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Today's poem is Surety by Anna Zumbahlen. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Maggie writes… “Writing is a way of memorizing moments. I know this. I do this. Because a poem can act as a portal, taking me back to a specific time and place. So often, mid-experience, I start to sense the poetic possibility of the moment. I find myself making a metaphor or grasping for imagery and descriptive language. I'm half living in the present, half processing this moment's future on the page.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
How do strong relationships within underwriting teams and between underwriters and producers shape the surety business? In this episode, we sit down with Bob Bowman of Holmes Murphy, Justin Tomlin of FNIC Group, and Rocky Pofahl and Cory Hamling of EMC to explore the vital collaboration between home office, field underwriters, and producers — and why trust, clarity, and communication drive success. Don't miss this look at the people and relationships inside the business of surety! With special guests: Bob Bowman, Surety Underwriting Manager, Holmes Murphy Justin Tomlin, Senior Vice President – Surety Manager, FNIC Group Rocky Pofahl, Assistant Vice President-Bond Underwriting Superintendent, EMC Cory Hamling, Bond Director, EMC Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP
Send a textThe room narrows when suffering lingers, and Job 17 gives that tightness a voice: corrupt breath, days that feel extinct, and graves that seem to wave from the roadside like vacancy signs at dusk. We sit with that ache and ask hard questions about what remains when the flame dips low and smoke outlasts fire. Along the way, we wrestle with the sting of mockery from people who should have been healers—friends whose certainty outpaced their compassion—and how misapplied truth can become a tool of cruelty.From there we turn to the fragile architecture of reputation. A good name, Scripture tells us, is worth more than riches, yet it's often the first casualty when pain makes us targets for easy answers. We talk about how to guard another's name, refuse lazy suspicion, and keep our counsel humane and accurate. If your instinct is to fix what you don't understand, this conversation will challenge your methods and invite you into a better ministry: presence, patience, and prayer that restores rather than indicts.At the core lies the question of rule: who sits on the throne of the heart? There's no shared sovereignty, no quiet deal-making with God. We unpack what it means to yield to Christ's reign in concrete ways—habits of confession, Scripture-shaped desires, and the daily mortification of pride and control. We also draw a boundary around fruitless debates and platform theatrics, choosing substance over spectacle and truth over noise. If you've ever felt your wick smolder more than shine, this is an invitation to steady hope: your breath still witnesses to God's care, your name can be kept, and your heart can rest under a better King.If the message helped you breathe a little easier, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs steadiness today, and leave a review to help others find their way here.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!
Send a textStop scrolling past the mission. We confront a growing habit among believers: waiting for questions, chasing arguments, and mistaking online debates for obedience to the Great Commission. Our conversation leans hard into clarity—what the gospel is, why many can't state it simply, and how assurance in Christ frees us to speak with love and conviction in ordinary places like office hallways, grocery lines, and slick winter sidewalks.We unpack the rich, legal language of Job 17 and the word surety. Job longs for someone to “strike hands” with him—an advocate who pledges himself in the divine court. That's where Jesus shines: our mediator and guarantor, the one who turns his perfect record into ours. When salvation rests on his finished work, confidence rises and fear shrinks. We tie this anchor to everyday practice: a warm greeting at work, a brief prayer before errands, a clear two-minute gospel that honors God's holiness, names our sin, proclaims the cross and resurrection, and invites faith and repentance.Along the way, we get honest about fatigue and discouragement. Some of us feel worn thin from serving, grieving, or feeling out of place. We meet that ache with Scripture, prayer, and community care, urging one another to operate from overflow, not fumes. Small obedience matters. Kindness opens doors. The Spirit revives the encourager even as we encourage others. And because Christ is our surety, our footing is secure—so we can take holy risks, speak plainly, and love people well without waiting for the perfect moment.If this sparks you to trade debates for invitations, subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review with one practical step you'll take to share the gospel this week.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!
Send a textWhat holds when everything else shakes? We walk through Job's raw plea for vindication and discover a blazing center of hope: Christ stands as our surety, not our performance. From the opening challenge to the final amen, we trace how a battered saint finds footing by appealing to God's justice, not his own strength—and why that same move frees modern believers from the fear of losing what Jesus secured.We talk candidly about the claim that “you can lose salvation,” and why that teaching crushes tender consciences and shrinks the cross. Job's story confronts us: even when God feels severe, faith runs to the very One who afflicts and says, Justify me by your righteousness. That is not denial; it is trust in the character of God. Along the way, we wrestle with the pain of “miserable comforters,” those closest to us who offer harsh judgment instead of mercy. The panel shares personal moments of suffering, the steadying work of the Holy Spirit, and the way Scripture—not trends—heals the soul from the inside out.You'll hear practical wisdom on loving family who reject the gospel, recognizing enemies without becoming embittered, and planting seeds with patience. We explore how God sometimes withholds understanding from the proud, why perseverance is the Spirit's gift from start to finish, and how the name Israel—those who prevail with God—describes the believer who clings rather than quits. We end by rejecting labels that divide Christ's body and by fixing our eyes on the Advocate who lives to intercede.If this conversation strengthens your grip on grace, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a review so others can find this message of assurance. What promise are you holding onto today?Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!
Send a textWhat if love looks like walking away sooner than you think? We open with a candid look at how race, class, and tribe still slice through the church, then set a firmer anchor: Christ calls one people without distinction. From there, the conversation turns to a thorny pastoral moment online—after countless rounds with a persistent critic, is it faithfulness to reengage or wisdom to step back? We ask where discernment meets courage, and why trying harder isn't the same as bearing fruit.Together we face a bracing claim from Job: sometimes God withholds understanding. That truth doesn't license apathy; it frees us from the illusion that better arguments guarantee changed hearts. We explore a practical path: try once, try twice, maybe a third time if unsure, then shake the dust and pray. Not because truth is weak, but because love is patient enough to stop pushing and start interceding. Along the way we revisit Paul's talk of the “foolishness” of preaching, the roles of planting, watering, and harvesting, and how prayer becomes the work that outlasts our words.We then zoom out to the tools in our hands. Social media isn't a fad; it's the modern printing press with two-way power. That can terrify or it can energize, depending on how we steward it. We share why we keep our messages crisp and focused, how brevity sharpens thought, and how distributing conversations across dozens of platforms can carry the gospel farther without diluting it. Finally, we wrestle honestly with Job 17:5 across translations—flattery, betrayal, and the cost of harming a friend under holy-sounding words—owning our uncertainty while holding fast to what is clear.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who's weary of endless arguments, and leave a review to help more people find these conversations. What's your cue to stop debating and start praying?Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!
Send a textA single line in Job 17 brings our study to a full stop—and that pause becomes the point. We pull up multiple translations, compare how “flattery,” “denounce,” and “betray” shift the verse's force, and ask an honest question: who is speaking to whom, and what does it mean for the eyes of children to fail? Instead of forcing a tidy reading, we model how to think with Scripture—slowing down, weighing context, and letting the Bible interpret the Bible.As we trace the proverb-like shape of Job's words, we talk about speech that forms character and the sobering possibility of generational fallout. Is this about smooth talk masking harm, or about friends weaponizing truth out of season? We look to Psalm 69 to echo Job's tone of weary hope and consider how inherited patterns can dull vision over time. Along the way, we keep our theological feet on the ground: faith can be steady even when emotions are not, and humility in interpretation protects both the text and the people we love.Life breaks into the study when a listener shares a raw season—marriage in crisis, housing uncertain, heart unsteady. That confession turns exegesis into practice. We rally in prayer, pull strength from Ephesians' call to walk as children of light, and name the difference between happiness and joy. The thread through it all is simple and strong: when Scripture stumps us, we don't pretend; we persevere together. Come hear a community wrestle with Job 17, compare translations with care, and turn hard questions into deeper trust. If this resonates, subscribe, share the episode with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review to help others find the study.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!
Most real estate investors have never heard of surety bonds, yet these little-known financial tools can determine whether a project finishes on time—or falls apart. In this episode, Brian Hamrick talks with Gary Eastman, attorney turned entrepreneur and founder of Axcess Surety and Swiftbonds, two of the nation's leading surety bond brokerages. After 17 years as General Counsel for Fortune 500 companies, Gary discovered how surety bonds quietly drive the $22 billion construction and development industry. Gary explains why every developer, investor, and property owner should understand how surety bonds protect capital, guarantee performance, and keep projects moving even when contractors fail or materials run short. You'll learn: What a surety bond actually is—and how it differs from insurance How surety bonds protect investors from contractor default, liens, and delays Real-world examples of bonds preventing multimillion-dollar losses Why material shortages and labor constraints are making bonds more essential than ever How lenders are beginning to require bonds for new development projects The cost-benefit math behind when to bond and when not to How Gary uses AI to analyze project data and identify emerging risks in real estate If you're investing in multifamily, development, or rehab projects, this conversation will change how you think about risk management in real estate.
In Today's Episode: Host: Brandon Elliott, https://zez.am/brandonelliottinvestments Guest: with Gary Eastman ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Resourceful Links: How To Get Up To $500,000 Every 6 Months At 0%: https://www.creditcounselelite.com/ Get Your Most Accurate Credit Report:https://myfreescorenow.com/enroll/?AID=COUNSELELITELLC&PID=18983 Best Credit Cards: https://milevalue.com/best-credit-cards/?aff=cce Free Credit Education Resources: https://creditcounselelite.com/articles Guide to Taking Massive Action: https://amzn.to/2IZMN8Z LEARN MORE CLICK HERE: https://www.creditcounselelite.com/fb-start-here ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Meet Your Host, Brandon: Brandon Elliott went from being off track finding himself on house arrest and burning 40% of his body to getting on track reaching $8.5 million in Assets and being acknowledged part of the "Top 100 Yahoo Finance" by using Credit Cards to buy small multi-family and scaling his businesses using the exact strategies taught in Credit Counsel Elite (CCE). CCE teaches business owners how to get up to $500,000 every 6 months at 0%. By being a member with CCE, you get to learn how to Travel Hack, get access to the 800 FICO Score Club in 30 days or less, fix credit quickly, receive $5K-15K+ of free sign up bonuses, buy Real Estate with Credit Cards, deep dive into Business Credit and Personal credit. To learn more visit: https://www.creditcounselelite.com/ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Connect with Brandon Elliott: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandonelliottinvestor YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandonElliottInvestments Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonelliottinvestments LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-elliott-6b1643148
In this episode of Constructive, we sit down with Gary Eastman, President of SwiftBonds and Axcess Surety. Bonding is the "oxygen" of the construction industry, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood parts of the business.If you have ever felt stuck at a certain revenue ceiling, Gary explains how to unlock the next level of your company. We discuss why a surety bond is a guarantee—not insurance—and how it acts as the key to graduating from small residential jobs to major public and commercial projects. Gary shares tactical advice on managing your books, the importance of "velocity of money," and how to avoid the "red flags" that kill your bonding capacity.In this episode, you'll learn:The Surety Secret: Why bonding is a three-party guarantee and how it differs from risk-sharing insurance.Scaling Your Capacity: The three tiers of bonding and how to move from "credit-based" to "full underwriting".The $1M Strategy: A thought experiment on how to take $50,000 and turn it into a million-dollar bond line in two years.Future-Proofing: How AI and data analytics are replacing the "retiring 50-year veteran" to keep projects efficient and safe.SwiftBonds: swiftbonds.com Axcess Surety: axcess-surety.com Music: https://www.bensound.comLicense code: DSEV5SKEXGAJTELKArtist: Roman SenykConnect with Gary EastmanMusic Credits
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Rancho Mesa's Alyssa Burley sits down with Surety Group Leader Andy Roberts to talk about why contractors should have a year-end meeting with their surety company and agent.Show Notes: Subscribe to Rancho Mesa's Newsletter.Director/Host: Alyssa BurleyGuest: Andy RobertsProducer/Editor: Jadyn BrandtMusic: "Home" by JHS Pedals, “Breaking News Intro” by nem0production© Copyright 2025. Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved.
