Agency Intelligence

In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, certified financial planners Erik Garcia, CFP®, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, are joined by Javier Sanchez, AVP of Financial Literacy for Fidelity Bank. Together, they explore how teaching kids about money has shifted in the digital age. The classic piggy bank may be fading, but the need for financial education is stronger than ever. Javier shares practical insights on starting financial conversations early, navigating the risks of credit cards, and the importance of modeling good money behavior for our children. They also dive into how mobile banking apps and automated savings can help young people develop healthy financial habits.  From personal stories—like Erik’s experience of spending more when swiping a credit card compared to paying with cash—to actionable advice on budgeting and avoiding credit card debt, this episode is packed with valuable tips for parents and caregivers. And hey, even if you think you’ve got your finances figured out,

Have you ever gone through a season of prospecting where you weren't actually prospecting? You were doing -- I don't, know, whatever -- but just not a lot of reaching out to prospects? Yes, I think we all have experienced that from time to time. Today I had a coaching call with a new producer who has been in the business for about 8 months ... and I had to light him up! He's being lazy, reactive, and not doing the work that Producers are supposed to do. We all go through seasons like that. If you're in that season right now then GET OUT OF THERE RIGHT NOW!!! Enough is enough. Your weak efforts are hurting my ears. In fact, my own weak efforts hurt ever more. We (you and me both!) can do better. So let's. Also, be sure to check out www.microniche.club and sign-up for a training I'm going to be given about how to choose your most profitable Micro-Niche. I'm also going to be giving people my "go to" Script that almost sets more new business appointments than anything else. Again, go to: www.microniche.club Key

Insurance agents who struggle at setting new business appointments with prospects, or winning signed Broker of Record Letters, or winning through a quoting process, are typically agents that don't have a Competitive Differentiation that makes the prospect say, "Wow!" In other words, if you don't have anything -- either a tangible service or a unique process -- that separates you from other competitors, your prospect will subconsciously toss you in the bucket of mediocrity and not do business with you. Why? Because, they already have an agent equal to or better than you, so they don't need you. In this episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will GIVE YOU EXAMPLES of differentiation services, both that are insurance-related and also Micro-Niche focused. Also, be sure to check out www.permissionproducerschool.com as the next cohort of students to go through our sales school will take place at the end of February. Get registered before all of the seats are gone! Key Topics:

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Ciara Gravier, Founder of The Bunker Insurance & Risk Management. Teresa and Ciara discuss the book “10X Is Easier than 2X” about leveling up as professionals. Key Topics: Reflecting on the value of decompressing and connecting with like-minded peers. How “10X Is Easier Than 2X” challenges traditional growth mindsets. Identifying and focusing on the tasks that truly move the needle. Delegating effectively to free up time for high-impact activities. The importance of building a team that supports exponential growth. Surrounding yourself with people who embrace a 10X mindset. Aligning daily actions with long-term, transformative goals. Connect with: Ciara Gravier Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: The Bunker Insurance & Risk Management Sterling Insurance Group 10X Is Easier Than 2X Produced by PodSquad.fm

(First, go check out www.microniche.club to see what this is all about) - Do you feel like you're struggling setting enough new business appointments or not winning enough new clients? If that's the case for you, I would say it's likely due to a lack of focus in a narrowly defined Micro-Niche. Most producers struggle or don't make the kind of income they want or know they're capable of making because they are prospecting on the WRONG types of accounts.  In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will teach you about why you need to choose a Micro-Niche in order to accelerate your sales career and make more commission. And, the starting point for you is to first visit: www.microniche.club Key Topics: Micro-niche importance - check out www.microniche.club Leveraging micro-niches for business growth Effective strategies for selecting a micro-niche Success stories from micro-niche strategies Impact of micro-niching on appointment setting and client acquisit

In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Darren Vermost, President of Vermost Insurance Agency, the agency featured on the February 2025 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine.  Key Topics: Darren reflects on the honor of being featured on Rough Notes. Integrity, relationships, and team loyalty drive the agency’s success. Darren’s leadership style fosters a dedicated, long-tenured team. The value of imitation and disciplined implementation. Balancing innovation with client-focused service. Using AI to enhance productivity and free time for clients. Reach out to: Darren Vermost Jason Cass Visit Website: Vermost Insurance Agency Rough Notes Magazine Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Cheree Sauer. Cheree is a business coach specializing in high-performance women and burnout and creating balance. Key Topics: Cheree Sauer shares about her Success Without Sacrifice Coaching program. The RAMP Method creates seasons of rest for business owners. Recognizing and addressing burnout through self-awareness. Customizing self-care to individual needs for lasting growth. Authentic leadership and empowering teams as women. The importance of working in your zone of genius. Connect with: Cheree Sauer Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Success Without Sacrifice Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

