2016 40 Under 40 Honoree: Tyler Moles, 32

Whether promoting country music or the Ozarks Beerfest, Tyler Moles knows how to take the lead and show a profit. He also knows it takes more than money to measure success. Breaking the cycle of poverty and supporting the children affected by it is the focus of Moles’ career and community service. Through connecting people and building partnerships, he has lead the BBBS team in exceeding the agency’s revenue goals. As a mentor to a high school student, his influence as a positive role model has taken the teen from failing grades to plans to graduate and go to college.

What was your first job? I had a job helping to remodel rental properties when I was 15.

What is your theme song? Survivor’s Eye of the Tyler, err, I mean “Eye of the Tiger.”

When did you realize you had grown up? When 11 p.m. started sounding really late.

What was your professional “aha” moment? I used to be a professional salesperson. After closing several major deals in a row, I realized I wasn’t going to find happiness until my efforts were going toward something that created a benefit for humanity and the community.

What do you miss most about the 1990s? I miss alternative rock. I’m going to see Weezer this summer.

What are you doing to make the Ozarks better? By working to make sure children facing adversity have a positive adult mentor in their lives, I am helping to solve the generational poverty problem in the Ozarks.