Our Story
The Art of Awareness is part of a non-profit organization founded by Kristie Hollingsworth and Laurie Duthie. We are both cancer survivors who learned through our struggles to find inspiration and passion from others’ stories. It is connecting with a community, in times of both need and giving, that is crucial to finding personal purpose and strength. We share a passion for the serendipitous friendships that emerge from engagement with the local community. The Art of Awareness is born out of a belief that the more minds and hearts we tap through learning the stories of those around us, the better our West Michigan community will be now and in the future.
Our Team
Laurie Duthie
HostLaurie is the host of Art of Awareness and brings a rare ability to blend worlds - business and humanity, depth and humor - creating conversations that challenge assumptions while remaining accessible and engaging. A Michigan native, Laurie left home at 22 to explore the world, living and working in China (Wuhan and Shanghai) and California (Los Angeles and San Jose) before returning to Grand Rapids in 2021.
With a background as both an anthropologist and human resources executive, Laurie has worked as an academic with UCLA, consulted for multinational companies in China, and served as a Silicon Valley executive with Apple, Yahoo, and Logitech. Her global experience and cross-cultural lens allow her to get to the heart of people’s stories with intellect, humor, and authenticity. Laurie’s natural curiosity and ability to connect across differences make her a thoughtful, compelling host who invites listeners to reflect, laugh, and engage more deeply with the world around them.
Kristie Hollingsworth
Kristie is the producer and connective force behind Art of Awareness, known for her ability to recognize potential early, ignite passion, and bring the right people together at the right time. Kristie has a unique gift for identifying individual strengths and translating them into organizational and community impact, bridging business, philanthropy, health, sports, and the arts to move ideas into action.
With nearly 25 years of leadership experience across human resources, nonprofit development, and community-based organizations, Kristie is a trusted strategist and catalyst for growth. A lifelong community advocate with deep roots in West Michigan, Kristie curates Art of Awareness to elevate untold stories, spotlight organizations at pivotal moments, and invite listeners back into meaningful connection - shining a light on the people and ideas shaping a stronger, more connected Grand Rapids.
Producer
Megan Hollingsworth is the Creative Director for Art of Awareness, working both behind the camera and across social media to bring each story to life visually. She has a unique ability to capture meaningful moments as they unfold and weave them into a cohesive visual narrative that resonates deeply with audiences. Through her lens and creative direction, she shapes how the brand is seen, felt, and experienced across digital platforms.
A Michigan native and graduate of Grand Valley State University, Megan is also the founder of Megan Leigh Photography. She began her career in 2018 and, in a relatively short time, has built a strong portfolio across marketing, content creation, website design, videography, photography, and brand management. At just 30 years old, she brings a rare combination of fresh perspective, seasoned execution, and the ability to connect with audiences across all ages.
Her portfolio includes work with clients such as Nikki Glaser, Hannah Meloche, Shawn Canugo, and the Grand Rapids Rise, along with a range of sports, nonprofit, and entertainment organizations. Megan’s strength lies in translating authentic moments into compelling visual stories that connect people to the heart of the message and elevate the brand experience.
Creative Director