Meet the Team

John Campbell

President

I’ve founded three companies throughout my career, building each from initial concept to profitability. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my son and two Weimaraners, Penny and Piper.

Blue Frog isn’t just another outsourced marketing firm. We’re a strategic partner dedicated to expanding the success of every business we work with.

Kelsey Halverson

Vice President

I’m an ISU girl but a Minnesota native at heart. You’ll be able to tell by my collection of Minnesota coffee mugs. I survive on coffee and Dr. Pepper, and I absolutely love the creative outlet my job entails.

I feel fortunate to be working with a group of people who truly work together as a team to provide clients a large variety of valuable resources for their businesses.

Gabbi Sarcone

Executive Director of Strategy

I am passionate about using data-driven insights to connect our outstanding client solutions to the right opportunities at the right time. The Blue Frog team is stacked with specialists in their respective areas of expertise who teach me something new every day.
My fun fact is that I’m a classically trained operatic soprano. So when I’m not in the office, I enjoy teaching private voice lessons, judging high school musical theater performances and singing with ensembles around town.

Michelle Hilsabeck

Director of Client Services

As an Iowa-lifer, I grew up in Toledo and have lived in the greater DSM metro since living in Ames after graduating from ISU. My husband Jeff and I have a son, Cason, whom we love spending time with. I like sunrises, all the Christmas lights, the Iowa State Fair, and I'm a rare breed who enjoys Mondays.

I'm coming to Blue Frog with a deeply engrained focus on client relationships, and a passion for partner-based solutions, along with a frequent tendency to break into song. I'm excited to be part of a dynamic organization that is leading the way in next-level inbound marketing with a team of passionate individuals.

Greg Hensel

Senior Consultant

I work out of our office in Huron, Ohio. My background is in print, advertising, and digital marketing. I like how our team’s expertise encompasses a wide range of marketing activities, including inbound marketing, graphic and web design, blogging, social media management, technical writing, email marketing, direct mail, printing, and fulfillment.

Jillian Streit

Lead of Research & Training

When I’m not working, you can probably find me crafting, snuggling up with my cat, adding another plant to my collection, or enjoying some time outdoors. I am always up for an adventure and will happily share stories about my travels around the world. My favorite season is football season and I love cheering on the Cyclones!

I love the atmosphere at Blue Frog because it fosters a collaborative team environment centered around finding the best solutions for our clients. We don’t just do the work, but enjoy the work in the process.

Brennan Nowers

Lead Web Developer

Originally from New Mexico, I am a new resident of the beautiful state of Iowa and I am excited to explore all the scenic hiking and kayaking spots that it has to offer. In my spare time I play video games, read sci-fi novels, cross-stitch, and make memes.

Blue Frog is filled with an amazing group of talented and driven individuals and I am privileged being a part of this team and supporting our clients in any way I can.

Therese Kuhlman

Web Developer

I am a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa and have spent the majority of my life residing in the state. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, lifting, swimming and trying all kinds of new food. While not at Blue Frog, I can usually be found napping with my three cats or running around chasing after my husky puppy.

Blue Frog promotes an incredibly collaborative and creative work environment. I am fortunate to work alongside a team of passionate individuals who all share the same drive to deliver quality service and creative solutions.

Alex Halsted

Lead Strategist

I have always been sports-centric and enjoyed writing growing up, which is why the first part of my career was in sports writing. I am an Iowa native, which has led to an odd mix of being a fan of the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Twins. Other than spending too much time obsessing over those teams I enjoy visiting craft breweries to try new beers (or just sticking with my go-to, Farmer John’s) and playing with my cat, Kirby, when he isn’t getting into mischief.

What I enjoy most about Blue Frog is the collaboration amongst the team that sees a project go from ideas to completion. Being able to work with clients on creative solutions and engaging content makes each day an exciting challenge.

Aashray Mehta

Web Developer

Originally from India, I came to Iowa when I started school at Iowa State University in 2016. While I have my Bachelor's in Software Engineering, I express my creativity with photography, specifically fashion photography and landscapes. I am a self-proclaimed coffee snob and when I'm not working, I'm usually at home watching YouTube videos, playing with my cat, Elio, or hanging with friends at a brewery.

Blue Frog is a collaborative and inclusive space and I am privileged to be part of a team of passionate and driven individuals.

AJ Liddell

Director of Revenue Operations

I am a lifelong Iowan who has spent my time all across the state. I received degrees in Finance and Marketing from Buena Vista University where I also played baseball. Sports are a large part of my life to this day, as is anything outdoors. In my free time you can always find me on a golf course, relaxing with friends, or hiking with my dog.

Blue Frog is a great place to work because there is a clearly aligned, team mindset to achieve the same goal, the success of our clients. Each day I am presented with an opportunity to challenge myself and learn something new to innovate and drive customer success.