What should you expect in 2025? Will market volatility and inflation trends continue to dominate the economy? In this dynamic episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, sits down with Phil Blancato, Chief Market Strategist for Osaic Wealth Management and CEO of Ladenburg Thalmann, to break down the biggest surprises of 2024 and what’s ahead for the markets. They dive into whether the explosive growth of the Magnificent 7 tech giants can continue and discuss how market corrections and volatility could impact investors in the coming year. Are you ready for potential market pullbacks in 2025? Erik and Phil share practical strategies to help you navigate economic uncertainty and position your portfolio for long-term success. Tune in for valuable insights and expert guidance on managing risk in today’s unpredictable market. If you find this episode helpful, follow the show and share it with someone who’s looking to make smarter financial moves this year! Episode Highligh

In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Tony Lew, Co-Founder of InsurTech NY. They discuss the evolution of InsurTech NY, its collaboration with independent agents, and the tools shaping the future of the insurance industry.  Plus, get the details on the upcoming InsureTech NY 2025 Spring Conference and how to save 35% with the code “AI2025CODE”. Key Topics: Tony Lew shares InsurTech NY’s mission to connect the insurance ecosystem. InsurTech’s evolution from disrupting to enhancing agents. Accelerators and venture funds supporting industry innovation. Digital distribution tools improving efficiency for agents. AI and RPA’s potential to create “digital super agents.” Highlights of the upcoming InsureTech NY Spring Conference Reach out to: Tony Lew Jason Cass Visit Website: InsureTech NY 2025 Spring Conference - use “AI2025CODE” for 35% off Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

Are you happy with your current status quo or are you satisfied with mediocrity? No doubt, you're not. If not, are you doing anything significant to level-up your revenues, or write larger accounts, or close more new business? I hope you are! In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will help you to see what leveling-up would look like for you and he'll give you some key takeaways to figure out and then implement in order to finally begin closing more deals and making the money you know you're capable of earning.  Key Topics: Importance of moving beyond comfort zones to achieve substantial growth Strategies for targeting and securing larger accounts The role of mindset in surpassing traditional business limits Practical tips on choosing insurance carriers and maximizing commissions Evaluating and adjusting business strategies to align with growth objectives Real-life success stories of agents transforming their business scale Prospects for agents wil

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Carie Ann Roach of Independent Insurance Agents of Texas (IIAT). Carie and Teresa discuss how to find the resources to level up an insurance career. Key Topics: Carie Ann shares her journey from receptionist to industry leader. The value of certifications in career advancement. Building confidence and seeking mentorship in insurance. Turning CE requirements into meaningful growth opportunities. Fostering leadership and self-awareness in teams. Enhancing team dynamics with tools like CliftonStrengths. Adding value and building trust in professional relationships. Connect with: Carie Ann Roach Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Independent Insurance Agents of Texas (IIAT) Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass discusses the concept of building a "digital you" and "digital staff" using AI tools like ChatGPT. He shares personal stories and practical strategies for leveraging AI to enhance productivity and creativity. Key Topics: Jason’s vision for AI tools as digital assistants Using AI to automate tasks like blog writing and video creation AI as the brain and RPA as the hands of agency operations Benefits of ChatGPT’s paid version for privacy and customization Predictions on licensed AI agents in the insurance industry Real-life examples of AI improving productivity and creativity Encouragement to start leveraging AI tools today Reach out to: Jason Cass Visit Website: Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

Tim Leman, CEO at Gibson, joins the show today to talk through one of the biggest catalysts of growth at your insurance practice: Intentionality. How do you build your business to grow in the areas you most want to grow, in the locations you most want to hit, and with the beliefs you most want to instill in your team? From the corporate level all the way down to the individual producers, learn how to get everyone on the same page and pushing toward the same goal. Tim covers sales, recruiting, making connections, and, most importantly, building an intentional process. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Gibson: https://www.thegibsonedge.com LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 Tim Leman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timleman This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Meg McKeen, Founder of Adjunct Advisors. Meg and Teresa talk about being vulnerable and how we need to step over our fears to achieve our goals. Key Topics: Meg discusses the shift toward flexible, virtual work. Teresa and Meg explore meaningful connections in remote settings. Leadership’s role in fostering trust and communication. Embracing vulnerability for growth in work and life. Generational changes reshaping workplace culture. Balancing personal priorities with career growth. Modeling work-life balance to strengthen teams. Connect with: Meg McKeen Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Adjunct Advisors Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

