Breathe Out

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Mentorship is about giving to others - and you can't give away what you don't have. Press play and listen to Breathe Out ☁️ Highpoint Insurance Group's wonder woman and CEO Heather Smyrl is talking about all things leadership, culture, wellness, and safety to elevate the success of your business and enhance your personal wellbeing!

Heather Smyrl


    • Apr 10, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 36m AVG DURATION
    • 59 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Breathe Out podcast is truly captivating and an absolute delight to listen to. As someone who regularly indulges in leadership casts, I can confidently say that this podcast stands out from the rest. Hosted by the charismatic Heather, it offers a refreshing and relevant perspective on leadership and business that is perfectly suited to my own work in employee benefits consulting.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is Heather herself. She is not only knowledgeable and informative, but also incredibly down to earth and funny. Her passion for what she does shines through in every episode, making her delivery of content engaging and relatable. It's clear that she genuinely cares about her listeners and wants to provide them with valuable insights and advice.

    Furthermore, the topics covered on The Breathe Out podcast are highly relevant to both work life and everyday life. Whether it's discussing effective leadership strategies or providing tips for personal growth, each episode offers practical advice that listeners can apply to their own lives. This combination of relevance and entertainment makes for an incredibly compelling listening experience.

    As for any potential downsides, it's difficult to find any major flaws with this podcast. However, one minor criticism could be that some episodes may not resonate with all listeners equally. Since the topics covered are specific to leadership and business, those who are not in these fields may not find every episode as applicable or interesting as others. However, this is a minor point considering the overall quality of the podcast.

    In conclusion, The Breathe Out podcast is an exceptional show that deserves all the praise it receives. Heather's fearless and inspirational approach to leadership sets this podcast apart from others in its genre. With its relevant content, engaging host, and valuable insights, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow as a leader or simply enjoy a great storytelling experience. I am eagerly looking forward to future episodes and can't recommend it highly enough!



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    Latest episodes from Breathe Out

    E58: Reaching Out with Elijah Rising

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 39:13


    This episode of Breathe Out contains some topics that may be sensitive for some listeners, and parental supervision of young listeners is advised. Elijah Rising was founded in 2012 as a prayer circle that wanted to end human trafficking in the Greater Houston Area. Today, their organization has grown significantly and works to end sex trafficking through prayer, awareness, intervention, and restoration. We are joined in this episode by Elijah Rising's Director of Marketing, David Gamboa. He shares how he got involved with their mission and how God called him to pursue this full-time. He shares stories of men & women whose lives have been saved by Christ and restored through the services Elijah Rising provides, such as housing, recovery services, reunification with family, and so much more. Elijah in The Bible used his fiery spirit to speak out and act upon what it right and what is wrong. We are so honored to have Elijah Rising as one of our philanthropic partners to be a part of impactful change. Our Tee Up Together for Charity event will benefit their organization, and 100% of the proceeds made at this event will go toward their mission. To learn more about Elijah Rising, get involved, or make a direct donation, visit https://elijahrising.org/ today! To sign up for our Tee Up Together event, click HERE to register! 5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord 6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers Malachi 4:5-6

    E57: Insurance Sucks! (Personal Lines Edition)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2023 11:40


    We won't sugar coat it. Insurance is EXPENSIVE right now! Whether you blame it on the economy, recurring natural disasters, housing market, labor shortage, or anything else - there's just no way around it. We know your personal lines policies - meaning your home insurance, auto insurance, boat or luxury valuable coverages - are essential to protecting your family. Our approach is simple: we are going to be transparent with our clients. We are committed to communicating early, often, and along the way of their renewal timeline. We want to find every custom-tailored solution we can to lower your insurance costs. But the reality is, we feel the pain too! And because of this, it's our responsibility to be honest and direct with our successful clients. This is the first episode of a series about just how much Insurance SUCKS! ⁠Follow Heather Smyrl on LinkedIn⁠⁠ Follow Highpoint Insurance Group today! ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠  |  ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠  |  ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠

    E56 - The Go-Getter Approach feat. Carter Whitaker

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2023 47:41


    Breathe Out is all about taking in and learning information then sharing that knowledge with others. In this episode, Heather is joined by our Highpoint employee Carter Whitaker. He explains how he got interested in insurance after college and also tells us about his internship abroad in London - the insurance capitol of the world! Keeping your ambition hungry is key to great success. Listen to learn how you can use social media to your advantage, fuel your motivation by doing what you love, and stay driven toward big goals. ⁠Follow Heather Smyrl on LinkedIn⁠⁠ Follow Highpoint Insurance Group today! ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠  |  ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠  |  ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠ “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might, for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.” Proverbs 24 3-6

