Podcasts about insurance podcast

In this weeks episode, the Mayor and Toby discuss the intersection of technology and insurance, focusing on the challenges and opportunities within the industry. They explore the role of AI in transforming insurance processes, the importance of understanding client needs, and the potential for technology to attract new talent to the field. Toby shares insights from his journey in the insurance and tech sectors, highlighting the innovative solutions his company, OneFort, is developing to streamline operations and enhance client relationships.TakeawaysAI is transforming the insurance industry by automating processes.Understanding client needs is crucial for effective insurance solutions.Technology can attract new talent to the insurance field.OneFort focuses on independent insurance agents to maximize impact.Manual processes in insurance are time-consuming and need automation.Cross-selling and upselling are key strategies for insurance growth.AI can help identify underinsured clients and recommend solutions.The insurance industry faces a talent shortage that technology can address.OneFort integrates with existing tools to streamline insurance workflows.Toby emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation in tech solutions.Chapters00:00:02 Introduction and Greetings00:00:05 Discussing Upcoming Events00:00:20 The Role of Magic in Trade Shows00:03:23 Toby's Journey in Insurance and Tech00:07:55 Miscommunication in Insurance and Tech00:16:21  Focus on AI for producers, and CSR's 00:29:01  AI Solutions for Insurance00:32:04 Cross-Selling and Upselling with AI00:39:32 Future Plans and Industry GrowthSponsors:Smart Choice The Fastest growing agency network in country! Hands DownCanopy Connect - Your 1 click solution to getting the dec pages you need to quote your prospects

Episode Info Rob Galbraith is the founder and CEO of Forestview Insights and is the author of the international bestselling book, The End of Insurance As We Know It. Rob is an award-winning speaker who has shared his unique insights at numerous events around the globe on the topics of innovation, insurtech, and the future of insurance. Rob has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry in a variety of innovation and leadership positions at AF Group, USAA, and the Federal Reserve Board.  Episode Highlights The interview with Rob Galbraith at the 2025 PLRB Innovation Summit covers several key topics related to innovation in the insurance industry. Rob Galbraith, the founder and CEO of Forestview Insights, discusses his role in consulting and training traditional companies, particularly in the insurance sector, to foster a culture of innovation. Key points from the interview include: Building a Culture of Innovation: Rob emphasizes the importance of creating a sustainable culture of innovation within companies, which goes beyond the efforts of a single leader or project. He highlights that innovation should be treated as a discipline similar to underwriting or actuarial science. Challenges in Innovation: He acknowledges the difficulties companies face in maintaining innovation, particularly in aligning IT projects with business needs. Rob shares his experiences with core system projects and the challenges of implementing new systems that meet business requirements. Role of AI: The discussion touches on the potential of AI to address technical debt and streamline processes in the insurance industry. Rob shares insights on how AI can help in summarizing regulatory documents and customizing systems without extensive manual programming. Long-term Perspective in Insurance: Rob discusses the long-term nature of the insurance business and how this perspective can be advantageous for innovation. He suggests that the industry's focus on long-term outcomes could support a more thoughtful approach to innovation. Overall, the interview provides valuable insights into the strategies and challenges of fostering innovation in the insurance industry, with a focus on the role of leadership, culture, and technology. This episode is brought to you by The Future of Insurance book series (future-of-insurance.com) from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at future-of-insurance.com/podcast for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of Hyperbeat Music, available to stream or download on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music and more.

This one is a Mayor Solo! Mail bag episode! STICK AROUND and hang out with me. If you dont want to hear a solo episode , I get it , Go check out another one of your favorite shows, no hurt feelings here. But if you wanna hang out with me, I look forward to the next 39 minutes with you itll be fun Sponsors:Smart ChoiceCanopy Connect 

In this week's episode the Mayor Heath Shearon hosts another town hall meeting. This week we talk about the headaches of intake forms and gathering of prospect information, And the back and forth of gathering pertinent information for underwriters. All of these things can end up being a roadblock. All of these things can sometimes caused bottlenecks in your agency. That is where Canopy Connect comes into play with their intake platform. They're one click solution that I've been talking about for 5 years now.  Thanks to Ray Huang for making the visit to Insurance Town and Showing us behind the scenes.  If you did miss this episode live, this is your chance to check it out. If you would like to learn more about Canopy Connect,  please go to usecanopy.com health and take advantage of the discount, book a demo, check it out. If you want to watch this episode go to our Youtube channel and check it out.  Sponsors Smart Choice- The fastest growing agency network hands down. 10,000 agencies nationwide trust them with over 11 BILLION  in written premium. Canopy Connect- Your One Click Solution to getting dec pages you need to quote your prospects. 

