Shows
IA ForwardWe’re Here to Run A Business with Aaron and Justin HusmanShane and Tonya sit down with Justin and Aaron Husman of The Phoenix Insurance to discuss the mindset shift from “helping people” to strategically running a successful agency. They discuss building a business with intention, protecting your time, selecting employees and clients, and making decisions that set your agency up for real growth and profitability.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2025-03-0438 min
IA ForwardCelebrating Shane's 50th Birthday and What He Has Learned In A Half CenturyShane celebrates the half century mark today, with a little nostalgia and a lot of great advice on being a successful agency owner.Learn more at iaforward.com and follow IA Forward on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-08-2824 min
IA ForwardWhat Millennials & Gen Z Think About Insurance - And It's Not What You're AssumingShane and Tonya discuss a surprising recent article from Insurance Journal on what Millennials and Gen Z think about insurance, as well as Shane's recent experience with his daughter purchasing insurance for the first time. Learn more at iaforward.com and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-07-2723 min
IA ForwardThe Second "Ask Shane" EpisodeIn this episode of "Ask Shane," we cover the insurance score, direct mail, hiring and training, selling cyber insurance, carrier reps, training our customers, and more. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-04-2725 minIA ForwardThe "Ask Shane" EpisodeShane answers questions from agents about purchasing an agency, CIC tips and tricks, what to do when going on vacation, how to handle unpleasant clients, being licensed in multiple states, and more. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-03-1624 minIA ForwardWhen Does A Hard Market Look Like A Soft Market?Shane and Tonya discuss how hard market conditions are actually similar to soft market conditions for an agency owner, and what this means for long term growth.Join the IA Forward community of agents on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-02-0923 minIA ForwardYour Agency Needs A Hedgehog (Seriously)Are you a hedgehog or a fox? Shane and Tonya discuss The Hedgehog Concept and how it is key to your insurance agency's success. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-02-0225 minIA ForwardWorking With Clients Through Language BarriersShane and Tonya tackle language barriers, along with cultural and generational differences, how they affect our customer service experience, and what E&O exposure that we have. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-3022 minIA ForwardWhat Role Should Government Play In The Insurance Industry?Shane and Tonya get a bit political, discussing the roles that state and federal governments play in the insurance industry, as well as the importance of carrier, employee, and client relationships.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-2624 minIA ForwardLessons From The Dallas Cowboys Kicker Debacle And How They Apply To Our AgenciesShane and Tonya discuss the Dallas Cowboys versus Tampa Bay Buccaneers game, and all of the lessons that we can apply to our insurance agencies.Join the IA Forward community of agents on social media or learn more at IAForward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-2325 minIA ForwardBreaking of Cycle of Living Month-to-MonthMany people start their own agencies to quit living paycheck-to-paycheck working for someone else (or they got mad at their boss). Shane and Tonya discuss how paycheck-to-paycheck can turn into month-to-month, payment-to-payment as an agency owner, and how to break the cycle.Join the IA Forward community of agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-1923 minIA ForwardTime Poverty, Over-Commitment, Schedule Management, And Just Saying NoShane and Tonya tackle the concept of time poverty, and discuss ways to free up more time for a more effective and efficient schedule. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-1625 minIA ForwardChoosing Your "Word Of The Year" - And Why It's Important To Your SuccessShane and Tonya discuss the "Word of the Year" concept, why it's not cheesy, and how setting the specific intention can create direction for your agency.Get your "Word of the Year" info sheet at IA Forward's Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn pages, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-1223 minIA ForwardThe Independent Insurance Industry: The Good, The Bad, and What We Can Do BetterShane and Tonya discuss the myths, the truths, and what we can do better as independent agents.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media, or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-0925 minIA ForwardLiberty Mutual, Safeco, Trusted Choice, and Aunt Mitzi's Auto ClaimShane and Tonya discuss public misconceptions about being independent and the products we sell and overcoming big brand marketing budgets.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2023-01-0525 minIA ForwardCrisis Management: Staying In Control When The Sky Is FallingShane and Tonya discuss keeping a level head through challenges and being a better agency owner as you come out on the other side.