Small steps. Big progress.
Helping young people build confidence through long-term thinking, emotional resilience, and real-world money skills.
Be The Tortoise is a growing movement led by Rae Ostrander and his daughters, Allyson and Mackenzie. We share practical tools, simple lessons, and everyday habits that help students develop patience, discipline, and financial confidence that lasts.
About Us
Our Story
Be The Tortoise was created by Rae Ostrander and his daughters, Allyson and Mackenzie. The project grew from simple family conversations about goals, resilience, and long-term thinking. Today, the Tortoise message reaches students, families, and community groups through activities, events, and practical lessons that build confidence for life.
Events, Activities, and Game Nights
Financial literacy activities
Game Nights
Learn financial decision-making through fun, hands-on games that teach budgeting, planning, and strategic thinking.
Family Workshops
Interactive weekend sessions where parents and students work together on money habits, goal-setting, and long-term mindset building.
Youth Group & Community Activities
Engaging, discussion-based activities designed for schools, youth groups, and community centers that make learning practical and memorable.
Bring Tortoise to Your School
Be The Tortoise offers free, classroom-ready sessions for students. Each visit teaches patience, goal-setting, and real-world money skills through stories, discussions, and simple activities. Sessions are interactive, age-appropriate, and designed to reinforce existing financial literacy goals.
- 30 to 45 minute classroom sessions
- School assemblies
- Virtual community presentations
Our Team
Rae Ostrander
Founder & Educator
Rae leads Be The Tortoise and teaches The Tortoise Mindset in classrooms and community programs. He is also the CEO of Contrast Asset Management, a private real estate investment firm.
Allyson Ostrander
Educator & Ambassador
Allyson was one of the first students to learn The Tortoise Mindset at home. She now helps deliver sessions, supports classroom discussions, and engages with students at in-person events.
Mackenzie Ostrander
Student Ambassador
Mackenzie helps shape content that connects with students and shows how small, steady steps build real confidence.
The Tortoise Mindset
Most people chase shortcuts. The tortoise focuses on patience, small steps, and steady progress.
- Think long-term, not short-term
- Take small, consistent actions
- Build emotional resilience
- Manage money with confidence
- Make thoughtful decisions under pressure
If you stay patient, stay focused, and show up consistently, you win your race
Contact the Tortoise Team
We’d love to hear from you! Reach out for questions, school sessions, or upcoming events.