In Episode 112 of the Aviation Insurance Podcast, host Tim Bonnell Jr. sits down with Mark Pennington, Senior Vice President – Head of Aviation, North America at W. Brown & Associates, a Sompo Company. With over three decades in aviation insurance, Mark shares a grounded perspective on where the market's been—and where it's headed. From leadership lessons to market cycles, pilot shortages, and the future of underwriting, this is a masterclass in staying resilient and relevant in a turbulent industry.

Shane and Tonya discuss what it means to pivot with purpose, and why embracing change isn't risky when it's rooted in strategy. Whether you're an agency owner stuck in the daily grind, a producer ready to lead, or someone clinging to what you've built out of fear of losing it, this conversation will challenge the way you think about growth, reinvention, and leadership. Because sometimes, the smartest move isn't staying the same. It's making the right kind of change. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this weeks episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor Heath Shearon, sits down with Valerie Bowden, founder of Crdle, to discuss the evolving landscape of outsourcing and the unique opportunities Africa presents. Valerie shares her journey from backpacking across Africa to establishing a successful outsourcing company that champions fair wages and ethical practices. Discover how Crdle is changing the game by connecting businesses with talented professionals from the continent. IntroductionHost introduction and episode overview Shoutout to sponsors: Smart Choice and Canopy Connect[03:15] Valerie's JourneyValerie shares her adventurous backpacking trip across Africa How her experiences led to the founding of Cradle[10:45] The Cradle MissionDiscussion on ethical outsourcing and creating sustainable jobs The importance of fair wages and supporting African talent[18:30] Bridging the GapHow Cradle connects African professionals with global businesses Success stories and client experiences[25:00] The Role of AIValerie's insights on AI's impact on virtual assistants How AI tools enhance the capabilities of offshore teams[32:15] Tips for Hiring Offshore TalentValerie's advice for businesses looking to hire from Africa Best practices for onboarding and training virtual assistants[40:00] Closing ThoughtsValerie's vision for the future of outsourcing Final words and how to connect with Valerie and CradleSponsors:Smart Choice: The fastest growing agency network, offering a wide range of services to help agencies thrive. Visit smartchoiceagents.com for more information. Canopy Connect: Revolutionizing the way agencies handle client data with their innovative intake form platform. Learn more at usecanopy.com.Want to work with Crdle ? want to contact Valerie Bowden

What happens when a Division I athlete spends her summer interning in the insurance world? You get a fresh, insightful look at how Gen Z views our industry. Shane and Tonya talk with Campbell Bagshaw, University of Kansas softball player and Integra's summer intern, to talk about what surprised her, what agency owners need to know about Gen Z, and why she thinks athletes are built for insurance. From marketing and communication to career potential and workplace culture, this episode is packed with new perspectives. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

This week on the Future of Insurance Podcast, NYPIUA's Kin Lee joins Denise insightful conversation on the transition from legacy technology to intelligent, cloud-native core solutions. They explore how to avoid carrying forward outdated complexity, the business value of GenAI, and embedded new opportunities for transformation. They also highlight the innovation potential for smaller companies adopting next-gen intelligent core platforms, the importance of strong partnerships, and practical advice for mid- to small-sized insurers navigating their modernization journey.

In this episode, Mayor Heath Shearon, sits down with Thomas Mann to explore the intersection of technology and operations in the insurance industry. Discover how Thomas's journey from a multi-generational insurance background to a tech-focused role has shaped his approach to agency success. They discuss the importance of integrating technology with operations, avoiding common pitfalls, and the value of involving your team in tech decisions."Nothing is fully launched until it's embedded in a process.""You should design your processes and your tech stack around the customer journey.""The greatest piece of tech that ever existed is just going to be a drain on the P&L if your people don't use it."Key Topics:The evolution from agency to tech operations Importance of aligning technology with agency processes Avoiding shiny object syndrome in tech adoption The role of team involvement in tech decisions Insights on building a cohesive tech ecosystemConnect with Thomas Mann on LinkedIn or visit agency-focus.com to book a call and explore how to enhance your agency's tech and operations.Link in first comment.

