Staff

Grant White became the Dealer Principal and part owner of Heartland CDJR in September 2018, bringing with him over 15 years of industry experience and an unstoppable drive to transform the car-buying experience. With a background in e-commerce sales and digital marketing, Grant doesn’t just follow trends—he sets them.

A longtime Kansas City resident, Grant lives in Parkville, Missouri with his wife and kids. Whether he’s cheering from the sidelines at his children’s extracurriculars or perfecting his swing on the golf course, he brings the same energy and commitment to his personal life that he does to the dealership.

Known for his relentless work ethic, sharp instincts, and movie-star charisma, Grant is the kind of leader who rolls up his sleeves, inspires his team, and builds genuine connections with everyone he meets. His mission? To make buying and selling vehicles simple, transparent, and enjoyable.

He’s not just the face of Heartland CDJR—he’s the heartbeat behind it. And he stands by the motto that defines the dealership: Nice People Buy From Nice People.

Tyler Yates, originally from Wellsville, Missouri, joined the Heartland CDJR team in 2025 as a Sales Manager. Calm, collected, and equipped with a perfectly timed dry sense of humor, Tyler brings a steady hand and a refreshingly relaxed vibe to the fast-paced world of car sales.

What drew Tyler to the automotive industry wasn’t just the love of cars—it was the opportunity to genuinely help people. He enjoys listening, learning about his customers, and guiding them through one of life’s bigger decisions: finding reliable transportation. From the first handshake to the final signature, Tyler is there every step of the way, minus the pushiness and sales fluff.

Outside the dealership, you’ll find him golfing (or at least pretending to), taking leisurely bike rides with his wife, or fostering dogs through KC Pet Project—a cause close to his heart.

Easy to talk to and impossible to rattle, Tyler is the kind of guy who makes buying a car feel like catching up with an old friend—just with better financing options.

Lynn Gronniger brings over 26 years of automotive finance experience to the Heartland CDJR team—and she’s just as passionate today as when she first started. Lynn began her career with Pontiac, Buick, and GMC, where she spent 15 successful years before taking on the role of Finance Director at Northtowne Volkswagen for another 11 years. Her deep industry knowledge, strong lender relationships, and commitment to helping customers of all credit backgrounds make her an invaluable asset to the team.

Lynn is known not just for getting deals done, but for doing it with heart, humor, and a whole lot of personality. She’s approachable, trustworthy, and always brings positive energy to the showroom.

Outside of work, Lynn is a proud animal lover and certified cat mom with a house full of feline friends. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active, and squeezing in a good workout. She originally earned her degree in court reporting—proof that she can handle fast-paced environments with style and grace.

At Heartland CDJR, Lynn is more than just the Finance Director—she’s the friendly face customers trust and a key part of what makes our dealership a great place to buy a car.

Dru Peregrine is the definition of driven. She’s been in the automotive industry since she was 18, kicking off her career at Heartland Chevrolet in Liberty, Missouri. A Kansas City Northland native and proud Kearney High School graduate, Dru went on to pursue a degree in Marketing from Northwest Missouri State University—then wasted no time jumping back into the fast-paced world of auto retail.

Dru began as the Marketing Director for Heartland Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, but her work ethic, attention to detail, and can-do attitude quickly launched her into multiple roles across the dealership. Today, she wears several hats with ease: managing the Business Development Center (where she hires, trains, and leads a team of internet sales pros), overseeing commercial and fleet sales through Stellantis programs, and serving as a Finance Manager who helps customers from all credit backgrounds secure approvals and protection for their vehicles.

What sets Dru apart? She’s sharp, strategic, and never backs down from a challenge. She’s known for finding creative solutions to tough problems, all while keeping the mood light with her outgoing personality and quick wit. Whether she’s helping a first-time buyer, a small business owner, or a teammate in training, Dru leads with hustle, heart, and humor.

