Kick off the Business Owner Summer Summit with a warm welcome to set the stage for an exciting day of learning, networking, and growth. This opening session will highlight the importance of employee retention, introduce our incredible lineup of speakers, and set the tone for a day filled with valuable insights and connections. Get ready to be inspired and take your business to the next level!
#BOSS2025 #Leadership #SmallBusinessSuccess
Join Drew Harden, accomplished author, speaker, and CEO, as he shares his expertise on creating a company culture that attracts and retains top talent. With years of experience leading successful teams, Drew will dive into the key elements of a thriving workplace—fostering engagement, building trust, and aligning values with business goals. Learn actionable strategies to cultivate a strong culture that not only enhances retention but also drives long-term success. Don’t miss this insightful session at the Business Owner Summer Summit!
#BOSS2025 #CompanyCulture #Leadership
Financial stress is one of the leading causes of employee dissatisfaction and turnover. In this insightful session, Evan Aiudi and Brock Klemetson of Savology.com will explore how implementing workplace financial wellness programs can improve employee retention, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. Learn how small businesses can provide valuable financial tools, resources, and benefits that empower employees to take control of their financial future—leading to a more loyal and motivated workforce. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover practical strategies for strengthening your team and reducing turnover through financial wellness.
#BOSS2025 #EmployeeRetention #FinancialWellness
Take a well-deserved break and enjoy a delicious lunch while connecting with fellow business owners, speakers, and sponsors. This is the perfect opportunity to build valuable relationships, exchange ideas, and discuss the insights gained from the morning sessions. Whether you’re looking to collaborate, gain new perspectives, or simply enjoy great conversation, this networking lunch is designed to help you expand your professional circle in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
#BOSS2025 #Networking #BusinessGrowth
Join a dynamic discussion as Mitchell Kearns of Iowa SBDC moderates a panel of experienced business owners sharing real-world challenges and strategies for employee retention. From hiring struggles to fostering long-term engagement, this session will explore the key concerns facing small and medium-sized businesses today. Panelists will provide insights on overcoming turnover, building strong company cultures, and implementing effective retention strategies that keep employees invested. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from those who have successfully navigated these challenges and walk away with actionable takeaways for your own business.
#BOSS2025 #EmployeeRetention #Leadership
Attracting and keeping top talent requires more than just competitive salaries—strategic executive benefits can make all the difference. In this session, Patti Bell & Mitch Johnk will break down innovative benefit designs that help businesses retain key employees and executives. From deferred compensation plans to equity incentives and customized perks, learn how tailored benefits can boost retention, improve employee satisfaction, and give your business a competitive edge. Discover practical, scalable solutions that small and medium-sized businesses can implement to build a loyal and high-performing team.
#BOSS2025 #TalentRetention #ExecutiveBenefits
Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and other strategic benefits can be powerful tools for retaining top talent and ensuring long-term business success. In this session, Dawn Hafner & Deb Giarusso will explore how ESOPs create a culture of ownership, improve employee engagement, and enhance financial stability for both employees and business owners. Learn how implementing ESOPs and other benefit programs can boost retention, increase productivity, and provide a succession strategy that strengthens your company’s future. Whether you’re considering an ESOP or looking for innovative ways to incentivize employees, this session will provide valuable insights tailored for small business owners.
#BOSS2025 #ESOPs #EmployeeRetention #BusinessGrowth
Take a moment to recharge, connect, and continue the conversations sparked throughout the day. This Networking Break offers the perfect opportunity to engage with fellow business owners, speakers, and sponsors in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re exchanging insights from previous sessions, exploring potential collaborations, or simply making new professional connections, this time is designed to help you expand your network and gain fresh perspectives. Grab a refreshment, meet like-minded leaders, and get ready for the next round of impactful discussions!
#BOSS2025 #Networking #BusinessConnections
Change is inevitable in business, but how you manage it can determine your success. In this insightful session, Sinikka Waugh will share strategies for identifying, empowering, and leveraging the Change Makers within your organization—those employees who drive innovation, embrace new challenges, and inspire others. Learn how to cultivate a culture that supports adaptability, encourages leadership at all levels, and turns resistance into resilience. Whether you’re navigating company growth, restructuring, or shifting workplace dynamics, this session will provide actionable takeaways to maximize the impact of your team.
#BOSS2025 #Leadership #ChangeManagement #Innovation
Wind down Day 1 of the Business Owner Summer Summit with an inspiring keynote by Jamie Pollard, Iowa State Director of Athletics. Drawing from his experience in attracting and retaining successful coaches, staff and student athletes, Jamie will share real examples of how organizational culture is the foundation to achieving and sustaining success, not only in sports, but in your business.
Get ready for a session filled with unique insight and perspectives, to help you build a winning team!
As the first leg of the Business Owner Summer Summit comes to a close, Brenda Dudley of Midwest Partnership will wrap up the day with key takeaways, final thoughts, and instructions for those joining the evening events or the keynote and optional stay-and-play activities on Day 2. This session will highlight the most impactful insights from the day, recognize our incredible speakers and sponsors, and leave attendees with actionable strategies to implement in their businesses. Before heading to the networking happy hour, take a moment to reflect on the connections made and the knowledge gained.
#BOSS2025 #BusinessGrowth #ThankYou
Unwind and connect with fellow business owners, speakers, and sponsors at the Networking Happy Hour at the Tiki Bar at The Port. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Panorama, this relaxed and informal gathering is the perfect way to continue conversations from the day, build new relationships, and celebrate a successful summit. Enjoy refreshing drinks, great company, and a laid-back atmosphere as you expand your network and strengthen connections within Iowa’s business community. Don’t miss this chance to toast to growth, collaboration, and future success!
#BOSS2025 #Networking #BusinessConnections
After Day 1 of the Business Owner Summer Summit, unwind at Twin Vines Winery with live music by the talented Jake Kemble and delicious eats. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, great conversations, and local flavors as we celebrate a successful day of learning and networking. Don’t miss this perfect way to connect and recharge! 🎶🍷🚚
#BOSS2025 #Networking #BusinessConnections #JakeKemble
Start your Friday with a refreshing and energizing Lakeside Morning Yoga session led by Reshape Fitness. Set against the peaceful backdrop of Lake Panorama, this optional session is the perfect way to wake up, clear your mind, and prepare for the day ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just looking to stretch and relax, this gentle flow session will help you recharge both physically and mentally. Breathe in the fresh air, soak in the serene views, and set a positive tone for the rest of your stay-and-play experience.
#BOSS2025 #MorningYoga #Wellness #LakePanorama
Kick off the second day of the Business Owner Summer Summit with a relaxed and engaging Breakfast & Networking session. Enjoy a delicious morning meal while reconnecting with fellow attendees, speakers, and sponsors in a casual setting. This is the perfect opportunity to continue conversations from the previous day, exchange insights, and build new business relationships before heading into the stay-and-play activities. Whether you’re discussing key takeaways, exploring potential collaborations, or simply enjoying great company, this networking breakfast sets the tone for another productive and inspiring day.
#BOSS2025 #Networking #BusinessConnections #BreakfastMeeting
Learn from Lance Farrell, founder of Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping, Inc., as he shares his journey of building a thriving franchise through strong leadership and strategic growth. In this session, Lance will dive into the key leadership principles that drive success, from developing a winning mindset to scaling a business effectively. Whether you’re looking to expand your company or strengthen your leadership approach, this session will provide valuable insights to help you grow with confidence. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a true industry leader at the Business Owner Summer Summit!
#BOSS2025 #Leadership #BusinessGrowth
Make the most of your time at Lake Panorama with a morning of optional activities designed for relaxation, adventure, and networking. Starting at 9:30 AM, attendees can choose from a variety of experiences to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and connect with fellow business leaders. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Lake Panorama National, while those looking to explore the water can join a boating or pontoon home tour departing from The Port’s dock. For a more active start to the day, hop on the bike trail for a scenic ride, or take a short trip to explore local shopping destinations with a guided caravan. Whether you’re winding down from the summit or continuing meaningful conversations in a relaxed setting, these activities offer the perfect way to wrap up your BOSS experience. #BOSS2025 #Networking #StayAndPlay #LakePanorama