BPC Streaming Network

On this episode of the Made in Iowa Podcast, Above + Beyond Cancer program director Mary Van Heukelom shares the incredible mission behind an organization that is transforming the cancer journey for survivors and their families. What began with a bold vision has grown into a movement focused on survivorship, wellness, connection, and hope. Through outdoor adventures, wellness programs, and a powerful support network, Above + Beyond Cancer is helping people discover that life after diagnosis can still be filled with purpose, challenge, and joy. Mary discusses the importance of treating the whole person, not just the disease, and explains how the organization creates opportunities for survivors to rebuild confidence physically, emotionally, and mentally. From mountain climbs to community support initiatives, the impact reaches far beyond Iowa and continues to inspire cancer survivors around the world. It’s a conversation about resilience, perspective, and the power of surrounding people with encouragement during some of life’s hardest moments. Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield‬ https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC Senior Director of Events Stacey Thompson and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between June 24-30. Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy. See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

Leisa Fox recently interviewed Jason Greer with Peel Business Design about the growing role AI is playing in operational efficiency and business optimization. Through the Peel Signal Theory software platform, Greer explained how AI is dramatically accelerating constraint analysis, efficiency identification, and process optimization — helping organizations uncover bottlenecks and opportunities much faster and more economically than traditional approaches. One of the most important themes from the conversation was balance. Greer encouraged businesses to be optimistic about the possibilities AI creates, while also recognizing that not all “AI experts” are equal. His advice was simple: do the smell test first. Look for practical experience, operational understanding, and measurable outcomes rather than hype. Used wisely, AI is becoming a transformational tool for organizations looking to improve performance, scalability, and decision-making. Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between June 17-23. Read more about Art Farm Iowa in this 2023 story from ia magazine. https://iapublication.com/art-takes-root/ Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy. See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

John Kempen, Plant Manager at Hormel Foods’s Osceola Foods facility, brings serious scale to the conversation—over 135 million pounds of product shipped each year. And yes, they make bacon—arguably one of the greatest food inventions of all time. But in a twist that surprises just about everyone, Hormel still sells more Spam than bacon globally. John walks through the complexity behind that volume, explaining how tight operational discipline and standardized processes are essential to delivering the same high-quality product every single time. In food production, consistency isn’t a goal—it’s a requirement. At the same time, Hormel isn’t standing still. John shares how the company has been strategically rolling out AI capabilities since 2009 to better predict demand and optimize production planning—ensuring the right products are made at the right time without waste. That forward-thinking approach extends to product innovation as well, from advancements in pasteurization techniques to consumer-friendly solutions like oven-ready bacon that goes straight from package to pan-free cooking. It’s a balance of precision and progress—where legacy brands stay relevant by continuously evolving how they operate and what they deliver. Presenting sponsor: ⁨ ⁨@wellmarkbcbs⁩  https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

On the June DSM Wealth podcast, host Suzanna de Baca explores how investors can navigate today’s uncertain markets in the episode “Where Should I Be Investing Now: Asset Allocation for the Modern Age.” The episode features Ed McGill, co-founder of McGill Junge Wealth Management and Dr. Tyler K. Jensen, associate professor of finance at Iowa State University’s Ivy College of Business. Together, they break down what asset allocation really means, why diversification remains one of the most powerful tools for long-term investing and how investors should think about risk, inflation and portfolio strategy in a rapidly changing economic environment. Listeners will gain practical insights on aligning investments with goals and time horizon, maintaining discipline through market volatility and building resilient portfolios designed to evolve with life’s stages and market conditions.

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between June 10-16. Juneteenth event information: Iowa Juneteenth event African American Museum of Iowa event  Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy.  See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

Women were born to be leaders. Deidre DeJear, president and CEO of Oakridge Neighborhood, and Anya Jensen, founder and CEO of Anya’s Reviews, Anya’s Shop and the Barefoot Shoe Expo, joined host LaDrina Wilson to discuss their approach to leadership and how they empower others and themselves to reach their highest potential.

