How a CEO Launched a Successful Consulting Company in DSM

This article includes an interview with Dave Machovsky, President & CEO of Mindset Innovations Consulting, about his experiences launching and growing his business in Greater Des Moines (DSM).

Relocating to Greater Des Moines

Q: What originally brought you to the DSM region?

Dave Machovsky: I was actually scouted by a multi-billion dollar corporation that had a strong presence in Iowa. It took them about two years to get me, but I eventually accepted their offer and relocated to the area to lead operations for one of their key locations. That opportunity is what brought me here — and once I experienced the energy, work ethic and community of DSM, I knew this was a place I could truly build something meaningful.

Q: What community do you live in? What do you love most about living there?

DM: I live in Waukee. What I love most is the strong sense of growth and opportunity … it’s a vibrant, expanding community with a small-town feel and big-picture energy. It’s a great place to raise a family, build a business and stay connected to both people and progress.

Building a Business in Greater Des Moines

Q: Why did you decide to start Mindset Innovations Consulting? Briefly explain its mission.

DM: I was called to start this company. Yes, I had a successful career — invented seven patents, led operations for a multi-billion-dollar corporation and could’ve comfortably retired there. But once I became certified in coaching, mentoring and leadership, something shifted. I found my calling. I realized everything I had experienced wasn’t just for me — it was meant to be shared. Before I launched Mindset Innovations Consulting, I wrestled with fear, imposter syndrome and the weight of “what if.” But then I came across this quote:

“If you think the price of success is too high, imagine getting the bill from regret.”

That hit me hard. I knew I’d regret not starting this. And I knew the mission was bigger than me — it was about the masses who could benefit from the tools, mindset and clarity I had to offer.

So, I built this company to empower leadership, ignite innovation and create lasting change. And I didn’t build it alone. I built a powerhouse team of talented individuals who bring the same passion and depth of experience to the table. Together, we’re delivering top-tier consulting and coaching services across the country — and even coaching counselors and therapists. I didn’t see that one coming, but here we are, making real impact.

At the core of what we teach is this: the right mindset changes everything.

Our mission is fueled by those “ah-ha” moments that transform people, teams and businesses. We dare, we adapt and we win — and we help others do the same.

Q: Who is the Mindset Innovations Consulting target audience, and how can you help them find success?

DM: We work with manufacturers, emerging leaders and blue-collar teams — especially those facing high turnover, poor morale or leadership gaps. We help these teams create structure and consistency by blending TWI training, coaching and leadership development. When people feel empowered, supported and equipped, success follows.

Q: How do you utilize Training Within Industry (TWI) to help leadership in the region?

DM: TWI is one of our core offerings — and we go beyond the basics. We deliver hands-on training in Job Instruction, Job Relations, Job Safety, Advanced Job Relations, TWI Problem Solving and Job Methods. Each module is designed to equip leaders and frontline workers with practical tools that drive results: teaching tasks consistently, building trust and respect, prioritizing safety, solving problems at the root and improving processes by eliminating waste.

TWI gives leaders a repeatable system that creates structure, clarity and confidence — all essential for high-performing teams. It’s not just about fixing problems; it’s about building capability that sticks.

Q: What makes Mindset Innovations Consulting different from other consulting companies?

DM: We don’t believe in off-the-shelf solutions. What sets us apart is the combination of real-world experience, a high-performing team and deep partnerships across the country. I’ve personally led teams, built machines, fought wildfires and coached leaders in the toughest environments — but it’s not just about me. Our team is made up of top-tier professionals, each with their own zone of genius in leadership, operations, instructional design and workforce development.

We also partner with colleges to co-create curriculum, embed certification pathways and connect learning to real-world application. Our reach is national — we serve clients across Louisiana, Colorado, Iowa, Maryland, Connecticut and more. We also incorporate Kaizen facilitation to help companies make continuous improvement part of their culture, not just a one-time initiative.

In fact, one client has hired us for one week per month for an entire year to work specifically on improving morale and reducing turnover — and we’re making tremendous strides together. Whether it’s frontline development, coaching leadership, or building momentum through problem-solving, we deliver practical, customized solutions that drive real results.

Q: How have your past experiences helped shape your business?

DM: I’ve been a wildland national firefighter, machine designer/innovator, operations leader and coach. I’ve built machines, led crews, invented solutions and been in high-pressure environments where leadership made or broke outcomes. All of that shaped how I serve people today — with empathy, structure and a relentless drive to make things better.

Q: How has Mindset Innovations Consulting benefited from being founded in DSM?

DM: DSM is full of possibility and collaboration. The region has a unique blend of innovation and heart and I’ve seen firsthand how people rally around local businesses. Whether it’s partnerships, speaking engagements or pilot opportunities — DSM has helped our company grow and thrive.

Q: What goals have you set for your business? What do you hope to accomplish in the next year / five years?

DM: In the next year, we’re scaling our mastermind programs, expanding TWI offerings and growing our Golden Blueprint leadership resource hub. In five years, the goal is to be a nationally recognized partner in leadership development and operational training — impacting thousands of businesses and lives through mindset-driven transformation.

Utilizing Entrepreneur Resources in Greater Des Moines

Q: What local resources have you utilized to help build your business in the region?

DM: Groups like the Urbandale Chamber, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, CIRAS (Iowa State’s MEP program) and local manufacturing alliances have played a major role. They’ve helped us get connected with the right people, supported our growth and helped amplify the impact of what we do.

Q: Are there any DSM events or local networking opportunities that you’ve found helpful?

DM: Absolutely. Chamber events, Business After Hours, manufacturing roundtables and leadership forums have all been incredibly valuable. They’re not just great for visibility — they’re where real conversations happen and partnerships begin. I also run local problem-solving workshops and mastermind groups, which have helped us connect even deeper.

Advice from a DSM Entrepreneur

Q: What skills have helped make you successful in your work?

DM: Listening deeply, coaching authentically and solving problems at the root. I bring a builder’s mindset and a coach’s heart to every client. I also have the ability to break down complex issues into simple, repeatable actions — and that’s where real transformation happens.

Q: What advice would you give to others who might be interested in starting a business in DSM?

DM: Start with people. Be authentic, be consistent and bring real value. DSM is a place where people will support you if you show up with purpose and passion. Build relationships first — and the rest will follow.

Learn more about Mindset Innovations Consulting at mindsetinnovationsconsulting.com and connect with Dave at davemachovsky@gmail.com.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership celebrates the Greater Des Moines (DSM) entrepreneur community and helps small businesses succeed with one-of-a-kind resources and opportunities for networking. Find out how other entrepreneurs have found success by reading their stories and attending local small business events in the region.