INDY Foundation: Connecting through Cancer

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 he...

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 diagn...

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...

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 Gra...

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...

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 t...

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 a...

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 lo...

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 lear...

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 t...

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...

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...

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 whi...

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 sh...

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...

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...

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 supportiv...

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....

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...

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 empha...

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 significanc...

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 Brando...

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...

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 cons...

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...