Conference Schedule: Wednesday, April 2, 2025​

This transformative session is designed for everyone, from leaders guiding large teams to individual contributors leading themselves to elevate their performance. Leading with purpose is essential to achieving excellence in today’s fast-paced world. In this impactful talk, Brian Alementi shares his transformative PG3 model, a framework that empowers individuals to unlock their true potential through positivity, passion, perspective, gratitude, grace, and generosity. Brian’s extensive experience and dedication to inspiring others form the foundation of his model, which has helped teams transform, sparked innovation, and fostered resilient cultures. Brian believes effective leadership goes beyond traditional metrics. It’s about igniting a purpose and inspiring people to reach extraordinary heights. Through the PG3 model, he equips leaders at every level with the mindset needed to foster connection, trust, and vision. Each principle in the model serves as a guide, helping leaders inspire meaningful impact and create environments where teams thrive. This session is highly relevant for anyone seeking to elevate their mindset and performance, whether leading a large team or guiding their own personal growth. By leading with purpose, Brian demonstrates how leaders can elevate their teams to perform at their best consistently, even in challenging times. Attendees will be inspired and equipped with practical strategies to infuse purpose into their leadership, unlocking the excellence that drives both personal and organizational success.

Learning Objectives:

1. Implement the PG3 Model for Personal and Team Success: Understand and apply the PG3 model, which uses positivity, passion, perspective, gratitude, grace, and generosity to unlock individual and team potential and foster excellence and resilience.
2. Adopt a Purpose-Driven Leadership Approach: Learn how to integrate purpose into leadership practices to inspire others, build a unified vision, and drive meaningful, high-impact results within teams and personal growth.
3. Develop Strategies for Consistent High Performance: Gain actionable strategies to elevate team and individual performance, particularly in challenging environments, creating a foundation for sustained success and innovation.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Keynote Speaker
CEO/Founder Alementi Elevates, LLC

Brian Alementi is an acclaimed Inspirational Keynote Speaker, award-winning leader, and certified Master Trainer renowned for engaging presentations that combine inspiration with practical, actionable insights. He has an extensive background in guiding and elevating individuals and teams, including as a previous leader within a Fortune 500 company’s Hall of Fame learning and development division. His dedication to growth and excellence shaped high-performing teams across the organization. His impact reaches far and wide, with features on major television networks and invitations to speak on prominent stages, including TEDx. Brian’s influence continues to expand as he empowers audiences to unlock their full potential and achieve remarkable results.

With over three decades of public speaking experience, he delivers transformative sessions that provide clear, practical strategies for enhancing productivity, morale, and connection. Known for his infectious energy and authentic delivery, Brian resonates across industries, making his sessions both unforgettable and actionable.

A testament to his commitment, Brian’s personal life reflects the drive and resilience he talks about. Having completed seventeen marathons, a strong marriage of over twenty years, and raising two remarkable children, Brian brings authenticity to every talk, inspiring audiences to pursue their goals with passion and purpose.

www.brianalementi.com

This module will discuss current disability accommodation situations in a post-covid world ranging from the simple to complex.  We will focus on practical solutions for managing difficult employees, questionable medical certifications and remote work issues.  This dynamic session will involve audience participation.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the bounds of accommodation law in a post-covid world.
2. Understand how remote work postings, policies and processes function in tandem with accommodation requests
3. Learn when it is “ok” to say “no” to a remote work request.

Intended Audience: Private Sector

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Shareholder
Dentons Davis Brown, PC

Beth knows that the cornerstone of any effective human resources management strategy is a strong policy development and implementation process that adapts to the changing needs of her clients. Every report of discrimination, harassment or retaliation presents an opportunity for businesses to improve and every complex medical return to work situation or business visa conundrum presents an opportunity for businesses to foster a better connection with employees. From partnering with businesses to assess liability to training employees and fighting to protect confidential and trade secret information, it is important to Beth that her clients receive sound legal advice and a game plan for the future.

www.dentons.com

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Special Counsel
Dentons Davis Brown, PC

Ann is an experienced lawyer – first an employment and commercial litigator and then as general counsel when she worked in-house at the largest privately owned printing company in the United States. It’s with this varied experience that Ann understands what clients are facing – the necessity of practical problem-solving while also meeting business needs.

Ann’s practice spans over 25 years, during which she has represented a wide variety of businesses of all sizes and industries including manufacturing, agribusiness, IT, convenience stores, grocery stores, childcare centers, and financial institutions. She has also frequently been hired by other attorneys as a mediator to help settle cases and as a third-party investigator to review allegations of wrongdoing in the workplace.

http://www.dentons.com

Communication is the one skill we use every day, in every environment, and in every situation. Yet, we’ve all experienced the fallout of bad communication or the lack of communication.  In this session, we will identify and overcome three common obstacles to effective communication. Once we are aware of them, we can take constructive steps to over them. These obstacles are maturity in the moment, personality styles and trait differences, and the tendency to be vague and make attitude assumptions.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Learn their specific tendencies toward conflict according to their communication style.
2. Discover and understand the reasons behind destructive responses to conflict.
3. Use strategies that will curb their destructive responses and reframe productive responses.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Owner & Lead Trainer
Group Dynamic

Authorized Partner, Five Behaviors™ Authorized Partner, Certified Multipliers™ Coach

Alan is a leadership trainer and organizational development consultant. Alan is the author of The Group Dynamic Field Guide: 51 Ideas You Can Use Today and co-host of the Music Ed Insights podcast. For 22 years, he has done business as Group Dynamic, helping people embrace challenging work with less stress while getting more done. Alan works with managers, directors, leadership teams, staffs, and team members through leadership training, team building, and communication training.