Outside the office, she’s just as high-energy and people-focused, always building connections and spreading positivity. Simply put: Dru gets things done—and makes the ride fun along the way.

Jenny Mathes is proud to be a lifelong Kansas City local—Go Chiefs! She joined Heartland CDJR in February 2023 and quickly found her calling helping customers and making meaningful connections as the dealership’s Internet Manager.

After graduating from William Chrisman High School in 2005, Jenny became a young mom to three wonderful kids: James, Johnny, and Jamie. (Yes, every name in her household starts with a J—including her husband, Johnnie!) Though motherhood came early, it’s been the most rewarding part of her life.

Jenny’s first experience with Heartland came in 2020 when she bought her first Jeep—and fell in love with the brand and the Jeep community. #DuckDuckJeep

Known for her outgoing, bubbly personality and positive energy, Jenny brings warmth and fun to every customer interaction. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, crocheting, caring for her houseplants, and spending quality time with her family—whether it’s a dog park adventure, a vacation, or a competitive family game night.

Jenny lives by the Golden Rule and prides herself on treating everyone the way she’d want to be treated—with kindness, enthusiasm, and a little bit of fabulous.

Shelby McGuire is from Lawson, MO and joined the Heartland CDJR family in August 2024, bringing her upbeat energy, strong communication skills, and a heart for helping people.

After high school, Shelby embraced her most important role—motherhood. She’s a proud, full-time working mom to two amazing kids: her son, Hudson, and her daughter, Salem. Looking for a fresh challenge, Shelby decided to follow a path that runs deep in her family—automotive. With cars in her blood and a natural ability to connect with people, the dealership world just felt like home.

What Shelby loves most about Heartland? The people. Her team makes every day enjoyable, and she thrives in the supportive, fast-paced environment. Outside of work, you’ll find her soaking up quality time with her kids and creating lasting memories with her family.

Shelby is passionate, personable, and always ready to go the extra mile to make sure customers feel right at home.

Justin Morgan—known to just about everyone as “Red”—has been a trusted name in the automotive world for over a decade. With his entire career devoted to the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram brands, Red brings a deep knowledge of the product, a genuine love for what he does, and a work ethic that’s second to none.

Born and raised in Kearney, Missouri, Red is as local as they come and proud of it. These days, he calls Excelsior Springs home, where he lives with his wife of 25 years. Before stepping into the automotive industry, Red worked for the Kansas City Star—but it didn’t take long for him to find his calling in helping people find the right vehicle with honesty and heart.

Red is a good-hearted, hard-working “good ole boy” who treats customers like friends and coworkers like family. He’s the kind of guy who will go the extra mile without ever being asked—always showing up with a handshake, a story, and a big smile.

In his free time, you’ll find him off-roading in his Jeep Wrangler with his wife, enjoying the great outdoors, or cheering on his beloved Kansas City Chiefs.

With Red, what you see is what you get—authentic, loyal, and always ready to help.

Trey Hubbard may be originally from South Carolina, but he’s proudly called Kansas City home for several years now. After earning his bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Kansas in 2008 (Rock Chalk!), Trey took his quick wit, sharp mind, and gift for communication into the world of automotive—and hasn’t looked back since.

He got his start in 2013 at Northtowne Volkswagen, then joined Heartland Chevrolet where his talent didn’t go unnoticed. Trey quickly rose from the sales floor to the finance office, where he spent four years mastering the ins and outs of auto lending, customer protection, and making numbers make sense.

Now at Heartland CDJR, Trey brings a unique blend of detail-oriented precision and dry, often unexpected humor that keeps coworkers and customers alike on their toes. He’s a product specialist who makes the buying process easy—probably with a one-liner or two thrown in for good measure.

Outside the office, Trey is all about family and food. He loves spending time with loved ones and is known to whip up some seriously good meals (yes, he actually enjoys cooking). Whether he’s crafting a car deal or a new recipe, Trey brings focus, fun, and a whole lot of flavor to everything he does.

