2024 genYP Members

Bryanne is a storyteller, advocate, leader & community connector who finds unique ways to motivate others. She is known for having a connection in any setting. Since 2016, she has served Mosaic in Central Iowa in various capacities; first with the Mosaic at Home program as an Independent Contract Program Manager for over 5 years then was promoted to the role of Resource Development Manager in March of 2022. Her connection with Mosaic has grown over the last few years as her youngest sister now lives in a Mosaic host home setting, allowing her family to see real life, real possibilities each day.

I grew up in Northwest Iowa and moved to Des Moines in 2006 after graduating from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.  I settled in the Beaverdale area after buying my first home in 2017.  My husband, Jarred, is extremely supportive of my real estate career and respects the time I dedicate to serving my clients. 

I got into real estate because I love connecting with people and wanted a career that could impact the community.  Buying a home is such an exciting time of change and it brings me great joy to see how the plans all come together for my clients.  I'm here to build relationships and help people through a major life change that involves a process I'm passionate about.

Aaron Colyer comes to Raccoon Valley Bank offering over 10+ years of banking experience. He specializes in Business Banking to provide the best service to his clients. He takes pride in serving his community and exploring options to best suit each business’ needs. Aaron is hands on with getting new and existing local businesses set up with their Banking and Cash Management needs, such as, but not limited to: ACH, Remote Deposit Capture, QuickBooks Integration, Positive Pay, Business Online Banking, and other day-to-day functions. He has a wealth of knowledge to help grow his clients in the banking world to help their success. Aaron has a growing portfolio of clients that attest to his satisfactory customer service, and he would love to meet with you and discuss your businesses banking needs.

Amanda has been an Account Executive at Palmer Group for more than two years and has been in recruitment for nearly 10. Amanda enjoys consulting with hiring managers and HR professionals on their staffing needs, employee retention, and sharing market data for the Des Moines employment scene. In her freetime, Amanda enjoys working out at Krave Gym, reading books and watching movies, and spending time with her two sons.

Hey everyone! I graduated from Grand View University in 2018 with my Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology-Health Promotion, with hands on experience in nutrition, strength and conditioning, and physical therapy. Outside of my career at MMIT, my main hobbies are finding house projects to do, woodworking, watching sports, and playing with my dog Gracie, who is a chocolate lab pit bull mix. I also like going to country concerts, festivals, spending time with my family, cooking, and exercising. I am always down for a cup of coffee to learn more about other people's businesses and how we can help support one another in our wonderful community. Let's connect sometime!

David has been with Peterson Painting for over 10 years.  He's a family man who serves in his relationships for personal and professional.  David LOVES Golf.

I have found that my superpower is problem-solving. my passion for it led me to explore different industries and environments. I found myself drawn to roles that allowed me to apply my skills and make a meaningful impact. From production, supervisory, management, director of operations, and being president of a non-profit organization, I embraced every opportunity of these roles to solve complex problems and contribute to the growth of organizations. Just as I learned in my younger years, in order to win the race, you must lead it first. With my vast and varied experiences of leading people, I felt called to give back. I received my certifications in coaching, mentoring, and leadership. Furthermore, became a certified training within industry instructor (TWI). It was exceptionally hard to leave the corporate world. Here we are. Welcome to Mindset Innovations Consulting.

My name is Laura Palmer, and I am a physical therapist at Core Physical Therapy in West Des Moines. Core is a PT-owned business providing 1:1 sessions in private treatment rooms and has been voted the CityView Best Local Physical Therapist the past 4 years! We specialize in myofascial release and craniosacral therapy. I love developing strong relationships with my patients and assisting them in getting back to doing the things they love!
The Des Moines metro is home to me, since I grew up in Adel, IA. I attended Luther College for my undergrad degree and Des Moines University for my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Being involved in the community is something I am very passionate about. I have volunteered with Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership since 2014 and am serving this year on the Corporate Board and as Director of Junior Staff.

Residential Realtor with Century 21 Signature Real Estate. Specializing in relocation and first time home buyers.

Sarah Nielsen has always had a passion for design. With her father working construction and a woodworker on the side, she began building and designing at a young age. She attended Iowa State University, graduating in 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree emphasizing in Woodworking and Photography with a Minor in Business. In 2014, she started at Showplace Cabinetry Design Center as an Assistant Designer/Customer Service representative. This allowed for Sarah to learn the design process from measuring a space, selecting design details, to finishing the project. She became a designer in 2016 and has since exceeded her expectations in sales, won a prestigious NKBA Thirty under 30 award, and is working towards her first accreditation and 'Aging in Place' certification. With her background in woodworking, she strives for a function-oriented design to create one of kind spaces that work well for the particular client.

