What would people be surprised to find out about you?

I underwent Chiari Malformation (suboccipital Craniectomy) brain surgery, a condition that effects the brain and spinal cord. This experience taught me the absolute importance of listening to my body. The symptoms were chronic headaches, dizziness, coordination issues, and swallowing difficulties. These symptoms persisted for a long time, until they became noticeable to those around me. The surgery involved removing a portion of my skull and expanding space for the cerebellum. 

I mentioned this because it has caused a change in how I want to live the remainder of my life. It has deeply shaped how I approach both life and business. Fighting for your health should be a priority. There are many times when aches and pains are brushed off, perhaps because they seem insignificant. Now, I am paying attention to how I feel every day. I do not want unexpected health concerns to arise.  You should always listen to your body and mind.

When I was diagnosed with Chiari malformation, it was overwhelming. There was a lot to take in—not just the diagnosis itself, but what it could mean in the long term if left untreated. The symptoms had already begun to effect my daily life more than prior, and learning that surgery was the next step wasn’t something I took lightly. I knew I had to face this head-on. 

My strength came from the people who stood beside me at home and work. Their support was just what I needed. The most challenging part wasn’t just the surgery, but how I would recover. There are online support groups that provide answers to questions about the procedure and what to expect afterward. I did my research and tried to understand everything I could about what was involved. This wasn’t a simple procedure. It would require careful planning, skilled hands, and trust in my surgical team. 

The preparation wasn’t just physical; it was mental and emotional. Preparing meant getting my home ready for a real recovery process, arranging support, and mentally bracing for what was ahead. I was aware that there were things that could go wrong but focusing on everything that could go right helped me push forward. I realize that so many deal with terrible life-threatening illnesses and major surgeries that far outweigh my own. My heart goes out to these individuals and families. One of my dearest friends just went through breast cancer. She handled this so bravely. My husband and I were so amazed at how positive she stayed. 

Nothing is more important to me than my family. There is so much to be thankful for. It is crucial for those in your life to prioritize their well-being. Life is short. I have six amazing grandchildren: Owen, Keely, Quinn, Lenox, Hedrick, and Hayes, ranging in age from 5 to 11. They keep us all very busy and focused on what matters most. 

What is your life purpose? Do you have a personal mission statement for this phase of your life?

Our family recently lost an amazing woman. She was a mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her health rapidly deteriorated over a short period of time, not leaving us with much time to spend with her. There are many times I think back to what I may have missed. This taught us that life can change very quickly. I want to create a meaningful impact on family, friendships, & businesses. I want to create an environment for those around me that will support and enhance their lives. I want to live a life full of love, happiness, and integrity. My parents have always been a key part of my life. They have always wanted us to have nothing but the best. I want this to be a part of my life as well, for my children. 

What drives you?

I’m driven by others, both personally and professionally. I enjoy solving problems and helping others achieve their goals and success. I seem to thrive on STRESS. 

What have been the most valuable lessons you have learned?

I have always known that family and happiness are everything and should always come first. People matter more than profits, and happiness is a choice you make.

Do you have morning rituals or daily habits that enhance your life?

No special rituals or hobbies. I stop at Pierce Street Coffee Works as often as I can in the mornings. It is a habit. It is just natural for my car to drive there. It’s a step that keeps me on task when I arrive at the office. I feel off on days when I don’t get my coffee, even if I only drink half of it. 

What are your non-negotiables?

Putting anything before my family. When I am needed, I always want to be there. 

What habits have you built into your life that increase your stamina and help you power through long days?

I have not always been consistent in having good, healthy habits. A busy and stressful schedule makes it difficult. We all say that we will exercise, read more, and eat better, but life often gets in the way. I am trying as hard as I can. I now have a personal trainer, Cody Rininger, to help me stay on track with not only working out but also staying positive and feeling proud of myself. I understand the importance of this for both physical and mental well-being. I know too well that stress causes unhealthy habits, insomnia, and depression. This creeps up on you quickly, so it’s essential to take time for yourself and allow for rest. Staying hydrated, nourishing my body, and delegating wisely keep me sharp for the long haul. It’s not about doing more — it’s about doing what matters. This has taken me a long time to get to this point.

