2025 genYP members

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.

 

Curvin has joined Comparion Insurance Agency, a Liberty Mutual Company, in August 2022 as a Sales Representative offering Personal & Casualty Insurance as well as Life Insurance. Comparion Insurance Agency helps individuals transfer the risks during life's most uncertain moments. Curvin's goal is to understand his customers needs and align them with the proper products and coverage they deserve; knowing their property and families are protected against uncertainty in the event of a loss. 

Cale has over 13 years experience as a direct mortgage lender and has helped thousands of people become homeowners and refinance existing loans by offering a wide variety of mortgage products and programs. He takes great pride in patiently consulting clients on various loan scenarios and qualifications, calculating monthly payments and out of pocket costs, and ensuring smooth and predictable closing process.

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.  

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. Bryanne is passionate about supporting individuals across Iowa communities to have a voice, seek informed choices & live independently. Since 2024 she has served as the Program Coordinator for Money Follows the Person with the University of Iowa Health Care. Bryanne has been an active member of genYP since 2019 & serves on the genYP Leadership team. If she isn't working or at genYP, you can find Bryanne with her dog, Andy or catching a Cubs game!

Morgan is a digital marketing account lead at Webspec, a web design and digital marketing agency based here in Urbandale. Before starting at Webspec, she graduated from Simpson College with a degree in Public Relations. She has since been working with clients at Webspec and a part of genYP for over 5 years. In her current role, Morgan works with clients to create their digital marketing strategy, lead their campaigns, and work hand-in-hand with clients and the team to meet their business goals through digital tactics. She leads campaigns that include tactics like PPC advertising, social media management (paid and organic), search engine optimization (SEO), newsletters, reputation management, and more.

Born and raised in eastern Iowa, Daycen now works as an Associate Financial Planner with AO Wealth Advisory in Urbandale. After graduating from Iowa State University, he and his wife, Payton, moved to West Des Moines before embarking on the journey of home ownership with the recent purchase of a home in Clive. They love to explore local eateries and coffee shops in their free time as well as taking their Goldendoodle, Hazel, on adventures.

Energetic and highly effective award wining Sales Director. Promoted to leadership after 6 years in Sales Rep role. I am looking to network with other Sales professionals in order to continue to learn and grow in the world of Sales.

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 4 cats, reading, playing video games, 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! 

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

My name is Christopher Spring, and I am a Photographer/Editor at WHO 13 News Des Moines, where I film and edit breaking news and events for their local broadcasts.

I graduated from Drake University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications. I am working towards obtaining my master’s degree from Drake in Communications, focusing on brand communications.

In my free time, I love to learn new things, try out different brands of coffee, and watch movies.

 

For the past 17 years, I’ve been the guy behind the mic, making sure dance floors were packed, guests were laughing, and your wedding day went as smoothly as possible. As a DJ and entertainer, I’ve mastered the art of reading a room—whether that means busting out a classic tune or convincing your uncle to put the conga line back on the shelf.

Now, I’ve taken my love for creating unforgettable moments to the next level by opening my own wedding and event venue. Think of it as my encore performance—a space where every detail is designed to make your event as unique as you are.

When I’m not involved with events, you’ll find me supporting the arts, cracking jokes (I promise, they’re funny), and generally being the kind of person who makes even Mondays feel like a celebration. Life’s too short to be boring - so let’s make it memorable!

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. 

I got started in real estate in May 2022 while I was a full-time student at the University of Iowa, selling new construction homes. Being born and raised in Ankeny, I’ve always had a love for the Des Moines metro and helping people find their perfect place to call home.

Now, I’m proud to be part of the Megan Mitchum + Co team, where we focus on creating amazing real estate experiences. Outside of real estate, you’ll find me spending time with family, doing Pilates, enjoying outdoor walks, shopping, cooking, or planning my next trip.

As your agent, your dreams and goals are at the heart of everything I do. I'm here to make the process enjoyable and tailored just for you!

Hi y’all, I’m Michelle! I'm a licensed massage therapist at Active Edge Massage & Wellness. I'm originally from Houston, Texas and I have thankfully found my way to the beautiful state of Iowa. My priority is to create a safe space where you can sink deeper into your body and work out what it means to truly feel embodied. If you’re looking for assistance in grounding your body, tending to your nervous system, managing pain or you want to simply relax, you are in the right place. Each session is tailored specifically to your individual needs. Come exactly as you are and allow yourself to feel nurtured. It is my honor to hold this space with you.