    E55 - Highpoint Hearts with Brandon Smyrl

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2023 34:12


    Highpoint's greater purpose is to give more than we take, having a servant's heart for our clients, coworkers, and community. In this episode, owners Brandon & Heather Smyrl talk about how that greater purpose statement was established, and what it means to them. Because giving back to others is so important to our agency, Highpoint Hearts was founded as an impact group to intentionally serve and hold events to support those in need. We want to inspire other business leaders to inspire purpose in their employees, bring meaningful impact to your goals, and also boost morale and employee engagement within the workplace. Serving others is doing a service for your own heart too. ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Matthew 25:23 Visit our Highpoint Hearts page to learn more about our impact group & greater purpose! Click here to learn more about our Top Golf Event on May 11, 2023! To learn more about our Non-Profit Partners, Click below: Jane Around the World Living Water International The Bridge Over Troubled Waters Elijah Rising Follow Heather Smyrl on LinkedIn⁠ Follow Highpoint Insurance Group today! ⁠Facebook⁠  |  ⁠Instagram⁠  |  ⁠LinkedIn⁠

    E54 - Healthy Things Grow

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2023 16:33


    Spring is here, and our people are ready to GROW. There is a common fear that if your business isn't getting bigger, it's not getting better. At Highpoint, we believe the opposite. If we get better at everything we do, and if our team members are thriving in their environment, our growth and success will be great! How do you make sure your organization and employees are healthy? How do you get your hands dirty in your own garden to control the weeds? In this episode, Heather tells the story of how she approached each department to ensure we are excellent in every way. Heather became inspired about this concept at the Grow Leaders Conference at Church of the Highlands and eventually, it became our intention for 2023. To be intentional and steady, to value our rest as much as our efforts, and to take care of our health - physically, spiritually, mentally, and professionally. The law of Sabbath calls us to rest - as God rested on the Seventh day. It's just as important to labor as it is to cease, to enjoy fellowship with other believers, to reflect on our relationship with God and rest our bodies to prepare for new growth. Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,'  but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.'  If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.” The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” - Exodus 33:12-14 Follow Heather Smyrl on LinkedIn⁠ Follow Highpoint Insurance Group today! ⁠Facebook⁠  |  ⁠Instagram⁠  |  ⁠LinkedIn⁠

    E53 - Lead With Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2023 25:04


    Every episode of Breathe Out ends with the phrase, “lead with love.” In this episode, Heather breaks down what that means to her. She believes it's important to challenge yourself to lead your employees from a vulnerable place and influence them to act with compassion, just as Jesus teaches us to love one another. Just like Heather says in Episode 2 - no one wants to work for a jerk. Listen as she shares 5 actions you can practice to Lead with Love and influence your team members to create a more supportive, accountable, and loving working environment - destined to thrive. At Highpoint, we ultimately believe in the platinum rule - treating others the way THEY want to be treated. "...Set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." - 1 Timothy 4:12 Follow Heather Smyrl on LinkedIn Follow Highpoint Insurance Group today! Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn To learn more about Patrick Lencioni's Working Genius, check out his Youtube and Podcast To learn more about the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment, check out their site.

    E52 - Navigating Hard Market Conversations with Todd Guilbeau

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2023 50:01


    The past three years have been filled with unprecedented events and their economic impacts - insurance costs included. In this episode, Heather is joined by Property Underwriter Todd Guilbeau. With 15+ years in the insurance industry, he explains how natural disasters, recessions, labor shortages, and so much more have caused individual's and company's insurance costs to skyrocket. This conversation gives key insight to importance of transparency during this hard market. Listen to learn how you can approach your policies' renewals with confidence and understand the influences behind the challenging premium increases. We know it's hard out there, both personally and corporately, and it's our mission to put our client's mind at ease and help you find real sustainable solutions. ☁️ Heather Smyrl is the CEO of Highpoint Insurance Group located in Friendswood, TX. With 20+ years of experience, she strives to educate, coach, and champion those in the insurance industry to become the best that they can be. Connect with Heather on Linkedin: Heather Smyrl To learn more about Highpoint, visit our social media channels! Facebook - @highpointinsurancegroup Instagram - @highpointinsurancegroup LinkedIn - @highpoint-insurance-group Our Website - www.hpigrp.com