Alan lives in Des Moines, Iowa, with his wife Julie. They have an adult daughter Mara in college. He holds membership in many professional organizations, including the Greater Des Moines Partnership, the Association for Talent Development (previous Central Iowa chapter President), the Downtown Des Moines Chamber, and FuseDSM.  Feirer’s other interests include competitive Scrabble, exercise, travel, dining, and anything Disney.

www.groupdynamic.net

Adulting is hard! Many of us haven’t been formally taught how to manage all the responsibilities that come with it – from home life and work to activities, friendships, and family. With terms like self-care, emotional intelligence, and wellbeing frequently discussed in HR circles, how do we truly address the root causes of our stress? And while pampering like pedicures and massages can help, they don’t solve the deeper issues. So, how can we get to the heart of it and make lasting changes?   In this session, we’ll explore how to develop self-awareness and identify the underlying sources of stress. We’ll examine how stress impacts our wellbeing both at work and at home, and learn resiliency skills to support healthy, productive responses. You’ll leave with practical tips and strategies that you can implement right away to reduce stress, increase success, and feel less overwhelmed. Join us to gain more balance, energy, and the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!

 Learning Objectives:

1. Gain self-awareness in key areas of life and work.
2. Examine stress and its impact at work and home.
3. Discuss resilience skills and identify practical things to start doing immediately that supports more success with less stress.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Facilitator and Coach
Topf Business Learning

With nearly two decades of experience supporting the talent development journeys of professionals at all levels—from individual contributors to C-suite executives—Amy specializes in helping leaders connect more deeply with their teams and organizational missions. Through the strategic use of assessment tools, case studies, performance plans, and coaching, she enables leaders to drive meaningful change and foster stronger, more cohesive teams.

Amy is a past president of ATD Central IA where she has enjoyed building relationships and supporting local facilitators as they share their talents with the ATD community. Her favorite part of ATD is Professional Development Day.

Since earning her Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) credential in 2018, she has embraced the three concepts of the Association for Talent Development (ATD) Capability Model: (1) Building Personal Capability, (2) Developing Professional Capability, and (3) Impacting Organizational Capability. By applying these principles, she has successfully led teams in implementing learning and performance management systems and coached leaders to build high-performing, resilient organizations.

Amy is a graduate of Iowa State University, holding a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a minor in Coaching. She lives in Urbandale, Iowa, with her two children, Isla and Hayes, and a Boston terrier, River.

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Social Intelligence Consultant
TRACOM Group

Jason Kiesau is a leadership coach, author, and social intelligence expert passionate about helping individuals and teams thrive. With over two decades of experience in leadership development, he specializes in guiding professionals to understand their behavior patterns, communicate effectively, and achieve personal and professional goals. As a Social Intelligence Consultant, Jason empowers leaders to challenge automatic patterns and embrace purposeful growth. A certified SOCIAL STYLE facilitator, he has worked with diverse organizations, offering training and tools to build resilience, collaboration, and results. Jason’s work reflects his commitment to living with peace, purpose, and partnership while inspiring others to do the same.

www.jasonkiesau.com

HR today is harder than it’s ever been before. Disruptive automation, increasing demands, and other challenges are putting more pressure on HR leaders and practitioners. It’s easy to feel a bit hopeless when facing all of that. But the actual trends and research show that well-developed, passionate HR leaders are in higher demand than ever before. In this inspiring session, bestselling author and researcher Ben Eubanks walks attendees through five major trends that emphasize and prioritize the value of strong, innovative HR leadership in the modern workplace. Attendees will learn:

 Learning Objectives:

1. What CEOs say is their top priority today (and how HR can have a closer connection to the business than ever before)
2. How the major disruptions happening in today’s organizations are tied to HR’s superpowers: people and change
3. What AI is great at, what it’s terrible at, and why HR has to take the lead on this before it’s too late

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Chief Research Officer
Lighthouse Research and Advisory

Ben Eubanks is an author, speaker, and researcher living in Huntsville, AL. His team at
Lighthouse Research & Advisory surveys thousands of employers and workers each year to
understand the latest workplace trends and changes.

His latest bestselling book, Talent Scarcity, explores how to find and keep workers during a
talent shortage. His first book, Artificial Intelligence for HR, may sound like a textbook, but it’s
essentially a guide to making work more human through the strategic application of technology.

In 2020, Ben founded HR Summer School, an event that has inspired more than 20,000 HR
professionals to date. He also hosts We’re Only Human, a podcast focusing on improving
human resources, one HR pro at a time. When he’s not speaking or writing, he spends time with
his four kids and runs in a variety of outlandish races for fun.

www.lhra.io

The workforce of today demands more from their healthcare benefits—whether they are public sector employees serving their communities or private sector professionals driving business growth. Traditional approaches to healthcare no longer meet the needs of a workforce that values accessibility, personalization, and wellness. This session will explore Healthcare 2.0, a people-first, innovative approach to benefits that prioritizes flexibility, preventive care, and trust. Attendees will gain actionable insights into implementing alternative healthcare solutions that benefit both employees and employers. The presentation will focus on how HR leaders in both the public and private sectors can create meaningful benefits packages that attract and retain talent, enhance employee satisfaction, and drive organizational success.  Why This Topic Matters: HR leaders face the dual challenge of meeting employee expectations while managing costs and organizational needs. This session equips participants with forward-thinking, practical solutions that balance compassion with innovation, ensuring workforce well-being and long-term sustainability. Format: Interactive presentation with real-world examples, case studies, and actionable recommendations tailored to both private and public sector audiences.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the shifting expectations of today’s workforce and how healthcare benefits must evolve.
2. Discover innovative care models that eliminate barriers and improve outcomes.
3. Explore how modern benefits reduce costs, increase productivity, and build loyalty among employees.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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President and Chief Strategy Officer
Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care

Carl Behne, FACHE, serves as President and Chief Strategy Officer at Hy-Vee Health | Exemplar Care, where he leads efforts to tackle healthcare challenges and drive innovative solutions. With over 15 years of executive healthcare experience, including roles as CEO at Burgess Health Center and Greene County Medical Center, Carl has been instrumental in reshaping healthcare delivery, especially in rural settings. In 2023, Exemplar Care expanded its impact by acquiring Aplos Health Plans, aiming to provide cost-effective, personalized healthcare options to employers and employees in Iowa. Carl’s leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including the Iowa Hospital Association’s Young Executive of the Year (2013) and the IHA Grassroots Advocacy Award. He is deeply committed to improving healthcare access, transparency, and patient experience.

www.exemplar.care
https://www.aplos.health/

Occupational health is an area of work in public health to promote and maintain the highest degree of physical, mental and social well-being of workers in all occupations.  This workshop will discuss aspects of occupational health and their connection employer solutions provided, their impact of mental and emotional health, and recent trends in workplace well-being and safety.   This presentation will highlight aspects and connections of Occupational health and well-being with specific examples demonstrating the impact on organizations. Participants will be able to define the importance of occupational health and its impacts on the workplace. Finally, participants will be able to recognize recent trends in employee wellbeing and occupational health and the impact on the employers including recent workforce trends, the changing societal and legal approach to substance use (including marijuana) and changing mental health status on the workplace.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Review the core objectives, needs and delivery of occupational health and the services often included in defining occupational health.
2. Define the benefits of wellbeing including identifying the types of programs available to employers and their impact to employees, occupational health, and workplace safety.
3. Identify and review current trends in the workplace that connect occupational health and wellbeing including technology, changing mental health status of society, the impact of the “great resignation” and changes in substance use and abuse.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Account Manager
MercyOne

Angela has worked in the health industry throughout her entire career on both the insurance company side as well as the health care provider side. She has been in roles ranging from group underwriting, product development, provider network contracting, managed care, and finance, to sales, marketing, and business development. Much of her career has involved working directly with employers especially in business development for occupational health clinics. Angela enjoys building relationships with employers, learning about their company needs, concerns, and goals, their workforce, and future plans, and then aligns solutions in occupational health, safety, and wellbeing. She has guided employers from 5 to 20,000 employees to reduce their claims spend, lower their mod rate, and OSHA recordables.

Angela received her Bachelor of Science in Corporate Finance from Drake University. Passionate about learning and teaching, she is a Professional in the Academy for Healthcare Management, has a certificate in Occupational Health Program Management and is also Adjunct Faculty at Des Moines University. Angela is currently a Client Relationship Manager with MercyOne Business Solutions.

www.mercyone.org/desmoines/location/mercyone-des-moines-occupational-health

In this discussion Brent Hinders, an experienced employment in attorney as both a litigator and advisor, takes participants through the law, policies, and best practices for accommodating mental health disabilities in the workplace.  This presentation covers both legal requirements and case law for employers as well as a discussion of potential tips and tricks for employers who are seeking to help keep employees in the workplace.  Brent’s presentation seeks to be interactive, current, and, most of all, helpful for employers and HR personnel to understand this difficult and sometimes sensitive subject matter.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Understanding the obligations of an employer in disability accommodations under the ADA.
2. Learning the different defenses employers have to a claim of failure to accommodate or discrimination based on known or reported employee mental health issues.
3. Understanding, learning, and being able to utilize best practices for mental health disability accommodations in the workplace.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Shareholder Attorney
Hopkins & Huebner, P.C.

Brent Hinders has been practicing law in Iowa for nearly two decades. Brent is a graduate of Simpson College, Drake University College of Business and Public Administration, and Drake University Law School.

Brent has been named a “Best Lawyer” in the State of Iowa since 2020 in the areas of Employment benefits law; Employer and Employee Labor and Employment law, and; as a litigator in the areas of labor, employment, and municipal law. Brent was named “Lawyer of the Year” for the Des Moines Metropolitan area in the field of Municipal litigation for 2024-25.

As an attorney for both private and public employers and employees he has advised and litigated a variety of areas including employee policies and handbooks; discrimination; harassment, and; other issues affecting laws and conditions of work in the workplace. Brent also has experience in investigating a variety of employment claims for employers of all types and sizes.

Brent is an experienced speaker on employment and municipal issues throughout the State of Iowa and has spoken at a variety of seminars, webinars, conferences, and other gatherings to a wide range of audiences.

hhlawpc.com/attorneys/Brent-Hinders

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, leadership is not just about achieving targets or driving profits; it’s about creating a culture where team members are treated as humans first and resources second. The employment proposition is changing, thus, our approach to leadership and entrepreneurship must change along with it. Bringing compassion into the workplace allows everyone to bring their whole selves to work and your business will thrive as a result! In this presentation, I share why NOW is the time to bring compassion to the forefront of how you lead your business. Through simple shifts in leadership style and culture progression, I will show you how genuine care for your employees will drive gains in customer service, employee retention and engagement, along with a direct increase in profitability!

 Learning Objectives:

1. Define what a Compassionate Leader is
2. Why now is the time for compassion at work
3. Why compassion is important to your business

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Consultant
Collective Culture Theory

Chelsea Stoll has spent more than 15 years in the Human Resources and Leadership space at large companies like General Mills and The University of Iowa, and smaller, start-up companies. In recent years, she has found that the leadership and business principles in current practice are not serving employees or business operations. Thus, she set out to find a method of leading where both human connection and business goals are intertwined. She believes that the intersection between human connection and business operations is where the magic happens!

collectiveculturetheory.com

*What elements need to be a in a due diligent background check package   *Describe the importance of the FCRA – _Fair Credit Reporting Act / EEOC -Equal Employment Opportunity Commission / CFPB Consumer Financial Protection Bureau  *How limit your liability in the screening space   *The current landscape of the screening industry – What legislation and litigation is happening right now that could affect your company.   *The top areas of current lawsuits and how to avoid this (Consent forms and Adverse Action)

 Learning Objectives:

1. Be able to identify the three most important searches in a background check.
2. Upon completion of the seminar, a learner will be to explain what a screening package needs to be considered due diligent.
3. Participants will be able evaluate their company’s process for screenings and limit their liability.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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President
C4 Operations Background Check Services

Buzzy is President and CEO of C4 Operations, a family owned and operated national background check firm operating out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Nashville, Tennessee. He works attentively with clients nation-wide to ensure they receive comprehensive and high-quality due diligence background checks, so employers can build powerful teams of their own. With over 23 years of experience, Buzzy works with his team side-by-side, using his expertise and knowledge of the industry to personally
work with clients on a daily basis. Leading by example, Buzzy brings his enthusiasm to the table, not only for the work he does but for his company and the people he works with.

