River City Six – Zach Baedke
Meet Zach Baedke, the senior banker and customer service manager at Cornhusker Bank (www.cornhuskerbank.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
Cornhusker Bank is a full-service community bank serving the Greater Omaha and Lincoln markets since 1903. The local ownership and strategic decision making sets us apart from other banks. I helped open Cornhusker Bank’s first full-service location in Omaha this year. We value trusted relationships and we will always be committed to your success!
How did you get started in the business?
I received a degree in marketing and public relations, but my passion has always been in the people business. I started as a teller 10 years ago and I have progressed from there.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I’m proud to be the bank manager of the first Cornhusker Bank location in Omaha. There is so much potential, and I’m excited for the future! It’s an honor to represent such an incredible company in Omaha.
Tell us a little about your family.
I met my incredible wife Emilie 13 years ago when we both ran cross country and track together in college…we have put in a lot of miles together! Our energetic six-year-old son Cayden is so excited to start Kindergarten this year and keeps us very busy. We also have a happy-go-lucky, six-year-old golden retriever named Archer.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I cherish quiet time at home and having time to be creative. I enjoy writing music, drawing, and thinking about the future. I also like spending time outside hiking, biking, or running (even in winter).
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I was a Zamboni driver in high school and college. I have always enjoyed ice skating and hockey, but my mom wouldn’t let me play because she was worried about me losing teeth. The next best thing: Zamboni driver.
Who inspires you?
I am the youngest of four and my siblings have been role models since I was a kid. They are all amazing in their own way and inspire me to be a better father, a better friend, and a better person.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My dad has given me plenty of great advice but one thing that stuck with me was: “Never wait for someone to tell you what to do, take ownership and do it.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Heartening.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
Playing guitar and writing songs.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Once A Runner by John L Parker Jr. When I’m reading to my son, it’s got to be If You Give a Moose a Muffin.
What is your favorite TV show?
I enjoy laughing! Parks and Recreation, The Office, Archer, Big Bang Theory…too many to name just one.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Omaha Tap House or Hiro 88. It depends on what my wife is hungry for.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
George Harrison.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 671-0212; Zach.Baedke@CornhuskerBank.com; www.cornhuskerbank.com.