Limitless Possibilities

“You cannot rest on your laurels. Yes, we are a top-ten Children's Hospital, but we strive to continue to get better and better every year.” — Diane Hupp Description: This episode stars Diane Hupp, President of UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. In her impressive career, Diane has embodied “limitless possibilities” at every turn. Listen as she documents her journey from UPMC volunteer to President across her 40-year career.Acrisure provided a $7.5 million gift to UPMC Children's, the largest corporate gift ever received by the foundation. Your host John Pelle and Diane explore facets of this partnership, and much more, in this conversation.  Key Takeaways: [1:38] Diane shares her career journey from volunteer to President of UPMC Children's.[5:30] Why UPMC Children's continues to strive to get better, despite extraordinary success.[7:34] What it means to be ranking-driven, not ranking-motivated.[9:14] How being in Pittsburgh fosters innovation and constant growth through technology.[11:36] Diane mentions four doctors who have devoted more than four decades of their lives to their professions.[12:57] Inside Acrisure's partnership with UPMC Children's, and what we look forward to doing together.[15:56] How the Pittsburgh Steelers partner with and support UPMC Children's.[20:00] The limitless opportunities that lie ahead. Further Reading: Acrisure Donates $7.5 Million to UPMC Children's Hospital FoundationAcrisure.comUPMC Children's Hospital of PittsburghAcrisure on LinkedIn, Instagram and TwitterSend your ideas, questions, and suggestions for future episodes to Communications@acrisure.com Notable Quotes: “Every child and every family that comes our way will receive top-notch, extraordinary, compassionate care” – Diane Hupp“From a leadership perspective, it's important that they know that you care about them, that you listen, and that you are going to take action when they speak.” – Diane Hupp“I felt as if there was an instantaneous relationship between Greg Williams and our team.” – Diane Hupp

“When you start your [military] leadership journey, you become responsible for more than just yourself. And when you translate that into starting a company or entrepreneurship, it's the same thing… but you have the confidence that you can overcome that unknown.” — Blake Mathies Description:In this episode, your host John Pelle, has the honor of being joined by two Air Force veterans. Join Blake Mathies, part-owner and CEO of Purple Mountain Solutions and Acrisure client, and Tina Semotan, Managing Partner of Acrisure's Midwest Region as they candidly discuss the transition from military service to entrepreneurialism, how to lead teams through change, and the power of communication. Key Takeaways:[1:22] Tina introduces her background and the new role of Managing Partner at Acrisure.[4:24] Blake shares the entrepreneurial spark that led him to co-found Purple Mountain Solutions. [8:20] Tina and Blake share lessons learned in the Air Force and how they put them into practice in the business world.[9:11] Blake shares how his life in the armed forces prepared him for his life as an entrepreneur.[15:40] Tina talks about her perspective on the importance of a player-led team in a company's transformation.[19:34] What role does purpose play in change management? Further Reading:A Green Light for Mom: A Boy's Journey through a Deployment, Jayden M. SemotanAcrisure.comAcrisure onLinkedIn,Instagram andTwitterSend your ideas, questions, and suggestions for future episodes to Communications@acrisure.com Notable Quotes:“You have to get comfortable in the uncomfortable chaos, and if you can do it, that is how you can outperform and win over other people.” — Tina Semotan“When you can pull that thread through to the purpose and where we're going… that's when you get the buy-in, that's when you get people running up a hill no matter what, trying to make sure that they get the mission done.”— Tina Semotan

“Why do you need to transform when you are successful as it is?” — Steven Mandis Key Takeaways:[1:34] How Real Madrid looked beyond the sports industry to build a premiere global brand.[4:40] Ways in which data transformed the Real Madrid fan experience.[7:01] Tamara discusses ways to track and measure the success of digital transformation efforts.[10:17] Steven explores the critical role culture plays in tying it all together. [13:05] Why Acrisure is changing the way business is traditionally done. Further Reading:Listen to Episode 3 (Part 1 of this conversation)The Real Madrid Way by Steven MandisAcrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedIn, Instagram and TwitterSend your ideas, questions, and suggestions for future episodes to Communications@acrisure.com Notable Quotes:“Having direct access to customers, to be able to touch and connect to fans, is really important for loyalty and passion and people sharing experiences together.” — Steven Mandis“We're very thoughtful around the way in which we deliver technology so that it is focused on the end user now, but also in the future.” – Tamara Zaichkowsky“Culture is the glue that holds the organization together.” – Steven Mandis