Rick Suppes is a proud Kansas native with more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry. Raised in the Sunflower State, Rick’s journey also took him to Kentucky, Illinois, and Colorado before he found his way back home. He now resides in Overland Park, Kansas, where his calm presence, deep industry knowledge, and thoughtful approach make him a trusted figure both at work and in his community.

Throughout his career, Rick has sold a wide range of vehicles from brands like Toyota, GM, and Mazda. His steady hand and genuine care for his customers have earned him a reputation as someone who doesn’t just sell cars—he builds relationships. Rick takes the time to listen, understand, and help people find the right fit, always with patience and professionalism.

Outside of work, Rick is a proud father to one daughter and a lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan. Whether he’s enjoying a game or spending quiet time with loved ones, he brings the same wisdom and warmth that define his approach to life.

Dependable, experienced, and kind-hearted—Rick is a cornerstone of the Heartland team and someone customers know they can count on.

Meet Dakota Simmons—born and raised in Platte City, Missouri, and proudly serving customers at Heartland since October 2024! After graduating high school, Dakota took on the ultimate challenge by joining the military, then went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in General Science from Austin Peay State University.

A lifelong gearhead, Dakota’s passion for cars and motorcycles runs deep. He brings energy, empathy, and a can-do attitude to the Heartland team. Whether he’s listening closely to a customer’s needs or helping them drive off in the vehicle of their dreams, Dakota is all about making the car-buying experience smooth and memorable.

When he’s not on the lot, you’ll find him spending quality time with family or lending a helping hand in the community. Friendly, driven, and always up for a good conversation, Dakota is here to help you hit the road in style.

Desiree Lee has been a vital part of the Heartland CDJR team since 2022. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Education, an Accounting minor, and a Coaching Certificate, Desiree brings a sharp mind, dependable work ethic, and a strong sense of responsibility to everything she does.

Known for her serious, accurate, and trustworthy nature, Desiree is someone you can count on to get the job done—and get it done right. She’s highly self-motivated and thrives in an environment where she can work independently, anticipate needs, and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Desiree appreciates the realness of Heartland’s family atmosphere. Like any close-knit group, there are ups and downs, but she values the unity and team spirit that ties everyone together.

Outside of work, Desiree is devoted to her family, who keep her busy and grounded. In her spare time, she enjoys crocheting thoughtful handmade gifts for special occasions and raising chickens—two hobbies that reflect her patience, precision, and care for the little things that matter most.

Say hello to Kristina Peoples! Originally from St. Louis, MO, Kristina joined our team in 2022 and has been the driving force behind our parts department ever since. With 15 years of experience in the automotive world—starting as a dealership receptionist right out of high school—Kristina knows her way around just about every bolt, bracket, and bumper.

Her superpowers? Problem-solving, precision, and an eye for detail that keeps our parts operation running like a well-oiled machine. A friend once told her she’d be perfect for the car business—and we’re glad she listened!

Kristina thrives in the fast-paced world of dealership life, especially when it comes to helping customers and being part of a team that truly works together. Outside of work, she’s a creative soul with a big heart. She loves spending time with her cats, crocheting cozy creations, and whipping up homemade crafts for friends and family. When the weather’s warm, you’ll find her in her giant veggie and rose garden, harvesting ingredients for her legendary home-cooked goodies.

She’s as passionate about people as she is about parts—and we’re lucky to have her on the Heartland team!

Garrett Owings, proudly from Lathrop, Missouri, has been a key member of the Heartland CDJR team since 2022. He jumped into the automotive world during his senior year of high school and quickly found his stride behind the parts counter. Reliable, easygoing, and always up for a laugh, Garrett brings a fun energy to the dealership and thrives in a team environment where everyone works together to get the job done.

Whether he’s helping track down the right part or jumping in to lend a hand, Garrett is someone his coworkers and customers can count on. His passion for all things mechanical is matched only by his love of disc golf—where he claims to be able to launch a frisbee 500 feet (and no one’s doubting him… yet).

Outside of work, Garrett enjoys fishing, gaming, and hitting the disc golf course any chance he gets. He’s the perfect mix of dependable and downright entertaining—making him a valued and well-loved part of the Heartland crew.

Gregg Shull, originally from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, joined the Heartland CDJR team in 2025, bringing with him nearly four decades of automotive industry experience. His journey began thanks to a neighbor who was a Service Manager at a GM dealership—someone who saw potential in Gregg and helped launch a lifelong career in automotive service.

With 38 years under his belt, Gregg has just about seen it all—but he approaches each day with the same enthusiasm and adaptability that’s carried him through the industry. He’s known for getting along with just about anyone, which makes him a natural fit for Heartland’s team-oriented, customer-first culture. Gregg values the way Heartland treats its employees, believing that a positive work environment leads to the best customer service experience.

A big sports fan and proud family man, Gregg enjoys weekends at the lake, catching a game, or simply relaxing with friends and loved ones. In his downtime, you’ll often find him with a good book in hand—always learning, always curious.

Reliable, easygoing, and full of experience, Gregg brings a steady hand and a winning attitude to the Heartland service department every single day.

Jen Raby, a Kansas City, Kansas native, has been part of the Heartland CDJR team since 2022, bringing with her over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry. Known for her tenacity, sharp instincts, and no-nonsense wisdom, Jen is a go-to resource in the dealership—someone who’s seen it all and knows how to get things done.

What drew Jen to the automotive world was the opportunity for growth and change. Over the years, she’s worn many hats and built lasting connections across the industry. In her current role as Warranty Administrator, she thrives on the variety—no two days are the same, and that’s exactly how she likes it.

Outside of work, Jen is all about family. She’s a proud girl mom to two adult daughters and a beaming grandma to two wonderful granddaughters. She’s happily married and brings the same joy and dedication to her home life as she does to her work.

In her free time, you’ll find Jen on a spontaneous road trip, getting creative with crafts and sewing projects, or sharing laughs with loved ones. She’s fun, fiercely loyal, and full of knowledge—and Heartland is better with her on the team.

Jared West, a proud native of Liberty, Missouri, joined Heartland CDJR as a Service Advisor in 2023. Before stepping into his current role, Jared spent several years in the car business as a Sales Associate—until duty called and he served eight honorable years in the United States Army as an Active Duty Military Police Officer. After his military service, Jared returned to the industry he knows and loves, but this time with a new perspective and a mission to serve customers in a different way.

Jared thrives in the fast-paced, ever-changing world of automotive service. He’s dedicated, hardworking, and always looking for ways to improve—not just for himself, but for the people he serves. His passion for fairness, respect, and doing the right thing shows in every customer interaction. To him, Heartland is more than a dealership—it’s a place where every customer, whether new or returning, is treated like family.

Outside of work, Jared is an avid outdoorsman who loves hunting, fishing, and photographing the beauty of the world around him. He’s also a devoted husband and proud “boy dad” to three energetic sons. Whether he’s coaching from the sidelines, heading out on a family road trip, or watching football and baseball with his crew, Jared brings his full heart to everything he does.

Dave Robidoux, originally from Gallatin, Missouri, joined the Heartland CDJR team in 2023 as a Service Advisor. With a degree in hand, Dave spent 17 years with the Department of Homeland Security before following his lifelong interest in vehicles into the automotive world.

Known for his steady presence and thoughtful approach, Dave enjoys the service side of the industry because it gives him the chance to help people every day. He’s detail-oriented, patient, and genuinely cares about doing right by his customers—making sure they feel heard, respected, and well taken care of.

Outside the dealership, Dave finds peace in fishing, strumming his guitar, and spending time with his greatest joy: his wife Erin and their five kids—Walker, Shayne, Emery, Dakota, and Weslie. Whether at home or at work, Dave leads with heart and purpose, always aiming to leave things better than he found them.

