Podcast appearances and mentions of Eric Stein

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 3 Watch the podcast on YouTube! Big Brother 28 ramps up the drama as alliances and rivalries shape eviction week 3 in the house. Host Rob Cesternino welcomes guest Eric Stein for a Summer of Stein packed with analysis, funny moments, and a look at the shifting power structure after a week of surprising moves and classic Big Brother chaos. This episode dives into Kamu's controversial HoH reign, including the fallout from Mallory's now-infamous tea party and the big house meeting that turned a social gathering into a tense showdown. With Jason fighting back against isolation, banging pots and spilling the tea on Kamu's alliances, and the looming threat of Rick Devens' Diamond Power of Veto, the house is caught in a spiral of shifting loyalties and public confrontations. Eric breaks down why following the HoH's wishes is overrated, questions the impact of the “house” mentality, and highlights the missed opportunity to use power moves when the majority is firmly in control. Social dynamics get dissected as Lyric's nomination approach stands out, Drew and Barrett's swing-vote role comes under fire, and Lala's infamous bacon-wrapped cream of mushroom soup bites generate laughs and concern about house cooking politics. Eric Stein points out that the HoH shouldn't control the house post-veto and calls the current group's deference “feckless” gameplay. Rob Cesternino highlights Drew and Barrett's crucial role as potential swing votes and expresses frustration at their choices. Eric critiques the Have-Not twist as outdated and useless, wishing production would drop it unless it actually impacts the game. Both discuss how the majority alliance keeps stacking power thanks to Rick Devens' Diamond Power of Veto, making it harder for the outsiders. The hosts compare Mallory to past houseguests like Michelle Noonan and note her boldness and potential if she gains power. With Mallory and Jason on the block and the outsiders struggling to make a dent in the majority alliance, the house's future could hinge on one big move or surprise flip. Will anyone in the middle make a stand, or will the Icons and their allies keep holding the reins? Hear all the strategy, laughs, and inside stories by listening to the full episode. Chapters: 00:00 Big Brother theme song and intros 03:02 Path to Big Brother Unlocked feature 07:13 Drew and Julie: Eviction vote drama 11:09 Mallory's tea party confrontations 15:25 “Lame duck” HOH game shift 19:10 Jason's tea kettle rebellion 24:33 Have-Nots: Purpose and impact in BB 30:57 Diamond Power of Veto shakes house 41:16 WrestleGasm ‘85 competition arrives 48:12 Yash Patel's standout BB28 haircut 54:03 Lala's bacon-wrapped soup divides house 59:02 Lyric and Kamu: Showmance rumors 01:04:16 Outsiders struggle against BB28 majority 01:10:48 Swing votes: Drew and Barrett waver 01:14:20 BB28 Jason quotes game 01:31:07 Cooking disaster: Cream of mushroom finale Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Big Brother coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 3 Watch the podcast on YouTube! Big Brother 28 ramps up the drama as alliances and rivalries shape eviction week 3 in the house. Host Rob Cesternino welcomes guest Eric Stein for a Summer of Stein packed with analysis, funny moments, and a look at the shifting power structure after a week of surprising moves and classic Big Brother chaos. This episode dives into Kamu's controversial HoH reign, including the fallout from Mallory's now-infamous tea party and the big house meeting that turned a social gathering into a tense showdown. With Jason fighting back against isolation, banging pots and spilling the tea on Kamu's alliances, and the looming threat of Rick Devens' Diamond Power of Veto, the house is caught in a spiral of shifting loyalties and public confrontations. Eric breaks down why following the HoH's wishes is overrated, questions the impact of the “house” mentality, and highlights the missed opportunity to use power moves when the majority is firmly in control. Social dynamics get dissected as Lyric's nomination approach stands out, Drew and Barrett's swing-vote role comes under fire, and Lala's infamous bacon-wrapped cream of mushroom soup bites generate laughs and concern about house cooking politics. Eric Stein points out that the HoH shouldn't control the house post-veto and calls the current group's deference “feckless” gameplay. Rob Cesternino highlights Drew and Barrett's crucial role as potential swing votes and expresses frustration at their choices. Eric critiques the Have-Not twist as outdated and useless, wishing production would drop it unless it actually impacts the game. Both discuss how the majority alliance keeps stacking power thanks to Rick Devens' Diamond Power of Veto, making it harder for the outsiders. The hosts compare Mallory to past houseguests like Michelle Noonan and note her boldness and potential if she gains power. With Mallory and Jason on the block and the outsiders struggling to make a dent in the majority alliance, the house's future could hinge on one big move or surprise flip. Will anyone in the middle make a stand, or will the Icons and their allies keep holding the reins? Hear all the strategy, laughs, and inside stories by listening to the full episode. Chapters: 00:00 Big Brother theme song and intros 03:02 Path to Big Brother Unlocked feature 07:13 Drew and Julie: Eviction vote drama 11:09 Mallory's tea party confrontations 15:25 “Lame duck” HOH game shift 19:10 Jason's tea kettle rebellion 24:33 Have-Nots: Purpose and impact in BB 30:57 Diamond Power of Veto shakes house 41:16 WrestleGasm ‘85 competition arrives 48:12 Yash Patel's standout BB28 haircut 54:03 Lala's bacon-wrapped soup divides house 59:02 Lyric and Kamu: Showmance rumors 01:04:16 Outsiders struggle against BB28 majority 01:10:48 Swing votes: Drew and Barrett waver 01:14:20 BB28 Jason quotes game 01:31:07 Cooking disaster: Cream of mushroom finale Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Big Brother coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 2 Watch this podcast on YouTube! Big Brother 28 goes full mayhem inside and outside the house as Summer of Stein returns, hosted by Rob with guest Eric Stein for an all-access recap. The house sits on edge after a unanimous 14-0 vote sends Ashley home, only for Rick Devens to win HoH and deliver what might be the wildest nomination ceremony yet. While the house blows up on the live feeds, the alumni start their own battles online, creating non-stop drama for fans and former houseguests alike. This episode dives into the chaotic nomination fallout, with Angela donning the egg costume punishment and getting into a heated showdown with Jason. Eric and Rob hash out whether Angela rehearsed her performance and why the rarely seen live feed moment during nominations amped up the tension. Meanwhile, the vets and newbies scramble as Rome's unpredictable gameplay and his partnership with Lyric shake up the pecking order, blurring alliance lines and sparking hilarious and tense diary room moments. Eric points out Angela's factual takedown of Jason and wonders if nomination speeches are now play-acted for the camera. Rob notes the live feeds returning mid-ceremony as a shocking boost for fans and a rare production slip. Eric reflects on alumni fights, saying the show's environment and social media draw out lingering rivalries every season. Both discuss if Rome's exit would help or hurt the reset against the vets, and debate the future for Rome, Lyric, and their influencer ambitions. With returnees wielding early power but newbies stirring the pot, Summer of Stein asks: can the underdogs disrupt the veteran alliance or is a steamroll inevitable? Get the full breakdown of every punchline and power move in this week's Summer of Stein! Chapters: 00:00 Summer of Stein kicks off 04:00 Chaos erupts in Big Brother house 07:45 Craziest nomination ceremony debate 12:26 Live feeds reveal BB28 drama 15:42 Haley's missing Big Brother moment 21:07 Angela's egg costume spotlight 25:38 Rome's meltdown shakes the house 34:46 Showmances and danger in BB28 38:11 Lyric's potential as BB28 legend 44:39 Alumni drama rocks Big Brother 56:17 BB28 fandom and fallout moments 59:04 Rick Devens faces Adam Sandler dig 01:01:05 Ashley's lettuce story in BB28 01:08:21 Don't Forget the Lyric game 01:18:11 BB28 time capsule and wrap-up Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Big Brother coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 2 Watch this podcast on YouTube! Big Brother 28 goes full mayhem inside and outside the house as Summer of Stein returns, hosted by Rob with guest Eric Stein for an all-access recap. The house sits on edge after a unanimous 14-0 vote sends Ashley home, only for Rick Devens to win HoH and deliver what might be the wildest nomination ceremony yet. While the house blows up on the live feeds, the alumni start their own battles online, creating non-stop drama for fans and former houseguests alike. This episode dives into the chaotic nomination fallout, with Angela donning the egg costume punishment and getting into a heated showdown