Headlines say rising insurance premiums are crushing the American dream of homeownership. But is insurance really the problem? Shane and Tonya discuss FHA loans, skyrocketing costs, and why insurance keeps getting blamed for issues created elsewhere. This conversation tackles affordability, financial reality, and the vital role independent agents play in helping clients see the truth behind the clickbait. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this weeks episode, you are simply eavesdropping in on a fun conversation with me and two of my faves, Lindsay Wallace & Caleb Cramer . It is part goofy, and part serious but it's all heart and it's all fun trying out a new format here on this one and I'd love to hear your thoughts.I am so incredibly lucky I get to do this show every week. It makes me completely happy and it couldn't be done without you. Thank you for listening. Thank you for subscribing. Thank you for helping me achieve my dreams.Thank you to my sponsorsSmart Choice® fastest, growing agency network, hands-down. Canopy Connect - the one click solution to getting dec pages,loss runs, but now they have a new intake platform you've got to check out

What if one bill could change how you do business overnight? Shane and Tonya discuss the Insurance Regulatory Reform Act, federal legislation that has very real consequences for independent agents. From the threat of dual regulation to the risk of losing speed and flexibility, this episode dives into why the fight to keep insurance oversight at the state level (and out of Washington) matters now more than ever. They explore the politics, the ripple effects, and break it all down in a way that makes sense (and maybe even makes you want to pick up the phone and call your senator). IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this episode, host Tim Bonnell Jr. is joined by Josh Ray, Chief Underwriting Officer at Class A, a new MGA rewriting how we think about aviation insurance. With decades of experience and bold insight, Josh takes us into the cockpit of innovation — where AI, telematics, and pilot performance data are changing how underwriters evaluate risk. This conversation explores how data can improve safety, lower costs, and give long-overdue flexibility to high-performing pilots, aging airmen, and aviation operations of all kinds.

In this Episode Our Mayor, Heath Shearon as he sits down with Hari Srinivasan to explore the fascinating world of life insurance. From cricket to Cardinals, and from tech to insurance, Hari shares his journey and insights into making life insurance accessible and meaningful. Discover how iCover is revolutionizing the industry with its innovative platform and community-focused approach. Hari shows us the importance of personal passion in entrepreneurship. We also hear about iCover's unique approach to life insurance The role of community insurersThank You to Our Sponsors:Smart Choice: Your partner in insurance solutions. Canopy Connect: Simplifying insurance verification Olde School Marketing: Bringing traditional marketing into the digital age.

Drawing inspiration from baseball great Derek Jeter, Shane and Tonya discuss how focusing on daily consistency, foundational systems, and small wins can create powerful long-term momentum. Whether you're building a personal lines powerhouse or scaling your team, showing up, doing the work, and building on base hits can take your agency further than any one home run ever could. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

This week  Heath Shearon, the Mayor of Insurance Town,  sits down with his good friend Craig Bender, the visionary behind InsureU2. In this episode, Craig shares his journey from a  big player in the paintball community as a young "kid" to a leader in the insurance industry. Discover how his unique approach to marketing and community building is reshaping the way insurance is perceived and practiced. Craig discusses the importance of authenticity in content creation, the power of community in driving industry change, and his vision for the future of insurance. He also opens up about his personal experiences, from his family's influence on his career to his innovative strategies for marketing and growth. Whether you're an industry veteran or new to the field, Craig's insights offer valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and the art of building a lasting brand.Chapters:0:00 - 5:00- Introduction to Craig Bender-Heath introduces Craig Bender and his accomplishments. -Discussion on Craig's bi-coastal lifestyle and recent award. 5:01 - 15:00Early Beginnings and Family Influence-Craig's introduction to the insurance industry through his family. -The impact of his mother's career and his early experiences. 15:01 - 30:00- Marketing Innovation and Insure U2-Craig's pivot to marketing and the creation of InsureU2. -The philosophy behind the brand and its community focus. 30:01 - 45:00 Content Creation and Industry Impact-Craig's approach to content creation and its influence on the industry. -The importance of authenticity and consistency in marketing. 45:01 - 60:00 Future Vision and Community Building-Craig's vision for the future of Insure U2 and the insurance industry. -The role of community and collaboration in driving change.Quotes:"Unity is everything... it shows that we're all together and on the same page." - Craig Bender "If I want something, I need money for it. How do you get money? You work." - Craig Bender "The content is what's going to live forever... it's the message that I'm saying." - Craig Bender "It's not about speed to market when you're building a longevity company." - Craig Bender "I love insurance, but I also love seeing other people win." - Craig BenderTune in to hear more about Craig's inspiring journey and his plans for the future of the insurance industry. Don't miss out on the insights and strategies that can help you grow your own brand. Subscribe now for more episodes!Sponsors:Smart Choice Agents Program Canopy Connect Olde School Marketing

