Get a sneak peek into the world of risk management in higher education with Craig McAllister, the Assistant Vice President of Risk Management at the University of Miami and President of the University Risk Management and Insurance Association (URMIA). With over 25 years of experience in the field, including a significant tenure at Cornell University, Craig brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to managing risks in academic settings. In this episode, Craig discusses the dynamic challenges of his role, from enhancing campus safety while respecting free speech to mobilizing community leaders in risk mitigation efforts. He also shares insights into his responsibilities overseeing the University's comprehensive risk programs and his leadership at URMIA. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Craig and his work at the University of Miami. Craig loved that there was always something different to do when he got into this field. Being part of a bigger purpose keeps Craig energized. It’s exciting to support the mission, the research, and the clinical care at University of Miami, and making things happen through the lens of risk. How does Craig think about risk when working at a University? What are some of the challenges Craig has faced lately? How does Craig manage risk on campus while also protecting people’s free speech? How does Craig mobilize community leaders and help them think about risk mitigation? Every four years, Craig has to remind new students of the rules and policies, which helps you remember the basics. How do communication and public relations come into play? Craig talks about his role at URMIA. What advice does Craig have for professionals looking to get into risk management within academia? A shoutout to URMIA and their commitment to education. Mentioned in This Episode: University of Miami Craig on LinkedIn
Michael Levine is a partner in Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP’s Washington, DC office and a leader of the Firm’s Insurance Recovery Practice. He offers insights into the legal side of the risk management space and the important role that attorneys play in creating a system of checks and balances in the insurance space and offers insights from his experience to young professionals considering a career at the intersection of insurance and law. Key Takeaways: Michael shares insights into his work at Hunton Andrews Kurth. Being an attorney who practiced in insurance was not a childhood dream of Michael’s. After becoming an attorney, the decision to specialize in insurance coverage was an easy one. Michael has practiced both in favor of the policyholder as well as on the carrier side. What were Michael’s reasons for switching back and forth between the policyholder and carrier sides multiple times? The biggest misconceptions about the motives and actions of attorneys in the insurance space. What does it really mean if a lawyer gets involved in a claims case? The real reason Michael uses the term “policyholder” instead of “insured.” Attorneys are in place to provide a healthy system of checks and balances within the insurance industry. Maximizing insurance recoveries means giving policyholders everything they're entitled to. When is the right time to get an attorney involved in insurance policies? Once counsel gets involved, whether the broker has done their job makes all the difference in the outcome of the claim. Michael’s opinion on the high percentage of insurance payouts that ends up in attorney’s pockets. Acquiring new clients through marketing and networking, because repeat business is not good business in policyholder litigation. Michael reveals the biggest lessons learned from his years of practicing law in the insurance space. Tips for picking up the technical language of the insurance world. It’s all meaningful; Michael’s advice for finding the issues that mean something to you and righting a wrong. Mentioned in This Episode: RIMS — San Diego Event Michael on LinkedIn Hunton Andrews Kurth
Daniel Kaniewski is the Managing Director at Marsh McLennan and an American government official who served as the acting deputy administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He also served as the deputy administrator of FEMA for Resilience. In this episode, Daniel recalls the impact that 9/11 had on his personal and professional life and how it strengthened his resolve to increase the country’s preparation for catastrophic events. He shares the hurdles he has faced along the way, the role of luck and risk in every step of his career, and highlights the opportunities that response readiness and resilience have to offer young professionals today. Key Takeaways: Daniel highlights his role at Marsh and reveals his disaster resilience guru status. Daniel’s unusual pathway into risk management started with a volunteer firefighter paramedic who wanted to figure out how to reduce losses in the first place. After maxing out his EMT certifications and education, Daniel turned to a Ph.D. in public policy. An internship on Capitol Hill led Daniel to support the Gilmore Commission, where he worked to increase first responders' preparation for terrorist attacks. In a post-9/11 world, policymaker interest has shifted dramatically in favor of proactive training against acts of terrorism. The personal and professional impact of 9/11 on Daniel’s life and work. Watching the Pentagon take fire from the Capitol Building was a surreal moment, especially after learning that the Capitol Building was the likely target of Flight 93. Daniel’s “why” in the years following 9/11 only strengthened his resolve to continue the work he had been doing in the years prior. Hurricane Katrina swung the pendulum from terrorism directly to natural disaster relief. Federal departments and missions continue with their work, regardless of presidential administration changes, but their focus may change with each new president. Every dollar invested in disaster mitigation saves $13 in physical and economic costs should a disaster occur. Daniel was willing to help set up FEMA, as long as he was able to maintain a focus on disaster resilience. Local and national governments informing the public about key catastrophic exposure is critical for gaining support for investments in response readiness. What prompted Daniel’s shift from the public sector over to Marsh? Daniel recalls the professional relationships that have enabled him to take the risks that have made his career so fulfilling. Response readiness and resilience are top of mind across the country, and have a place for you! Mentioned in This Episode: Daniel on LinkedIn Marsh McLennan
Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard is the Senior Vice President for Lockton Companies. She is also a board member and treasurer for the Community of Hope, a non-profit focused on creating opportunities for low-income families in Washington, DC. In this episode, Jenna shares her journey from hesitantly stepping into a sales position to embracing her skills as a networker and people connector. She shares the truth behind the Lockton/Rolex legend and provides candid advice for young professionals navigating their careers. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Jenna and her role at Lockton Companies. Jenna, at first, didn’t see herself in the production role, but with a bit of encouragement and mentorship, she jumped into the position. Because of that training, Jenna doesn’t see herself as a salesperson, she sees herself as a communicator and bridge-builder. What was the first deal Jenna ever closed and what lessons did she learn from it? With any sales position, it’s important to talk with the client and be intellectually curious. What does Jenna love the most about being in risk management? Another project Jenna is passionate about is connecting accredited female investors to commercial real estate investment opportunities. Jenna won the 2023 Women to Watch Awards Americas EMEA and shares what it was like to win an award like that for the non-profit sector. Is it true that you are gifted a Rolex after ten years of working for Lockton? Jenna shares advice if you’re early in your career and you’ve been laid off and fired. Whatever happens, own up to your mistakes. Don’t try to bury it because it will make it so much worse. What other advice does Jenna have for young risk professionals? The insurance industry has so many options for you! Don’t underestimate the power of your young adult relationships in the industry. Everyone will be going on to do great things after 25-plus years in the industry and will become a wealth of knowledge, opportunities, and inspiration. Mentioned in This Episode: RIMS — San Diego Event Jenna on LinkedIn Lockton.com Communityofhopedc.org
Cheryl Reecher is the Vice President of Business Development at Cotton Holdings Inc. With a career spanning over two decades, across various high-profile roles in the insurance industry, Cheryl brings a rich wealth of experience from director of risk management to insurance broker, and now as a business developer. In this episode, Cheryl shares her journey from discovering insurance to mastering the intricacies of each major insurance role. Learn how Cheryl’s diverse experiences have enabled her to effectively bridge the gap between underwriters, brokers, and risk managers and how simple communication skills can go a long way in this field. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Cheryl and her role at Cotton Holdings Inc. What does a restoration company do? How does a restoration company gauge risk and calculate appropriate fees? How did Cheryl discover insurance? What interested Cheryl about the broker side of risk management? Shoutout to all the brokers out there. It is probably one of the hardest jobs in insurance. After learning about the broker side, Cheryl moved to the carrier side of the insurance business. She shares some of her key learnings from that experience. Through these different role transitions that Cheryl underwent, she ended up having an easier time bridging the gap between underwriter, broker, and risk manager. Sometimes the best solution is just to sit everyone down and talk it out. What surprised Cheryl the most about being in a carrier role? Sometimes being the only woman in the room, Cheryl shares some advice for the younger generation. What other advice would Cheryl give someone up and coming in their career? Mentioned in This Episode: Cottonholdings.com Cheryl on LinkedIn
Martin Drux is a Multinational Executive and is currently leading Marsh Multinational’s team in Europe, with a specialization in Asia Client Services. In this episode, Martin shares his experiences and the unique aspects of handling insurance across different continents. Martin also discusses the nuances of insurance practices in Germany versus the U.S., his role in vocational training insurance, and how he leverages his robust LinkedIn network to mentor and recruit talent from a multinational perspective. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Martin and what he does at Marsh. Does insurance get handled differently in Germany, where Martin is from, compared to the U.S.? If you want people to get excited about the industry, you have to tell stories about how your specific field makes a difference. Martin explains his field and how he got his start in vocational training insurance. What does a global relationship manager do within the insurance industry? Martin has a really robust portfolio and LinkedIn profile and now has over 21,000 followers. Now, with a strong LinkedIn base, Martin can use his platform to recruit and mentor talent from a multinational lens. Martin loves being able to use LinkedIn and network. It gives you a completely different sense of networking. Is there a difference between German brokers and U.S. brokers? How does Martin think about and structure mentorships? Very few people seem to know how to do this well. What advice would Martin give his younger self? Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Martin on LinkedIn
Josh Levy is the CEO and co-founder of Document Crunch, an innovative company dedicated to explaining construction contracts as simply as possible. With a background in Construction Management from the University of Florida and an enriching experience as a construction law clerk, Josh’s journey into construction and technology solutions is as compelling as it is impactful. This episode shares why Josh is so passionate about reducing risk in construction, how Document Crunch was born out of necessity, and the broader applications of their technology beyond just construction contracts. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Josh and his role at Document Crunch. How did Josh get into construction management and technology solutions? Why is construction so risky? Everything stems from what’s written in the contract. If something bad or unexpected happens, the contract should have it covered and noted. Why is Josh so passionate about this industry? How does Document Crunch work? Is Document Crunch just limited to construction contracts? Josh shares what attracted him the most to this industry when he was first studying it in college. When it came time to start his own company, what pushed Josh to become entrepreneurial? So many people don’t take their shot. Sometimes now is as good a time as any to take that risk. What’s next for Josh and his company? Josh believes younger folks should be investing in soft skills because that’s something AI won’t be able to take over as easily. The contract is key at the end of the day, which means everyone who signs it or is involved in it, needs to understand in layman’s terms what the contract covers. Why does Josh have an American flag behind him? He shares a quick story. Josh’s final piece of advice: Learn as much as you can and then don’t be afraid to take the risk. Mentioned in This Episode: Documentcrunch.com Josh on LinkedIn
James Benham is the co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge and shares his journey from bootstrapping a tech empire from his college dorm to becoming a leader in the insurance technology space. With over two decades of experience, James has propelled JBKnowledge to the forefront of insurance software, serving some of the largest companies worldwide. In this episode, he discusses his hands-on approach to business, his passion for the insurance industry, and his thoughts on the future of automation and AI in insurance. Key Takeaways: A little bit about James and his companies. James shares a little bit about his experience flying seaplanes. What is James’ vision with his companies? How did James bootstrap his companies and take in no investor money? Why is James so passionate about insurance? James shares how he thinks about AI and the future of automation in the insurance industry. James is happy that he can focus on the customers and his teammates and he doesn’t have to worry about third-party investors. If you look at the large players with investor funding, a large percentage is focused on investor relations and that’s a big distraction and takes away from the focus of the customer. How do you best identify a market problem that is both solvable and profitable? James speculates on what might be the next “big idea” in risk & insurance. Certificates of insurance are still a big pain. Is there any way we can simplify it? Mentioned in This Episode: Jamesbenham.com James on LinkedIn Jbknowledge.com Terra.insure Insurtechgeek.com
Anne Marie Towle is the CEO of Global Risk & Captive Solutions at Hylant. Since joining Hylant, Anne has grown the company’s captive consultancy into a powerhouse, earning U.S. Captive Review’s Captive Manager of the Year award. Prior to joining Hylant, Ms. Towle was an executive vice president with JLT and formerly a senior consultant with Willis Towers Watson for over seven years. In this episode, Anne shares her experience in the insurance industry, what a captive is, and when it makes sense to take on a captive based on company or property size. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Anne and her role at Hylant. How did Anne discover the insurance industry? There are a lot of different launch paths when you join the insurance and captive field. When does it make sense to look for captive solutions? Anne shares what it’s like pushing forward as a woman in a male-dominated industry. No matter where you are in your career, you should have your personal board of directors. Surround yourself with the people you enjoy spending time with, and grow together. Life is never perfectly balanced. You’ve got to walk the line a little bit between career growth and family. Anne likes to look at it year-by-year instead of day-by-day. Education is highly important throughout your career. You need to educate yourself along with educating your team on the latest methods/processes/technologies. There are a lot of captives overseas. Why is that? Where can a younger professional learn more about captives? What advice would Anne give to her younger self? Mentioned in This Episode: Hylant.com Anne on LinkedIn Iccie.org
Michael Galea is a seasoned Senior Underwriter at GCube Insurance Services Inc., with a decade of experience specializing in offshore wind projects and other renewable energy initiatives worldwide. Michael delves into his journey into underwriting, the challenges and triumphs he has faced at GCube, and his approach to delivering difficult news to clients. In the second half of the show, Peter Nadel joins the podcast as the Director of Member Relations and Marketing at Energy Insurance Mutual (EIM). On the show, Peter delves into his new role at EIM, the unique aspects of industry mutuals compared to other insurance models, and his seamless transition from Marsh to EIM while maintaining positive relationships. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Michael and the work that he’s doing at GCube Insurance. How did Michael get into underwriting? Michael shares a moment in his career at GCube that he’s really proud of. Michael offers tips for when you have to give bad news to a client. Give people bad news early and in person. Michael shares his focus on the renewable energy space in the upcoming years. A little bit about Peter and his work at EIM. What is an industry mutual and how is that different than other insurance mutuals? How did Peter get into insurance? Peter recently left Marsh, but yet he’s here at the Marsh’s Energy Conference with no bad blood. Peter explains why it’s important to communicate and be honest about your needs. What’s the difference between an industry captive vs. an industry mutual? Peter understands how much work goes behind this podcast and appreciates being on the show. Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com GCube Insurance Michael on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference Peter on LinkedIn Energy Insurance Mutual Limited
Yan Veytsman is a Senior Account Executive at Marsh, specializing in risk management for large-scale projects, particularly within the renewable energy sector. Yan has successfully placed multiple construction and operational insurance policies for projects exceeding $100 million. His expertise shines in navigating the complex risks associated with natural catastrophes and developing innovative insurance solutions for the burgeoning renewable energy industry. In this episode, Yan discusses the intricacies of managing risks in the renewable energy sector, and why it’s slightly more difficult than traditional tried-and-true industries. We also have Senior Vice President of Power & Renewables, Fred Wass, make a special guest appearance. Fred has been involved in the energy sector for the last 39 years and currently oversees Marsh’s Energy Practice. In his segment, he offers some insight into the energy sector as a relatively new insurance professional himself. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Yan and how he found his path in risk management. What interests Yan about renewable energy? Renewable energy is an industry that’s still developing, so Yan has some room to innovate and define a new model for how to run some of his accounts. Why can’t we use other models in different industries and put them in the renewable space? Why is it so different? With every single venture that Yan’s been involved in, he’s having to figure it out from scratch. There are too many variables to consider that don’t quite transfer over from the old tried-and-true models from well-established industries. How has the oil and gas industry been adapting to the renewable energy sector? Does it still make sense to invest in oil and gas? Katie introduces a new guest, Fred Wass. How did Fred get into this field and why has he stayed for the last 39 years? Fred developed power plants in Pakistan early in his career, but he fell into the insurance industry about 10 years ago. Fred believes it’s a lot easier today to talk to people within your industry and company than it was five years ago. Fred is excited for the future! There’s so much to do and there’s a lot more to come in the next 10 years. Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Yan on LinkedIn Fred on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference
Jen Aitchison is the President of Renewable Risk Consulting Inc. With over 15 years of dedicated experience, Jen has become an award-winning leader known for her deep understanding of renewable energy risks and her ability to create transparent, economically viable insurance solutions. In this episode, Jen delves into the nuances of renewable energy insurance and the importance of education and adaptation in the sector and she offers her unique perspective on the future of energy and insurance for those still in college. Key Takeaways: This episode was recorded at Marsh’s 2024 North American Energy Industry Conference! A big shout out to Michael Kolodner and his amazing leadership. Everybody backs clean energy, but sometimes there is a sense of distrust about the “correct” way. Why is that? We will need all types of energy for us to succeed in making it renewable energy. Coal energy is dirty. We all agree it should be reduced, including the coal miners! But then it stops becoming a conversation of energy and a conversation of education and re-employment. The average person is not aware of how many different facets of insurance exist. People think insurance is repetitive and boring. We as an industry need to get better at showing interesting and live case studies. Pick whatever industry your children want to go into and there’s an insurance claim that needs to be filed or underwritten within that industry. If you’re looking for stable employment, the insurance industry will never go through a “recession.” What advice does Jen give to younger college students who aren’t sure what they want to do with their life? Love sports? Love to travel? You can become an insurance underwriter for the sports industry. There are so many avenues you can go. Why is Jen so interested in sustainability? 16 years later, Jen still finds the work she does engaging, impactful, and important! Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Renewableriskconsulting.ca Jen on LinkedIn Marsh’s 2024 North American Energy Industry Conference red.”