Jeff Wathen, originally from Riverside, Missouri, brings over 25 years of expertise and heart to the Heartland CDJR team. An ASE Master Technician, Jeff has built a respected career with previous roles at Van Chevrolet and Westfall O’Dell—where he earned a reputation for his leadership, technical skill, and genuine care for others.

Now living in Vibbard, Missouri, Jeff shares life with his wife of over 30 years. Whether he’s mentoring younger technicians or lending a hand to a teammate, Jeff leads by example—steady, dependable, and always willing to go the extra mile. His passion for fixing things is matched only by his passion for helping people, making him not just a great technician, but a true cornerstone of the service department.

Outside the shop, Jeff enjoys quiet evenings on the veranda with his family, cheering on all kinds of racing, watching classic movies, and turning wrenches on his favorite muscle cars. He brings a deep knowledge of the craft and a big heart to every project—at work and at home.

Reliable, experienced, and full of heart—Jeff is more than just a technician; he’s a leader and a trusted friend to everyone at Heartland.

Kane Crouse, a proud Lawson, Missouri native, has been turning wrenches and solving problems at Heartland CDJR since 2022. He got his start here during his senior year of high school and hasn’t looked back since. Before joining the team, Kane gained experience working for a local tree service and a lube shop—hands-on jobs that built his work ethic and love for getting things done right.

Kane sharpened his skills through the Automotive Technician program at the Excelsior Springs Area Career Center, where he discovered a real passion for diagnosing and fixing broken vehicles. He’s got a natural mechanical mind and an eagerness to keep learning—especially as the automotive world shifts toward electric vehicles and cutting-edge tech. For Kane, this isn’t just a job—it’s a lifelong craft that keeps getting more exciting.

Always ready for a challenge, Kane brings a curious mindset and a “let’s figure it out” attitude to every repair. Outside the shop, you’ll catch him soaking up speed and adrenaline—whether it’s on his motorcycle or watching NASCAR. He’s got a deep appreciation for anything fast, loud, and built to perform.

Driven, humble, and constantly leveling up—Kane’s the kind of technician you want on your team (and under your hood).

Gerald Messer, born and raised in Moberly, Missouri, has been a cornerstone of the Heartland CDJR service team since 2020. With training in industrial, agricultural, and automotive technology, Gerald brings a wide range of expertise to the shop. He’s been in the industry since 2005 and has always had a knack for figuring out how things work—and even more satisfaction in fixing what’s broken.

Known for his leadership, humor, and drive to stay busy, Gerald is the kind of guy who tackles every challenge head-on and still manages to crack a joke while doing it. He thrives on the variety of vehicles that come through the shop, and no two days are ever the same—just the way he likes it.

Outside of work, Gerald lives for the outdoors, riding his motorcycle, and chasing new adventures. (If the weather stayed sunny and 60, he’d probably never stop riding.) But above all else, his heart belongs to his family. Gerald’s blended crew is his world and keeps life exciting: his children—Renee, Damion, Hope, and Autumn Messer—and the love of his life, Jennifer Patton, along with her daughters, Macy and Marley Morrow.

Hardworking, hands-on, and always ready with a one-liner, Gerald brings skill and spirit to everything he does—on and off the clock.

Eric Jones, originally from Vibbard, Missouri, has been a technician at Heartland CDJR since 2022. After high school, he sharpened his skills at NTI and jumped headfirst into the automotive industry—a natural fit for someone with both a sharp mind and a lifelong love of racing.

Eric’s happy-go-lucky attitude brings a positive vibe to the service department, but don’t let the humor fool you—he’s meticulous, detail-oriented, and incredibly knowledgeable. Working on a wide variety of used vehicles has proven to be the perfect niche for his skill set, blending challenge, variety, and just the right amount of problem-solving to keep him in his element.

