Insurance Town

In this week episode, Heath Shearon and Casey Nelson discuss the importance of standardizing processes in agencies, the impact of AI on business, and the potential societal reset from reducing screen time. They explore the challenges of implementing consistent procedures, the role of AI in modern companies, and the cultural shift towards more face-to-face interactions. The conversation also touches on the hypothetical scenario of shutting down the internet for six months and its potential effects on society. Additionally, they delve into personal anecdotes, the significance of setting goals, and the evolving landscape of the insurance industry.TakeawaysStandardizing processes is crucial for agency efficiency.AI is transforming business operations significantly.Reducing screen time could lead to a societal reset.Consistent procedures help in minimizing wasteful practices.Face-to-face interactions are becoming more valued.The internet shutdown could have profound societal effects.Agencies should focus on their most profitable clients.Building processes should involve employee input.AI tools can be both time-saving and time-consuming.Cultural shifts are moving towards more personal interactions.Setting personal goals can drive professional growth.Understanding industry trends is key to staying competitive.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Technical Issues00:01:00 Standardizing Processes in Agencies00:01:55 AI's Impact on Business00:15:55 Cultural Shifts and Screen Time00:20:19 Hypothetical Internet Shutdown00:25:00 Personal Goals and Anecdotes00:30:00 Insurance Industry TrendsSponsors:Smart ChoiceCanopy ConnectMAV

This week in Insurance Town I get to catch up with my old friend, and former colleague, Therese Potter of Envela. We have a fun conversation we get to catch up on what she has been up to all the hats she currently wears, from teaching Tai Chi to selling Insurance and everything in between, and she is able to do all that, because of the culture and technology over at Envela. Check it out, and let me know what ya think...Sponsors:Smart Choice-Go to Smartchoiceagents.com Canopy Connect- Usecanopy.com/heathMAV- Hiremav.comThank you for being a wonderful and loyal citizen of Insurance Town! I love you all! from the bottom of my heart I truly do, and I appreciate your support all these years!! 

In this episode of the Insurance Town Podcast, I sit down with Clint Houke for a wide ranging, high trust conversation to kick off the new year the right way. This is one of those talks that feels like two industry vets standing at the whiteboard, talking honestly about what is working, what is changing, and where the real opportunities are.Clint and I dig into the trends he is seeing across the insurance landscape, especially around MGAs and why they continue to play such a critical role in today’s market. We talk about speed, specialization, and why MGAs are not just filling gaps, but actively shaping the future of distribution.From there,  how agencies, MGAs, and carriers can think about AI as a tool to enhance relationships, not replace them. The conversation then turns to Clint’s newest chapter and his work with FAIR. We talk about what FAIR is building, why it matters, and how it is creating real opportunity in the insurance space. This is not just another product. It is a business model that opens up meaningful new revenue streams while staying aligned with transparency and customer experience.What stood out most in this conversation is Clint’s perspective on timing. The industry is changing fast, but the fundamentals still matter. Relationships. Trust. Doing right by the client. FAIR feels like one of those companies that understands both sides of that equation.If you are an agency owner, producer, MGA leader, or anyone looking to add smart, sustainable growth to your business, this episode is worth your time.Pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and join us in Insurance Town for a conversation about trends, technology, and finding opportunity in a changing market.Welcome back to town.Sponsors:Smart Choice- the Fastest growing agency Network hands downMAV- Ditch the Call center and Hire Mav the AI solution to engaging your clients Canopy Connect - The One Click Solution to getting dec pages you need to quote your clients. 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Thank you so much for yet another amazing year in Insurance Town!! This weeks episode is a little different, No Guest. This week i am releasing one of my keynote presentations from a conference I spoke at this year, IIANC, thank you to my friend AUBE KNIGHT and his amazing staff in North Carolina for hosting me and helping me to learn and grow in a big way!! THAT CONFERENCE HAD a major impact on my life personally and Professionally!! This is my keynote, OUT OF SERVICE, I hope you enjoy! SponsorsSmart ChoiceCanopy Connect MAV

In this episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor sits down with Brian Ahearn to unpack the difference between social media influence and true leadership influence, while also sharing a meaningful conversation around faith, family, and the responsibility that comes with leading well. Brian reflects on how becoming a grandfather has reshaped how he thinks about legacy, humility, and the kind of influence that truly matters, both at home and in leadership.The conversation also dives into Brian’s new book, Influenced From Above, a business parable that blends leadership principles with faith driven purpose. Together, Brian and the Mayor discuss what it means to be influenced from above in their own lives, leading with empathy, serving others, and aligning values with action. The takeaway is clear: real influence is not about getting people to say yes, but about building trust, relationships, and a legacy that lasts.Key TakeawaysWhy social media influence is not the same as true leadershipHow faith and family shape the way leaders influence othersLessons from Influenced From Above on humility and serviceWhy empathy and trust are the foundation of lasting leadershipSponsorsSmart Choice – The fastest growing agency network hand down, no fees, higher commissions, lower premium thredhholdCanopy Connect – A one click solution to getting dec pages to quote your prospect and now they have intake platofrmMAV – Ditch the call center and hire MAV, the AI powered text messaging agent to qualify, quote& connect your prospects to your producers

In this episode of Insurance Town, host Heath Shearon welcomes Van Carlson to discuss the evolution of risk management and the importance of self-insuring for businesses. They explore the 831B tax code, its history, and its application in modern business risk management. Van shares insights from his career in the insurance industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in self-insuring and the role of traditional insurance. The conversation also touches on the impact of economic downturns and the need for innovative risk management solutions.TakeawaysVan Carlson emphasizes the importance of self-insuring for businesses.The 831B tax code offers a way to manage business risks effectively.Traditional insurance may not cover all business risks.Economic downturns highlight the need for innovative risk management.Van Carlson shares his journey in the insurance industry.Self-insuring can provide financial stability for businesses.The conversation explores the history and application of the 831B tax code.Van Carlson discusses the challenges of transitioning from traditional insurance.Heath Shearon highlights the role of education in risk management.The episode provides insights into modern business risk management strategies.Sound bites"Self-insuring is the future of business risk management.""The 831B tax code is a game changer.""Traditional insurance doesn't cover all risks.""Economic downturns demand innovative solutions.""Education is key in managing business risks.""Self-insuring provides financial stability.""The 831B code offers unique advantages.""Transitioning from traditional insurance is challenging.""Risk management requires continuous learning.""Modern businesses need modern risk solutions."Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship00:00:00 Van Carlson's Background00:00:00 The 831B Tax Code Explained00:00:00 Challenges in Traditional Insurance00:00:01 Innovative Risk Management Solutions00:00:01 The Future of Business Risk ManagementSponsors:Smart Choice Canopy Connect MAV

In this weeks episode I sit down with Dylan Dimarchi of Eventual to talk about A product that is super cool 

In this engaging conversation, Heath Shearon and Alex Rodov explore the vibrant culture of Toronto, the evolution of technology and quality assurance, and the critical role of testing in the insurance industry. Alex shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the tech space, emphasizing the importance of methodology and the pressures faced in quality assurance. They discuss the challenges of trusting technology, the significance of consumer education, and the future of QA technology, including Alex's new book on testing.TakeawaysGrowing up in Toronto inspired Alex's passion for technology.Quality assurance has evolved significantly over the years.Pressure in QA is a constant, especially in critical industries.Methodology is essential for effective software testing.Consumer education is vital for understanding technology's reliability.The insurance industry heavily relies on quality assurance processes.Alex's book aims to educate consumers about testing.Investing in QA technology is crucial for future advancements.Chapters00:00 Exploring Toronto: A Cultural Hub06:03 The Evolution of Quality Assurance in Tech13:48 The Importance of Methodology in QA22:02 The Role of QA in the Insurance Industry30:12 Investing in the Future of QA TechnologySponsors:Smart Choice- the fastest growing agency network hands down Canopy Connect- your 1 click solution for all things dec pages, intake platforms etc MAV- the AI-powered insurance expert that engages unlimited leads with text messaging 

in this weeks episode I sat down with my good friend Poppy Danker and have a blast talking about this small down agency and how she has just exploded in growth using social media. Yes you heard that right. Its wild to see!! Ive been watching this agency since the beginning from 500 followers to now over 25k followers and viral videos and the whole thing. its so fun. You just gotta hear this one ...sponsored by :Smart Choice Canopy Connect MAV

This week in Insurance Town I sat down with my friend Evan Smith of Mav. We had an incredible conversation about growing your sales with leads and building an inside sales team . We discussed the importance of recognizing that you have to have a vision and a plan before working with leads and not try to scale too quickly We discussed the idea of there is no “bad lead” and what that means. We discover ways to write any lead . The numbers game that is leads and why MAV is THE go to for scaling and growing you business with online leads. Check this one out and hear his three pillars of working with leads successfully. And so much more Sponsors:Smart Choice® the fastest growing agency network hands down and now with 11,000 agencies across the country Canopy Connect -THE one click solution to getting the dec pages you need to quote your prospects and get loss runs and driver lists , and vehicle lists and , and and… check it outActivate to view larger image,