Episode Summary: Join us for an insightful conversation with Draye Redfern, a marketing expert with a rich background in insurance and a knack for innovative strategies. Draye shares his journey from working in his family's insurance agency to founding Redfern Media, a marketing agency that has helped numerous businesses thrive. Discover the power of direct mail, the importance of knowing your numbers, and the value of building personal connections in business.00:02:00 Introduction to Draye Redfern and his background in insurance 00:10:30 The power of direct mail in modern marketing. 00:22:15 Draye discusses the ANKR framework for business growth.00:35:45 The importance of personal branding and social media presence.00:48:00 Understanding business metrics and their impact on success. 1:05:00 Closing thoughts and Draye's upcoming projects.Memorable Quotes:"Good marketing is really, really impactful." – Draye Redfern "The riches are in the niches." – Draye Redfern "It's five times to 25 times more expensive to go get a new customer than it is to simply retain an existing one." – Draye Redfern "The sweetest sound of someone's ears is the sound of their own name." – Draye RedfernGuest Information: Draye Redfern is the founder of Redfern Media and a seasoned marketing consultant. Connect with him on social media @DrayeRedfern or visit fractionalcmo.com for more insights.Explore Draye's book, "The Recession Survival Guide," available on Amazon and Audible, and stay tuned for his upcoming release on the ANKR framework.Sponsors:Smart ChoiceCanopy Connect Olde School Marketing

In this Episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor Himself sits down and shares his experiences from IB FutureFest 2025, He shares his exhilarating experience at Future Fest, an innovative insurance festival held on the Santa Monica Pier. Discover the unique atmosphere, engaging activities, and insightful sessions that set this event apart from traditional conferences.Festival Vibes: Future Fest's outdoor setting on the Santa Monica Pier created a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere with activities like yoga, putt-putt, and live music. Attendees enjoyed a unique blend of professional development and leisure. Engaging Sessions: The event featured diverse sessions on AI, cybersecurity, and leadership, with industry experts like Christopher Franklin sharing their insights. The sessions catered to both agencies and carriers, offering valuable content for all attendees. Networking Opportunities: Future Fest fostered meaningful connections, allowing attendees to engage in deep conversations and build lasting relationships. The atmosphere encouraged networking in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Sponsors & Support: A special thanks to sponsors Smart Choice, Canopy Connect, and Old School Marketing for their continued support, enabling such enriching experiences.Key Quotes:"If you do what you love, you never have to work another day in your life." "Future Fest was like adult summer camp, with new friendships and meaningful conversations." "The atmosphere was phenomenal, the backdrop was phenomenal, the speakers were phenomenal."Shout Out: A big thank you to Insurance Business and Key Media for organizing such a groundbreaking event. Their dedication to creating a unique and engaging experience truly set Future Fest apartCall to Action: Don't miss out on next year's Future Fest! Visit insurance.myfuturefest.com to join the waitlist for 2026.Sponsors:Smart ChoiceOlde School marketingCanopy Connect 