Outside the shop, Eric’s passions include motorcycles, Formula 1 racing, building Legos, and—yes—enjoying a good glass of wine. He’s equal parts fun and focused, always bringing curiosity and creativity to everything he does.

If you ask around the shop, you’ll hear he’s the guy who can make you laugh and fix your car right the first time. Or, as he likes to say: “Call me Marge Simpson, ’cause I love you, Homie.”

Wyatt Hampton, a proud native of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, has been part of the Heartland CDJR team since 2022, bringing nearly a decade of hands-on experience to the service bay. From a young age, Wyatt was the kid taking apart bikes, lawnmowers, and anything with an engine—just to see how it worked. That curiosity turned into a full-blown career after high school, and he’s been chasing horsepower ever since.

Known for his persistence, work ethic, and love of all things fast, Wyatt is a technician who thrives on the challenge of diagnosing problems and making cars roar back to life. He’s passionate about what he does and takes pride in doing it right the first time.

Outside the shop, you’ll find Wyatt either under the hood of his own racecar or spending time with the two people who mean the world to him—his wife and daughter. Whether he’s turning wrenches or enjoying a quiet moment with family, Wyatt brings full-throttle dedication to everything he does.

He’s not just in it for the vroom—he’s in it for the people who keep him grounded and motivated every single day.

Aaron Crazybear, originally from Orrick, Missouri, has been part of the Heartland CDJR team since 2023. Before stepping into the world of automotive service, Aaron worked as a contractor for the railroad and spent a few years with a tree service crew—hands-on jobs that matched his easygoing yet hardworking personality.

His love for cars started young, thanks to time spent in the garage with his dad. That early interest eventually turned into a career he genuinely enjoys. Aaron values the team environment at Heartland and appreciates working alongside good people who all pitch in to get the job done right.

Known for his laid-back vibe and solid communication skills, Aaron works well with just about anyone. He’s the kind of teammate who keeps things running smoothly and brings a positive energy to the shop.

When he’s off the clock, you’ll likely find Aaron out on the golf course or wrenching on one of his own vehicles. He enjoys the process of making something better—whether it’s a golf swing or a car in the garage.

Mason Miller, a Kansas City native, joined the Heartland CDJR team in 2025 as a technician—fresh out of high school and ready to dive into the world he’s always loved: working on cars. Quiet, focused, and mechanically minded, Mason has been tinkering with anything with wheels for as long as he can remember. Whether it was helping in the garage or modifying his beloved mini bike, he’s always had a passion for figuring out how things work and making them run better.

Mason may not be the loudest in the room, but his work speaks for itself. He brings a calm, steady presence to the service bay and a genuine appreciation for the team atmosphere at Heartland, where everyone is supportive and welcoming.

Outside of work, you’ll likely find Mason back in the garage fine-tuning his mini bike or learning something new about engines. He’s a hands-on learner with a love for building, fixing, and improving—and he’s just getting started.

Heather Jennings, originally from Excelsior Springs, Missouri, has been capturing the heart of Heartland CDJR through her lens since 2019. With a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary English Education from the University of Missouri, Heather’s career path has been anything but ordinary—ranging from magazine ad coordinator to wardrobe manager at a casino. When she stumbled across a “help wanted” ad for an automotive photographer, her instinct said, “I could do that.” And she was right.

Heather brings a calm, focused presence to the dealership, quietly turning every vehicle into its best self through her photography. She enjoys the rhythm and reliability of her work—balancing behind-the-scenes creativity with travel between locations to keep things fresh. Her attention to detail and love for staying busy make her a key part of the Heartland team.

Outside of work, Heather is all about family, nature, and a little slice of peaceful living. She’s a proud boy mom of two and finds joy in the simple things: camping trips, hiking adventures, and time spent on the family’s little piece of land. Thoughtful and grounded, Heather sees the beauty in the everyday—and brings that perspective to everything she does.