How do you decompress or unwind?

Family time. Calm moments. Sometimes, it’s as simple as sitting outside or inside. Many do not admit that a part of their decompress time is binge-watching a crime police series!

Who do you admire?

My parents, my daughters, and my business partners. My daughters have busy lives – managing three children each, events, full-time work, and, most importantly, being amazing mothers! Their lives seem much busier than mine did at their age. We are so thankful that our grandchildren are learning life lessons from the very best. My daughter-in-law, Breanna, is an amazing woman and an incredible entrepreneur at such a young age. I will always look up to anyone who shows up regardless of the circumstance, even when they’re exhausted. Survivors. Doers. Quiet leaders who stay humble while making big moves.

How do you want to be remembered?

I want my great-grandchildren to hear that their great-grandmother made a significant difference in so many lives. I want to be remembered as friendly, loved, hardworking, and worthy. I want to be remembered as someone who had purpose and built a life that lifted others.

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WORK LIFE

Tell us about your businesses.

There are several ventures that span insurance, employment agency, education, and children’s literature. Some days this is extremely overwhelming.  I have yet to find a good balance between the few businesses and the daily stress that comes with them all. While these are all based in Sioux City, they are separate entities.  Not related to each other, which makes juggling the time even more difficult. 

Theodore’s Academy is a local preschool and childcare center for children six weeks old to five years old.

IBC Insurance, LLC is a full-service insurance company. We focus on risk management solutions tailored to each client’s real needs.

Elite Staffing, LLC/ Elite Executive Partners provides a comprehensive range of staffing solutions, recruitment, and high-level Human Resources Consulting. 

Theodore’s Academy is a local preschool and childcare center that focuses on inspiring young minds with curiosity, character, and core learning. Our staff creates a magical, fun, educational, and safe environment for the children. We have the very best staff at Theodores!

What’s the meaning behind Theodore’s Academy?

Theodore’s Academy is named with love, representing and creating a family legacy. Theodore’s Academy is named after my father. Our family opened Theodore’s, recognizing the need in our area for a smaller center that would provide a safe space for families, where their children would be loved as the little humans they are.

Creatively, I’m the author of To Catch a Frog, a children’s book that tells a fun story centered on nature and play. — This was created as a fundraiser for Theodore’s Academy with the hopes of generating enough funds to create more play areas.

What sets your business apart from the rest?

Theodore’s Academy has amazing children, loving and smart teachers, small classes, and great programs. 

Elite Staffing and IBC both thrive on providing the best direct service and fostering strong relationships with our clients, regardless of the size of insurance policies and premiums, or the level or quantity of employees and HR services. Our clients range from individuals to large corporations. IBC has a national footprint. Elite has a very successful executive recruiting division. Thanks to my partner, Chris Namanny, Elite has made significant progress during the last couple of years. 

Let’s talk customer service…what’s the client experience?

We listen. We stay proactive. And we’re real. Clients at both IBC and Elite know they can count on us — not just to deliver, but to care for them and care about the success of their businesses. 

Mission/Vision Statement?

To build businesses that empower people through service and connection. Elite Staffing and IBC Insurance are recognized for their commitment to care, integrity, innovation, and hard work.

What have been the most valuable lessons you have learned in running your own business?

Always surround yourself with the best partners and team. Our teams are comprised of incredible individuals. Each brings something different to the business. Having the wrong people whose values and work ethics do not fit with your work family can be devastating to a culture. 

Advice for others starting out in business?

Do what you love, conduct thorough research, create a forecast, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. You need to realize that all businesses take time, and you may not be successful right away. 

Have you ever had to change course? What are your thoughts on business evolutions?

Absolutely. Change is inevitable. You may need to add a line of service, change your team, or sell a new product. I am open to changes if they are for the right reasons.