essay written by Grayson, the son of Kyle's friend and coworker, highlighting Kyle's influence on him. The essay recounts Kyle's welcoming nature, mentorship, and the life-altering advice he provided. Even during his illness, Kyle's mental strength and kindness remained strong, teaching Grayson invaluable lessons about the true meaning of strength and making a lasting impact on his life.

00:00 A Birthday to Remember

00:21 Kyle's Legacy Lives On

00:32 Grayson's Essay on Kyle

01:36 Memories of Kyle

In this deeply heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan explores what it truly means to surrender during a cancer journey.

Drawing from her personal experience as a caregiver to her fiancé Kyle, who battled stage four colon cancer, Kayla shares the emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges that come with letting go of what we cannot control—money, image, control itself, timelines, and even the illusion of safety.

Topics covered in this episode:

The episode addresses the personal struggles that can often overshadow the joy of holidays, particularly for those affected by crises like illness or loss. The speaker introduces a new series reflecting on life's challenging chapters and how such hardships shape and prepare an individual for what comes next. Sharing a deeply personal story about her husband's diagnosis and passing, she discusses the emotional journey and coping mechanisms, emphasizing that crises are opportunities for growth. The episode concludes with journal prompts designed to help listeners process their experiences and emotions.

00:00 Introduction: Navigating Personal Crisis

00:39 The Hardest...

In this Thanksgiving-themed episode of the INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, we reflect on gratitude, connection, and the strength of families facing cancer. The episode highlights the story of a young family from Central Minnesota navigating the challenges of stage three breast cancer, emphasizing the vital support provided by the Indie Foundation. Through emotional narratives and heartfelt messages, the podcast underscores the importance of community, donor contributions, and volunteer efforts, showcasing how these elements bring hope, relief, and moments of joy to families during difficult times.

00:00 Welcome to the INDY Foundation Podcast

00:28 The Struggles...

In this episode of the INDY Foundation Podcast, we delve into the profound impact of loss on our lives. The host reflects on their personal experience of becoming a widow and how loss reshapes our perception of life, highlighting the significance of small moments, the fragility of time, and the importance of being present. The episode offers a compassionate message to those who have experienced loss, encouraging them to honor their grief and the new perspectives it brings, while acknowledging the growth, strength, and clarity that emerge from such life-altering experiences.

00:00 Introduction to the INDY Foundation Podcast<...

In this heartfelt conversation, the Kayla and Mitch Keenan discuss the complexities of navigating life after the loss of a loved one, the challenges of building a new relationship, and the importance of open communication. They share personal stories about grief, guilt, and the support of family and community, as well as the impact of the INDY Foundation. The discussion emphasizes the lessons learned from grief and offers advice for those in similar situations, highlighting the importance of embracing life and love despite past losses.

Takeaways

This episode of Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, brought to you by the INDY Foundation, highlights the importance of November as a month of giving. The foundation emphasizes the power of generosity and gratitude in supporting cancer warriors and their families. Listeners are encouraged to give in various ways, such as donating, sharing the mission, and volunteering. The episode also introduces the INDY Giving Tree initiative in partnership with White Peonyi Boutique, aimed at fulfilling Christmas wishes for those battling cancer. The foundation's overarching message is that every act of kindness has a significant impact, transforming communities by showing that...

In this special Pink-tober episode, the focus is on breast cancer awareness and the unique approach of the INDY Foundation. The statistics reveal the widespread impact of breast cancer, but the INDY Foundation emphasizes the importance of community connection and action. Highlighting local initiatives, the episode details events like the Think Pink for Indie, where the community gathers to support cancer warriors and provides financial aid. The episode also shares touching personal stories, such as Corey’s journey, showcasing the profound effect of community support. The INDY Foundation's mission is to transform awareness into tangible support, stressing that while pi...