    E51: Becky Khan Saying Yes

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2022 50:27


    Heads up... this week's episode might leave you teary-eyed! Becky Khan speaks on servant leadership - one of Highpoint's core values. Becky has been a Highpoint team member since 2009 and has been a professional, spiritual, and personal leader to every single person on the staff. Besides insurance, she also has been leading ministry for over a decade and is an amazing wife and mother to 3 awesome kids. Their family created the Jane Around the World mission in 2019 and since then, has been making huge waves of change in the greater Houston area - and beyond - for those that are homeless and in the foster care system. Her credit to their success is God's story, and the key is being obedient to the words of the Holy Spirit. Trusting in the unseen can be difficult, but God wants us to succeed - while make positive impact on people's lives. Listen and become inspired now! Jane Around the World: www.janearoundtheworld.org Facebook: @janearoundtheworld12 Instagram: @janearoundtheworld12 Promotional Video: https://vimeo.com/518747978 The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. - Proverbs 16:9

    E50 - Power of Gratitude with Parker Richardson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2022 42:01


    "Gratitude is one of the most underutilized and undervalued resources that we all have that we can actively live out every day." Back and better than ever, it's the 50th episode of BREATHE OUT! Follow us wherever you stream podcasts to keep up with each new episode. In today's episode, Parker Richardson of Highpoint Church in Friendswood, TX shares with us how gratitude is more than an emotion, and can be used as a tool and resource to navigate us through life. He takes the time to explain several points that we can apply in every day situations to transform our attitudes. Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

    E49: Playing for a Purpose - TopGolf Tournament for Charity

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2022 11:21


    You're invited to a NON-PROFIT NIGHT OUT! Let's tee up together for a great cause! Join Highpoint Insurance Group and Hope Legacy Collective at TopGolf as we seek to raise funds for THE BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATERS and LIVING WATER INTERNATIONAL. This will be a fun night dedicated to serving and impacting communities in need locally and around the world. This is also a great opportunity to network with like-minded companies! When: Thursday May 12, 2022 6-9 pm Where: TopGolf Webster To register to play or sponsor, visit www.hpigrp.com/non-profit-night-out/ and click REGISTER NOW, where you'll be redirected to Hope Legacy Collective, a 501(C)(3) organization.

    E48 - The Burden of Burnout with Jackie Keys

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2021 47:08


    Burnout is a lot more than being tired and wanting a vacation. Demanding productivity can literally lead to our bodies shutting down. In this episode, Jackie CHO gets vulnerable and shares how she experienced physical, mental, and spiritual pain because of pushing too hard and reaching burnout. As our business grows and we become busier than ever, it is easy to slip into an adrenaline addiction. The pressure to meet others expectations will end up putting our own needs second. By creating boundaries, changing our mindset, and learning to cope with obstacles in healthy ways we can transform our stress into self-respect. If this episode resonates with you, we encourage you to take the time to rest, reflect, and be honest with yourself and communicate with others to protect your health and wellness.

    E47 - Working Through Soul Purpose with Craig McAndrews

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2021 45:35


    In this episode, Heather is joined by University of Houston Professor Craig McAndrews! In addition to teaching at UH's Bauer College of Business and writing his book Soul Purpose Inc., he has been a mentor for our sales team at Highpoint and leader of our summer internship program. Throughout his experience in corporate America to academia, he has remained a firm believer in the power of prayer. Heather and him talk about the transformational change that happens in our careers when we turn off the noise of the world and obey the guidance of God. When we bring love into the workplace, we can impact the community, our coworkers, and everyone's families & friends. By centering our career path on these principles, our faith and desire to help one another becomes stronger. It motivates someone to work every day to make the world a better place. We highly recommend listening to this episode and reading his book for some powerful inspiration. You can get your own copy of Soul Purpose Inc. at major online retailers like Amazon and B&N or by visiting www.soulpurposeinc.com today!

    E46 - Implementing Our Working Genius with Jackie Keys, CHO

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2021 28:00


    One of the best self-assessment tests we have ever come across is Patrick Lencioni's Working Genius. The results explain how each of us have natural gifts and working frustrations, categorized as Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity. In this week's episode, Heather and Jackie discuss how using this tool in our relationships and agency has made teams stronger, productive, and enthusiastic. We all think differently. Learning what fuels you leads to effective and meaningful work, instead of living in your frustrations. To learn more about The Working Genius, visit www.workinggenius.com now!

