Episode Details

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode of The Art Box, Steve sits down with Kristi Tausinga, manager of the Mesquite Works STEAM Center, to explore creativity, mentorship, healing, and the joy of helping young minds discover those unforgettable “aha” moments.

A retired police officer turned educational leader, Kristi brings a deeply human perspective to her work with students. Known for thinking outside the box, she helps create unique hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence, and imagination. And if you ask the students, they’ll tell you the same thing—Kristi genuinely cares, and it shows.

Steve and Kristi talk about the evolving mission of the STEAM Center, the importance of creating safe and inspiring spaces for youth, and how creativity and learning often grow strongest when students are encouraged to explore freely. The conversation also touches on mental health, first responders, intuition, and the value of meaningful human connection.

Kristi’s husband Felipe, leads the center’s chess club and helps young players discover strategy, patience, and confidence one move at a time.

Beyond education, Kristi shares her passion for writing and poetry, often crafting deeply reflective pieces filled with emotion, resilience, and insight.

Warm, thoughtful, and filled with heart, this episode is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most important thing a mentor can do is simply help someone believe they are capable of discovering something new within themselves.