Olesya Holker
Co-founder, executive director, HHD Production LLC
Age: 39
Husband: Jered Holker
Children: Haiden Holker
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
I migrated from Russia to the United States 12 years ago. In the relatively short period of time, I advanced from a customer service associate in retail to a lead business consultant for a major financial institution.
Beyond my corporate achievements, I created an award-winning documentary, “The Truth About Happiness and Wellbeing.” It is available on the Amazon Prime Video app nationally and internationally.
I am committed to sharing best practices for professional growth and personal well-being through speaking engagements, volunteer work and mentorship.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
In the world where so many find themselves on the brink of burnout, juggling the demands of work and personal obligations, the search for balance has never been more critical. My biggest passion is helping people to live a more mindful and fulfilled life.
What are your goals in your role at work?
My sister, Sophie Vlasova, and I co-founded HHD Production while filming “The Truth About Happiness and Wellbeing.” It was my passion project, where both of us wore multiple hats, including interviewing local leaders and experts in wellness. We will continue to film documentaries to shine a light on what matters.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
I'm the director of operations for the Association for Talent Development. ATD’s mission is to enhance the capabilities of our members, empowering growth through community and access to resources and learning opportunities. In February 2024, we hosted a professional development day, and we are planning another engaging event in 2025.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
Becoming a mother has been my most rewarding and challenging journey thus far. There's a conversation that's often overlooked about the significance and complexity of “raising good humans.” Now, everything I do aims to set a positive example for my son and improve the future for the generations to come.
What are your aspirations for the future?
Last year, I took a six-month sabbatical from my corporate career and started to write a book about how to find your purpose and live up to your highest potential. This project keeps evolving; I'm currently interviewing some amazing professionals. Stay tuned, it is going to be an amazing read!
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Whenever a recent graduate uncertain of their next steps asks for my advice, I always say, "Take any action.” Welcome unfamiliar experiences, regardless of their uncertain results. This approach expands your viewpoints, provides lessons from varied circumstances and fosters connections with individuals who may guide you or present new opportunities.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
Iowa, like many other states, has been affected by mental health challenges. It is evident that more adults and especially young Americans report feeling lonely, anxious and depressed. Various factors contribute to this crisis, and in recent years, there has been increasing efforts to address mental health issues in Iowa. I would like to see increased funding for mental health services, expanding access to care, and promoting education and awareness of nonpharmaceutical solutions as well.
What's one fun fact about you?
Since discovering the Audible app, I listen to about 40 nonfiction books a year. In 2023, I hit a new record of 75 books, which inspired me to begin writing my own self-help book.
Hobbies: I love traveling domestically and internationally. Yoga is my therapy, my on-and-off hobby, since I visited a Yogi Ashram in Siberia at 16 years old. I also enjoy reading a good nonfiction book.
One word that describes you: Enthusiastic.
What is your favorite local restaurant? We love to eat out and explore new places, but for special occasions, we continue to go back to Simon's for the great atmosphere and always delicious food.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Flux: 8 Superpowers for Thriving in Constant Change” by April Rinne.
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Since we have a 6-year-old boy, most of our weekend activities revolve around keeping him active and entertained. We are doing a lot of karate activities with the Dojo’s Family Martial Arts studio in West Des Moines or watching new kids’ movies at the Palms movie theater in Waukee. In the summers, we love to hang out at the local lakes or any other body of water with family and friends.