In this special replay episode, we’re revisiting an important and heartfelt conversation that originally aired on Leveling Up with Lindsay. Lindsay sits down with Kayla Keenan, the founder of the INDY Foundation, to share a story that continues to inspire and uplift the INDY community today.

Kayla opens up about her journey after losing her husband, Kyle, to stage four colon cancer—and how that tragedy led to the creation of the INDY Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer warriors and their families throughout Minnesota. She discusses the power of finding purpose in pain, the role...

In this week's episode of 'Connecting Through Cancer,' Courtney Studenski welcomes back her husband Caleb, a beloved guest whose previous episode remains the podcast's most-listened-to. They discuss the unique challenges faced by young adults dealing with cancer, focusing on Caleb's experience with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Diagnosed at 25 and while serving in the military, Caleb underwent treatment while managing family responsibilities. They explore themes of feeling out of place in treatment centers, the mental and physical toll of chemotherapy, and the emotional complexities of 'the forgotten crowd' aged 18-40. The conversation highlights the importance of self-advocacy, the long road to...

In the final episode of this mini-series, the host discusses the concept of leaving a legacy of love. They emphasize that legacy isn't just about what we leave behind, but how we live today. With practical tips such as being present, sharing your story, creating memories, practicing generosity, and speaking love out loud, the episode encourages listeners to make everyday moments count. The host shares touching anecdotes and illustrates the impact of love through simple acts. The episode concludes with a challenge to the audience: What small act of love can you give today that might become part of...

In this episode, the host explores the concept of courage when facing the unknown, particularly in the context of a cancer diagnosis or any major life challenge. Key strategies discussed include taking deep breaths, anchoring in the present, journaling or praying, leaning on a support network, and celebrating small acts of bravery. The episode emphasizes that courage is not the absence of fear but the choice to keep moving forward despite it. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on small ways they can practice courage in their own lives.

00:00 Introduction and Series Recap

00:16 Facing the Unknown<...

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer Podcast by INDY Foundation, host Kayla Keenan builds on the previous discussion about finding joy in the journey by focusing on the significance of community and connection. Kayla shares her personal experiences, illustrating why community support is vital for those affected by cancer. She offers practical tips for fostering connections and creating support networks, emphasizing that even small gestures can have a profound impact. Kayla underscores that joy multiplies in the presence of community, and she encourages listeners to reach out and build connections, reminding them that the INDY Foundation is...

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer podcast, host Kayla Keenan discusses the importance of finding joy amidst life's challenges, particularly during a cancer journey. She emphasizes that joy is not reserved for perfect moments but can be found in small, everyday experiences. The conversation explores practical ways to cultivate joy, such as practicing gratitude, leaning into supportive connections, celebrating small wins, creating rituals, and allowing oneself to play. The episode concludes with a reminder that joy can be discovered in unexpected places and that it is about being present rather than seeking perfection.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer podcast, host Kayla Keenan reflects on the first year of the INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, sharing stories of cancer warriors, caregivers, and the community that has formed around them. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support, understanding what to say to those diagnosed with cancer, and the roles caregivers play. The episode also discusses the mission of the INDY Foundation, the impact of their annual gala, and the reflections on life and legacy, culminating in a poignant question about what one's obituary would say.

Takeaways

In this final episode of the Back to School miniseries, Kayla Keenan delves into the emotional challenges parents and children face, particularly when dealing with significant life changes like starting kindergarten or battling cancer. The episode emphasizes the importance of helping children articulate their feelings, providing strategies for creating safe spaces for kids to express emotions. It covers recognizing emotional shifts in children, using play and art for expression, and answering tough questions honestly but gently. Through shared stories and practical tips, the host highlights the crucial role of parents in fostering resilience and emotional well-being in their children.<...

