Agency Intelligence

Discover how to revolutionize your insurance business as we chat with the incredible Shawn Fitzgerald of the Scratch Agency podcast. Shawn's unique blend of progressive technology and prospecting techniques, combined with a respect for traditional methods, will give you the edge you need in today's competitive market. Together, we'll explore the importance of finding freedom within ourselves, overcoming limitations, and navigating the challenges of the current economic crisis. Dive into the world of carrier sales centers as we discuss how they can help you maximize efficiency and grow your business. Learn the ins and outs of working with carrier representatives and customer service centers and the advantages of carving out a niche for yourself in the insurance industry. We'll also reveal the power of AI tools like ByWordAI, Chat GPT, and Grammarly in revolutionizing your blog writing process, saving you precious time and resources. Finally, we get personal with Shawn as we discuss the mental and emotiona

What if you could win 12-15 signed Broker of Record Letters from your prospects in the next six months? How profitable would that be for you? Well, that's what one of my "12X Commission Mastermind" members accomplished for his agency in just the first six months of 2023, and since becoming a Mastermind member now only a total of seven (7) months ago.  In this episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, my guest is Illinois-based agency owner Ryan Cox and he shares what he's doing to prospect, to set appointments, and to win new business via BOR. And ... if you're interested in learning more about the "12X Commission Mastermind" then visit either www.12X.Club or go directly to: https://permissiongroup.com/mastermind/ Episode Highlights: Ryan discusses his involvement in the management of employee benefit plans and medical insurance for small and midsize businesses. (2:19) Ryan shares what led him to shift his attention to the Denver area and what made it so successful. (4:31) Ryan mentions the

Our industry is not short on ideas. But implementation is a completely different mindset. Larry Linne, CEO of InCite Performance Group, joins us this week to talk about how to properly execute your strategy as an insurance agent. Execution requires discipline, and partial execution leads to partial results. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/ Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com/ InCite Performance Group: https://incitepg.com/ LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515/ Ryan Brott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brott-cepa%C2%AE-77a278a/ Larry Linne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrylinne/ This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate ac

In this throwback episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Kim Beach, Founder & CEO of InsureWomen. Kim is an agency owner who is focusing on bringing insurance solutions specifically to women, to niche, and provide the care and coverage they need. Episode Highlights: Kim shares her career background. (2:53) What really surprised Kim when she first started out in insurance? (4:53) Kim shares what she found interesting after watching the movie, The Founder. (6:53) Kim discusses gender roles within the industry and some of the feedback she’s received. (10:29) Kim mentions their goals at InsureWomen. (11:51) Kim shares where she envisions InsureWomen, five years from now. (14:06) What were some of the first impressions of Kim’s platform? (16:57) Kim explains the most hilarious thing about rough notes. (20:10) What sort of changes has Kim been seeing in the industry recently? (30:46) Key Quotes: “I feel like I'm on a mission now, and I think that could happen to an

In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Jeremy Goodrich, Owner of Shine Insurance Agency. Episode Highlights: Jason shares his personal interpretation of what success means. (2:56) Jeremy discusses the five freedoms that form the foundation of everyone's vision for success: money, time, location, relationships, and health. (5:43) Jeremy explains how active income and passive income differ, and suggests ways for agency owners to increase their passive income using their existing business. (12:05) Jason and Jeremy discuss the strategy of recruiting revenue-generating team members as a means to grow an agency, even when the owner isn't actively working. (14:24) Jeremy mentions the importance of cultivating a supportive culture and team within the insurance agency industry as a basis for growth. (21:01) Jeremy explains that by delegating tasks, we can attain success and realize our five freedoms, even if this process takes some time. (24:38) Jeremy expresses his be

In this solo episode, James shares perspective on some of the negative side effects or dangers of being a highly driven, competitive and ambitious person. Visit our website to join our email list, get the scoop on our LIVE coaching calls and never miss an episode: https://www.agencyfreedom.com Connect with Agency Freedom Podcast on Facebook at the Agency Freedom Podcast group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@agencyfreedom.com with ideas, questions, complaints or your favorite grilling recipe.

Join me as I dive into an enlightening conversation with Kimi Donahue, senior agency success manager at Openly. Discover her inspiring journey in the insurance industry and how her passion for connecting with others through music has played a role in her success. Kimi opens up about living with Tourette's and its impact on her communication skills. We delve into the importance of understanding neurodiversity, providing feedback, and exploring the potential dangers of falling into a victim mentality. Learn how to better communicate with neurodivergent individuals and foster an environment of understanding and acceptance. Finally, listen as Kimi and I discuss respect, freedom, and relationship communication. We explore the power of respectful differentiation, personal agency, and improvement. Hear how striving for excellence can help you further develop your unique skills and talents. Don't miss this insightful and thought-provoking episode with the amazing Kimi Donahue! Episode Highlights: Kimmy shares

In this throwback episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Kelly Donahue-Piro, President at Agency Performance Partners. Kelly and Teresa talk about all things agency ownership, how to step into our power, and rock being a boss.  Episode Highlights: Kelly mentions one of the things they try to fight for, within the agency. (4:54) Kelly shares her background and how she got into the insurance industry. (7:49) What are some of the key factors that people working in agencies or agency owners struggle with? (12:57) Kelly explains why women have a stronger challenge with accountability and communication than other people do. (18:54) Kelly mentions why she likes identifying roles. (19:31) Kelly shares why she wants the women to be in tune with something personal, whatever their goal is. (21:19) Kelly mentions how the online school came about. (24:57) Kelly explains how she came up with the idea to launch an online school. (26:49) Key Quotes: “If you really invest in yo

This episode of "Talkin' Tech" with Danny Lawrence on the MVP Podcast! Co-Host Danny Lawrence sits down with Aureus Analytics very own, Thomas Mann to discuss IndieTech and the career path that led him to the great team over at Aureus Analytics! Donna for Agents is one of the most impressive pieces of technology in the market place and is something your agency should take a look at! Episode Highlights: Thomas shares his decision to join Aureus Analytics and his passion for being a part of the change happening in the insurance industry. (12:43)  Thomas discusses the difference between IndieTech and InsurTech and why the IndieTech Showcase is important for the independent insurance industry to filter out the noise and focus on actionable technology for their day-to-day operations. (21:39) Thomas explains the features of Donna for Agents, a consultative interface that integrates data from an Agency Management System and provides coverage-based recommendations. (34:53) Thomas shares three concepts that ar

In this episode of Agents Influence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Austin Moorhead, Founder of Lava Automation. Episode Highlights: Jason shares the perspective that technology when maximized, can enhance internal camaraderie and allow employees to devote more time to the agency. (12:12) Austin explains how custom reports can display data related to the successes and failures of campaigns, assisting in long-term campaign modifications. (16:01) Austin shares his experiences attending various spring conferences, including BrainShare in New Orleans. (25:37) Jason makes a comparison between two insurance conferences, Applied and Netview, discussing their respective energy and excitement levels. (27:24) Austin discusses the significance of employing a CRM and maintaining community engagement but also cautions against the distraction of the latest technology trends. (31:44) Key Quotes: “I would love to welcome more people to do what we do. I think that there is such a burden in the P&C, but maybe

Are you a crusty old insurance agent who hates BORs? If you are, then, goodbye. (I doubt you'd be reading this anyway if you were). However ... If you're a savvy, hungry, passionate insurance agent who wants to win and not lose, then today's topic is for you.  In this episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will explain to you why going after the BOR makes more sense than offering quotes, but also why there is nothing wrong with quoting ... so long as you're being wise about getting what you want out of the relationship. And, if you're interested in leveling up your sales game, visit www.12x.club and consider joining the 12X Commission Mastermind to learn how to build a $1,000,000 or more Book of Business through a signed Broker of Record Letters. Episode Highlights: Charles discusses the importance of both quoting and pursuing the Broker of Record letter in the insurance industry. (3:38) Charles explains that when presenting quotes, insurance producers must focus on bri

In this episode, James talks with Adam Boca, Executive Director at NCM Insurance Agency. To learn more about NCM Insurance Agency, visit https://www.ncminsurance.com/. Visit our website to join our email list, get the scoop on our LIVE coaching calls and never miss an episode: https://www.agencyfreedom.com Connect with Agency Freedom Podcast on Facebook at the Agency Freedom Podcast group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@agencyfreedom.com with ideas, questions, complaints or your favorite grilling recipe. Episode Highlights: Adam discusses his business model, which is very organic and does not involve cold calling or buying leads. (6:27) Adam believes that having mentors in the insurance industry and setting attainable goals is important. (10:59) Adam shares his experience learning compliance and licensing, and how they improve the customer journey by listening to feedback from clients. (18:04) Adam discusses how they build a positive culture in their small office, i

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Brian Falchuk, author of The Future of Insurance, as we explore the exciting potential of traditional insurance carriers collaborating with insurtech solution providers. Brian shares valuable lessons from his experience in the industry, emphasizing the need to push boundaries, try new things, and adopt a fresh perspective on success. Together, we tackle the challenges insurance professionals face in delivering successful collaborations and highlight the revolutionary potential of AI and technology within the industry. This fascinating discussion delves into the incentives driving insurance carriers and the importance of shifting our perspective on success. We emphasize the need to avoid hubris, ego, which can hinder progress, and the challenge of incentivizing people within large bureaucracies. Brian shares his thoughts on how insurers can avoid stagnation by looking for "not losers" instead of winners and the potential consequences of ignoring warning signs whe

In this throwback episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Aimey Bryan, Principal owner at Bryan Insurance Agency. Teresa and Aimey talk about how Aimey got her agency appointments, how she markets her agency, and more. Episode Highlights: How did Aimey get her start in the insurance industry? (2:51) Aimey mentions that when she opened her main office, she was in a unique situation. (11:16) Aimey discusses her carrier selection process. (13:00) Has Aimey encountered any difficulties in going it solo as opposed to working with a larger buying network? (13:59) Aimey explains how they got started in their original niche. (18:29) Aimey shares how other agencies, including her own, are combining old and new school insurance practices in order to truly reach out and build their business. (23:05) Aimey discusses the importance of marketing a product or a business. (32:57) Key Quotes: “I think having open lines of communication with your marketing rep and with the underwrit

