Tell us a little about your business in your own words. – I describe Private Banking as “banking the way it used to be.” I enjoy building genuine relationships with clients—many know as much about me and my family as I do about theirs. Trust and comfort are key, so I take time to understand their goals while ensuring they know who they’re working with. We serve high-net-worth individuals by looking holistically at their finances and providing tailored solutions. Whether it’s creating a detailed financial plan, financing a new home or business, or simply assisting with an account, we’re here to help at Union Bank & Trust. (UBT.com)

How did you get started in the business? – I grew up in a small town in Southeastern Iowa with dreams of becoming the next Tom Brokaw. After an internship at an NBC station, I realized national TV wasn’t the right fit and switched my focus to Finance and Business Management, with a minor in Communications. Banking wasn’t on my radar then, but it’s proven to be the perfect career path—and an incredible journey.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Preparing for Y2K, The Great Recession, and COVID are the three big ones that immediately come to mind. All were challenging in their own way, with lots of lessons learned from each.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I take pride in knowing that I’ve developed great friendships with clients and colleagues and have been lucky enough to help hundreds of individuals and their families achieve their goals, spanning generations.

Tell us a little about your family. – I became a first-time grandpa in May, welcoming Hudson. My wife, Kim, and I will celebrate 30 years of marriage next June, and we’re proud parents of three, two daughters in the medical field and a son finishing his Computer Science degree at UNL. We feel lucky to have everyone close by in Omaha and Lincoln.

What are your favorite things to do on a day off? – Spending time with family, being outdoors, watching any (and all) athletic events, and of course getting things checked off my personal to-do list.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – Both of my parents grew up on farms. They wanted to ensure I understood what hard work was, so I was spent a fair amount of time getting my hands dirty in the fields. For a few years, this future banker was a proud member of 4-H (Saddle Club). Then I learned guitar and joined a band.

Who inspires you? – Family. My grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, sister, in-laws, wife, and children. They all inspire me in different ways.

What are your favorite quote(s) or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” “Success is 90% hard work and 10% luck, but don’t underestimate that 10%.” And, “The only thing that overcomes hard luck is hard work.”

What is your favorite movie? – Top three in no particular order: Fiddler on the Roof, Princess Bride, and On Golden Pond. Great actors and storylines.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached at eric.argo@ubt.com or (402) 827-6958. You can also learn more about UBT and our services at (UBT.com).