Urbandale
Nancy Shepard
Chief Operating Executive
Start Date: 9/10/2017
Personal Highlights
I love spending time with family and friends. My husband Tony also works for Heart of America as the COE of the West Des Moines Holiday Inn & Suites and Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse. We have three daughters, Alex is studying engineering at Iowa State, Gaby a junior in high school and Sam is in 7th grade. In my free time I enjoy watching my girls play softball, taking vacations near the ocean and cheering on the Cyclones.
Julie Eckhardt
Front Of House Executive
Start Date: 5/15/2002
Jessica Gabel
Front Of House Executive
Start Date: 3/16/2014
Blake Wenzel
Front Of House Executive
Start Date: 7/21/2021
Personal Highlights
I really enjoy a number of different outdoor activities, from foraging to fishing I have learned that Iowa provides ample opportunities for enjoyment throughout every season. Having a three year old son has given me newfound respect for all of my fun activities as well.
Kristen Smith
Front Of House Executive
Start Date:11/20/2019
Personal Highlights
When I’m not working I like to go back home and visit my family and friends and I also spend as much time as I can with my dog Wrigley. I’m a huge Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs fan so enjoy going to as many games as possible.
John Weiler
Back Of House Executive
Start Date: 12/5/2018
Personal Highlights
When not at work you will find me with my family riding and racing bikes. We also love to entertain family and friends. We also are involved in many volunteer activities that support our communities less fortunate individuals.
Dan Means
Back Of House Executive
Start Date: 10/6/1994
Emily Morgan
Back House Executive
Start Date: 12/8/2021
Personal Highlights
I love to go fishing and play just about any sport. I’ve still got one hell of an arm, and I do believe I still hold a few high school records for being the fastest and strongest girl. I did amateur boxing in the service and I was a lifeguard in high school.
Joshua Craven
Back House Executive
Start Date: 8/1/2022
Personal Highlights
When I am not at work I am spending time with friends and family. I love to try new food and recreate them at home. I also look to spend as much time as possible staying busy with projects.
Jason Wagoner
Back House Executive
Start Date: 6/13/2022
Personal Highlights
When I’m not at work I’m usually at home watching movies, however, what I do love to do is fish, play frisbee golf, camp, and especially going to concerts and music festivals for the camping and music. What I love to do the most is spend time with my family, especially my grandmother because we got so close when I was young and always in the kitchen with her.