Shows
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhy Most Agencies Blend In—And How to Stand Out for GoodMost agencies are “just another insurance option.” Not you.
In this episode, Michael Jans reveals the true origin and power of the Unique Selling Proposition—drawing on lessons from advertising legends, Dan Kennedy’s 7-point framework, and decades spent guiding agencies to top-tier growth, margin, and valuation. You’ll learn:
The real reason most agencies get ignored—and how to never blend in again
How Rosser Reeves and Madison Avenue created the original USPs (and why they still work)
Kennedy’s 7 secrets for a USP that builds your business from the inside out
The single question every client i...2025-07-231h 05The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe AI Divide: Why the Future of Insurance Belongs to the BoldAI isn’t coming. It’s crashing—right now—into the heart of the independent insurance agency. In this episode, Michael Jans breaks down the most transformational shift the industry has ever seen: the rise of artificial intelligence and how it’s rapidly separating tomorrow’s winners from the agencies that will vanish.
You’ll learn:
Why “using” AI isn’t enough—why mastery is the new competitive edge
The four pillars of AI-powered agency advantage (with actionable examples)
What top industry research says about the AI arms race—and what agile agencies are doing right now to seize first-mover...2025-07-1647 minThe Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Soft Market Is Coming — Are You Ready?This isn’t your typical evergreen episode. In this urgent briefing, Michael Jans dives deep into the 2025 midyear reinsurance negotiations—and what they mean for you. If you're running an agency, you must prepare now for the shifting market dynamics.
You’ll get:
Key signals pointing to an impending soft market
Strategic advice on expense discipline, AI, and sales culture
What smart agencies are doing now to engineer growth and valuation
Plus: Michael shares updates on killer new resources—like AI for the IA University, the 2025 Valuation Playbook, and the Soft Market Prep Kit.
👉 Don’...2025-07-0937 minThe Insura-Preneur PodcastAre You Making These Mistakes? Part 2 of 33 Growth Killers for Insura-PreneursWhat if the reason your agency isn’t growing isn’t what you lack—but what you’re still doing wrong?
In this episode, Michael Jans continues his eye-opening list of the 33 Deadly Marketing Mistakes made by Insura-Preneurs. This is Part 2—and it’s packed with real-world insight, hard-earned lessons, and straight-up advice for growth-focused agency owners. If you want to stop wasting time, stop leaking leads, and start making smarter marketing moves—this episode is for you.
2025-07-0251 minThe Insura-Preneur PodcastAvoid These 13 Marketing Mistakes That Are Costing Insurance Agencies MillionsWhat’s killing your marketing results—slowly, silently, and profitably?
In this episode, Michael Jans reveals the first 13 of 33 deadly marketing mistakes he’s seen insurance agencies make over decades in the trenches. If you’re serious about growth, valuation, or even just getting leads that actually convert, this episode will change how you think.
You’ll get practical insights, candid stories, and field-tested fixes from one of the industry's top strategic minds. Don’t just fix your marketing—transform it.
2025-06-2556 minThe Insura-Preneur Podcast10 Big Shifts That Could Hit Your Agency Like a Freight Train (And Why Preparing Now Is the Only Smart Move)This isn’t a tactics episode.
If you’re looking for better subject lines or how to get more likes on your next post… wrong time, wrong episode.
This one’s big picture. Strategy. CEO-to-CEO.
Michael steps back and scans the landscape of the insurance industry — and the wider economy — to highlight 10 major shifts that could dramatically impact your agency in the months and years ahead. Some are obvious. Some are subtle. All of them are real.
From AI-powered direct-to-consumer models to valuation cliffs, from producer droughts to internal cost-cutting with AI, this epi...2025-06-1843 minThe Insura-Preneur PodcastThe $10 Million Question: Are You Engineering Your Agency’s True Value — or Just Earning a Living?Most agency owners are asking the wrong question.
They’re stuck on “What’s my agency worth today?”
But the real question — the $10 million question — is this:
Are you deliberately engineering its value… or just hoping for the best?
In this hard-hitting solo episode, Michael Jans throws open the strategic vault and lets you in on the 12 critical levers that drive value — not someday, but right now.
You’ll discover:
✅ Why two nearly identical agencies can sell for 4X… or 13X — and what makes the difference
✅ The silent killer of valua...2025-05-2835 minThe Insura-Preneur Podcast🛠️ Peak Valuation Masterclass – Build, Scale, Sell.🚀 Ready to dominate 2025? Whether you’re thinking of selling in 2 years or 20, the path to a peak valuation starts NOW. 💥
🔥 In this episode, Michael Jans – the mind behind The Society of Insura-Preneurs, dives deep into:
💥 The seismic shifts shaking the industry in Q1 2025
🏆 Why niche-focused agencies command a premium
💡 The 5-step blueprint to engineer your agency’s true worth
🗝️ How to shift into the premier lane of buyers
⚡ If you’re serious about building something of lasting value, this is THE podcast you can’t afford to miss. Listen in and level up! 🎧💰
2025-05-211h 02The Insura-Preneur PodcastMike Becker: The PIA former CEO Speaks FranklyNo Spin, No Fluff—Just the Raw Truth from the Top. Mike Becker, former CEO of the *National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA)*, steps up to the mic for an unfiltered, tell-all conversation about the industry, its future, and what’s holding agents back from explosive growth. **In this no-holds-barred episode, you’ll hear:** - Becker’s take on the *real* challenges independent agents face in today’s shifting landscape. - His insights into the evolving role of technology, legislation, and industry consolidation. - What he wishes he could have told every agency owner during his tenure—and why it matte...2025-01-2859 minThe Insura-Preneur PodcastThe 5-Step Blueprint to Fast Growth & Peak Valuation*Unlocking Valuation Trends & Maximizing Acquisition Potential* PLUS: The 5-Step 30% Growth Blueprint Revealed**
Join us as we dive into the latest *valuation and acquisition trends* reshaping the insurance industry. Learn how to position your agency as the clear leader in a competitive market while avoiding the common traps that can sink your valuation.
Then, discover the **5-Step 30% Growth Blueprint**—a proven system to boost organic growth, maximize profit margins, and pave the way for your agency’s next-level success. This isn’t just theory—it’s your opportunity to adapt cutting-edge strategies to your agency and achieve ex...2025-01-151h 04The Insura-Preneur PodcastMarketing that Works Dale SteinkeHow do you cut through the noise, capture attention, and drive results in a crowded insurance marketplace? Dale Steinke, a marketing powerhouse, joins Michael Jans on The Insura-Preneur Podcast to share the insider strategies that make marketing actually work.
In this must-listen episode, you’ll discover:
✅ Proven tactics to stand out in an industry where everyone looks the same.
✅ The secret to crafting marketing campaigns that not only attract leads but convert them into loyal clients.
✅ How to turn your agency’s unique strengths into a magnet for growth.
Dale’s ins...2025-01-151h 07The Insura-Preneur PodcastJay Mueller Running a Successful Agency from SpainEver dreamed of running your agency from a sun-drenched balcony overlooking the Mediterranean? 🌍✈️ Jay Mueller isn’t just dreaming it—he’s living it. In this jaw-dropping episode, Jay reveals how he built a thriving insurance agency while trading office stress for the vibrant lifestyle of Spain. 🇪🇸
Discover the secrets behind his bold leap, including:
✅ The systems and strategies that keep his agency firing on all cylinders from thousands of miles away.
✅ How to attract dream clients who value your expertise (and not just the lowest price).
✅ The mindset shift that turns "impossible" into i...2025-01-151h 01
BPM360 Podcast - Covering Every AngleKicking Off Season 2 with Michael Schank: Unveiling the Blueprint for Digital Transformation SuccessIn the first episode of BPM360's second season, hosts Caspar and Russell welcome Michael Schank, the esteemed author of Digital Transformation Success, to discuss his journey, insights, and the critical elements of effective digital transformation. Here are the 10 key takeaways:Process Inventory as the Foundation: Schank emphasizes the importance of creating a comprehensive process inventory to serve as the backbone of any digital transformation effort, ensuring alignment and reducing chaos.The Role of Business Architecture: Understanding that business capabilities must connect to processes is essential; processes are where the abstract becomes tangible and...2024-09-0657 min
Risiko Radio102: Er din virksomhed klar til DORA? Jan Jans fra Finanstilsynet giver statusI dette afsnit besøger Risiko Radio Finanstilsynet for at tale med Jan Jans om aktuelle problemstillinger og den seneste status på arbejdet med DORA. LINKSEU cyberlovpakken i EU-tidende (DORA forordningen, NIS2 direktivet, DORA-følgedirektiv og CER direktivet): EUR-Lex - L:2022:333:TOC - EN - EUR-Lex (europa.eu)Vedtagne retsakter under DORA Digital Operational Resilience Regulation - European Commission (europa.eu)Kommissionens tidslinje Cyber resilience - European Commission (europa.eu)Offentlig høring...2024-03-141h 01
The Insura-Preneur PodcastTransform Your Agency’s Email into a Goldmine with Marketing’s Top Email Guru"Is Your Agency's Email Marketing Striking Gold, or Striking Out?"
Unlock the secrets of high-ROI email strategies in this electrifying podcast episode with Jay Schwedelson, the wizard of email marketing. As an independent insurance agency, it's time to stop blending in and start standing out. The Direct Marketing Association (DMA) reveals a staggering $43 return for every dollar invested in email marketing - but the real magic lies in mastering the craft.
Join us for this riveting podcast master class, meticulously tailored for independent insurance agencies. Jay Schwedelson, the genius behind subjectline.com uncovers the covert...2023-11-201h 04
The Insura-Preneur PodcastTexas Agency Uses Simple Step-by-Step System for 20% Annual GrowthMike Alexander started his agency in a crisis. The ‘Great Texas Mold Crisis’ was sending agencies all over the state into a death spiral. He just purchased a small book with 400 clients.
One of his early - and critical - insights was that it wasn’t going to be enough to do a good job at insurance. He’d have to do a good job at marketing. Fast forward to today. 4000 customers. 20% annual growth.
Listen as Mike unravels the secrets to his insurance marketing success, including:
How Mike fixed his agency’s ‘leaky bucket’ and created a...2023-11-0646 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastFrom $1.5 to 110 Million: The Ultimate Agency Success StoryArguably, the fastest growing family owned agency in America. Now, revealing the juicy secrets that have become insurance industry legend.
Meet Mike Mathisen. He bought a teeny agency with a few hundred customers, stepped on the gas and never hit the brakes. 30% growth for over a decade. Reliable, profitable - and, if you love growth yourself, deserving of your close attention.
In this podcast, Mike reveals the secrets of how he ‘did the impossible:’
The system he uses to absolutely JAM his marketing funnel with sizzling hot leads!
The processes he has in to earn...2023-10-1945 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastFrom NFL Dreams to Insurance GiantHow This $10 Million Agency Doubled in One Year
Just as his college career ended, Michael DeLaGrange tragically lost his father. And gained an insurance agency. A small, one-man shop that mostly sold financial products.
Fast forward to today. That small agency now has 50 employees. Five stores. And $20 million for expansion. In this episode, Michael shares:
His “opposite” approach to a common industry trend—and why he went full boar on an unusual approach to a bricks ‘n mortar agency
The reverse thinking he applied to the customer experience and how he made customers love buying insurance
The unus...2023-08-101h 06
The Insura-Preneur PodcastRevolutionize Your Commercial Lines Growth: Unleash the Power of Marketing and Sales Working Together! 🚀A different kind of podcast. This time, our host - and ‘marketing guru’ - Michael Jans joins in on the conversation. Michael is joined by commercial insurance sales expert and trainer, Randy Schwantz.
This unique blend of expertise will reshape your insurance business. Get ready for talent acquisition secrets, revenue-boosting strategies, and content marketing mastery.
Elevate your game, attract top producers, and position yourself as a problem-solving expert. Don't miss out on the transformative insights that serious insurance agents need to hear!
1️⃣ Talent Acquisition Reinvented: Master the art of finding the perfect talent with tai...2023-06-161h 06
The Insura-Preneur PodcastJeff Teschke, Leading Agency Tech Developer Speaks to Agents About Achieving SuccessJeff Teschke was the founder & CEO of Forge3, the top website developer for independent agents - until it’s recent sale to Agency Revolution. In this podcast, Jeff reviews key lessons for agents, learned over his 18+ years serving the industry. He shares his insight on:
The value of ‘niching down’ for agencies
How the industry has changed (and what agents should do to keep up with that change)
The importance of ‘social proof’ to earn trust in the marketplace
Why agents should be careful not to ‘hide’ behind tech and lose their humanity in the marketplace
His insights on the ideal ‘...2023-06-0154 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow to Create Maximum Valuation for Your Agency Regardless of When You Want to Sell or How Old You AreYour insurance agency makes money two ways. Now, as income. And later, when you sell.
Here’s the magic. The decisions you make now create the value you get later.
Few people know that better than our podcast guest, Michael Mensch, CEO of Agency Brokerage Consultants. Michael has assisted in over 400 M&A transactions and over 1,700 valuations of insurance agencies and brokerages in the US for privately-held businesses and lenders including Live Oak Bank, Westfield Bank, Crestmark Bank, ReadyCap Lending, and Oak Street Funding.
Those few but critical decisions can mean millions of do...2023-05-2453 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastFormer Safeco Agency Advocate Shares Secrets of Reliable, Long-Term Agency GrowthChuck Blondino, Author, The Remarkable Insurance Agency
He was Safeco and Liberty Mutual’s Director of Agency Capabilities and Programs. He’s walked through the front door of thousands of agencies. He’s taught reliable methods of growth to agency principals from coast-to-coast.
Chuck Blondino is a rare three-time encore interviewee because he always brings the goods. This time, Chuck shares the inside story of 11 actual agencies, actual steps to growth, and actual, real-world results. Drawn from his long, practical background and the extensive research he has done for his new book, The Remarkable...2022-12-2057 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastSix Game-Changing Lessons for Independent AgentsMichael Jans, Co-Founder, Agency Revolution, Principal, Michael Jans.
A message from our host, Michael Jans:
“I’ve interviewed over 225 top leaders in the insurance industry. I want to share the most important things they’ve said to me. I’ve analyzed those conversations. And as I organized them, some critical themes and messages were very clear, and they were all connected to six areas the serious insura-preneur must pay attention to…
Strategy
Technology
The Modern Consumer
Marketing & Communication
Entrepreneurship
The Rapid Change of Pace
This episode will show you the lessons I’ve learned i...2022-11-171h 04
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhy Agencies Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Embrace ChangeEric Ayala, Senior Vice President, U.S. Market General Manager, Novidea
Our guest today is a long-time venture capitalist, tech pioneer, and sales leader who sees the insurance industry as the ideal marketplace for entrepreneurs. Eric Ayala, SVP and GM for Novidea says “It’s big and it’s ripe for disruption.”
When the industry is constantly changing, understanding the forces driving new change can make all the difference. Listen to this episode for Eric’s insights on:
Why the line between “tech companies” and any other is disappearing
The difference between...2022-10-2035 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHere’s an Insurance Agency That Doesn’t Look Like Any OtherMatheus Riolfi, Co-Founder, CEO, Tint
What does a modern insurance agency look like? It might not be what you’d think. Today’s podcast guest, Matheus Riolfi, is Co-Founder and CEO of Tint—one of these “modern agencies.” Like other agencies, Tint sits between consumers and carriers. Where things get interesting, though, is how Matheus’ company embeds insurance into its tech platform.
In this discussion, Matheus shares his insights on:
Why carriers will support embedded insurance
Why more and more companies will embed insurance into their product
The direction embedded insurance is movi...2022-10-0539 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow Agency Tech Increases Growth & MarginsKabir Syed, Founder, CEO, Ennabl
When Kabir Syed was a Managing Director at Marsh, he was given a little data project that generated millions of dollars and opened his eyes to just how much money agencies leave on the table.
This seasoned insurance professional and entrepreneur said, “I’m not really that good at technology, but I LOVE data.” That’s why he built a team of engineers to handle the technology for him while he showed them where to mine and how to polish the wealth of data hidden within every single agency toda...2022-09-2249 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastAgency Marketer Reflects on Past SuccessesJohn Jackson, Insurance Copywriter, SME, Agency Revolution
Every agency is seeking growth, and many are turning to professional marketers to help. This jam-packed episode turns to a seasoned agency marketer for insight. John Jackson, formerly the marketer at Alliance Insurance Services in North Carolina is now a copywriter and content creator for Agency Revolution clients. John looks back at his success at Alliance and shares what worked.
Whether you have a marketer on your team, are thinking of hiring one, or are a marketer yourself, you’ll want to hear John’s insights on:...2022-08-2651 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastJ.D. Power Reveals Trends Agents Must Monitor and UnderstandMarty Ellingsworth, Executive Managing Director, P&C Insurance Intelligence, J.D. Power
Over his many years of observing and working in the insurance industry, Martin Ellingsworth has created innovation at almost every link in the P&C value chain. Now Marty holds a birds-eye view of the entire industry in his position as Executive Managing Director of P&C Insurance Intelligence at J.D. Power.
In this important podcast, Marty directs his attention toward the independent agency channel and the trends that are changing their very business:
What’s causing the ha...2022-08-101h 21The Insura-Preneur PodcastThree Secrets About the Self-Scaling Insurance AgencyMichael Jans, Co-Founder, Agency Revolution, Principal, Michael Jans Advisory
Our host, Michael Jans, takes the mic to answer the question “Can an insurance agency grow by itself?” The Co-Founder and former CEO of Agency Revolution serves as a growth advisor to many of the largest and fastest growing insurance agencies and insurtechs in North America.
In this podcast, Michael pulls back the curtain on how his own fast-growth client agencies grow 25-40% or more per year. He openly shares insights on:
Why a few key growth systems sky-rocket top-line revenue when ins...2022-07-221h 01
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat 80,000 Insurance Consumers told Bain & Company About Our IndustryDarci Darnell, Partner, Global Head of Customer Practice, Bain & Company
You know insurance is changing. So do consumers—and it shouldn’t surprise you that they want it to change. They don’t want it to be slow, frustrating, or confusing.
Few people know the insurance consumer better than our gest, Darci Darnell, Partner and Global Head of Customer Practice at Bain & Company. Bain’s insight on the relationship between the industry and the modern consumer is legendary.
In this conversation, Darci reveals insights on critical issues the savvy agent must ad...2022-07-0652 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHead of IBM Insurance Shares Important ResearchMark McLaughlin, General Manager - Insurance, IBM
Market forces continue to shift and agents who want to thrive in the future must be ready for change as the market demands it. Our guest, Mark McLaughlin, IBM’s General Manager of Insurance, reveals the direction their research shows the wind is blowing—and the response agency principals must have today.
Listen to this discussion for Mark’s powerful insight:
What 12,000 insurance execs reported as the top driver affecting their business
How the customer experience across other industries is forcing insurance to play catch-up
Why more consumers are judging...2022-06-0947 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhere Insurtech is Taking AgenciesJames Benham, CEO, Co-Founder, JBKnowledge
Savvy agents know they need to make critical decisions now to thrive in the future of this fast-changing industry. James Benham, CEO, and Co-Founder of the leading insurtech, JBKnowledge, freely shares insight and surprises he’s found from over 20 years of creating and distributing insurtech that’s used every day throughout the insurance industry.
In this conversation, James reveals insights on:
Major emerging trends in insurtech, including AI, big data, cloud computing, and more
Steps agents can take today to improve their clients’ experience dramatically in the fut...2022-05-1840 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastCyber Expert Predicts Emerging Threats and Opportunities Jack Kudale, Founder, CEO, CowbellThere’s a looming cybersecurity threat over small and medium business clients. Jack Kudale, Founder & CEO of Cowbell—a leader in cyber insurance for SMBs—has the bird’s-eye view on the critical trends in cyber risks.
His company monitors 23 million US based businesses for cyber threats (for perspective, that means nearly 3 out of every 4 of your commercial lines clients). And Jack doesn’t like what he sees.
In this podcast, Jack shares his remarkable insights on cyber threats and insurance, including:
The key factors that are forcing huge spikes in...2022-04-2750 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow Agents Can Sell More VirtuallyFor the insurance producer, COVID claimed a reliable marketing tool—in-person meetings. Agents were forced to communicate online; some figured it out, some hated it, and many were in-between.
Now, a series of best practices can make online selling a high-leverage (and easy-to-use) avenue that saves time and boosts conversion rates.
In this workshop-style episode, Amazon best-selling author, international sales trainer, and Founder and CEO of The Authority Factor, Steve Brossman, shares his method for the mastery of online selling:
What to do before an appointment to boost the “buy...2022-04-0649 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastMaking Insurance Better for the CustomerJeff Harris, Co-Founder, CEO, Appulate
Years ago, this tech entrepreneur groaned at the sight of the insurance application process. So he decided to do something about it. 250,000 users later, Jeff Harris, Co-Founder, and CEO of Appulate can claim some progress. Founded 17 years ago, Appulate is one of the industry’s earliest insurtechs and one of the most widely distributed today.
In this important essential discussion, Jeff shares insights on:
What parts of the insurance process can be fixed by pushing buttons, and the parts that should be reserved for the human...2022-03-2357 minThe Insura-Preneur PodcastCould This be the Future of the Insurance Agency?Aaron Gordon, Vice President, Gordon Companies Insurance Services
Our guest Aaron Gordon is a second-generation insurance agent with 11 years in his family’s agency in Manhattan—and is rapidly becoming a leading voice for millennials in the insurance industry. Aaron has something to say to boomers as well as younger generations: “The future is bright.” However, there’s a big “but” attached to that optimism.
