Meet the Team

John Campbell

Chief Executive Officer & Founder

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

Chief Operating Officer

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

Chief Revenue Officer

Gabbi Sarcone is the Chief Revenue Officer at Blue Frog, where she has been an integral part of the team since 2018. With a background in digital technology and analytics, Gabbi oversees the agency’s relationship with HubSpot, helping clients align technology and strategies to meet their unique business challenges. Her expertise and leadership were instrumental in helping to elevate Blue Frog to Elite Solutions Partner status with HubSpot in 2022. Prior to joining Blue Frog, Gabbi was based in Chicago where she worked at renowned digital media agencies, specializing in technology and analytics for brands such as State Farm and Miller-Coors.

Kevin Benson

Director of Revenue Operations

Mike Wessel

Director of Consulting Services

Jillian Streit

Director 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.

Michelle Hilsabeck

Director of Client Onboarding

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

My background is in print, advertising, and digital marketing. I appreciate the team’s expertise here at Blue Frog, which encompasses a wide range of activities, including inbound marketing, graphic and web design, content strategy, sales and marketing alignment, as well as consulting on a variety of business needs.

Alex Halsted

Business Consultant

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.

Mallory Armstrong

Business Consultant

As a strategy lover and champion for businesses, my role as a business consultant reflects the value of Blue Frog as our clients' strategic business partner. My primary responsibilities are understanding the business and industry of each of our clients, and ensuring all strategies align with business goals and priorities.

I joined the Blue Frog team in 2018, and something I have loved since my first day is being surrounded by people who want to learn and innovate. I was raised by educators, and the value of lifelong learning has been at the center of everything I do. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Northwest Missouri State University, and Master of Arts in Management from Briar Cliff University.

When I'm not working, I am busy raising a strong-willed two year old with my husband, and loving my cat more than he loves me. Or quizzing someone if they know where the Home of Friendly People is. If you don't know where that is, let's have a conversation.

Tierney Needham

Business Consultant

I was born and raised amongst the cornfields of small-town Iowa, but now call the rural landscapes of Washington state home. When I'm not working, you can often find me at the gym or camping and exploring the great outdoors with my golden retriever, Jax.

With my roots in project management, I'm detail-oriented and organized. But I'll tap into my creative side by scrapbooking, crafting and challenging myself in the kitchen with new recipes.

My journey with Blue Frog originally started in 2019, and I have always appreciated the exceptional team atmosphere and drive for excellence that Blue Frog has cultivated. The environment centers on collaborating to uncover the best solutions for each client. We don't just get the work done—we find joy and purpose in the process. I feel grateful to be surrounded by such a thoughtful, talented group and look forward to the continued growth opportunities here.

Chloe Lachacz

Business Consultant

Nick Hinzmann

Sr. Solutions Architect

I am a die-hard fan of the Minnesota Twins, Wild, Vikings and Gophers. I also enjoy watching UNI Panther football and basketball, as well as spending time with my cat, Chuck.

I’m truly impressed with the way all of the employees at Blue Frog work in unison on large varieties of projects. I enjoy being a part of our culture and getting to see positive results as well.

Aashray Mehta

Sr. Solutions Architect

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.

Hannah Swift

Sr. Project Manager

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.

Haley Maul

Project Manager

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.

Morgan Fontana

Project Manager

I’m a proud Iowa State graduate from a small town in Iowa. When I’m not at work, you can find me indulging in true crime podcasts or enjoying a good reality TV binge while cuddled up with one (or all) of my fur babies. I'm also a passionate football fan, spending my Saturdays cheering on the Cyclones and my Sundays anxiously hoping my fantasy team doesn’t tank.

I'm excited to be part of the Blue Frog team and look forward to continuing my growth in this amazing environment alongside such a talented group of people.

Ross Wesselmann

Project Manager

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.

Miranda Ellerbach

Onboarding Project Manager

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

Creative Project Manager

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.

Laura Stroup

HubSpot Admin

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.

Kennedy Korth

HubSpot Admin

Jay Meekins

Web 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.

Ashley McDowell

Web Developer

CJ Frascht

Project Manager

Hi, I'm CJ, and I was born and raised in Iowa. Outside of my role at Blue Fog, I'm a competitive dance coach, where I get to combine my passion for creativity with a commitment to excellence. I'm highly organized and detail-oriented, which helps me stay focused and efficient, whether I'm working on a project or coaching my team. 

I thrive on using creative thinking and process improvements to drive results, and I'm passionate about building trust with my team and clients. I truly believe that strong relationships and collaboration lead to the best outcomes.

I love being a part of the Blue Frog team, where culture and collaboration come together to create meaningful success. When I'm not working, you'll usually find me traveling or spending time outdoors, always seeking new adventures and fresh perspectives.

Mary Nelson

Graphic Designer

Native to Des Monies and a proud Iowa State Graphic Design alum. With a strong marketing background, I specialize in aligning designs with brand guidelines to enhance user engagement and drive measurable results. When I'm not straining my eyes in front of the computer, you'll find me staying active with my golden retriever pup, getting cozy with a good book, cheering on the Cyclones in Ames (a lifelong die-hard), hopping on a plane to explore somewhere new, or spending time with friends and family - preferably by a body of water.

Everyone at Blue Frog plays a vital role in the process and is deeply committed to excellence and growth. Being part of a team that strives to excel every day is truly special. Blue Frog upholds high standards, and it's a privilege to be a part of that.

Ryan Rogers

Project Manager

I’m from Eastern Iowa and a graduate of Loras College. I come from an athletic and competitive family, which is where I got my love for sports and being outside. Whether it’s slow-pitch softball, volleyball, or pickle ball, that’s how I like to spend my free time. I’m always on the lookout for cool dive bars with good vibes and great pizza spots in the area. 

I’m excited to be a part of such a dynamic and innovative team at Blue Frog. Here, each day is an opportunity for career growth and learning. I love collaborating with my talented team and playing a role in client marketing and sales solutions, watching them come to life and drive success.

Evette Westphal

Office Manager

Growing up in North Carolina, you could always find me outside, either building forts in the woods, racing go-karts, playing with my siblings, or playing some sort of sport. We moved to Iowa the summer before my senior year in high school, where I went from a graduating class of over 5000 to just 23. Welcome to small-town Iowa! After high school, I went to Northwest Missouri State University (Go Bearcats!), where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Mass Media: Multimedia Journalism. After graduating, I went on to earn my Masters or Arts in Leadership in Student Affairs from the University of St. Thomas in the Twin Cities. After grad school, I worked in higher education, where I taught a few classes and worked mainly with first-year students and student athletes in Residence Life and Campus Life. I eventually found my way to Blue Frog by way of multi-family and commercial property management. 

These days you'll catch me watching hockey and football, crafting, baking, reading, drinking way too much coffee, and hanging out with my husband, our daughter, and our three dogs.

I think what I love most about Blue Frog are the people. I've never encountered a group of folks who are so caring, knowledgeable, passionate, and welcoming! How blessed am I that I get to help foster a positive and engaging environment for everyone to work and learn in.

Diane Campbell

Editor

I’m an Iowa native and University of Iowa graduate who has been living in the Pacific Northwest for more than 25 years. I love living amid the PNW’s natural beauty and having easy access to our forests, mountains, and beaches.

With a background in writing and teaching, I enjoy my work with Blue Frog because it allows me to learn new things every day as I help others improve their writing. 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 to spend with my family.