with Jason. Eric and Rob hash out whether Angela rehearsed her performance and why the rarely seen live feed moment during nominations amped up the tension. Meanwhile, the vets and newbies scramble as Rome's unpredictable gameplay and his partnership with Lyric shake up the pecking order, blurring alliance lines and sparking hilarious and tense diary room moments. Eric points out Angela's factual takedown of Jason and wonders if nomination speeches are now play-acted for the camera. Rob notes the live feeds returning mid-ceremony as a shocking boost for fans and a rare production slip. Eric reflects on alumni fights, saying the show's environment and social media draw out lingering rivalries every season. Both discuss if Rome's exit would help or hurt the reset against the vets, and debate the future for Rome, Lyric, and their influencer ambitions. With returnees wielding early power but newbies stirring the pot, Summer of Stein asks: can the underdogs disrupt the veteran alliance or is a steamroll inevitable? Get the full breakdown of every punchline and power move in this week's Summer of Stein! Chapters: 00:00 Summer of Stein kicks off 04:00 Chaos erupts in Big Brother house 07:45 Craziest nomination ceremony debate 12:26 Live feeds reveal BB28 drama 15:42 Haley's missing Big Brother moment 21:07 Angela's egg costume spotlight 25:38 Rome's meltdown shakes the house 34:46 Showmances and danger in BB28 38:11 Lyric's potential as BB28 legend 44:39 Alumni drama rocks Big Brother 56:17 BB28 fandom and fallout moments 59:04 Rick Devens faces Adam Sandler dig 01:01:05 Ashley's lettuce story in BB28 01:08:21 Don't Forget the Lyric game 01:18:11 BB28 time capsule and wrap-up Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Big Brother coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 1 Big Brother 28 is off to a wild start as personalities clash and old-school gameplay energy fills the house. The long-awaited Summer of Stein returns as Rob Cesternino and Eric Stein break down the first week's twists, social shifts, and big character moments. It's only one week in, but the house is buzzing with bold personalities and unpredictable dynamics. A new time-travel themed table from “Meow Meow Industries” kicks things off, and everyone's still talking about the season's out-there premiere where Rachel Riley got pushed into a volcano by a velociraptor. Angela deals with the aftermath of the first twist, while Ashley's surprising burger moment becomes a running joke. Multiple showmances are brewing already. Rome and Lyric jump in fast, while Barrett and Dee spark talk with their closeness. Meanwhile, Jason's strategic move targeting Angela (even invoking his own family in the process) has fans debating what kind of villainy is in play this season. The hosts also discuss how houseguests like Devens and Dee are adapting to Big Brother versus Survivor gameplay, and there's plenty of fun about house guest cameos, reality cruises, and fan service with returning icons like Howie and Dr. Will. Eric Stein points out the rush to the season's first showmance with Rome and Lyric, noting how quickly things are escalating. Rob Cesternino breaks down the Jason vs. Angela tension, where Jason claims Angela as a “house mom” while plotting against her. The time-travel table and Meow Meow Industries' twist brings campy energy to the game, which Eric Stein praises for shaking up the usual formula. Ashley finally tries a burger for the first time on camera, leading to laughs and strategizing about “plot armor” and timing. Julie Chen's public commentary on Devens's gameplay versus Dee's quick adaptation from Survivor stirs debate about who really “gets” Big Brother. With alliances starting to form, showmances heating up, and strategic big swings already underway, will this set the tone for a season packed with true villains and game-shakers? Tune in to see if these houseguests stick to their stories and which bold moves will pay off down the line. Listen now for the full Big Brother 28 week one breakdown! Chapters: 00:00 Big Brother 28 Summer of Stein Begins 06:26 Parasite Panic in the BB House 11:11 Enzo's Time Travelling Table Reveal 16:01 Rachel's Volcano Exit Shocks BB 23:02 Ashley Trail's Burger Confession 28:42 Legendary Big Brother Cruises Exposed 34:06 Howie Returns as Future Host 43:39 Dr. Will's Wiltox Invasion 47:40 Showmances Ignite in Big Brother 28 56:45 Jason's Villainous BB Game Play 01:03:21 Julie Critiques Survivor Crossovers 01:07:11 Ashley's Live Feeds Discovery 01:18:04 Fan Mail and Rapid Fire Round 01:23:15 Final Thoughts on Big Brother 28 Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Big Brother coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 1 Big Brother 28 is off to a wild start as personalities clash and old-school gameplay energy fills the house. The long-awaited Summer of Stein returns as Rob Cesternino and Eric Stein break down the first week's twists, social shifts, and big character moments. It's only one week in, but the house is buzzing with bold personalities and unpredictable dynamics. A new time-travel themed table from “Meow Meow Industries” kicks things off, and everyone's still talking about the season's out-there premiere where Rachel Riley got pushed into a volcano by a velociraptor. Angela deals with the aftermath of the first twist, while Ashley's surprising burger moment becomes a running joke. Multiple showmances are brewing already. Rome and Lyric jump in fast, while Barrett and Dee spark talk with their closeness. Meanwhile, Jason's strategic move targeting Angela (even invoking his own family in the process) has fans debating what kind of villainy is in play this season. The hosts also discuss how houseguests like Devens and Dee are adapting to Big Brother versus Survivor gameplay, and there's plenty of fun about house guest cameos, reality cruises, and fan service with returning icons like Howie and Dr. Will. Eric Stein points out the rush to the season's first showmance with Rome and Lyric, noting how quickly things are escalating. Rob Cesternino breaks down the Jason vs. Angela tension, where Jason claims Angela as a “house mom” while plotting against her. The time-travel table and Meow Meow Industries' twist brings campy energy to the game, which Eric Stein praises for shaking up the usual formula. Ashley finally tries a burger for the first time on camera, leading to laughs and strategizing about “plot armor” and timing. Julie Chen's public commentary on Devens's gameplay versus Dee's quick adaptation from Survivor stirs debate about who really “gets” Big Brother. With alliances starting to form, showmances heating up, and strategic big swings already underway, will this set the tone for a season packed with true villains and game-shakers? Tune in to see if these houseguests stick to their stories and which bold moves will pay off down the line. Listen now for the full Big Brother 28 week one breakdown! Chapters: 00:00 Big Brother 28 Summer of Stein Begins 06:26 Parasite Panic in the BB House 11:11 Enzo's Time Travelling Table Reveal 16:01 Rachel's Volcano Exit Shocks BB 23:02 Ashley Trail's Burger Confession 28:42 Legendary Big Brother Cruises Exposed 34:06 Howie Returns as Future Host 43:39 Dr. Will's Wiltox Invasion 47:40 Showmances Ignite in Big Brother 28 56:45 Jason's Villainous BB Game Play 01:03:21 Julie Critiques Survivor Crossovers 01:07:11 Ashley's Live Feeds Discovery 01:18:04 Fan Mail and Rapid Fire Round 01:23:15 Final Thoughts on Big Brother 28 Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Big Brother coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, Eric Stein sits down with David Prejeant, Vice President of Client Relations at Alacrity Solutions, to discuss one of the fastest-growing challenges facing the insurance industry: AI-powered fraud. With more than two decades of experience in claims operations, property adjusting, catastrophe response, and commercial claims management, David shares firsthand insights into how artificial intelligence is changing the way insurers, MGAs, MGUs, carriers, and claims professionals evaluate risk and investigate claims. The conversation explores how AI can be used to create convincing but fraudulent documentation, including weather reports, business interruption records, loss histories, and other claim-related materials. Eric and David discuss the growing need for new fraud detection strategies, enhanced adjuster training, and AI-powered verification tools that can help insurers identify inconsistencies before fraudulent claims are paid. They also examine how organizations can use AI responsibly to improve claims handling, streamline data analysis, connect fragmented systems, and provide better information to underwriters and clients. If you're interested in claims management, insurance fraud prevention, underwriting, AI-powered analytics, risk management, or the future of insurance operations, this episode offers valuable insights into both the opportunities and risks that AI brings to the industry. #InsuranceShopTalk #InsuranceFraud #ArtificialIntelligence #ClaimsManagement #Insurtech #Underwriting #RiskManagement #PropertyClaims #CommercialInsurance #ClaimsTechnology

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, Eric Stein sits down with Jake Cash, founder of CynrX Group and former marketing leader at GEICO, to discuss what insurance agencies need to do to grow in today's rapidly changing marketing environment. Drawing from his experience managing large-scale insurance marketing campaigns and helping hundreds of agencies grow their books of business, Jake shares practical insights on lead generation, marketing systems, retention, automation, and the growing role of AI in agency operations. The conversation dives into how agencies can create more sustainable growth by reducing dependence on any one carrier, producer, vendor, platform, or marketing channel. Eric and Jake also discuss the importance of backend automations, speed-to-lead, differentiated messaging, retention strategy, and how AI tools are helping agencies streamline content, communication, and operational workflows without losing the human element that clients still expect. If you're an agency owner looking to improve your marketing strategy, modernize your processes, and build a more resilient business, this episode is packed with actionable ideas and practical takeaways. #InsuranceShopTalk #InsuranceMarketing #CommercialInsurance #AgencyGrowth #Insurtech #AIinInsurance #LeadGeneration #InsuranceAgency #DigitalMarketing #InsuranceSales

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein sits down with James Benham, founder of JBK and Terra, host of the InsureTech Geek Podcast, and a longtime technology leader in the insurance industry. James shares insights from more than two decades building software, claims systems, underwriting platforms, and automation tools for carriers, TPAs, MGAs, and brokers across the insurance ecosystem. The conversation dives into how AI is transforming insurance operations, underwriting, claims management, and data analysis, while also addressing the challenges agencies and MGAs face with legacy systems, workflow automation, and implementation strategy. Eric and James discuss practical ways insurance professionals can start leveraging AI tools today, where machine learning and predictive analytics are headed next, and why agents who take the time to deeply understand these technologies will have a major advantage moving forward. If you're interested in the future of insurance technology, AI, underwriting, claims, automation, or operational strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical takeaways. #InsuranceShopTalk #Insurtech #AIinInsurance #ClaimsManagement #Underwriting #InsuranceTechnology #CommercialInsurance #MGA #TPA #WorkersComp

Eric Stein, chief investment officer at Voya Investment Management, says that  investors can expect interest rates — particularly on longer-term bonds — will keep rising, but those higher reates "will lead to lower rates because you will see a response on the demand side whether it's through the consumer or through the [capital expenditures] cycle." Stein says that if "demand destruction" doesn't slow the economy too much, recession remains avoidable, particularly in the muted economic cycles that the U.S. has been going through in recent years. In The NAVigator segment,  Bryce Doty, senior portfolio manager at Sit Investment Associates, also says that rates will be coming down, with his estimation being that it happens by the fall because "the worst is over as far as yields going up." Doty says that if oil prices stay below $110 per barrel, it's viewed as inflationary; above that level, "We have a problem, and so does the rest of the world." He says central banks will solve that problem by cutting rates to "save economies from disaster," and likes two-year TIPS, municipal bonds and high-yield corporate bonds to ride out the storm. Plus, Mark Hamrick, senior economic analyst and Washington bureau chief at BankRate.com — who recently launched The Hamrick Brief on Substack to give his take on current financial events — discusses mortgage rates and inflation both reaching recent highs, the historical context of those numbers and how, why and when conditions may ease and change.

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein sits down with Joe Zuk, an operating partner with Altamont Capital Partners, to discuss the future of insurance through the lens of private equity, underwriting, MGA strategy, and AI. Joe shares insights from his career across reinsurance, underwriting, corporate development, and insurance investing, while offering a behind-the-scenes look at how AI is reshaping underwriting, claims, workflow, and service across the industry. They also discuss the current M&A landscape in insurance, what investors are looking for in MGAs, wholesalers, and retail platforms, and why data, underwriting discipline, strong distribution, and human expertise continue to matter in a changing market. This episode is a great listen for agency owners, wholesalers, MGAs, carriers, and insurtech leaders looking to stay ahead of what's next in commercial insurance.

Eric SteinCEO of Commerce at Actual (formerly Microblink)Eric Stein is a Silicon Valley veteran and high-tech entrepreneur who specializes in scaling businesses that sit at the intersection of data, AI, and consumer behavior. He currently leads Actual, the purchase data platform that spun out of Microblink to provide real-time product intelligence for the world's largest rewards and loyalty programs.The Rebrand to Actual: Stein oversaw the transition from "BlinkReceipt" to Actual. The new name highlights the platform's core differentiator: providing "actual" purchase data from physical and digital receipts, rather than relying on consumer surveys or guesswork.Core Mission: Under Stein's leadership, Actual has become an essential "intelligence layer" for retail and CPG brands, allowing them to see exactly what consumers are buying across all retailers in real-time to drive hyper-personalized engagement.Google & DoubleClick Pedigree: Before his pivot to commerce AI, Stein was a key figure at Google, where he served as Director of Local Markets and Director of DoubleClick. His work there helped build the foundational pipes for how local and display advertising function today.Deep Linking & Scale: He previously served as EVP and GM at Branch Metrics, where he scaled the mobile deep-linking platform into a global standard, and was EVP of Online Solutions for Epsilon.Strategic Roots: Stein co-founded Majestic Research, a pioneering data-driven investment research firm that was successfully sold to ITG in 2008. He also served as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Bessemer Venture Partners.Education: He holds a BA in European History and Italian from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Harvard Business School.Philanthropy: Outside of tech, he is a dedicated philanthropist, serving as President of the AFHU Pacific Northwest Region and on the board of the Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School.Entrepreneurial & Academic Background

In this episode of Insurance Shop Talk, host Eric Stein sits down with Francisco Lopes of Sonant to talk about how AI voice technology is transforming the way insurance agencies handle inbound and outbound calls. From quote requests and policy servicing to claims intake, billing questions, renewals, and cancellation follow-up, Francisco shares how agencies are using AI voice assistants to reduce call overload, improve team efficiency, and create better client experiences. They also discuss where human review still matters, how AI integrates with major agency management systems, security considerations, adoption challenges, and what's coming next in insurance automation. If you've been curious about how AI can actually work inside a real insurance agency, this conversation gives a practical look at the opportunities, limitations, and future of voice AI in the industry. #InsuranceShopTalk #InsurancePodcast #AIinInsurance #Insurtech #InsuranceAgency #CommercialInsurance #InsuranceTechnology #AgencyAutomation

Healthcare costs are no longer just a line item — they're a growing liability for employers. In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein sits down with Brandy Thompson, CEO of BenefitBay, to explore how ICHRA (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements) is reshaping the way larger employers approach employee benefits. With renewal volatility, self-funded risk exposure, fiduciary pressure, and increasing administrative burden, many CFOs and HR teams are feeling squeezed from every direction. Brandy breaks down how a defined contribution model can restore budget control, preserve pre-tax advantages, and give employees true plan choice across multiple carriers — all while significantly reducing internal administration. The conversation covers: • How ICHRA works for groups 200+ lives • Why large employers are moving away from traditional self-funded models • How employees can shop plans based on their own doctors and prescriptions • The role of technology in simplifying enrollment and payroll coordination • How brokers and P&C agents can expand advisory value in the benefits space If you work with CFOs, HR leaders, or growing organizations facing healthcare cost pressure, this episode offers a fresh perspective on a rapidly evolving market. Watch now and learn how this model is changing the benefits conversation. #InsuranceShopTalk #EmployeeBenefits #ICHRA #HealthcareStrategy #CFOInsights #AgencyGrowth #InsuranceIndustry

Insurance agencies don't just need more people — they need smarter operations. In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, Eric Stein sits down with Travis MacMillian of Xceedance to unpack how automation, AI, and strategic back-office support can completely transform the way property & casualty agencies operate. From policy checking and COI management to remarketing, loss runs, endorsements, accounting reconciliation, and even claims coordination — Travis explains how agencies can eliminate repetitive portal work, reduce manual data entry, and create 30%+ more operational capacity without stacking on more headcount. This isn't about replacing people. It's about removing friction — so principals can put more in their pocket, pay producers and CSRs more, and build a modern digital footprint that supports real growth. If you're tired of adding bodies just to keep up with volume, this conversation will shift your thinking. #InsuranceShopTalk #AgencyAutomation #InsurTech #InsuranceOperations #AgencyGrowth #DigitalInsurance #PAndC New boost

The postpartum period isn't just about the mother—it's a critical window where partner support can make or break recovery. In this episode, I'm joined by Eric Stein to talk about the essential role men play after birth, why so many partners want to help but don't know how, and how others underestimate their responsibility altogether. We unpack how intentional nourishment, rest, and a strong support system can radically change the postpartum experience. This conversation is a must-listen for any family wanting a calmer, more supported fourth trimester. Click HERE to access the show notes for this episode or to learn more about Eric, he and his wife's business collaboration and where you can find all things Restorative Roots. 