Listen to hear Aaron share insights on:
What to know about recruiting and retaining talent today
Why Gen X and millennials are saying “Thank you” to the boomer generatio...2022-03-0951 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastNational PIA Survey Reveals Major Agency TrendsMike Becker, CEO, National Association of Professional Insurance Agents
The Industry is changing, consumer behavior is changing, and so are agencies. But how well are today’s agents keeping up with market trends? What about your agency?
Our guest, Mike Becker, CEO of the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents will help answer this question and share the results from the just-release 2022 Annual Independent Agent Survey. PIA and National Underwriter worked together to ask thousands of agents the questions we need to get our finger on the “state of the agency” today.
2022-02-1652 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat Agents Must Know About Cybersecurity CoverageKingsley Flynn, Head of Insurance, Sayata
A client shows up at their office at 8 am, turns on their computer… and sees a ransom demand. After breaking out in a cold sweat, they call you. What do you say?
This scenario doesn’t “only happen in movies” anymore, it could happen to any agency, as it already has for others. And protecting, advising, and guiding a client’s cyber decision-making is quickly becoming an agent’s job.
Our guest, Kingsley Flynn, Head of Insurance at Sayata brings 46 years of insurance experience—from...2022-01-2739 minThe Insura-Preneur Podcast7 Predictions for Insurance Marketing in 2022Michael Jans, Co-Founder, Agency Revolution, Principal, Michael Jans Advisory
In recent years we’ve seen a dizzying pace of change, a steady stream of new tech, and constant changes in consumer behavior. Against a backdrop like this, how should an agency grow in 2022?
Our podcast host, Michael Jans, dives into that very question and delivers 7 predictions for insurance marketing, including:
What fast-growth agencies are doing differently than average agencies
How will the agency tech stack look different in 2022
How hungry agencies can rise above the noise and command their market
2022-01-1234 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Insurance Agency Leadership ChallengeJim Kouzes, WSJ Best-Selling Author, The Leadership Challenge
Whether you’re recruiting talent or guiding your agency to new strategies, your business demands the clarity, vision, and direction of a strong leader. In this conversation, Jim Kouzes delivers straight talk to agency principals. Jim is the author of The Leadership Challenge, a WSJ Best-Seller and Fast Company’s Best Business Book of the year. Jim was declared one of the twelve best educators in the U.S.
In this eye-opening discussion, Jim shares:
A 5-step model to becoming a stronger, better, and more re...2021-12-221h 00
The Insura-Preneur PodcastSimplifying Life for Agent and Customer AlikeNobody is a fan of the insurance application process, especially not your busy customers. Peter MacDonald, Cofounder, and CEO of Wunderite sees a better way to do things—where technology handles the heavy lifting to make life simpler for agents and customers alike.
In this robust discussion, Peter and Michael discuss:
How agencies can recruit and retain talent in a competitive job market
What agents are doing now to simplify the application process
Understanding the key triggers that drive people to purchase insurance
How agency principals should structure their technology buying process
2021-12-0253 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow This Agency Gew from $1.5 Million to $100 MillionMike Mathisen, CEO, Owner, Colorado Insurance
"I bought a small, $1.5 million premium book. We had an 85% retention rate. Now, we're pushing $100 million in premium with a 93% retention." Mike Mathisen, President, Colorado Insurance, made a few key, strategic decisions in the year 2000. 21 years and almost $99 million in new premium later, Mike looks back and shares key insights to the secrets of super-high Organic Growth:
The method Mike uses to keep his team focused on key growth indicators
Mike’s strategy to achieve high retention on a super-sized book of business
His twist on the traditional structure to tur...2021-11-1852 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow Tech Enhances the Human TouchLuis Pino, CEO, Founder, Agentero
Many insurance agents push back on new technologies in fear of losing the human touch. Luis Pino, CEO & Founder of Agentero and former Analyst at McKinsey & Co., believes the right use of tech will do just the opposite, freeing you up for more human touches and supporting you where expertise is most needed.
Luis shares insights on the fast-moving world of agency distribution and technology:
How to use new tech to enhance the agent’s role as a trusted advisor
Simple ways tech will free your time so you...2021-10-2742 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow This Agency Grew Their Top Niche 30% YoYMarc Petersen, President, American Advantage - Petersen Group
How did Marc Petersen, President of American Advantage - Petersen Group, pull off such fantastic growth results? Most agencies do it by “hiring more producers,” but for this agency, the secret to success was a robust communication strategy.
In this revealing podcast discussion, Marc openly shares his strategy for rapid and reliable growth:
Why building the right content for your audience changes everything
Marc’s strategy for nurturing his growing leads list and converting them into clients
How the content strategy de-emphasizes insurance to get the conversation started
If or...2021-10-1336 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Near Future of InsurtechAgents who are serious about the growth of their agency need to know what the future looks like. And if anyone has a crystal ball, it would be Susanne Chishti. Editor of The Insurtech Book, CEO of FINTECH Circle, and Investment Week’s “Social Media Influencer of the Year,” Susanne is a leading insurtech investor, and winner of too many awards to list here.
In this robust conversation, Susanne shares her perspective on:
What insurtech will likely look like in the near and midterm future for agencies
Changes coming to personal and small commercial lines markets
The thr...2021-09-2952 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastThought Leadership: 9 Steps to Stand OutThe internet gave everyone a megaphone. Every business is a communications business, and the airwaves are full of noise, clamor, and confusion. How can your agency stand out from the crowd? To be the one your market listens to, respects, and follows? Michael Jans shares his journey for finding the answer with thought leadership marketing.
Listen now to hear Michael share:
The 4 building blocks of thought leadership marketing
A step-by-step method to earn the attention that becomes long-term loyalty
Why thought leadership marketing generates high-quality leads and earns maximum customer lifetime value
If marketing with...2021-09-1552 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastA Commercial Desk BreakthroughCommercial lines producers know the desk can be chaos—making it harder to provide clients with a great experience without getting overworked. Erik Mitisek, CEO of Highwing believes he’s solving that problem with a multi-carrier and multi-line platform that slashes time and cuts out the confusion.
In this conversation, Erik shares his perspective on what today’s agency must know and do:
Why “the biggest currency is speed” and how agencies can move faster than their competitors with the right tools
How to use data to make the right decisions to grow your agency
How agencies can...2021-08-1835 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat Agents Need to Know TodayLucas Jans, VP, Product, Agency Revolution
Technology has been changing everything from consumer behavior to carrier strategy to agency operations. Lucas Jans, VP of Product at Agency Revolution, has been building tech solutions for insurance agencies for more than 20 years. With one of the industry’s largest tech teams, he oversees a constant stream of updates, product innovations, and new technologies with the goal of making tech useful and easy for agents to use.
In this important podcast, Luke and Michael discuss the future of the insurance agency with insights on:
Why...2021-08-0636 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastInstant Insurance from Independent AgenciesSteve Lekas, Co-Founder, CEO, Branch Insurance
Branch Insurance has convinced some of the top investors that it’s cracked the code on “instant insurance” for independent agencies—and it’s convincing more and more consumers of the same. How? By asking fewer underwriting questions. Name and address don’t just get you a quote, it gets you one click from binding insurance.
In this episode, Branch Insurance Co-Founder and CEO shares insights and secrets on:
How public data is transforming the client acquisition process
What consumers have declared they wish would change abo...2021-07-2141 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastCOO Describes How Agency Skyrocketed GrowthWhitney Norcup, COO, Columbia Insurance & Wealth Management
Whitney Norcup, COO of Columbia Insurance & Wealth Management tells the “before and after” story of her company. How they went from a small, stagnant agency trying to figure out the modern insurance landscape to a fast-growth agency with deeper customer relationships and a bright new future. When Whitney joined her family-run agency, she brought experience from outside the industry with her and was able to see different ways of doing business.
In this podcast Whitney readily shares secrets to her agency’s success:
What the a...2021-07-0745 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow to Never Sell on Price AgainYou might think your customer only wants the lowest price—but that isn’t the case for independent insurance agencies. Selling on price kills profits and brings bad customers. But when today’s customer hears about saving money on insurance all day long, how do you avoid selling on price?
On this episode we have one of the nation’s top pricing experts, Reed Holden, Founder and Coach at Holden Advisors and author of Pricing with Confidence: Ten Ways to Stop Leaving Money on the Table. With articles published by Harvard Business Review, The Journal of Busine...2021-06-2345 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastLending Tree Enters Insurance. Here’s What They See.Jeff Hogue, Director - Insurance, Agent Sales, QuoteWizard
When the loan giant, Lending Tree, entered the insurance industry by acquiring QuoteWizard, they gained powerful data about how people shop for insurance. Last month, they received 1,000,000 online quotes, 50,000 inbound phone calls, and thousands of conversations with insurance agents.
Jeff Hogue, Director of Insurance and Agent Sales at QuoteWizard shares his unique perspective on:
The turbulence in the captive agency market, and what that means to the independent channel
How the industry turned pain points from the pandemic into a benefit
How indep...2021-06-0941 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat 60 Million Policyholders Taught Us About Customer RelationshipAnurag Shah, CEO, Co-Founder, Aureus Analytics
Anurag Shah, CEO and Co-Founder of Aureus Analytics has been studying how customers feel about their insurance providers. First with carriers around the globe, and most recently with independent insurance agencies. After processing management systems and interaction data across more than 60 million policyholders, Anurag has crafted a way to measure customer loyalty en masse and down to the individual level.
In this eye-opening podcast, Anurag shares his perspective on:
How agency-customer relationships degrade over time—and how to fix it
Why you need to dig pas...2021-06-0244 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastJ.D. Power Reveals What Insurance Consumers WantTom Super, Head of P&C Insurance, J.D. Power
Tom Super, Head of P&C Insurance at J.D. Power, returns to the podcast with the latest research and insights on the modern insurance consumer. The pandemic pushed already changing consumer expectations farther and faster than ever. Don’t let your agency fall behind the curve.
In this important discussion, Tom shares research on:
How the pandemic changed insurance shopping, and what’s different after one year
Market segments and demographics best suited for the independent agency channel
What insuranc...2021-05-2643 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastIndustry Cybersecurity Expert Exposes New RisksBrad Ruben, President, Archway Computer
You may be surprised by some of the advice delivered by insurance technology and cybersecurity expert Brad Ruben, President of Archway Computer—but you may be more surprised by some of his predictions. Brad delivers practical advice every insurance agency principal and IT support person should listen to immediately.
Listen to this episode to learn:
Real examples of agencies that were struck by ransomware, and which actions would have protected them
Why phishing attacks went up 600% during the pandemic, and simple steps to protect your agency...2021-05-1940 min
The Awoken AthleteDr Michael Klaper - Eat your GreensIn episode #13 I sit down with Dr Michael Klaper. A physician, consultant and educator, helps clients and patients around the world on their journey to health and well-being.Specifically we cover:> Importance of chewing your food> Why we need to eat more greens> Fasting> Why Dairy is scary> Fibre and why its importantWant to support the show?The single best way you can support the show is by leaving a review on Apple podcast app - it only takes a few minutes...2021-05-171h 15
Uncaptive Agency: The Future of InsuranceEP 22 | Client Relations and Retention for Agency Growth with Michael JansJoin me as I discuss how client relations and retention are a game changer for agency growth with Michael Jans, insurance pro and founder of the Next Level Organic Growth Program.Michael Jans has been a force in marketing and consulting to the independent insurance agency force for the last 25 or 30 years, and he is still coming up with fresh ideas to stay ahead of the market.He talks with me about his approach to organic growth based on a good inbound sales funnel and a strong focus on retention and building customer loyalty. Times...2021-05-1350 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Next Wave of InsurtechWhen Zenefits ran into one of the largest compliance crises in the industry, they turned to Niji Sabharwal. He learned two important lessons. One—in his own words—brokers aren’t going anywhere. Two, they really need help with compliance. So a new insurtech was born. Rapid traction in the marketplace, $36 million in Series A funding, and 61 employees later, Niji, as CEO of AgentSync, sees a new wave of insurtech heading our direction.
Niji and podcast host Michael discuss:
Why agents and brokers aren’t going anywhere, and how they’ll look different in...2021-05-1243 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastA Modern Insurance Marketing StrategyJeffery Arnold, President, Rightsure Insurance Group
In this podcast, President of Rightsure Insurance Group, Jeffery Arnold delivers practical advice based on real-world experience for a robust conversation that will open your eyes to modern insurance marketing.
Jeff and podcast host Michael discuss:
The three most important technologies to add to your agency
How the role of agency leadership has changed in recent years
How to be enabled and forward-thinking about tech without being shackled to it
If you’re looking for proven strategies to grow your insurance agency, don’t miss t...2021-05-0534 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Current Property and Commercial Insurance TransitionIn some niches, premiums are on the rise. Today’s agency principals and producers need a plan. For this discussion, podcast host Michael Jans turned to someone who spends his time in the midst of this turbulence. Former CEO of Bigfoot Insurance—one of the fastest growing MGA’s in the U.S.—and now a Managing Director for One80 Intermediaries, Martin Burlingame describes today’s insurance pricing as the perfect storm.
In this podcast, Martin pulls back the curtain on:
How the last four years of natural disasters have changed the way underwrite...2021-04-2844 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat the Best Commercial Lines Producers Are Doing DifferentlyScott Knowles, CEO, Modgic
Scott Knowles, CEO of Modgic, works with commercial lines producers every day. His warning may be familiar—step up to the modern age of insurance—but his advice is practical and proven in the real world of commercial lines sales.
In this fast-paced podcast, Scott shares his insights on:
What “super-producers” do differently than most commercial lines producers
How to get your prospects to focus on the long term when they think of your agency
The simple method great commercial lines producers use to make themselves irreplaceable
With n...2021-04-2144 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastPractical Strategic Advice from a Top Industry LeaderTony Caldwell, Co-Founder, Chairman, CEO, One Agents Alliance
Why is Tony Caldwell’s new book, The UnCaptive Agent, a #1 Amazon new release and bestseller? Because it reveals his practical approach to success in the independent agency system. Tony moves over $500 million in premium and oversees 185 agencies in his network, OAA, and runs the largest master agency in SIAA.
In this conversation, Tony and podcast host Michael discuss:
The declining role of geography for independent agencies
Why agencies need to focus on maximum customer lifetime value
A practical action plan for succes...2021-04-1454 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastCEO of SIAA on the Future of Independent AgentsMatt Masiello, CEO, Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance
With $9.5 billion in premium, almost 5,000 agents in his network across 48 states, CEO of SIAA, Matt Masiello has a unique perspective on the independent agent. Matt might negotiate a multi-million dollar contract with a national carrier in the morning and advise a from-scratch mom-and-pop agency in the afternoon.
In this podcast, Matt shares his perspective on:
The shifting market share between the captive, direct, and independent channels
Amazon’s introduction to the small commercial insurance market—and how the industry needs to respond
How today’s agents ca...2021-04-0745 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow to Increase Your Agency’s ValuationAs private equity firms flood the market, agency valuations are rising higher and higher. How can today’s agency principal take advantage of these conditions?
In this practical and informative podcast, Michael Mensch discusses how to navigate the turbulent and fast-moving acquisition market, and how agency principals can boost their valuation for the biggest payoff. Michael Mensch, President of Agency Brokerage Consultants, has assisted in over 200 M&A transactions and over 1000 agency valuations.
In this conversation, Michael Mensch and podcast host Michael Jans discuss:
The sweeping trends that are c...2021-03-3139 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastInsurance Agency Data BreakthroughAgents have dreamed of rich customer data for years. Alan Ringvald, CEO of Relativity6, is making that dream a reality. When you combine that data with artificial intelligence and automation, you protect customers better, keep them longer, and create deeper relationships.
In this discussion, Alan and podcast host Michael discuss:
How blending internal and external data reveals easily missed insights
The critical aspects of the customer relationship agency management systems miss
How good data helps agents maximize customer lifetime value
If you’re seeking stronger customer relationships, don’t miss this discuss...2021-03-2445 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastKevin Callahan, Chairman, CEO, Renaissance AllianceKevin Callahan took Allstate public, was CEO of Allianz, Partner at Accenture, and Head of Global Sales at Marsh. In other words, Kevin knows P&C insurance. Now, as CEO of Renaissance Alliance, he is dedicated to helping agents get to the next level with tools, technology, strategy, and resources.
In this discussion, Kevin shares his perspective on:
Why agents are the most important part of the P&C value-chain
The key drivers of organic growth in the modern insurance landscape
How independent agents can compete for growth against other channels and othe...2021-03-1759 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat the Future of Insurtech Means for Your AgencyWhen you think “insurance” plus “technology,” Jay Weintraub just might be the first person you think of. As Co-Founder and CEO of InsureTech Connect, Jay hosts what might be the largest insurance conference in the world—and nothing says “change” to the industry like the intersection of insurance and technology.
In this conversation, Jay and Michael discuss:
How the insurtech roadmap is affecting agencies today
What agency principals must do now to get digital before it’s too late
Jay’s advice on the single most important thing for agents to focus on
Techn...2021-03-1039 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastScaling the Independent Insurance AgencyNick Andrews, Marketing Project Manager, Liberty Mutual Insurance
Having helped develop marketing plans for countless agencies across the nation, average agency growth isn’t good enough for Nick Andrews. In this discussion packed with practical information, Michael and Nick tackle the question of how to scale today’s insurance agencies.
In this conversation, Nick shares his perspective on:
The common traits of fast-growing agencies
The tools helping agencies increase revenue and earn customer loyalty
How some agencies are finding growth in unexpected ways
If you’re looking to grow you...2021-03-0333 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastSecrets to Organic Growth TodayFor nearly 30 years Randy Schwantz has been guiding insurance agencies to the next level of growth through The Wedge Group. When COVID hit, producers across the world panicked as their traditional channels of communication were slammed shut. In spite of these challenges, many producers had their best year ever.
In this practical discussion, Randy reveals:
How successful producers are shooting ahead during the pandemic
The future of commercial lines lead generation
How agency principals can help producers develop
If you’re serious about boosting your agency’s organic growth, don’t mis...2021-02-2440 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastA Commercial Lines BreakthroughBinding commercial insurance policies have always required a little more work. Our guest, Adam Kiefer, Co-Founder, and CEO of Talage, set out to build a software platform that enables independent insurance agents to easily sell and bind commercial insurance policies online. Thanks to changing attitudes from major carriers and new insurtech advancements, agents are empowered to serve commercial lines consumers better than ever.
In this conversation, Adam reveals:
How changing consumer expectations have driven game-changing tech investments
What carriers are doing to help agents meet modern consumer needs
His vision for the fu...2021-02-1735 min
The Insura-Preneur Podcast4 Trends for Growth-Minded Insurance AgenciesPatti Newcomer, CMO, FMG Suite, Agency Revolution
Keeping up with the fast-paced world of marketing and technology is a full-time job, and for our guest, it is. After a stellar career as Vice President of Marketing at Intuit, Vice President of Brand Marketing at Capital One, and Section Head at Procter & Gamble, Patti Newcomer shares her insights from her new position as Chief Marketing Officer at FMG Suite, the parent company of Agency Revolution.
In this practical and forward-thinking discussion, Patti reveals:
Four marketing trends agents can’t ignore
How to personalize marketing for better results
Tip...2021-02-1043 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastEasy to Implement Digital Marketing AdviceToday’s insurance consumers spend more time in the digital world than ever before. If we want to reach them, sell to them, and nurture them, we can’t ignore the numerous ways digital marketing will help. The fast pace of change and sea of choices often confuses and paralyzes a lot of agents.
Our guest, Seth Greene, lays out a clear path, including:
How to generate more referrals
Where to get the best results for your advertising dollar
How to build a marketing funnel that will drive traffic to your agency
Listen now and learn...2021-02-0330 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastInsurtech Trends in 2021Best-selling author of The Bezos Letters, Steve Anderson, has been one of the independent insurance channel’s top technology thought leaders for over 25 years. In this discussion, he shares advice to help agents make better technology and productivity decisions for their agencies.
Listen to this episode for Steve’s insight about:
The forces accelerating the adoption of insurtech
How agents must respond to changes in consumer behavior over the last year
The critical issues agents must consider as they adopt new technologies
Don’t miss this discussion with one of the most well-respected tech thought leader...2021-01-2748 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastA Five Point Bump in Retention in One YearRhett VanScoter, Owner, VanScoter Insurance Agency
15 years ago Rhett VanScoter took a step back from the accounting world to start his own independent insurance agency from scratch. Like all startup agencies, he quickly realized the value of every single customer. Fast forward to today, VanScoter Insurance Agency boosted its retention rate by five points in a single year and now holds among the highest NPS® scores in any industry. Year after year, the customer loyalty his agency has earned consistently turns into growth.
In this discussion, Rhett reveals:
His top campaigns to conti...2021-01-2035 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastGrow Your Agency Using VideoJason Carter, Owner, Music & Video Producer, Wavelength Studio
As the demand for video marketing grows, Jason Carter reveals small tweaks that remove the roadblocks between your agency and great video marketing. Jason is the founder of Wavelength Studio and has produced thousands of hours of Michael Jans’ insurance marketing trainings, boot camps, interviews, and promotional videos.