    E45: Building Safe Workplaces with HASC's Cami and Dr. Thomas Hysler, MD

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2021 54:57


    In this episode of Breathe Out, Heather is joined by the Health and Safety Council's Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Operations, Thomas and Cami Hysler. Formerly known as the Houston Area Safety Council, the HASC's mission is to build safe workplaces by improving the quality and integrity of the workforce. Since 1990, they have been providing resources to industrial companies such as classroom courses, return to work programs, technical education, and leadership development to establish great safety training in their members' businesses. Tommy and Cami share their career journeys, the growth and development of the HASC, workers compensation insurance, most common injuries, and so much more valuable insight that any business owner can appreciate. To become a member of the HASC or learn more about the resources offered, visit www.hasc.com today!

    E44: Choose Wellness with Jamie Eubanks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2021 33:53


    We're back with a brand new episode featuring our inspiration manager, Jamie Eubanks! In this episode, Coach Jamie and Heather discuss the Wellness Challenge that Jamie organized for our agency. By considering our mental, spiritual, emotional, nutritional, and professional wellbeing, we can see which areas need the most focus to create balance and peace. Running on adrenaline and ignoring our needs leads to burnout and actually depletes our productivity and positive energy. We believe that with small steps of dedication and gratitude, you can create better healthy habits to get out of that negative mindset. Check out our Choose Wellness blog and download your own Daily Habit Tracker by visiting our website at www.hpigrp.com today!

    E43: Part 1 - Servant Leadership with Kelly Niemeier

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2021 46:33


    Kelly Niemeier is a fierce leader with a servant's heart, and in this week's episode she gives a presentation to our Highpoint team on 5 keys to becoming a servant leader. By practicing humility, honor, kindness, unity, and gratitude, we can shape ourselves into strong positive influences on everyone around us. Whether it is at home, at work, in the busy world, or in our faith, we are all given opportunities in life to influence others. Listen and see how you can transform your heart to lead with love. To learn more about Kelly's ministry, visit myhighpointchurch.com today!

    E42: Part 2 - Servant Leadership with Kelly Niemeier

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2021 55:11


    Happy Monday! This month we are focusing on mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. In this episode we listen on a conversation between Heather and Kelly Niemeier of HighPoint Church in Friendswood, Texas. Listen in as we hear about what has inspired her throughout her journey in life and what keeps her motivated. She believes that leadership is nothing more than influence, and shares how we can lift others up to their best potential through our service. To learn more about her ministry, visit myhighpointchurch.com today!

    E41 - Behind the Healthcare Curtain with Erika Ensign

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2021 51:04


    As a businessowner, you probably know that your employee's benefits are in the top 5 administrative costs. Healthcare is something we all need, so shouldn't you be spending that money wisely? In this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather is joined by Senior Risk Architect Erika Ensign - who most people know as The Insurance Lady. Erika has a passion for helping people and exposing the truth of insurance premiums, deductibles, co-pays and so much more in the world of health insurance. She believes that insurance was intended to give us peace of mind, and crippling costs have turned it into a pain. Just as Dorothy goes behind the curtain to find the Wizard of Oz is a bunch of bells & whistles, Erika gives us valuable industry insight and how we can put ourselves in a position to use our benefits and save money. Listen and learn!

    E40 - Making a Difference with Jamie Hampton

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2021 52:17


    One of Highpoint's core values is having a servant's heart, and this week's guest exemplifies just that! Jamie Hampton with Hope Legacy Collective joins Heather as they discuss the different ways we can make a difference in the world. With just a little collaborative effort, we can impact our communities in an incredible way. To learn more, visit hopelegacycollective.org

    E39 - The IQRM: A Business Benchmark

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2021 8:22


    At Highpoint, we believe that strategy without execution is just an idea. So in this week's episode, we want to tell you all about our favorite tool in our toolkit - the IQRM. Exclusive through our membership with the Beyond Insurance Global Network, it's a risk assessment scorecard that benchmarks your company's performance and best practices. By taking intelligent proactive measures, you're ultimately driving your premiums down and improving your business! Check this out under Client Tools on our website, www.hpigrp.com and let us help elevate your success!