Ross Wesselmann

Revenue Operations Strategist

I was born and raised in the Hawkeye State, but when it comes to sports teams, I bleed Kansas City. You will always see me take the time to stop and pet any dog that crosses my path. This kind of love extends to all animals, but especially my labradoodle Todd. When I’m not keeping that goober out of trouble, you can find me out around Des Moines with my close group of friends.

I’m extremely happy to go to work every day at a company like Blue Frog. The entire team here is focused on making sure our clients have a great experience and see results from the creative work we provide.

Katelyn Seese

Lead Creative

I am an animal-lover and tree-hugger who spends a lot of time cooking, biking, and binge-watching Bon Appetit videos. I studied marketing at Iowa State University and have always been drawn to digital marketing and content creation. Blue Frog has been the perfect place for my creative and analytical skills to come together to develop strategic and relevant content for the digital world. 

It's gratifying to work for a company that encourages so much creativity and collaboration. I love to be a part of a team that achieves meaningful and results-driven goals for our clients each day. 

Jane Azinger

Lead Designer

My favorite things include feminist icons, when dogs & cats are friends, squeaky clean all white sneakers, OCD level organization, and ranch. In my free time I watch documentaries on my favorite musical artists (mostly Bob Dylan) or true crime. I pride myself on my movie line knowledge and love to puzzle like Winston from New Girl.

I love Blue Frog because everyone here truly wants to work together to make the best experience possible for our employees and clients.

Lizzy Lyon

Lead Onboarding Strategist

I am fluent in two languages- Italian food and documentaries. I am passionate about traveling, finding a good deal, and supporting my alma mater, the Iowa State Cyclones. Go State! Although I was never able to memorize math equations or the periodic table, I have a strong ability to memorize movie lines, and can essentially quote any movie you throw my way!

It is exciting to come to a dynamic work environment everyday where we challenge each other and still have fun. I am happy to be working for a company who values its customers and settles for nothing but high caliber work.

Carsyn Leclere

Junior Strategist

I am a native Iowan who graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Marketing and Spanish. In my free time I love to read, try new workout classes, watch reality tv, and spend time with my cats.

What I enjoy most about Blue Frog is the innovative and growth-focused environment we have here. I learn something new every single day and feel grateful to be part of such a hard-working team.

Tyler Kruzan

Strategist

I am a native Iowan who is a lover of all things sports and music. I have a bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems from Iowa State University. When I'm not at work you can find me playing tennis, traveling, or watching HBO's Game of Thrones. 

The Blue Frog culture fosters an atmosphere of creativity and pairs it with data-driven insights that deliver results - what's not to love?

Ethan Beatty

Strategist

I'm best described by close friends as the "Camp Dad" due to my ridiculous outdoor gear collection, and an uncanny desire to wear socks with sandals. I'm also a massive Iowa State fan and school alumni. Go Clones!

I love being a part of a team that brings out the best in me and allows me to return the favor. Combine great vision with a fantastic company culture and it becomes a no brainer how we drive client-centered success.

Hannah Swift

Junior Strategist

I am a self proclaimed "mom" to two doodles, Patrick and Pearl, who are my world. When I am not at work, you can find me on a patio with friends drinking a margarita, taking long walks around the East Village at sunset, binge reading a book in a day, and listening to 70s soft rock.

I look forward to coming into work at Blue Frog every morning because there is a limitless amount of knowledge and growth available to me. I love working with a collaborative team that has the same goal in mind: finding the best solutions for our clients.

Joe Porto

Creative Team Project Coordinator

I was born and raised in Des Moines and did not travel far for my Marketing degree at the University of Iowa. Outside of work you can find me hiking, camping, reading, watching movies, and playing my drum set.

I enjoy the collaborative nature of Blue Frog and the high standards we hold ourselves to.

Anna Curtis

Content Specialist

When I'm not at work, I'm probably working on one of many started crochet projects, trying out a new recipe, or playing with my attention-seeking tuxedo cat. I started as a journalist but changed paths during college and majored in public relations at Iowa State University.

As a journalist, I loved telling stories. At Blue Frog, I can help clients tell their business's unique story across multiple digital platforms to their customers and employees. It's rewarding to work on a project with a creative and collaborative team that pinpoints exactly what makes each client unique.

Haley Maul

Junior Analyst

In my free time I enjoy playing with my doggo (Millie) and cooking for my friends. I am always on the hunt for the best brunch spot, and my favorite time of year is the fall because nothing is better than tailgates and spooky season!

My favorite part about working at Blue Frog is the sense of community—whether that is the willingness from team members in different department to share their knowledge and skillsets, or the fun activities that are regularly planned for team bonding.

