Unconventional Business Network

Tommy Bowden | Football Coach & Sportscaster
2022-10-27 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Download Flyer HereHead football coach at Tulane and Clemson Universities | Conference USA Coach of the Year | two-time ACC Coach of the Year | Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coach of the Year | ESPN and FOX sportscaster| Author of Winning Character: A Game Plan for Success
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For Tommy Bowden and his late father, legendary college football coach Bobby Bowden, one might say linking football with Christianity was a family endeavor. But what does a former renowned college football coach have in common with you, a Christian businessperson? A winning strategy. Whether you’re playing field is in in the football arena or boardroom, It’s all in the C.A.R.D.S. – commitment, accountability, responsibility, discipline and sacrifice. Hear Tommy Bowden challenging each one of us to be businesspeople of character and integrity.
More About TommyTommy Bowden is an unabashed evangelical Christian who openly confesses that he used his Christianity as a recruiting tool during his long and successful career coaching college football. His father, Bobby Bowden, the former Florida State football coach, helped create chaplaincies at schools across the South. One might say linking football with Christianity was a family endeavor.
From an outstanding student-athlete at West Virginia University, to the two-time ACC Coach of the Year at Clemson University, to widely sought-after motivational speaker, Tommy Bowden has dedicated his life to making a difference in others’ lives.
After spending several years as an assistant football coach at Florida State, Duke, Alabama, Kentucky, and Auburn Universities, Tommy Bowden became the head coach at Tulane University in 1997. In just his second season with Tulane, he led his team to an undefeated season, a Conference USA Championship and a win in the Liberty Bowl. Tommy was also named Conference USA Coach of the year.
In 1999, Tommy took the head coaching position at Clemson University. In that first season, the Tigers set or tied 41 school records, including 26 on offense. He was named Conference Coach of the Year in 1998, and ACC Coach of the year in both 1999 and 2003.
In 2006, Tommy received the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coach of the Year Award.
Since retiring from Clemson in 2008, Tommy has become one of the nation’s most sought-after motivational speakers. He has appeared as an expert college football analyst on ESPN television and radio, as well as, co-hosted two football television shows, one with FOX Sports and one with the ACC Football Network.
Tommy speaks frequently about leadership and recruiting outstanding teams.
Married to his high school sweetheart, Linda, for more than 40 years, Tommy and Linda have two children and four grandsons. He is a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ.

Des Moines City Connect: Auntie Anne Beiler
2023-02-09 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Auntie Anne Beiler is best known as the founder of Auntie Anne’s®, the world’s largest pretzel franchise. But before rising to success, Anne went through years of defeat, despair, and depression that kept her stuck in a place of darkness. It was through her pain, however, that she discovered a new purpose.
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Des Moines City Connect: Dr. Richard Blackaby
2023-06-29 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Dr. Richard Blackaby!Richard is the president of Blackaby Ministries International and lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Richard travels internationally speaking on spiritual leadership in the home, church, and marketplace as well as on spiritual awakening, experiencing God, and the Christian life. Richard regularly ministers to Christian CEOs, church, and family leaders.

Networking
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Des Moines City Connect: Stephen Kendrick
2023-10-12 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
From Pastor to Producer: The Stephen Kendrick StoryStephen Kendrick shares his journey from a small-town pastor in Georgia to big time movie producer. Best known for Overcomer and War Room, hear Kendrick’s incredible story and unconventional approach to movie production which left Sony’s executives heads spinning. Hint, God and prayer were at the heart of it. Don’t miss his unique and inspiring story!
Stephen Kendrick dedicates his life to Jesus Christ, making His truth and love known among nations. Former Senior Associate Pastor at Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia, Stephen writes, speaks and produces Christian films with brothers, Alex and Shannon – Comprising Kendrick Brothers Productions. Stephen is best known for his movies: Overcomer, War Room, Courageous, Fireproof, Facing the Giants, and Flywheel. He also co-wrote the NY Times bestselling books, The Love Dare, The Resolution for Men, and The Battle Plan for Prayer.