Amy Starlin of Paul Mueller Company offers a compelling look inside a highly specialized manufacturer that has built its reputation on precision, customization, and long-term customer partnerships. Serving industries like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals, the company doesn’t just fabricate stainless steel equipment—it engineers solutions that are critical to its customers’ operations. Amy emphasizes that their success comes from deeply understanding each client’s process and delivering tailored systems that perform at the highest level, reinforcing why customers return generation after generation. What truly sets Paul Mueller apart, though, is its commitment to open-book management, inspired by The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack. Amy explains how this level of transparency—sharing financials, teaching employees how the business runs, and giving them a stake in the outcome—creates a culture of ownership across the organization. When employees understand how their daily decisions impact the bottom line, trust deepens, innovation accelerates, and productivity follows. It transforms the workforce from task-doers into problem-solvers who are actively engaged in the company’s success. In an industry facing constant pressure from supply chain shifts and evolving customer demands, that culture of accountability and shared purpose is a powerful competitive advantage. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

During this episode, dsm editor Michael Morain meets with Kathy Coady, chief development officer for Hope Ministries, to get a closer look at faith-based hunger support. They discuss the Hope Cafe and how free meals support those in need, no questions asked, and also how the nonprofit balances their faith-based mission within this secular issue.

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between June 3-9. Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy. See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

The banking industry, known for valuing stability, has remained well-positioned in Iowa despite various economic headwinds that could tilt it off balance. On this episode of the Iowa Economy Podcast, host Chris Conetzkey talks with two banking leaders — one from Iowa, one national — about maintaining the foundations that keep banks financially strong while progressing and innovating in response to new and changing forces such as new technologies and consolidation trends. In this episode: The industry’s focus on growth through acquisitions and how that influences the future of banking. The state of the agricultural economy and the differences between today’s farm challenges and the 1980s farm crisis. The emerging competition for deposits from fintech companies, brokerage platforms and cryptocurrency-related products. Guests: Daniel Brown, senior director of banking and financial services research, American Bankers Association Adam Gregg, president and CEO, Iowa Bankers Association

Nathan Grismore of Altec pulls back the curtain on a manufacturing operation built around reliability, not just in its products, but in how its people operate every day. Supporting critical industries like electric utilities, telecom, and tree care, Altec’s equipment keeps essential services running. Nathan emphasizes that this level of performance starts on the inside—by equipping employees with the tools and trust they need to identify issues, raise concerns, and continuously improve both products and processes. It’s a system designed to ensure that what happens on the shop floor directly strengthens what happens in the field. A key driver of that culture is Altec’s commitment to real-time communication across the organization. Employees are empowered with clear, accessible ways to report safety concerns, flag engineering challenges, and raise HR questions without delay. That immediacy removes bottlenecks in problem-solving and ensures issues are addressed before they escalate. More importantly, it builds trust—employees know their voices are heard and acted upon. The result is a more engaged workforce, faster innovation cycles, and stronger retention. In an industry where speed, safety, and precision all matter, this kind of open communication isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive advantage. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between May 27th and June 2nd. Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy. See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

Leisa Fox sits down with Ken McCullum and Alex McCarty for a conversation centered on one of Iowa’s most impactful sporting and philanthropic events — the Principal Charity Classic. As the tournament celebrates its 20th anniversary, Ken and Alex reflect on how the event has evolved into far more than a golf tournament. With more than $10 million raised last year alone for youth-serving organizations across Iowa, the Principal Charity Classic continues to demonstrate the power of community partnership, corporate leadership, and volunteerism working together toward a common mission. The episode also looks ahead to what could be one of the most exciting years in tournament history. With Iowa native Zach Johnson now eligible for the Champions Tour, anticipation is building for an unforgettable week at Wakonda. Ken and Alex share the vision, energy, and momentum behind this milestone year while highlighting the tournament’s continued commitment to creating life-changing opportunities for Iowa youth. From economic impact to charitable giving to world-class golf, this year’s Principal Charity Classic is shaping up to be a celebration of legacy, community, and possibility. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between May 20-26. Vote in Best of Des Moines poll before 5 p.m. Friday, May 29: https://www.businessrecord.com/best-of-des-moines/  Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy.  See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

In this episode of the Made in Iowa Podcast, Leisa Fox sits down with John Rapp, President and CEO of Auto-Jet, for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to navigate the highs and lows of manufacturing. As a seasoned entrepreneur who has weathered economic shifts, supply chain disruptions, and changing market conditions, Rapp emphasizes that strong relationships - with employees, customers, and partners - are often the difference between surviving and thriving. His perspective is grounded, practical, and shaped by decades of experience building businesses through uncertainty. The conversation also explores the evolving opportunities within manufacturing and supply chain careers, particularly for younger generations who may not fully understand the innovation and long-term potential within the industry. Rapp shares how recent tariff changes have unexpectedly created positive momentum for Auto-Jet by strengthening domestic manufacturing demand and opening new opportunities for American producers. It’s an insightful discussion about adaptability, workforce development, and why Iowa manufacturers continue to play a critical role in the national economy. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

