How Perseverance Built a Crown

Send us Fan MailAfter 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.devriesWant to watch this episode on YouTube? Watch now.SPOTIFY