Agency Intelligence

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens is joined by Colby Allen, Consultant and Financial Analyst at AgencyFocus. Teresa and Colby discuss what is profit and how to use it to get you where you want to go in your business.  Key Topics: The role and impact of financial consulting for independent insurance agencies Understanding and defining profit for your agency The importance of aligning personal values with business financial decisions Strategies for budgeting and financial planning to achieve your goals Differentiating between core and non-core income for a more accurate financial picture The significance of intentional decision-making in business growth and sustainability Personal reflections on the emotional aspects of discussing and managing business finances Connect with: Colby Allen Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: AgencyFocus Sterling Insurance Group

College is CRAZY expensive. As a parent, where do you start planning for your child’s Higher Ed? There is so much competing for your money and with many colleges not offering merit-based financial aid, the prospect of paying for college is daunting, to say the least.  It seems inevitable that our kids will be buried in college loan debt forever.  In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, has a conversation with Christen Arafeh of Crescent City College Consulting. Christen is a speaker, college admissions advisor, and scholarship strategist, and she shares her story of winning $900,000 total in scholarship money to pay for her own college. Today, Christen helps families navigate the college admission maze, and best of all she helps students find scholarships that they may qualify for. Episode Highlights: Christen shares her journey of starting scholarship applications as a high school freshman and eventually securing over $900,000 in scholarships. (2:39) Christen discusse

In this throwback episode of Agents Influence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Garrett Droege, Director of Innovation at IMA Financial Group. Garrett discusses the future of tech in the insurance industry and beyond and how to learn from your competitors. Episode Highlights: Garrett mentions that they have worthy rivals in their company with whom they share information and learn and that anyone can learn if their ears are open. (5:41)  Garrett shares his background story and how he got to where he is today in the insurance industry. (6:58) Garrett mentions that he used to run a global broker network called Tech Usher, which specializes in technology-related insurance. (8:26) Garrett mentions that everything he learned in the insurance industry was from other people and probably some of the competitors or people he thought were better than him in some way. (10:38)  Garrett explains how he and Ryan Hanley had the same idea on how Twitter is going to be the future of business. (15:33) Garrett ment

In this episode, James talks with Kody Houk, Senior Sales Advisor at Premier Strategy Box/PADI. To learn more aboutPremier Strategy Box/PADI, visit: https://www.mystrategybox.com/premier-institute. 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: The impact of specialization in the insurance industry Ethical considerations and honesty in policy representation The significance of continuous learning for insurance agents The role of comprehensive training and resources for professional development Building a community for collaboration and knowledge sharing The importance of underwriter relationships Strategies for handling a hard market in insurance

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 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 a mindset

Entering into the personal pain of others is no easy feat. Hear how Vonda found personal healing through her involvement with crime stoppers and foster summer camp.  Welcome to "Insurance Professionals Are Givers," a podcast series led by Erik Garcia CFP® and guest co-host Billy Wagner, exploring the essence of Erik's fifth pillar of financial security: "Give To Others." Dive into engaging conversations with diverse insurance professionals as they share their journeys of creating legacies for their families and leaving a meaningful impact on their communities through generous acts. Discover the driving forces behind their giving, heartfelt stories of their chosen causes, and the profound transformations sparked by their dedication to giving back. Prepare to be inspired to engage with your community in profound ways, reminding us all that giving isn't confined to a season—it's a mindset that cultivates lasting connections and fulfillment. Resources Mentioned: Vonda Copeland LinkedIn Copeland Insurance Age

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens is joined by Colby Allen, Consultant and Financial Analyst at AgencyFocus. Colby shares his deep knowledge of financial statements like profit & loss and balance sheets, and they discuss how important it is to understand money matters for running a business, and why knowing your financial numbers is key for making smart choices in business and life. Key Topics: The role of financial statements in business ownership Navigating the complexities of P&L statements and balance sheets The significance of knowing your numbers for strategic decision-making Strategies for effective financial planning and risk management The impact of financial literacy on personal and business growth Understanding the value of your agency and preparing for future transitions The importance of professional guidance in financial management Connect with: Colby Allen Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: AgencyFocus Sterling Insurance Group Produced by Podsquad.fm

In this episode of "Talkin' Tech" on the MVP Podcast guest Co-Host Danny Lawrence sits down with Host, Mitch Gibson. Mitch discusses his new opportunity and what he has learned so far.... Maybe instead of adding more tech, take a look what you have now and learn all that it can do and then build internal processes for how/when to use the tool. Episode Highlights: The importance of technology in the insurance industry Insights from conversations with industry professionals The transition to a technology-focused approach in insurance The role of a Chief Technology Officer in an insurance agency Strategies for evaluating and streamlining agency technology The impact of technology on agency operations and employee efficiency Upcoming initiatives and events in insurance technology   Connect with: Danny Lawrence LinkedIn Mitch Gibson LinkedIn Visit: The Insurance Alliance Produced by Podsquad.fm

In this throwback episode of the Agents Influence podcast, host Jason Cass and Erik Garcia, CFP®, sit down with Felix Garcia and Ebens Jean to discuss their journeys to America, their careers in the insurance industry, and the life lessons they have learned along the way. Episode Highlights: Erik shares what inspired him to interview Felix Garcia and Ebens Jean, both of whom immigrated to America, not speaking the language, and ended up in the insurance industry. (1:47) Ebens shares his experience of immigrating to America from Haiti and the challenges of not speaking the language and adjusting to a new culture and climate. (5:04) Felix shares about his childhood in Cuba and his journey as a teenager from Cuba to Spain and ultimately to New Orleans, and the difficulties and discomfort of being a foreigner in a new country. (10:38) Felix and Ebens recall what it was like going to school as immigrants who spoke with an accent and did not know the language well. (17:51) Ebens shares the story of gettin

In the inaugural episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Jim Schubert, President & CEO of Southern States Insurance, the agency featured on the March 2024 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine. Key Topics: Jim Schubert shares the significance of Southern States Insurance's feature on the front cover of Rough Notes Magazine The rarity and honor of being featured among thousands of agencies The strategic growth and planning behind the agency's success The importance of core values and developing a strong team culture Leveraging relationships and community engagement for agency growth The impact of mentorship and leadership in shaping the future of the agency Future growth plans and the emphasis on serving more clients effectively Connect with: Jim Schubert Jason Cass Visit Website: Southern States Insurance Rough Notes Magazine

In this episode, James talks with Peter Covill, Owner of Humphrey, Covill & Coleman Insurance Agency. To learn more about Humphrey, Covill & Coleman Insurance Agency, visit https://www.hcandcinsurance.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: Peter Covill's rich history in the insurance industry and the evolution of Humphrey, Covill & Coleman Insurance Agency The impact of leveraging social media groups to enhance agency growth and community engagement Strategies for building strong relationships with clients and stakeholders through personalized interactions and technology Insights into adapting and thriving in a rapidly changing insurance market The importance of aut

“Listen intently and respond creatively”. Listen to how Erin and Mike Richardson deepen relationships through intentional listening and then responding to other’s needs. Welcome to "Insurance Professionals Are Givers," a podcast series led by Erik Garcia CFP® and guest co-host Billy Wagner, exploring the essence of Erik's fifth pillar of financial security: "Give To Others." Dive into engaging conversations with diverse insurance professionals as they share their journeys of creating legacies for their families and leaving a meaningful impact on their communities through generous acts. Discover the driving forces behind their giving, heartfelt stories of their chosen causes, and the profound transformations sparked by their dedication to giving back. Prepare to be inspired to engage with your community in profound ways, reminding us all that giving isn't confined to a season—it's a mindset that cultivates lasting connections and fulfillment. Resources Mentioned: Erin Richardson LinkedIn Richardson Insura

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens is joined by Colby Allen, Consultant and Financial Analyst at AgencyFocus. Colby and Teresa talked about the mental and emotional journey of an agency owner to hire and to deliver solid compensation. We also talked from the producer conversation about what producers want and how both sides can create a great working relationship. Key Topics: The transition from individual success to agency growth and the role of agency focus Insights into the valuation and financial organization for agency growth The challenges and strategies of transitioning from a salesperson to an agency owner The critical role of hiring, onboarding, and managing talent in agency expansion The concept of equity and ownership in the producer-agency owner relationship Strategies for planning, implementing, and managing growth objectives Connect with: Colby Allen Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: AgencyFocus Sterling Insurance Group