On the dsm Wealth Podcast, host Suzanna de Baca explores the powerful shift happening as women earn more, inherit more and increasingly influence how wealth is managed and passed on in the episode “Her Wealth, Her Way: Women Transforming Money and Legacy.” Suzanna is joined by Jana Weiler, estate planning attorney at Dentons Davis Brown; Erica Axiotis, president of the UnityPoint Health Des Moines Foundation; and Michelle Mahoney, CFP®️, senior vice president at CAPTRUST Wealth, who discuss how women are shaping financial decisions within families, philanthropy and long-term legacy planning. The conversation highlights how growing financial influence is changing wealth conversations, emphasizing financial confidence and literacy, intentional legacy planning and aligning wealth with personal values to create meaningful impact for future generations.

BPC Senior Director of Events Stacey Thompson host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between May 13-19. Presented by the Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University – preparing job-ready talent for businesses and the economy.  See why Ivy is ranked the #1 Best College for Business in Iowa: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/

Mike Espeset of Story Construction joined the podcast to discuss how strong culture, trusted relationships, and long-term thinking continue to drive one of Iowa’s most respected construction firms. The conversation explored the realities of leadership in construction today, from workforce development and succession planning to maintaining quality and accountability while continuing to grow. Mike shared how Story approaches partnerships with clients, communities, and employees in a way that prioritizes trust over transactions. The episode also highlighted the changing landscape of construction and development across Iowa. Mike reflected on the importance of adaptability, communication, and investing in people at every level of the organization. From attracting younger talent into the trades to navigating economic shifts and evolving customer expectations, the discussion reinforced that successful companies are built intentionally over time. It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, culture, and building organizations designed to last. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Alex Kretzinger, the executive director of the Des Moines YMCA Camp, joined the Fearless podcast to talk about all things masculinity and allyship. We explored issues today’s boys are facing, how masculinity norms are affecting both men and women, and what we can do to grow allyship.

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between May 6-12. Registration for our webinar on the new property tax legislation on Friday, May 15 at 9 a.m., is available HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-webinar-understanding-the-new-property-tax-reform-bill-tickets-1989114134923?aff=oddtdtcreator Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders. Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/life-at-ivy/academic-services/graduate-student-services/graduate-funding-opportunities/emerging-leader-mba-scholarship/

In this episode, Business Record reporter Lisa Rossi and Knock and Drop Iowa founder Zuli Garcia discuss the new multicultural pantry joining the DMARC Food Pantry Network in partnership with Polk County Global Neighbors. The pantry features culturally relevant food options on a rotating basis to help meet the unique needs of immigrant and refugee households in central Iowa.

This episode of Made in Iowa dives into one of the most fascinating intersections in business today: skilled trades, technology, and human resilience. Leisa Fox sits down with Riana LeJeune, who never expected her path would lead from the police academy to becoming an award-winning upholstery innovator, apprenticeship advocate, and technology founder. After an injury forced a major life pivot at age 24, she found purpose in a trade that quickly became an obsession in the best possible way. What followed was the creation of businesses designed not only to preserve craftsmanship, but to modernize and future-proof an overlooked industry through AI, visualization technology, and workforce development. The conversation moves beyond business strategy into leadership, family, and identity. She shares how being AuDHD has shaped the way she approaches innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship, while also opening up about co-parenting and running a business alongside her former spouse—who also happens to be her first apprentice and master craftsman. From launching Iowa’s only Registered Apprenticeship program in upholstery to challenging the culture of “fast furniture” and advocating for a circular furniture economy, this episode is packed with insight about reinvention, unconventional leadership, and why the skilled trades may be one of the biggest opportunities of the next decade. The Made in Iowa podcast, a Des Moines Business Record product presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, from the Iowa Everywhere studio. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey hosts the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between April 29-May 5. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders. Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here: https://www.ivybusiness.iastate.edu/life-at-ivy/academic-services/graduate-student-services/graduate-funding-opportunities/emerging-leader-mba-scholarship/

Not all economic issues are fast-moving, market-shifting events — some, like health care, can take years or longer for implications to materialize but then deliver a broader impact. On this episode of the Iowa Economy Podcast, public health economists and leaders join host Chris Conetzkey to share one issue or trend related to health that is affecting the state’s economy followed by discussion of contributing factors, downstream effects and what data is, or is not, available to better understand the economic implications of health on our business community. In this episode: • The unquantified role health plays in workers’ productivity and shaping the needs of the multi-generational workforce • How disparities in access to care disproportionately affect health outcomes and costs in rural areas • The factors leading to nursing home and hospital closures in Iowa and the effect on care and communities • Iowa’s cigarette smoking rate and its economic effects Guests: • Andrea Harding, vice president of population health, MercyOne • Jason Semprini, assistant professor, department of public health, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, Ph.D. • Hari Sharma, associate professor, University of Iowa Department of Public Health, Ph.D.

