Insurance Town

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 agency
How human touch and community involvement is possible with the right technology in your agency
How the emphases on educating their community on the intricacies of insurance is so valuable to their growth
Their 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:

🛠️ Smart Choice – Your partner for market access without the headaches. Whether you're a new agency or a seasoned vet, Smart Choice helps you stay independent while expanding your carrier options.

🔐 Canopy Connect – The one-click solution for collecting insurance data. Save time, improve your close rate, and give your clients a seamless experience—because the quoting process shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth.

📬 Olde School Marketing – Direct mail that actually works. Handwritten postcards, real human touch, and just the right dose of nostalgia to stand out in a digital world.

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.

takeaways

• Information 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.

Chapters

00:00
Welcome to Insurance Town
02:12
3 people you would invite to your block party dead or alive?
03:53
what peice of tech could you not live without?

4:45
The Importance of Information Sharing
5:00

Embracing Technology in Insurance

05:14
Niche Specialization in Insurance

12:25
The Resurgence of Independent Agents

14:26
Advice for New and Existing Agents

20:25
Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

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 better

The importance of AI, data, and automation is for your business

This 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.

Chapters

00:00
Welcome to Insurance Town

02:03
Exploring Music and Culture

04:54
Riley's Journey in Insurance

09:56
Building a Business from Scratch

12:52
The Role of Technology in Insurance

20:08
Advice for Agents and Carriers

22:50
Fun 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.

takeaways

• Matt 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.

05:52
Matt Waxman's Journey to Insurance

10:32
Cornerstone to Alchemy: Evolution of a Company

18:00
Navigating the Property Market Challenges

20:06
Advice for Agents in a Tough Market

21:54
Navigating the Builders Risk Landscape

28:10
Understanding the Role of Underwriters

32:32
Building a Pipeline for Builders Risk

35:53
Exploring the Cannabis Insurance Market

40:07
The Science Behind Cannabis Insurance

45:53
Alchemy Insurance Solutions: A Comprehensive Overview

My amazing Sponsors;

Smart Choice
Canopy Connect
Olde School Marketing 

In this conversation, Daniel Yoo discusses the inception of Finmate AI, a tool designed to enhance the efficiency of financial advisors by automating note-taking and data entry. He shares his journey from being a financial advisor to creating a solution that addresses common pain points in the industry. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in financial services, the importance of maintaining human relationships, and the future of in-person meetings in a technology-driven world. In this conversation, Daniel Yoo discusses the transformative role of AI in the financial services industry, emphasizing the importance of human relationships in client interactions. He addresses data security concerns, the integration of AI with CRM systems, and the evolving client experience in a technology-driven world. Daniel also shares insights on how financial advisors can learn from each other and adapt to the changing landscape, ultimately highlighting the need for personalized service in an increasingly automated environment.
takeaways

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background
02:46
The Birth of Finmate AI
06:01
The Role of AI in Financial Services
09:05
Enhancing Human Relationships with Technology
12:05
Optimizing Workflows with AI
15:03
The Future of In-Person Meetings
18:50
The Role of AI in Financial Services
21:29
Data Security and Privacy Concerns
25:51
Integrating with CRM Systems
29:30
Learning from Financial Advisors
29:59
Enhancing the Client Experience
34:50
Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this engaging conversation, Ben Morrow shares his journey from a nomadic childhood to his current role in the insurance industry. He discusses the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding career, the impact of personal loss on his wellness journey, and the unique bond he shares with his identical twin. Ben emphasizes the importance of trust and resilience in navigating life's ups and downs, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to personal growth and spirituality. In this conversation, Ben Morrow discusses the innovative approach of Claims Concierge in the insurance industry, focusing on enhancing the claims process for policyholders. He emphasizes the importance of building trust between agents and clients, the role of contractors, and the need for a grounded presence during claims. Morrow also addresses the challenges faced in the industry, including the need for better communication and follow-through, and highlights the significance of vulnerability in fostering relationships and providing support during difficult times.

Chapters

00:00
Spring Break and Family Life

03:00
Ben Morrow's Journey: From Childhood to Career

06:04
The Impact of Family and Personal Loss

08:55
The Twin Connection: Identity and Individuality

11:51
Wellness and Spirituality: A Lifelong Journey

14:59
Navigating Life's Challenges: Trusting the Process

20:59
Entering the Insurance Industry: A New Chapter

25:22
Claims Concierge: A New Approach to Insurance Claims

31:51
The Role of the Agent: Building Trust and Relationships

36:48
Navigating the Claims Process: A Grounded Presence

41:26
Overcoming Industry Challenges: Building Trust and Relationships

47:54
Leading with Vulnerability: The Human Side of Claims

Sponsors:
Smart Choice
Canopy Connect