Listen in for an exclusive sneak peek into one of our Agency Intelligence Mastermind meetings, where Jason Cass and the Mastermind Champions discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing agencies in 2025. Want to participate in meetings like these twice a month? Join Agency Intelligence Mastermind to connect with other insurance agency owners, share insights, ask questions, and grow together.  Key Topics: Tackling technology challenges with shared services. Using AI and RPA to streamline agency operations. Predictions on market trends, softening rates, and acquisitions. Data-driven approaches to improve agency-carrier relationships. The importance of proactive leadership and strong partnerships. Preparing for shifts with customer-focused innovations. Highlights of Brainshare and IndieTech 2025 events. Reach out to: Jason Cass Visit Website: Join Agency Intelligence Mastermind Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

Why do most New Year's resolutions fail, and why is it often a waste of time to even set them? In this engaging episode of "Stuff About Money," certified financial planners Xavier Angel and Erik Garcia commit to changing their mindset as they usher in 2025. They explore the common pitfalls of resolutions, revealing that a staggering 80% of goals fall by the wayside within the first month. Instead of traditional resolutions, Xavier and Erik emphasize the importance of actionable strategies that focus on living in the gain and creating new neural pathways for lasting change. Listeners will discover practical tips on how to celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and the significance of accountability in achieving financial goals. From automating savings to embracing a mindset of continuous improvement, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to take charge of your financial future. Tune in and learn how to make 2025 your most successful year yet! Episode Highlights: Erik emphas

Would you like to win more signed Broker of Letters from your prospects but you're not exactly sure how the process works? Would you appreciate it if someone gave you a step-by-step, repeatable process that would help you win more signatures? Well, then it's a good thing you're listening to today's throwback episode because host Charles Specht is going to breakdown ten (10) steps to winning more signed Broker of Record Letters from your prospects. PS: And, in this episode Charles tells you exactly how to get your hands on a copy of a 12-Month Timeline of Services you can use for your prospects. Key Topics: The importance of planning before securing Broker of Record letters Overview of the Broker of Record letter process Strategies for defining your ideal client Choosing the most profitable micro-niche Creating a 12-month timeline of services Branding and scripting for your micro-niche Implementing a three-prong approach to prospecting The critical step of directly asking for the Broker of Record R

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Lorin Montgomery, Vice President of Brown & Brown Insurance. Lorin and Teresa talk about how to build relationships, educate and build a business in this crazy market Key Topics: Lorin’s transition from Liberty Mutual to Brown & Brown Insurance. Challenges of rising costs and stricter policies in today’s hard market. Importance of client education to address market changes and build trust. Proactive strategies like year-round communication and consultative advising. Networking tips for building credibility and finding niche markets. Benefits of focusing on larger clients for efficiency and relationship depth. Managing client emotions and expectations during difficult renewals. Connect with: Lorin Montgomery Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Brown & Brown Insurance Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

If you can do this one thing, you'll not only win more signed Broker of Record Letters but you'll save yourself a ton of time, headaches, stress, and you'll make a lot more money too. What is it? Here it is: "Show me the money, Jerry!" See, you need to become an insurance agent who is more like Jerry Maguire the sports agent, rather than "Joe Quotes" who offers quotes to non-clients. What I mean is professional sports agents don't offer quotes and quote against other sports agents, and neither should you.  In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will explain the how and why being Jerry Maguire is a better choice for you, and then three (3) steps to make it happen. Key Topics: The importance of how you're perceived by prospects Why the traditional quoting process is flawed Adopting the Jerry Maguire approach in insurance sales Key strategies to differentiate yourself in the market How to effectively communicate value to your prospects The benefits of

In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Clay Snellings, Principal at Snellings Walters Insurance Agency, the February 2023 front cover agency and the 2023 Rough Notes Magazine Agency of the Year. Key Topics: Clay reflects on the honor of being featured on Rough Notes and winning the 2023 Agency of the Year. The transformation of Snellings Walters from family-run to employee-owned. Decisions to expand ownership and talent for growth. Insights into perpetuation planning and shareholder agreements. The role of EOS in driving agency success since 2013. Focusing on priorities to overcome the “tyranny of the urgent.” Clay highlights consistency and teamwork as keys to success. Reach out to: Clay Snellings Jason Cass Visit Website: Snellings Walters Insurance Agency Rough Notes Magazine Produced by PodSquad.fm