Charles Specht, host of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, joins Shane and Tonya to discuss how independent agents can win bigger with commercial insurance through his unique “quoting is for the weak” approach to pre-prospecting, micro-niching and messaging.  IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Send us a textEnforcing English Proficiency in the Trucking Industry with Jeff Burkhart from AncoraIn this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, hosts discuss the enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers with Jeff Burkhart of Ancora Education.The conversation covers the historical context of the English proficiency regulation, its recent revitalization under a new executive order, and its impact on the trucking industry. Jeff explains how Ancora ensures its students meet these requirements and addresses concerns about the fairness and consistency of enforcement across the board. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by non-native English speakers in the trucking sector and the importance of safety in upholding these regulations.Contact Jeff:jeffery.burkhardt@ancora.comhttps://www.ancora.com/Your Hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/00:00 Introduction to English Proficiency in Trucking00:26 Understanding the New Executive Order00:46 Managing Safety Departments Like a Pro01:33 Guest Introduction: Jeff Burkhart from Ancora03:04 The Importance of English Proficiency in Trucking04:37 Challenges and Solutions in English Proficiency07:45 Regulations and Enforcement10:11 Cultural and Practical Challenges12:36 Testing and Training for English Proficiency17:08 Ensuring Fair and Consistent Enforcement29:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 Join us as we dive into an insightful conversation with Peter Flynn, who leads the personal lines vertical in the Americas for Exceedance. Discover his journey from an underwriting trainee at Chubb to his current role, and learn about the innovative ways Exceedance is transforming the insurance industry.Peter's career path and experiences in the insurance industry The role of Exceedance in operationalizing insurance companies Insights on AI's impact on personal lines and customer service The evolving landscape of the E&S and MGA markets The importance of partnerships in the insurance ecosystemKey quotes "Exceedance does everything an insurance company does except for take risk and distribute products.""We tend to overestimate the impact of technology in the near term and underestimate it in the long term.""If I were to invest my capital in taking risks right now, I'd want to do it on an E&S basis.""I don't want to be called a vendor, I want to be a partner."Sponsors:Smart ChoiceCanopy ConnectOlde School Markting

Send us a textMastering Insurance Cost Control for Trucking Companies with Brent AllredIn this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, the hosts discuss strategies that trucking companies can employ to manage and reduce their insurance costs. Guest Brent Allred, transportation practice leader at Higginbotham, shares his expertise on taking on more risk with higher deductibles, utilizing industry benchmarks, and the importance of detailed safety manuals and driver retention programs. The episode also emphasizes the value of having a trusted and knowledgeable insurance agent and avoiding the pitfalls of soliciting multiple brokers. Listeners are educated on effective risk management and the role of technology in creating competitive insurance terms.Reach out to Brent:LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/brent-allred-aai-cic-crm-mwca-trs-44b81443https://www.higginbotham.com/Your Hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/00:00 Introduction to Insurance Costs in Trucking00:21 Understanding Risk Management in Insurance00:41 Expert Tips for Managing Safety Departments01:12 Guest Introduction: Brent from Hagen Ham and Insurance Agency02:21 Current Challenges in the Trucking Industry03:00 Strategies to Control Insurance Costs04:09 Benchmarking and Cost Analysis06:37 Taking on More Risk: Deductibles Explained13:42 The Role of Safety Manuals and Driver Standards16:35 Technology Adoption in Trucking18:48 The Importance of Choosing the Right Insurance Broker31:26 Final Thoughts and ConclusionKeeping it Safety Dawg Simple!#trucksafety #truckinsurance #truckpodcastDo you need a "Truck Driver Safety Policy?" Get it today! https://safetydawg.com/policy

n this week's visit to Insurance Town, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Spencer Witcher, a second-generation insurance pro who's doing big things with Smart Choice. We had a real talk about the challenges agents face in hard-to-place markets — and how finding the right partners can make all the difference.We peeled back the curtain on:What Smart Choice is doing to help agents thrive in California and other tough statesHow to write the business others shy away from — without jumping through hoopsWhy MGAs and non-traditional carriers might just be your new best friendsThe critical importance of relationships — not just for quoting, but for long-term successBuilding your book with depth, not just volumeWhether you're a seasoned agency owner or a producer looking to grow smarter, Spencer delivers actionable insights that'll challenge the way you think about growth  A big THANK YOU to the amazing folks who keep the lights on in Insurance Town:  Smart Choice – Helping agents grow their book without adding overhead  Canopy Connect – Making gathering client info as easy as pie  Olde School Marketing – Bringing you hand-written, high-touch prospecting that works Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a review! New episodes drop weekly — straight from the heart of Insurance Town.