    E38 - Highpoint's Company Core Values

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2021 23:21


    Happy Spring Break everyone! In this week's episode of Breathe Out, we took snippets from a presentation Heather gave about our five core values. 1. Servant Leadership 2. Own Your Mess 3. Choose Joy 4. Pursue Discomfort 5. Listen to Understand. We align every decision we make with these fundamental behaviors every day in our office. When you have a solid foundation of beliefs, the business that grows upon them is that much greater. We hope this inspires you to serve others, or step out of your comfort zone, or listen more intently to those around you - maybe you'll even choose your own core values to live your life more authentically ♥️

    E37: Managing the Perfect Schedule

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2021 15:11


    The past year seems like it has been a constant state of uncertainty. It's frustrating to look back and think how much of it has been a blur. How do you make sure you're still progressing when nothing goes according to plan? On this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather reminds us that we live in a world of progress and not perfection. A lot of people avoid creating a weekly schedule for fear it won't work out. That is why we reflect on the failures, give ourselves credit, and adapt in order to be resilient in the hard times. Ask yourself what's working and what gets in the way. Whether it's a proposal, zoom meeting, date night, or workout, it's important to map out what you want to accomplish for yourself and for your family. Face the challenges. Be intentional ♡

    E36: Auto Awareness & Effects of the Hard Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2021 24:09


    Back in Episode 13, we discussed the hard market and why it matters to everyone. After all, 2020 brought its fair share of changes and we're going to feel the growing pains for years to come. In this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather focuses on the auto industry and how the past couple of years have led to premium increases across the board. Record-setting auto claims and medical bills, distracted driving from technology, sleep-deprivation, and stress, delivery demands and deteriorating road infrastructure - these are all variables that have affected the supply & demand of auto coverage. At Highpoint, we encourage you focusing on what YOU can control, despite the uncontrollable and unpredictable. Getting an assessment of your preparedness and making wise choices will ultimately pay off. Let us help you get the most out of your investment and visit us at www.hpigrp.com or send an inquiry to info@hpigrp.com today!

    E35: Sales Perspective with Adam Outland

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2021 54:32


    In this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather is joined by our awesome Sales Coach, Adam Outland! With 15+ years of experience, Adam is a Partner, Executive Coach, and Team Lead for Southwestern Consulting. He has been working with the Highpoint sales team for a few months, and the impact has been incredible. Listen as they talk through Adam's journey from seminars to consultations and take notes on a few secrets and skills to help your business business grow and thrive. When it comes to the client, it's important to tell them what they NEED to hear, not just what they WANT to hear. To learn more about Adam, check out his own podcast "Inside Great Minds" on all streaming services or visit www.southwesternconsulting.com today!

    E34: Love Languages with Jackie Keys, CHO

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2021 33:20


    When you are intentional about showing appreciation for another person, it's important to understand what is actually effective. Author Gary Chapman wrote The Five Love Languages and The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace - two books that provide great understanding to treating people the way they want to be treated - what we at Highpoint call "The Platinum Rule." In this week's episode, Heather sits down with our very own Chief Heart Officer Jackie Keys to discuss each expression - 1) Quality Time 2) Acts of Service 3) Words of Affirmation 4) Physical Touch and 5) Giving Gifts. They provide examples of how the love languages can be applied both personally and professionally to make every one of your relationships more compatible. To learn more, we highly recommend Gary Chapman's books which can be found online and any popular bookstore! Lead with love

    E33: Great Culture Benefits Everyone with Trey Davis

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2021 49:55


    In this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather is joined by Risk Architect Trey Davis! Trey is one of the leaders of our employee benefits department. With 20+ years of experience in the life & health insurance industry, Trey has worked on both the carrier and customer facing sides. He knew Highpoint's outstanding culture and fresh approach to insurance was different and had to join the family! Our extraordinary benefits team takes time to tailor health plans and program preferences for all ages and lifestyles. Listen as they discuss how a strong culture influences everyone - from the employees of Highpoint to the employees we help every year for open enrollment. To learn more about our Risky Business team, visit www.hpigrp.com today!

    E32: Being Extra Careful with Claims Expert George Canavan

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2021 59:02


    Accidents happen, and the insurance industry was created to protect us from unforeseen events and losses. We serve our clients to ensure their businesses are covered by great policies. But we also believe that value must always exceed price, and that coverage is more than a document. In this week's episode of Breathe Out, meet George Canavan! George has 25 years of experience as a client advocate, claims adjuster, and a regular person like you & me. Heather knew that his skills and wisdom were needed at Highpoint to level-up our customer service. We believe by treating people the way you want to be treated, being organized, and remaining persistent, you create a stronger sense of trust with your client while also holding the insurance companies accountable. Listen in on their conversation for some ideas how you and your business can handle claims smarter and improve loss prevention strategies to ultimately lower your expenses. To learn more, visit our website at www.hpigrp.com today!

    E31: Daily Habits Make or Break You

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2021 18:45


    Happy Monday! In this week's episode, we're talking about discipline. We're four weeks into the new year... have you kept your resolutions? Listen as Heather gives some tips and tricks on how she stays on track to accomplish ambitious goals. Good habits are easy to make but hard to keep. It's important to be self-aware of your weaknesses and find support in those areas to hold yourself accountable. Consistency compounds and at Highpoint, WE BELIEVE that success is in the follow-through! After all, strategy without execution is just an idea. To learn more about our awesome team, visit our site www.hpigrp.com today!

    E30: Industry Insight with Scott Howard

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2021 49:24


    This week on Breathe Out, Heather is joined by Highpoint's very own Scott Howard! Scott is a Risk Architect at Highpoint who serves our clients by analyzing their operations and improving their insurance coverages. In this episode, Scott shares stories of his experience in the oil & gas industry. We believe sharing information is one of our greatest assets and we hope you can use it to better your business! If you think your company could benefit from a more analytical approach to insurance, give us a call at 281-204-8770 today to set up a meeting!

    E29: We Reached A Goal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2021 12:15


    Happy New Year! Do you have a 5 or 10 year plan for your business? This week, Heather focuses on goal planning for your business and every aspect of your life. Define your goal and make sure everything is measurable. Level up with Heather and set your vision for the future!

    E28: Spiritual Wellness with Brian Horner of Marketplace Chaplains

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2020 43:51


    Marketplace Chaplains is a faith based non-profit serving Christ and the community through their chaplains. In this week's episode, Heather and Jamie are joined by Brian Horner, Executive Director of Operations in Southeast Houston. This organization is far more than an employee assistance program for Highpoint. It has had impact on our staff's wellness - for both mental and spiritual health. We've even used their services to reach out to our clients when we know they need support. The chaplains that Highpoint has had for a little over two years now are just as much a part of our family as anyone else. They're welcome in our office anytime and are always here to listen and pray over anyone at their request. That's the beauty of this program - it is entirely voluntary and works by reaching into your heart rather than hesitating to reach out. As Brian says, "it's not rocket science - it's a thousand little things that make all the difference." We put forth the highest recommendation on their services, and if you want to learn more you can visit www.mchapusa.com or call (972) 941-4400 to discuss the ways your business could benefit.

    E27: The 75 Hard Challenge

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2020 41:56


    Everyone needs support to overcome their personal battles - inside and out - but getting stronger for yourself is the greatest achievement of all. From September 8 to November 21, two incredibly inspirational women took on Andy Frisella's "75 HARD - A Tactical Guide to Winning the War with Yourself." This 11 week challenge involves transforming your physical state BY transforming your mental state. It doesn't cost anything, but requires a ton of discipline. Listen as Heather and Jamie discuss how they got through all 75 days of committed and intentional self-care. Whether it was scheduling their workouts, daily reading time, or meal plans, they talk about how no other challenge is like 75 Hard and how they PURSUED DISCOMFORT to overcome every trial and temptation. To learn more about this tool you can visit andyfrisella.com and possibly dare to try it out!

    E26: What Are You Waiting For?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2020 12:24


    Wake up call

    E25: How Culture Influences Change with Becky Khan

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2020 59:57


    Everyone responds to change a little differently. At Highpoint, we believe in pursuing discomfort and constant improvement. In this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather is joined by Becky Khan, who has been with the Highpoint family for almost a decade! Becky and her discuss how Highpoint has evolved over time, and how the agency's growth has encouraged personal growth in both our career and home life. Listen as they discuss how our personal development can influence and impact our family, friends, and total strangers. Being in a supportive environment is fundamental to reaching your ultimate potential. We strive to inspire our clients, coworkers, and community. To learn more about Highpoint's culture, check out www.hpigrp.com/who-we-are and like us on Facebook!

    E24: How Culture Reflects Character with Chris Coburn

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2020 62:19


    This week, Heather sits down with Chris Coburn - one of our amazing team members at Highpoint - to discuss how our agency's culture attracts talented and motivated people to want to work there. We believe in having a “Glad to Be Here” mindset and a collaborative environment. This kind of support system encourages people to perform their best and actually look forward to coming to work, instead of dreading every Monday. You can learn about all of our core beliefs and values by visiting www.hpigrp.com today or by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook!