In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews James Jenkins, Founder & CEO of RiskWell. Episode Highlights: James shares his insight about the state of the insurance industry, including carriers, vendors, agents, and technology. (8:35) James discusses the affordability crisis in homeowner's insurance and the need for carriers and agents to respond to it by raising deductibles and segmenting coverage, while also disclosing to clients what they are doing. (13:36) James mentions that the affordability crisis is a common issue, and addressing it is crucial for the industry’s success. (16:38) James believes that generative AI, a combination of AI and robotic process automation, has gained mainstream interest in the insurance industry due to its ability to generate new content and data, potentially revolutionizing the insurance industry. (24:40) Jason discusses the importance of margins for agencies and how AI can help agencies reduce payroll expenses and gain a competitive ad

In this episode, James talks with Zach Mefferd, CEO & Co-Founder of ZipBonds. To learn more about ZipBonds, visit https://zipbonds.com/ Visit our website to join our email list, get the scoop on our LIVE coaching calls and never miss an episode: https://www.agencyfreedom.com Connect with Agency Freedom Podcast on Facebook at the Agency Freedom Podcast group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@agencyfreedom.com with ideas, questions, complaints or your favorite grilling recipe. Episode Highlights: Zach discusses his methods for disconnecting from professional obligations in order to dedicate quality time to his family, which often includes outings on the lake. (7:52) Zach explains the genesis of Coverage Direct, a company he Co-Founded from the ground up with his business associate, Ryan Swalve, in 2016. (14:09) Zach explains that Zip Bonds' mission is to be a partner for agents who want to compete against larger agencies by providing a surety division that helps close bon

What does it take to rise from humble beginnings and achieve massive success in business while creating millionaires out of your key employees? Join us as we sit down with James Webb, author of Redneck Resilience, and explore his incredible journey from a small town in Mississippi to becoming a successful entrepreneur owning one of the country's largest Orange Theory Fitness franchises. In this fascinating and inspiring conversation, we dive into James's entrepreneurial journey and the pivotal moments that shaped his life and career. We touch on his early experiences selling pot holders at church bazaars, becoming an x-ray tech, and how the internet changed his entire trajectory. Throughout our discussion, we also examine the importance of resilience, relationships, and generational thinking in overcoming challenges and fostering long-term success. Don't miss this engaging episode, as we also discuss the often-overlooked topic of compensating high-performing employees in industries like the independent insu

In this episode of " Talkin' Tech" with Danny Lawrence on the MVP Podcast! Co-Host Danny Lawrence sits down with David Watson, CEO of Risk Advisor to discuss IndieTech and why more companies like Risk Advisor are becoming so crucial to long term agency success in this industry. Episode Highlights: David discusses his background and his path to becoming an insurance agent. He also shares his experience starting his own agency and eventually being acquired. (4:13) David shares what led him to start his own IndieTech company, Risk Advisor, to solve a problem for his agency and other agents. (12:05) David discusses the upcoming IndieTech Showcase event and why it's important for the insurance industry. (19:08) David gives a brief demonstration of Risk Advisor and emphasizes the importance of building relationships with clients. (22:54) David introduces Risk Advisor's agency proposals, which generate branded proposals based on the risk profile and carrier rating which include a premium summary and pre-fi

In this throwback episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens discusses the significance of being bold and brave, as well as the value of progress instead of perfection. Episode Highlights: Teresa explains why, despite the fact that the insurance sector is theoretically 61-63% female, less than 15% of women are in the C suites, management, and leadership position. (2:16) Teresa mentions that being brave requires stepping beyond one's comfort zone. (3:20) Teresa explains that she is a huge storyteller; she enjoys telling others about what has happened to her or what has happened to a client and what she has learned. (6:07) Teresa believes that we must recognize that taking a break on certain days is a necessary element of progressing and becoming better. (9:11) Teresa mentions that journaling enables her to further evaluate her ideas. (10:39) Teresa admits that she is the queen of setting goals that are much too lofty for her. (16:59) Teresa explains that our lives, companies, and jobs a

In this episode of Agents Influence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Nick Aube, Founder of Producer Systems. Episode Highlights: Nick discusses the importance of building a Broker of Record (BOR) system and how it allowed him to produce differently, with pride and confidence. (3:12) Nick explains how his system, Producer Systems, customizes processes for each agency and producer to define their own process. (17:13) Nick shares his preference for cold calling and how he built his book of business through it. He explains why he finds it efficient and how he has adjusted his approach over time. (22:00) Nick discusses how insurance agents can package loss control, risk management, and other services to solve the client's premium problem. (27:59) Nick invites listeners to join Producer Systems Live, a weekly mastermind group where producers discuss how to win clients with good coverage and experience mod. (31:17) Key Quote: “Prospecting is such an easy way to create confidence, but also it's the be