As an avid entrepreneur, Buzzy takes his company a step above the rest to offer 24/7 support for his services. He holds a master’s degree in Education from Chapman University in Orange, CA. He is a member of the Professional Background Screeners Association (PBSA), Concerned CRAs, and both the national Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and local Eastern Iowa Human Resources Association (EIHRA) chapter. Buzzy, his wife, Sheree, and his children, Kelsee, Kyle and daughter-in-law Amy, are all devoted Hawkeye fans.

c4operations.com

Science has proven that doing kind acts for others makes us happier. And that’s great news for leaders because happier employees are 12% more productive. In today’s workplace climate—amid staffing and retention challenges, it’s crucially important to have a competitive edge with current staff and future employees. In this talk, you’ll learn how to use kindness as a key differentiator to make your organization stand out from the crowd. When you learn how to use kindness strategically, you’ll be seen and valued as a strategic and compassionate leader while simultaneously boosting the bottom line and improving workplace culture.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the tangible benefits of creating a culture focused on kindness
2. Incorporate standards that focus on the human element of the workplace and move the needle toward a kinder work environment
3. Create an action plan that will positively impact the bottom line
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Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Founder/CEO
Cindy Rowe, LLC

Recognized as a “Top 50 Women Public Speakers of 2024,” Cindy is a dynamic professional speaker, trainer, and passionate entrepreneur. Having built two successful companies from the ground up, she’s an influential thought leader in her community who works tirelessly to change the narrative around kindness.

Leveraging her experience in sales, marketing, and organizational communication, Cindy shares evidence-based strategies with companies, organizations, and schools that improve employee culture and positively impact the bottom line.

When she’s not speaking on stage, Cindy helps entrepreneurs grow their small businesses as the Chief Marketing Rockstar of Cindy Rowe Marketing. She is also leading the charge to turn kindness into a social movement as Founder/CEO of Be Kind Crew and creator of The Kindness Advantage podcast.

Cindy thrives as a speaker; for years, she’s been inspiring and influencing audiences of all ages and walks of life. Her message sparks a shift toward intentional kindness that has the power to spread kindness across teams, communities, and all over the world.

www.thecindyrowe.com

From the care of aging parents to the implications of natural disasters- employees today are shouldering more than ever and are screaming for flexibility. Organizations are financially strained and calling for accountability. But these two things aren’t mutually exclusive. Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa has received national attention, from the Today Show to the National Academy of Sciences, for offering flexible and innovative workplace benefits to support the human experience. In this session attendees will learn:

 Learning Objectives:

1. How to make data driven decisions to create benefits that work for the specific audience served by the employer and increase satisfaction and retention
2. How to address questions around the affordability and scalability of such benefits
3. How to implement radically supportive benefits for the good of people and the organization.

Intended Audience: Private Sector

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CEO
Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa

Beth Shelton is the Chief Executive Office of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa, overseeing all operations for 13,000 members in portions of Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota.

With thought-provoking discussions among hundreds of speeches, conferences, podcast interviews, and articles written, Beth has reached millions of people on topics ranging from workplace transformation to mental wellbeing to sobriety. From coast to coast, from the Seattle Interactive Conference to the National Academy of Sciences in Washington DC, Beth unapologetically speaks about the human experience and has received national accolades, highlighted on platforms ranging from Good Morning America, CNN and Working Mother Magazine, to The Washington Post, USA Today and the Today Show.

Beth is persistently curious, an avid reader and uses solution-focused leadership to encourage radical innovation. She received her BA from Simpson College and MBA from Drake University, and has been named an alumni of achievement from both, while recently completing the Artificial Intelligence certificate program at MIT.

Beth, a life-long amputee, embraces a spirit of empowering others, having served various causes; including the Iowa Amputee Golf Association, leading a local Girl Scout troop, serving on her local school board, and coaching youth teams in multiple sports.

She has a lifelong love of sports, having been a 3-time collegiate MVP in tennis. She loves driving her vintage Jeep with the top off, just took up guitar lessons, and is enjoying the journey of visiting every national park.

www.gsiowa.org

With a focus on 8 Pillars of Wellbeing, participants will understand the key components of an effective holistic wellbeing program. This presentation will cover how to drive engagement in your organization’s wellbeing program through four key engagement drivers and how to report the business outcomes of wellbeing to your C-Suite to demonstrate ROI.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Understanding the key components of an effective holistic wellbeing program
2. How to drive engagement in your wellbeing program
3. How to report the business outcomes of wellbeing to your C-Suite to demonstrate ROI

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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SVP for People & Growth Strategies
Navigate Wellbeing Solutions

Christy Smith has over 25 years’ experience developing and executing people centered business strategies that drive success. Christy is passionate about helping people do what they love in the service of others who love what they do. This commitment is foundational to her success building high performing teams and successful companies.

Christy is the Senior Vice President for People & Growth Strategy at Navigate Wellbeing Solutions.

Prior to joining Navigate, Christy served as the Chief Experience Officer and SVP HR at Aureon in West Des Moines. Christy was employed by UnityPoint at Home for three years as statewide director of people strategy. She also spent time as an HR Director at Kum & Go and as the VP of Human Resources at ChildServe. Five years of her professional life were spent with Image Ink Promotions, where she served as president.