Shane and Tonya sit down with Retail Director Tara Graham to share real-world lessons from inside the Integra “lab.” From evolving service roles and managing change to improving customer experience and boosting team morale during a hard market, the conversation gets honest about what's worked—and what hasn't. Whether you're running solo or managing a growing team, you'll walk away with practical takeaways and tested ideas to strengthen your agency from the inside out. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Think ChatGPT is just for writing emails? Think again. In this episode, Chris Green drops real-world prompts and jaw-dropping use cases that will make you rethink how you engage every prospect and client.Is AI just another shiny object… or the secret weapon your agency has been missing?In this high-energy episode of Insurance Town, the Flood Guru himself, Chris Green, steps into the Mayor's office and throws down example after example of how he's using ChatGPT right now to:✅ Personalize client interactions✅ improve your team's experience✅ build your own in house They ask you answer intranet ✅ Simplify complex insurance language ✅ Improve response times ✅ Drive more leads ✅ And yes… actually close more businessIf you've ever said, “I don't have time to figure out this AI stuff,” this is the episode you can't afford to skip. Chris lays out a playbook so practical, you'll be tempted to pause and try it mid-episode.

What Can a VA Do for Your Personal Lines Team? Discover the Benefits

It's halftime of 2025, and you're still in the game! Shane and Tonya break down what winning agency owners do in the second half of the year with small shifts and smart strategy. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this epsisode of Insurance Town the mayor sits down with two of his favorite people Jessica Holder and Keenan Rice on a previously recorded episode of the VIP Podcast. I am so impressed with these two, their marriage, parenting, agency, etc  this forward-thinking power couple are continuing to rise above and face various challenges head on. Jessica and Keenan have such an amazing balance at home and at the office. They have a great balance of community involvement and innovative technology at their fingertips, and lastly, they have a great balance of work and fun in their agency. We talk about:The delicate balance of marriage and co-ownership of a growing agencyHow human touch and community involvement is possible with the right technology in your agencyHow the emphases on educating their community on the intricacies of insurance is so valuable to their growthTheir powerful message of staying true to yourself and not sacrificing authenticity Get ready to be inspired and educated by this episode. It's a good thing there is a rewind button, this one is full of impactful moments.A special shout out to Vertafore for letting me reuse this episode : vertafore.com  A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

Just because a policy renewed doesn't mean your client is loyal. Shane and Tonya discuss the surprising difference between renewals and retention, explore why insurance agents often confuse the two, and why that mindset is costing them long-term business. You'll hear practical ideas for building stickiness, touchpoints that matter, and how communication style can make or break your retention strategy.  IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

You've built something, thinking about walking away, and are now asking, “Do I have it in me to start again” Shane and Tonya explore why starting over isn't a step back, it's a strategic move forward. With experience, clarity, and relationship capital on your side, this might be the smartest time to build your agency, your way. If you're still thinking about it, it's not too late. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this episode of Insurance Town, host and Mayor, Heath engages with Allen Hudson at the PIA Virginia DC Conference. They discuss the critical importance of information sharing in the insurance industry, especially for independent agents. The conversation highlights the role of technology, particularly AI, in enhancing efficiency and specialization within agencies. Allen shares insights on the resurgence of independent agents and the necessity of niche specialization to compete in a changing market. The episode concludes with advice for both new and seasoned agents on how to adapt and thrive in the evolving insurance landscape.takeawaysInformation sharing is essential for independent agencies.AI can streamline processes and improve efficiency.Niche specialization helps agencies stand out in the market.Independent agents are seeing a resurgence in demand.Proactive communication with carriers fosters better partnerships.Understanding carrier appetites is crucial for success.Technology can significantly enhance agency operations.Specialization allows for better training and support for staff.The insurance market is evolving, requiring adaptability.Building relationships with carriers can lead to better opportunities.Chapters00:00Welcome to Insurance Town02:123 people you would invite to your block party dead or alive?03:53what peice of tech could you not live without?4:45The Importance of Information Sharing5:00Embracing Technology in Insurance05:14Niche Specialization in Insurance12:25The Resurgence of Independent Agents14:26Advice for New and Existing Agents20:25Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

Selling your agency might sound like the ultimate success, but is it the best path for your financial future? Shane and Tonya discuss the options of cashing out or creating long-term, sustainable revenue. They explore what buyers are really looking for, how to structure your agency like an annuity, the emotional side of selling, and the hidden risks of “staying on” after the sale.  IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this weeks episode the mayor sits down with his good friend and 2nd tine guest in Insurance Town. Only this time These two are live in The Home of Elvis Presley!The mayor simply asked Marcus what have you learned about the insurance industry of the last year and some of the answers he gave to us blew my mind. Cause he's working and Consulting with insurance agencies and said he talks about:Insurance agencies don't treat themselves like professionals and how they can do that betterThe importance of AI, data, and automation is for your businessThis man is so inspirational so much fun you gotta check this one out. It's short sweet.“The enemy of great is not bad it's good.” Sponsors Smart Choice Agents Canopy Connect