Networking
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Des Moines City Connect: Peter Demos
2024-02-22 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Courageous Faith in BusinessSuccessful business owner and restaurateur, Peter Demos, reveals the transformation of his business after his spiritual conversion. Tackling the prevalent feeling of isolation among business leaders, Peter offers practical insights and actionable steps for overcoming fears and integrating faith into the workplace. Walk away empowered to embrace courageous faith in business and foster a connected, purpose-driven work environment.
Esteemed speaker, Peter Demos is President and Attorney for Demos’ Brands of Restaurants, including Demos’ Restaurant and PDK Southern Kitchen and Pantry. As a highly accomplished leader in the hospitality industry, Peter is also President of D’s Seas Seasonings, SteakTech LLC, Demos Ventures LLC and Demos Enterprises LLC.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differentlyRegister Here

DSM City Connect: Tracy Bouwens
2024-06-06 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join Us for a Special Luncheon with Tracy Bouwens!Tracy Bouwens has been considered one of Scooter’s Coffee’s® rockstars for some time now. Bouwens, the owner of multiple Scooter’s Coffee locations, has been identified, by Franchise Business Review, as being one of the Rockstar Franchisees! Bouwens joins a very exclusive club. She was one of only 50 to receive the designation of Rockstar Franchisee, from a list of more than 28,000 nominees representing more than 300 brands.
Bouwens first joined with Scooter’s Coffee 14 years ago in Omaha. Now, she owns 40 Scooter’s Coffee restaurants in multiple states, with several additional leases signed for sites this year. She says she’s grateful for the recognition through the Rockstar Franchisee award.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differentlyRegister Here

Networking Event: Des Moines
2024-09-04 08:00 - 09:30 | Northbridge Event Center, 4530 E 46th St, Des Moines, IA, 50317, United States
Connect Over CoffeeGrow Your Professional Network
Who doesn’t love a good networking event, especially when coffee, pastries and conversations are involved? Mark your calendars and bring your business cards!

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differentlyRegister Here

DSM City Connect: Gary Harpst
2024-10-17 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Gary Harpst!Gary Harpst, CEO of LeadFirst, is known for his fusion of faith and work, fostering agile organizations. With four decades of experience, he founded three successful businesses, one of which merged and was sold to Microsoft. He has authored three impactful books, and educated on business-faith intersections.
As a veteran Christian CEO, Harpst’s journey encompasses business trials and growth. His latest book, “Built to Beat Chaos,” makes the biblical case that we are all created to overcome chaos. In fact, the biblical definition of leadership involves bringing order out of chaos. Chaos is not our problem but our purpose.
LeadFirst, under Harpst’s guidance, provides a faith-driven leadership operating system that equips leaders to integrate faith, business management, and leadership development.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differentlyRegister Here

DSM City Connect with Dave Hataj
2025-02-27 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Dave Hataj!About the Speaker: Dave Hataj | President of Edgerton Gear, Inc
Dave Hataj is the second-generation president and owner of Edgerton Gear, Inc., a Wisconsin-based custom gear manufacturer, where has worked for over 35 years.
He is a Journeyman machinist, has a BA from University of California, Irvine, a Masters of Christian Studies from Regent College in Vancouver BC, and a doctorate from Bakke Graduate University, developing a curriculum called Craftsman with Character. The course introduces high school students to the trades and manufacturing as an excellent career path, while developing
character and soft skills. The U.S. Navy has recently partnered with Dave to expand Craftsman with Character nationally.
He is the author of Good Work: How Blue Collar Business Can Change Lives, Communities, and the World.
Event Details:
Join us for a truly unique gathering at UBN's City Connect Luncheon, an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn't just about networking—it's about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in guided conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN's City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.
Download Flyer Here

DSM City Connect with Natalie Born
2025-06-12 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Natalie Born!About the Speaker: Natalie Born | Consultant, Author, Speaker, Podcaster
Natalie Born is a trusted advisor to C-level executives, keynote speaker, and the host of two podcasts: Innovation Meets Leadership, a top 25 innovation podcast listened to in over 80 countries, and Thrive Today, dedicated to empowering women in leadership. She is the author of the book Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation.

With over 20 years of experience in product development, strategy, and innovation, Natalie has collaborated on two approved U.S. patents and led initiatives across 18 countries. Her expertise lies in helping organizations drive growth, create award-winning strategies, and foster innovation. Natalie is married to Aaron, and together they are proud parents of two wonderful daughters.
Event Details:
Join us for a truly unique gathering at UBN’s City Connect Luncheon, an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differentlyIf you are a sponsor trying to register your guests please refer to the link provided in the sponsor flyer

