under
in North Central Iowa
Amanda Lyon
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
The most motivating factor within my career has been the people I have been blessed to work with. I love being able to solve problems with them, create solutions and have an engaging working environment. I get to work with a team who truly cares about the health and wellbeing of our community, the services we provide, and the patient care we deliver. I love evaluating the needs and being able to bring new, innovative and creative solutions to our work and community. My motivation always aligns back to the people I get to work with and the overall patient experience.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
Being able to make a difference in any way to someone is what motivates me. I was born and raised here, and I want to be able to do what I can to make a difference, as well as show my children they can too. There are so many ways to give back, whether through a skill, donations, helping others or volunteering we can all make a big impact, and it truly matters to others.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
Starting a night Mom’s group with a friend of mine through church. After speaking with many people, many moms wanted a support group or gathering to get together after work. We went from starting with 8 of us to having well over 50 attending. It was such an amazing time of getting together, sharing tips with one another, being there for each other, working through a devotional, doing different gatherings and building such meaningful connections. Through this group we also did different things within the community or church to give back or spread joy.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My role models would be my grandma Joan and Alta Mae. They both taught me specific traits and qualities at different seasons within my life. My Grandma Joan showed me structure, strong morals, love for cooking and a deep love for Jesus. She was very passionate in all she did, was very thorough, always said I love you with big hugs, loved feeding others and was never afraid to tell you what she thought. My Grandma Alta Mae was one tough lady. She was full of resilience and showed you not to let others get in your way or bring you down. She knew how to bring light to hard situations. She was so full of life, laughter, love and spunk. They both have taught me so much and I continue to reflect on how I can grow in what I learned from them.
What life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
Having crucial conversations can be the best way to learn and build relationships. Don’t steer away from those conversations, dig in, be curious and be open to dialogue. Respectfully challenging and working through things together can create amazing outcomes.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
Learn and ask for feedback. After conversations, projects or working together ask for feedback on how things went or if you could have done something different. This can be so eye opening and will help you with anything you do in the future. You will continue to grow, learn and get better.
Activities Director | St. Edmond Catholic School
Mr.DavidFlattery
Activities Director | St. Edmond Catholic School
David Flattery
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
The primary motivating factor in my career as a high school activities director, coach and educator has been the deep impact that sports, music and other team activities have had on my own life. Growing up, my coaches and teachers played a significant role in shaping who I am, and I’ve always felt called to be that same kind of positive influence for today’s students. I believe that participating in sports and being part of a team can teach individuals powerful life lessons and help them discover more about themselves - arguably more than in any other environment. Being able to take on that educational responsibility, especially within a faith-based school setting, gives my work a greater sense of purpose and continues to drive my passion for this career.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
What motivates me to give back to the community is the deep connection I have as a born and raised Fort Dodger. This community has given so much to me throughout my life, and I feel a strong sense of responsibility to return the favor. I want Fort Dodge to be a place where families can thrive and opportunities are abundant. The goal is to help build a community that our current students will want to return to - where they feel proud to live, work, and raise their own families.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
I have enjoyed serving on many planning committees for various community projects here in Fort Dodge. One project I’m especially proud of is helping to facilitate and organize youth sports opportunities in our community. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work alongside others to create positive and supportive environments where kids can learn, grow, and develop valuable life skills. I’m also proud to serve on the Fort Dodge Area Symphony board, where I can help support the arts and contribute to the cultural enrichment of our community.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My role models are my parents. They instilled in me the values that have shaped who I am today - values deeply rooted in faith, hard work, and service to others. They led by example, showing me the importance of integrity and putting others before yourself. Their strong work ethic and commitment to living a purposedriven life continue to influence the way I approach my career and relationships. I chose them as my role models because their example has been foundational to the person I strive to be every day.
meaningful relationships at the center of my life. These priorities have kept me grounded and have given me perspective, especially during challenging times. Another lesson I have learned is to see failure not as a setback, but as an essential part of growth. Each misstep has taught me something valuable and pushed me to become better, both personally and professionally. Finally, understanding how to persevere through adversity and hardship has molded my perspective and approach to life.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
What life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
Over the course of my career, one of the most life-changing lessons I’ve learned is the importance of keeping my priorities straight - placing faith, family, and
One piece of advice I wish I had received earlier in my career is to fully embrace lifeto understand the value of living with joy, serving others, finding peace, and pursuing meaning.
Nate Moeller
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
• The primary motivating factor in my career has been the drive to make a meaningful impact utilizing my entrepreneurial characteristics. Knowing that the work I do can not only directly impact the customers I work with, but also all my coworkers. That sense of purpose always keeps me motivated.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
• I’m motivated to give back to the community because I believe success only has real value when it’s shared. The community has supported me in countless ways, and I feel a responsibility to return that support by helping others. Whether it’s through volunteering, mentorship, or service projects, I see giving back as an opportunity to build stronger connections and create a lasting positive impact.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
• One project I am most proud of is the recent “Heat for the Holidays” giveaway that my business started in 2024. This is a yearly tradition where we give away a new heating system for a family in need during the holiday season. This stands out to me because we’re able to see the immediate difference it makes, and it reinforced my belief in the importance of serving where you live.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
• I have too many role models to name just one. Instead, I try to pay attention to the best qualities in the people around me—whether it’s a strong work ethic, patience, generosity, resilience or leadership. I take notice of those characteristics and do my best to apply them in my own life. Learning from a wide range of people has helped shape who I am, both in my career and in my personal life.
What
life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
• One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that challenges often hold the greatest opportunities for growth. Mistakes and setbacks can be discouraging, but they’ve taught me resilience and adaptability. Another lesson I’ve learned is the importance of balance and perspective. Work is important, but so are family, health, and community. Keeping perspective has helped me make better decisions and reminded me what really matters at the end of the day.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
• I wish someone had told me early on that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Success is built step by step, and the key is to stay patient, keep learning, and remain open to opportunities as they come.
Brittany Bush
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
My primary motivating factor in my career has been the desire to help students understand the importance of strong communication skills while also creating meaningful connections both inside and outside of the classroom. I believe communication is the foundation of success—whether in academics, the workplace, or personal relationships— and I am motivated by the opportunity to equip students with tools that will serve them throughout their lives. My inspiration comes from our students directly as I watch them gain confidence and apply these skills to building connections beyond the classroom.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
I have been involved in a wide variety of community projects over the years, but I am most proud of the development of our youth swim team. The initiative of the swim team began as a shared vision with my husband, Brandon, and our three boys. With the support of the Manson City Council and our local community, together, we turned that vision into a reality. What makes me most proud is not only the development of the team, but the culture that has grown from it—one that promotes teamwork, discipline, and confidence in our youth. The program has brought families together and provided opportunities for our area youth to grow both athletically and personally which has been incredibly rewarding to watch.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
I have been very blessed to have a variety of role models and mentors who have helped shape me into the best version of myself—for my husband, my boys, family and friends, my career and my community. My role models include family members, friends, teachers, coworkers, and members of my church. Each of them has influenced me in different ways, whether by modeling resilience, encouraging me to pursue new opportunities, or showing me the value of service and compassion.
What
life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
Over the years, I have grown both personally and professionally, and one of the most life-changing lessons I’ve learned is that the path you think you are on can shift unexpectedly. New experiences, values, and opportunities can shape your direction, and those changes have led to greater growth than I could have imagined at the start. I’ve learned the importance of being open to change, being adaptable, and embracing new challenges. These lessons have not only influenced my career but have also helped me guide students in understanding that flexibility and resilience are key to long-term success.
What advice
do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
The advice I wish someone had given me earlier in my career is to never give up, to keep persevering, and to be patient. There are times when you feel like the underdog and life throws challenges at you that threaten to knock you off your path. In those moments, it’s important to keep the big picture in mind, trust the process, and continue moving forward. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and setbacks don’t define your journey. What matters is resilience, the ability to stay focused, keep your head up, and push through until you reach your goals.
Cari Conrad
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
The primary motivating factor in my career has been a desire to learn and grow both personally and professionally. I have always been drawn to opportunities that challenge me to think creatively and approach problems from different angles. Entering healthcare and nursing I had a genuine passion to help and care for others. Over time that passion has evolved in wanting to make a larger and more lasting impact.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
Fort Dodge is not just where I live, this is where I grew up and now where my husband and I are raising our own family. Showing my children, the importance of compassion, acceptance of others, and service is something that is very important to me and creates a guiding light for me.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
While I haven’t been involved in one specific community project that stands out to me at this time, I’m proud of the everyday ways I’ve been able to contribute. Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of building relationships with older adults in our community, many of whom have called Friendship Haven home or had loved ones call Friendship Haven home. Supporting and caring for them has been incredibly rewarding and is such a meaningful way to give back to others. I’ve also taken pride in supporting my husband’s active role in the community by being present for our children and creating a stable home environment. That support has allowed him to fulfill his responsibilities and volunteer,
which I see as a shared contribution. Together, we’re raising our family in the same community where we grew up, and I’m motivated every day to be a positive example for our children.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My everyday role models have always been my grandparents and parents. Their unwavering faith and deep commitment to family values have shaped the foundation of who I am. They’ve taught me the importance of compassion, integrity, and hard work—lessons that continue to guide me in every aspect of life.
