You Don't Know Schmitt!

Episode Lucky #13 of Liv Louder is here! On this VERY special International Women's Day 2022 I am THRILLED to bring you this conversation with Kim Beach, Founder & CEO of InsureWomen!   I met Kim a couple of months ago via Zoom and I could tell instantly there was something special about her energy.  She shared a little bit about her background and how she got into the insurance industry (Did I mention that she's also the owner of Village Insurance, an independent agency in the Cincinnati, OH area?!).  And then she started talking about her passion to empower female insurance consumers and create a community for other women in the industry...she had me at "hello."   After a soft launch locally in Cincinnati, InsureWomen is going Coast to Coast on March 8, 2022!  (Link below for you to click & join!) Listen in as we talk about how Kim's road led her to open her own agency and start InsureWomen!  We discuss the importance of following our inner curiosity (sometimes into the unknown), letting go of living small and believing that really great things are possible. Yes, we kickoff this conversation with a lot of football talk (pun intended), but there is so much warmth and energy as this interview goes on.    Kim has definitely inspired me and I know, without a doubt, that she will inspire you to Liv Louder! Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimbeach/ Learn More & JOIN InsureWomen: https://www.insurewomen.com/   

Episode #12 of Liv Louder is here!! You are not hearing double.  This is the Liv Mashup with not just one, but TWO Liv's.   I had the HUGE privilege to sit down with the amazing and talented, Liv Coffman of Openly.  I have only known Liv for a few months, but have been impressed by her and the Openly platform from the moment our world's collided.  I knew I wanted to get to know her more... Liv is a Business Development Manager at Openly, Inc, an insuretech company helping independent agents rethink how they quote and sell personal lines.  But there's so much more to Liv's story... Listen in as we talk about how the heck Liv found her way into the insurance industry and why she loves it.  We also talk about her EARLY morning routine, how the culture at Openly helps her continue growing, and her plans to continue inspiring change in this wonderful industry we call home.   This conversation definitely has a little bit of everything.  Yes, there's a little fashion commentary, but there's also a lot of heart woven into every part of this interview.   I am so honored to have had this time with Liv and appreciate the honesty and vulnerability she poured into our chat.   I know that she has inspired me and she will inspire you to Liv Louder!   Connect with Liv: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liv-coffman-b06ba294/ Learn more about Openly: https://www.linkedin.com/company/openlyinc/ https://openly.com/  

Episode #11 of Liv Louder is here! A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be a guest on the Awkward Insurance Podcast hosted by the lovely and talented Dustyne Bryant and Cat Ferris.  I agreed to the interview on one condition: they had to return the favor.  And true to their word, they sat down with me to be "grilled" on my show. Over the course of a couple of conversations, I feel like the three of us have become friends who happen to also be hosting podcasts.  I loved getting an opportunity to dig into life.  This interview goes a lot of different directions as we cover everything from Thanksgiving vs Christmas, how our individual differences create strengths in teams, and what happens when we know and own our value.  You will definitely hear the word "willingness" A LOT (apologies in advance for how much we use it), but believe me when I say we just couldn't escape the critical impact of it! I have truly enjoyed every moment that I've gotten to spend with Dustyne and Cat, getting to know them as insurance professionals, moms, and all the things that make up the wonderful women they are.  I know, without a doubt, they will inspire you to Liv Louder! XO! Liv   Connect with Dustyne & Cat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustyne-bryant-mba-cic-cisr-69b65033/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathariya/ Check out the Awkward Insurance Podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1536976375/e/1000540905608  Follow The National Alliance for Insurance Education: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-national-alliance-for-insurance-education-&-research/ https://www.scic.com/

Episode #10 of Liv Louder is out! This week I got to spend another hour with the dynamic due: Noelle Codispoti and Sharla Floyd of Verto, LLC.  After our first conversation I felt like there was so much left to talk about and managed to talk these wonderful women into another interview! We dive into their decision to leap boldly into their entrepreneurial journey, the evaluation process that helps them deal with distractions and stay on mission, and why transparency, action and accountability are all required to generate real change. We cover a lot of ground in this conversation and I am again feel lucky to walk away learning so much from two people willing to share valuable insight with me and all of you.   I know they will inspire you to Liv Louder!   Connect with Sharla & Noelle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharla-floyd-70728062/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/codispoti/   Learn more about Verto: https://www.vertollc.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertollc/   

Episode #9 of Liv Louder is OUT! This week I get to catch up with the one and only Jen Tadin, Chief Growth Officer of Bold Penguin.  Jen has been a powerful female voice in the insurance industry for years.  She is a Small Business expert and has been a major influence on helping the industry better serve this business sector.  She has also openly shared her experience and insight on women in business, diversity and equity challenging and empowering her audience to think and do things differently.  I experienced this the first time I met Jen when she shared a simple question that immediately started creating a shift in my perspective.   Listen in as we dive into that story, the power of uncomfortable conversations, self-advocacy strategies and the value of self-care...and so much more.  Jen shares so much during this episode - there is truly something for everyone throughout this conversation.  Her openness, authenticity and energy shine through from beginning to and I KNOW she will inspire you to Liv Louder! XO, Liv   Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jentadin/ Learn more about Bold Penguin: https://www.boldpenguin.com/ 

Episode #8 of Liv Louder is out! This week I got to sit down with, not one, but TWO incredible women.  Noelle Codispoti and Sharla Floyd of Verto, LLC join the show and share their experience in the insurance industry and how they are helping this industry make much needed shifts from the ground up. This conversation covers everything from how the events of 9/11 impacted their careers and brought their worlds together, the very important ingredients that make their business and friendship work, the loyalty issue when it comes to retaining talent across the insurance industry...and how companies can go about solving it.   We cover SO much in this conversation...and we didn't even get close to diving into all the topics we wanted to cover.  Stay tuned for Part 2! I am so appreciative of Sharla and Noelle, their willingness to share, and the work they are doing at Verto to serve the insurance community.  I know, without a doubt, that these two wonderful women will inspire you to Liv Louder!   Connect with Sharla & Noelle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharla-floyd-70728062/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/codispoti/   Learn more about Verto: https://www.vertollc.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertollc/   

Episode #7 of Liv Louder is out! I feel incredibly lucky to have met Rachel Robison at the Young Agents Conference in the great state of Tennessee a few weeks ago.  I feel even luckier that we hit it off immediately and she agreed to come on the show.   Rachel is the Co-Founder of Siege AOS.  After working for a few years in an independent agency, Rachel chose to take a break, but the insurance world called her back!  As she looked at her career opportunities, she found herself in the insuretech startup space. Rachel and her business partner were all too familiar with the technology and efficiency issues independent agencies face.  This understanding and love of the industry created a passion for brining better solutions to the industry and SiegeAOS was born.   There is so much in this episode from insurance, fitness, motherhood and all the other stuff of life.  Rachel brings a richness and insight I appreciated at every turn in the conversation and I know she will inspire you to liv louder! XO, Liv Connect with Rachel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crrobison/ Learn more about SiegeAOS: https://www.siegeaos.com/  

Episode #6 of Liv Louder is out!! I was beyond excited to sit down with the one and only Whitnee Dillard.  She is the Director, Diversity & Inclusion for IIABA.  I had been hearing her name in conversations as someone I "needed to know" for so long that I felt like we were already friends by the time we were finally able to connect.  Try as she might to avoid the insurance industry, Whitnee's journey led her to the agency association world.  Lucky for us, she brings a wealth of experience and passion for Diversity & Inclusion to her role at IIABA.  She and her team work diligently to provide resources that help agencies find a starting point with D&I conversation in their organizations and make it a sustainable business objective. I enjoyed diving into this topic with Whitnee and feel like I learned so much in such a short time.  There's a lot to take in with this conversation and I have a feeling we only scratched the surface.   I know that as you listen, you will find that Whitnee inspires you to Liv Louder.    XO, Liv   Connect with Whitnee:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneedillard/ https://www.independentagent.com/default.aspx https://www.independentagent.com/diversity/Pages/InclusiveLeadership/default.aspx    

Episode #5 of Liv Louder is out! This week I get to sit down with Meg McKeen, founder of Adjunct Advisors and host of the Bound & Determined podcast.  I was lucky enough to interview Meg McKeen in March of 2020 just before a pandemic turned our world upside down.  To say lot has changed in the last 15 months is a bit of an understatement and I thought it was time for the two of us to catch up.   This conversation is so rich from beginning to end as we dig deeper into parts of our stories that have shaped us.  Meg is, as always, incredibly vulnerable and transparent as she shares the struggles of her entrepreneurial journey, wrestling with uncertainty, and embracing the "messy middle."   There is so much good stuff in this episode!  I hope you find bits throughout that you relate to.  One thing is for sure, Meg will definitely inspire you to liv louder!   Connect with Meg & learn more about Adjunct Advisors: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megmckeen/ https://www.adjunctadvisors.com/    Check out the Bound & Determined podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1494531636?to=page 

Episode #4 of Liv Louder is OUT! After being in hot pursuit of this girl for over a year, I finally got Krystal to sit down and chat with me on the podcast.  Krystal is an Enterprise AE at Lessonly and a good friend. I was lucky enough to meet Krystal 3 years ago in Cleveland and we instantly clicked.  She has been moving and shaking her way through the insuretech space and now is taking on a new challenge to promote insurance training at Lessonly.   Krystal has this amazing energy about her that you will feel the moment you hear her speak.  She has made risky moves in her career always willing to take that leap.  She is a single mom to a gorgeous boy.  She is a strong believer in self-advocacy, but also doing what she can to support and encourage other moms and all women across the industry.   I have a massive appreciate for who Krystal is, the love she gives and how she's continuing to push the insurance industry forward.  I know she will make you smile and inspire you to liv louder.   Connect with Krystal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystalbonillas/ Learn more about Lessonly: https://www.lessonly.com/features/?link=learn-more   

For this episode, I got to sit down with Emily Gerber Poe...and we talk about everything. Listen in as we chat about: being a female entrepreneur, raising a family and working full time (mom guilt, ugh), why she loves the insurance industry, why women make strong leaders, and how she is supporting women in the workplace.   Emily has incredible energy.  The love she holds for her family, her agency, and her team is abundantly clear throughout this conversation.   She shares a lot of wisdom at every turn in this episode and I know Emily will inspire all of you to liv louder!   Connect with Emily: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-gerber-poe-3a794847/   Learn more about Gerber Insurance: https://gerberinsuranceagency.com/  