Register HereDownload Flyer HereSponsor Registration & Flyer Here

DSM City Connect with Travis Shelton
2025-09-16 11:00 - 13:00 | Holiday Inn Des Moines Airport, 6111 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Travis Shelton!About the Speaker: Travis Shelton | Business Consultant, Speaker, Writer, Podcast Host
Travis Shelton is an executive financial coach, business consultant, speaker, writer, business owner, and host of the Meaning Over Money podcast. He engages in conversations about money and work through a different lens. His mission is to help individuals and businesses discover a more fulfilling and purposeful path by aligning their behaviors with their faith and core values.
Aside from running his own businesses, Travis has worked with dozens of businesses to help each unlock a more purposeful, profitable, and simpler operation. He also writes a daily blog called The Daily Meaning, which aims to provide its readers with a daily burst of insight and encouragement to start their day. He and his wife are blessed with twin nine-year-old sons, finding joy in family life and their local community.
Event Details:
Join us for a truly unique gathering at UBN’s City Connect Luncheon, an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking, it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differently

DSM: Networking Event
2025-10-09 08:00 - 09:30 | Northbridge Event Center, 4530 E 46th St, Des Moines, IA, 50317, United States
Grow Your Professional NetworkEvent Details:
Come ready to connect, learn, and grow with fellow Christian professionals who are passionate about living out their faith in the workplace. We look forward to seeing you!
RSVP Here!

DSM City Connect: Doug Hundt
2026-02-19 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Doug Hundt!About the Speaker: Doug Hundt | President of Industrial Solutions at Vermeer Corporation
Doug Hundt serves as President of Industrial Solutions at Vermeer Corporation, a global manufacturer of industrial and agricultural equipment that makes a real impact in a progressing world. At Vermeer, Doug leads the company’s global industrial businesses and guides strategy across key markets including environmental, mining, pipeline, and utility installation.
What does stewardship look like in the boardroom? Doug Hundt reveals how biblical principles—excellence, integrity, and the Golden Rule—translate into strategy and performance. Don’t miss this inspiring, actionable session at Des Moines City Connect on February 19, 2026.
Event Details:
UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

DSM Networking Event
2026-05-07 08:00 - 09:30 | New Hope, 4425 70th Street, Urbandale, IA, 50322, United States
Many Christian professionals carry a quiet question into their workday: How do I live my faith with integrity in my workplace, without compartmentalizing who I am?

This gathering is designed for those asking that question—and looking for others who are, too.

On May 7, join a group of professionals in Des Moines for a well-facilitated, intentional morning focused on connection, conversation, and shared purpose. Whether you’re early in your journey or have been integrating faith and work for years, you’re welcome here.

Our aim is simple and honest: to make it easier to meet other Christian professionals whose desire is to live and lead with faith shaping their work. This is a space to build relationships, exchange perspective, and experience community with others walking a similar path.

If you’ve been looking for a setting that feels grounded, sincere, and aligned with your values, we invite you to join us.

DSM City Connect: Jenni Catron
2026-06-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Jenni Catron! About the Speaker: Jenni Catron | Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group
Jenni Catron is a leadership expert, author, and speaker based in Neenah, Wisconsin. As the Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she specializes in developing healthy leaders and thriving organizations. With over 25 years of experience in both corporate and non-profit sectors, Jenni has held significant roles, including Executive Director at Cross Point Community Church and Executive Pastor at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. She is the author of Clout: Discover and Unleash Your God-Given Influence and The 4 Dimensions of Extraordinary Leadership, and she frequently speaks at conferences nationwide. Jenni holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Middle Tennessee State University and enjoys hiking and reading in her free time.
Event Details: UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices. Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals. What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

DSM City Connect: Barry Rowan
2026-09-24 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Barry Rowan!About the Speaker: Barry Rowan | Executive, Mentor, Author
Barry Rowan is a seasoned executive and trusted advisor with decades of C‑suite leadership experience across technology and communications companies, including Gogo, Vonage, Nextel Partners, and Fluke Corporation. Over his career, he has helped build and transform eight businesses through hypergrowth and turnaround, including the sale of a company for $10 billion. A Harvard Business School graduate and author of The Spiritual Art of Business, Barry is widely respected for his character‑driven leadership and commitment to developing the next generation of leaders through board service, mentorship, and community engagement.
As we gather for our City Connect in Des Moines, Barry’s depth of executive experience and passion for integrating purpose, leadership, and community offer a meaningful voice for conversations about building thriving organizations and cities where people and leaders can flourish.
Event Details:
UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

DSM Networking Event
2026-10-15 08:00 - 09:00 | TBD