On this episode of the Made in Iowa Podcast, a Des Moines Business Record product presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield from the Iowa Everywhere Studio, Patrick Klemm and Ryan McIntosh share how ALMACO’s deep roots in agriculture have evolved into a forward-looking, globally respected manufacturing operation. Grounded in legacy but driven by innovation, they discuss how the company continues to adapt alongside the ever-changing ag economy—diversifying its capabilities while staying true to the specialized needs of its customers. From advanced technology integration to strategic growth, ALMACO is positioning itself not just as an equipment provider, but as a long-term partner in agricultural progress. A major focus of the conversation is ALMACO’s newest custom contract manufacturing initiative—an expansion that reflects both market demand and internal expertise. Klemm and McIntosh emphasize that while innovation fuels their growth, it’s their culture that sustains it. With a strong commitment to people, precision, and problem-solving, ALMACO has built relationships that span generations, driving customer retention and reinforcing its reputation as a global leader in its “field.” It’s a candid look at how values, vision, and versatility come together to create lasting impact in Iowa and beyond. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between April 22-28. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

Jim Hall built Systems Management & Balancing (SMB) into a quiet powerhouse in a niche most people never think about - but rely on every day. What started in 1967 as a small Des Moines operation grew into a multi-state firm focused on testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) HVAC systems to ensure buildings actually perform the way they were designed. Jim shares the bet he made when he acquired the company in 2002, leaning into independence and precision as their differentiator. In an industry where comfort, safety, and efficiency are on the line - especially in hospitals, schools, and complex facilities - SMB has become the “truth-teller,” identifying problems others miss and ensuring systems function as intended. Joined by consultant Erin Rollenhagen, the conversation shifts to what it takes to evolve and scale a highly specialized business. Erin brings a strategic lens to leadership, growth, and positioning, highlighting the opportunities - and risks - that come with complexity in today’s built environments. Together, they reflect on Jim’s succession plan, the importance of developing talent in a technical field, and why this behind-the-scenes work offers meaningful, high-impact careers. It’s a conversation about legacy, precision, and the kind of Iowa-built business that quietly keeps the world running. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between April 15-21. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

On this episode, Ellen Hines, Director of Workplace Experience, and Justin Woods, Chief Manufacturing Officer at ALMACO, share a candid look into the company’s evolving safety journey. In an environment where no two projects are the same, ALMACO has made a deliberate decision to embed safety into every layer of its operations. They discuss how variability in manufacturing demands a proactive mindset—one where processes, communication, and accountability are continuously refined to protect their team. A cornerstone of that culture is empowerment. Hines and Woods emphasize the importance of creating an environment where every employee feels responsible—and safe—to speak up: “If you see something, you say something.” That mindset has helped ALMACO earn recognition as one of only five companies in Iowa to achieve OSHA SHARP (Safety & Health Achievement Recognition Program) certification, a distinction that reflects not just compliance, but excellence. For ALMACO, safety isn’t a box to check—it’s a strategic advantage and a key driver of long-term success.

In this month’s episode of the dsm Wealth Podcast, “Giving While Living: Making an Impact With Your Money Today,” we explore philanthropy through a more immediate and personal lens. We’ll explore how to think of estate planning and giving not as something reserved for the future but as a powerful tool for creating meaningful change right now, while strengthening the legacy we leave behind. The episode examines how intentional, values-driven giving can enrich both the giver and the community. Joining the discussion are experts Kristi Knous, president of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines; Mike Deege, a partner at Wilson Deege Despotovich Riemenschneider and Rittgers; and Carla Hughes, vice president and senior fiduciary trust officer at Bankers Trust. Join us to learn how giving while living can help you create impact, meaning and lasting change starting today. The dsmWealth Podcast is presented by Revol One Financial®.

Julie Martin launched enerj Balls in Bettendorf after making healthy and convenient snacks for her family that she thought others might like. We talked with her about being a mom and a business owner, and how those two areas of her life coexist.

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between April 8-14.

Business Record reporter Lisa Rossi chats with Luke Elzinga, DMARC’s policy and advocacy manager, about how policy decisions and legislation can affect people experiencing hunger — directly or indirectly. They discuss the repercussions of H.R. 1, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” and Iowa’s new regulations on SNAP purchases and the revamped Summer EBT program.

What if workplace safety didn’t start after an accident—but before it ever happened? On this episode of the Made in Iowa Podcast—presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield—Leisa sits down with Tom West of Makusafe to unpack the shift from reactive safety models to a proactive, data-driven approach. For decades, companies have relied on insurance and incident response to manage risk—but Makusafe is flipping that model. Through wearable technology and real-time data collection, organizations can now identify risk patterns, intervene earlier, and prevent injuries before they occur. The company’s origin story is just as compelling as its impact. Founded by Gabe Glynn after a conversation with his father—who oversaw 1,800 employees in a high-risk environment—Makusafe was built to ease the burden of safety leadership. Today, it’s helping companies reduce costs, improve outcomes, and build stronger safety cultures rooted in awareness and prevention. This conversation is packed with practical insights for business leaders ready to move beyond compliance and into a smarter, more proactive way of protecting their people. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn hosts the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between April 1-7. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

Fuel price fluctuations stemming from the war in Iran are shaping near-term business strategy and consumer decision-making, according to industry leaders in trucking and convenience retail. This episode of the Iowa Economy Podcast, hosted by BPC President Chris Conetzkey explores how energy markets influence freight demand, purchasing behavior and broader economic expectations. In this episode: Cost pressures facing trucking firms and downstream industriesWhere there are signs of recovery after a multi-year freight recession The relationship between oil prices and consumer mood Long-term implications for logistics efficiency, pricing and customer expectations GUESTS: • Jeff Lenard, vice president of media and strategic communications, National Association of Convenience Stores • Brenda Neville, president and CEO, Iowa Motor Truck Association

Renee Crowell, Executive Director of The Ingersoll, shared the deeply personal story of how she and her husband Chris found their way to Des Moines — and how the timing felt undeniably right. What stood out most wasn’t just a career move, but their genuine love for the community and their desire to invest in something meaningful. The Ingersoll isn’t just a venue to them — it’s a treasure. A gathering place. A piece of living history that deserves to be protected and celebrated. Their passion for stewarding this space is rooted in a belief that places like this strengthen the cultural heartbeat of a city. Renee spoke with reverence about the meticulous historic preservation of the 1939 theater — the painstaking collaboration with providers who were committed to honoring its roots while preparing it for the future. She described the “happy accident” that brought a large group of talented Americana employees into the fold at exactly the right moment, calling it one of the greatest blessings in the journey. From the incredible team and world-class talent on stage to the glow of the gorgeous marquee lighting up Ingersoll Avenue, you can feel it: this isn’t just a project. It’s a calling. And under Renee and Chris’s leadership, The Ingersoll is not only preserved — it’s alive.

BPC Senior Director of Events Stacey Thompson and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between March 25-31. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

On this episode of Made in Iowa, John Mickelson lays out a hard truth: many of America’s strongest manufacturing and industrial companies face a two-fold threat. First, founders and long-time owners are aging out without clear succession plans. Second, many of these businesses—while profitable—have never been fully operationalized. They’ve grown on grit, relationships, and instinct, but lack the systems, structure, and leadership depth required to thrive in their next chapter. John explains the distinction between venture capital and private equity, emphasizing that his firm isn’t chasing startups. With up to $500 million to invest, they focus on acquiring proven companies and strengthening what’s already working. Out of 700 to 800 businesses reviewed, only five or six make the cut. Once acquired, the work begins—professionalizing operations, installing scalable systems, building leadership infrastructure, and preparing the company for long-term sustainability. This isn’t about quick exits; it’s about disciplined transformation. When asked if he ever wants to keep the companies they acquire, John answered without hesitation: “YES!” But their mandate is clear—deliver strong returns for investors while leaving each company healthier, more valuable, and better positioned for the future. It’s a practical, powerful strategy for preserving America’s industrial backbone while creating measurable growth. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between March 18-24. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

In a recent episode of Made in Iowa, Stacey Sime, CEO of LifeServe, shared the remarkable preservation effort behind reclaiming the hardwoods used in their new headquarters. She pointed us directly to the creative force behind that transformation — Megan Aronson of Aronson Woodworks (https://www.aronsonwoodworks.com/). In this episode, Megan joins us in studio alongside her self-proclaimed “greatest asset,” Jon Kallen of Jennings + Kallen Real Estate (https://www.jenningskallen.com/), to talk about what it truly takes to build something extraordinary from the ground up. Together, Megan and Jon unpack the power of relationships, the discipline of surrounding yourself with people smarter than you, and the courage required to scale a dream into a formidable player in the woodworking industry. Aronson’s signature “Claze” process — which isolates and enhances wood grain in a bold, graphic way — is redefining how we see and experience reclaimed hardwoods. This conversation is about craftsmanship, innovation, and the kind of partnership that turns vision into legacy. Presenting sponsor: Wellmark https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

In this month’s episode of the DSM Wealth Podcast, we ask a powerful question: What if your investments could do more than just perform and also reflect what matters most to you? In “Aligning Your Investing With Your Values,” we explore how values-based investing has evolved over the years, and how this type of strategy can enhance your overall portfolio while creating meaningful impact. Joining the conversation are wealth and investment experts Cathy Adams, senior vice president and leader of the Wealth Management team at Community State Bank; Chris Cook, CPA, CFA, partner and chief investment strategist at Gilbert and Cook Private Wealth Management, and Liz Ulrichson, financial adviser and relationship manager at CAPTRUST. Join us to learn how aligning your investments with your values can help you invest with greater purpose and confidence.

BPC Senior Director of Events Stacey Thompson and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between March 11-17. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

When women negotiate they’re often labeled, perhaps called too direct or too soft. How can women gain confidence in negotiating, and what can be done to overcome stereotypes that create barriers for women during negotiation? In this episode of the Fearless podcast, co-hosts LaDrina Wilson and Macey Shofroth talk about negotiation with Cristy Tackett-Hunt, general counsel of Perfusion Solution Inc., and Beth Livingston, the Sheets associate professor of industrial relations at the University of Iowa Tippie College of Business.

Iowa State University distinguished professor and historian Pamela Riney-Kehrberg joins us once again to discuss the Farm Crisis of the 1980s. American farmers and agricultural communities nationwide — and especially in Iowa — were thrown into economic turmoil after several missteps coalesced into a farming bust. Policies and practices that helped the nation recover continue to shape the agricultural sector today.

In this episode, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig joins me for a wide-ranging conversation about the forces shaping the future of Iowa agriculture. We discuss global trade dynamics and the ways tariffs and international relationships influence Iowa’s agricultural economy. Secretary Naig also shares how the state is actively recruiting food manufacturers and expanding food production capacity, explaining why Iowa remains uniquely competitive in agriculture and food systems. From workforce and infrastructure to innovation and supply chain advantages, he outlines the long-term vision for strengthening Iowa’s role in feeding both the nation and the world. We also explore the importance of expanding year-round, nationwide access to E15 to support Iowa’s biofuels industry and the critical role international partnerships play through trade missions and growing export relationships. Secretary Naig highlights emerging opportunities for specialty crop producers and explains how the Iowa Farm Act and the Choose Iowa program are helping elevate locally produced food and farm products. When asked about his greatest accomplishment, Naig points to the momentum behind Choose Iowa—an initiative designed to make it easier for consumers to identify and support products grown and made in Iowa while creating new opportunities for farmers, food producers, and rural communities across the state.

BPC President Chris Conetzkey and Business Record Editor Sarah Diehn host the weekly recap of statewide news you may have missed in the last week. Stories shared were first reported between March 4-10. Explore the Emerging Leader MBA Scholarship — a full-ride designed to develop Iowa’s next generation of business leaders.   Full ride. Full potential. Learn more and apply here.

In this episode of the Iowa Economy Podcast, economist Bryce Kanago and Directors Council Executive Director Jerrica Marshall join host Chris Conetzkey to explore how the conflict involving Iran, shifting consumer behavior and workforce changes could influence inflation, interest rates and business activity. Marshall also shares insights from regional economic data and her experience as an adviser to the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. In this episode: How geopolitical conflict could disrupt energy markets and economic stability The policy dilemma facing the Federal Reserve as inflation and slower growth collide Growing financial pressure on lower- and middle-income households The potential for artificial intelligence to change job availability and workforce training GUESTS:  Bryce Kanago, economics professor, University of Northern Iowa Jerrica Marshall, executive director of The Directors Council and member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s Advisory Council on Small Business, Community and Economic Development, Agriculture and Labor