“What I learned very quickly is that winning is important, but it's actually much more than that.” – Steven Mandis Key Takeaways:[1:40] The evolution of Acrisure's digital marketplace.[3:10] Steven's journey connecting investing, finance and sports and entertainment.[9:15] Why Real Madrid elected to transform during a period of success.[11:44] What to do when winning is not enough.[15:14] Behind the scenes of Acrisure's digital transformation to create better client experiences. Further Reading:The Real Madrid Way by Steven MandisAcrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedIn, Instagram and TwitterSend your ideas, questions, and suggestions for future episodes to Communications@acrisure.com Notable Quotes:“People were obviously happy with winning, but they weren't winning the way that they wanted to win with the players that they wanted to win with.” – Steven Mandis“We're using not only the applications we put in place, but the feedback that's coming from those to ultimately build out better products and provide greater customer service.” – Tamara Zaichkowsky “We're not waiting to be disrupted or waiting for a reason to transform.” – John Pelle

Key Takeaways:[1:10] Soz's take on Netflix, Blockbuster and anticipating client needs.[6:48] The importance of thinking three years ahead.[8:36] What you leave on the table if you rest on past success.[10:46] Benefits that creating a category brings to clients and employees.Further Reading:Season 2, Episode 1: We're Not Slowing DownAcrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedIn, Instagram and TwitterSend your ideas, questions, and suggestions for future episodes to Communications@acrisure.comNotable Quotes:“How much disruption that you can lead do you leave on the table by not thinking three to five years from now and then going and doing something with it?” – Sozon Vatikiotis“And you go back to the Blockbuster situation . . . there was an opportunity there that probably passed them by. And when it's gone, it's gone. It's a little too hard to, at that point, shift when you need to.” – Sozon Vatikiotis“Acrisure thinks about the things others are not contemplating.” — Sozon Vatikiotis

Key Takeaways:[1:17] A brief history of Acrisure's ambitious growth strategy.[6:10] Why Acrisure chose to transform again.[9:50] Getting comfortable with change.[10:40] How can organizations transform what needs to be disrupted but keep what needs to be foundational and stable?[14:44] Why proper connectivity, awareness, and education with all key stakeholders is important during transformation.Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TwitterSend us your ideas, questions, and suggestions for future episodes at Communications@acrisure.comNotable Quotes:“Change is the constant in Acrisure; we are always looking for ways to improve.” — Sozon Vatikiotis“We've created something that's incredible today but could be once in a generation tomorrow.” — Sozon Vatikiotis“You have to maintain the right connectivity with all key stakeholders, and then there have to be constant awareness, education, and engagement.” — Sozon Vatikiotis

“The bottom-line benefit of reinsurance is that it makes a more efficient market and a more affordable product.” — Simon HedleyIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by Simon Hedley, Chief Executive Officer of Acrisure Re.John and Simon catch up ahead of Monte Carlo Rendez-Vous, the largest gathering for insurance and reinsurance leaders. Simon chats trends affecting the world of reinsurance, the importance of DE&I and giving back, and factors in Acrisure Re's exceptional growth over the past few years.Tune in for a rundown of reinsurance today as we look ahead to 2023.Key Takeaways:[0:58] Simon shares his excitement about being back in Monte Carlo with the Acrisure team.[1:49] What is going to be the dominant conversation at Rendez-Vous?[3:05] Simon talks about key trends that will be addressed looking ahead at 2023.[4:07] Simon explains the meaning of reinsurance.[5:26] What is Acrisure doing differently than other reinsurance brokers to be growing so quickly?[7:19] Simon highlights the incredible charitable initiatives that the Acrisure Re Division has embarked on.[8:51] What is the focus of the Acrisure Re for the rest of 2022?[9:50] Simon speaks to some of the things the team has been working on recently.[12:49] Simon shares his words with colleagues working in the reinsurance division.Further Reading:AcrisureRe.com Acrisure on LinkedInAcrisure Re on LinkedInNotable Quotes:“A big part of the reason why we've been able to double in size and double our revenue over the last four years since joining Acrisure, is that we have diversified our business.” — Simon Hedley“We collectively felt it was important for us as a business, important for us as people, to be involved in these DE&I and charitable initiatives.” – Simon Hedley“Limitless possibilities describes the heart of Acrisure Re.”— Simon Hedley