    E23: Pursuing Discomfort and Planning for the Future

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2020 21:33


    In this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather shares some insight on our methods for annual planning. So many changes have happened in 2020 which makes the proactive agenda for 2021 that much more important. Painting our vision for the upcoming year takes an intense amount of focus and devotion to the future. At Highpoint, our management team gets together, leaves town, and escapes from the whirlwind for a week without distractions. We believe every employee's voice matters when it comes to making these decisions, which is why we survey anonymously and encourage honesty and transparency. By listening generously and putting an action plan in place, you'll be able to assess your company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to ensure that every year, your company has growth with real impact.

    E22: The 90/90 Analyzer - Reflection & Elevation

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2020 28:20


    At Highpoint, we believe in working with purpose and consistency. We always try to find a way to literally measure our efforts to ensure that we are always raising the bar. In this episode, Heather goes over a tool that our management has developed called The 90/90 Analyzer. Upon being hired, and every 90 days, we complete a self assessment to grade ourselves on all aspects of our work ethic - from our ability to align with the 5 core values to our energetic capacity to perform with excellence. What's working for you and what isn't? We're honest, intentional, and we adjust every quarter to support each other's success. We hope this inspires you to create a survey for your own organization to give your employees confidence and motivation to be their best!

    E21: Adjustments of the Justice System with Isaac Villareal

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2020 58:54


    There's definitely nothing normal about the new normal. One major aspect of change caused by the global pandemic is how our court systems have responded and adapted to keep things going. In this episode, Heather is joined by Isaac Villareal - Attorney at Law and Parter of the McCathern Law Firm. Listen as they discuss how courts are adapting in a virtual environment, social distancing, and how businesses like yours have responded to stay smart and safe while keeping their business as stable as possible. You can check out the webinar with Isaac from earlier this year and many others by visiting www.hpigrp.com/webinars right now!

    E20: Highpoint's Core Values and Culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2020 39:44


    Listening to understand, owning your mess, leading with a servant's heart, choosing joy, and pursuing discomfort - these are the five core values that Highpoint aligns every decision with. In this episode, Heather tells the story of why these were chosen and how they inspire our extraordinary workplace culture. Whether it's a single strong mission statement or several principles, we believe that setting a foundation of shared beliefs is the best way to have strong leadership at every level. To learn more about Highpoint's culture, visit www.hpigrp.com and click “Who We Are” to find inspiration for your own organization!

    E19: The Extraordinary Productivity of Q2

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2020 20:56


    Time management is crucial to achieving your long-term goals. In this episode, Heather demonstrates the concept of dividing your tasks-at-hand into four quadrants based on importance and urgency. More often than not, we are pulled into the whirlwind of urgent unexpected emails and phone calls, we have meetings to attend, and we end up feeling burned out. It requires intentionality to do the things that will have the most impact on your roles and goals. To watch the video of this lesson, follow this link: https://vimeo.com/467354279 and try it out for both your personal and professional life. Schedule the big rocks, don't sort gravel!

    time extraordinary productivity
    E18: The L-10 Meeting Structure

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2020 18:08


    Every week at Highpoint, each employee has an L-10 on their calendar. Inspired by EOS Worldwide and blended with elements Heather has picked up over 12 years of experience, Highpoint has found this meeting structure has been the most productive. We believe in listening to understand, speaking straight, and using our time wisely. After using it for a year, the goals we have achieved have led to major innovation and moving our agency forward. It has made us stronger and we want to help elevate the productivity of your business too! Check out the book “Traction” by Gino Wickman, founder of www.eosworldwide.com. If you have any questions for Heather, shoot an email to info@hpigrp.com today!

    E17: Getting Practical with EPLI

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2020 23:09


    As a leader, it's important to realize one way you can show you care about your employees is putting proper EPLI coverages in place. Employment Practices Liability Insurance is meant to protect people from the risk of workplace harrassment, wrongful termination, breach of contract, discrimination based on religion, race, age, or gender identity, and more. In this week's episode, Heather recommends putting policies in place to prevent claims of unethical behavior and wrongful lawsuits. She also shares a few case studies to give insight on today's reality of these liabilities. Talk to your agent today if you are interested in protecting your business and all your employees! Visit us at www.hpigrp.com

    E16: Up Close & Personal with Highpoint Private Client

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2020 50:04


    In this week's episode, Heather is joined by Mike Buoy - Highpoint's expert on all things Personal Lines. You may think that your car and house are the only assets needing insurance, but it's a lot more complex than that! This episode is filled with information and insight you probably never even considered. With more people staying at home and going out less, we're seeing personal risk exposures grow and evolve and we want to make sure you're covered in the case of a loss or accident. If you're not already with us, visit our website and submit your info for a quote today!