From a career standpoint, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside remarkable female leaders. At the beginning of my nursing and leadership journey, Deb Shriver and Linda Whaley played a key role in shaping my path. Their influence continues to resonate with me, and I often think about the impact they had on my perspective. These remarkable women led by example, generously sharing their knowledge and experience to guide me through my early steps into leadership. I deeply admire their selfless commitment to mentorship, their genuine desire to see others succeed, and their exceptional ability to show appreciation and gratitude to everyone they worked with.
Today I feel truly fortunate to continue learning from Kalleen Engels and Julie Thorson who have encouraged and continue to encourage me to embrace discomfort and grow both personally and professionally. They exemplify inclusive leadership, celebrating the unique strengths of each person and cultivating a team culture I’m proud to be part of. Their guidance has helped me lean into growth, embrace vulnerability, and appreciate the power of being your most authentic self.
What life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that adaptability, empathy, and creativity are essential. Being open to learning and thinking outside the box has helped me grow through challenges. Most importantly, I’ve realized that you don’t have to wait or look for big things to make a big difference, small actions especially when rooted in compassion and a genuine desire to help others can make the biggest difference.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
I wish someone had told me earlier that growth doesn’t happen in comfort, it happens when you’re stretched, challenged, and even a little unsure. Early in my career, I sometimes avoided situations that felt intimidating or unfamiliar yet some of the most rewarding moments came from taking on new challenges, speaking up, or embracing change. My advice to others is to not let fear hold you back. If something feels uncomfortable, it might be exactly what you need to grow into the next version of yourself.
Cari Conrad
David Flattery
Amanda Lyon
Brittany Bush
Cole Jaeschke
Central Iowa
Shannon Grossnickle
Matt Price
John Engler
Keenan Schuur
Nate Mueller
Keenan Schuur
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
In my carreer, helping people navigate what is often the largest financial decision of their lives has always been my biggest motivation. Being trusted to guide people through that process is both an honor and a responsibility. In my everyday life, my family continues to push me, so I can do right by them and create something they can be proud of.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
Being born and raised in Fort Dodge, I carry a deep sense of pride for my hometown. I’ve watched how much our community has grown, adapted, and thrived, and I feel a responsibility to contribute to that momentum. I also hope as our community experiences continued growth that it instills pride and opportunity for my kids and for all of our youth who will eventually become our leaders. My motivation comes from wanting them to inherit a community that they’re proud to call home, just as I have been.
What
community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
The Dodger Stadium renovation is the project I am most proud of. The stadium has always been an iconic piece of our community’s identity and history. Even though my role on the school board was just one small part of a much larger effort, it was amazing to witness the transformation unfold. Seeing it evolve into a facility our students, athletes, and families can be proud of moving forward was incredible.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My grandma was the epitome of positive thinking. She carried herself with grace, faced challenges with strength, and always had a smile for everyone she met. Her incredible work ethic and outlook on life taught me the value of perseverance and gratitude.
My wife is the definition of kindness and empathy. She is my driving force and the reason I continually strive to do better, both personally and professionally. Watching the way she leads with compassion and treats everyone with respect inspires me daily. Together, these two women have shaped my perspective on what it means to live with purpose and to make a meaningful impact on others.
What life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
Over time, I’ve learned the power of patience and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, even during challenging seasons. Staying grounded allows you to navigate obstacles with clarity. I’ve also discovered how critical it is to care for both physical and mental health — when I take care of myself, I’m able to show up stronger for my clients, colleagues, and family. Lastly, discipline is greater than motivation. You can go to bed tonight with all of the motivation in the world, but as soon as the alarm goes off, the motivation is gone and you have to have discipline to continue to take action.
Matt Price
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
Throughout my career, I’ve been motivated by helping others directly and supporting fire and EMS personnel in their ability to do the same. My drive has always come from recognizing the positive impact I could bring to a situation, whether that meant improving an outcome for a citizen in need or stepping in to help a fellow public servant perform their duties more effectively. The sense of purpose that comes from being part of something larger than myself has been a constant source of motivation. It’s not just about responding to emergencies; it’s about building systems, fostering teamwork, and ensuring that our community can always count on us. Giving to people, whether through action, leadership, or quiet support, has been the most rewarding choice I could have made in a career.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
What motivates me most is genuine need. Communities are built on the idea of helping one another, and I’m humbled every time I have the opportunity to step in and be part of that solution, no matter how big or small the problem may seem. In public safety, you quickly learn that for the person experiencing the emergency, their issue is the most important thing in their world at that moment. That perspective drives me to treat every call, every interaction, and every project with seriousness and empathy. At its core, my job is to provide the best possible service to the community, regardless of circumstances.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of the work I’ve been part of through the Webster County EMS Advisory Council to establish a sustainable EMS system for the entire county. This was not a quick or simple project; it required years of collaboration, negotiation, and commitment from a wide range
of stakeholders, each with their own perspectives and priorities. The effort demonstrated what true teamwork looks like when different groups come together for the greater good. As we finish the final touches, I take great pride knowing that the system we’ve built isn’t just a temporary fix—it’s designed to serve the county for at least the next 15 years. To me, that sustainability means we’ve done more than solve today’s problems; we’ve invested in the long-term health and safety of our residents.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My greatest personal role models are my father and both of my grandfathers. The values and outlook I carry today are rooted in the lessons they passed down, through both wisdom and example, about what it means to be successful while remaining grounded in service to others. They taught me the importance of integrity, humility, and perseverance, and they modeled how to serve their communities with consistency and pride.
Professionally, I’ve been drawn to leaders who prioritize the mission and their people first, those who understand that success comes from building up those around you. In the fire service, I have been fortunate to learn from mentors such as Delvin Meyers, Jerry Eslick, Eric Kallem, and Mike Gentosi.
What
life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
Over time, I’ve come to recognize several lessons that have shaped not only my career but also my perspective on life:
• Be Prepared: Success often comes down to preparation. Understanding what standards are expected of you, and being ready before those moments arrive, ensures that you’re never caught off guard.
• Discipline Matters: Many of the most important tasks are neither fun nor glamorous, but they are essential. Staying disciplined allows you to see
those tasks through and to take pride in work that is done thoroughly and correctly.
• Genuine Care: The most lasting impact comes from caring about people and their outcomes. Whether you’re helping a patient, supporting a colleague, or guiding a team, authenticity and compassion matter.
• Find Joy in the Work: When you are passionate about what you do, it stops feeling like “work.” That passion sustains you, especially in difficult times, and transforms challenges into opportunities for growth and meaning.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
I wish someone had told me earlier that knowledge and credentials, while valuable, are only part of the equation. The true mark of professionalism lies in knowing how and when to apply what you know. Education gives you the tools, but it’s experience that teaches you which tool to use and at what moment. Early on, I focused heavily on accumulating knowledge, when in reality I needed to also learn patience, timing, and judgment. If I could pass along one piece of advice to someone starting out, it would be this: don’t just seek knowledge, seek wisdom in its application.
John Engler
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
The strong influence of my family and a long-standing interest in law. My parents both worked at law firms, so I was exposed to the legal field from a young age. I also have other family members who are attorneys, which further deepened my understanding of and appreciation for the profession. Growing up in this environment, I developed a genuine interest in the law and a passion for helping those in need. That combination—family influence and a desire to make a meaningful impact— has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in law.
What
motivates you to give back to the community?
The appreciation I have for the people who make it such a special place. This community is filled with great individuals who have supported my family and me throughout the years, and I feel a strong sense of gratitude because of that. I also think about the future— my kids are being raised here, and I want to help build and maintain a community that they can be proud of. Giving back is my way of contributing to the strength and well-being of a place that has given us so much.
What community project that you
were involved in are you most proud of
and why?
The various non-profit organizations that I’ve worked with in Fort Dodge. Working with these groups has allowed me to contribute directly to our community and hopefully help create a positive impact. It’s rewarding to support initiatives that improve the lives of others and strengthen the community.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My biggest role models are my parents. They’ve always been incredibly supportive and loving, and they’ve shown me, through their actions, the true value of hard work and treating people with respect. Whether it was through their dedication to our family or their commitment to their work and community, they’ve set an example that I strive to follow every day. Their integrity, work ethic, and kindness continue to inspire me in both my personal and professional life.