 

Hello! I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner at Syverson Strege. Syverson Strege is an independent Fee-Only Financial Planning and Investment Management firm. Fee-Only means we do not work on a commission basis, we do not sell life insurance or annuity products, and our only compensation is paid by our clients for the services provided.

We offer wise counsel for retirement planning, cash flow and tax planning, estate planning, investment planning, risk management, and philanthropic planning. We provide clarity and peace of mind, knowing your life goals are our biggest priority.

My responsibilities include executing financial plans and assisting clients. I also help clients create personal and business budgets focused on achieving their financial goals.

Recruiter at Palmer Group with 7 years of experience placing professionals in a variety of positions throughout the Des Moines Metro. Graduated from Iowa State with a degree in Communication Studies, Go Cyclones! Outside of work, I like to volunteer, hike, collect houseplants, and ride bikes and horses.

Jie is a tax advisor and an IRS certified enrolled agent with Shaul and Associates PLLC in West Des Moines. Originally from the Guangxi providence of China, Jie moved to Des Moines in 2012 where she took accounting and finance classes at DMACC. Today, she has over 6 years of experience with personal and business taxes. Jie is also proficient in bookkeeping and instructs clients on accounting with Quickbooks. On her free time, she enjoys cooking, gardening, running, playing table tennis, and traveling with her husband, Geoffrey.  

Morgan is from Algona, Iowa, and joined Webspec after graduating from Simpson College with a B.A. in Public Relations and minors in Psychology and Sociology. She helps clients with their digital strategy, including writing content for their websites and optimizing them for users and search engines. Outside of work, Morgan enjoys running, hanging out with her husband, and trying new restaurants around the metro.

I am a physical therapist at Core Physical Therapy. I joined Core because of their emphasis on using manual techniques to help reduce pain and improve mobility for their patients. I enjoy getting to combine learning, healthcare, and movement to help people return to the things they love to do. I particularly enjoy working with patients experiencing chronic pain as well as first responders and their unique needs.

Outside of work, I enjoy visiting new places with my wife and our son, all kinds of music (particularly country), and anything outdoors.

Nicole has been a Physical Therapist Assistant with Champions Recovery Room and Physical Therapy for two years, with four years of total experience in the outpatient PT setting. Nicole enjoys working with individuals of all ages to help improve their pain, strength, flexibility, and overall quality of life. Nicole is a new mom and enjoys spending her free time with her husband Jacob, and their twin boys, Jackson and Lincoln.

Baylie is a seasoned loan officer for us. If you need a loan, she's the rockstar who can help you! She adores her family and 2 cats, and lights up any room with her smile and laugh!

Blake is the Executive Administrative Assistant at Midland Credit Union. Their job involves supporting the CEO and CFO, coordinating projects, marketing, and IT support. In their free time, Blake enjoys playing with their two kittens, baking, and traveling.

Howdy y'all I'm the Owner/Head Chef at cajun belle in Johnston Iowa. I started the business in May of 2022 and have been working each day to continue it's growth. I played football for Grand View University from 2011-2015 and graduated with my Bachelors in Psychology. I grew up homeless, living off the land in Beaumont Texas where I was fortunate to be able to learn how to hunt, process and care for nature, which fueled my love for food and people! Today, me and my wife live quietly in West Des Moines on Racoon River with our 2 Aussies and 6 Cats. I'm a simple country fella and do my best to meet people where they're at in their lives, feed them, and love them. Can't wait to connect with all y'all! 

Logan joined the Nelsen Appraisal Associates team in December of 2020, following his graduation from the University of Northern Iowa where he double majored in Real Estate and Finance.  Logan is registered with the state of Iowa as an Associate Real Estate Appraiser and is currently working towards general certification.  During his time at Nelsen Appraisal Associates, Logan has gained experience working with appraisals over a variety of property types including office, retail, industrial, agriculture land, commercial land, and residential subdivisions.  Outside of work, Logan enjoys riding his bicycle, going to the gym, reading, and trying out local coffee shops and restaurants.

I was born and raised in Urbandale, IA, and attended Dowling Catholic High School. I then moved to Iowa City to attend the University of Iowa. I recently graduated with a degree in Communication Studies and a minor in Human Relations. Post-graduation, I move back to the Des Moines area and began working at Palmer Group as a recruiter. I enjoy spending my free time with my dogs, at the lake, or binge-watching Netflix.

I have over 15 years of professional experience in my field of expertise! I’m constantly learning about the new market in our industry and ongoing trends in the digital marketing world. I'm also a go-getter and enjoy experimenting with something new every day in my life. Building up a relationship with my clients and team is always the key to success in our world today. If you require someone who can produce quality content for your online presence I'm your guy!

Andrew was born and raised in a family that is crazy about coffee. His first experience with coffee came when he got a job as a barista in high school. Since then, he graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with degrees in finance and real estate. As time went on, his interest in Friedrichs Coffee grew, and he now has many roles from retail management to marketing innovation.  

