On the third episode of the ThriveMind Studio Podcast, "Investing in Those Who Invest in Us," host Courtney Finstad sits down with educator and coach Colleen Broderick for a conversation rooted in presence, connection, and courageous leadership. Together, they explore what it means to amplify the uniqueness and potential of young people, cultivate vulnerability and trust, and remain deeply human-centered in an evolving technological landscape. Drawing from Colleen’s work in education, coaching, and ethical AI development, the dialogue centers on agency, systems awareness, and the daily practices that sustain resilience in both classrooms and communities.

In our Voices of Impact Nonprofit Spotlight, we turn to the mission of TEACH, a national organization working to end the teacher shortage and diversify the teaching profession. In conversation with Co-executive director, Veronica Wilson, we examine education as both service and social justice — and the systemic barriers that prevent passionate individuals from stepping into the classroom. The discussion highlights the importance of representation, the human impact of policy decisions, and why investing in educators and the cultures that support them is essential to long-term community well-being.

This episode invites us to reflect on a powerful truth: when we care for those who shape the next generation, we strengthen the future for us all.

If you’re interested in learning more about TEACH or supporting their mission to end the teacher shortage and diversify the teaching profession, please visit www.teach.org.

In Episode 2 of the ThriveMind Studio Podcast, host Courtney Finstad is joined by Farrell Calabrese for a thoughtful conversation on leading with intention during seasons of change. Together, they explore values-driven leadership, well being, and what it means to design a life aligned with purpose rather than performance alone. Drawing from Farrell’s experience across corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and regenerative leadership development, the discussion centers on energy, sustainability, and the courage required to move through the “messy middle” with clarity and care.

The episode also features a powerful nonprofit spotlight on the Oregon Food Bank with Network Communications Strategist Rachael Lucille Jackson-Davis. This conversation reframes food insecurity as a systemic issue rooted in policy, access, and dignity - not individual failure. By highlighting community-based food support and advocacy efforts, the spotlight underscores the importance of collective care in building resilient communities and reflects ThriveMind’s commitment to equity, compassion, and addressing the root causes that shape both individual and community well being.

To learn more about Oregon Food Bank or support their work, visit:

Oregon Food Bank
📞 (503) 282-0555
🌐 oregonfoodbank.org

Your support helps strengthen access, dignity, and care across our communities.

Episode 1: This Wasn’t the Plan

In the inaugural episode of the ThriveMind Studio Podcast, host Courtney Finstad opens the series with a conversation rooted in honesty, reflection, and lived experience.

In the first half of the episode, Courtney sits down with author Mark Shelley Kenzer to explore the themes of his book, My Miserable Search for Enlightenment. Together, they reflect on a lifelong search for meaning, identity, and spiritual truth—touching on meditation, silence, suffering, and the unraveling of ego and expectation. Rather than offering easy answers, the conversation invites curiosity, humility, and deeper awareness of what it means to live fully when life doesn’t follow the plan we imagined.
👉 You can find Mark’s book on Amazon.

My Miserable Search for Enlightenment: A Quest for God and the Eternal Self: Kenzer, Mark Shelley

The episode also features ThriveMind Studio’s Voices of Impact nonprofit spotlight, highlighting Bishop’s Mission and its founder, Kate Klasen. Kate shares how Bishop’s Mission supports first responders navigating the aftermath of critical incidents through peer connection, lived experience, and trained PTS canines. The conversation sheds light on gaps in traditional wellness systems—particularly the often-overlooked care of therapy and service dogs that departments rely on—setting the tone for ThriveMind’s commitment to practical, human-centered support.

Support Bishop’s Mission

If this conversation resonates with you, we invite you to learn more or contribute to their work:

BISHOP’S MISSION
Kate Klasen, Founder
📞 (602) 790-3651
🌐 www.bishopsmission.org

Your support helps make real, meaningful care possible for those who serve.