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Joshua I. Smith is a prime example of one who has achieved a certain level of expertise and wishes to pass that knowledge on to others. As chairman and managing partner of The Coaching Group, his personal goals mesh perfectly with a company whose goal is to empower its clients. “[The Coaching Group] is a company that coaches CEOs [in] their growth strategies, particularly as they plan to exit into the market or through an IPO.” explains Smith. “[We] teach them how to grow the business so that that’s achievable, as opposed to being a challenge.”

“I’ve been a CEO for many years,” continues Smith. “I’m also on a number of corporate boards, so I get the experience [ranging] from the very top [down] to the entrepreneurial segment — and everything in between.” The “coaching” approach works in tandem with executive management, investors, shareholders and stakeholders to assure effective decision-making and that partners have the ability to guide large corporations who need and seek small and minority firms as business partners.

Recently honored by Rainbow/PUSH, Smith notes that although he and PUSH founder Rev. Jesse Jackson may have differing political views, there is a mutual respect and admiration between them. “I have been an advocate for minority business and diversity,” shares Smith. “I’ve served as chairman of the U.S. Commission of Minority Business Development under Pres. George H.W. Bush, so I’ve been out there along with Jesse. I’m a Republican, and [we’ve had] debates, but I just admire him and [am] particularly proud of the honor.” -todd williams

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