By Nicole Grundmeier, Business Record staff writer
I’ve spent my adult life pursuing two passions – journalism and gymnastics. At least once, those worlds collided. In 2017, I watched as survivors of all ages accused USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar of sexual abuse. My daughter was enrolled in preschool gymnastics at the time, and I had coached gymnastics on and off since 2006. I’ve never felt that degree of rage.
I emailed several editors at the Washington Post with a pitch. As a journalist and coach, I wanted to tell parents exactly what they needed to look for in terms of a healthy coaching environment versus a toxic coaching environment – the type of culture that enabled Nassar to abuse generations of people. My story was published by the Washington Post on Jan. 30, 2018, and I was added to the Washington Post’s Talent Network.
I started writing for the Lily, the Washington Post’s magazine aimed at empowering women. One of my favorite stories was about the Iowa caucuses – how do you participate with children and babies in tow? (Iowa parents get it done!)
I’ve also worked at the Des Moines Register and the Sioux City Journal. Recently, I’ve taught journalism at Simpson College. I have a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Iowa State University and a master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University. I live with my husband, Lucas Grundmeier, and our daughter, Juliet, in Beaverdale.
I’m excited to be joining the Business Record as a reporter and as a copy editor. Writing for Fearless is a tremendous opportunity and an enormous responsibility. I want to do whatever I can to empower women and vulnerable Iowans. We need to hear their voices.
