Ten Leaders To Know: Jodi Schweiger [Full Profile]

Company: The Iowa Clinic

Title: Executive Director Business Development

Birth City: Audubon

Current City: Adel

Q: How did you get where you are today?
A: My career began as a registered dietitian, driven by my deep passion for health, wellness, and helping people live better lives. Over time, I saw an opportunity to expand that impact on a broader scale. When I transitioned to The Iowa Clinic, I was welcomed by strong leadership and physicians who gave me the white space to create and innovate a bold idea: to create an Executive Health program that would redefine the patient experience and reflect the Clinic’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and patient-centered care. I took that challenge head-on, designing, launching, and scaling what became Iowa’s top-ranked program. That moment marked a turning point, not just in my career, but in how I saw my role in health care. Since then, I have continued to build and lead with purpose, developing new service lines, forging strategic partnerships, and driving strategic growth in other areas.

Q: What excites you the most about the business you work in?
A: What excites me most is the opportunity to make a real, lasting difference in people’s lives. Healthcare is deeply personal, and at The Iowa Clinic, we’re not just delivering services — we’re creating experiences that change outcomes and often change lives. Every time I hear a patient's story about how our care helped catch something early, navigate a complex diagnosis, or simply feel seen and supported, it reminds me why this work matters. We’re in a business where purpose and impact intersect every single day. Whether it’s a patient who shares how our Executive Health program saved their life, or an employer who tells us their team is healthier and more engaged because of our partnership, those moments are incredibly meaningful. They’re a testament to what’s possible when you bring together clinical excellence, innovation, and a culture that truly puts people first.

Q: What do you see as the next big trend in your industry?
A: Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming healthcare from reactive to proactive. AI-powered tools are streamlining administrative tasks like documentation and prior authorizations, reducing clinician burnout and cutting costs. In clinical settings, AI enhances diagnostics, predicts disease risk, and enables personalized treatment plans based on genetics and lifestyle. Ultimately, AI will serve as a trusted co-pilot for clinicians- augmenting human expertise rather than replacing it.

Q: Where do you look for inspiration or to generate new ideas?
A: I find inspiration by looking beyond healthcare and exploring industries that are excelling in areas like customer experience, operational efficiency, or technology adoption. \Often, the most innovative ideas come from applying proven strategies from other sectors to healthcare in a way that improves outcomes and streamlines processes. I love solving complex problems, and for me, that means asking: Who’s doing this well elsewhere? And then figuring out how to adapt those learning to create a meaningful impact in our space.

Q: What does effective leadership mean to you?
A: Effective leadership is about delivering meaningful results while inspiring others to grow, adapt, and lead with heart. I believe in creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to bring their best selves to the work we do. Leadership is not just about direction — it’s about connection, collaboration, and cultivating trust.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Iowa?
A: My favorite thing about Iowa is the people! There is a genuine kindness and sense of community here that you don’t find everywhere. ‘Iowa nice’ isn’t just a saying – it’s a way of life. People go out of their way to help each other, and that creates an environment where collaboration and trust thrive.

Q: What piece of advice would you give your younger self?
A: My advice would be to speak up, build relationships, and help others succeed. Your voice matters – don’t be afraid to share your ideas. Invest in connections because relationships open doors and create opportunities. And always look for ways to lift others up; when you help people succeed, you succeed too.

Q: Why are you a member of ABI?
A: I have been a member of ABI for 9 years. ABI provides resources and advocacy to support business growth. As an ABI Leadership Iowa graduate, I have been fortunate to connect with other leaders across the state, which has led to partnerships, client growth, and long-term relationships.

Q: Who do you look to for mentorship?
A: I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to have exceptional mentors who supported my professional growth. These mentors have had success in their own careers and enjoy giving back. Finding a mentor who has relevant experience and expertise, shares similar values and leadership style, invests time willingly, provides constructive feedback, and offers a diverse perspective are some of the greatest qualities that make mentorship truly impactful.

Q: As a business leader, what book would you recommend for personal or professional growth?
A: Dare to Lead by Brene’ Brown