About Inspire DSM
Insurance Partners You Can Actually Trust
We get it. Shopping for insurance feels like navigating a maze blindfolded—confusing jargon, high-pressure sales tactics, and that nagging feeling you're being sold whatever pays the agent the highest commission.
That's exactly why we started Inspire DSM.
Meet Our Founders
The Team Behind Inspire DSM
Chris Janda
Founder
Building a Better Insurance Experience for Central Iowa
Chris founded Inspire DSM with a simple but powerful mission: to change the way people in our community think about insurance and money. After years working in traditional insurance and financial services, including roles at New York Life and Financial Architects, Chris saw firsthand how the industry often prioritized commissions over clients.
He knew there was a better way.
Today, Chris leads Inspire DSM with a focus on education, transparency, and genuine advocacy. He believes that when clients truly understand their coverage and financial options, they make better decisions and feel more confident about their future. That philosophy drives everything we do—from our discovery calls to our claims support.
Beyond Insurance
Chris is a proud Iowa Hawkeye (University of Iowa, 2008) and dedicated family man who values building strong relationships both in the office and in the community. When he's not helping clients protect what matters most, you'll find him exploring the great outdoors—camping, canoeing, and backpacking through Iowa's scenic trails with his family.
What Drives Chris
"Insurance shouldn't feel like a necessary evil. It should feel like a partnership with someone who actually has your back. That's what we've built here."
Aaron Plaskas
Co-Owner
Bringing Financial Clarity and Insurance Expertise Together
Aaron joined forces with Chris to build Inspire DSM after nearly two decades in financial services, including 18 years at Wells Fargo and founding his own financial practice with Financial Architects in 2016. Aaron brings deep expertise in insurance, investment planning, retirement design, and employee benefits—but more importantly, he brings a genuine commitment to educating and empowering clients.
Aaron believes a good advisor doesn't just forecast a future based on assumptions—they partner with clients to build one through intentional, well-informed decisions. He's passionate about making insurance and financial planning accessible, understandable, and actually useful for real people navigating real life.
Beyond Insurance
Aaron lives in Grimes, Iowa with his wife Beth, daughters McKenna and Delaney, and their beloved dogs Lola and Bella. Before entering financial services full-time, Aaron was an active musician in the Des Moines music scene—a creative background that still influences his approach to problem-solving and client relationships today.
What Drives Chris
"People deserve to understand what they're buying and why it matters. When clients have the tools, knowledge, and support they need, they make confident decisions that actually protect their future."
Credentials: Series 7 and Series 66 licenses | Licensed life and health insurance producer
Aaron Plaskas
Co-Owner
Why We Started Inspire DSM
Chris and Aaron didn't just want to sell insurance—they wanted to fix what's broken in the industry.
Too many people were:
Overpaying for coverage they didn't need
Underinsured in areas that mattered most
Confused by jargon and fine print
Ghosted by agents after signing
Stuck with one company's limited options
So they built the Inspire Secure Path™—a proven process that puts clients first, compares 15+ carriers, explains everything in plain English, and provides ongoing support for life.
Today, Inspire DSM serves families and businesses across Central Iowa with personal insurance, commercial coverage, and specialty solutions—all built on a foundation of education, transparency, and genuine partnership.
Our Shared Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Integrity First
We do what's right for you, even when it costs us a sale.
Transparency Always
No hidden agendas, no confusing terms, just honest guidance.
Education Focused
We explain the "why" so you can make informed decisions.
Client Advocacy
When you need us most, we fight for you.
Community Committed
We invest in Des Moines because this is our home too.
Who We Serve
Personal
Home, auto, renters, umbrella, and life insurance for Des Moines area residents
Business
Business owners policies, commercial property, workers' comp, commercial auto, and professional liability
Specialty
Custom coverage for artisan contractors, landlords, trucking companies, farmers, and real estate developers
What Our Clients Say
"They asked questions my previous agent never asked and found coverage gaps I didn't even know existed. When we had a claim after the derecho, they walked us through everything and fought for us with the carrier. Game changer."
— Mike T.
Des Moines (Business Owner)
"I've worked with other 'independent' agents who just sold whatever paid them the most. These guys actually showed me their math and talked me OUT of expensive coverage I didn't need. That's when I knew I could trust them."
— Jennifer K.
Ankeny (Rental Property Owner)
"Found me better coverage for $1,200 less per year. And they actually explained everything so I understood what I was buying."
— Sarah M.
West Des Moines
Ready to Work With Us?
Whether you're frustrated with your current insurance, shopping for new
coverage, or just want a second opinion, we're here to help—no pressure,
no games, just honest advice from people who care.
Independent Insurance Agency representing 15+ A-rated carriers to provide you with more choices, competitive pricing, and coverage built for your unique situation.
Insurance
Company
Contact Us
510 E Locust St, Ste 200 Des Moines, IA 50309
515-762-6330
Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm
Inspire DSM | Copyright © 2026. All Rights Reserved.
Inspire DSM (P&C) | Copyright © 2026. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions