Agency Intelligence

In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on July 22nd, 2022, James talks with Troy Smith, Retired Detective and Hostage Negotiator with the San Antonio Police Department. Troy is now with the Black Swan Group. To learn more about Black Swan Group, Visit https://www.blackswanltd.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Episode Highlights: Troy shares his background story and how he ended up joining the San Antonio Police Department as an officer and later as a hostage negotiator. (5:19) Troy discusses what led him to the Black Swan Group where hostage negotiation skills are applied in a business environment. (6:28) Troy shares the story of a powerful moment when he gave

What's the difference between running a law firm and an insurance agency? No, that's not the start of a joke – it's a mindset that you should be using as a risk advisor. When someone is hiring an attorney, they aren't quoting out 10 different ones, they are finding one that they trust.  Brandon Schuh, head of specialty insurance practice at Christensen Group, joins the show to discuss how you deliver service. Are you going to quote out hundreds of policies you won't win every year, or are you going to lock in a client before you ever approach a carrier? When you act as an advisor, your business changes, your client relationships change and your growth potential changes.  Learn more from Brandon today and better understand the makeup of your business model. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Christensen Group Insurance: https://www.christensengroup.com LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Stacie Cooper of Liberty Mutual Insurance | Safeco Insurance. Stacie and Teresa talk about how agencies can level up their marketing and how Safeco is partnering with agencies to make it easier. Key Topics: Evolution of Safeco's 'Bricks and Clicks' program and its impact on digital marketing. Integration of SEO and social media to improve agency visibility and client acquisition. Overview of the 'Agent for the Future' initiative and its resources for adapting to consumer behaviors. Importance of a strong digital presence, including effective websites and Google My Business profiles. Strategies for client engagement and retention through personalized digital content and referral programs. Use of video content in marketing, including the effectiveness of video proposals. The need for continuous learning and adaptation to remain competitive in a digital market. Connect with: Stacie Cooper Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Ag

As business owners, the majority of our net worth is tied to the value of our business. What steps should we take today to maximize this value for a future sale?  In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, sits down with tax attorney David Foate JD, LLM, to explore practical advice on preparing your business for a successful sale. David specializes in the buying and selling of agencies and shares his extensive experience with our listeners on how to increase the saleability and value of their agencies. Episode Highlights: David shares his background in tax law and his focus on succession planning for business owners. (01:04) David discusses the financial burdens of student loans and the wisdom of financial pacing. (05:20) Erik shares the key strategies to enhance an agency’s value before selling. (10:04) David explains the legal and financial preparations necessary for selling an agency. (13:57) Erik discusses the importance of understanding why one wants

Is your agency getting good results? Careful, these good results could very well be traps that are holding your agency back from becoming its best version possible. In the first of a seven-part series, Brent Kelly is going to talk about having no clear strategic or financial plan. Get ready to ask yourself if your business model is leading your agency to the place that you ultimately want to arrive at, plus more important insights on this episode of The Agent Leader.

In this episode of the Digital Insurance Pint Podcast, host Tom Reid and his colleagues interview Louis Gagnon, CEO of Intact Financial Corp. They discuss various topics, including Louis Gagnon’s journey to becoming CEO, improving service in facility insurance, Intact’s strategy for CSIO standards-based APIs, balancing connectivity and aggregators, and the system switch and platform development at Intact. The conversation covers various themes related to the insurance industry, technology, customer experience, and challenges for the future. The complexity of technology and the need for constant improvement and security are highlighted. The benefits and usage of Client Center, as well as the evolving role of brokers, are discussed. The comparison with other industries and the importance of service and connectivity are explored. The challenges of cyber security, social issues, and climate change are also addressed. In this conversation, Louis Gagnon discusses the need for brokers to adapt to the changes in the

In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on May 20th, 2022, James talks with Cory Schnabel, Agency Principal at KC Insurance Group in Kansas City, MO. To learn more about KC Insurance Group, visit https://www.hubinternational.com.Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Episode Highlights: Cory talks about how he got started in the insurance industry. (5:27) Cory shares that he bought his first Allstate agency in 2010. (6:42) Cory how he started KC Insurance Group and what helped him to get contracts with several carriers. (12:51) Cory shares that his referral partners are one of the secrets to his success. (20:46) Cory explains how he connects with his referral partner

Do you struggle with "follow-up" for your prospects? Or, maybe you struggle because you only do follow-up in one form (e.g. cold calls or emails)? If yes, then welcome to the club! We all struggle with it. Prospecting is difficult and confusing and most agencies don't have someone to teach you how to do it because no one else there knows how to do it, either!  In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will explain not only why having a systematized "follow-up" is both wise and necessary to growing your Book of Business, but he'll take you through a step-by-step prospecting follow-up program he recommends to many people in his 12X Commission Mastermind.  PS: If you're interested in learning more about the 12X Commission Mastermind, visit my website at: www.12x.club Episode Highlights: Charles discusses the 12x Commission Mastermind. (1:47) Charles believes that a significant portion of insurance producers and agents lack an established follow-up program wh

His LinkedIn profile reads "I keep peoples fingers on their hands."  When it comes to niching down, Cole Williams has carved his out expertly. As a Risk Advisor with Insurance Associates, Inc., Cole focuses his agency on meat and food processors in Nebraska. He understands how to build a target market, how to become an expert in that niche, and how to grow while operating in that niche.  Listen in to learn how you can carve out an expertise and build a network within it to ultimately scale your agency. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Insurance Associates: https://insuranceassociates.biz 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 Cole Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-williams-42b91423 This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world

Brent Kelly gets insights from Chance Morgan of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency to uncover the secrets behind their remarkable growth - 32% for 12 straight years! Discover how their commitment to creating a supportive, family-friendly workplace coupled with a philosophy of collaboration over competition has fueled their impressive growth and cultivated a thriving company culture.

In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on June 10th, 2022, James talks with Dr. Billy Willams, CEO of Inspire A Nation. To learn more about Inspire A Nation, visit https://www.inspireanation.org. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: Dr. Billy Williams talks about his background and what led him to start Inspire A Nation. (5:23) Dr. Billy Williams shares that he does not worry about a person's mindset, but what is important is discipline. (10:27) Dr. Billy Williams explains that when he chooses an agency management system, he makes sure that it does 90% of everything he needs. (20:03) Dr. Billy Williams mentions that he is a step-by-step guy, and gives ou

“It takes the same amount of energy to sign a small client as it does to sign a large one." Rob Jacomen, Co-Founder at Basecamp Insurance Growth Mastermind, joins us this week and drops some knowledge on what it takes to build a $1 million book of business. The first step: Get focused on your audience. This isn't a new idea by any means, but Rob dives deep. How do you pick your audience? How do you get introductions? How do you establish yourself as an expert? We cover it all – so listen in. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Basecamp Insurance Growth Mastermind: https://www.basecampinsurancegrowth.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 Rob Jacomen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-jacomen This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world o

In this episode of "Talkin' Tech" with Danny Lawrence on the MVP Podcast, Danny Lawrence sits down with Jerry Vollmer, CEO at Voldico. Jerry Vollmer unveils the hidden potential of a career in insurance, a field often overlooked by young people but ripe with opportunities for success and an exceptional lifestyle. Discover how the insurance industry can provide a unique and prosperous path to retirement unlike any other. Episode Highlights: The hidden potential of the insurance industry as a viable career for young professionals Benefits of joining a network for new agents in easing industry entry The crucial role of technology in modernizing and streamlining insurance operations Centralizing operations to improve efficiency and focus on client services The importance of building a sustainable business model for long-term success How industry networks aid in securing better carrier relationships and resources Creating a lucrative and rewarding career in insurance that extends into retirement   Resourc

What does it mean to achieve financial security? Is it having a certain dollar amount in the bank or the ability to maintain your desired lifestyle no matter what happens? Erik Garcia (CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®) shares the three habits he believes are essential for building financial security in this episode. While the path to financial security may seem simple, it's not easy to achieve. In this solo episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik will explore these habits further and explain how you can take control of your financial future. By cultivating these key practices, you can set yourself up for lasting wealth and peace of mind. Episode Highlights: Erik introduces the concept of solo episodes aimed at exploring topics in-depth. He outlines the focus of this episode on three crucial habits for financial security, emphasizing their simplicity in concept but difficulty in practice. (01:13) Erik discusses the importance of defining what financial security means personally, highlighting the concept of "enoug

In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Jack Wingate, Founder & CEO of ALLCHOICE Insurance, the agency featured on the July 2024 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine.  Key Topics: Transitioning to a brand that represents the true identity of the agency The pivotal role of website redesign in enhancing customer engagement and SEO Implementing a culture of unlimited time off and its impact on employee satisfaction and productivity The importance of team collaboration and support in a flexible work environment Leveraging personal and professional growth through strategic branding and digital presence The significance of adapting to technological advancements and market demands Cultivating a supportive and innovative agency culture that prioritizes team and client needs Reach out to: Jack Wingate Jason Cass Visit Website: ALLCHOICE Insurance Rough Notes Magazine Episode Sponsors: This episode is brought to you b

No, I'm not talking about this podcast. I'm talking about you prospecting for new business! How you utilize "time" and the availability of it will have a direct correlation to your success in sales. If your prospect doesn't feel a need to move forward, to get things done, to understand how important it is to move quickly, you will not only struggle at setting new business appointments but you'll have a hard time winning. Why? Because, sales is war! And, because people (prospects) are lazy and unmotivated.  So, In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will give you some practical tips and suggestions about how to incorporate a "drop dead date" in your prospecting in order to win more new clients. Episode Highlights: Charles discusses procrastination and the role of time limits. (2:46) Charles mentions the advantages of including timeframes in emails and calls when reaching out to potential clients. (8:49) Charles explains that successful prospecting in

In this episode, James talks with Brandon Rondon, Owner of Rondon Insurance Services. To learn more about Rondon Insurance Services, visit https://www.rondonins.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: Transition from MMA to insurance Approach to sales and client relationships Insights on leadership and team building Effective use of feedback within teams Strategies for personal and professional growth The role of constructive criticism in development Integrating new technologies and systems in business operations

Going for the BOR is always the better option, but sometimes you just have to quote. If you go through a normal quoting process, be sure to get these three (3) things from the prospect. Once you do this, your quote-to-win ratio will increase so much that you could see your new business revenue increase by some 50% annually. That's a lot of commission. It's YOUR new business commission! But only if you get these three buy-in's from your prospect. So, listen and implement. PS: Download a free copy of The Millionaire Producer at: https://permissiongroup.com/the-millionaire-producer/ Key Topics: Understand the significance of the quoting process in the insurance industry The importance of the Broker of Record (BOR) letter Three essential steps to secure more clients and increase commission The importance of exclusive access to key insurance carriers Ensuring guaranteed business through clear agreements on price savings Preventing competitors from getting a last look at quotes Strategies to remind clients

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Dustyne Bryant, Director of Risk & Insurance Education and Research at Risk & Insurance Education Alliance. Dustyne and Teresa explore the changes that are going on at the National Alliance and how they have re-branded to be Risk & Insurance Education Alliance and how they are serving our industry with tons of options to help agents succeed. Key Topics: Transition from the National Alliance for Insurance Education to the Risk and Insurance Education Alliance. Expansion of educational formats to include podcasts and online subscriptions. Impact of COVID-19 on transitioning to virtual learning and webinars. The introduction of AI tools like Alibot to supplement insurance education. Comprehensive educational offerings from basic courses to advanced certifications. Importance of adapting to changes within the insurance industry and leveraging technology. Engaging the next generation through educational outreach from high school o

Cyber liability coverage is a policy that every insurance agency needs to sell. But how are you handling it at your company? Is it a tack-on policy, or a true consultation? Daniel Metcalf, Co-founder and President at CyberFin, partners with agencies across the company to help small-to-medium-sized businesses find better coverage for their clients, while also taking a more holistic risk management approach. Listen in to learn how to give a white-glove service to your clients and prospects as it relates to cyber. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com CyberFin: https://cyberfin.net 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 Daniel Metcalf: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielmetcalf This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent