Insurance Refocused

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Jimi Honachek, Vice President of YMI Insurance, to talk about his industry journey. From integrating into his family agency's legacy to fostering trust among the staff, Jimi shares invaluable insights reflecting on his podcasts for local marketing initiatives, and the intricacies of implementing transformative changes such as process and technology upgrades.  ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Lindsay and Carey interview Jacob Eisenrich, Vice President of Weatherby-Eisenrich Insurance. Jacob shares his unique background as a doctor who transitioned to the insurance industry and discusses the reasons for leaving the medical field and how he settled on insurance as a career. Jacob emphasizes the importance of being data-driven in the agency and shares how his agency tracks KPIs and utilizes data tools. He also highlights the impactful decisions made in the agency, such as investing in employee development and implementing a data-driven decision-making process. Jacob offers advice for newcomers in the industry, emphasizing the value of mastering the craft and providing value to clients. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Lindsay and Carey sit down with Matt Naimoli to discuss Matt's journey of selling his agency. They cover topics such as finding the right partner, educating oneself on the selling process, and setting expectations for the future. Matt shares his insights on running the business with a future sale in mind and the significance of day two culture. He also offers advice for agency owners considering a sale. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities and opportunities involved in selling an agency. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Lindsay and Carey interview Daniel Smith, the co-founder of Market Retrievers, a digital marketing agency for insurance agencies. They discuss the importance of marketing for agencies and provide insights on how to effectively market insurance services. They cover topics such as choosing the right marketing channels, utilizing AI in content creation, measuring marketing success, and building relationships through marketing. The conversation also touches on the impact of branding and the value of agencies in the insurance industry. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights and tips for agencies looking to enhance their marketing efforts. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

🕊 In Memory of Bobby Salmon 🕊In this special re-launch episode, we pay tribute to our Bobby Salmon, whose passion in the independent insurance industry continues to inspire us. Join Carey and Lindsay as they revisit their conversation with Bobby, delving into the importance of fostering relationships in our industry and shaping its future.Though Bobby may no longer be with us, his wisdom and passion live on through this timeless discussion. Join us as we honor his memory and celebrate the invaluable lessons he shared with us all. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Chris Paradiso, the owner of Paradiso Insurance. They discuss Chris's background in insurance and the importance of discipline and mental readiness when buying an agency. Chris shares his experiences with failure and the lessons he has learned from them. He emphasizes the significance of building relationships in the insurance industry and the role of ego in leadership. The conversation also touches on the challenges of managing and inspiring others, as well as the importance of embracing hard things and overcoming fear. In this conversation, Chris Paradiso shares advice for insurance professionals starting out in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of researching and finding successful agents to learn from. Chris also highlights the value of learning from failures and the need for processes and procedures in running an agency. He encourages listeners to reach out to him directly for more information. Lastly, Chris discusses the value of giving and how it can lead to personal fulfillment and success. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Clinton Orr, an insurance agent and partner at iProtect Insurance. Clinton shares his journey in the insurance industry, starting from his background in real estate and his transition to insurance. He discusses the importance of finding a niche and building a book of business, particularly in the commercial lines market. Clinton also talks about his pathway to ownership and the dynamics of his partnership with Scott Howell. He emphasizes the need for humility, patience, and self-awareness in becoming a successful business owner. Clinton offers advice for approaching the subject of ownership and shares his contact information for further discussion. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this conversation, Chris May shares his experience of starting his own insurance agency and navigating a partnership. The conversation covers topics such as getting started in the insurance industry, the decision to start a partnership, the importance of clear communication and expectations, and the process of ending a partnership. Chris emphasizes the need for honesty, open communication, and understanding each partner's strengths and weaknesses. He also provides advice for those considering a partnership, including the importance of setting clear goals and structuring the business effectively. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In the third episode of the series, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Erik Garcia from Plan Wisely to talk about the financial challenges and considerations of ownership transfers in independent insurance agencies. Discussing the importance of emotional and financial readiness, setting clear boundaries, and planning for retirement and succession. They emphasize early conversations and proper planning to avoid unintended consequences and regrets. The impact of taxes on business transition is also explored, along with the role of a financial planner in navigating these complexities. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding both the personal and financial aspects of business transition. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Eric Garcia from Plan Wisely to discuss the financial planning considerations for agency owners. They cover topics such as starting an agency from scratch, being careful who you take cues from, aligning personal and business finances, and creating cash flow and equity. They emphasize the importance of making disciplined decisions, seeking guidance, and building liquidity. The conversation highlights the need for agency owners to have a team of professionals to help them make informed financial decisions. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for agency owners at different stages of their business. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Erik Garcia, owner of Garcia Insurance Services and Plan Wisely, to discuss how future owners can set themselves up for success with preparing their personal finances for ownership.  Erik emphasizes the need to start with a clear purpose and align financial decisions with personal values. He also discusses the importance of saving, managing spending, and avoiding common mistakes. Erik concludes by emphasizing the value of making decisions and taking action, and provides contact information for further assistance. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey Wallace and Lindsay sit down with Christos Provistalis about the recent sale of his family's business, Pleasant Pizza. They discuss the history of the business, the decision to sell, and the emotional impact of letting go. Christos shares how his family announced the sale to their staff and the community's response. He also talks about the future plans for each family member and his own speaking and workshop endeavors. The conversation highlights the importance of customer experience and communication in business. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Patty and Vanessa Lares to discuss how mother-daughter duos are revolutionizing the insurance industry. Breaking gender stereotypes, they unveil the secret ingredients for building a successful multi-generational agency, emphasizing how consistency, dedication, and proactive referral requests fuel their agency's growth. Vanessa shares her experience, highlighting the power of community involvement and events as potent marketing tools. Tune in to uncover the essentials for starting an agency—self-belief, hard work, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Michael McCormick and Taylor Dobbie, founders of Insurance Soup, a Facebook group revolutionizing agent collaboration. Join the conversation as they discuss breaking down industry silos, creating a safe space for agent-to-agent learning and growth, and pushing each other to excel. Discover how Insurance Soup is transforming the landscape of agent relationships online and in person.  ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Missy Stallings, owner of Stallings Insurance Agency, as she shares her journey in the insurance industry and how she navigated challenges such as long commutes and starting her agency during a recession. She discusses the importance of mindset and how she draws inspiration from Tony Robbins. Missy also talks about the use of tools like Culture Index and Traction to improve her agency's performance and create a vision for the future. She emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships and becoming on the referral list for her clients. Missy reflects on her mistakes and the importance of placing the right people in the right roles within her agency. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Lindsay and Carey sit down with George V. Pilat, a partner at Gertzberg, Lakata law firm. George has extensive experience working with insurance agents and agencies, particularly in M&A transactions. He provides legal services related to errors and omissions defense, coverage analysis, administrative proceedings, and more. The conversation covers topics such as non-compete and non-solicit agreements, the importance of understanding insurance contracts in M&A transactions, and the pitfalls of partial ownership of a book of business. George emphasizes the need for agents to involve a lawyer early in the process and obtain a proper valuation before buying or selling an agency. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Lindsay and Carey sit down with CJ Hutsenpiller, a Private Client Advisor at Hutsenpiller Insurance, Co-owner of CAC and TacoBot. They discuss the implementation of AI in insurance agencies and the various ways it can be used, such as content creation, personal AI training tools, and accounting reconciliation. CJ also explains the difference between TacoBot and ChatGPT, highlighting their respective functionalities. The conversation also touches on the cautionary use of AI and the importance of transparency in transitioning to ownership of a family agency.  ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode Carey and Lindsay sit down with Dr. Billy Williams, an expert in insurance sales, shares his insights on the biggest misconception in sales and the role of technology in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of scripts and templates in effective communication and provides practical advice on creating an elevator pitch.  ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode, Carey and Lindsay sit down with Austin Moorhead from LAVA Automation to discuss how integrating sales and marketing into your agency can double your manpower and cut costs. Learn about the crucial roles that Virtual Assistants and CRM systems play in achieving this efficiency boost. Tune in for insights into optimizing your agency's operations and maximizing productivity through strategic sales and marketing integration. ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/

In this episode Carey and Lindsay sit down with Morgan Harriss from Live Oak Bank to talk about financing acquisitions, buyer considerations and the market shift impact on M&A.  ///////////// Agency Focus is the premier resource for agents to understand their agency's value, plan for a transition of ownership, and prepare for acquisitions.Learn more at https://agency-focus.com/