“This is a partnership of leaders and because of that I think the opportunity is so rich for people. If you have a goal, come to Acrisure… It's limitless.” — Brigitte EgbertIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by two award-winning and dynamic leaders: Jennifer Anderson, Partner at Bozzuto & Associates Insurance Services, and Brigitte Egbert, Executive Vice President and Commanding Partner at Monarch Insurance Services.Jennifer and Brigitte explore the latest insurance trends in industries from real estate to cannabis, share their perspectives on DE&I efforts in the insurance community, and discuss the limitless impact of partnering with a brand like Acrisure. By leveraging their connections and resources as Acrisure Partners, they have been able to expand their business and find solutions for any and all client needs.Key Takeaways:[2:14] Jennifer talks about what keeps her motivated in her everyday responsibilities at Bozzuto.[3:14] Brigitte shares the reasons why she became an entrepreneur and a business partner for Acrisure.[4:56] The world is getting riskier; Jennifer and Brigitte share how they are preventing this for their clients.[8:02] Jennifer talks about the particulars of their work with contractors.[9:32] How is Jennifer tackling communication in regards to the insurance business?[11:48] Brigitte shares how she would compel someone to become part of Acrisure's story.[13:04] Jennifer speaks about her experience with Acrisure.[15:20] Jennifer talks about her mission and involvement as the President of the Board of Directors of CREW Silicon Valley.[16:27] Brigitte shares her perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion.[17:27] Brigitte talks about Acrisure being a great place for women in the industry.[18:43] What do limitless possibilities mean to Jennifer?[19:21] Brigitte shares her thoughts about limitless possibilities.Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInBozzuto & Associates Insurance ServicesMonarch Insurance ServicesNotable Quotes:“There's nothing we can't do and on top of it we're going to do it better than our competitors..” — Jennifer Anderson“Every time that I've actually reached out and talked to [an Acrisure Partner] and been introduced to someone it served to my advantage which ultimately is a plus for my clients.” — Brigitte Egbert

“One of the really cool stories about Acrisure is that you have this convergence of small businesses. Those operators, those entrepreneurs, those founders, had what it took to be diligent, aggressive, creative, entrepreneurial and build companies that are now part of Acrisure.” — Bill MearaIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by Bill Meara, President of Acrisure Cyber Services. Bill has built and operated several successful companies and today leads Acrisure's newest vertical line of business, which leverages best-in-class security products, modern AI techniques and cloud-native architecture to minimize clients' risk. In this episode, Bill discusses his background as an entrepreneur and what drew him to Acrisure. He also provides an overview of the Cyber Services team and solution and how it can support small to mid-size clients in an increasingly risky world. Key Takeaways:[4:47] Bill speaks about the transition from where he started to now, being part of Acrisure's team.[6:52] Bill talks about Acrisure's impressive entrepreneurial makeup and ethos.[8:10] What is Bill's philosophy for growing a company?[12:35] Bill digs into the cyber services solution and what it entails.[13:36] Bill highlights the financial impact of the cyber services security blanket offering, reducing Acrisure's cyber security liability costs to zero.[15:19] How is the Acrisure cyber services offering unique? [19:20] What does “limitless possibilities” mean to Bill?Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInNotable Quotes:“I expect everybody to think creatively and to figure out ways to add products to our portfolio or offerings that are synergistic, that can add additional value for our customers.” — Bill Meara“We're in a very unique situation in the fact that we have two million plus clients that we can bring a resource and solution to help protect their businesses.”  — Bill Meara

“You have talent that you leave untapped if you don't provide access.” — Dr. Leroy Nunery IIIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by Dr. Leroy (“Lee”) Nunery II, President of Evolution Advisors, a joint venture whose Founding Partners include Acrisure, Russell Westbrook, Ciara and Russell Wilson. Lee brings us back to 1969 where his personal journey as an advocate for racial and economic justice begins. He explains what led him to his role at the forefront of Evolution Advisors, and why this mission of providing access for minority communities is so important in our world today. Listen to Lee's powerful message and be a part of the change. Key Takeaways:[1:42] Lee shares his story starting with the significant date of October 9th, 1969.[5:30] Lee highlights his motivation to provide access to opportunities through Evolution Advisors.[6:27] Lee speaks about his transition from his father's business to the world of academia.[10:38] Lee shares his experience during his recent presentation for the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) and provides insights from his research.[13:03] What makes Evolution Advisors different in its vision? How will they reach success?[15:48] Lee mentions some of the current priorities and ongoing work of Evolution Advisors.[18:17] Lee shares a football story.[20:03] Lee speaks about superior thought and what it means to see limitless possibilities. Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInEvolution Advisors Notable Quotes:“I don't want to see anyone struggle when they have the goods and are willing to work hard.” — Dr. Leroy Nunery II“How can people access the information my father couldn't get? How do we break that code so people can get the right opportunities to maximize their time? It is still in early stages but we are making great progress.” — Dr. Leroy Nunery II“If we strive in a way that is coherent and cohesive, and we really try to do something different, like we're talking about with Evolution, in concert with every other agency partner, we'll show the world that it's possible.” — Dr. Leroy Nunery II

