Matthew Callanan

Attorney/member, Belin McCormick PC

Age: 33

Spouse: Carly Correll

Mentor: Steve Locher, U.S. magistrate judge for the Southern District of Iowa.

Reasons he is a Forty: When Belin attorneys joined the Iowa Supreme Court and the federal judiciary, Matt immediately took the lead on several legal matters. He joined Belin’s management committee and helped lead the firm during a tumultuous 2021. He stepped in as a mentor for young attorneys and became Belin’s recruiting chair. Matt is a 2021 Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute Community Leadership Program graduate. He serves on the boards of the Civic Music Association and Anawim Housing, finding an ever-strengthening voice. Matt also gives back, helping plan Can Play’s Game for Good and serving as a Big Brother at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa.

What are your goals in your role at your company? To carry on Belin’s legacy of excellence. With colleagues leaving for the judiciary, I’m in a wonderful position to grow my own practice and mentor younger colleagues. People are the key to success. As recruiting chair, I will continue to attract talented attorneys to the area. 

What are your goals for your community involvement? To take my involvement to the next level. There’s a difference between participating and leading. I hope to join the Anawim Housing executive board and find innovative ways to support those who need our help the most.

What's your biggest passion, and why? Mentoring. I would not be where I am without the help of countless role models who cared enough to give me advice, support me and show me compassion. No one can unlock their full potential without some help along the way; it’s my turn to help.

What is it that drives you? People need litigation help only on their worst days. I don’t take that lightly. It's an honor to have their trust. I can’t let them down. Community is the foundation of happiness; I need to do my part.

What are your future aspirations? Generally, to be a good person and make the world a bit better. Specifically, to encourage the growth of arts programs in Des Moines and address the immense shortage of affordable housing in Central Iowa. Joining the bench has also been a dream (but don’t tell my law partners).

Three hobbies: Power Life Yoga, binge-watching TV with my wife, supporting local breweries.

Fun fact: In college, Matt starred in “The Last Five Years,” a two-person musical. (Check out the movie starring Anna Kendrick.) This was one of many musicals on his resume.

One word to describe you: Resilient.

What is your wish for the Central Iowa business community? The pandemic has reemphasized that employees are much more than just employees: They are people with interests, demands and issues outside of their jobs. I urge leaders to approach employees with compassion, understanding and grace.

Anything else you haven't addressed that people must know about you? I am entirely too obsessed with my weiner-dog mix, Walter. Yes, I will show you a million pictures. And yes, we really do have the same birthday, just with a 30-year gap.

What's one piece of advice that you would give to a young professional? Don’t be afraid to ask for help or admit when you make a mistake. We’re all constantly learning, and the “experts” were once in your shoes. We all make mistakes. The inability to ask for help or to admit your faults is a sign of insecurity, not strength.

What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address? Although Central Iowa is a leader in several metrics, it must find a way to improve living conditions for all people, not just some. The statistics are staggering, and it is clear minority populations in Iowa do not have the same opportunities and privileges as others. This must change — and it cannot be left for “someone else” to address. Unless those that have been provided opportunities and privileges get involved, little will change.