Legacy Leavers

Join us as we celebrate the visionaries that have shaped, and are shaping, Greater Des Moines through philanthropy, leadership and service.

On Legacy Leavers,  we sit down with remarkable individuals who have a history of using their influence, vision and resources to leave a lasting legacy in our community and beyond.

At the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, we believe we’re Simply Better Together — and these powerful and inspiring stories prove it. From personal turning points to powerful acts of giving, we explore what truly drives a life of legacy. Follow now on your favorite podcast platform!

Season 1

From Fast Breaks to Foundations with Nolden Gentry 

About the Episode

Today on Legacy Leavers, we welcome Nolden Gentry — a trailblazer whose journey from the basketball courts of Rockford, Illinois, to the legal and civic arenas of Des Moines exemplifies leadership, resilience and community commitment.  

A standout athlete at the University of Iowa, Nolden chose to channel his drive and discipline into the field of law, becoming a founding partner of Brick Gentry, P.C., where he practiced law for over five decades.  

Beyond his legal career, Nolden has been a dedicated public servant, serving as the first African-American elected to the Des Moines School Board and contributing to numerous organizations, including the Iowa Public Television Foundation, Prairie Meadows board of directors and the University of Iowa Foundation Board.   

In alignment with our belief that we’re simply better together, Nolden’s story is a testament to the power of service and the enduring impact of giving back.  

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    Shattering Glass Ceilings with Connie Wimer

     
     
    About the Episode

    Today on Legacy Leavers, we're honored to sit down with one of the most influential voices in Greater Des Moines — Connie Wimer.

    As the founder and chair of Business Publications Corporation, Connie has spent decades shaping how our community sees itself — telling the stories of our leaders, our challenges and our growth. 

    But her legacy extends far beyond the page. A trailblazer for women in business, a civic leader and a champion of collaboration, Connie has helped pave the way for generations of leaders to come. 

    True to our belief that we’re simply better together, her story is one of resilience, bold vision and the quiet power of elevating others. 

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