In this candid and revealing conversation, James interviews the three most senior members of the RiskWell team. This special two-part episode gets into origin stories, and personal anecdotes and goes deep into how RiskWell operates in the marketplace. To learn more about RiskWell, visit https://www.riskwell.com.  Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: Introduction of the Executive team at RiskWell and their roles in the agency Reflections on the growth and evolution of the podcast from its early episodes The challenges and advantages of working remotely and the dynamics it brings to the team Insights into the culture of innovation and willingness to experiment within the agency Discussion on the impact of personal growth on professional development within the company Exploration of the unique management style and team interactions at RiskWell Plans and visions for the future of RiskWell and its continued evolution

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews John Barfield, focusing on the critical aspects of the insurance industry.  Here are the key topics they discussed: Key topics: Importance of Relationships and Trust: Emphasizing the need for agents to build genuine, long-lasting relationships with underwriters and wholesalers to navigate through tough market conditions effectively. Complete Submissions for Underwriting: Highlighting the necessity for agents, especially new ones, to provide thorough and complete information in their submissions, such as exposure bases, supplemental applications, premium targets, and loss histories. Education and Communication: The need for ongoing education of agents about the importance of accurate and complete information in insurance submissions and maintaining transparent communication with underwriters. Choosing Wholesale Partners: Advising agents to focus on building relationships with a select few trusted wholesalers instead of spreading efforts thin across many, to ensure more reliable and efficient service. Action Items and Follow-ups: Educate new agents on the importance of thorough submissions. Encourage agents to build and maintain relationships throughout the year, not only during transaction periods. Follow up with agents who attended the Producers in Paradise conference to strengthen new relationships. Provide contact information for Braishfield for further inquiries into their services and specialties in both admitted and non-admitted solutions. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for insurance agents on the importance of building strong professional relationships, providing complete and accurate submissions, and choosing the right partners to work with in the industry. Connect with: John Barfield David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Braishfield Associates Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

Lies, lies, and more lies. So very often that's all we hear from our prospects. It happens to you and it happens to your competitors. But, there is definitely something you can do to make it happen much less often and--even--use it to win more signed Broker of Record Letters. In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht teaches you about why prospects are lying to you and then provides a few tips (tactics) about how to overcome these roadblocks and get the prospect to finally tell you the truth about what you have to do to win their business. Episode Highlights: Charles discusses why some insurance industry prospects are liars. (2:07) Charles shares a quick story about when he was relatively new in the insurance industry and discovered that the insured was lying to him. (3:18) Charles explains that just because you make an appointment doesn't imply you're meeting with someone who will really give you a chance. (5:48) Charles mentions that he simply cannot be someone's agent unless they are willing to terminate their relationship with their current agent. (8:30) Charles explains that in sales, you get what you ask for and will not receive what you do not ask for, and you must push because the insurers are lying to you. (11:26) Charles believes that as an insurance agent, you are your own biggest hurdle. There are factors blocking you from attaining what you want, and you need to recognize them so you can delegate, remove, or overcome them. (13:05) Charles discusses what happens if insurance agents don't put up rules of engagement. (19:09) Charles explains that since prospects don't understand how insurance works behind the scenes and are trying to figure it out for themselves, they often say things to insurance agents that they believe insurance agents want to hear in hopes the agent will do a better job for them. (20:52) Charles emphasizes the need for insurance agents to continue to push if they do not feel like they have a clear idea of what the insured will do to make their decision on which agent they will do business with. (22:38) Charles discusses one of the most important things he believes insurance agents should do when interviewing prospects. (24:36) Key Quotes: “Insurance agent, you are your own biggest hurdle. There are things that are stopping you from getting what you want. You need to be able to figure those out, identify them, label them if need be so that you can either delegate out the issue to somebody else, remove it altogether, or figure out a way in which to overcome it.” - Charles Specht “What I'm really trying to get to at the core of this podcast episode is that your prospects, because they don't understand how insurance works behind the scenes, they're trying to figure it out themselves. And so, many times they are saying things to you that they think you want to hear that's going to cause you to do a better job for them.” - Charles Specht “One of the main things that I think you need to do when you are asking questions of your prospect is, one, you need to find out how many years they've been with their current agent. Anything that is three years or longer is a red flag to me.” - Charles Specht Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Charles Specht Permission Network Insurance Agency, Inc.