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-2925 minIA ForwardMerry Twixtmas - Making This Week CountThe week between Christmas and New Years is usually a no-man's land. Shane and Tonya discuss the little ways to make this week count, and how to use it kickstart the new year for your agency.Join our IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-2625 minIA ForwardLet's Talk ChristmasShane and Tonya share their favorite Christmas memories (including honeymoon disasters, worst gifts, and must-see holiday movies). Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-2223 minIA ForwardDo You Have Customers or Clients? And What Is The Difference?Shane and Tonya discuss the difference between customers and clients, if the client experience should be customized, and how that affects the long-term success of your agency.Join the IA Forward community of agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-1923 minIA ForwardSetting Goals and Looking Ahead to 2023Shane and Tonya talk about looking ahead to 2023 and setting personal and professional goals to achieve success for your agency. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-1525 minIA ForwardReflecting Back On Your Year In BusinessShane and Tonya discuss specific KPI's for an end of the year review of both your insurance agency and yourself as an agency owner.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-1224 minIA ForwardGetting Everything Done During The Holiday SeasonFrom family commitments to eating too many Christmas goodies, planning for the new year to holiday events, this is the season for trying to cram too much stuff into our days. Shane and Tonya discuss how to enjoy the holidays as an agency owner. Join the IA Forward community of agents at on social media or at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-0825 minIA ForwardIs The Customer Always Right?In the insurance business, we know the customer is not always right. Shane and Tonya talk about how to handle the Karens and Kevins as agency owner, from retail customers to referral partners.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media, or learn more at iafoward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-0525 min
IA ForwardPeople Are Insane And How This Affects The Insurance IndustryShane and Tonya discuss auto insurance rate increases, listening to listen instead of automatically assuming it's a problem to fix, and overthinking how much people think about insurance. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-12-0125 minIA ForwardUsing Holiday Gifts To Get Your Agency Noticed & Lessons Learned from National Lampoon's Christmas VacationShane and Tonya discuss unique holiday gift ideas that make your agency stand out, as well as employee Christmas bonuses and parties.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-2826 minIA ForwardBudgeting and Branding During the Holiday SeasonThe holiday months can cause a strain on your agency's budget due to lower sales and charitable donations. Shane and Tonya discuss how to turn those challenges into growth opportunities to set yourself for success in the new year. Join the IA Forward community of independent agents on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iafoward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-2424 minIA ForwardBlack Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving TuesdayIt's Thanksgiving week, which means lots of holiday marketing opportunities. Shane and Tonya discuss ways for your agency to be involved with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-2125 minIA ForwardLet's Talk Commercial Lines with Bryan ModisetteShane and Tonya discuss tips and tricks for selling commercial insurance with Commercial Lines Specialist, Bryan Modisette. Join the IA Forward community of agents at on social media, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-1724 minIA ForwardLooking at Insurance Through A Military Lens with Jon Marc WhittingtonShane and Tonya talk with military veteran and new agent Jon Marc Whittington on what the insurance business looks like through his lens.Join the IA Forward community of agents on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-1422 minIA ForwardDo Clothes Really Make the Man (or Woman)?Shane and Tonya discuss dressing for success beyond clothes, and talk about the best ways to present your agency with texting, email, and business phone numbers. Are you Team Blue Jeans & Boots or Team Elevated Business Casual? Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-1026 minIA ForwardStart With Why - Then Get to WhatShane and Tonya discuss going beyond "start with why" and getting to "what," long-term visualization, and outsourcing to-do items in both your professional and personal lives.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-0722 minIA ForwardWork Life Balance and the "Day in the Life of a Twitter Employee" VideoShane and Tonya discuss work - life balance expectations for an independent agency owner, and how that compares with the "Day in the Life of a Twitter Employee" video. Spoiler alert: Shane is NOT installing a wine-on-tap machine at the office.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-11-0324 minIA ForwardWhy Small Business Commercial Lines Should Be The Next Step in Growing Your AgencyShane and Tonya discuss the who, what, when, where, and especially the why of adding small business commercial lines to your agency. Join our IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-3125 minIA ForwardAccolades, Awards, Letters Behind Your Name, and the Forbes Business CouncilShane and Tonya discuss if accolades and memberships are important to growing your business and if educational letters behind your name are meaningful to your customers. Join our IA Forward community of entrepreneurial insurance agents on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-2726 minIA ForwardIndependent versus Captive / Exclusive - Who Wins?Shane and Tonya discuss the pros and cons of joining the independent channel versus the exclusive / captive channel. Join the IA Forward group of insurance agents on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-2422 minIA ForwardEarning Professional Respect as a Risk ManagerShane and Tonya discuss why independent insurance agents deserve the same respect as attorneys, physicians, and CPAs, and what we can do to develop that as risk managers.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iafoward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-2024 minIA ForwardYour Agency Is Not a DIY ProjectDo you really need an attorney, a CPA, a banker, and an insurance agent? Shane and Tonya discuss the professionals that you need for long-term success, why DIY is not a great idea, and that yes, you need an insurance agent.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on social media, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-1724 minIA ForwardAdopting a Championship Mindset as an Agency OwnerShane and Tonya discuss what it means to be a "winner" in your agency and why adopting a championship mindset is key to success. Join the IA Forward group of insurance agents on Linkedin, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-1325 minIA ForwardCreating Realistic Expectations, Playing the Comparison Game, and Betting On YourselfShane and Tonya discuss how to set up realistic goals for your agency, and why you should stop playing the comparison game and bet on yourself.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Facebook, Linkedin, and Instagram, and learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-1025 minIA ForwardThe Fear of Failure, What Ifs, and Colt McCoyShane and Tonya discuss "what if's," when starting your agency, why regrets are a waste of energy, and why the fear of failure is so prevalent. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-0624 minIA ForwardBridging the Digital Divide and Choosing the Right Words with Kylie LoweryShane and Tonya are joined by special guest Kylie Lowery to discuss helping your agency bridge the technology / digital divide between generations, as well as the importance of choosing the right words for more precise communication. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-10-0324 minIA ForwardFinding Contentment, Being Driven, and Tom BradyHow do you find contentment when you are driven to be successful? Shane and Tonya discuss how to find contentment when growing your agency, honoring commitments to yourself and others, and the importance of acknowledging the difference between commitment and interest.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-2924 minIA ForwardThoughts When Starting a New Agency (or Getting One Back on Track) with Tara GrahamThinking about starting an agency? Or has your agency maybe gotten a bit "off track?" Shane and Tonya talk with Tara Graham, a 20+ year veteran of the independent insurance industry and Retail Director for Integra Insurance Services.Join our IA Forward community of agents on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-2624 minIA ForwardExpecting Everyday to Be Amazing is UnrealisticShane and Tonya discuss the expectations of owning a business and becoming the Chief Translation Officer for your agency.Join the IA Forward community of agents on Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin, or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-2224 minIA ForwardBusiness Lessons Learned from Fantasy Football with Robby JabbourEver wondered if those hours spent playing fantasy football can help with starting your agency? Shane and Tonya welcome Robby Jabbour as their guest to discuss stress factors, business questions, and choosing the right partner to start your agency.Interested in talking with Robby about owning an independent agency? Email him at robby@integraagent.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-1925 minIA ForwardExcuses, Rate Increases, and Derek JeterAre you struggling with how to best handle rate increases? Shane and Tonya discuss excuses, reasons, and facts, along with inspiration from Derek Jeter.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Linkedin, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-1523 minIA ForwardDedication, FOBO, and the Florida State Football FanWhat if we were as dedicated to building our agencies the right way as we are to our favorite sports teams? Shane and Tonya celebrate the beginning of college football season talking about dedication and how FOBO (the fear of better offers) can distract us from what it takes to be successful.Join the IA Forward community of agents on Linkedin, Instagram, and Facebook, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook...
2022-09-1224 minIA ForwardMarketing Strategy, Imitation, and Do You Respond or React?Shane and Tonya discuss finding your unique marketing strategy, what happens when someone else decides to use your great idea, and the difference between responding and reacting. Join the IA Forward community on Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-0824 minIA ForwardFrustration, Being a Bull Durham Lollygagger, and Enjoying the JourneyShane and Tonya discuss why the frustration in the journey is preparing you for the next steps, and why they would be called "Lollygaggers" in the movie Bull Durham. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Facebook, Linkedin, and Instagram, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-0524 minIA ForwardJust Do It, Never Feeling Ready, and Competence Equals ConfidenceShane and Tonya celebrate their 50th podcast by discussing why we never "feel ready" to take the next step, and why sometimes you should "just do it" anyway. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on Instagram, Linkedin, or Facebook or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-09-0124 minIA ForwardBuilding Trust, Dumb Online Articles, and the Insurance Paid for this Roof SignShane and Tonya discuss why humorous advertising mascots can create a challenge when building trust with potential clients, as well as ridiculous online articles about the industry, and the "insurance paid for this roof" sign. See the sign on the IA Forward social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-2922 minIA ForwardCommunity Involvement, Marketing, and the High School Football ProgramFall is almost here, and with cooler weather comes huge marketing opportunities! Shane and Tonya discuss community involvement, what to do, what not to do, and how to handle "the ask" during the upcoming autumnal season.Follow IA Forward on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-2524 minIA ForwardToo Much Data, Choosing Your KPIs, the No More Smell SignShane and Tonya discuss how having too much data can be counterproductive and why choosing the right KPIs will help you grow as an agency owner and still leave you time to do business. As for the "no more smell sign" that started this conversation about too much data, check it out on the IA Forward social media pages.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-2223 minIA ForwardShane's Daily Routine, Making Time for Your Spouse, and Where the Crawdads SingShane and Tonya discuss Shane's daily routine, specifically making time for your spouse, when is the best time to see clients, and their thoughts on "Where the Crawdads Sing."Join the IA Forward community of agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-1822 minIA ForwardWhy Do Insurance Agencies Succeed?Shane and Tonya discuss building relationships with referral partners, bankers, and potential customers, as well as setting expectations and ignoring the noise.Follow IA Forward on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-1524 minIA ForwardWhy Do Insurance Agencies Fail?We are always looking at success stories, but do you ever wonder why agencies fail? Shane and Tonya discuss finances, lack of focus, office location, spending habits, and more.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-1122 minIA ForwardChoose Your Lens and Change the ConversationIn this hard market, you're talking with clients that you may not have heard from in years. Shane and Tonya discuss how choosing a positive or negative lens gives you an opportunity to change the conversation. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-0824 minIA ForwardStop Spuddling - Business Hacks That Don't WorkEver noticed that you spend more time trying to get things done but your to-do list keeps getting longer? Stop spuddling! Shane and Tonya discuss popular business growth, time-saving, and efficiency hacks that don't work. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-0423 minIA ForwardAgency Digitization, Time Savers, and Using What You're Paying ForShane and Tonya discuss agency digitization tools, their favorite time savers, and using what you're already paying for.Join the IA Forward Community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-08-0126 minIA ForwardMarketing to Millennials and Gen ZWhy is "How to Market to Millennials" one of the most Googled questions? How do you talk value in a world that is so focused on price? Shane and Tonya discuss changing the price conversation, generational marketing, and why you should stop Googling and start talking to people.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-07-2823 minIA ForwardAlways Do The Right Thing, Attorneys, and Industry Changes with Holly HowardShane and Tonya talk with Holly Howard, Vice President of Operations for Integra Insurance Services, about how the industry has changed over the last 20 years, what a new agent needs to focus on, and always doing the right thing.Join the IA Forward movement of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-07-2519 minIA ForwardEmpowering Your Employees, Mentoring, and the Virtual Assistant World with Beaux PigrimWhen it comes to the virtual assistant world within the insurance biz, Beaux Pilgrim is the expert. Shane and Tonya talk with Beaux regarding why his VAs are the best, empowering your employees, why you need a mentor, and quitting is not an option.Discover more about IA Blueprint, Beaux's specialized insurance virtual assistant organization, at iablueprint.com.Join the IA Foward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more...