In this episode, we explore the importance of creating new routines during challenging times, such as a cancer diagnosis or other major life changes. The discussion highlights how adjusted routines can provide stability and comfort for both children and adults. Tips for maintaining practical, flexible routines are shared, along with stories of families finding their 'new normal'. The episode emphasizes the importance of small steps, realistic expectations, and giving oneself grace in the process. Listeners are encouraged to celebrate small victories and understand that consistency, not perfection, is key to navigating change.

00:00 Introduction and Finding the New...

This episode discusses the emotional and practical aspects of preparing for the back-to-school season, especially for parents facing health challenges like cancer. The speaker, a first-time mom, reflects on the mixed emotions of sending her child off to kindergarten while managing a cancer diagnosis. She shares tips for smooth morning routines, the importance of accepting help, and the significance of small rituals and emotional preparation for both parents and children. The episode concludes with heartfelt stories and encouragement for parents to cherish these moments despite life's challenges, emphasizing the courage and resilience needed for this new school year.

Kayla Keenan and board member Lindsay Salzbrun report live from the INDY Golf Tournament at Territory Golf Club, highlighting the participation of various sponsors, volunteers, and cancer warriors. The vibrant event includes decorated golf carts, competitive games, and heartwarming stories like those of Cowboy Dave and other cancer survivors. Volunteers from different organizations, such as Brandon from Christensen Group and Emma Otto from Grandview Lodge, contribute to the event's success. The video captures the essence of the tournament, emphasizing community support and the mission of the INDY Foundation to aid cancer warriors.

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In this heartfelt episode of Connecting Through Cancer, Kayla Keenan shares her personal journey of grief and remembrance as she reflects on the eighth anniversary of her late husband Kyle's passing. She discusses the complexities of grief, the impact of loss on life perspectives, and the importance of honoring memories and legacies. Through her emotional narrative, Kayla emphasizes that grief is a unique experience for everyone and encourages listeners to embrace their feelings and remember their loved ones in their own way.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, host Kayla Keenan delves into the introspective topic of how our obituaries would read if written today. She shares personal anecdotes, including the process of writing her late husband Kyle's obituary, and why this exercise can bring clarity and perspective to our daily lives. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and consider what legacy they are leaving behind. Kayla also reads and discusses the poignant self-written obituary of Asha Gregory, an inspiring individual who embraced life even amidst her cancer journey. The episode serves as a soft...

In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan reflects on the themes of legacy leadership, emphasizing the importance of significance over success. She shares personal anecdotes about her late husband Kyle and discusses how true leadership is about making a lasting impact on others. The conversation explores the idea of purpose-driven decision-making, investing in people, and the qualities that define a legacy leader. Kayla encourages listeners to think about their own legacies and the impact they want to leave behind.

Takeaways

INDY Foundation is excited to share a partnership with Grand View Lodge (GVL) of Nisswa, MN benefitting Minnesota's cancer warriors. The GVL Thrive program was born from an idea after cancer survivor and Thriver Stephanie Kennelly found healing and comfort in her stay at Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, MN. We are thrilled and honored to be partnering with Grand View Lodge to create a program that will allow cancer warriors and their families to rest, relax, and rejuvenate at the lodge.

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer podcast, host Kayla speaks with Steph Kennelly...

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, host Kayla Keenan and her husband Mitch discuss life before and after having kids. They reflect on the spontaneity and freedom they enjoyed pre-kids, the adjustments and challenges of parenthood, and how their relationship and romantic dynamics have evolved. They share amusing parenting anecdotes, emphasize the importance of patience and intentionality, and offer advice to new parents. The episode also touches on the importance of self-care and maintaining a connection amidst the demands of parenting.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:24 Meet the Hosts: A Personal Touch

In this heartfelt conversation, the speakers discuss the complexities of navigating life after the loss of a loved one, the challenges of building a new relationship, and the importance of open communication. They share personal stories about grief, guilt, and the support of family and community, as well as the impact of the INDY Foundation. The discussion emphasizes the lessons learned from grief and offers advice for those in similar situations, highlighting the importance of embracing life and love despite past losses.

Takeaways