Global Investors: Foreign Investing In US Real Estate with Charles Carillo
What is a surety bond in real estate, and why is it NOT insurance? Most people misunderstand how surety bonds actually work and that confusion can lead to costly mistakes in real estate deals. In this video, we break down surety bonds in real estate in simple terms. You'll learn how surety bonds work, who they protect, and why they're required for real estate developers, property managers, and licensed professionals. We also explain the key difference between surety bonds vs insurance, a distinction most people get wrong. If you've ever wondered how property owners stay protected when a developer walks away from a project or why states require surety bonds for real estate licensing, this video will give you clarity. What You'll Learn in This Video What a surety bond is in real estate Why surety bonds are not insurance The 3 parties in a surety bond (principal, obligee, surety) How surety bonds protect property owners and government agencies Common real estate surety bonds (performance, licensing, property management) What happens when a surety bond is claimed Connect with the Global Investors Show, Charles Carillo and Harborside Partners: ◾ Setup a FREE 30 Minute Strategy Call with Charles: http://ScheduleCharles.com ◾ Learn How To Invest In Real Estate: https://www.SyndicationSuperstars.com/ ◾ FREE Passive Investing Guide: http://www.HSPguide.com ◾ Join Our Weekly Email Newsletter: http://www.HSPsignup.com ◾ Passively Invest in Real Estate: http://www.InvestHSP.com ◾ Global Investors Web Page: http://GlobalInvestorsPodcast.com/
Rancho Mesa's Alyssa Burley and Account Executive of the Surety Department Josh Hill talk about how utilizing reviewed financials can help contractors improve their surety program.Show Notes: Subscribe to Rancho Mesa's Newsletter.Director/Host: Alyssa BurleyGuest: Josh HillProducer/Editor: Megan LockhartMusic: "Home" by JHS Pedals, “Breaking News Intro” by nem0production© Copyright 2025. Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved.
PASSAGE: Matthew 11:1-6 OUTLINE: 1. Take Your Doubts to Christ 2. Take Christ Over Your Doubts The post Matthew | King & Kingdom | Christ Our Surety In Uncertainty first appeared on Redeemer Bible Church.
In this episode, Adam Torres interviews Valery Tan, CEO & Co-Founder of Surety Singapore, as part of the Milken Asia Summit coverage. Inspired by her mother's perimenopause journey, Valery explains why midlife and menopause remain deeply stigmatized in Asia and how that impacts women at home and at work. She shares how Surety Singapore uses education, medically reviewed content, workplace programs, and community-building to help women — and their colleagues — better understand and support midlife transitions. Valery's mission is to make midlife visible, dignified, and inclusive, reframing it as the start of a new chapter rather than the end of one. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Let's Get Surety®, we sit down with Brad Robinson of Ward & Robinson, a CPA who has served on the financial leadership teams of both general contractors and subcontractors. Brad brings a unique, dual-perspective lens to today's most pressing risk-management challenges. Brad shares hard-won lessons from the field, including where prequalification processes often break down, how subs can better position themselves, how General Contractors evaluate risk, and why a strong surety relationship is one of the most valuable differentiators in today's market. Smart, practical, and candid—this is an episode every surety and construction professional should hear. With special guest: Brad Robinson, Partner, Ward & Robinson LLC Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, Gary Eastman discusses the current state of the real estate market, emphasizing the importance of relationships and understanding global changes. He highlights the need for businesses to adapt to market conditions, the significance of building strong networks, and the impact of geopolitical shifts on future opportunities. The discussion underscores the value of integrity and the role of people in driving business success. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
“Thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty.” — Isaiah 33:17 The more you know about Christ the less will you be satisfied with superficial views of Him; and the more deeply you study His transactions in the eternal covenant, His engagements on your behalf as the eternal Surety, and the fulness of His […]