Christy graduated from Drake University Law School with honors and has used her knowledge as an attorney to excel in her career. Christy also attended the University of Kansas, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism with emphasis in marketing and public relations. She is a graduate of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute, a member of the Business Record’s 2004 Forty Under 40 class and a member of the Society for Human Resource Professionals. She also served on many boards in her community.

navigatewell.com

Join us for an open, bold discussion about common health conditions, accommodations, leave time, safety practices, and confidentiality obligations. Managers and HR professionals often learn many details about employees’ health concerns. This presentation will include detailed and specific descriptions that some attendees may find surprising compared to your typical (sterile) legal presentation. For the faint of heart, there will be no photographs or graphic depictions.   Please note, this session will likely qualify for diversity and inclusion CLE credit, if IEC so requests.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Become more comfortable handling real, common health conditions and symptoms your workforce may present.
2. Understand various regulatory requirements that may apply to your organization.
3. Wellness – leave with a short checklist to evaluate your own workplace policies.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Attorney
Whitfield & Eddy Law Firm

Kay counsels businesses, governmental entities, and nonprofit organizations on a wide range of workforce issues including civil rights complaints, hiring, discipline, internal investigations, terminations, health and safety, reasonable accommodations, non-solicitation and non-competition covenants, compliance with leave laws, responding to wage and hour audits. She drafts executive compensation, independent contractor, and separation/release agreements. Many clients rely on her guidance for compliance issues, and she regularly provides policies and procedures. Kay helps clients analyze a variety of federal and state laws, including the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA),Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, and the Iowa Civil Rights Act. She also leads management-side union matters, negotiating collective bargaining agreements and handling grievances.

www.whitfieldlaw.com/attorneys-Kay-Oskvig

This session will expand your toolkit for L&D assessment beyond the standard four level evaluation model in common practice.  We’ll explore first the key stakeholders of a learning program, its overall goals, and the specific performance expectations of learners.  This provides an authentic basis for analysis or comparison.  Then, we’ll learn about concrete ways L&D professionals can gather actionable data for program effectiveness, including things like overall program delivery, instructional effectiveness, and support for application of new skills back on the job.  Some key points we’ll explore: • Why commonly used learning assessments are often inadequate. • How to derive a stakeholder-based learning program assessment and evaluation strategy • What to do determine the priority of learning needed for performance • Instructional techniques to assess learning through low-stakes quizzes and other retrieval practice • Learner surveys that provide actionable insights and nudge best practices • Best practices to nudge and support application back on the job  

 Learning Objectives:

1. Explore current thinking about L&D assessment, measurement, and evaluation strategies
2. Re-design learner surveys, stakeholder feedback, knowledge measurement, and other strategies for actionable data
3. Apply learning and impact assessment models that are NOT Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Owner
Topf Business Learning

Dan is a successful performance improvement consultant who is passionate about helping people and businesses achieve dramatic performance improvement through business learning. Dan designs, leads, and implements learning and development initiatives aligned with the strategic goals of his client organizations. His imaginative and professional live online and in-person presentations produce outstanding results, as documented by attendees’ performance. Dan can help you and your company develop business acumen, implement human performance technology, and design learning systems to achieve outstanding results.

Dan leads and implements multiple large and small-scale business training design projects for his clients. He also does 1:1 advising, coaching, and training for emerging leaders. Known for his outstanding skills to make the complexities of business accessible and understandable, Dan serves as a lead facilitator for business simulations and business acumen programs.
Dan’s employment history also includes:

• Adjunct Faculty at Iowa State University, Des Moines Area Community College, Drake University
• Senior Associate, Leadership Development at The Principal Financial Group

www.topfbusinesslearning.com

The ability to provide effective feedback makes a difference, both professionally and personally. When we provide constructive feedback to others in a positive way, we can improve our relationships and increase productivity. How we receive feedback is equally important. Giving and receiving feedback effectively can open the door to problem solving, collaboration, and trust. In this session, we will help you as a HR professional promote the value of feedback, explore how to help others give effective feedback using a simple model, and receive feedback without excuses, blame, or defensiveness.

Learning Objectives:

1. Emphasize the importance of helping others give and get feedback from an HR
2. perspective
3. Discuss how to help others give effective feedback
4. Explore how to receive feedback without excuses, blame or defensiveness

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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President
ATW Training Solutions

Todd McDonald founded ATW in 1999 after spending 15 years in various Human Resource and Training roles in industries such as finance, insurance, banking and manufacturing. He also served as Executive Vice President of American Media, Inc., the largest producer of training videos at the time with products in 72 countries and 27 languages.

Todd has authored two books: one on communication between managers and their employees, “I Wish You Would Just…” and the other on time management, “How to Find 100 Extra Minutes a Day.”

www.atwtraining.com

Leaders can more reliably and consistently coach individuals and teams to success by applying a 3-part framework to coaching conversations.  In this session, attendees will learn and briefly practice using a simple, repeatable framework that makes coaching conversations more efficient and more effective by improving clarity and accountability.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Identify three common coaching opportunities seen in workplaces.
2. Learn the basics of the Contract-Expand-Contract coaching framework.
3. Use the Contract-Expand-Contract coaching framework in a brief coaching conversation.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Coach and Owner
Aware and Willing, LLC

Dick Hannasch is a working relationship coach who has coached, trained, and developed thousands of people to improve working relationships, become better leaders and teammates, reach career goals, change career paths, and make other changes to become what he likes to call “You, better.” People describe his brand as an ethical judge who wants what is fair and right, a truth teller, and a comedian who takes you seriously.

For over 35 years, Dick has developed executives, leaders, and individual contributors for numerous organizations, mostly at Fortune 200 company Principal Financial Group where he was a senior talent development consultant and helped build the company’s coaching culture before retiring from there in 2022.

Dick coaches, teaches coaching skills to others, and provides mentor coaching to other certified coaches. He also provides training and assessment services to help clients grow professionally and personally. He has coached clients from every continent except Antarctica, with clients working in financial services, IT, health care, agribusiness, entertainment, government, manufacturing, education, real estate, and other fields.

Dick is a graduate of Coach U, a Board Certified Coach since 2012, an Associate Certified Coach via the International Coaching Federation since 2015, Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coach since 2019, and a Culturally Intelligent Mentor Coach since 2024. He is certified to administer and interpret assessments from Hogan Assessments, Korn Ferry, the Center for Creative Leadership, and Assessments International. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Iowa State University.

