Our Story
Caitlyn Shipley is a passionate and creative 2nd-grade teacher at Oak Park Elementary in Des Moines, Iowa. A proud graduate of Iowa State University, Caitlyn brings energy, empathy, and excellence to her classroom every day.Before becoming an educator, Caitlyn was an accomplished singer and performer, taking center stage as the lead in many school plays and musicals throughout her academic career. Her love for the arts didn’t stop there—she now passes that passion on to her students, incorporating music, performance, and creative expression into her lessons to inspire confidence and joy in learning.With a heart for children and a voice that once lit up the stage, Caitlyn blends her talents to build a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged to shine in their own unique ways. Whether she’s leading a sing-along, crafting a classroom play, or guiding her students through new challenges, Caitlyn’s warmth and creativity make a lasting impact on every young learner she teaches.
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Caitlyn Shipley
Caitlyn Shipley is a passionate and creative teacher in Des Moines, Iowa. A proud graduate of Iowa State University, Caitlyn brings energy, empathy, and excellence to her classroom every day.
Before becoming an educator, Caitlyn was an accomplished singer and performer, taking center stage as the lead in many school plays and musicals throughout her academic career. Her love for the arts didn’t stop there—she now passes that passion on to her students, incorporating music, performance, and creative expression into her lessons to inspire confidence and joy in learning.
With a heart for children and a voice that once lit up the stage, Caitlyn blends her talents to build a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged to shine in their own unique ways. Whether she’s leading a sing-along, crafting a classroom play, or guiding her students through new challenges, Caitlyn’s warmth and creativity make a lasting impact on every young learner she teaches.
Chris Shipley
Chris Shipley is the founder and creative force behind 3 Beards Media, a Central Iowa-based podcast network built on honest conversations, unfiltered opinions, and a deep commitment to community. Based in Norwalk, Iowa, Chris blends over 25 years of experience in IT and marketing with a passion for storytelling, humor, and connection.
A proud father of four and lifelong Iowan, Chris is the co-host of several original shows, including Old Man Strength, Like Father Like Daughter, and produces Billy & Willie's Workshop. Through these platforms, he tackles topics ranging from mental health and fatherhood to sports and social commentary—with a voice that’s both relatable and refreshingly candid.
Chris is also a vocal advocate for men’s mental health, using his personal experiences and platforms to spark real, vulnerable dialogue around anxiety, grief, and self-worth. Whether through fundraising events, local community involvement, or raw podcast episodes, Chris leads with heart, humor, and humility.
When he’s not behind the mic or building the 3 Beards Media brand, Chris serves as a marketing professional in the multifamily housing industry, bringing strategic insight and creative energy to every project he touches.
At the center of it all is his belief in the power of authenticity—and that telling the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, is the first step to making meaningful change.
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