This week I had the privilege to sit down with Max Benson, MBE of everywoman. Not only is Max an amazing woman (with a great accent), but she is also the co-founder of an wonderful organization doing tremendous work to support women in the workplace. What was once just an idea between Max and her business partner, has exploded into a global effort with over 35,000 members...and growing. Listen in as we discuss the struggles and setbacks women face when building careers, the impact of the world-changing event on workplaces, and how everywoman provides support to professional women in every industry all over the world. I instantly connected with the mission of everywoman the first time I clicked on their website and this conversation with Max only reinforced (and amplified) all of those feelings. For all of my insurance friends out there, everywoman has you covered with a virtual Insurance Forum coming up September 15th & 16th! I know that it will inspire you to Liv Louder!   Connect with everywoman: https://www.everywoman.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/everywoman-ltd/  max@everywoman.com     

The podcast is BACK! After a few months of downtime, I felt it was time to bring the podcast back. I was lucky enough to sit down with the ridiculously talented, beautiful and insightful women that I work with every day at b atomic. Listen in as dig in with Syd Roe, Carey Wallace, Sarah Applegate, Anna Shaffer, & Mei Wong. This is an incredible conversation about bucking the status quo in insurance, tech, startup and LIFE! I hope this episode inspires all of you to liv a little bit louder!    

This week Olivia welcomes Susan Hatten to the show!Double majoring in apparel merchandising and business marketing, Susan knew her interest was in the branding and creative side of business.  Immediately after graduating, Susan found herself at an advertising agency.  While doing to some searching on her next career opportunity, she connected with Holmes Murphy where she now gets to share her love for community advocacy and insurance innovation! 4:16 – A holiday state of mind16:24 – Her journey to Holmes Murphy & BrokerTech Ventures22:00 – The goals of BrokerTech Ventures30:38 – Creating a Personal Board of Directors39:13 – Advice for her younger self48:00 – The DJ Story…and much, much more! Connect with Susan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shatten55/Check out Holmes Murphy:https://www.holmesmurphy.com/Check out BrokerTech Ventures:https://www.brokertechventures.com/Check out TOTAL CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/  

This week I am excited to bring you another collection of past interviews. This episode is full of amazing wisdom and advice from the incredible women I have had the privilege of interviewing over the last few months.  As I listened back through these interviews, I realized how relevant and timeless their insight is.  While it meant a lot in the moment, the impact it had on me as I put this project together was even more profound.In this episode, you will get to hear from:Billie Jo GalleSarah ApplegateKelly LennonSabrina MoonBecky SchroederArleen TaverasTrisha KrautkramerTracy StanilandKiki JohnsonKari ColmanEmily Mertz Kelly AugspurgerI again sit here astonished at how blessed I am to get to steal time from each of these women and to share this slice of heaven with all of you is indescribable.Be sure to connect with these amazing women!Full interviews can be found here:https://youdontknowschmitt.podbean.comCheck out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Cheri Trites-Versluis to the show!Discovering a love of research and writing while in law school, her skills were a natural match for insurance litigation and dissecting coverage forms.  After building a solid career as an attorney on the carrier side, she made the leap over to RiskGenius in early 2020.  She is now the Director, Policy Analysis & Product at Risk Genius.  5:30 – Why Gen Z will be the most heavily studied generation8:17 – Her journey to RiskGenius17:50 – The importance of building leaders25:00 – The value of “I don’t know”34:00 – The value of confidence in building a career44:00 – Advocating for equal pay for women …and much, much more!! Connect with Cheri:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheri-trites-versluis-1b683b32/Check out TOTAL CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week I welcome Alyssa Hrubes to the show!!Alyssa is a friend, mom, wife and all about safety!  After trying to sort out what she wanted to major in for most of her college career, she fell in love with Safety. After wrapping up her internship she was offered a job in an agency and 17 years later, she has never looked back.  She now provides a wealth of experience and knowledge in her role as a Safety Consultant for TRICOR Insurance.Listen in as Oliva and Alyssa chat about:10:53 – How she ended up in Safety Consulting18:30 – Why she loves agency life24:20 – Biggest life lessons28:45 – People who have impacted her journey38:00 – Dealing with major life events45:00 – Future plans…and much, much more! Connect with Alyssa:https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-hrubes-8905637/ Check out TOTAL CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Sharon Fox to the show!Sharon is a self-proclaimed insurance geek and the Director, Business Development at TrustLayer.  She originally set out to build her career in HR. As she started researching other options outside the HR sector, she discovered insurance and quickly recognized the variety of opportunities the industry had to offer.  Passionate about people, insurance, insuretech, and entrepreneurship, Sharon has found a home for all those passions within insurance. Listen in as Olivia and Sharon talk about: 5:00 – Conference Life 2020: Virtual vs In Person9:03 – Her journey to TrustLayer15:50 – The critical service TrustLayer is providing31:00 – Biggest lessons in her career36:35 – Being the champion of other women …and much, much more! Connect with Sharon:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonlafox/ Learn more about TrustLayer:https://www.linkedin.com/company/trustlayer/https://trustlayer.io/ Check out TOTAL CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Kaylee Chappelow to the show!Kaylee is the Manager of Business Development at Risk Genius.Kaylee is passionate about the insurance industry, personal and professional growth, leadership, workplace diversity and women in business.  And while she may be at the beginning of her career, she brings with her wisdom and insight well beyond her years.  Growing up, she was very active and involved and she has carried those experiences and that enthusiasm into her life and career. Listen in as Olivia and Kaylee discuss: 6:30 – Her journey into the industry and why she loves insurance11:00 – The latest developments at Risk Genius16:35 – Her biggest lessons in life26:03 – The people who have mentored her40:00 – What it means to support women in the workplace53:00 – The power of networking …and much, much more! Connect with Kaylee:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylee-chappelow-214100b1/ Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week’s episode has a little bit different flavor. Instead of fresh new interview, what you will find is a walk down memory lane.  This week, I have collected some of my favorite bits and pieces of interviews from the early part of the season.  There has been so much wisdom shared by amazing women , that I was only able to include outtakes from the first half of the season.In this episode, you will get to hear from:Sydney RoeTracy CottonKelly Donahue-PiroAmber WuolletAsh FitzBobbie ColliesCarey WallaceVonda CopelandCarrie ReynoldsErin NuttingLouise H ReidDani KimbleJanet PaynePatty LaresSuch a tremendous list of women I have had the privilege of interviewing.  And there’s a list just as long on the balance of the season!  I am clearly blessed!Be sure to connect with these amazing women.Full interviews can be found here:https://youdontknowschmitt.podbean.comCheck out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia sits down with Sophie Louise Beynon.Sophie is wife, mother of four, and a Nutrition Coach, International Health Coach, Weight Loss Specialist, Personal Trainer & CEO at Sophie Louise HealthAfter struggling with her own health and wellness at a young age, she invested her energy into finding better balance in her emotional and physical needs and learned to love her body again.  Sophie recognized her passion to help others do the same.  Listen in as Olivia and Sophie chat about: 5:30 – Life in a full house12:00 – Finding her passion19:00 – Decisions vs Discipline27:15 – Loving the skin we’re in31:00 – Balanced nourishment41:00 – Supporting the body’s aging process53:00 – Balancing social media in our lives …and much, much more. Connect with Sophie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-louise-beynon-2993731b2/https://sophielouisehealth.com/https://instagram.com/sophielouise_wellness?igshid=ovaei8dcort0twitter.com/sophielouhealth?s=11 Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes her sister Tena to the show!  And while we were raised in the same house, we could not be more different…Tena is a wife, mom and engineer.  Always very driven, analytical and curious about math and science, she found engineering to be a natural fit.  After graduating in 2001 she landed an opportunity that would allow her to build her engineering career and see the world.  Throughout the last 19 years, she has gotten to live in beautiful places, build and challenger her own leadership skills and find a passion for mentorship.  Listen in as Olivia and Tena chat about: 4:00 – The evolution of our relationship8:00 – Why community matters13:50 – Career & Leadership20:00 – The importance of mentorship29:05 – Advice for her younger self33:00 – The thing we had in common40:00 – Family First57:00 – Letting go of perfectionism …and much, much more. Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia sits down and chats with Katlyn Eggar.Katlyn is a wife, mom of 2 and passionate about helping the insurance industry grow and succeed.  After starting a scratch agency in the Captive world with her husband, Justin, they felt the calling to do something more.  Armed with an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to help their employees achieve their professional goals, Quantum was born in 2019. Listen in as Olivia and Katlyn chat about:4:00 – The homeschool adventure12:00 – The journey from scratch agency to Quantum 19:00 – Katlyn’s mission with Quantum30:06 – People who have impacted her the most35:00 – Discovering her love of entrepreneurship41:00 – Advice for her younger self …and much, much more! Connect with Katlyn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katlyneggar/ Check out Quantum Assurance:https://www.quantumassurance.com/ Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Kelly Augspurger to the show!Kelly is a wife, mom to two wonderful kids and a Producer at Steadfast Insurance in Westerville, OH.  After working in a family business for 12 years, she received an invitation she couldn’t refuse to join the insurance industry.  It didn’t take long for her to realize she found her calling.  She now channels her passion to help others and her love of insurance to work every day in her role at Steadfast. Listen in as Olivia and Kelly chat about: 7:40 – Shout out to the short girls12:37 – Kelly’s journey into insurance18:18 – How life experience adds up22:40 – Finding balance when working with a spouse30:23 – People who have impacted her life38:00 – Future plans…and much, much more!! Connect with Kelly:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-augspurger/Check out Steadfast Insurance:https://www.steadfastagents.com/ Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

After crossing the ½ way point of what I hope will be the first year of the show, I decided the time was right to share my own story.  It is definitely a different feeling to interview myself, in a way, but I had been urged to do this by a few guests, friends and family.  Even knowing the questions and what I wanted to share ahead of time didn’t make it any easier! In this episode, I talk about:2:00 – My insurance journey6:00 – The event that changed everything11:00 – The inspiration behind the show18:30 – Why this podcast means so much to me24:12 – My answers to questions I ask my guests30:24 – The magic outside of our comfort zones…and much, much more!I look forward to bringing you fresh conversations with amazing guests next week!Until then:Connect with me!https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-schmitt-217358104/Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia chats with Emily Mertz.Emily is the Vice President of Marketing at Slice. After interviewing with Slice, Emily dove into the startup culture.  With Slice’s focus on improving the insurance experience with technology, Emily helps companies promote their innovation within the market. Listen in as Olivia and Emily chat about:9:00 – Her journey to slice14:20 – What is a Hackathon?17:02 – The learning process20:00 – Lessons from Grandma26:00 – Promoting women in insurance32:20 – Making memories with her son…and much, much more! Connect with Emily:https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-mertz-30b8521/Learn more about Slice:https://www.slice.is/Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Kari Colman to the show.Kari is the Brand Manager and Operations Manager at Hitchings Insurance Agency.  After building careers in two other professions, Kari was faced with an important decision about creating the lifestyle she really wanted for herself and her family.  Passionate about people, community and helping others continue to grow, she found a role that allows her to pursue all those things every day. Listen in as Olivia and Kari talk about: 5:40 – Finding Flexibility12:30 – Her journey to an independent agency21:11 - Why relationships matter27:05 – Life lessons35:00 – Advice for her younger self43:00 – Loving what you do48:30 – The importance of staying connected…and much, much more! Connect with Kari:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kari-colman-06069317a/Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Kiki Johnson to the show.Kiki is the Co-Founder of The Insurance App in sunny NC!  Shortly after graduating she embarked on her first entrepreneurial adventure.  She then moved onto the financial and securities business sector before getting into mobile app development.  During this time, a close call with her business partner highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to connect policy holders with their policy information.  She continues to provide technology solutions that help connect all parts of the insurance channel.   Listen in as Olivia and Kiki talk about: 5:30 – The impact of COVID on our kids9:00 – The importance of flexibility in business12:30 – The moment that inspired The Insurance App17:30 – Creating the right client experience21:53 – Biggest lessons in life30:35 – Abandoning Perfection38:50 – Why the insurance industry is the best44:00 – Letting kids learn through failure…and much, much more! Connect with Kiki:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiki-johnson/ Learn more about The Insurance Agent App:https://insuranceagentapp.com/ Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Tracy Staniland to the show.Tracy is the Head of Marketing at Chisel AI.  Throughout her career she has served the industry on the tech vendor side. After studying marketing in college, she found herself taking a job in the technology world.  By leveraging her prior experience and connecting with others in the company, she was able to establish herself in a marketing position.  As she continued to develop her career, she took on positions at different tech startups.  Intrigued by the ongoing growth of technology in the insurance space, she saw AI as the next step in her insuretech career.Listen in as Olivia and Tracy Talk about:7:00 – Her journey into Insuretech18:35 – Biggest career lessons23:34 – The value of being challenged30:00 – Highlighting other women35:09 – Advice for her younger self…and much, much more! Connect with Tracy:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracystaniland/Chisel AI – Women in Insurance:https://www.chisel.ai/blog/tag/women-in-insurance Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Trisha Krautkramer to the show.Trisha is the General Manger of Branding - Acuity, A Mutual Insurance Company in Sheboygan, WI.  After earning a degree in International Business & Marketing, she began her career in advertising in the early years of digital marketing, later pivoting to a role in the data and analytics of marketing.  She now taps the experience and skills of all her prior roles in her work at Acuity. Listen in as Olivia and Trisha chat about: 10:15 – Her journey to Acuity18:30 – What life is like at Acuity25:00 – The balancing act of client engagement31:20 – The Power of Perspective39:50 – The challenges of leadership45:00 – Creating the Right Experience …and much, much more! Connect with Trisha:https://www.linkedin.com/in/trishakrautkramer/ Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia sits down with Arleen Taveras.  Arleen is the President & CEO of Insurance Licensing Services of America & Co-Host of the SpotOn Insurance Podcast.  Seeking advancement opportunities early in her career, she earned her Risk Management Degree and took a new position handling licensing and regulatory compliance.   After working a few years in a bogged-down, paper-heavy processes, she recognized the automation gap in her work and the idea for ILSA was born!Now employing 55 people, they have continued to evolve and add services to help carriers and brokers manage the licensing process better and faster. Join Olivia and Arleen as they talk about: 5:00 – Arleen’s journey to ILSA11:15 – Hiring individuals with different strengths16:00 – Weathering economic downturn as a business owner22:45 – People who made an impact on her life33:00 – Advice for her younger self34:00 – Maturity over age…and much, much more!! Connect with Arleen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arleen-taveras-arm/ILSA:   https://www.ilsainc.com/SpotOn Insurance Podcast: https://spotoninsurance.com/ Check out Total CSR: https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia catches up with Bobbie Shrivastav, the Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Benekiva. During a chance introduction with a start-up in Iowa, they recognized the many pain points of the life and health insurance claims process.  After some discussion, Bobbie, along side her husband, Soven  and business partner, Brent,  set out to do something about it and Benekiva was born.  Listen in as Olivia and Bobbie Chat about: 6:00 – Making lemons out of lemonade13:50 – Jumping into entrepreneurship17:00 – The story behind “Benekiva”24:00 – Creating solutions that enhance the experience35:00 – Moving past Imposter Syndrome50:00 – Showing up for other women56:00 – Funding Change…and much, much more. Connect with Bobbie: LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbieshrivastav/Twitter:https://twitter.com/bshrivastavBenekiva  website:http://www.benekiva.com/ Check out Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

