Emerging Leaders Conference

Bob Chonka, Speaker, Sollah Interactive, LLC

Bob Chonka is co-leader of Sollah, an award-winning learning solutions company that has transformed workplace culture for over 6 million employees worldwide. He has over 25 years in the training industry since beginning his career in the 1990s at American Media Incorporate (the #1 training film organization at the time).
Bob oversees business strategy and spearheads creative development. He is hands-on when developing Sollah’s Hollywood-caliber video productions leveraging advanced learning psychology, transcending conventional training models to create lasting behavioral change. This innovative methodology has proven particularly powerful in addressing contemporary workplace challenges, from navigating generational dynamics to fostering authentic inclusivity.
Bob’s philosophy centers on relationship-building and respect, helping organizations prioritize employee success to create enduring partnerships that drive long-term value. He strives to create content that strikes a unique chord by engaging both heart and mind, seamlessly translating learning into actionable workplace behaviors.
Bob complements his corporate acumen with competitive tennis and contemplative fishing expeditions, embodying the art of work-life synergy.

Carrie Steffen, CEO, Iowa Society of CPAs

Steffen brings more than 25 years of experience in the accounting profession to ISCPA, most recently as co-founder and president of The Whetstone Group where she has promoted the discipline of growth among firms of all sizes ranging from sole practitioners to the top national firms. She has not only influenced firm leaders, but also shaped thousands of professional staff, marketing resources and other industry consultants through her speaking and training efforts.

Prior to The Whetstone Group, Steffen was a national marketing director for RSM US LLP. She has been named to the Association for Accounting Marketing Hall of Fame, Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential Consultant to Watch list and the Corridor Business Journal 40 Under 40 List. Steffen is a member and past president of CPA Consultants’ Alliance (CPACA) and has held various roles with the National Association for Accounting Marketing (AAM) including board member, treasurer, finance committee chair, and education committee chair. She’s a frequent guest on industry leading podcasts including the Accounting Today podcast, AICPA’s Small Firm Podcast and has been a featured guest on the AICPA’s Town Hall.

Steffen has been widely published in Accounting Today, INSIDE Public Accounting, The AICPA’s Journal of Accountancy, AAM’s MarkeTrends: The Journal of Accounting Marketing, CPA Practice Management Forum and numerous state society and accounting network publications. She is also co-author of the book “Bridging the Gap: Strengthening the Connection between Current Emerging Leaders.” She has presented for the AICPA, the Association for Accounting Marketing’s (AAM) Annual Summit, and various state society events.

Lindsay Pilgrim, VP of Human Resources, Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Company

Lindsay Pilgrim has worked in strategic HR roles for over 20 years in industries ranging from healthcare, technology, distribution, and insurance. Currently, Lindsay serves as the Vice President of Human Resources for Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Group, where she oversees the HR functions for about 300 employees nationwide. Lindsay is originally from NE Iowa and holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa. In her spare time, Lindsay attends the activities for her 4 kids, while trying to squeeze in some boating and golfing in the summer months.

Lynsey Mulder, Speaker, Mulder Consulting LLC

Lynsey Mulder is a dynamic speaker, accomplished coach, and the visionary behind SparkLife—a journey that has empowered individuals, teams, and organizations to unlock potential, ignite passion, and take inspired action. As a leading authority on business and life strategy, Lynsey combines her wealth of experience with a passion for helping others create intentional, fulfilling lives.

With a career spanning Fortune 100 C-suite leadership, founding her own company, and raising four amazing boys, Lynsey has a unique perspective on balancing ambition and life’s complexities. She splits her time between speaking at conferences, collaborating with organizations, and inspiring students on college campuses across the country. Lynsey also works one-on-one with individuals as an elite coach, holding three certifications and a reputation for helping clients achieve extraordinary results.

Known for transforming game-changing ideas into practical takeaways, Lynsey connects with audiences in a way that is relatable, energizing, and unforgettable. Her strategies are built on years of experience and are designed to empower others, elevate them to new levels, and inspire them to reach goals they once thought impossible.

Her keynotes and workshops are packed with engaging stories, high-energy exercises, and actionable tools that attendees can apply immediately—whether sparking new possibilities at work, transforming team culture, or reigniting personal growth. Lynsey has spoken at conferences, colleges, and companies nationwide, leaving a ripple effect of energized, motivated, and inspired attendees who are ready to create lasting change.