Dick is an active member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and ICF Iowa, and a member of Food Bank of Iowa’s Monthly Meal Makers Society.

One of Dick’s current goals is to write a short story about each year of his life.

awareandwilling.com

Participants will gain insights into the value proposition of employer provider partnerships within high-performance networks, highlighting benefits such as improved health outcomes, reduced costs, and enhanced employee satisfaction. They will explore collaborative models and strategies for effective partnerships, emphasizing data sharing, care coordination, and performance metrics, while understanding the concept and benefits of value-based care models. Additionally, attendees will identify best practices for fostering successful employer provider relationships and address potential challenges and solutions for aligning initiatives.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the Value Proposition: Participants will learn about the benefits of employer-provider partnerships in high-performance networks, including improved health outcomes, reduced costs, and enhanced employee satisfaction and healthcare cost secrets
2. Explore Collaborative Models: Attendees will investigate various collaborative models and strategies that employers and provider groups can implement to create effective partnerships, focusing on data sharing, care coordination, and performance metrics
3. Identify Best Practices and Challenges: Participants will identify best practices for fostering successful employer-provider relationships, along with potential challenges and solutions for aligning initiatives.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Executive Director of Business Development
The Iowa Clinic

Jodi Schweiger is a dedicated healthcare professional with a passion for preventative healthcare and early disease detection. As the Executive Director of Business Development at The Iowa Clinic, Jodi has been instrumental in pioneering innovative health services and programs. Her extensive background as a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and health coach equips her with a comprehensive understanding of wellness and program development.

Raised in a farming community in Iowa, Jodi has a deep-rooted commitment to the health and wellness of her state. She played a key role in making The Iowa Clinic the first medical group in Iowa to offer the GRAIL Galleri multicancer test for early cancer detection. Jodi’s efforts extend to enhancing employer health services, aiming to improve the overall health of Iowa Clinic employees and the broader business community.

Jodi has also led the development and growth of The Iowa Clinic’s Executive Health Program, partnering with various Iowa employer groups to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care. Her strategic initiatives and collaboration with the executive leadership team have driven significant growth and innovation at The Iowa Clinic over the past eight years.

In addition to her professional achievements, Jodi serves on the Central Iowa American Heart Association Board of Directors. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and two sons.

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Business Development Consultant
The Iowa Clinic

Jen Nelson is the Business Development Consultant at The Iowa Clinic with over 25 years of experience in various industries, primarily in business development and account management. Most of her experience has been in roles for medical, insurance, employee benefits, wellness, pharmaceuticals, and media industries. She holds an Iowa Insurance License in Health, Life & Disability.

Jen has served as the Board Chair for the Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa and is actively involved in several community organizations, including RISE Breakfast Club, 100+ Women That Care, American Association of Physician Liaisons, Iowa Healthcare Leaders Association, and National Associates of Benefits & Insurance Professionals.

She is a graduate of ABI’s Leadership Iowa class of 2017-2018, WDM Chamber’s Leadership Institute class of 2018-2019 and Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Community Connect mentorship program.

Outside of work, Jen enjoys spending time doing anything outdoors with her husband Scott, two boys (Michael & Andrew) and dog Oliver. She also enjoys volunteering on Lutheran Church of Hope’s hospitality team & women’s ministry groups.

Obesity is a complex issue that impacts health and the economy. Obesity rates in Iowa have reached alarming levels, with 37.8% of adults classified as obese according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The prevalence of obesity contributes to a range of chronic health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers, which in turn lead to increased healthcare costs and decreased workplace productivity. Obesity-related absenteeism and presenteeism is costly; obesity and overweight among employees cost employers billions annually. A 2023 GlobalData Plc report found that obesity and overweight are estimated to have caused $5.7 billion reduction in Iowa’s economy in 2022, equivalent to 2.5% of the state’s gross domestic product. This comes at a huge cost to individuals as well as employers. Employers in Iowa paid an extra $619 million in higher medical expenditures for health complications attributed to obesity and overweight. Obesity can be a burden for employers; fortunately, employers are an integral part of the solution to obesity.  This session will present 1) the current state of obesity in Iowa and the implications to Iowa employers; 2) share findings from a recent Iowa Employer Obesity Care survey to evaluate the Iowa business community’s perspectives and needs regarding workplace obesity prevention and treatment, including their awareness, current initiatives, and resource requirements, and 3) provide opportunities for action through resources and best practices for organizations interested in implementing comprehensive obesity care.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the current state of obesity in Iowa and the implications to Iowa employers.
2. Evaluate findings from the Iowa Employer Obesity Care survey and apply findings to your own organization.
3. Use resources and best practices for employers to develop a comprehensive obesity care plan.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Executive Director
Iowa Healthiest State Initiative

Jami Haberl assumed the role of executive director at the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative in December 2014. Her dedication to health and wellness blossomed at the age of 10, prompted by a pivotal event when her youngest sister fell into a coma at just 1 year old. This profound experience catalyzed her lifelong commitment to understanding the interplay between controllable and uncontrollable factors affecting health. Recognizing the critical role of health in enabling individuals to lead vibrant and purposeful lives, she embarked on a journey to champion well-being. Her career has included working on state and national initiatives in the field of telemedicine, healthcare reimbursement, bioterrorism, disaster management, and public-private partnerships.

A native of Lohrville, Iowa, Jami received her undergraduate degree in community health education from Iowa State University, a master’s in public health, and a master’s in healthcare administration from Des Moines University. Jami and her husband James Peterson live in Des Moines and enjoy scuba diving, biking, hiking and traveling the world.

www.iowahealthieststate.com

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Assistant Professor, Extension and Outreach Food and Health Specialist
Iowa State University

In 2022, Lyndi Buckingham-Schutt joined Iowa State University as an Assistant Professor in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department and a Human Science Extension and Outreach State Specialist in Food and Health. Lyndi’s work and research focuses on research and evidence-based policy, systems, and environmental change approaches to improve food and nutrition systems that support access to healthy food, sustainable development, and food equity.