In Episode #20, Olivia catches up with Becky Schroeder.Becky is Chief Marketing Officer at Insurance Technologies Corporation.  After shifting her emphasis in college, earning her Masters and working in a few different roles for various firms, she found her love for marketing.  She continues to share that love every day driving creativity and innovation at ITC.In this episode Olivia & Becky chat about:9:00 – Team building During Covid-1916:00 – The steps that led her to ITC21:00 – Scaling with people and creativity27:30 – Lessons learned from Dad29:30 – Making first impressions at ITC42:20 – Raising future leaders…and much, much more! Be sure to connect with Becky:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckyschroeder/Twitter: https://twitter.com/beckylschroederPodcast: https://www.insurancehappyhour.com/ Check out Total CSR: https://www.totalcsr.com/

Sabrina is the Founder & CEO of the Problem Solving Institute and a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator.While building a career in engineering with companies like GM and Amtrak, a friend recommended Brené Brown’s work.  Sabrina immediately embraced all she was learning and applying it at work.  Recognizing the growing need for leadership coaching, Sabrina started the Problem Solving Institute and continues to help leaders become more vulnerable, empathetic and “embrace the suck.” This week, Olivia and Sabrina talk about: 5:30 – Her journey from engineering to leadership coaching17:40 – The need for connection and vulnerability21:12 – Creating space for grief27:30 – Why she loves anger34:30 – Why vulnerability is critical to business46:12 – Giving ourselves permission53:20 – Her future outreach projects…and much, much more. To Connect with Sabrina and learn more about her work:Visit her website:www.problemsi.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinamoon/ Check out Total CSR:www.totalcsr.com 

This week Olivia welcomes Kelly Lennon to the show!Kelly is the Vice President, Commercial Risk Advisor at USI Insurance.  She has had an incredible journey from her first exposure to the insurance industry to the role that she is in now.  Her energy and passion for life, the industry, family and supporting other women are clear throughout this conversation. In this episode, Olivia and Kelly chat about:3:00 – Life in New York during a pandemic16:00 – Where her insurance journey started21:41 – Taking on new challenges27:00 – How her mom has inspired her31:55 - The importance of Women supporting women39:00 – Her big goals at USI41:26 – Her other passions in life…and much, much more!Be sure to connect with Kelly:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennonkelly/Twitter:https://twitter.com/KellyLennonNY Learn more about Total CSR:https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Sarah Applegate to the show! Sarah’s career in the insurance industry has led her to roles on both the agency and carrier side.  As her career evolved, Sarah found herself in conversations with many agencies and quickly recognized common struggles.  Led by curiosity, she started to dig into the “how” and “why” behind data, how it impacts an organization and how agencies can manage it more efficiently.  She now shares that insight with agencies across the country looking for solutions.Listen in as Olivia and Sarah discuss:6:00 – Biggest lesson in her career10:30 – Leadership, Strengths & Weaknesses14:38 – The power of vulnerability and collaboration21:17 – Using automation to eliminate limitations28:30 – Why we all need to stay curious35:15 – Getting perspective on operations45:12 – Advice for her younger self…and much, much more!Connect with Sarah:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahapplegate/Twitter:@RosyAppleg8 Check out Total CSR at:https://www.totalcsr.com/

In this week’s show, Olivia welcomes Billie Jo Galle to the show.  Billie is a wife, a mom and the Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at TRICOR Insurance. Billie’s interest in marketing and consumer data began while working in a corporate marketing department in college.  She has continued to dig in and learn about the importance of data and puts that knowledge to work every day in her role at TRICOR.In this episode, Olivia and Billie discuss:6:45 – The silver lining of COVID-1912:40 - How COVID changed the way we work17:30 – Her first exposure to data and customer experience24:50 – Finding the right culture fit in a job35:00 – The importance of learning and collaboration43:01 – Developing leadership in others47:45 – Using data to become more effective…and much much more. Connect with Billie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/billiejogalle/ Check us out at: totalcsr.com

This week, Olivia welcomes to the show, Patty Lares. Patty is the Principal of AA Lares Insurance in Orange, CA.  She has a huge heart for insurance and leadership.  Patty’s journey in insurance is definitely one of perseverance.  Needing to find a job and support herself, Patty started her first job at an insurance agency at a VERY young age.  Fueled by determination, she has continued to grow her career and is now celebrating 20 years of owning her own agency.In this episode, Olivia and Patty chat about:3:41 – The importance of leadership during tough times11:15 – The power of influence19:30 – Her journey into insurance24:30 – The gift of quitting34:00 – The person who has impacted her life42:15 – Shutting off self-limiting beliefs…and so much more!Be sure to connect with Patty!https://www.linkedin.com/in/patty-lares-87626913/https://laresinsurance.com/

This week Olivia welcomes Janet Payne to the show!  Janet is the co-owner of TrustPoint Insurance & Real Estate in Burlington, KSJanet's path to the insurance industry was not intentional - similar to what many of us have experienced.  Her heart set on a career in real estate, she soon found herself diving into insurance.  She quickly recognized how amazing the industry is.She is passionate about how rewarding a career in insurance can be and dedicated to helping bring the next generation of agents into the industry!In this episode Olivia and Janet chat about:4:30 – Managing operations from home during COVID-1911:00 – The real reason she got her insurance license and what reeled her in17:00 – Her biggest life lessons22:50 – The most influential people in her life28:00 – Why “opposites attract” works in business31:45 – How we attract the next generation of insurance professionals41:40 – Advice for her younger self…and much much more! Make sure to connect with Janet:https://www.trustpointinsurance.net/https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-payne-b8a77834/ Learn more about Total CSR at: https://www.totalcsr.com/

This week Olivia catches up with Dani Kimble.  She is proud wife, mom of 3 and the Chief Marketing Officer for O'Neill Insurance.Once a dance instructor, Dani found herself applying for a job at a local insurance agency almost 4 years ago and instantly fell in love with the culture.  Not only does she have killer dance moves, but she now channels that creativity once focused on telling a story through choreography into telling the story of O'Neill Insurance through brilliant marketing campaigns.In this episode, Olivia and Dani chat about:4:00 - Mommin' it up in Quarantine11:40 - What led her to insurance21:15 - The person who has impacted her life the most26:30 - Her biggest life lesson30:10 - Painting the picture of women in insurance leadership37:35 - Advice for her younger self46:20 - Her walk-up song...and much, much more.Be sure to connect with Dani on LinkedIn and follow her work:https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellekimble/

This week Olivia catches up with Louise H Reid. She is a Chief Empowerment Officer & Leadership Consultant.  The mission of her work is to “build better lives by elevating women and humanizing workplaces.”   She lives this every day through her consulting and coaching work.  She is also a speaker, writer (book #1 coming soon!) and host of the Louise H. Reid Show – a podcast highlighting inspiring people and sharing their stories with others.This week Olivia and Louise chat about: 11:00 – Louise’s Core Values16:00 – How she developed her coaching practice26:00 – The importance of building a tribe31:22 – Setting every day up for success36:57 – The question she asks herself every morning44:15 – The importance of tuning in to your inner voice50:40 – Changing the conversation and raising feminists57:30 – The “Bridge of Discomfort” and assuming positive intent…and so much more! You can connect with Louise at:https://www.louisehreid.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisehreid/https://twitter.com/louisehreid

This week, Olivia welcomes Erin Nutting to the show!  Erin is the owner of Integrity Insurance Services and Arizona Wedding Insurance in Tucson, AZ.  She is a proud mom, fiancé, business owner and cross-fit enthusiast.  Her career in insurance began 15 years ago with her first job cold-calling for captive agencies before opening her own agency.   She loves the industry and uses her energy and creativity not only to build her own business, but to help others in their journey as well. Join Erin and Olivia as they discuss:7:45 – Her 90 day marketing plan – it’s bananas10:00 – How her fiancé popped the question17:06 – Her tip for all parents25:30 – Her ultimate hype song27:15 – The accident that impacted her insurance career37:18 – Why she chooses tactical over motivational39:27 – How we encourage others to grow in their careers46:02 – Why Airport Rules Apply52:40 – The importance of being stillAnd so much more!You can connect with Erin at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinnutting/https://instagram.com/integrity_hq?igshid=a5thhhsn43n8https://arizonaweddinginsurance.com/https://integrityinsure.com/

This week Olivia catches up with Carrie Reynolds.  Carrie is the owner of Alan Galvez Insurance in Bellefontaine, OH. Carrie is a respected leader in her agency as well as a mom to two great kids.  She is passionate about the insurance industry and shows this not just in her day to day work with employees and clients, but also in the relationships she has built with other agents across the country.Join Olivia and Carrie as they talk about:4:05 – The importance of grace and understanding8:45 - Carrie’s mantra while dealing with life in a pandemic12:40 – Her journey in the insurance industry21:00 – The critical element to preparing employees and customers for change27:56 – The one piece of advice she would give everyone36:30 – Her IAOA ExperienceAnd much, much more!You can connect with Carrie on:LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieareynolds/Twitter - https://twitter.com/carrie_AGInsOnline - https://www.galvezinsurance.com/            http://carrieareynolds.com/

This week Olivia catches up with Vonda Copeland.  Vonda is the Vice President of Copeland Insurance and Co-Owner of Custom Harvest Insurance. Copeland Insurance is family owned agency spanning nine locations in Kansas.  Vonda may have taken a bit of winding road into insurance, but has created a rewarding career in the industry.  In this episode Olivia and Vonda chat about:2:45 – Her Path into Insurance7:50 – Why she embraces change14:38 – Keeping people connected across distance19:35 – Biggest career lesson26:20 – The women who have impacted her life and career29:00 – How the industry can encourage women in leadership34:30 – The challenge she’s given herself for the futureAnd much, much more!

This week Olivia catches up with Carey Wallace.  Carey is the Chief Innovation Officer at Ohio Insurance Agents and the CEO of IntellAgents, LLC.  Carey does incredible work helping insurance agents across the country understand their data and put it to work for them so they can create innovative solutions and achieve great results.  In this episode Olivia and Carey chat about:5:07 - Making memories with family during quarantine13:10 - The services and resources they are providing to agents during the pandemic17:43 - Helping agents strategize beyond the crisis24:35 - The pause in her career that taught her about renegotiating29:22 - The importance of owning your journey38:40 - The volunteer work that has changed her lifeAnd so much more! Connect with Carrie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/carey-wallace-393a8620/http://www.ohioinsuranceagents.com/   

This week Olivia welcomes Bobbie Collies to the podcast.  Bobbie is the VP of Strategic Distribution at Grange Insurance.  Bobbie’s career in insurance started fresh out of college in an underwriting position which led her into leadership, marketing and her current role with Grange. Join Olivia and Bobbie as they chat about:4:46 – How her new role combines professional development, excitement and vulnerability10:58 – The most exciting thing she’s seeing in the industry right now18:38 – Mom life, working from home and self-isolation23:52 – Biggest Life Lesson30:33 – Encouraging women in leadership34:40 – The importance of knowing when to slow downAnd so much more!Connect with Bobbie on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiecollies/ 

In Episode #6 of You Don't Know Schmitt! Olivia catches up with Ashley Fitzsimmons.  Ash is the Customer Experience Manager at Ohio Insurance Agents (OIA) and also known as The Beyoncé of Insurance.  Ashley started out her career in a family agency before making the leap over to OIA where she gets to share her passion for insurance and all the people that make up this amazing industry.Join Olivia and Ash as they talk about:3:52 – How she became the Beyonce of Insurance5:48 – Leaving the family agency to go to Ohio Insurance Agents10:35 – Her love for bringing insurance professionals together17:45 – Networking during Quarantine25:37 – Her advice to women across the insurance industry33:11 – What she loves about her role and OIAAnd so much more!! Connect with Ash:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashfitz/ https://twitter.com/ashhfitz

On this week's episode Olivia gets to nerd out with Amber Wuollet.  Amber is the Director of Marketing for Bold Penguin AND self-proclaimed Nerdiest Insurance Nerd!  Amber found a passion early on in her insurance career and brings that energy to everything she does whether at work for Bold Penguin or creating content for InsNerds.In this episode Olivia and Amber dive into life and career:8:30 - Why she fell in love with insurance early in her career11:55 - Connecting with Bold Penguin17:00 - The importance of creating a nurturing community in the insurance industry22:45 - How leaders in her life have shaped her career29:30 - The value of having a solid network36:30 - The lessons that can be found in uncomfortable momentsAnd much, much more!Connect with Amber on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-wuollet/       

This week Olivia catches up with Kelly Donahue-Piro of Agency Performance Partners and Agency Appeal.  Kelly does incredible work with agents across the country advising them on improvements they can make in their operations to go from great to "Ridiculously Amazing."  Her goal is to help every one of her agency partners drive toward success.In this episode, Olivia and Kelly talk about owning your career, including: 8:55 - If Kelly won the lottery, what would she do?15:07 - Flipping the dynamic in insurance for women24:35 - Finding her way into entrepreneurship 29:21 - The importance of owning your career36:55 - What Kelly would tell her younger self43:30 - Her advice to other women in the industry...and so much more! You can connect with Kelly and learn more the work she is doing by visiting:https://www.agencyperformancepartners.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydonahuepiro/https://twitter.com/kldonahue  

This week Olivia gets to do a little guest/host collaboration with Meg McKeen.  Meg is the Founder and Chief Confidence Builder of Adjunct Advisors.  After a brief sabbatical from the insurance industry, Meg launched Adjunct Advisors in 2018 with the goal of helping insurance sales professionals grow successful careers.  She brings her expertise from her time working in both an independent agency and carrier underwriting.  Tune in to this episode to hear about Meg's 20+ year insurance journey and her next adventures:5:41 - How your past prepares you for your future14:25 - Finding her calling30:00 - Her next mission44:12 - Lattice over Ladder52:45 - The importance of self-careAnd so much more!You can learn more about Meg and Adjunct Advisors at: https://www.adjunctadvisors.com/And be sure to get your tickets for Elevate 2020 at https://www.elevateconference.com/page/1411476/register.Use discount code TOTALCSR-100 for $100 off your ticket! 

This week Olivia gets to catch up with Tracy Cotton, a niche agent at Morrow Insurance in Marion, North Carolina.  Tracy’s career in insurance has included different roles on both the carrier and agency side.  She has pulled all that experience and perspective together and used it to help her create her favorite role yet as a “Farm to Fork Insurance Agent.” In this episode you will get to know Tracy and her journey including:4:44 - How Tracy got her start in insurance11:16 - What she loves about the “Farm to Fork” agent life27:00 - How Tracy celebrated turning 5037:35 - Her thoughts on dating in your 50s46:00 – How she has created her dream job in insuranceI can’t wait for you all to get a chance to know a little bit more about Tracy!