In this compelling teaching, Servant Marcia Carty breaks down the critical difference between the Old and New Covenants with God, offering powerful encouragement for believers navigating today's challenging world. The message is a reminder that God is faithful and His promises, confirmed by His own oath, are the anchor for our souls. The discussion covers: -- Individual Accountability: God established that each soul is accountable for its own actions and sins; the proverb about the father's sins being carried by the son is no longer applicable (Ezekiel 18). -- God's Desire for Life: God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires that all should repent, turn from their ways, and live. -- The Failure of the First Covenant: The Israelites broke the original covenant, leading to judgment, but God, in His mercy, established a better way. -- The New Covenant in Christ: Jesus is the Surety and Mediator of a better covenant, which is established upon better promises—specifically, God's oath by Himself, making it impossible for Him to lie. -- One Way to God: We must approach God through the single avenue He designed: Jesus Christ, who lives forever to intercede for us. -- Sanctification Through Jesus: We are sanctified (set apart) through the offering of the body and blood of Jesus Christ, once for all. -- Living in the 'Days of Noah': The current world conditions of great violence, advanced knowledge (AI), and spiritual corruption are signs that Jesus' return is near. Believers must hold fast to their faith and operate in their authority. Scriptures for Further Study -- Ezekiel 17:16-24 -- Ezekiel 18:3-32 -- Hebrews 6:13-20 -- Hebrews 7:22-28 -- Hebrews 8:6-13 -- Hebrews 9:13-28 -- Hebrews 10:9-25 +++++++ We have begun building a new website which you can see here: https://www.noahdays.org/
Curious about the state of the surety industry? Ryan Work, President and CEO of The Surety & Fidelity Association of America, joins the hosts of Let's Get Surety to break down key trends, legislative priorities, and how data is aiding surety industry advocacy efforts. Additionally, he discusses the recent surge in private bonding, 2025 Q2's surprising loss ratio drop, and how SFAA's Foundation invests in future talent. Don't miss this timely overview of the numbers and insights driving surety interests forward today. Get more info on the EY study mentioned during this episode or listen to the Virtual Event and explanation by SFAA's Peter Roth. With special guest: Ryan Work, President & CEO, The Surety & Fidelity Association of America Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editors David Bank and Amy Cortese. Up this week: At Neighborhood Economics in Chicago, entrepreneurship through acquisition and other promising ideas are filling out the playbook for shared prosperity; How ExxonMobil's new voting program for retail investors aims to change the balance of power in corporate governance. And, how reinsurer GreenieRE is bringing the concept of surety bonds to help scale climate tech investments.Story links:“Expanding ‘entrepreneurship through acquisition' for inclusive wealth creation in the US and Canada,”“Investors who refuse to take a loyalty oath to ExxonMobil should decline to join its ‘retail voting program,'” by As You Sow's Andrew Behar“GreenieRe sees ‘impact insurance' surety bonds as the key to scaling climate tech,” by Amy Cortese
Host Brian Walsh takes up ImpactAlpha's top stories with editors David Bank and Amy Cortese. Up this week: At Neighborhood Economics in Chicago, entrepreneurship through acquisition and other promising ideas are filling out the playbook for shared prosperity; How ExxonMobil's new voting program for retail investors aims to change the balance of power in corporate governance. And, how reinsurer GreenieRE is bringing the concept of surety bonds to help scale climate tech investments.Story links:“Expanding ‘entrepreneurship through acquisition' for inclusive wealth creation in the US and Canada,”“Investors who refuse to take a loyalty oath to ExxonMobil should decline to join its ‘retail voting program,'” by As You Sow's Andrew Behar“GreenieRe sees ‘impact insurance' surety bonds as the key to scaling climate tech,” by Amy Cortese
We live in a time when most sermons are like "how-to" manuals. Five easy steps to a healthy marriage... Strategies for overcoming the daily doldrums... Sure-fire methods for putting pride in its place. But sometimes, it's simply good to bask in the wonder and marvel of our salvation. Peter does so as he begins his first epistle and we'll join him as we look at the Source, Substance, and Surety of our Salvation.
Rancho Mesa's Alyssa Burley and Account Executive of the Surety Department Josh Hill talk about maintaining strong banking relationships that support a business' surety bonding capacity.Show Notes: Subscribe to Rancho Mesa's Newsletter.Director/Host: Alyssa BurleyGuest: Josh HillProducer/Editor: Megan LockhartMusic: "Home" by JHS Pedals, “Breaking News Intro” by nem0production© Copyright 2025. Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved.
Curious how a surety professional can influence the laws that protect our industry? Join us as our guests, Larry LeClair of NASBP, Alan Starks of Christensen Group Insurance, and Matt Cocco of Smith Brothers Insurance, as they discuss why advocacy is vital to the surety industry, how easy and rewarding the Federal Legislative Fly-in is, and how you can make a real impact in Washington. Get more information on attending the Federal Legislative Fly-in now! Don't miss it! Also check out the Surety Bond Quarterly article titled, "A Family Experience at the Legislative Fly-in" mentioned during this episode! With special guests: Larry LeClair, Director, Government Relations, NASBP Alan Starks, NASBP's GR Committee Chair and Senior Vice President – Surety, Christensen Group Insurance Matt Cocco, NASBP's GR Committee Vice Chair and Surety Risk Advisor, Partner, Smith Brothers Insurance Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!