During his free time, he enjoys traveling and anything that brings him outside.

I'm a stylist at Salon 86, and I have 7 years of experience with hair and went to the Aveda Institute in West Des Moines. I grew up in Iowa and recently moved back here from Kansas to be closer to family and friends! 

Over the past several years, I have taken on various positions within the YMCA of Greater Des Moines. I currently serve as the Associate Executive Director at the Walnut Creek YMCA. In this role, I get to see the impact the YMCA has on the lives of each and every one of our members. Whether it is completing fitness goals, meeting new friends, or learning a new skill the YMCA is for all. Outside of the YMCA, I love spending time with my family and being involved in our community. We love attending events and trying local parks in our area! There is so much to offer! 

I am a born and bred central Iowan, growing up in the North Polk School District before attending DMACC. In my free time I enjoy staying active with activities like riding my bike and golfing. I understand the struggles and opportunities facing Iowa business owners, my wife and I own and operate a small storefront in Indianola- Core Nutrition. Before joining CertaPro Painters of Des Moines my background was in traditional media, working at iHeartRadio Des Moines and Des Moines Radio Group. I enjoy creating lasting business-to-business relationships, and that strength is a large portion of my job at CertaPro. You will see me at chamber of commerce and community events, or maybe dropping off a paint can full of goodies at your office! ?I love being in a role where I am a part of local outreach and community engagement. When you're ready to give us a call for an estimate, I'm happy to sit down with you over a lunch where I can learn more about your specific needs.

I'm a recent graduate of the University of Iowa with a double major in Marketing Management and Entrepreneurial Management, alongside a Certificate in Event Management. Currently serving as an Impact Strategist at Allegra Marketing, I excel in crafting innovative marketing solutions. With a passion for community engagement and social impact, I am dedicated to making a positive difference through my work. 

With a background of business management and finance, I'm here to simplify payment processing for businesses all across Iowa and the surrounding midwest. Think of me as your dedicated problem solver and one-stop-shop for processing and point of sale.

Hi! My name is Paige, and I am the Social Media Coordinator at Imperfect Pathways! I am a graduate of Iowa State University. I have my Bachelor's Degree in Communications Studies and a double minor in Psychology and Leadership Studies. I look forward to interacting with you all!

Clarissa has worked in social media and influencer partnerships within internal marketing teams since her graduation from Iowa State University in the fall of 2021. She received her degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a minor in Women's Gender Studies and a focus in leadership and video storytelling. She is currently furthering her education by obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

Clarissa recently moved back to Iowa after living in Kansas City post graduation and now works at Homemakers as a Social Media Manager and Project Specialist. In this role, she works to build a digital community of brand advocates both locally and nationwide to tell the story of Homemakers through the partnerships she facilitates and content she strategizes. 

In her free time she enjoys attending local events, group volunteering opportunities and loves participating in anything active from running, to sand volleyball, to yoga.

Christopher has been with Homemakers Furniture for over 5 years. Starting in their sales department and transitioning into their marketing/e-commerce department as a Communications Specialist. In this role, he works to optimize their email and SMS communications.

Christopher graduated from Drake University in 2023 with a bachelor’s in journalism and mass communications. He is working towards obtaining his master’s degree from Drake, in communication as well, focusing on brand communication. Christopher will graduate in 2025.

In his free time, he works for WHO 13 News, as a part-time photographer/editor where he films and edits stories for their weekend news shows.
 

Hello, my name is Kris Klabunde, I am originally from Davenport, IA. I played baseball and studied business administration at Iowa Wesleyan University. For the previous 8 years, I was in construction sales. Now at Paychex, we partner with business owners to streamline the responsibilities of HR, Payroll, and Benefits. So, the business owner can focus on the growth of their company and taking care of the client. Excited for the opportunity to connect with you all!

With a lifelong passion for animals, I've dedicated myself to their care and well-being. Since 2009, I've owned and operated a successful grooming business, where I've nurtured relationships with countless furry friends and their owners. A couple of years ago, I decided to expand my expertise by adding dog training to my repertoire. I thrive on the challenge of working with more difficult dogs and find fulfillment in guiding their owners through the training process. As a single mother of three boys, my life is undoubtedly busy but endlessly exciting. When I'm not with my kids, you'll often find me immersed in nature with my two beloved German Shepherds, Juno and Oden, enjoying the serenity and companionship they provide.

My name is Joseph Herst and I am the Director of Sales at the Stoney Creek Hotel in Johnston. My previous careers were involved with non-profit organizations, restaurants, and some wineries. My wife calls me "aggressively friendly" and getting out and about in the community is a hobby of mine. If you ever need coffee, food, or conversation, reach out. I know a guy.