How are agencies setting themselves apart from a growth perspective? Andy Mathisen, Regional Sales Director at FirstChoice, a MarshBerry Company, joins the show to discuss how insurance agencies are finding lead sources, investing back in their firms, tapping outside resources and more to beat their growth goals. Andy and Elliot dive into sales training and not only finding good talent, but training them to succeed. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com FirstChoice, a MarshBerry Company: https://www.marshberry.com/solutions/aggregation/about-firstchoice LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 Ryan Brott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brott-cepa%C2%AE-77a278a Andy Mathisen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-mathisen This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT’S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can’t. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Patrick Cooney, Co-Founder of Powerbroker AI. Patrick discusses how Powerbroker AI’s latest AI innovations are transforming the insurance industry, and empowers insurance agents and brokers by enhancing their efficiency and accuracy. Key Topics: Introduction of Patrick Cooney and Powerbroker AI Discussion on the impact of AI on insurance Patrick’s journey from insurance to tech innovator Key features and benefits of Powerbroker AI Future prospects of AI in the insurance industry Connect with: Patrick Cooney LinkedIn David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Powerbroker AI Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ is joined by a long-time friend of the show, Couples Counselor Dr. Matt Morris, and first-time guest Michael Baudin. Listen in as they discuss what work-life balance is and, maybe more importantly, what it is not. This recording extends from a casual conversation among friends that originated at a Pelicans NBA basketball game. Erik felt compelled to share this compelling dialogue with Stuff About Money listeners.  Drawing from his expertise as a family therapist, Dr. Matt offers valuable insights, while Michael contributes his perspectives as a successful entrepreneur. Together, they conclude the discussion by offering practical strategies to attain fulfillment in one's professional and personal life. They address pressing questions such as: Is work-life balance merely a myth? How can entrepreneurs effectively juggle the demands of business, family, and self-care while maintaining their well-being? And what sacrifices are acceptable in the pursuit of business growth? A standout moment in the episode is when Dr. Matt underscores the significance of creating margin in one's life to achieve a sense of “balance”. Episode Highlights: Dr. Matt explains why work-life balance is important due to the limited time we have on earth. (6:27) Michael discusses work-life balance using the analogy of dividing a dollar into life's responsibilities: work, family, and self. (13:54) Michael shares experiences of his business's growing pains, hiring employees, and increasing responsibilities that occasionally made him less present at home. (21:33) Dr. Matt discusses the distinct challenges entrepreneurs face compared to employees, particularly in balancing time and resource allocation between business and family. (29:00) Michael acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for managing family dynamics and business commitments. (34:58) Erik emphasizes the importance of maintaining a "margin" in life, especially for entrepreneurs managing multiple demands. (41:00) Michael values maintaining a work-life balance, prioritizing attendance at his children’s events and allowing his employees the same flexibility. (59:38) Key Quotes: “You get a lot of pride out of building your business, it's an enjoyment for you to build your business.” - Dr. Matt Morris “Leave enough margin in your life and in your day that you can respond to needs as they pop up.” - Dr. Matt Morris “You have to be fluid, you have to just be able to recognize what's happening and what's coming and be able to react, because that's all part of being a business owner and entrepreneur, whatever you want to call yourself. ” - Michael Baudin Resources Mentioned: Dr. Matt Morris Michael Baudin  Matt Morris & Associates Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Are you happy with your current status quo or are you satisfied with mediocrity? No doubt, you're not. If not, are you doing anything significant to level-up your revenues, or write larger accounts, or close more new business? I hope you are! In this episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will help you to see what leveling-up would look like for you and he'll give you some key takeaways to figure out and then implement in order to finally begin closing more deals and making the money you know you're capable of earning.  Key Topics: Importance of moving beyond comfort zones to achieve substantial growth Strategies for targeting and securing larger accounts The role of mindset in surpassing traditional business limits Practical tips on choosing insurance carriers and maximizing commissions Evaluating and adjusting business strategies to align with growth objectives Real-life success stories of agents transforming their business scale Prospects for agents willing to adopt aggressive growth strategies Reach out to  Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode, James talks with Beaux Pilgrim, Owner of Reed Insurance. To learn more about Reed Insurance, visit https://www.reedinsla.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: Beaux Pilgrim's introduction to the insurance industry through family connections The evolution of Beaux's career from commercial lines to agency owner Navigating the dynamics of working with family in the business Strategies for adapting and growing an insurance agency in a rural setting The significance of building relationships with municipal clients and the community Launching a remote staffing company to address industry-wide challenges in talent acquisition Insights into maintaining work-life balance while managing multiple ventures

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers sits down with Aaron Gordon, Vice President of Gordon Companies Insurance Services, and host of Keep Hustling Podcast. Aaron discusses evolving the hustle from a simple hashtag to a vibrant brand and podcast, and the cultural impact and personal strategies that define success.  Key Topics: Aaron shares the evolution of the "Keep Hustling" brand and podcast Discussion on the personal definition of hustle and its varied interpretations The importance of community support in maintaining and promoting the hustle Ways to integrate hustle into everyday life without leading to burnout The role of authenticity and consistent effort in achieving success Aaron's practical examples of applying hustle in business and personal areas Future plans for expanding the influence of the Keep Hustling community Connect with: Aaron Gordon David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Gordon Companies Insurance Services Keep Hustling Podcast Keep Hustling Merch Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

None of the insurance carriers pay you a commission for coming in 2nd place. 1st Place is King. 2nd Place is for losers. Literally, not figuratively. The incumbent wants you to lose. The other competing agents want you to lose. Most of the time even your prospect wants you to lose. Therefore ... SALES IS WAR!  In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht explains how to prepare a New Business Prospecting Strategy for 2023 that will help you to dominate and write up to 50% more commission in the year than you would have otherwise. *** And, he talks about the "DOMINATE 2023 WEBINAR" he's conducting on 12/16/22.  Episode Highlights: Charles explains that none of your insurance carriers pay commission for second place, only the incumbent agent gets paid. Everyone else loses because sales is war. (1:53) Charles mentions that insurance agency owners can't have producers who don't produce. (3:42) Charles believes that it is very difficult to achieve any goals as an agency owner if you do not have a plan or a strategy. (9:00) Charles mentions that if you want to dominate in 2023, you need to start planning your strategy now. (13:10) Charles mentions that the goal of his "DOMINATE 2023 WEBINAR” is to teach people how to create a step-by-step process that will help them achieve up to 50% more commission written or earned rather than received in 2023. (15:05) Charles discusses that in the "DOMINATE 2023 WEBINAR”, he will also teach how to put together the simplest differentiator service that you can offer to your prospects in return for their business. (19:11) Charles explains how to sign up for the "DOMINATE 2023 WEBINAR”, which will take place on December 16th at 1:30 p.m. CST. (21:39) Key Quotes: “None of your insurance carriers pay commission for second place. Only number one gets money, only number one gets to sit on the throne as an incumbent agent. Everybody else is a loser. Sales is war. And it's no different when it comes to insurance sales.” - Charles Specht  “The whole strategy of selling insurance and quoting business, the way the industry is set up, you're expected to lose if you are an agent who is just competing, based upon how everything has always been done.” - Charles Specht  “If you want to dominate 2023, you really have to get after it here in 2022. And by getting after, I mean, we start putting together a plan of attack for 2023. This is important because I know that those who have it tend to be successful, and those who don't are not successful.” - Charles Specht  Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Charles Specht Permission Network Insurance Agency, Inc.

Talent acquisition is a game-changer for your company. But adding solid team members can be useless without proper training on your process, your ideology, or your sales model. Brett Young, CEO of Erb and Young, joins the show to talk through talent acquisition via networking, establishing culture within your team, and training new producers to adapt to your firm's target market. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/ Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com/ Erb and Young: https://www.erbandyounginsurance.com/ LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515/ Ryan Brott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brott-cepa%C2%AE-77a278a/ Brett Young: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettins/ This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT’S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can’t. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers is joined by Scott Angell, Senior Vice President of LeO. David and Scott explore the platform's capabilities, its integration with various agency management systems, and the significant time savings and efficiency it brings to the prospecting process. Key Topics: Introduction to LeO and its impact on insurance prospecting Enhancements and developments within LeO's platform Integrations with agency management systems for streamlined processes The future roadmap and upcoming features of LeO Strategies for building effective lead lists using LeO Importance of mobile numbers in modern prospecting The role of technology in saving time and increasing efficiency for producers Connect with: Scott Angell LinkedIn David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: LeO Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass discusses the impacts of generational shifts and technological advancements on the insurance industry. Key Topics: Reflection on podcast history and listener loyalty since 2013 The impact of personal life events on professional paths Discussion on generational differences in career expectations and values Insights into agency growth and personal anecdotes from industry colleagues Introduction of the new podcast series, "The Front Cover" Overview of upcoming industry events and the importance of specific tech for independent agents Personal updates and future plans in both professional and personal realms Reach out to: Jason Cass Visit Website: Agency Intelligence Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode, James talks with Ryan Englund, Founder of Englund Insurance Group. To learn more about Englund Insurance, visit https://www.englundins.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: Ryan Englund's early career and the pivotal decision to enter the insurance industry The evolution of Ryan's career from captive to independent agent Challenges and triumphs of transitioning in the insurance industry The impact of technology and personal relationships on business growth Ryan's advice for insurance professionals considering a similar transition The importance of family support and team collaboration in achieving business success Ryan's vision for the future of his agency and the insurance industry