In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, are joined by Attorney at Law Ryan McBride to discuss the basics of estate planning. They discuss what estate planning is, the importance of beneficiary designations on life insurance and retirement accounts, and finally one of the core tools used in estate planning, a will. Episode Highlights: Ryan shares his non-linear journey to becoming an attorney, starting from pre-med to obtaining a finance degree, then exploring business ventures before eventually specializing in estate planning and probate law. (5:37) Ryan discusses the importance of professional estate planning to cover wills, asset distribution, and powers of attorney for both health and financial matters. (13:21) Ryan emphasizes the need for coordination between financial advisors and estate planning attorneys to ensure comprehensive estate planning, focusing on asset distribution, guardianship for minors, and the best interests of th

In this throwback episode of Agents Influence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Brenden Corr, Senior Director of Business Development at Loss Run Pro. Brenden discusses how their simple and easy-to-use subscription software service helps insurance professionals. Brenden and Jason also discuss the software's influence on Jason's agency. Episode Highlights: Brenden shares that he is an iPhone user and the last application he downloaded is about the NFL playoffs. (3:00) Brenden explains that he loves to win more than he hates to lose because he is competitive. (6:16) Brenden shares that he believes that luck got him to his position but his skills got him to understand the responsibilities of his position. (7:22) Brenden talks about the history of Loss Run Pro, how it was built, and its success in the industry. (14:46) Brenden elaborates on how Loss Run Pro was able to get the help they needed to build the system from betas and focus groups. (17:05) Brenden explains that having the ability to get di

Could you write $250k of new business commission in the next twelve months? I think you can ... And here's how! There are three main things you need to do in order to successfully write a quarter of a million dollars in commission this next year. In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht breaks down the step-by-step process of how you can do this and how you can get every agent at your agency to do the same thing as well. Episode Highlights: Charles explains that the reason why he loves prospecting is that this activity results in having money in his pocket. (3:47) Charles elaborates on how he fell into writing for subcontractors and other types of accounts. (5:02) Charles explains why he decided that the first policy to write for an account was going to be $20,000 of commission or more because he was only writing for small accounts. (9:35) Charles shares that the thing that is stopping you from writing $250,000 of the new commission is the blockage

In this episode, James talks with McKlane Bobbitt, Owner of Lone Star Equity. To learn more about Lone Star Equity, visit http://www.txlonestarequity.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: The entrepreneurial journey of McKlane Bobbitt from medical device sales to becoming a professional real estate investor An in-depth look at wholesaling as a stepping stone in the real estate investment world The importance of insurance policies in closing real estate deals and how they influence investor decisions Strategies for navigating the current real estate market, with insights into flipping properties and timing investments The critical relationship between real estate i

Rob is passionate about veterans. Hear how he meets their needs, from mental health to dressing nicely. Thank you for your service. Welcome to "Insurance Professionals Are Givers," a podcast series led by Erik Garcia CFP® and guest co-host Billy Wagner, exploring the essence of Erik's fifth pillar of financial security: "Give To Others." Dive into engaging conversations with diverse insurance professionals as they share their journeys of creating legacies for their families and leaving a meaningful impact on their communities through generous acts. Discover the driving forces behind their giving, heartfelt stories of their chosen causes, and the profound transformations sparked by their dedication to giving back. Prepare to be inspired to engage with your community in profound ways, reminding us all that giving isn't confined to a season—it's a mindset that cultivates lasting connections and fulfillment. Resources Mentioned: Rob Bowen LinkedIn Patriotic Insurance Group Billy Wagner LinkedIn Brightway

If you have not yet CLEARLY DEFINED what your ideal client both is and is not then you're probably making only $0.50 on the $1 of what you could be earning. That's right. Not clearly defining your ideal client is costing you money -- a lot of money! You not only need to know what you will say "Yes!" to but also what you will say "No!" to in order to enjoy million-dollar success.  In this episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht explains how to define your ideal client, what types of things to say yes or no to, and why clearly defining your ideal client is the secret to being a successful Millionaire Insurance Producer. Key Topics: Risks of being a generalist insurance agent The concept and benefits of micro-niching Identifying the type of client you truly want The relationship between your ideal client and your lifestyle Strategies to determine and attract your ideal client The significance of saying no to certain clients or opportunities Practical steps to define and

Where do you begin when marketing your insurance agency? With limited time, budgets and expertise, it can be hard to stand out among the competition. This week, Cameron Carlow, Chief Marketing Officer at Ellerbrock-Norris, joins the show to talk through the essentials for a growing agency, from brand awareness to lead generation and closing the sale. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.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 Cameron Carlow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccarlow 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 across divi