2022-07-2120 minIA ForwardSimplify (Enough Said)Shane and Tonya discuss why "simplify" is a great mantra in the insurance business, even when all the outside voices are saying diversify and make it complicated.Join the IA Forward movement of insurance agents on your favorite social media platforms, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-07-1823 minIA ForwardAct Like You've Been There Before - Success, Failure, and Staying on an Even KeelShane and Tonya look at the parallels between sports and running an agency when it comes to success, failure, goal setting, and staying on an emotional even keel. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media platforms or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-07-1431 minIA ForwardVacation - The Who, What, When, Where, Why, and HowThink it's impossible to go on vacation as an agency owner? Shane and Tonya discuss the reality of how it is possible to vacation and continue to run a successful agency, as well as the importance of why. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-07-1131 minIA ForwardMotivation, No Man's Land, and The Tipping PointEver wonder what's happening when your business is just not "fun" anymore? Shane and Tonya discuss motivation, mentorship, no man's land, and the tipping point of business growth.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-07-0723 minIA ForwardThe Best Business Advice We've Ever Been GivenShane and Tonya share the best pieces of business advice they have even been given - and how those thoughts have shaped their success. From finances to attitude, productivity to people, the best advice is that which gets repeated. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-3022 minIA ForwardRespect (Adding P&C Products to Your Life & Health Agency, Wealth Management, Tax Prep, or Real Estate Business)Have you ever thought "insurance is insurance" and decided to add Property and Casualty as a side business to create a new profit center? Shane and Tonya share their thoughts on the idea, and ponder why others don't always show respect to the independent insurance industry. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-2723 minIA ForwardEveryone Says They Offer The Best Service - But What Does That Really Mean?If we ask any agent what sets them apart, the answer is always the same - "We offer the best service." Shane and Tonya discuss ideas on serving your clients, being Chief Translation Officer, meeting your clients where they are (figuratively), and finding opportunities to shine.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-2326 minIA ForwardUnderdogs, Guerrilla Marketing, and Being the David in a Goliath WorldWondering if your small agency can successfully compete against the dominant agents in your area? Shane and Tonya talk about finding your way to play the insurance game, how being a new agent gives you an advantage over established agencies, and why being the underdog works in your favor.Join the IA Forward community on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-2024 minIA ForwardThe Stop Doing List, Protecting Your Time, the Power of Saying NoEver have one of those days where you were crazy busy, but didn't feel like you accomplished anything? Shane and Tonya discuss the stop-doing list, time blocking, managing email, and other ways to create time efficiency within your independent agency.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-1625 minIA ForwardCommercial Lines Selling - And Somebody Forgot Shane's SteaksReady to start selling commercial lines? Shane and Tonya discuss commercial lines marketing, sales, prospecting, personnel, client gifts, and more. Oh, and somebody forgot to bring Shane steaks last November. You know who you are. Join the IA Forward community on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at IAForward.com. IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-1326 minIA ForwardBeing an Entrepreneur, Expectations, and Why You Need An Org Chart - Even If It's Only YouDon't you hate it when things don't turn out the way you expect them to? Shane and Tonya talk about expectations, being an entrepreneur, setting your business up for success, and why you need an org chart - even if it's only you in your agency.Join the IA Forward community of independent insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-0925 minIA ForwardDoing Nothing Is An Option - And It Can Be A Good One For Your AgencyHave you ever considered doing nothing as an option when growing your business? Shane and Tonya discuss how the choice of doing nothing in a hard market can actually give you more time to focus on new business and growing your agency. Yes, it sounds crazy - but the logic is sound. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on L...
2022-06-0620 minIA ForwardManaging Choices, Efficiency, and Walmart versus Neiman MarcusEver gotten really excited over the idea of having 100+ carriers to write with? Shane and Tonya discuss managing your choices for maximum profitability and efficiency, and being selective in order to be the best.Join the IA Forward Community on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-06-0220 minIA ForwardFind Your Niche, Have Fun, and Do What You LoveEver wonder why some agency owners seem to be having more fun at work? Shane and Tonya discuss taking what you are passionate about and designing your marketing and networking around that concept to create success and long-term enjoyment in your agency. Join the IA Forward community on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.comIA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-3022 minIA ForwardReferrals, Being Relational vs Transactional, and the College Baseball RPIWant to make sure you are getting the right kind of referrals? Shane and Tonya discuss creating the best narrative to get the right referrals from your customers, being relational versus being transactional with your clients and employees, and why the NCAA's RPI is creating a commitment problem. Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-2622 minIA ForwardBeing a Chief Translation Officer, Networking, and that State Farm Commercial with the FishermanEver wondered how to go from being that insurance salesperson to someone who people actually want to talk with at networking events? Shane and Tonya discuss being your agency's "chief translation officer," authenticity during networking events, and a State Farm commercial flashback that is triggering for most independent insurance agents. Join the IA Forward community on your favorite social media channels, or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-2321 minIA ForwardTechnology, Listening Intentionally, and Taking Your Shoes Off At the AirportShane and Tonya discuss saving time and money by using the technology you have before investing in a new "shiny object" or subscription, intentional listening, and a bizarre incident at the Philadelphia airport at 4:00 am.Learn more about the IA Forward movement for independent insurance agents at iaforward.com or on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-1920 minIA ForwardBuckle Up Buttercup, Hard Markets, and Taking RisksWonder how the insurance world is trending during the current economic challenge? Shane and Tonya are in prediction mode to help you prepare for the upcoming hard market. They discuss why this is the best time to take the risk and start an independent insurance agency, and the advantage of being a disrupter in the industry.Join the IA Forward community on your favorite social media channels or at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn...
2022-05-1619 minIA ForwardStarting Over, the Risk of Losing, and Choosing the Right Game to PlayHave you ever wondered if taking the risk was worth it? Shane and Tonya discuss the agony of defeat, making sure we choose the right game to play, and starting over in business.Join the IA Forward community of insurance agents on your favorite social media platforms or iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-1224 minIA ForwardRules, Best Practices, and High School BaseballEver wonder why business owners don't like rules? Probably because if they did, they would be working for someone else.Join Shane and Tonya as they discuss why independent agents don't like rules, how best practices really can help, and a bizarre situation regarding high school baseball rules in Florida.Join the IA Forward community of independent insurance agents at IA Forward on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA...
2022-05-0917 minIA ForwardEducation versus Experience to be a Successful Independent AgentDo you need a college degree to be a successful independent agent? Shane and Tonya discuss the importance of experience versus education, and which is more valuable in owning an insurance agency.Join the IA Forward community of independent insurance agents at IA Forward on your favorite social media channels or learn more at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-0520 minIA ForwardIf Only My Employees Would Think Like Me... It's Not Going To HappenHave you ever thought, "If only my employees would think like me"? Shane and Tonya discuss why this is not going to happen, and changing your mindset to how that can be a good thing. Really.Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-05-0221 minIA ForwardUnwritten Rules, The Fear of Change, and MLB ScoutsDo you wonder if you need a change of culture or a change of scenery would help you get the excitement back for your business? Shane and Tonya discuss doing business your way, why unwritten rules should sometimes be broken, and how fear and apathy keep us from making the changes that would make us happiest. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or by visiting iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA F...
2022-04-2822 minIA ForwardLet's Talk Commercial LinesAre you thinking of adding commercial lines to your independent agency? Shane and Tonya discuss how to be successful and avoid pitfalls and mistakes as a commercial lines agent. Learn more about IAForward at iaforward.com or on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-04-2525 minIA ForwardYour Agency Needs an Office - because the carriers said so (and other reasons)Are you wondering if you need office space, even in this work-from-home, post-Covid world? The answer is yes. Shane and Tonya discuss the options of brick and mortar, retail, and co-working spaces, as well as creating the right internal work environment for enjoying your work.Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow IA Forward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-04-2122 minIA ForwardActing Important, Staying Humble, and Wooden BatsHow much energy do you exert trying to act important? Shane talks about embracing humble beginnings and being taken down a notch; Tonya chimes in on the Boss Babe trend; and a discussion on the debacle of the University of Tennessee Baseball wooden bat game. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-04-1821 minIA ForwardProfits, Paying Yourself, and the B WordEver wondered how much you should be making? Shane and Tonya discuss profits, bonus money, paying yourself, the pitfalls of living out of your business checking account, and the dreaded b-word (budgeting). If you want to skip this one, then it's probably the one you really should listen to.Learn more about the IA Forward community at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-04-1425 minIA ForwardDecluttering, Julie-izing, and the Cross-Sell Later MythWhat does cleaning out your bedside table have to do with your agency? Shane and Tonya discuss decluttering your book, "Julie-izing" your business from the beginning to make it efficient, and why writing the monoline policy now and upselling later creates chaos. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-04-1123 minIA ForwardHow to Know More Than You Know, Core Values, and the Jayhawks WinHave you ever thought that your biggest challenge is thinking you know more than you know? Probably not, because then you would know. Shane and Tonya talk discuss the possibilities of learning the knowledge without having the experience, the power of mentorship, the importance of chasing core values, and the Jayhawks win over the Tar Heels in the NCAA Men's Championship Game. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at...
2022-04-0722 min
IA ForwardBeing Independent, Shane's Walmart Survey, and the Power to Walk AwayDoes being independent mean the same thing to you as it does to your clients? Shane and Tonya discuss the perception of the big brands versus the independent agent, the future of the choice model, and the power to walk away. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-04-0418 minIA ForwardHumility, Authenticity, Passion, and the Final FourEver wonder how to turn that "no" into a "yes"? Shane and Tonya discuss the importance of humility and passion for success with your independent insurance agency, as well as their picks for the NCAA Men's National Championship. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-3115 minIA ForwardInsurance and the Laws of PhysicsWonder what Insurance and Physics have in common? Shane and Tonya talk about why getting your flywheel rolling is imperative for your independent insurance agency. They also discuss boredom, passion, and choosing the right focus for you. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-2828 minIA ForwardGive A Pig A PancakeIs it possible to train your customers so that price is not an issue? Shane and Tonya discuss creating an amazing customer experience at your agency and why independent insurance agents should never compete with the British lizard - we're not even playing the same game. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-2421 minIA ForwardGrinding, Women in Insurance, and the Challenge For AuthenticityDoes grinding equal success? Does true authenticity increase sales? And what is the future for female independent agency owners? Shane and Tonya discuss why owning an independent insurance agency is the ultimate lifestyle business to create a work-life balance for women and for men. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-2117 minIA ForwardInsurance, Netflix, and Amazon PrimeWonder what Insurance and Netflix have in common? Shane and Tonya discuss why being an independent insurance agent is the ultimate subscription model, how to discuss rate increases with your clients, and a little bit of college basketball. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-1724 minIA ForwardAre You a Rainmaker or a Technician?Shane and Tonya talk about being a rainmaker or a technician, and successful solutions from the playbook for both personality types when starting an insurance agency. Additional insights include creating busyness out of fear, going into business for yourself based on emotional reactions, and making the (imaginary) cash register ring.Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-1424 minIA ForwardAre You Playing The Infinite Game?Are you playing your agency's business game for short-term or long-term success? Shane and Tonya discuss Baseball versus Afghanistan, hiring with a 365 mindset, challenging yourself to have a life, and why it's the best time to own an independent agency. Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-03-1029 minIA ForwardWhy Your Insurance Agency Needs A PlaybookEvery great coach has a playbook. Meet Shane and Tonya as they share why they are passionate about helping insurance agents be successful at playing the infinite game of owning an independent insurance agency.Learn more about IA Forward at iaforward.com or follow iaforward on your favorite social media channels.IA Forward to can help you take your agency from good to great. Learn more at iaforward.com, and follow IA Forward on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
2022-02-1810 min