 In this episode of the Insurance Town Podcast, Heath Shearon hosts Christopher Frankland to discuss the intersection of technology and insurance, focusing on AI's impact on the industry. They explore the concept of the 'bionic agent,' the role of AI in transforming insurance processes, and the future of human interaction in a tech-driven world. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, the importance of adapting to technological changes, and the potential for AI to enhance customer experiences.Takeaways:AI is transforming the insurance industry by automating processes and enhancing customer experiences.The concept of the 'bionic agent' combines human expertise with AI technology.Adapting to technological changes is crucial for staying relevant in the industry.AI is no longer just a buzzword; it's a fundamental shift in how we work.The insurance industry is fragmented, with varying levels of AI adoption.Human interaction remains essential, even as automation increases.AI can help solve real problems and tackle industry challenges.The future of insurance involves a blend of technology and human touch.AI's role in insurance is evolving, with potential for real-time risk assessment.Education and upskilling are vital for embracing AI in the industry.Sound Bites:AI is transforming insurance.The bionic agent is the future.Adapt to tech changes or fall behind.AI is a fundamental shift.Human interaction is still key.AI solves real industry problems.The future blends tech and human touch.Real-time risk assessment is coming.Education is key for AI adoption.AI is beyond just a buzzword.Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:00:00 AI's Impact on Insurance00:00:01 The Bionic Agent Concept00:00:02 Adapting to Technological Changes00:00:03 Future of Human Interaction in InsuranceSponsors:Smart Choice Agents Program- the fastest growing agency network hands down. Canopy Connect: Your one click solution for getting everything you need to quote your prospects 

This is an episode recorded at the PIA VADC conference in Virginia Beach with my man Byron Roberts.  It is a fast, on-the-ground conversation about how Openly built for independent agents, why speed still matters, and how data is shifting from rearview mirror to windshield. Quick recapOpenly’s origin story is agent-first. Founders Ty Harris and Matt Duffy asked agents what they actually needed, then shipped a three-question quote experience built to find “diamonds in the rough,” not write everything in sight. The company doubled down on listening loops like ACE, its Agency Council of Excellence, to sanity-check product decisions, fix friction fast, and keep writing business during a stubborn hard market. They are rolling into PL Rating in key states to cut keystrokes, and they see the next frontier as forward-looking data that helps carriers price for tomorrow’s weather, not yesterday’s. Key takeawaysBuilt by and for independent agents, not DTC. Choice and counsel are the strategy. Three inputs to quote, then verify details to bind accurately and quickly. Think seconds, not hours. ACE council gives Openly real-time agent feedback and a promise to report back on changes. Smart underwriting beats growth at any cost. Openly tightens or tweaks instead of pulling out. PL Rating integrations are in motion to reduce double entry and speed comparisons. Data is shifting from historical to predictive. Actuaries need “crystal balls,” not just rearview mirrors. Notable quotes“Tell me I can’t, I’ll show you I will.” Byron on persistence. “Three questions, name, date of birth, and address. We can get it.” On the quoting thesis. “We’re staying open for these agencies. We don’t tighten everything down or pull out.” On disciplined appetite. “We used to look at historical data. Now we need crystal balls.” On forward-looking pricing. Sponsor Smart Choice- The fastest growing insurance network, with 10,000 agencies, 11 billion in written premium written its incredibleCanopy Connect- your 1 click solution to getting the deck pages you need to quote your prospects. 

In this weeks episode, the mayor sits down with his good friend Tinsley English to discuss her latest book titled Grit, Growth & Gumption. But this episode is way beyond that we discuss being a leader in this service industry. We discuss the challenges, the customer service, reps face, the challenges that managers face.We also discuss accepting God’s calling in your life no matter how difficult that might be, or scary that might be. This episode is a really really good one. I couldn’t do this show without my amazing sponsors Smart Choice – the fastest growing agency network hands-down. With over 10,000 agencies across the country, trusting them and over 11 billion written premiumCanopy connect – you’re one click solution to getting the deck pages you need to quote your prospects

In this episode, the Mayor sits down with industry veteran Jeff Kleid  a 30-year insurance innovator, MGA, and carrier leader  to talk about the business of hard-to-place risks, the truth about captives, and how brokers can turn complex accounts into profitable opportunities.From selling insurance on the internet in the ‘90s to building niche programs for cannabis, film, and trucking, Jeff shares real-world lessons about taking chances, trusting data, and transforming the way independent agents think about risk.In this episode, we discuss:The evolution from retail broker to MGA and carrierWhy most agents misunderstand captives (and how to use them right)Building programs for high-risk industries like towing and hempHow to niche down without boxing yourself inThe role of AI in underwriting and program innovationKey Takeaways:Don’t fear the hard-to-place — that’s where opportunity lives.Captives aren’t restrictive; they empower growth and control.Niche success is built on relationships and risk awareness.AI is a tool, not a replacement — human insight still wins the day.Connect with Jeff Kleid:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeffkleidEmail: jdkleid@eliterisk.comWebsite: eliterisk.comSpecial Thanks to Our Sponsors: 🧡 Smart Choice – The fastest-growing agency network helping independent agents write more business and earn more income. 🔗 Canopy Connect – The easiest way to collect your client’s insurance information in seconds.

In this weeks episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor welcomes good buddy Patrick McBride to the show. Patrick, a seasoned insurance professional, shares his journey, experiences, and insights on the industry's evolving landscape.Key Highlights:The Last Few Years in the Industry: Patrick reflects on how the last couple of years have been "wicked" due to the rapid changes in technology and the industry's shift towards innovation. He provides perspective on how to stay ahead amidst these changes.Staying Connected in a Changing World: The conversation shifts to the importance of maintaining relationships in the insurance world, especially in a post-pandemic landscape. Patrick talks about his strategies for staying connected with colleagues and clients while continuing to adapt to the evolving industry.Customer Service and Technology: The conversation digs deep into how the evolution of technology has transformed customer service in the insurance world. Patrick emphasizes the need for agencies to use tech to enhance the client experience—whether it's through automation or more personalized service. They discuss tools like AI chatbots, data analytics, and client portals, which not only make processes faster but allow for a more tailored approach. As Patrick points out: "The best tech makes great service feel effortless."Patrick shares a few stories where tech simplified otherwise complex processes for clients, noting how a quick turnaround and personalized communication helped retain customers. The duo also touches on the challenge of finding a balance between automation and the human touch. "At the end of the day," says Patrick, "clients still want to know there’s a real person behind the scenes who cares about them."Rapid Fire Questions Segment: In a fun and fast-paced part of the episode, Heath puts Patrick in the hot seat with rapid-fire questions. Get ready for some hilarious and insightful moments as Patrick reveals:Favorite tech tool for improving customer service.Worst business advice he ever received.Favorite networking event (besides Indy Tech, of course!).Go-to grilling recipe—yes, there’s a little cooking talk!And much more!Customer Service Tech Takeaways for Insurance Pros:Speed & Efficiency with Tech: Use technology to streamline repetitive tasks like policy changes, claims processing, and FAQs to free up more time for personalized client interactions.Human Touch: While automation is a game-changer, it’s crucial to maintain a human connection for the moments that matter. Clients value tech for convenience but trust is built through real relationships.Data-Driven Personalization: Tools that provide data insights can help agents understand client preferences and needs, making their outreach and service more meaningful.Don’t Miss:Laugh-out-loud moments from the rapid-fire segment.Patrick’s take on the biggest customer service pitfalls and how to avoid them in today’s tech-driven world.Takeaways for Insurance Professionals:Importance of attending industry events like Indy Tech to network and stay updated on new trends.How to stay agile and adaptive to change in a "wicked" industry.Strategies for staying connected with your professional network, even when you can't always meet in person.Don't Miss:Hilarious stories from the Indy Tech event that will keep you laughing.Patrick’s take on how insurance professionals can thrive in today's rapidly evolving environment.Subscribe & Review:Don’t forget to subscribe to Insurance Town on your fa

In this episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor, Heath Shearon welcomes Jamie Peers  really just to catch up and have a chat, but this lead to hitting the record button, and discussing the evolving landscape of the insurance industry, focusing on data integration, AI, and the challenges of maintaining clean data. Jamie shares insights from his journey through startups and consulting, emphasizing the importance of introspection and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in solving business problems and the significance of building strong teams.Introspection is key to personal and professional growth.Data integration is more complex than it seems.AI should solve business problems, not just be a buzzword.Clean data is crucial for effective business operations.Building strong teams is essential for success.The insurance industry faces unique data challenges.Consulting offers diverse experiences but lacks depth.Startups require adaptability and resilience.Effective communication is vital in tech and insurance.Pilot programs can help improve data quality.Chapters00:00:02 Introduction and Jamie's Background00:00:36 Exploring Africa and Personal Growth00:03:01 Journey Through Startups00:05:26 Introspection and Personal Development00:08:20 Leadership and Team Building00:14:17 Data Integration Challenges00:18:41 AI in Business00:26:25 Consulting and Current Projects00:30:51 Future Plans and Team BuildingSponsors:Smart Choice Agents - The Fastest growing agency network hands downCanopy Connect- The one click solution to getting the information you need to quote your prospects 

In this weeks episode, the Mayor and Toby discuss the intersection of technology and insurance, focusing on the challenges and opportunities within the industry. They explore the role of AI in transforming insurance processes, the importance of understanding client needs, and the potential for technology to attract new talent to the field. Toby shares insights from his journey in the insurance and tech sectors, highlighting the innovative solutions his company, OneFort, is developing to streamline operations and enhance client relationships.TakeawaysAI is transforming the insurance industry by automating processes.Understanding client needs is crucial for effective insurance solutions.Technology can attract new talent to the insurance field.OneFort focuses on independent insurance agents to maximize impact.Manual processes in insurance are time-consuming and need automation.Cross-selling and upselling are key strategies for insurance growth.AI can help identify underinsured clients and recommend solutions.The insurance industry faces a talent shortage that technology can address.OneFort integrates with existing tools to streamline insurance workflows.Toby emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation in tech solutions.Chapters00:00:02 Introduction and Greetings00:00:05 Discussing Upcoming Events00:00:20 The Role of Magic in Trade Shows00:03:23 Toby's Journey in Insurance and Tech00:07:55 Miscommunication in Insurance and Tech00:16:21  Focus on AI for producers, and CSR's 00:29:01  AI Solutions for Insurance00:32:04 Cross-Selling and Upselling with AI00:39:32 Future Plans and Industry GrowthSponsors:Smart Choice The Fastest growing agency network in country! Hands DownCanopy Connect - Your 1 click solution to getting the dec pages you need to quote your prospects

This one is a Mayor Solo! Mail bag episode! STICK AROUND and hang out with me. If you dont want to hear a solo episode , I get it , Go check out another one of your favorite shows, no hurt feelings here. But if you wanna hang out with me, I look forward to the next 39 minutes with you itll be fun Sponsors:Smart ChoiceCanopy Connect 

In this week's episode the Mayor Heath Shearon hosts another town hall meeting. This week we talk about the headaches of intake forms and gathering of prospect information, And the back and forth of gathering pertinent information for underwriters. All of these things can end up being a roadblock. All of these things can sometimes caused bottlenecks in your agency. That is where Canopy Connect comes into play with their intake platform. They're one click solution that I've been talking about for 5 years now.  Thanks to Ray Huang for making the visit to Insurance Town and Showing us behind the scenes.  If you did miss this episode live, this is your chance to check it out. If you would like to learn more about Canopy Connect,  please go to usecanopy.com\ health and take advantage of the discount, book a demo, check it out. If you want to watch this episode go to our Youtube channel and check it out.  Sponsors Smart Choice- The fastest growing agency network hands down. 10,000 agencies nationwide trust them with over 11 BILLION  in written premium. Canopy Connect- Your One Click Solution to getting dec pages you need to quote your prospects. 

In this weeks episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor Heath Shearon, sits down with Valerie Bowden, founder of Crdle, to discuss the evolving landscape of outsourcing and the unique opportunities Africa presents. Valerie shares her journey from backpacking across Africa to establishing a successful outsourcing company that champions fair wages and ethical practices. Discover how Crdle is changing the game by connecting businesses with talented professionals from the continent. IntroductionHost introduction and episode overview Shoutout to sponsors: Smart Choice and Canopy Connect[03:15] Valerie's JourneyValerie shares her adventurous backpacking trip across Africa How her experiences led to the founding of Cradle[10:45] The Cradle MissionDiscussion on ethical outsourcing and creating sustainable jobs The importance of fair wages and supporting African talent[18:30] Bridging the GapHow Cradle connects African professionals with global businesses Success stories and client experiences[25:00] The Role of AIValerie's insights on AI's impact on virtual assistants How AI tools enhance the capabilities of offshore teams[32:15] Tips for Hiring Offshore TalentValerie's advice for businesses looking to hire from Africa Best practices for onboarding and training virtual assistants[40:00] Closing ThoughtsValerie's vision for the future of outsourcing Final words and how to connect with Valerie and CradleSponsors:Smart Choice: The fastest growing agency network, offering a wide range of services to help agencies thrive. Visit smartchoiceagents.com for more information. Canopy Connect: Revolutionizing the way agencies handle client data with their innovative intake form platform. Learn more at usecanopy.com.Want to work with Crdle ? want to contact Valerie Bowden