Josh Terrell
CEO, 3E Partners
Age: 38
Education: Bachelor of Arts in health, wellness and recreation and Master of Business Administration, University of Dubuque
Wife: Tina Terrell
Children: Jenesis Terrell (7), Shiloh Terrell (5), JT Terrell Jr. (3), and Olive Terrell (1)
__________________________
Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.
Founder and president of Black Excellence of Iowa.
CEO and founder of two local businesses.
Board member and president of Empigo Academy.
Local and civic involvement — church, West Des Moines Chamber (former board member), various committees.
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?
As a high school and college wrestler, I was blessed to have coaches who demonstrated servant leadership, excellence, greatness and love. As I developed and matured, my vision to change the world around me continued to grow. I now get an opportunity to do that every day!
What’s one decision you made early in your career that had an outsized impact?
To bet on myself. In commission sales and self-employment there are no guarantees. There are only standards to manage and execute. Once I transferred the disciplines and efforts from wrestling to career, the only limits that existed were the ones I put on myself.
What are your aspirations for the future?
In recent studies, you’ll find that over 200,000 teachers per year are exiting school districts (only one-third being due to retirement), as well as the lack of funding that exists to perpetuate quality education. At 3E Partners, our vision is to provide financial relief for 150 community school districts. Ask me how!
What are you still working on to improve as a leader?
The ability to dial in the perfect integration of consistent execution and emotional intelligence. This will allow me to identify and serve the people I am supposed to, and help them maximize their potential with purpose.
What’s one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
“How you do anything is how you do everything.” We get one life to live, and you cannot be two different persons. How you show up for yourself, family and community is how you show up for your company, clients and network. Determine who you are becoming and commit.
What’s one regular habit that’s made you successful?
Humility. When I realized I didn’t know it all, I got out of my way. I make it a point to learn from resources, individuals, companies and practices. That also includes active reading. Be committed to asking the next best question to get the best answer.
What’s one outdated way of thinking that you’d like to challenge?
Work-life balance. The act of balance in one’s life doesn't exist. Life demands we have heavy attention toward something/someone in any given season (education, career, children, service, retirement, etc.). We should strive for work-life integration. In doing so, we’re more appreciative of seasons, lessons and inviting ourselves and family into it.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I’m a pianist/keyboardist, and music is one of my passions.
Hobbies: Golf, leisure traveler and silly time with family.
What is one word that best describes you?
Coach.
What’s one food you think people must try in the Des Moines area?
Buffalo wings!
What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?
My 1-year-old started dancing and walking (ask me for a video to view)!
What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?
Daddy-daughter dances.
What is your go-to snack?
Jalapeño kettle chips.