Prior to her role at Iowa State University, Lyndi was the Director of Wellness and Nutrition Policy at The Harkin Institute at Drake University, where she was responsible for developing and implementing The Harkin Institute’s wellness and nutrition policy agenda, research projects, and educational outreach. From 2013-2017 Lyndi was an USDA Fellow for Childhood Obesity Prevention at Iowa State University and studied the effect of a physical activity, nutrition, and behavioral intervention during pregnancy to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Lyndi received a BA in Exercise Science from St. Olaf College, a BS in Dietetics from Iowa State University, and a PhD in Interdisciplinary Nutritional Science from Iowa State University. Outside of Iowa State, Lyndi is the past-chair of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Legislative and Public Policy Committee, and a member of Above and Beyond Cancer board and Iowa ACE’s 360 board.

faculty.sites.iastate.edu/lbschutt

The EEOC has issued new guidance for handling internal workplace harassment investigations. Training for investigators—even experienced ones—is vital. Labor and employment attorneys Fran Haas and Mary Funk, both skilled investigators, will outline the new requirements and how to satisfy the EEOC’s expectations. This presentation will address how to select an investigator, important things to consider when interviewing witnesses and evaluating their credibility, respecting employee rights and avoiding conflicts of interest, and other key elements of the investigative process.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Knowing what it means to conduct a “sufficiently thorough” investigation “to arrive at a reasonably fair estimate of the truth.”
2. Recognizing conflicts of interest in the investigation process and how to handle.
3. Identifying the skills required for interviewing witnesses and evaluating credibility.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Shareholder
Nyemaster Goode

Mary E. Funk is a shareholder with Nyemaster Goode, P.C., handling almost exclusively employment and labor matters. She litigates on behalf of management in state and federal courts, administrative agencies and before arbitrators concerning employment contract disputes; sexual harassment; race, sex, age, national origin and disability discrimination; wrongful termination; Family and Medical Leave Act; Fair Labor Standards Act; non-compete agreements; and unemployment. In addition to litigating cases, Mary proactively counsels clients on issues such as hiring and firing, drug testing and policies, harassment and discrimination investigations, employment policies, wage and hour issues, employee leave issues, and company handbooks. She negotiates collectively bargained contracts and drafts corporate documents related to employment such as contracts, non-compete agreements, policies and procedures, company handbooks, and settlement agreements and releases.  Mary also has an active schedule of providing training to companies and conducting workplace investigations.

Mary is a native of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and a 1995 graduate with distinction of the University of Iowa College of Law. During law school, Mary served as a Note and Comment Editor for the Iowa Law Review. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Drake University, graduating magna cum laude, in 1992.

www.nyemaster.com

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Shareholder
Nyemaster Goode

Fran routinely handles complex issues for employers regarding to disability discrimination, the accommodation process, harassment, discrimination, retaliation, Family and Medical Leave Act, equal pay, and wrongful termination. She negotiates collective bargaining agreements on behalf of management, as well as other labor disputes. She also takes on higher education cases in matters involving Title IX, Title VII, the Violence Against Women Act, and the Iowa Civil Rights Act. These cases often involve difficult facts relating to sexual misconduct or assault by employees or students—facts that she understands make people uncomfortable. “There are certain ways to handle cases that have delicate issues, and it often requires a soft touch and a lot of nuance,” she says.

While Fran enjoys litigating, she prefers to help her clients avoid litigation by working through the often complicated maze of employment laws with her clients prior to the development of a claim. For this reason, she emphasizes consulting as soon as an employer identifies the potential for a claim. Whether she consults through a phone call, conducts in-person training, or reviews policies or anticipated employee terminations, she’s with the client from start to finish. “It’s not just about pointing out the problem but getting them to the finish line so they don’t have to worry about it at all.”

In addition, Fran leads webinars and speaks frequently on employment and higher education issues, with an emphasis on mental health and substance abuse issues in the workplace. She also develops robust in-house training for her clients so that all team members are prepared to issue-spot as tricky issues arise.

http://www.nyemaster.com

Reinventing Leadership Development in the Age of AI In times of accelerating change, how can organizations develop leaders who are equipped to navigate complexity, inspire multi-generational teams, and embrace cutting-edge technologies? In this session, Frank Russell explores how new approaches, technologies, and delivery methodologies are transforming leadership development.   Key Points:  • Leadership development: what is working and what needs to change. (Research based on 8,000 surveys.)  • How to make leadership training more accessible, engaging, and impactful.  • Strategies to create adaptive and experiential programs that resonate with leaders at every level.  • Innovative ways to use AI and new technologies to build future-ready leaders.  • Practical insights into deploying leadership development into “the flow of work.” This session is designed for HR professionals, talent development leaders, and anyone passionate about preparing their workforce for a rapidly changing world.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Learn how leadership development is rapidly changing and evolving.
2. Understand how to create an adaptive assessment and development model to serve leaders at all skill levels.
3. Learn how to use the latest AI tools and new technologies like nanolearning to make leadership development more accessible and engaging.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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CEO
Prositions, Inc.

Frank Russell has over 35 years of experience as a speaker, trainer, and talent development professional. He is also a talent development pioneer and serial entrepreneur, having founded four successful H.R. technology and training content companies. His companies have won numerous awards, including ranking on the prestigious Inc. 500/5000 lists of fastest-growing companies in the U.S. for seven consecutive years, six years on the Software 500 list, and 14 Stevie Awards for business innovation and excellence.

In 2007, Frank was voted to Training Industry’s list of the Most Influential Training Professionals in the industry. In 2016, he was awarded the prestigious Learning Champion Award by eLearning Magazine for his lifetime of contributions to the learning industry. Frank’s client base includes more than 800 organizations (Google, Dell, Nike, Edward Jones, Kaiser Permanente, ABB, Wells Fargo, Exxon Mobile, Philips, and 35 agencies of the US Federal Government).

