River City Six – Diane Gumaer
Meet Diane Gumaer, writer at Strictly Business.
Tell us a little about your business.
Strictly Business was launched in Lincoln 27 years ago and moved into the Omaha market over 13 years ago. I’m proud to be a part of the best content-marketing magazines around! Everything we do is for our clients—amazing local businesses and organizations.
How did you get started in the business?
I used to love watching my dad run the presses at the Denver Post, so I’ve always had ink in my blood. I’ve been a professional writer for 35 years now.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Making the decision to stop climbing the ladder and get back to what I love to do.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
It’s underway now, but I’m co-writing a book that comes out in January.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have two adult “kids”, Nate and Bailey, of whom I couldn’t be prouder. With my new husband Jonathan, we have a blended family with six successful adult sons and daughters and eight perfect grandchildren.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
My sister Christine’s death from breast cancer at 45 years old. When she knew how sick she was, she chose her mantra—the song “Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw—and lived by it. Every time I hear that, I feel like she’s reminding me to stop sweating the small stuff.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Spend time with my fabulous husband, no matter what we do. We love to cook, golf (I’m awful but love it), spend time with family, and cheer on the Huskers.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I used to be an orchestral viola player.
Who inspires you?
Maya Angelou. Her heart and words were always positive and focused on fixing injustices.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Hope is putting faith to work when doubting would be easier.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Kind. A simple word with far-reaching, contagious effects.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Stronger (What doesn’t kill you makes you)” by Kelly Clarkson.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Teleporting.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I’m fairly skilled at word games and love to compete online.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To play golf well.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Psychiatry.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Rejuvenating Women in Omaha and I’ve Got a Name in Lincoln because sex-trafficking is rampant in Nebraska and they make a difference every day.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
The Grapes of Wrath. It reminds me of some of the struggles Americans went through before us. We are blessed.
What is your favorite movie?
The Sound of Music.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 466-3330; office@strictlybusinessomaha.com; strictlybusinessomaha.com.