Abi Reiland

Senior associate, JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle) / owner, CrossFit 8035

Age: 39

Husband: Luke Reiland 

Children: Gage Hoppenworth, Oakly Reiland

Reasons she is a Forty: 2023 marks Abi’s 10th year as a Des Moines/Central Iowa small business owner, and 15 years being actively involved in various community initiatives. In addition to hosting annual fundraisers and holiday drives for a number of local nonprofit organizations, Abi serves on the board of directors for the Young Women’s Resource Center and Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (a YSS organization), serves as board co-chair of communications for CREW Iowa (Commercial Real Estate Women of Iowa), serves as committee contributor for the Beacon Cake Gala, and was formerly part of the executive leadership team for the American Heart Association Heart Ball.

What are your goals in your role at your company? With the support of my JLL team, I aim to be the go-to commercial real estate broker for area business leaders, guiding them through transactions as a tenant representative. My CrossFit 8035 team and I are focused on community growth by empowering all ages and abilities through adaptable and inclusive fitness. 

What are your goals for your community involvement? The JLL women and I have been working on an event for women in business that promotes empowerment, accessibility and engagement. Taking Up Space is a no-cost opportunity for women in leadership and aspiring leaders to come together for an interactive panel that speaks specifically to the unique female professional experience.

What's your biggest passion, and why? Empowering women of all ages to become whatever and whoever they want to be. I was fortunate enough to grow up with family, teachers and coaches who helped me develop a foundation of confidence. Every girl/woman deserves the opportunity to believe in their limitless potential.  

What is it that drives you? My children are a constant reminder that any impact I have in the community doesn’t end with my personal contributions. I want my kids to see me work hard, pursue success by my own definition, seek joy, express gratitude and pay it forward so they can have their own impact.

What are your future aspirations? I intend to get more involved in the commercial real estate community through additional participation in ICREA (Iowa Commercial Real Estate Association), as well as earn my Certified Commercial Investment Member designation. Additionally, I hope to establish new partnerships that make functional fitness more accessible for all demographics.

Three hobbies: I’m an adventure seeker, so traveling with my family is always at the top of my list, especially anything that involves snorkeling in the Caribbean, hiking to waterfalls, sun and sand.  You can also find me supporting the Cyclones, Chiefs and Bonus Points Wrestling, and when it’s nice out I’m all about a round of golf.

Fun fact: Several years ago, Abi completed a bucket list item earning an M.S. in psychology, with an emphasis on women in leadership. Abi is also an amateur art collector and gemstone enthusiast.

One word to describe you: Audacious.

What is your wish for the Central Iowa business community? I hope that we continue shining a spotlight on small businesses throughout Central Iowa. Because they are such an imperative part of the growth and diversification of our community, supporting our small businesses should be a top priority.

What's one piece of advice that you would give to a young professional? Do not fear failure. Some of the greatest lessons I have learned, and some of the best opportunities for personal and professional growth, have come from experiencing a failure of some kind.

What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address? Workplace equity is something I’d love to see more leaders openly discussing in Central Iowa. Organizations that place emphasis on workplace equity not only identify and acknowledge needs related to a wide range of demographics, they also actively work at fair treatment, access and advancement for all employees. Whether it’s wage gaps/transparency, appropriate maternity and paternity leave, or diverse representation in leadership, organizations openly discussing workplace equity policy and protocol are hugely benefiting the community culture.