Frank’s current organization, Prositions, Inc., is a rapidly growing talent development company. DashTrain_TM, its flagship software application, is revolutionizing how organizations use microlearning to engage, train, and develop employees.  His talent development software has been used by over six million users globally in 16 different languages.

Frank is also a founder and CEO of EZPZVideos, LLC, one of the largest producers and publishers of nanolearning videos and content in the market.

www.prositions.com

Sometimes even our best professional development plans, and successful workshops don’t lead to the long-term changes we want to see. Together, we will discuss common learning traps that cost skill development to fall short at all levels of your organization and how to apply brain science to make learning stick.

Leveraging more than 25 years’ experience in education, Dr. Teresa Peterson will shine light on the gap between brain science and corporate training to revolutionize your approach; she will share three specific strategies you can build into your next workshop or professional development calendar right away.

Learning Objectives:

1. Examine common pitfalls of corporate training linked to the science of learning. 
2. Explore how new habits are formed in the brain and how to support meaningful and lasting learning at work.  
3. Analyze three strategies and the role they could play in your next workshop or in your long-term professional development calendar. 

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Director of Learning
Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc.

Dr. Teresa Peterson is the Director of Learning and Development at The Noll Wilson Group, and the co-author of the Don’t Feed the Elephants workbook. With over 20 years of experience in teaching, facilitation, and leadership, Teresa specializes in designing and delivering transformative learning experiences that helps leaders show up more powerfully.

Teresa holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Northern Iowa and certifications in Conflict Resolution (Cornell University), Immunity to Change Coaching, and Appreciative Inquiry. Her deep expertise allows her to craft thoughtful, accessible programs that help individuals and teams surface hidden dynamics, build trust, and strengthen collaboration.

Known for her grounded presence, masterful facilitation, and ability to listen deeply, Teresa brings both clarity and care to her work. Whether co-creating learning content or leading interactive sessions, she equips leaders with the tools and confidence to tackle complex challenges and create lasting change.

sarahnollwilson.com

In today’s dynamic business landscape, the importance of championing purpose and aligning it with leadership strategies cannot be overstated. This keynote will delve into the critical elements of establishing a purpose-driven leadership culture that nurtures organizational growth and employee fulfillment. By pinpointing and authentically sharing your organization’s purpose, you will attract and retain the best talent and foster an intrinsically meaningful and impactful work environment. Join us as we explore the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership and learn how it can elevate your organization to new heights of success and fulfillment.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Establish a leadership culture that supports your people and culture strategies.
2. Pinpoint your organization’s purpose to promote a more fulfilling work environment.
3. Authentically share the good you do to attract and retain the best employees and customers.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Chief Culture Officer
Lighthouse Research & Advisory

George Rogers is the author of “Champion Your Purpose,” a book focused on how to find meaning in a life filled with sameness and, ultimately, leading your life and work on purpose. The Chief Culture Officer of Lighthouse Research and Advisory and a partner of ETHOS Coaching. Passionate about helping leaders build a diverse and inclusive culture within their organizations. Believing that success stems from creating a culture of belonging that allows people to bring their authentic selves to the workplace with trust and vulnerability, George shares leadership strategies for investing in people and driving impactful change.

championyourpurpose.com

This presentation will focus on the importance of vision exams, and how many different medical issues can be detected early by having them done. What are the learning issues that children may have if they’re having problems with their vision? Tips for better vision will also be discussed, as well as the importance of education for employees. Those who understand the health benefits of annual eye exams are more likely to get them.

 Learning Objectives:

1. How eye exams can lead to early detection and cost savings for the employee.
2. Medical issues that can be detected through vision exams.
3. Tips for better vision, and the importance of employee education.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Director of Vision Benefits
Delta Dental of Iowa

Dr. Chad Overman graduated from Southern College of Optometry in 1995. After spending 12 years practicing in Nebraska and Wisconsin, he joined Walmart’s Corporate team. Over the next nine years, Dr. Overman worked in many roles: OD liaison to over 4,000 providers, Senior OD Recruiting Manager responsible for the Eastern U.S., liaison to more than 40 optical vendors and internal advisor to more than 20 Walmart support teams.

His industry experience and relationships led Dr. Overman to start his own consulting business in 2015. Dr. Overman’s primary focus has been quality, affordable and accessible care and he has been a champion of driving yearly eye exams for all.

In 2019, Dr. Overman joined DeltaVision as our Director of Vision Benefits. His primary role is to bring clinical expertise to those we serve, providing valuable insights on the importance of vision health and its connection to overall wellness.

www.deltadentalia.com

Remote and hybrid work have become more frequent, and with the advancement of technology, work and life have become inseparable. Having work in your pocket and life within reach, you can be pulled in different directions at any moment, resulting in a scattered focus and blurred boundaries. By identifying your values and priorities, you can begin the process of improving equilibrium and reducing stress.

 Learning Objectives:

1. Identify personal values and priorities to help evaluate how time is being spent and dispel the idea that work, and life can be a 50-50 balance; instead, focusing more about the equilibrium that exists between the two.
2. Understand how boundaries can increase satisfaction in all areas of life, including improved work performance and personal achievements.
3. Explore how an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help manage life’s challenges to help you reach your full potential.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Wellness and Marketing Manager
Employee and Family Resources

Johanna Dunlevy has been the Wellness and Marketing Manager at Employee & Family Resources (EFR) since 2015. In her role, Johanna develops wellness programming, facilitates webinars and trainings, consults with clients on how to create cultures of wellness in the workplace, and hosts EFR’s podcast, Emotion Well.

Prior to joining EFR in 2015, Johanna served as the Assistant Director of Wellness at Drake University, as a Health Screener and Account Manager for the Principal Wellness Company, and was an adjunct faculty member at Grand View University.

Johanna holds a BA from the University of Northern Iowa in Health Promotion (2004) and an MS from Drake University in Adult Learning and Organizational Performance (2010). Johanna enjoys unplugging from work on the weekends, finding time for a workout at the YMCA over her lunch break, taking her daughter on adventures in Des Moines, and cheering for the Drake Bulldogs.

www.efr.org