Thom Kastrup is the Senior Vice President at The Better Business Bureau of the Midwest Plains. (bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-of-midwest-plains)

Tell us a little about your business. – The Better Business Bureau of the Midwest Plains is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing trust in the marketplace. For consumers, we are a trusted resource for researching businesses, filing complaints, spotting scams and reading verified reviews of Accredited Businesses — helping consumers make confident, informed decisions. For businesses, BBB Accreditation builds credibility and sets Accredited Businesses apart in a competitive market.

How did you get started in the business? – Someone I previously worked with mentioned an opening they thought I might be interested in. I was immediately intrigued — the organization’s mission resonated with me and aligned perfectly with my passion for helping small businesses thrive while also protecting and empowering consumers.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – During the financial crisis of 2008, I oversaw advertising at the Omaha World-Herald. It was a challenging time — businesses were struggling as consumer spending sharply declined, and many local companies had limited access to funding through traditional sources. However painful that period was, it taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of being a true partner to businesses — making decisions that support long-term relationships and sustainability, rather than focusing solely on short-term gains.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I truly value the relationships I’ve maintained with coworkers from the various roles and locations I’ve been fortunate to work in throughout my career.

Tell us a little about your family. – I’ve been married to my wife, Stephanie, for 34 years. She’s a dedicated principal in Bellevue. Our oldest daughter, Katherine, lives in Denver with her husband, Charles, and works as a therapist supporting high school students. Our youngest daughter, Elizabeth, lives in Omaha and is currently finishing her degree. We also share our home with two cats, Louis and Ruby, who keep things entertaining.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Choosing to attend the University of Nebraska, accepting my first job at The Kansas City Star, and — most importantly — the day I met my wife, Stephanie.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – In my free time, I enjoy reading, staying lightly engaged with work and appreciating a great meal.
Who inspires you? – I admire anyone who is willing to make personal sacrifices for causes they’re passionate about. Especially in these divisive times, it takes courage and conviction to stand up for what you believe in and work toward positive change — and there are many doing just that.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.” -Rosalynn Carter

If you had a theme song, what would it be? – High Hopes by Bruce Springsteen.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? – The ability to help all people to see, with clarity and completeness, the good they’re truly capable of and to recognize their full potential to make a meaningful impact.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can email me at any time at tkastrup@bbbinc.org.