What life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
As an attorney, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the value of preparation and clear communication. Proper planning can ease stress and prevent conflict during emotional times. I’ve also come to appreciate how personal and unique each family’s situation is, and that listening is just as important as legal knowledge. This work has taught me that even small efforts can have a lasting impact on people’s lives.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
I wish someone had told me that you don’t need to have everything figured out from day one. It’s normal to learn as you go in this profession—what’s important is being diligent, staying curious, and not being afraid to ask questions.
Shannon Grossnickle
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
The primary motivating factor in my career is my students. Teachers often get asked what their why is for being in education, and my students are what push and guide me to be the best teacher that I can be. I strive to provide them with the tools, experience, and critical thinking skills to go out and achieve their dreams.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
I try to give back to the community as often as I can because it is another outlet that directly impacts and improves the youth of Fort Dodge.
What
community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
The community project that I am most proud of is during my time with The Fort Dodge Study Club. Every year, they hold a fundraiser with all of the proceeds going to a local organization that the members choose after a selection process. One of the organizations that was chosen was the YWCA. This meant a lot to me because I have had students and their families reside there until they can be on their own. The money that was raised was able to help the YWCA with necessary building repairs and improvements, and purchase items that the families need.
Who are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My first role model is my mom. She is the most selfless and strongest person I know. She always puts others’ needs above her own and never expects anything in return. I hope that I end up being half the woman she is. My second role model is Kathy Arends. She is my friend, colleague, and mentor when I first started teaching at Duncombe Elementary. She taught me how to do what is best for kids, no matter what! I learned so much from her about worklife balance, and I am very grateful for her wisdom and knowledge.
What life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
The life-changing lessons that I have picked up are to always do what is best for kids and that kids are more than a statistic. Data may measure proficiency, but it doesn’t capture the resilience and effort I see in my students every day.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
The advice that I wish someone had given me earlier in my career is to celebrate the little things, whether it be the light-bulb moments or the quiet student who finally has the confidence to share their ideas with the class. Those are the moments when the students can feel and realize their true value and potential.
Cole Jaeschke
What would you say was the primary motivating factor in your career?
I’m a coach at heart. My greatest passion is helping others succeed in their own unique ways. That sense of coaching and guiding people — whether in business, finance, or life — has always been the primary driver in my career.
What
motivates you to give back to the community?
I see our community as one big team. The more my family and I give back, the stronger and more successful that team becomes. I also want my children to grow up in a community they are proud of. If I can play even a small role in making that possible, I want to help in every way I can.
What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?
While I can’t point to one single project, I am proud to serve on two foundation boards: the Fort Dodge Community School Foundation and the Trinity Hospital Foundation. Both organizations make a direct, local impact in education and healthcare. I’m proud of their leadership and the way they continue to shape our community for the better.
Who
are your role models, and why did you choose them?
My wife is at the top of this list. She’s truly amazing — she leads our household by example every day, showing what it means to live with faith, integrity, and kindness. I’m fortunate she chose me.
On the business side, Ryan Smith, owner of Kingsgate Insurance, has been both a mentor and a friend. I deeply respect the way he leads and operates his business. As my team and businesses have grown, Ryan has been a valuable resource and partner.
What
life-changing lessons have you picked up over your career?
One of the best parts of my career is hearing people’s stories — how they created their wealth or started their businesses. I’ve learned just as much (if not more) from my clients as they’ve learned from me.
The lesson: listen more, talk less. If you really listen, you’ll be surprised at how much you can learn from others’ successes and struggles.
What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
That it’s okay to challenge the status quo. Early in my career, I often heard the phrase, “That’s the way we’ve always done it.” Back then, I accepted it. Today, I know that’s not a sufficient answer. Businesses, schools, organizations,
and even individuals should always be challenged to improve. Progress comes when we’re willing to question and rethink “the way it’s always been done.”
My favorite quote —
“When nothing seems to help, I go and look at a stonecutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred and first blow it splits in two, and I know it was not that last blow that did it, but all that had gone before.” – Jacob Riis
As an athlete, I’ve always related to this idea. Competitions are won in the daily grind of training and practice, not just in the final game. The same is true in life and business — success comes from the process, the daily decisions, and the perseverance. Just like the stonecutter, it’s not the final strike that makes the breakthrough, but the hundreds that came before it.
to all the 10 under 40 winners!
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