Tell us a little about your business. – Flood Communications (floodcomm.com) is a Nebraska-based media company with radio, television, digital, Spanish-language media, and marketing services across the state. Our goal is simple: help communities stay informed and help businesses grow. We serve local communities in both English and Spanish, and we take great pride in being deeply connected to Nebraska.
How did you get started in the business? – I started in radio sales after college, not fully understanding what I was getting into. I quickly fell in love with the creativity, relationships and energy of the media business. Early on, I learned that showing up, listening and working hard could open a lot of doors.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Helping grow Flood Communications into one of the largest and most diverse media companies in Nebraska is my most important professional achievement. I’m proud that we’ve built something that reaches communities across the state, supports local businesses, and creates opportunities for talented people.
Tell us a little about your family. – My incredible wife, Teresa, and I have two wonderful teenage children, Chloe and Max, along with our two dogs, Gilbert and Mitchell. My family is the center of my life and very important to me.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – The biggest turning point in my life was fatherhood. It changed everything in the best possible way.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – On a day off, I like to travel, play pickleball, or relax on my front porch.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – Something interesting about me is I’ve been playing drums for more than 30 years, and I still play a couple times a week.
Who inspires you? – Teresa, my wife, and my kids are my biggest inspiration. Also my friends inspire me daily. Luckily, I’m surrounded by some truly amazing friendships, and they inspire me in every way.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Trust, but verify.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – I think I’d choose to be remembered as loyal.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – The nonprofit Canopy South is very important to me. Its work in South Omaha is focused on community development, education, housing, and long-term neighborhood strength. I care deeply about projects that create real opportunity and lasting impact for our community members.
What is your favorite TV show? – My favorite show has got to be Succession.
What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? – My favorite restaurant is my dinner table! But locally, it’s Bronco’s and Bagel Bin.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Readers can contact me at aruback@floodcomm.com.