In this episode of Insurance Shop Talk, host Eric Stein introduces a game-changing workers' compensation opportunity for P&C agents in Ohio and surrounding states. With Ohio's monopolistic system long limiting agent participation, a newly approved Alternate Employer Organization (AEO) program now allows agents to earn ongoing commission while delivering meaningful cost savings and improved claims management for their clients. Eric breaks down how the program works, who it's best suited for, and—most importantly—the practical sales strategy agents can use to position it with existing clients and prospects. From pay-as-you-go billing and simplified claims handling to real-world savings examples, this webinar offers a clear roadmap for agents looking to unlock new revenue and strengthen client retention in a competitive market.

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein sits down with Walter Sabrin of Venture Employer Services for a wide-ranging conversation on the realities of hiring, recruiting, and retaining talent in today's insurance agency environment. Drawing on decades of experience, Walter breaks down why agencies should always be recruiting, how internal referral programs and small-scale job fairs can deliver outsized results, and why traditional job boards often fail to reach the best candidates. The discussion also explores proactive headhunting, building a recruiting pipeline for future needs, leveraging nearshore and remote talent to reduce costs while increasing productivity, and the importance of communication, training, and career progression in improving retention. Together, Eric and Walter share practical, real-world insights that agency owners can use to strengthen their teams, adapt to a changing workforce, and build a sustainable hiring strategy for the future.

Who is Rob Cesternino?- A Traitors S4 Profile Welcome to RHAP’s coverage of ALL the Traitors iterations from around the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. The Traitors US is a high-stakes reality competition set in a secluded castle, where contestants must work together to complete challenges and earn a prize pot—while rooting out the secret traitors hidden among them. Today, Pooya is joined by Mike Bloom and Eric Stein to preview our podfather, Rob Cesternino, ahead of the Traitors US Season 4 premiere. Never miss all our Traitors US recaps plus recaps from other versions around the world! LISTEN: Subscribe to The Traitors Around the World podcast feed WATCH:  Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Who is Rob Cesternino?- A Traitors S4 Profile Welcome to RHAP's coverage of ALL the Traitors iterations from around the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. The Traitors US is a high-stakes reality competition set in a secluded castle, where contestants must work together to complete challenges and earn a prize pot—while rooting out the secret traitors hidden among them.   Today, Pooya is joined by Mike Bloom and Eric Stein to preview our podfather, Rob Cesternino, ahead of the Traitors US Season 4 premiere.  Never miss all our Traitors US recaps plus recaps from other versions around the world!LISTEN: Subscribe to The Traitors Around the World podcast feedWATCH:  Subscribe to the podcast on YouTubeSUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein sits down with Vlada Lotkina, CEO and co-founder of SUPERAGENT, to explore how AI is changing the way P&C agencies train and scale their sales teams. Vlada breaks down how SUPERAGENT's AI personas create realistic roleplay for new producers, how the real-time sales co-pilot improves conversion rates for experienced reps, and how their outbound AI agent can qualify leads, gather data, and follow workflows with almost no integration. She also discusses how agencies are using the platform to gain visibility into performance, deliver personalized coaching, and turn months of training into days of meaningful progress. If you want a clear, practical look at how AI is actually improving insurance sales—not just adding hype—this episode delivers a firsthand view of what's possible. About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. To learn more about Insurance Shoptalk, please visit https://insuranceshoptalk.com/. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, please like and subscribe, and be sure to click the notification bell to catch the next episode.

Would your P&C agency benefit from nearshore or offshore back-office solutions? Find out more in this episode of Insurance Shoptalk! In this episode, host Eric Stein is joined by guests Mark Stetson and Henderson Watkins from Solvo Global. They share more about Solvo Global and their many services for P&C agencies, like processing certificates, scrubbing accords, forwarding policy information, and handling reinstatements and cancellations. Eric, Mark, and Henderson also delve into the differences between offshore and nearshore service, and how they differ in cost savings, productivity benefits, and more. To learn more about Solvo Global, find them online at www.solvoglobal.com About Insurance Shoptalk Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, follow us on our social media pages to learn the latest on commercial insurance industry.

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein sits down with Terry McLean, CEO of SageSure, to discuss how the company has built one of the largest independent property insurance platforms serving catastrophe-exposed markets. Terry shares insights into navigating the hardest property market in decades, managing risk in wildfire and coastal regions, and balancing technology with hands-on underwriting and claims operations. From Florida's ENS market to California's wildfire challenges, this conversation reveals how disciplined underwriting, data-driven modeling, and long-term relationships with agents help SageSure thrive where others retreat. Tune in for a candid look at the future of homeowners insurance, reinsurance cycles, and what agents can do to succeed in high-risk markets. About Insurance Shoptalk Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. To learn more about Insurance Shoptalk, please visit https://insuranceshoptalk.com/ If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, please like and subscribe, and be sure to click the notification bell to catch the next episode.

