Greg Lagan
Vice president of sales delivery, Paragon IT Professionals
Age: 36
Education: Bachelor of Arts in interdepartmental health science, University of Iowa; minor in chemistry
Wife: Kaitie Lagan
Children: Charlie, Harper and Palmer
What are you still working on to improve as a leader? Being a leader requires constant evolution and self-reflection. I actively seek opportunities to learn from others (forums, networking, books) and challenge my own perspectives and approaches.
Ali Kraayenbrink
Partner, Vesel Technology
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Arts in business communication studies, Iowa State University
Husband: Taylor Kraayenbrink
Children: Parker (girl/8), Quinn (girl/5), Brooks (boy/2)
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life? Transitioning from corporate recruiting to building our own staffing and recruiting firm reshaped how I see work and leadership. Entrepreneurship pushed me beyond comfort, teaching me grit, accountability and how intentional risk can create meaningful impact — for clients, candidates and in my community.
Val Veiock
Owner, Bing’s
Age: 33
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Grand View University; Master of Science in organizational leadership, Grand View University
Wife: Chelsea Dexter
Children: Ollie (son, just a few weeks old!)
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life? I watched my mom build a small business in Historic Valley Junction through sheer grit and long hours. I didn’t know I’d follow the same path, but her work ethic set the standard for how I show up for my own business, family and the small-business community.
Taufeek Shah
CEO, Lola’s Fine Sauces Inc.
Age: 39
Education: Associate of Arts – Outstanding Alumni, DMACC; bachelor’s in management/finance – GV Alumni of the Year award, Grand View University
Children: Talan Shah (20)
What are your aspirations for the future?
As I continue leading Lola’s, my goal is to build one of the most trusted and beloved global condiment brands — rooted in family, culture and the heart of Iowa. I aspire to expand our footprint internationally, introduce innovative new products and further elevate Iowa as a national force in the CPG industry.
Beyond business growth, I am committed to deepening my impact in the community. I aim to continue serving on influential boards, championing local entrepreneurship and creating pathways for underrepresented founders to break into CPG, retail and manufacturing.
I also aspire to build long-term partnerships that strengthen our local food ecosystem, support Midwestern farmers and create new opportunities for economic development across the state.
Most importantly, I want to honor my family’s legacy of service — using our platform to give back, inspire future leaders and demonstrate that a small family recipe from Iowa can make a global impact when driven by purpose, authenticity and heart.