Join us as we sit down with Miles Braxton, the Director of Risk Management at Summit Ridge Energy, at the Energy Industry Conference in Houston, Texas. In this episode, Miles discusses the unique aspects of community solar, the importance of diversity in the clean energy industry, and his role in co-founding the Black Oak Collective. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Miles and his role at Summit Ridge Energy. What is community solar? It’s Miles’s mission to provide cheaper electricity directly to residents, especially in underserved communities. Miles always knew he wanted to get involved with energy. He credits his high-school math teacher for the inspiration. How did Miles transition from working on anaerobic digestion projects to focusing on solar energy? Miles decided to join Summit Ridge Energy for a more community-impactful role and he loved the company’s mission. What is the Society of Black Solar Professionals? What was the inspiration for co-founding the Black Oak Collective? Miles shares how he created strategic partnerships and relationships in his career and the impact of certain team members in propelling the Black Oak Collective. This generation is creating a shift in company culture because they are approaching careers from a passion-driven mindset. Miles shares the story behind his favorite colorful drink and the importance of shared experiences in building relationships. What is the Green Gateways program by Black Oak Collective? Mentioned in This Episode: Srenergy.com Blackoakcollective.org Miles on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference Thank you :D
Michael Kolodner is the Global Renewable Energy and US Power leader at Marsh. In this episode, Michael shares insights from Marsh’s 2024 North America Energy Industry Conference. He highlights the importance of creating a collaborative space for stakeholders across the energy sector. He emphasizes the critical talent gap in the industry, the innovative approach of bringing diverse voices together, and the future of clean energy sources like geothermal. The episode also features a dynamic conversation with Elisa Cardenda and Andrea Yanez, two ambitious students from the University of Houston, who share their journey into the world of risk management and energy. They shed light on the evolving perceptions and opportunities within the industry from a young perspective. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Michael and his work at Marsh. Michael shares his approach to risk in the energy and power sector. When attending any industry conference, it’s important to facilitate meaningful dialogue without a sales agenda. What are Michael’s thoughts on talent acquisition and how to recruit new blood into the energy sector? Michael shares insights gained from attending and analyzing energy industry conferences globally, particularly in Dubai and Australia, and how it shapes his leadership style and vision. Michael admires how young professionals today seem to be more proactive than ever to advance their careers and seek support. This business is incredibly fun and rewarding; however, the majority of people just don’t know it exists. The barriers to entry into the risk industry are not that high. So many people have fallen into it and stayed. Law professionals aren’t able to say the same thing. Two undergraduates join the podcast to talk about their learning experience and journey into risk management. Elisa and Andrea share their initial misconceptions about the industry and how their exposure to the conference and educational programs changed their perceptions. What are Elisa and Andrea’s thoughts on the Middle East and how they manage their power sector? What makes energy so interesting and exciting for these two students? The discussion on the diversity of the energy sector, the various career paths within it, and the evolving landscape of opportunities is an incredibly exciting space to be in. There are no two days that are the same. You get to learn something new every day. Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Michael on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference
Join Sarah Sherman, Managing Director at NFP, as she dives into the intricate world of risk management within the fusion industry. This episode sheds light on the importance of working closely with clients, the requirements for industry-specific knowledge in managing risks, and the value of clear communication and honesty in building professional credibility. Sarah discusses her journey into risk and insurance, her pivotal role in The Wattles Fellowship, and her unique position in outsource risk management at Commonwealth Fusion Systems. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Sarah and her work at NFP. How did Sarah get into risk and insurance? How did Sarah first get involved with The Wattles Fellowship? Sarah explains her role as an outsource risk management in the fusion industry. Sarah shares why she feels very integrated at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, even though it’s a client of NFP. It’s quite common for the client or third-party company to want to continue working with an insurance provider and have them brought on full-time/in-house at their company. If you do a good job, people will want you, no matter what! How much do you need to know about fusion systems to accurately calculate and manage the risk? Sarah’s top industry secret is understanding who she needs to get involved in critical conversations early on. This way, her real risk expertise can shine through and the more senior fusion experts can provide guidance and support. Sarah breaks down how she thinks about risk and mitigates risk. Do not underestimate the power of picking up the phone and talking to people! Text and email are slow and can be misinterpreted. Don’t be afraid to say, “I Don’t Know.” It builds credibility as you seek to find the right and honest answer. Are there groups and communities for risk professionals within the fusion industry? Mentioned in This Episode: Nfp.com Cfs.energy Wattlesfellowship.com Sarah on LinkedIn
Scott Addis, the Founder of Beyond Insurance and a recognized innovator in the insurance industry, shares his multifaceted journey from sports psychology to becoming a key figure in risk management. In this episode, Scott delves into his unique approach to risk management, the importance of active listening and honest communication in understanding client needs, and he discusses his five-step risk management process. He also shares his method for becoming “rejection-proof” when building new relationships with prospects. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Scott and his role at Beyond Insurance. How did Scott go from Sports Psychology to Insurance? What is learned helplessness? Scott shares his five-step risk management process. When it comes to risk management, it helps to think about the process in medical terms. If a doctor tries to treat a patient without ever talking to them, or laying out a proper diagnostic/treatment plan, that would be called malpractice! People like to tell others what they think they want to hear. How does Scott get around that to hear the truth? It’s important to conduct employee interviews and take those honest findings back to management. Active listening is critical to fully understand the true problem at hand. What do you do when customers only care about price? Scott breaks down how to showcase your value without budging on the price point through his PRICE acronym. We’re living in a world with huge risk uncertainty. We need to band together and educate as many risk professionals as possible. Knowledge is power! No matter our industry, we can add so much value as risk professionals. Do not underestimate your knowledge and skill set. Scott shares a time he had to overcome an adversity/challenge in his career. Scott had to take a hard look at his flaws and figure out how to use them as strengths. Scott shares how he becomes “rejection-proof” by setting up prospect/sales calls with the right frame of mind. You have an obligation to yourself and your community to assess the degree of relationship with the agent or broker, and do they put value on how you create value? What advice does Scott have for people who are newly coming into the industry? Mentioned in This Episode: Beyondinsurance.com Scott’s Bio Scott on LinkedIn
Christopher Holmes, co-founder of RiskVersity, brings over 15 years of risk management expertise to the forefront of the insurance industry. In this episode, Christopher shares his journey from being an intern at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. to becoming the CEO of RiskVersity, a company dedicated to changing the insurance landscape by creating opportunities for minorities. He discusses the unique challenges and progress in diversity within the industry, his commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, and his vision for the future. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Chris and his role at RiskVersity. How did Chris come up with the name RiskVersity? How did Chris get into insurance? It certainly wasn’t on his vision board! Chris recently went through a physical transformation and shares some of his secrets to keeping fit. Chris’s motivation to stay healthy stems from his son as well as his father, whom he lost when he was 13. When Chris got his start as an intern at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., what was that experience like? Chris didn’t want to make a bunch of money and just be miserable in his position. He needed joy and passion in whatever career field he was in. How did Chris transition to Wells Fargo? Chris was the Vice President of the Corporate Diversity board at Wells Fargo. Chris shares the type of conversations they were having back then. There’s been a lot of progress that’s been made in the last 15 years, and Chris educates his son on how much work and how far so many minorities have come. Chris gives an example that he heard about a lynching in 2002 near his hometown in South Carolina. There’s progress, but there’s still deep racism and we can’t forget that. Have things gotten better in the insurance industry when it comes to diversity and making it more friendly for future generations? It’s so hard to be yourself when you’re the only one in the room. You are very conscious about avoiding becoming a “beacon” of a certain stereotype. Chris is also a marriage counselor, what made him pursue this certification? If you really love your partner, you have to go to the gym to maintain a happy and healthy relationship. So many of us, though, don’t even know what types of weights to lift to achieve that. Chris talks about Legacy Investment Funds, an initiative that helps African Americans discover and pool their capital to reach better investment opportunities. Mentioned in This Episode: Riskversity.com Chris on LinkedIn