Your eyes are not deceiving you. Big Brother LEGEND - The Mastermind - America's Player - ERIC STEIN, is our guest on this week's episode! In what turned into our longest episode of the podcast thus far, we pick Eric's brain on all things Big Brother, and of course send three more players to round 2. Each week in The Diary Room, a wheel of names will randomly select SIX players from North American Big Brother history to enter the bracket. In three separate head-to-head matchups, three players will advance to the next round and three players will be eliminated. Someday, we'll find the best Big Brother player of all time! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join us on Patreon for more Diary Room!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Vote in Battle Backs and even cast a vote for the actual Diary Room episodes! Follow us on BlueSky! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thediaryroom⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@mattliguori⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@amanadwin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on Twitter! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@diaryroompcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@mattliguori⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@amanadwin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Facebook!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textAs a postpartum provider, you already know the postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression epidemic is real. But we are avoiding a massive blind spot. We're talking about the missing partner in postpartum care—the fathers. Eric Stein, co-founder of Restorative Roots (the nationwide postpartum meal delivery service), to dive deep into how sidelining the masculine partner is costing maternal health dearly, often fueling postpartum resentment and a profound lack of safety. This isn't just about making dads feel useful; it's about functional postpartum recovery and safeguarding the mother's entire well-being. Eric shares his raw journey from an unprepared first-time father to a fully present birth partner and why finding a men's group was the game-changer for his family's harmony. Learn how, as a provider, you can help your clients' family dynamics and foster genuine holistic postpartum health for both parents.Check out this episode on the blog HERE. Key time stamps: 01:55: Why most fathers feel unprepared and excluded from postpartum care.02:22: The cost of sidelining partners: increased maternal anxiety and slow progress.03:07: Addressing the guilt of partners who can't take time off work.04:03: Provider tip: Tailor communication to the partner (listener, talker, reader).06:23: Societal pressure and why men feel pushed out of the birth process.08:43: The trap of "robot mode" doing vs. the power of being present.09:48: The missing inter-generational transfer of fatherhood knowledge.10:18: Addressing postpartum resentment when partners are unsupportive.14:30: Defining "masculine leadership" as showing up prepared and confident.15:30: Why partner self-care is mandatory before the baby arrives.20:41: The #1 intervention: Men's support groups for direct, masculine feedback.25:59: Call to action: Providers must create or push men's groups for support.Connect with Eric: Co-founder of Restorative Roots,  (formerly known as Mama Meals) a nationwide postpartum meal delivery company.  He spent the last 3.5 years growing their business from weekly pickups out of their garage to nationwide direct-to-consumer frozen delivery right to your door.Website  NEXT STEPS:

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein of Insured Solutions speaks with Bob Butts of Alternative Comp Solutions (ACS) about Ohio's newly approved Alternative Employer Organization (AEO) program—an innovative alternative to the state's traditional Bureau of Workers' Compensation system. They discuss how this new model allows agents to finally earn commissions on workers' comp, helps employers save 20–30% on premiums, introduces a convenient pay-as-you-go billing structure, and simplifies claims management. The conversation also explores how AEOs differ from PEOs, what agents need to know about the AC3 form and quoting process, and why this change opens major opportunities for agencies across Ohio. About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. To learn more about Insurance Shoptalk, please visit https://insuranceshoptalk.com/ If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, please like and subscribe, and be sure to click the notification bell to catch the next episode.

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, guest Jamie Fortier from isolved joins host Eric Stein to discuss how insurance agents can expand into payroll services through flexible referral and white-label models. Jamie explains how isolved supports agents with full back-office operations—from payroll processing to tax management—allowing them to grow revenue without adding staff. The conversation dives into isolved's focus on enhancing employee experience, the advantages of consolidating services under one provider, and strategies for protecting core insurance business while building new income streams. Tune in to learn how payroll partnerships can help agencies strengthen client relationships and scale their service offerings. About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. To learn more about Insurance Shoptalk, please visit https://insuranceshoptalk.com/ If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, please like and subscribe, and be sure to click the notification bell to catch the next episode.

Ever wondered what happens when a realtor decides to take the leap into investing? Meet Eric Stein, who started selling homes at just 18 years old and turned that hustle into a thriving flipping and rental business!In this episode of Finding Discounted Property Podcast, Eric shares how his first flip in 2010 (a rundown 3-family he grabbed for just $210K!) turned into a career-changing moment. From making $80K on that deal to doing multiple flips a year, his story is packed with lessons on timing, resilience, and taking calculated risks.

In this new episode of Insurance Shoptalk, join host Eric Stein and guest Jim Urseth, president of Reliable Premium Management (RPM), for a deep-dive into their pay-as-you-go solutions. RPM has many unique offerings, including a pay-as-you-go general liability program billed by payroll instead of the company's revenue. Their pay-as-you-go offerings also include Workers' Compensation programs, with superior options, flexibility, and benefits like easy implementation, a simplified audit experience, and pay-as-you-go insurance premiums to minimize the upfront costs of Workers' Compensation. To learn more about RPM and their pay-as-you-go solutions, find them online at https://reliablepremium.com/. About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, follow us on our social media pages to learn the latest on commercial insurance industry.

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, explore the world of human resources (and more!) with host Eric Stein and special guest host Ryan Floyd. Eric and Ryan talk with David Ainsworth and David Bell from Zynergia, a trusted HR partner that offers a variety of services, including payroll, benefit management, risk management, and more. They discuss Zynergia's the coverage, features, and benefits of their unique programs, especially their PEO and Workers' Compensation offerings. To learn more about Zynergia and their services, please find them online at https://zynergiahr.com/ About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, follow us on our social media pages to learn the latest on commercial insurance industry.

Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong sit down with Eric Stein for a deep dive into his surprise appearance as one of the "masterminds" behind Big Brother 27's season-long twist.

Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong sit down with Eric Stein for a deep dive into his surprise appearance as one of the "masterminds" behind Big Brother 27's season-long twist.

Host Sharon Tharp catches up with Big Brother 8's Eric Stein for her "Legends Only" series where she talks to icons of the game. Known as America's Player, Eric opens up about how the twist really shaped his game — and affected his life outside the house. He also shares the story of how his surprise return as the Mastermind in Big Brother 27 came about, plus his unfiltered thoughts on the franchise, the fans, and more.

In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, join host Eric Stein and guest Vladimir Vladimirov for an in-depth exploration of NowCerts and their cloud-based integration CRM and agency management system, Automate 365. In this episode, NowCerts system manager Vladimir talks though the many uses and benefits of Automate 365, including the system's ability to assist P&C agents with task like online quoting, sales, marketing, customizable reporting, and workflow automations. To learn more about NowCerts, please visit www.nowcerts.com. You can also learn more about Automate 365 at www.automate365.com. About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, follow us on our social media pages to learn the latest on commercial insurance industry.