How does a surety company with South American roots break into the U.S. market? In this episode of “Let's Get Surety,” Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum talk with Andrés Álamos and Sharyl Markovits of Avla US about entering the Texas surety market, facing challenges, and serving small and mid-size contractors using tech-driven solutions. Hear how they feel their global experience can lead to local successes in the US. With special guests: Andrés Álamos, CEO, Avla US and Sharyl Markovits, Head of Contract Surety, Avla US Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!
Guest Mary Smith, Smith Bonds and Surety and former VP of National Association of Bail Bonds, joins to discuss ongoing battle to protect the right of bail bonds. Discussion of Trump's latest executive order to end cashless bail. What does that mean? Discussion of state funded bonds, criminals skipping court dates, and reforming the criminal justice process. Residence of DC admit they feel safer in community after Trump cleans up the streets with National Guard. Who else is enjoying the safer streets...but refuse to admit it?
Pastor Wayne Van Gelderen shares biblical truth that will bring hope and comfort in these uncertain days. May we draw closer to God through this time and impact those around us for eternity. https://fallsbaptist.org https://baptistcollege.org https://www.theegeneration.org https://ontovictorypress.com If you'd like to support this ministry - https://fallsbaptist.org/give/
Are you curious about a dynamic and rewarding career you may not have heard of? Join us for a conversation with Darrel Lamb, Senior Vice President at Old Republic Surety. We discuss the entrepreneurial spirit, the importance of relationship-building, and the real-world impact of careers in surety. Discover why surety professionals find their jobs so fulfilling and how they contribute to community development, solve problems, and thrive in this specialized industry! With special guest: Darrel Lamb, Senior Vice President – Business Development, Old Republic Surety Company Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!
James Crinnion, Vice President Commercial Surety at Philadelphia Insurance Companies, said that over the last five years, there's been an explosion in surety-backed letters of credit. “There's always been a push and pull between the surety industry and the banking industry,” he said.
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Curious about reinsurance and its impacts in the surety market? Join us on this episode as we chat with experts Brian Fiore of Aon, Stephen Haney of Chubb Surety, and Jeff Ryan of Partner Re to uncover what reinsurance is, why it is important to the surety market, and how it can drive growth, manage risk, and support major infrastructure projects. Plus, don't miss a lighthearted debate on the best Philly cheesesteak! Check out episode #135 Unveiling America's Infrastructure: Progress, Problems and Possibilities for more about the latest ASCE Infrastructure Report Card that was mentioned during this episode. With special guests: Brian Fiore, Senior Managing Director, Aon Stephen Haney, Division President, North America Surety, and Chief Underwriting Officer, Global Surety, Chubb Surety Jeff Ryan, Business Unit Leader, Financial Risks, Partner Re Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!
Accounting standards can have quite an impact on surety, but how is the surety industry involved in shaping those standards? Dive into this episode of Let's Get Surety as we talk with David Pesce, Head of Surety with Munich Re Specialty - North America, about the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and its Private Company Council (PCC). Discover how these groups shape financial reporting and why and how surety professionals can get involved. Tune in for insights, examples, and how you can be part of the process! With special guest: David Pesce, Head of Surety, Munich Re Specialty - North America Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!
In this episode of the Power Producers Shop Talk, David Carothers shares an insightful conversation with Ciara Gravier from The Bunker Insurance & Risk Management and Zach Matter from ZipBonds. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved with contractors, particularly those navigating the world of surety bonds. Ciara and Zach discuss how contractors can face challenges with messy financials and how these issues can impact their ability to qualify for larger projects. They dive into the importance of having tidy books, understanding bond requirements, and using bonds as a way to build strong client relationships. Zach also highlights the essential three C's for bond approval—character, capacity, and capital—and explains how producers can add value by properly presenting these factors to underwriters. This episode is packed with practical strategies for agents to help contractors and clients navigate the complexities of surety bonds while building stronger, more profitable relationships. Key Highlights: Understanding Bonds for Contractors Ciara explains how she used bonds as an educational tool to connect with contractors and help them understand the importance of having clean financials. She also shares how SEO and email marketing strategies can help agents engage contractors on bond topics. The Three C's of Bond Approval Zach breaks down the three key factors for bond approval: character, capacity, and capital, and how agents can provide valuable insights to help contractors qualify for bonds. Expanding the Bond Conversation Beyond Construction Zach emphasizes that bonds aren't just for construction. From liquor licenses to ERISA bonds for 401(k) plans, many industries require bonds, making it an essential conversation for all agents to have with their clients. Using Bonds as a Client Relationship Builder Ciara shares how she leveraged bonds to build relationships with CPAs, contractors, and even business attorneys, turning bonds into a valuable revenue stream and referral source. Subcontractor Default Insurance vs. Surety Bonds Zach talks about the growing use of subcontractor default insurance (SDI) and how it can impact the bond process. He explains the additional work involved when a subcontractor cannot qualify for SDI and how to handle it as a producer. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Zach Matter LinkedIn Ciara Gravier LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp ZipBonds The Bunker Insurance & Risk Management Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
In today's Morning Manna, we unpack the entire weight of a single verse—Proverbs 6:1. What seems like a simple handshake or promise can quickly become a snare for your future. Solomon warns us about the hidden dangers of becoming surety for another person, whether in finances, relationships, or careless commitments. This isn't just ancient financial advice—it's wisdom for guarding your freedom, your integrity, and your future. Before you make promises, co-sign loans, or obligate yourself in ways God never intended—pause and listen. One verse. Big consequences.Join the leading community for Conservative Christians! https://www.FaithandValues.comYou can partner with us by visiting https://www.FaithandValues.com/donate, calling 1-800-576-2116, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961.Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves!https://www.AmericanReserves.comIt's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today!https://www.amazon.com/Final-Day-Characteristics-Second-Coming/dp/0578260816/Apple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books! https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/final-day-10-characteristics-of-the-second-coming/id1687129858Purchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today. https://www.sacrificingliberty.com/watchThe Fauci Elf is a hilarious gift guaranteed to make your friends laugh! Order yours today! https://tru.news/faucielf
Curious how careers grow in the surety industry? Join us as we chat with Heidi Rodzen of Skillings Shaw & Associates, Matt Curran of Sompo, and David Hoover of Acrisure, as they share their real-world paths into surety, the power of mentorship, leadership insights, and how to build your future in this dynamic, relationship-driven field. Get more information about NASBP's Surety Schools that were mentioned during this episode. With special guests: Heidi Rodzen, Assistant Vice President of Surety Operations, Skillings Shaw & Associates, Inc., Matt Curran, EVO, Head of Surety, Sompo, and David Hoover, Senior Vice President, Acrisure, South Division Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!
What is the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, how did it originate, and where do we currently stand? Join us for this episode where industry experts unpack the BEAD program, the policy change to allow for performance bonds as an alternative to letters of credit for required security, and what surety professionals need to know and consider. You'll hear how surety professionals can approach BEAD grant recipients and internet service providers so they understand the advantages of bonding. Check out the BEAD Program Surety Bond Information Kit mentioned during this episode and subscribe to NASBP's Focal Point to stay up-to-date on BEAD and other key legislative and regulatory developments related to surety. With special guests: Lawrence LeClair, Director, Government Relations, NASBP, Philip Macres, Principal, Klein Law Group, PLLC, Cory Sanderson, Home Office Underwriting Manager, The Hartford, and Joseph Henson, Senior Consultant, Widelity Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!