    E15: The Basic Strategies of Risk Management

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2020 16:22


    At Highpoint, we partner up with our clients to actually make sure we ask the right questions and offer the best solutions to protect what you have. We know that understanding insurance can be overwhelming, and we want to simplify for you! Risk management can be broken down into four basic strategies, and in this week's episode, Heather goes over each one and how Highpoint chooses the right approach for different needs. Stay tuned for more in-depth information in upcoming episodes - and if you're wondering about your own coverages and exposures, chat with us at www.hpigrp.com today! If you have any questions about this episode or ideas about future episodes, you can text “PODCAST” to 281-204-8770 or send us an email at info@hpigrp.com. Please leave a review and subscribe & follow today

    E14: The Meaning of Labor Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2020 4:31


    Happy Monday! This week on Breathe Out, Heather shares a little history on the meaning of Labor Day. Hard work is important for success, but so is taking the time to relax and connect. We hope you're enjoying your day off - tune in next week!

    E13: What's a Hard Market and How Does it Affect You?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2020 38:43


    The year 2020 has brought its fair share of changes into our lives, and the insurance industry is no exception. As if your policies weren't confusing enough! In this episode of Breathe Out, Heather breaks down the current climate of the “hard market” so that you can better understand the affects it has on your business, home, auto, and other coverages. There's no doubt the economy will continue to evolve during these unprecedented times, and we believe it's important to keep our clients informed and prepared to ensure not only the sustainability of their business, but especially their success! If you have any questions or concerns, call Highpoint Insurance Group today to speak to an agent or visit us at www.hpigrp.com and drop your question in the chat!

    E12: Finding Your Rhythm to Relax and Connect

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2020 32:20


    In this week's episode of Breathe Out, the Wonder Women join forces again to discuss the importance of relaxation and connection. In our fast-paced work environment - especially when Heather is your boss - it can become difficult to slow down and give yourself permission to rest. Listen as they discuss the importance of recharging and how it goes hand-in-hand with reconnecting with your loved ones and your truest self. To learn more about how Highpoint focuses on wellness, visit www.hpigrp.com or follow us on your favorite social channels :)

    E11: Wonder Woman Leadership and Wellness

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2020 47:04


    This week on Breathe Out, CEO Heather Smyrl is joined by the management team at Highpoint Insurance Group! Aimee Gibbs, Jamie Eubanks, Jackie Keys, and Amy Nicholas are also known as our Wonder Women and are the backbone of the agency. Leadership means understanding every person has unique strengths and weaknesses, and in this episode these ladies tell us their stories of struggle, support, and success. Listen to see how strong self development can start in your 9-5 and bring greatness into your life and personal journey. To learn more about our team, visit www.hpigrp.com and follow us on your fave social media channel!

    E10: Heather's Top 10 Books for a Better YOU

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2020 25:45


    On this week's episode of Breathe Out, Heather shares the top ten books that have helped her learn to lead stronger and wiser. Listen as she breaks down how book provides its own secret to success! - The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey - The Five Choices by Stephen Covey - Find Your Why by Simon Sinek - Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud - The Collaborative Way by Jason and Lloyd Fickett - Leadershift Insights by Jennifer Eggers - The Growth Mindset by Carol S. Dweck - The One Thing by Gary Keller - Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss - The Fred Factor by Mark Sanborn After all, everyone's a student and every day is an opportunity to use that knowledge. It's what Breathe Out is all about! To learn more about Highpoint's company culture, visit www.hpigrp.com today and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram

    E9: Fuel Your Fire - Don't Burn Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2020 16:49


    In a highly productive society, wellness makes all the difference! You can't pour from an empty cup. In this episode, Heather breaks down the elements of Fuel Your Fire - Move, Eat, Sleep, Relax, and Connect. When these aspects of our life become intentional, our energy source balances and we can begin to perform better! Listen now to get a sense of what you can change in your everyday life to become more conscious of your habits and elevate your personal, professional, and overall wellbeing

    E8: Morning Routines are a Game Changer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2020 13:23


    Rise and shine and grind! ☀️☁️ In this episode of Breathe Out, Heather talks about how her ritual has evolved to keep fueling the fire. It takes a commitment to begin waking up early and devote the start of each day to YOURSELF. Press play and this could be the inspiration you need to develop that morning routine rhythm! Learn more about Highpoint's focus on wellness by visiting https://hpigrp.com today.

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