Ohio Workers' Comp Just Changed – Here's What Agents Need to Know: In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein talks with Bob Butts, Chief Risk Officer at Alternative Comp Solutions (ACS), about a major change in Ohio's workers' compensation market. For the first time, agents can now sell workers' comp in Ohio and earn commission, thanks to Senate Bill 2011 and approval by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation. Bob explains how ACS is leading the way with an Alternative Employer Organization (AEO) model that saves employers 10–30% on premiums, simplifies claims handling, and eliminates the need to switch payroll systems. The discussion covers the differences between AEOs and PEOs, how the pay-as-you-go approach helps employers with cash flow, and why this new model is such a big opportunity for insurance agents. About Insurance Shoptalk: Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. To learn more about Insurance Shoptalk, please visit https://insuranceshoptalk.com/

Welcome to another episode of Insurance Shoptalk, where host Eric Stein provides P&C agents with industry updates and in-depth information about new tools and programs they can use to improve their business! In this episode, Eric chats with guest John Tillery, one of the founder's of Whiteboard Risk, a commercial property and casualty agency located in Southern California and operating in all states. In this episode, Eric and John take a deep-dive into Whiteboard Risk's subscription risk management services, including its unique programs and many benefits, including higher commissions, contingency bonuses, and reduced Workers' Compensation claims and premiums. To learn more about Whiteboard Risk and their subscription risk management services, please visit https://www.whiteboardrisk.com/ About Insurance Shoptalk Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, follow us on our social media pages to learn the latest on commercial insurance industry.

Are you a P&C agent interested in learning how to quote, bind, and service without the need for multiple logins? Find out more in this episode of Insurance Shoptalk with host Eric Stein and guest Phil Friedman from iBynd! iBynd is a comparative insurance rater that allows P&C agents to quote, bind, and service for property and casualty insurance carriers in Workers' Compensation—all without the need to login to multiple websites to bind coverage. In this episode, Phil shares more about iBynd's unique features and how it can help agents avoid the headache of multiple logins. To learn more about iBynd, please visit www.ibynd.com About Insurance Shoptalk Join host Eric Stein on a journey through the dynamic world of commercial property and casualty insurance. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to every episode. Insurance Shoptalk is your premier destination for in-depth discussions on the latest industry trends, technology impacts, interviews with leading experts, and much more. If you enjoyed this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, follow us on our social media pages to learn the latest on commercial insurance industry.

Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editors and journalists from our team. Up this week: Jessica Pothering discusses a new financing tool from Roots of Impact, Simple Agreement for Future Impact. Eric Stein joins from Medellín to talk about impact investing trends he's been seeing during recent travels across Latin America (8:30). And, Jessica shares how a medical oxygen company in East Africa managed to secure financing after the DFC reneged (16:40)."Forget SAFEs. Impact investors are incentivizing growth and impact with SAFIs," by Jessica Pothering and Erik Stein. “Peruvian impact investors are mobilizing capital for inclusive growth in the Amazon,” by Erik Stein"Kenya's Hewatele lands $10.5 million to produce medical oxygen locally, " by Lucy Ngige

Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editors and journalists from our team. Up this week: Jessica Pothering discusses a new financing tool from Roots of Impact, Simple Agreement for Future Impact. Eric Stein joins from Medellín to talk about impact investing trends he's been seeing during recent travels across Latin America (8:30). And, Jessica shares how a medical oxygen company in East Africa managed to secure financing after the DFC reneged (16:40)."⁠Forget SAFEs. Impact investors are incentivizing growth and impact with SAFIs⁠," by Jessica Pothering and Erik Stein. “⁠Peruvian impact investors are mobilizing capital for inclusive growth in the Amazon⁠,” by Erik Stein"⁠Kenya's Hewatele lands $10.5 million to produce medical oxygen locally⁠, " by Lucy Ngige

In this new episode of Insurance Shoptalk, host Eric Stein chats with Dan Thompson, Chief Benefits Officer at Venture Employer Services, about how businesses can rethink their healthcare plans. Dan shares insights into modernizing employee benefits and reducing costs while improving the overall experience for employees. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that could change the way you approach health insurance for your business!

Eric Stein, chief investment officer, Voya Investment Management, says that if the economy can muddle through until the Federal Reserve cuts rates, it will be positive for the stock market and the broader economy, allowing for 2026 to be another year that continues the winning streak for stocks. Stein says that he believes markets "get desensitized to similar news over time," and that the current markets may still be fixated on tariffs, but "general tariff noise" is now priced in and aren't enough to derail the market or create a recession. He says that economic changes, including the building deregulation story, will help small-cap stocks move from laggards to leaders. Matt Freund, co-chief investment officer at Calamos Investments, expects the Federal Reserve to make "a couple of cuts this year, followed by two or three cuts next year," and that those moves will be made while inflation stays at current levels or rises slightly. Like Stein, Freund thinks changes in economic conditions will help the market broaden out to include small-caps, and while he is worried about the market facing a rough patch in the fall, he said the market should be able to enter 2026 with room to run. Jeff Bishop, chief executive officer at RagingBull.com, says that when he examines the technical patterns he doesn't "see any reason to not want to continue to buy the market here." Bishop expects the market to suffer a 10 percent correction in the fall, but wind up higher. He thinks 2026 is shaping up as a year when the market could post low double-digit gains again. Plus, Chuck answers a listener's question about new rules that allow private equity, private credit, cryptocurrency and other alternative assets in retirement plans, and whether that access is really a good idea.

Big news! Insurance Shoptalk has joined the AI Podcast Network! Smart conversations, sharp strategies - coming at you weekly. In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, Eric Stein sits down with Alex Choroomi from Alkeme Insurance to discuss how digital leads and online quoting are transforming the small business insurance landscape. Alex shares his journey into the commercial insurance world, explaining how Alkeme Insurance is leveraging digital advertising and advanced quoting portals to bring in high-quality leads and close deals quickly. He dives deep into the challenges and successes of targeting industries like contractors, manufacturing, and transportation with tailored workers' comp and general liability coverage.

This week, with Rob away, Akiva invites Eric Stein onto the podcast to ask him stupid questions.

In this episode of Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers is joined by Eric Stein, the president of Insured Solutions and author of the newly published book The Blueprint. Eric brings a wealth of experience in the insurance industry, especially in alternative workers' compensation and risk management. Throughout the episode, he shares insights into the complexities of captives and alternative risk transfer, breaking down the steps agencies should take to prepare for these advanced insurance structures. From understanding high-deductible programs to managing collateral and underwriting, Eric emphasizes the importance of laying a solid foundation before transitioning into self-insured or captive models. He also delves into the practicalities of running a business with virtual assistants, outsourcing, and the technological tools that have helped him with scale operations. Key Points: Captives and Alternative Risk Transfer Eric Stein explains the transition process from guaranteed cost programs to alternative risk solutions like captives. He highlights the importance of proper preparation, risk management strategies, and collateral requirements that agents need to consider before taking the plunge into captives. Building Risk Management Programs Eric discusses how he built a successful alternative risk workers' comp program, including the creation of custom risk management packages for clients. He stresses the significance of managing risk effectively before committing to high deductible or self-insured programs. Leveraging Offshore Virtual Professionals Drawing from his experience, Eric shares how he successfully utilized offshore virtual assistants to scale his business. He talks about the process of outsourcing back-office work, from telemarketing to CSR tasks, and the importance of developing solid processes to ensure smooth operations. Documenting Processes for Virtual Assistants Eric emphasizes the necessity of having documented workflows before outsourcing tasks to virtual professionals. He provides valuable advice on how agencies can streamline their processes and integrate offshore support effectively, ensuring they get the most out of their virtual team. The Power of Automation and Marketing Eric also touches on how marketing automation has helped him grow his business. From email marketing to using systems like Salesforce and Pardot, he explains how automation frees up time for high-value activities, such as client relationship building and business development. Exclusive Offer For the first 10 listeners who email Eric at eric@insuredsolutions.net, he's offering a free digital copy of his book The Blueprint, where he dives deeper into his unconventional journey and the strategies that led him to success in the insurance industry. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Eric Stein LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp Insured Solutions Inc. Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes

Eric Stein, head of investments and chief investment officer for fixed income at Voya Investment Management, says that the "sequencing of policies" is impacting the market now, noting that if the Trump Administration had done supply-side reforms and de-regulation first, it would boost the market, but instead the first moves have been tariffs, which has made the market outlook tougher. Still, he's expecting a modestly positive year, buoyed in part by the market's "self-correcting mechanism" that will react to tariff policy and impact how and how long those policies stay in place. Veteran technical analyst Martin Pring of Pring Research and the Intermarket Review says that the primary trend he's seeing in the market remains bullish, and the signs that we are nearing a market top are balanced by indicators showing there's more room to run. David Callaway, founder of Callaway Climate Insights, discusses how energy stocks could be set up for a fall; they have boomed as an AI-adjacent play because artificial intelligence requires high levels of power, but got hammered when the market was disappointed in the results at companies like Nvidia. Plus Andrew Graham of Jackson Square Capital talks stock investing in the Market Call.

Eric Stein is the CEO of Mama Meals, which was founded by his wife, Holly. Together they have three kiddos (and we get to hear their birth stories today!). Tune into Eric's journey to CEO, Mama Meals' journey to success and more about how Eric manages fatherhood, business and running the business with his wife. Plus, more on nutrient-dense eating for postpartum healing. Mamameals.com Eric on LinkedIn Mama Meals on IG _________________________________ @kozekozemama on TikTok Purchase Nip Gloss ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or ⁠⁠⁠ kozēpee peecup (⁠⁠⁠for ovulation and pregnancy testing) with code THANKYOU20 ⁠⁠Nip Gloss on Amazon⁠⁠ Want commission + discounts to kozēkozē products? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠to be an affiliate and kozēkozē insider :) Sign-up for the kozēkozē newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ *********** Connect with our host on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@garrettnwood⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow kozēkozē on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@kozekozemama⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Instagram for details on past guests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@kozekozepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you like Garrett's voice, check out her ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠meditations here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email Garrett: garrettkusmierz@kozekoze.com

Eric Stein is the CEO of Mama Meals, which was founded by his wife, Holly. Together they have three kiddos (and we get to hear their birth stories today!). Tune into Eric's journey to CEO, Mama Meals' journey to success and more about how Eric manages fatherhood, business and running the business with his wife. Plus, more on nutrient-dense eating for postpartum healing. Mamameals.com Eric on LinkedIn Mama Meals on IG _________________________________ @kozekozemama on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Purchase Nip Gloss ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or ⁠⁠⁠ kozēpee peecup (⁠⁠⁠for ovulation and pregnancy testing) with code THANKYOU20 ⁠⁠Nip Gloss on Amazon⁠⁠ Want commission + discounts to kozēkozē products? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠to be an affiliate and kozēkozē insider :) Sign-up for the kozēkozē newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ *********** Connect with our host on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@garrettnwood⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow kozēkozē on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@kozekozemama⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Instagram for details on past guests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@kozekozepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you like Garrett's voice, check out her ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠meditations here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email garrett: garrettkusmierz@kozekoze.com

Eric Stein is a Partner at East Bay Investment Solutions, a firm that offers fractional Chief Investment Officer services, supporting over $6 billion in assets under advisement across 26 advisory firm clients. In this episode, we discuss how Eric leverages his extensive investment expertise not by managing portfolios for individual clients as a traditional financial advisor, but rather by embracing his role as an 'investment nerd' serving as a fractional Chief Investment Officer, supporting multiple advisory firms and their clients. Listen in as Eric shares how his fractional Chief Investment Officer service operates, providing investment research, portfolio design, and market commentary while leaving portfolio implementation up to the advisor themselves. He also discusses his winding career path, from commercial banking to Goldman Sachs Asset Management and as a CIO for a national RIA, to his current role, which he found after a careful 'dating' process with his business partner to ensure their visions aligned. Eric also reflects on his experiences across large national businesses and smaller firms, emphasizing the importance of role exploration, effective management practices, and learning from both successes and failures to navigate challenges that arise. For show notes and more visit: https://www.kitces.com/403

Rob & Akiva Need a Podcast, so they watch Groundhog Day with Eric Stein, and then spin the Wheel of Ideas to determine next week's topic.