Jeff Gurtcheff is the Chief Claims Officer at CorVel and brings a unique blend of passion, collaboration, and extensive experience in worker’s compensation, liability, and property claims. In this episode, Jeff shares his insights on the evolving role of insurance adjusters, the importance of mentorship, and the art of reading policies and people. Jeff also discusses how his experiences in team sports have enriched his professional life in insurance. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Jeff and his role at CorVel. Jeff had no clue what an insurance adjuster did. He had to go to the library to look it up. Knowing what Jeff knows now, he shares what he’d do slightly differently before joining insurance. Prior to joining insurance, Jeff was a baseball player in college. Jeff feels so fortunate that he had great mentors during his diverse career in insurance. Although reading insurance policies is a big part of what an insurance adjuster does, the other side is the ability to read people. Through the lessons Jeff’s learned in baseball and team dynamics, it’s helped his career greatly in insurance and working with a wide range of people. Jeff has noticed common myths about the insurance industry are (thankfully) disappearing. In insurance, we really want to take care of our customers and the people we serve. How is Jeff thinking about AI and incorporating it into what he does today? Where can people go to learn more about AI? The world changes and so does technology. We shouldn’t be quick to discard something that’s up and coming. What kind of challenges or adversity has Jeff had to face, thus far? What advice would Jeff give to others looking to create a career in insurance? Jeff gives a shout-out to one of his mentors, Dave Kelly. What a wonderful and patient teacher! Mentioned in This Episode: Corvel.com Jeff on LinkedIn
Milton Stark is a seasoned professional with an impressive 52-year career spanning industrial, government, and commercial sectors. His expertise lies in a broad range of areas including management, operations, and safety. In this episode, Milton dives into his extensive career in nuclear energy and risk management, discussing the evolution of safety protocols since the 1970s and addressing public misconceptions, including the current concerns over tritium in drinking water. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Milton and his very extensive career in the nuclear energy space! How did Milton find his way through risk management? There’s almost no industry in the world that’s safer than nuclear power because it’s always on everyone’s top-of-mind. Milton had a great plan for his life, but as his grandmother used to say, “Life is what happens when you’re planning your life.” How has the approach to risk management changed in the nuclear space from when Milton started in the ’70s to now? Milton was born in ’47 and remembers a time when he and his classmates had to do nuclear war drills. He believes the nuclear industry could have done a better job in educating the public on its safety protocols. Milton shares a real-time example of how nuclear misinformation has caused panic and unnecessary evacuations. There are a lot of protests happening right now regarding tritium being mixed in drinking water. Milton explains the half-life of tritium and its true dangers. People forget that sunlight also has radiation. What’s one thing Milton wishes he’d learned sooner in his life? Mentioned in This Episode: Miltonstark.com Milton on LinkedIn
Richard Vinhais is the Chief Executive Officer at WAX, an insurance company that protects rare collectible items. Richard shares how you can insure half of a collectible item, what he looks forward to in the expansion of the business, and why it really takes an “insider” to truly understand the pain points collectors go through when it comes to insuring some of these precious items. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Richard and what he does for WAX. WAX is a much-needed service in the collector space because the everyday insurer doesn’t understand the true value of some of these unique collector items. Richard shares why some of these collectible items are so important for people like himself. How did Richard discover risk and insurance? Richard shares what it was like working at EY and why the experience was so diverse. A lot of times, Richard would work on a project for a few months before moving on to the next project. He loves the variety and being able to experience different industries during those 15 years. Did you know ticket stubs are very rare and collectible? Why did Richard take a chance and get into entrepreneurship? Richard wanted to push himself and try something new, exciting, and scary. How does Richard think about insurance within this collectible industry? Richard conducts focus groups to better understand what people truly care about. In Richard’s spare time, he likes creating art and giving it away to friends. What are some hot collectible items on the market right now? Mentioned in This Episode: Wax.insure Richard on LinkedIn