In this discussion, Jason reveals:
Simple advice to clear your hang-ups and camera anxiety for great video
Tips on how to create engaging video your audience will watch through
How to use video to boost...2021-01-1353 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastDriving Quality Website Traffic in 2021Kevin Chow, Manager, SEO & Paid Media, A Cloud Guru
Getting results with SEO, PPC, and social media doesn’t need to be a mystery. Our guest, Kevin Chow, has been a digital marketing expert for nearly as long as digital marketing itself has existed. Even better, Kevin has worked with hundreds of insurance agencies since his time at Agency Revolution a decade ago.
In this jam-packed podcast, Kevin shares:
The single most important way to boost search traffic now
How to prepare for Google’s big May 2021 algorithm update
Tools and tips...2021-01-061h 05
The Insura-Preneur PodcastTraining the New Generation for InsuranceJordan Goodman, Co-Founder, CFO, Total CSR, Inc, CEO, Goodman Insurance Services, Inc.
When Jordan Goodman and his brother took the reins of their third generation insurance agency, they noticed a troubling trend: high turnover. With 25% of the industry expected to retire in the next four years, it became clear this was an industry-wide problem.
How do you train new workers – especially if they have no industry experience? Jordan and his brother set out to create a solution and built Total CSR, which helps over 1,300 agencies solve their talent problem. In this episode, Jordan shares...2020-12-1649 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastPractical Tactics to Drive Website TrafficJordan Leavitt, Digital Marketing Team Lead, Agency Revolution
More traffic means more business, but how does an insurance agent make that happen?
Our guest, Jordan Leavitt, clears away the confusion and delivers straight answers and easy solutions. Jordan worked directly for the renowned Neil Patel and now serves as the Digital Marketing Team Lead here at Agency Revolution.
Listen now for practical answers to your biggest digital marketing questions, including:
PPC Advertising: how it works and when you should use it
How to cut the fat and d...2020-12-0955 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastAttracting Great Insurance Leads on SocialBrett Allen, Founder, Social Selling Guide, BOSS Social
As the former Director of Social Selling at The Hartford and social media expert for Safeco’s Bricks & Clicks program, Brett is a pioneer of social media strategies for growth-driven agencies. Now, as Founder and Social Selling Guide at BOSS Social, Brett has designed a step-by-step system any agency can follow.
You’ll discover powerful and practical advice in this podcast that will boost your lead generation and client engagement, including:
How successful ‘social agents’ make engagement and growth easy
A simple method to at...2020-12-0257 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastPowerful Strategic Advice for Agency LeadersDennis Chookaszian, Adjunct Professor, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Former Chair & CEO, CNA Insurance
With 25 years at CNA Insurance and years consulting and guiding businesses to success, Dennis Chookaszian may have a clearer view of the insurance industry and where it’s going than anyone.
In this important discussion, Dennis delivers a masterclass on insurance strategy every agency leader should take note of. Listen for insights about:
How to take advantage of forces beyond your control
What agency principals must focus on and avoid as we move into the f...2020-11-181h 02
The Insura-Preneur Podcast1,800 Newly Independent Insurance AgenciesKenny Urbania, President, CEO, Agency Collective, The Agency Cluster
Gary Hines, Executive Vice President, COO, Agency Collective, The Agency Cluster
In one fell swoop, 1,800 captive Nationwide agencies were unleashed to the independent world this summer. How will this affect the independent channel? How will these agencies handle the transition?
Our guests, Kenny Urbania and Gary Hines are in the thick of it, learning answers to important questions. They opened up The Agency Collective to help those agencies make their transition and quickly attracted hundreds of agencies seeking help.
In t...2020-11-1150 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhat’s on the Mind of Today’s Agents and Leaders?Justin Lair, Senior Enterprise Development Manager, Agency Revolution
Few people engage as many people in the insurance industry as this episode’s guest, Justin Lair, Senior Enterprise Development Manager at Agency Revolution.
Justin has heard it all—but what’s most fascinating is how dramatically these conversations have changed over the years. In this eye-opening discussion, Justin shares insights on:
How COVID forced thousands of agents to pick up the pace of change
Why the conversation has changed course in the last two to three years
How this year’s sudden change...2020-11-0542 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastSeven Skills Agencies Need to SucceedCo-Founder, Agency Revolution, Principal, Michael Jans Advisory
The path to success for today’s insurance agent is far different than it used to be. The pace of change is demanding that agents adapt faster. Our host, Michael Jans, takes the microphone to share powerful insights on the new skills agencies need to master in today’s insurance landscape.
Listen to this episode to learn:
Simple methods to meet the changing demands of modern consumers
What fast-growth agencies are doing to get maximum customer lifetime value
How to leave behind old-school tactics...2020-10-2859 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhy Some Agencies are Thriving in 2020Madelyn Flannagan, Vice President, Agent Development, Education, and Research, IIABA
Madelyn Flannagan lives, breathes, analyzes, and guides the independent agents in America’s workforce. How are agents doing now? Who is thriving and who is not? How has the pandemic affected the independent agent channel? How will that change the future of agent operations?
Madelyn dives into her research and observations to share insights on:
What successful agents in 2020 are doing differently
The business characteristic that will be crucial for agents moving forward
Big changes agencies are making now to prepar...2020-10-2148 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastModernizing Insurance Industry StandardsMica Cooper, CEO, President, InsureCrypt
Few things strike at the heart of day-to-day agency operations like standards—the manner in which data is transferred from one place to another. Industry pundits declare that legacy standards are hurting the independent agency channel, even more than the direct, digital, and captive channels.
Mica Cooper—Founder and CEO of InsureCrypt, former System Architect at Vertafore and former Senior Architect at Hotels.com—is one industry leader who takes this seriously. He wants agents to understand how deeply this affects profits, customer satisfaction, and innovation.
In th...2020-10-1444 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastPractical Growth Tactics for the Modern Insurance AgentJeremiah Desmarais, Best-selling Author, Keynote Speaker, Insurance Marketing Expert
It’s hard to keep up. What once worked loses efficacy. New things pop up left and right. How do you know what to do, and what to ignore? What will grow your agency? What will waste your time?
In this episode, we get practical with one of the industry’s most respected marketers. Jeremiah Desmarais is the former VP of Marketing for Applied Systems and a long-time marketing consultant to agents and financial advisors.
In this episode, Jeremiah shares:
...2020-10-0752 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastIs your agency ready for the new economy?Jay Bregman, Founder, CEO, Thimble
By 2021 over half of small and medium businesses will be owned by millennials. By 2027 the majority of the US workforce will work as freelancers. Is your agency ready to serve them? Jay Bregman saw three things about the “new economy” that tend to make traditional insurance agencies frightened: It’s moving. It’s fast. It’s different.
As Founder & CEO of Thimble—an insurtech with substantial backing—Jay reveals:
How his company can craft policies as short as a month or even an hour
How agents can serve the freelan...2020-09-3036 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastNYT Best-Selling Author Dr. Robert CialdiniRobert Cialdini, President, Influence at Work, New York Times Best-Selling Author
Our host, Michael Jans, describes this week’s guest’s best-seller Influence: The New Psychology of Modern Persuasion as “the most important book in my marketing library.” President of Influence at Work, Dr. Cialdini is hailed by marketers, academics, industry leaders, and media around the world. Listen to this discussion for Robert’s keen insight that every producer, principal, and marketer in the insurance industry should take note of:
How to leverage the six proven principles of persuasion in your agency.
Easy tweaks to make your...2020-09-231h 00
The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Untapped Goldmine in Agency DataRyan Deeds, Vice President, Technology and Data, Assurex Global
Ryan Deeds, VP of Technology and Data at Assurex Global has been digging deep into one of the largest goldmines of data in the insurance world: agency data. Listen to this fast-paced discussion to learn how he’s helping Assurex’s agency partners leverage this data for consistent revenue growth:
Four data points every agency can use to fuel reliable growth
How to find your best growth strategy by analyzing your segmentation
Why insurance consumers are “buying differently” and how to attract the right leads
...2020-09-1651 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow Climate Change is Already Impacting InsurancePeter Picetti, Senior Vice President, Heffernan Insurance Brokers
Climate change is often treated as a problem that won’t impact most of us until much further down the road. According to our guest, Peter Picetti, SVP of Heffernan Insurance Brokers—one of the largest independent agencies in the nation—this couldn’t be further from the truth.
In this timely conversation, this 30 year veteran of the insurance industry explains why climate change keeps him up at night, and why agents should prepare their own plan of action now. Listen for Peter’s insight on:
2020-09-0943 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow Telematics Helps Today’s Insurance AgentChief Customer Officer, TrueMotion
Telematics isn’t the newest technology, but advancements in adjacent technology—GPS accuracy, machine learning, and smartphones—has made telematics an effective tool to increase customer satisfaction, and boost retention.
David Morse is the Chief Customer Officer at TrueMotion, the leading smartphone-only driving data platform. In this fascinating discussion, David reveals:
How your agency can leverage telematics
How telematics can help you be there for your customers the moment they need you most
Why captive and direct carriers are dominating the telematic market—and how it’s changing the way they...2020-09-0252 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastBest-Selling Author Shares Practical Roadmap to SuccessBryan Falchuck, Founder and Managing Partner, Insurance Evolution Partners
Our guest, Bryan Falchuck, Founder and Managing Partner at Insurance Evolution Partners, offers a roadmap to success based on real-world successes.
Bryan is the best-selling author of The Future of Insurance, and a 20 year insurance industry veteran with experience at Liberty Mutual, Beazley, Hiscox, McKinsey, and more. Bryan’s strategies and tactics are based on transformative success stories and high-quality data. Listen to this discussion to learn:
Bryan’s “three themes” of reliable success in today’s insurance world
Strategies to reach the performance l...2020-08-261h 08
The Insura-Preneur PodcastAI is Entering the Independent Agency ChannelRon Glozman, CEO & Founder, Chisel AI
The magic of AI is hitting the independent agency channel. Ron Glozman, Founder and CEO of Chisel AI shares the story of this hot new insurtech went from dorm room project to “the one to watch.”
Chisel won the Gold Award at the Zurich Innovation World Championship. After being crowned the winner of the ACORD Insurtech Innovation Challenge, Ron was named “Insurance Innovator to Watch” by Digital Insurance Magazine. Now, sitting on a growing influx of venture funding, Ron’s company is changing the way agencies operate.
If you w...2020-08-1948 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastVertafore CEO’s Vision of the Independent Agent’s FutureAmy Zupon, CEO, Vertafore
Some thought leaders predict the future. Some describe it. Very few shape it. As CEO of one of the largest technology firms in insurance, Amy Zupon has a reach and influence that affects the business and lives of tens of thousands of independent insurance agents.
In this robust conversation, Amy reveals her insights on the trends and forces that are rapidly changing the demands of the entire agency channel—and delivers practical advice for agency principals who want to control their future. Listen to this discussion to learn:
How ch...2020-08-1252 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastWhere agency software is going and what you need to do nowLucas Jans, Vice President of Product, Agency Revolution
For 21 years Lucas Jans has designed and delivered software solutions for independent insurance agencies. From ZipDrip—the industry’s first automated email marketing system in 1999—to Fuse™, the intelligent automated marketing powerhouse we offer today, Lucas has a unique perspective on how agencies should think about software and make buying decisions that will help them scale. Listen to Lucas’ insights on:
Critical criteria to help agency principals make the best buying decisions for their agency
Newer technologies that are changing how the independent agency system operates
Common expensive mistakes age...2020-08-051h 02The Insura-Preneur PodcastThe Three Ultimate Secrets to Organic Agency GrowthMichael Jans, Founder, Agency Revolution, Principal, Michael Jans Advisory
The modern insurance age presents unique challenges, and many agents struggle with what to do next. In this episode Michael Jans takes center stage to present a simple, but powerful way to thrive in today’s marketplace. Michael delivers a clear path and plan for agency growth, including:
The secret about the modern insurance consumer most agents miss
A five stage path and plan to help agencies avoid confusion, expensive mistakes, and wasted time – and instead achieve growth
Where to look for the money in today’s fast mov...2020-07-291h 08
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow AI is Changing the Shape of InsuranceCEO, Head of Research, Emerj Artificial Intelligence Research
While the world is whizzing by at record speed, Dan Faggella has a keen sense of where it’s going. Emerj Artificial Intelligence Research is called upon by organizations like the World Bank, United Nations, INTERPOL, and global insurance and banking companies to help them navigate the landscape of artificial intelligence.
In this discussion, Dan and Michael strip AI down to the basics. What it is. What it does. Why it matters—in real and practical ways—to the modern insurance agent. Listen to this discussion to learn:2020-07-2241 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastInvesting in the Client Journey Paid Off For This AgencyJoanna Paredes, Quality Assurance Manager, Swingle Collins & Associates
Swingle Collins & Associates is one of the largest privately owned agencies in Texas. Like any other agency in the modern era, getting to the next level meant change, and change can be hard.
Listen to this discussion to learn how a well established agency embraced modern communication to not just meet the expectations of today’s consumers, but win the hearts and support of their
producers.
How Joanna used automation to improve client satisfaction and boost retention
Tips to increase policy per clie...2020-07-1548 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastTraffic and Lead Gen Secrets for Insurance AgentsJohn Lincoln, CEO, Ignite Visibility
This episode is so jam-packed with practical organic growth tips, you’ll be tempted to put it on repeat. John Lincoln is the CEO of Ignite Visibility—a 2017, 2018, and 2019 Inc. 5,000 company and winner of the Search Engine Land “Search Marketer of the Year” award.
As CEO of a 90+ person marketing agency, John has overseen some of the most successful digital marketing campaigns of the last decade, including some prominent names in the insurance industry. Listen to this episode to learn:
Practical SEO strategies even the busiest agency can execute...2020-07-0852 min
The Insura-Preneur PodcastHow Agents Need to Change Their Role for the FutureDirector, North American Property Casualty Practice, Celent
The forces pushing insurance into the future are fast, strong, and difficult to predict. Donald Light has been studying these forces for 35 years, and he has some insight and advice for today’s independent agent.
Donald is the Director of the North American Property Casualty Practice at Celent, a leading insurance advisory firm. In this podcast, Donald sheds light on:
How auto insurance will change as autonomous vehicles, telematics, and data-driven safety features become standardized
The long-term impact of COVID-19 and how agents need to chang...2020-06-2446 min