Aaron Steffey is the co-founder and co-CEO of Propeller, an online platform that enables insurance agents and brokers to issue surety bonds instantly — without the lengthy paperwork or back-and-forth typically involved in bonding. Aaron was an insurance agent, and his co-founder cousin, Chris, was a surety bond underwriter before 2019, when they set out to revolutionize the way surety bonds are bought and sold. They initially bootstrapped with a software development partner who accepted equity instead of fees. Their first version drastically simplified the process of buying and selling surety bonds in the digital world, allowing them to grow quickly. They raised $7 million in SAFE notes from strategic partners to accelerate growth in 2021 and grow to nearly $20 million in revenue. They sold 100% of the company to Arch Capital in a strategic acquisition in early 2024. In this episode, Aaron also talks about: How this sleepy, paper-based market changed quickly in COVID Why they raised growth funding from strategic investors and not VCs Why they sold the company and are still leading the business after the sale Quote from Aaron Steffey, co-founder and co-CEO of Propeller “My biggest advice for startup founders is simply just that endurance wins. It's the whole thing of getting back up after you're knocked down, like everyone says. I had to live that so many times. So many No's when it came to our first carrier pulling out. No, I don't want to invest. No, I don't want to use your surety product. “There were so many times when I wanted to give up. And the same with my cousin. Had we not founded the company together, I don't know that we would have continued because there were probably times when I would have given up. “As long as both of us weren't on the floor, one of us would just pick the other up when the other person usually was more sane, and we dragged each other along. “A successful founder needs to have a pretty high pain tolerance and endurance to succeed. You just have to keep pushing forward. It just sounds so cliche, but that's what it was for us.” Links Aaron Steffey on LinkedIn Propeller on LinkedIn Propeller website Arch Capital website The Practical Founders Podcast Tune into the Practical Founders Podcast for weekly in-depth interviews with founders who have built valuable software companies without big funding. Subscribe to the Practical Founders Podcast using your favorite podcast app or view on our YouTube channel. Get the weekly Practical Founders newsletter and podcast updates at practicalfounders.com.
Names in Genesis; How to get back to the Tree of Life; City-states = civil structures; Making laws; Law of Nature; Implied contracts; Questioning your knowledge; Seeking Holy Spirit; Telling whole truth; Lot sitting in the gates of Sodom; Binding of cities; Idol worshipers; Respecters of persons; Freedom from Bondage; Salvation theories; Is Jesus your God?; Biting one another; Symbolic rituals; Prov 3:5 Trust in the Lord, lean NOT ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING; Ps 91; Journey of Abraham trusting in the Lord; "Son of God"; Ruling over other people?; Understanding world events; Genesis 20:1; Zoar; Philistines; Deception leading to bondage; Sons of Jacob or Israel; Changes in the journey; Laws and commandments; Subject to interpretation; Other "gods"?; Surety (for debt) of the people; Bondage of Egypt; Taking disadvantages with benefits; Reattaining freedom; Seeking righteousness; Repentance; Mark of the Beast; Gen 20:8; Trying to thwart evil?; Doing what Jesus said; Deeds; Seeing the whole truth about yourself; Humility; Forgiveness; Charity = love; Fear not!; Debate?; Today's iniquity; Welfare snares; Fleshpots; The role of The Church; Being Doers of The Word; "Kindness"; Abraham's admission; Birth rate; Gen 13:17; Gen 14:7; Enmeshing?; Gerar: Between Kadesh (holy/separate) and Shur?; Know thyself; Born again?; Shur = Fasting, Depriving self of comfort, protection from the world; Social welfare of Rome; Marcus Aurelius; Christening of babies; Pure religion; One-child contract in China; Responsibility for debt; Where is your righteousness?; Depending on faith, hope and charity; Free assembly; Spiritual revelation; "Libera res publica"; Seek the righteousness of God.
Curious how a fifth-generation insurance professional found his unexpected passion as a surety bond producer? Join us as we get to know NASBP 2025-2026 President Robert Coon. Robert shares stories regarding his career, journey as an NASBP member, volunteer, and leader, and how his experiences led him to his theme, “Building Better.” Follow the links below to get more information on these topics mentioned by Robert during this episode: the producer's toolkit, joining a NASBP Committee, and more information on attending NASBP Fall meetings. And, if you share Robert's passion for the efficiencies gained through technology advancements, check out these related episodes and Virtual Seminars. With special guest: Robert Coon, Vice President - Surety, Scott Insurance Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!
Make sure and check out Pastor Cody's Easter message, "Jesus...Our Surety." As surety for you and I, Jesus paid the price by dying one death for all -- He was THE sacrifice for sin and literally exchanged places with us! This message will encourage and challenge you to walk FREE in what has been paid for for YOU!