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers discusses the transformative role of AI in the insurance industry. He delves into how AI-driven tools can automate and enhance client interactions, streamline content creation, and innovate prospecting methods. Key Topics: Introduction to AI video creation tool "Synthesia" Custom avatars and voice cloning for personalization AI-generated videos for education and marketing AI strategies for workers' compensation prospecting Targeted outreach for companies with stop-work orders Development of a learning management system for content creation Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

There has been a shift in business owners. Generationally, today's owners are different: expectations, buying habits, communication preferences, pace of production, and plenty more. Mick Hunt, CEO at Premier Strategy Box, joins the show today and challenges you as an insurance agency to put yourself in the shoes of your audience. How do you need to shift your firm today to better fit with the modern buyer? How can you ask the right questions to understand that audience? Hear how Mick and his team have created the playbook around building these relationships. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Premier Strategy Box: https://www.mystrategybox.com/ LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 Ryan Brott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brott-cepa%C2%AE-77a278a Mick Hunt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT’S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can’t. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers sits down with Jess Dantice, CEO & Founder of Zenjuries. Jess discusses how we can change the way we handle Worker's Comp, and how Zenjuries is making a big difference in managing claims. Key Topics: The continuous delivery of value in Worker's Comp discussions Insights into Zenjuries, a software for handling Worker's Comp claims The evolving landscape of Worker's Comp and strategies for agencies The introduction of employee-centric features in Zenjuries A detailed discussion on the importance of proactive claim management Exclusive reveal of new features within Zenjuries Connect with: Jess Dantice David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Zenjuries Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Xavier Angel, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), and Certified in Long-Term Care (CLTC), sits down with CPA Keith Raymond to discuss common questions from business owner clients about LLCs and S-Corporations. Keith Raymond simplifies the key differences and misconceptions about LLCs and S-Corporations, providing valuable insights into how business owners should navigate tax considerations. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, understanding the tax implications of being taxed as an LLC versus an S-Corp is essential. With the complexities of tax codes, having a knowledgeable CPA like Keith Raymond as a guide is invaluable for business owners. Tune in to this episode to gain clarity on LLCs, S-Corporations, and make informed decisions for your business's financial future. Episode Highlights: Keith discusses his career beginning in accounting with Ernst and Young in New Orleans, facing early challenges due to Hurricane Katrina. (1:53) Keith explains the distinction between an S Corp (tax status) and an LLC (legal structure), highlighting misconceptions about tax implications. (7:57) Keith emphasizes the protective benefits of an LLC, which safeguards an owner's personal assets from business liabilities, such as lawsuits or bankruptcy. (15:25) Keith discusses S Corp benefits, including tax savings on earnings above a reasonable salary with certain limitations. (18:19) Keith shares the key differences in business structures: sole proprietorship for simplicity, partnerships for flexible profit allocation, and S Corps for equal distribution among owners. (22:21) Keith discusses the importance of considering both direct and indirect expenses when operating or planning to start a business. (28:04) Keith mentions that it is important to understand deductible expenses, including recent changes to meals and entertainment rules, and encourages consulting professionals to ensure correct tax deductions. (29:47) Key Quotes: “The whole purpose of the LLC, the Limited Liability Company, is to protect the assets that are in the business, to the business.” - Keith Raymond, CPA “The benefits of an S corp, for the most part, comes down to a popular strategy that is used where earnings within an S Corp are generally not subject to self-employment taxes.” - Keith Raymond, CPA Just make sure you're capturing all of your business activity. Because, if you miss some expenses, that's tax dollars, that could be in your pocket that you're ultimately could be paying into government, that you just don't want to miss out on.” - Keith Raymond, CPA Resources Mentioned: Keith Raymond, CPA Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode, James talks with Nathan Hirsch, Co-Founder of TrioSEO. To learn more about TrioSEO, visit https://trioseo.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@jamesjenkins.com with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: What drove Nathan to become an entrepreneur and his early efforts in dropshipping on Amazon Startup and sale of FreeUp, a freelancing platform, and virtual assistant recruiting and management lessons Virtual assistants in Nathan's firms, stressing Filipino workers' quality and influence Starting Outsource School to educate entrepreneurs their hiring methodology Launching new businesses after FreeUp sale, like TrioSEO and an e-commerce accounting service

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers discusses insightful strategies on leveraging Artificial Intelligence to enhance content creation, risk management, and client engagement in the insurance industry.  Key Topics: The indispensable role of transcription software in content creation Launching "Carpool Closer" for daily insurance insights Utilizing AI for transforming recorded content into various formats Strategies for content marketing and enhancing client engagement Developing comprehensive producer game plans with AI assistance Implementing AI-driven solutions for fleet safety and risk management The significance of creating sticky accounts through AI-enabled educational campaigns Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes