Terri Rickard is the Founder and President of Southwestern Travel. She began her career with the Southwestern Family of Companies in 2012 as the Executive Assistant to the CEO. In her role as Executive Assistant, she took on a major project to create an internally managed travel program for 16 operating divisions, managing over $5 million in annual travel spending.

In just a few years of collecting company travel data, intense industry research, and perfecting the vendor contract negotiation process, she achieved savings of over $500,000. In 2016, armed with a detailed business plan and the support of the board of directors, Terri launched Southwestern Travel.

Today as President, she focuses on the vision of the company, execution of the vision, and recruiting A+ people. She is also a hands-on team player actively saving clients money, training, negotiating, and ensuring all best practices are adhered to for every event or adventure planned.

Terri graduated from Belmont University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science. Her passion for history quickly transitioned to a passion for travel as she desired to visit the places she studied over the years.

When not working, you can find Terri spending time with her husband Jared and their four children who range in age from three to twelve years old. Terri and her family enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and canoeing. They enjoy attending local community events and going to see the Nashville Predators play. And, yes, you guessed it… Terri loves to travel!

Her favorite travel destination is the Amalfi Coast. She said, “It is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. As you drive the coast it is absolutely breathtaking, and it is a MUST to spend a day in the picturesque little town of Positano for beach time, shopping, and gelato.”

Her favorite travel quote is “Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.” – Anonymous

Show Highlights:

What’s the next right thing for that situation or problem? -Terri RickardThe facts will always present a solution. -Terri RickardI don’t work a job that’s 9-5. I do what it takes to get the job done. -Terri RickardOne of our principles is we never walk past a problem; we hit it head-on. -Terri RickardThe failure to face an issue squarely never solves anything. It only buys time. – Joe BattenEvery day I get up, I have the opportunity to serve and impact someone. -Terri RickardIt’s not about me; it’s about the mission. -Terri RickardIf we can get into motion, we can get out of negative emotion. -Unknown

Terri’s closing thoughts: I would encourage them to do some soul searching and take some time alone. Really think about and pray about the things that are important to you. Be grateful in those moments.

The Action Catalyst is a weekly podcast hosted by Dan Moore, President of Southwestern Advantage, the oldest direct-sales company in America, and Partner with Southwestern Consulting. With more than 45 years in sales leadership and marketing management, Dan has a wealth of knowledge to share on how to make better use of time to achieve life, sales, and other business goals. Each week, he interviews some of the nation’s top thought leaders and experts, sharing meaningful tips and advice. Subscribe on iTunes and please leave a rating and review!