“I've always wanted to be part of a small rebellion. And one of the things that appealed to me about Acrisure was the opportunity to be part of that rebellion, part of that small team that is doing things differently.” — Lowell SingerIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by Lowell Singer, Acrisure's Chief Financial Officer. From a brief appearance on Jimmy Kimmel to his current role as CFO, in this episode Lowell highlights the impact of the latest and most significant capital raise of his tenure, leading to Acrisure's $23 billion valuation. As a man of numbers - in a company of numbers - Lowell highlights how the financial metrics of Acrisure are consistent with some of the top-performing publicly listed companies in the world, and shares his excitement about the future of our fast-growing fintech.Get ready to talk numbers… and so much more.Key Takeaways:[1:30] Lowell is a student of stand-up comedy, but what's harder: reporting on quarterly earnings or telling a joke to a crowd full of people?[2:45] What makes a brand great?[4:20] Lowell gives a special shout-out to the finance team for their hard work.[5:54] Lowell talks about the many ongoing and upcoming projects that the finance team is prioritizing for the remainder of 2022.[7:28] Lowell chats about the latest round of funding and its impact on new investors and company stakeholders.[8:51] What numbers paint the best picture of Acrisure?[11:42] Lowell tells us about his brief encounter with Jimmy Kimmel.[13:34] What does Limitless Possibilities mean for Lowell?Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInAcrisure Closes $725 Million Equity Funding, Valuing Business At $23 BillionNotable Quotes:“We benefit as a company when the financial organization and the business teams are working in concert.”  — Lowell Singer“The opportunities are extraordinary if we can continue to execute as well as we have been executing for much of the last decade.” — Lowell Singer“There are about 70,000 publicly listed companies in the world. And if you then drill down into companies of 15 billion or north in market cap, that are based in the US, that have EBITDA margins north of 30%, that have unlevered free cash flow margins of 70%, and that drive annual revenue growth of more than 15%, when you look at that entire universe of publicly traded companies, I think there are three names on that list. And those financial metrics are consistent with what we're delivering as a private company.” — Lowell Singer“If we can continue to execute on our strategy… and then layer in some incremental organic growth… it puts us in a very rarefied group… that I think public and private investors are interested in.” — Lowell Singer

“You can change the world. Dream big.” — Sally FarrarIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by Sally Farrar, CEO of Elevated Title, an Acrisure Real Estate Partner. Sally walks us through her journey as an entrepreneur - from law school to title insurance and real estate - as well as the benefits of partnering with Acrisure. Her winning spirit and passion for supporting and uplifting fellow women shine forth throughout her story. Tune in and “dream big” with Sally! Key Takeaways:[1:38] Sally shares the beginning and evolution of her entrepreneurial journey.[3:30] Sally speaks about her inner “fighting spirit” that drives her forward.[5:22] Sally explains the inner workings of a title agency.[9:45] Sally explains how Acrisure's partnership and technology has helped them modernize and innovate.[10:50] Sally speaks to the natural progression of Acrisure's services to being able to provide loans and title insurance.[13:50] Sally shares how new Acrisure Partners can make the most out of their partnership.[15:40] Sally shares her passion for women's sports and coaching, and the concept of “Her Goal, Your Goal.”[17:31] Sally extends her advice to other women who want to encourage young women to pursue their dreams.[18:23] What does limitless possibilities mean to Sally?Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInElevated TitleHer Goal, Your GoalNotable Quotes:“Your biggest successes come from your failures and your ability to understand your weaknesses.” - Sally Farrar“I hated losing more than I liked winning. And that really drives me.” - Sally Farrar“Title Insurance Agencies are still stuck in the '80s and with Acrisure's partnership, they can bring us into the next century.” — Sally Farrar“The most successful title insurance agencies in the industry have partnered with real estate and lenders companies.”— Sally Farrar

“The world is a very uncertain place at the moment, in many respects, and managing the risk that goes with that is paramount.” – Grahame MillwaterIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, is joined by Grahame Millwater, Acrisure's President of Global Insurance, who dives right into the importance of a strong company culture and engaging with the incredibly talented people within the world of Acrisure. What does it take to stay ahead of trends in an increasingly “risky'' environment? It all starts with curiosity… tune in to find out more.Key Takeaways:[0:57] Grahame shares his perspective on the famous business quote: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”[2:57] Grahame explains why he thinks that execution also eats strategy for breakfast.[3:38] “We must make one and one equal three.” Grahame speaks about the meaning of this phrase for him.[5:15] What are the trends that Grahame sees in the marketplace that show that Acrisure is in the right areas with the right talent to achieve success?[7:46] Grahame suggests how to stay on top of industry trends, and how it starts with curiosity.[9:12] Grahame speaks to the value of peer-to-peer communication. [12:23] What is Grahame's sales pitch for a career in insurance today?[14:07] Grahame shares his suggestions about talent and young leadership programs.[18:05] Working for the best boss is fundamental to Grahame; he openly talks about his experiences with different bosses during his career.[20:43] What does limitless possibilities mean to Grahame?Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInAcrisure on InstagramLearn more about Grahame MIllwaterNotable Quotes:“Culture is incredibly important; if you don't get the culture right you will never get the organization right.” — Grahame Millwater“A team growing in the same direction is what makes an organization successful.” — Grahame Millwater“The world is getting riskier; the more solutions we can provide, the better.” — Grahame Millwater“The best team is made up of different types of skilled people.” — Grahame Millwater

“There's always going to be reasons not to do something. My advice is: just go do it.” – Sozon "Soz" VatikiotisIn this episode, your host, John Pelle, Director of Communications at Acrisure, is joined by Soz Vatikiotis, Acrisure's Chief Operating Officer, who opens up about his unique personal journey and highlights some of the incredible accomplishments of the dynamic, growing team at the “greatest company in the world.” Learn how to think abundantly and get ready to feel inspired.Key Takeaways:[1:46] Soz started at Acrisure as an Acrisure Partner (AP) principal and now sits in the executive team; he describes his different roles at Acrisure and how his journey has been so far.[9:35] Soz recommends embracing the opportunities in front of you and thinking outside of the box.[12:34] Soz talks about the “cool things” happening at Acrisure and he mentions some of the great collaborations across verticals making it all possible.[18:39] Soz highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with “abundant thinkers.”[22:30] What does “limitless possibilities” mean to Soz?Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInAcrisure on InstagramNotable Quotes:“At Acrisure, the sky really is the limit.” — Soz Vatikiotis“Nothing prevents us from achieving our goals; only us” — Soz Vatikiotis“I do feel incredibly strongly that this is a business that people will write case studies about one day.” — Soz Vatikiotis

“We built our system from scratch; at Acrisure we don't just buy things, but we are building them.” — Greg WilliamsElliott Bundy (Chief Communications and Marketing Officer) and Greg Williams, Co-Founder, CEO and President of Acrisure, cover Acrisure's “Rocketship” growth to $3.5 billion in revenue from just $38 million eight years ago. Through partnership, innovation, and customer-obsession, Acrisure is building a company like no other.Hear from the voices of Acrisure in this all-new series from the global fintech leader. Key Takeaways:[1:27] Greg shares how Acrisure's journey to fintech leader began.[6:14] Greg explains how recommendations that have been acted on went from 10% to 30%.[7:41] The capabilities Acrisure has today as a company are completely different from the ones it had two years ago.[8:35] Greg talks about the new verticals that have taken the company into areas beyond its core insurance offerings.[12:50] Greg speaks on the differentiators between Acrisure and other companies providing similar services.[16:41] The partnership orientation and the culture around it are two aspects that identify the core values of Acrisure.[18:48] Acrisure is going to outwork its competitors.[19:48] Greg defines himself as a serial entrepreneur surrounded by other successful entrepreneurs.Further Reading:Acrisure.comAcrisure on LinkedInAcrisure on InstagramNotable Quotes:“At Acrisure, we are doing now the things that we envisioned two years ago.” — Greg Williams“We built our system from scratch; at Acrisure we don't just buy things, but we are building them.” — Greg Williams“At Acrisure, technology platforms work as connective tissues.” — Greg Williams

How do you grow a company 100x? It starts with a Limitless mindset.In this first episode of the “Limitless Possibilities Podcast,” Elliott Bundy (Chief Communications and Marketing Officer) is joined by Acrisure Co-Founder, CEO and President Greg Williams for a candid discussion.Key Takeaways:[:51] Greg Williams, Co-Founder, CEO, and President of Acrisure joins Elliott to tell the story of Acrisure.[1:34] What makes now the right time to talk about Acrisure?[3:32] Greg and Elliott talk about Acrisure's rapid growth and evolution from an insurance broker to a fintech from June 2018 until today.Further Reading:Acrisure.com Acrisure on LinkedInAcrisure on InstagramNotable Quotes:“You can't adopt something you do not understand.” — Greg Williams“What you are known for as a company is not necessarily who you are.”— Greg Williams

Each episode will feature the stories of leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts as they define what it means to be part of a limitless culture. These are the voices of Acrisure.