Whitney Petersen

Junior Strategist

Born and raised in a corn field. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa. I’m a simple woman. I love my cat, chicken wings, and the Iowa State Fair. In my free time, you can find me trying new local restaurants and spending time in the sun. 

I love working with such a dedicated, passionate group of people. They inspire me to be better within our team at Blue Frog and with our clients.

Heather Willrich

Office Manager

I am a Simpson College grad, with a background in Education. I live in a small town with my husband Daniel, and my three boys, Levi, Ben, and Seth. We will soon be adding a Boston Terrier puppy, named Frank, to the mix. In my down time, you will find me reading a good book, attending ISU Football games, or camping with my family.

When I decided to leave education and venture into the business world, my first choice was to work at Blue Frog, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. I enjoy working at Blue Frog due to my amazing coworkers. My favorite thing about being the office manager is putting my organizational skills to work. I love making lists, and organizing data and files.

Laura Stroup

Strategist

I live in Denver and am a true Coloradan! I enjoy skiing as much as possible, and hiking with my two pups, Lexi and Holly. I also enjoy traveling, wine tasting, and am a huge Denver Broncos fan.

I love the collaborative culture at Blue Frog. Everyone is a team player and works together to provide the best customer service possible.

Diane Campbell

Editor

I must love school because I’ve spent 23 years as a student and five as a teacher. This job is ideal for me because I get to research, write, and correct other people’s work while learning new things every day. 

I appreciate our team-oriented culture and the ability to work remotely, which saves me substantial time, money, and energy and gives me more time with family.

Jay Meekins

Graphic Designer

I am a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Graphic Design. Coffee, water, and chips are the fuel that keep me going throughout the week. I usually spend my free time playing board games and video games, listening to random podcasts, and watching movies and the latest tv shows.

Working with a group of people who expect the best from you, and are willing to help you give your best, is extremely rewarding. Blue Frog is a wonderful place and I’m looking forward to everything that we will accomplish in the future.

Richard Walsh

Director of Solutions Architecture

I love solving problems with technology to build integrated solutions that increase efficiency and effectiveness for our clients. The best part of my job is working with such a talented team to bring these solutions to life.

When I’m not at work, you can find me spending time with my family, taking photos of landscapes, hiking in the mountains, or listening to my favourite podcasts.

Tierra Hogan

Senior Strategist

From campaign conceptualization and execution to videography, and a splash of graphic design, I like to think of myself as the Swiss army knife of marketing. My skill set is diverse but gives me a unique perspective on marketing. I'm passionate about understanding an audience, telling a story, and creating marketing strategies that truly resonate.

I’ve lived and worked in China, New York, Kansas City (my hometown) and now Des Moines, IA and I couldn’t be more thrilled to join the Blue Frog team!

Alina Nowicki

Junior Strategist

I have three loves in this life: sunsets, golden retrievers, and a good slice of pizza. When I am not at the office, you can find me binge-watching New Girl for the millionth time, out running on the local trails, or on the hunt for the best moscow mule downtown Des Moines has to offer.

After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in Marketing, I knew I wanted to work in a setting that fostered a balance of analytical and creative thinking. Blue Frog has allowed me to flex both of these muscles, while surrounded by incredibly innovative, knowledgable, and fun people. I wake up everyday excited to learn and find new, creative solutions for our clients.

Corbin Haskin

Junior Developer

A Des Moines native, I have spent most of my life living in Norwalk. Recently I completed a Coding Boot Camp with Rice University and am excited to be making this career change. At home I have an American Bulldog, Zia, a grumpy cat, Kit Kat, and a supporting wife, Annie. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my 12 nieces and nephews, rooting for the Cyclones, watching Survivor, traveling, playing sand volleyball, and attempting to golf.

My favorite thing about working at Blue Frog is the culture… and that I can wear a hat! Blue Frog has built an incredible culture of passionate, motivated, goal-oriented individuals and I am ecstatic to call myself a Frogger.

Miranda Redalen

Web Strategist

I'm an Iowa State grad and a Minnesota native always on the hunt for live music, craft breweries, and fountain Pibb. My game doesn't show it, but I was raised on the golf course and still love to play. My professional background ranges from event management to user experience and I'm excited to bring my passion for data, research, and writing to the Blue Frog team.

I couldn't be happier working with such a collaborative team that is focused on discovering and creating the best solutions for our clients.

Christine Black

Designer

Originally born and raised in Maryland. Arizona State University graduate with a BS in Industrial Design, however, I found a profound love for graphic design since graduation. I have started a brand new adventure in Iowa and cannot wait to learn how to live in the Midwest and see how it compares to the coasts!

Blue Frog is an exceptional example of how a company can take care of their clients and their people in order to add value to lives and businesses. A rare thing, and I am so excited to grow and learn many new things with this great group of people.