This episode was recorded live from Memphis Tennessee at Graceland, Home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. From the PIA of Arkansas annual convention, the Mayor got to sit down with long time friend Courtney Fenske to talk about her life from Account Manager to successful Territory Manager at Accuity. She is such a value add to not only her agents but also this industry earning her multiple awards over the past few years and the respect of so many. Check out this amazing conversation and hear more from her journeys in Arkansas. Sponsored by :Smart Choice Agents - Canopy Connect - Olde Schoool Marketing And watch it on Youtube as well. 

In this engaging live podcast episode from Memphis, Heath Sheeran and Riley Talbot discuss a variety of topics ranging from music and culture to the intricacies of the insurance industry. Riley shares his journey from a college athlete to a successful insurance professional, emphasizing the importance of technology and human interaction in the field. The conversation also touches on the challenges of building a business from scratch and offers valuable advice for agents and carriers navigating the evolving landscape of insurance.Building a business from scratch requires a clear vision and adaptability.Technology should enhance, not replace, human interaction in insurance.Long-term sustainability is key for both agents and insurers.A balance between technology and personal touch is essential for growth.Riley emphasizes the importance of real-time data in decision-making.The insurance industry is evolving, and staying ahead requires innovation.Personal interests, like music and food, can enrich professional conversations.Chapters00:00Welcome to Insurance Town02:03Exploring Music and Culture04:54Riley's Journey in Insurance09:56Building a Business from Scratch12:52The Role of Technology in Insurance20:08Advice for Agents and Carriers22:50Fun and Personal Insights

In this conversation, Matt Waxman shares his journey from a marketing major to a successful figure in the insurance industry, discussing his experiences in hospitality, insurance claims, and marketing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the property market, particularly in challenging areas like Florida and Texas, and offers valuable advice for agents navigating these tough times. The discussion also touches on the evolution of his company, Alchemy Insurance Solutions, and the opportunities within the builders risk space. In this conversation, Matt Waxman and Heath Shearon delve into the complexities of Builders Risk insurance and the emerging cannabis insurance market. They discuss the importance of building strong relationships with underwriters, understanding client needs, and the necessity of educating producers on these specialized insurance products. The dialogue emphasizes the need for agents to develop pipelines for Builders Risk and the lucrative opportunities within the cannabis sector, highlighting the evolving nature of these industries and the role of Alchemy Insurance Solutions in providing comprehensive coverage solutions.takeawaysMatt Waxman has a diverse background in marketing, hospitality, and insurance.He transitioned from a marketing major to a career in insurance after exploring various fields.Waxman emphasizes the importance of building relationships in the builders risk market.The property market presents challenges, but also opportunities for agents willing to adapt.Alchemy Insurance Solutions focuses on solving pain points in the insurance market.Understanding the needs of clients is crucial for success in insurance.Waxman encourages agents to prepare thoroughly when submitting risks to underwriters.Flexibility in underwriting is essential in today's property market.The builders risk space can lead to long-term relationships with clients.Agents should not give up on finding coverage solutions for their clients. The likelihood of declination increases without proper partnerships.Understanding Builders Risk is crucial for effective insurance solutions.Building relationships with underwriters is essential for agents.Providing detailed information to underwriters enhances approval chances.Agents must sell both to clients and carriers effectively.The cannabis insurance market presents significant opportunities.Education and webinars are vital for agents to succeed in niche markets.Direct access to underwriters fosters better communication and solutions.Agents should be transparent about their knowledge in niche markets.The insurance landscape is evolving, requiring adaptability from agents.05:52Matt Waxman's Journey to Insurance10:32Cornerstone to Alchemy: Evolution of a Company18:00Navigating the Property Market Challenges20:06Advice for Agents in a Tough Market21:54Navigating the Builders Risk Landscape28:10Understanding the Role of Underwriters32:32Building a Pipeline for Builders Risk35:53Exploring the Cannabis Insurance Market40:07The Science Behind Cannabis Insurance45:53Alchemy Insurance Solutions: A Comprehensive OverviewMy amazing Sponsors;Smart ChoiceCanopy ConnectOlde School Marketing