Meet Josh Planos, vice president of communications and public relations at the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Tell us a little about your business. – The BBB has been serving its local communities since 1936. With nearly 10,000 Accredited Businesses, we are one of the largest BBBs in North America. The overall mission of BBB is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust.
How did you get started in the business? – I was hired by the BBB in June 2021 after working for KETV NewsWatch 7, the University of Nebraska Foundation, and Grand Island Public Schools.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Organizing the 25th anniversary of the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics luncheon. While this was certainly challenging, I consider executing this significant event to also be my greatest achievement professionally.
Tell us a little about your family. – I come from a passionate family that allowed me to explore my interests at every turn. My older sister Jessica is loving, funny, and brilliant; she could truly excel at anything. My mother works for the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is a lifelong learner. My father is a career retailer and lifelong optimist.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – When I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder at the age of 12.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Go on long walks with my wife and our dog Roxanne.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I’ve lived on both U.S. coasts but firmly consider myself a Nebraskan.
Who inspires you? – My wife, Brittany Planos.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – The beauty is in the journey.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Disciplined.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Flight.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – The useless sports trivia I’ve somehow managed to accumulate over the years.
Which talent would you most like to have? – Photographic memory.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Basketball, though my current lack of talent and height leaves a lot to be desired.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – The BBB, of course!
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Bad Blood by John Carreyrou.
What is your favorite movie? – Blues Brothers.
What is your favorite TV show? – Love It or List It.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Jaipur.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Michael Jordan.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (800) 649-6814; ext. 8526; jplanos@bbbinc.org; www.bbb.org.