Insurance Town podcast

#Business #Insurance #Money #Agent #Finance #P&c Insurance #Property Insurance #Casualty Insurance #Heath Shearon #Insurtech #Commercial Insurance #Life Insurance #Auto Insurance #Home Insurance #Podcasting Education

29:22

The world often feels rigged. And this episode is a wake-up call to recognize the barriers that exist for those who don’t fit the traditional mold. In this episode, which is a kind of tribute to my dear departed Dad, I recount some powerful lessons from the man who was a brilliant psychiatrist and my biggest champion. He taught me that if something feels off about the environment you’re in, it probably is—and it’s absolutely hella-not your fault. We dare to break into the uncomfortable truth that many workplaces are designed for a very specific demographic, leaving neurodivergent individuals, particularly those on the autism spectrum, feeling excluded. I share three stories in which my Dad imparted to me more than my fair share of his wisdom, and I'm hoping you to can feel empowered. You'll learn that we can advocate for ourselves and others to create a more inclusive work culture. Newsletter Paste this into your browser if the newsletter link is broken - https://www.lbeehealth.com/ Join our Patreon - https://differentnotbrokenpodcast.com/patreon Mentioned in this episode: Sign Up For Our Newsletter Stay updated on all the things! Get added to our newsletter mailing list. Newsletter…

Insurance Town

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Welcome to Insurance Town! Your host is the Mayor of Insurance Town, Heath Shearon. After many years in different parts of the insurance world, Heath wants to share his experience with you. Join in on conversations with Heath and many of the friends he's made along the way. Insurance Town is a production of Ready, Set, Podcast! Find more info at www.readysetpodcast.xyz Music: "Mornin, Noon, and Nite" by Daddy Long Legs

277 episodes

Insurance Town

14 subscribers

updated 6 days ago

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277 episodes

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1
Are you growing out of service? Mayor Solo 16:14

6 days ago16:14

16:14

1
Improve notetaking and better the client journey!! 38:31

13 days ago38:31

38:31

In this conversation, Daniel Yoo discusses the inception of Finmate AI, a tool designed to enhance the efficiency of financial advisors by automating note-taking and data entry. He shares his journey from being a financial advisor to creating a solution that addresses common pain points in the industry. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in financial services, the importance of maintaining human relationships, and the future of in-person meetings in a technology-driven world. In this conversation, Daniel Yoo discusses the transformative role of AI in the financial services industry, emphasizing the importance of human relationships in client interactions. He addresses data security concerns, the integration of AI with CRM systems, and the evolving client experience in a technology-driven world. Daniel also shares insights on how financial advisors can learn from each other and adapt to the changing landscape, ultimately highlighting the need for personalized service in an increasingly automated environment. takeaways Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:46 The Birth of Finmate AI 06:01 The Role of AI in Financial Services 09:05 Enhancing Human Relationships with Technology 12:05 Optimizing Workflows with AI 15:03 The Future of In-Person Meetings 18:50 The Role of AI in Financial Services 21:29 Data Security and Privacy Concerns 25:51 Integrating with CRM Systems 29:30 Learning from Financial Advisors 29:59 Enhancing the Client Experience 34:50 Final Thoughts and Contact Information…

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The claims concierge? 52:19

20 days ago52:19

52:19

In this engaging conversation, Ben Morrow shares his journey from a nomadic childhood to his current role in the insurance industry. He discusses the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding career, the impact of personal loss on his wellness journey, and the unique bond he shares with his identical twin. Ben emphasizes the importance of trust and resilience in navigating life's ups and downs, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to personal growth and spirituality. In this conversation, Ben Morrow discusses the innovative approach of Claims Concierge in the insurance industry, focusing on enhancing the claims process for policyholders. He emphasizes the importance of building trust between agents and clients, the role of contractors, and the need for a grounded presence during claims. Morrow also addresses the challenges faced in the industry, including the need for better communication and follow-through, and highlights the significance of vulnerability in fostering relationships and providing support during difficult times. Chapters 00:00 Spring Break and Family Life 03:00 Ben Morrow's Journey: From Childhood to Career 06:04 The Impact of Family and Personal Loss 08:55 The Twin Connection: Identity and Individuality 11:51 Wellness and Spirituality: A Lifelong Journey 14:59 Navigating Life's Challenges: Trusting the Process 20:59 Entering the Insurance Industry: A New Chapter 25:22 Claims Concierge: A New Approach to Insurance Claims 31:51 The Role of the Agent: Building Trust and Relationships 36:48 Navigating the Claims Process: A Grounded Presence 41:26 Overcoming Industry Challenges: Building Trust and Relationships 47:54 Leading with Vulnerability: The Human Side of Claims Sponsors: Smart Choice Canopy Connect…

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Did he just say he has solved cold calling forever? you gotta hear this .... 32:55

26 days ago32:55

32:55

In this episode of Insurance Town , Mayor sits down with Paul Neuberger , Best Selling Author of the book: Secrets to Cold Call Success and the founder of C-Suite for Christ , an incredible community that brings together executives with a shared Christian faith. Paul discusses a variety of important topics, including the often-overlooked challenges faced by C-suite executives, the struggles of cold calling, and he tells us of the unfortunate, unhealthy habits in the lives many high-level professionals face in their careers. Throughout the conversation, Paul dives into: The Importance of Faith in Leadership: How Christians can maintain integrity and faith in the corporate world, even when facing tough decisions. Cold Calling: The challenges and strategies for effective cold calling, especially in the world of business development. The Health of C-Suite Executives: The often-hidden toll leadership can take on executives, both physically and emotionally, and the importance of maintaining balance. The Mission of C-Suite for Christ: Paul shares the heart behind his organization, its mission, and how it’s transforming the way leaders approach faith and business. Common Struggles for Christians in the Corporate World: What it looks like to integrate one’s Christian faith with corporate responsibilities and how to stay true to values in an often secular business environment. Whether you're an executive, a Christian business professional, or someone looking to understand how faith intersects with leadership in the modern world, this episode will offer valuable insights into navigating corporate life with integrity and purpose. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Smart Choice : Helping independent agencies grow and succeed through access to top carriers and cutting-edge tools. Canopy Connect : Simplifying the insurance quoting process with a smarter, quicker way to gather customer data. Olde School Marketing : Your trusted partner in creative marketing strategies designed to help your agency stand out in a crowded market. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Let us know your thoughts on the episode and how you integrate faith into your leadership journey!…

1
Town Hall Meeting - With Bradley Flowers 49:25

5 weeks ago49:25

49:25

in this weeks episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor himself brings you insights and strategies to help grow your agency! In this special Town Hall episode , we are joined by Bradley Flowers of Portal Insurance . Bradley is a master at building referral relationships with lenders and realtors , and today he’s sharing his game-changing strategies with our community. If you’ve ever felt stuck working with realtors who don’t close deals or lenders who don’t deliver , this episode is for you! Bradley has cracked the code on how to identify and partner with the right referral sources —and he’s giving us the full playbook. Key Takeaways: Stop Wasting Time: How to avoid partnering with lenders and realtors who don’t deliver. Data-Driven Referrals: How Referral Radar can identify high-value partners already sending business to insurance agents. Strategic Integrations: How to plug Bradley’s system directly into your CRM/AMS to streamline follow-ups and maintain relationships. Predictive Analytics: Learn how to use real-time data to find lenders and agents that are most likely to work well with your agency . Relationship Building: Tips for long-term success in leveraging referral partners to grow your book of business. Why You Should Listen: Bradley Flowers has found a way to make referral partnerships strategic rather than random . This episode will teach you how to work smarter, not harder —so you can spend less time chasing and more time closing deals. Episode Resources: Learn more about Bradley Flowers and his work at Portal Insurance Check out Referral Radar to discover the best referral sources in your area Missed the live Town Hall? Catch the full replay here: [Insert Link] Connect with Us: Follow Insurance Town on [LinkedIn] Subscribe to the podcast on [Apple Podcasts], [Spotify], and [Google Podcasts] Got feedback or want to suggest a guest? Reach out at [Insert Contact Info] Special Thanks: Big shoutout to our sponsors for making this Town Hall possible: SMART CHOICE – Helping agents grow their business with the right partnerships. Canopy Connect – The easy way to gather insurance data. Olde School Marketing – Personal and powerful branding for your agency. Tune in, take notes, and let’s grow your referral network the right way! Enjoy the episode!…

1
Re-Air: Can You Rebuild After Losing Everything? Marques Ogden Did—Here’s How 44:04

6 weeks ago44:04

44:04

In this re-aired episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor sits down with former NFL player turned inspirational speaker and business coach, Marcus Ogden. This is one of our most powerful and motivating conversations, and we wanted to bring it back for those who missed it—or need to hear it again. Marcus shares his incredible journey from playing in the NFL to hitting rock bottom, working as a custodian for $8/hour, and ultimately rising again to become a highly sought-after speaker and leadership coach. His story is raw, real, and absolutely packed with lessons for agency owners, producers, and anyone striving to lead with purpose. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll hear: What Marcus learned from legendary NFL coaches like Jack Del Rio and Jeff Fisher The “PIVOT” mindset and how it applies directly to the insurance industry His rock-bottom moment—and how it became the fuel for his next chapter Why ego can be your downfall, and how humility and character build lasting trust Practical leadership advice that applies whether you're in the back office or the corner office Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible—and for continuing to support the Insurance Town Podcast! Smart Choice: Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. Canopy Connect: Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. Olde School Marketing: For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game!…

1
Is High-Net-Worth Insurance Really That Different? 57:21

7 weeks ago57:21

57:21

In this episode of Insurance Town, host Heath Shearon sits down with Kevin Koone, a well-respected insurance professional with a fascinating career journey. Kevin shares how he transitioned from aspiring to work in the medical field to making his way through GIS mapping, janitorial work, and eventually finding his place in the independent insurance space. Heath and Kevin discuss:; ✅ The challenges of commission-based sales and how he navigated early struggles. ✅ High-net-worth clients—how he got into that niche and what makes them different. ✅ How to handle tough conversations about rate increases and policy changes. ✅ The importance of empathy, education, and building lasting client relationships. ✅ The evolving role of leadership in independent agencies and the difference between personal and commercial lines service styles. Kevin also shares personal insights on faith, family, and the value of time in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting, this episode is packed with real-life lessons and industry wisdom. Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! Smart Choice: Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. Canopy Connect: Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. Olde School Marketing : For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! 🎧 Tune in now and let’s talk insurance! 🚀…

1
The Secrets to Making the Most of Industry Events 25:28

8 weeks ago25:28

25:28

In this exciting episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor, sits down with Ricky Brito of Agent Brokers United (ABU) to talk all things networking, trade shows, and building relationships in the insurance industry. Ricky shares his journey from manual labor to becoming a key player in the insurance event space and how ABU is changing the game for agents and brokers nationwide. We also take a deep dive into the ABU National Insurance Trade Show Convention coming up in Las Vegas at Planet Hollywood on April 24-27, 2025. Ricky lays out what attendees can expect—from the Chris DeJune Memorial Golf Tournament to a packed lineup of keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and after-hours events. Key Takeaways: ✔️ The Power of Networking – Why building relationships is key to success in the insurance industry. ✔️ ABU Trade Show Breakdown – Everything you need to know about the upcoming ABU National Insurance Trade Show Convention in Las Vegas. ✔️ Maximizing Your Conference Experience – Pro tips on how to make the most of your time at trade shows and industry events. ✔️ The Importance of Follow-Up – How to turn new connections into lasting business opportunities. ✔️ The Fun Side of Conferences – From golf tournaments to exclusive after-hours parties at the Wynn Las Vegas, there’s more to industry events than just business. Event Details & Registration: 📅 ABU National Insurance Trade Show Convention 📍 Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas 🗓 April 24-27, 2025 🎟 Register at: ABUunited.com 💰 Use Promo Code: HEATH for 50% off registration! Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! 🎯 Smart Choice – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. 📊 Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. 📢 Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! 💡 Connect with Us: 🔗 Follow Ricky Brito on LinkedIn & Social Media 🎙 Subscribe to Insurance Town Podcast for more great episodes! 🚀 See you in Las Vegas!…

1
Turning Challenges into Strength: do NOt let anyone or anything else define you 48:17

9 weeks ago48:17

48:17

In this episode of Insurance Town, Heath Shearon sits down with Kimiko Donahue, an insurance pro who has done it all—captive agent, independent agency owner, carrier rep, and now a coach helping business owners find their path. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🚀 Kimiko’s Journey – From selling car washes to running a successful independent agency. 💡 Lessons from Captive to Independent – Why her training in the captive world helped shape her sales approach. 🤝 Building Strong Carrier Relationships – How understanding the carrier side can make you a better agent. 🔥 Coaching & Mentorship – Why finding the right mentors and mastermind groups can make all the difference. 💪 Turning Adversity into Strength – How overcoming personal struggles has fueled her success. 🎶 The Power of Music – How music can be a game-changer in business and life. Key Takeaways: ✔️ The importance of selling on value instead of price. ✔️ Hard markets affect everyone, but mindset and strategy make the difference. ✔️ Why turning away the wrong business can actually help you grow. ✔️ The power of mentorship, coaching, and masterminds to break through limitations. Kimiko’s story is inspiring, insightful, and packed with wisdom for agents at every stage. Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! Smart Choic e – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! 🎧 Listen Now and get inspired!…

1
How PayPal leveraged AI and technology to transform digital payments. 51:49

10 weeks ago51:49

51:49

In this captivating episode of the Insurance Town Podcast, Mayor Heath Shearon welcomes the tech-savvy and insightful Mike Todasco. Known for his rich background in innovation and technology, Mike shares his journey from working at PayPal to becoming an expert in generative AI. Together, they dive deep into how AI is transforming industries, including insurance. Mike explains the disruptive journey of PayPal, the evolution of mobile payments, and the strategic pivots that kept the company at the forefront of digital transactions. The conversation then shifts to the power of AI and its incredible potential to revolutionize the way agencies operate. From comparing insurance policies to streamlining daily tasks, Mike and Heath explore innovative AI use cases that can simplify processes and enhance customer experiences. Whether you’re an AI skeptic or already experimenting with ChatGPT, this episode is packed with practical ideas and inspiration to take your agency to the next level. Key Takeaways: AI's Role in Business Evolution: How PayPal leveraged AI and technology to transform digital payments. Generative AI in Insurance: Practical use cases for streamlining policy comparisons and enhancing customer communication. Embracing Technology: Why insurance agencies should overcome tech hesitancy to stay competitive. Personalized AI Applications: How to tailor AI tools to fit your agency's unique needs and voice. Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! Smart Choice: Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. Canopy Connect: Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. Olde School Marketing: For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! Tune in now to discover how AI can transform your agency and learn from one of the industry's brightest minds!…

1
a Minute with the Mayor 11:27

11 weeks ago11:27

11:27

In this episode I just want to say thank you and to make an announcement or two !! Please take a few minutes to subscribe and download this little episode for future listen if ya want but make sure you do. We have some big things coming up here in Insurance town! Love you all! thank you all !! See you soon ! Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! Smart Choice – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! 🎧 Listen, Subscribe & Leave a Review! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more great conversations in Insurance Town ! 🚀…

1
What Happens When We Stop Hiding and start having real conversation? 47:48

12 weeks ago47:48

47:48

In this episode of Insurance Town , host Heath Shearon sits down with Brenden Corr to catch up on life, career changes, and the powerful work he's doing with Project 55 —a mental health initiative focused on supporting employees in the insurance industry. Brenden shares insights into his transition from Lost Run Pro, the importance of prioritizing family, and his passion for mental health advocacy in the workplace . The conversation takes a deep dive into how mental health affects insurance professionals, especially during challenging market conditions . Key Takeaways: Life Updates from Brenden Corr – Moving from Lost Run Pro and what’s next. The Reality of Small-Town Montana – Why locals have mixed feelings about Yellowstone . Understanding Project 55 – A movement aimed at providing free mental health resources to insurance professionals. Workplace Mental Health Awareness – Why leaders need training to support their teams effectively. The Hard Market’s Mental Toll – How insurance agents, CSRs, and account managers can manage stress. Breaking the Stigma – Heath and Brenden discuss generational shifts in mental health conversations. About Project 55 Project 55 is designed to bridge the gap between mental health struggles and access to help, offering: Free resources for mental health education. A community forum for peer support. A first responder training program for agency leaders to better support employees. Check it out: Project55.org Final Thoughts Mental health isn’t a weakness , and you’re not alone . Whether you're struggling with tough client conversations, workplace stress, or personal challenges, help is available. 📢 Don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues—mental health awareness starts with a conversation! Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! Smart Choice – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game!…

1
What Do Ministry and Sales Have in Common? 32:08

13 weeks ago32:08

32:08

In this episode of Insurance Town , host Heath Shearon sits down with Kyle Kuest , a dynamic sales professional at Vertafore , to talk about his unique journey from ministry work to the world of insurance technology sales . Kyle shares how his background in the church, his passion for history, and his experience in teaching shaped his approach to sales, customer service, and leadership. Kyle and Heath discuss: ✔️ Lessons from Ministry & Teaching – How active listening, empathy, and organization play a vital role in sales. ✔️ Sales Strategies in a Hard Market – Why agencies should focus on organization, proactive communication, and leveraging technology. ✔️ The Power of Workflow & CRM – How AgencyZoom and Vertafore’s management systems help agencies streamline their processes. ✔️ Overcoming Challenges – Advice for insurance professionals navigating the current market. ✔️ The Importance of Community & Collaboration – Why independent agencies should work together rather than compete in isolation. Kyle also shares his winning strategies that helped him earn awards in his first year at Vertafore and provides practical tips for insurance professionals looking to level up their sales game. Connect with Kyle Kuest: 📌 LinkedIn : Kyle Kuest 📌 Vertafore : www.vertafore.com Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! 🟠 Smart Choice – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. 🟠 Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. 🟠 Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! 🎧 Listen, Subscribe & Leave a Review! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more great conversations in Insurance Town ! 🚀 #InsuranceSales #HardMarket #InsuranceTechnology #Vertafore #AgencySuccess…

1
Navigating Challenges & Driving Change in Insurance 31:19

14 weeks ago31:19

31:19

In this episode of Insurance Town, Mayor Heath Shearon sits down with his good friend and insurance powerhouse, Ariel Rivera, the newly appointed President of PIA National. Ariel shares his journey, the responsibilities of his new role, and how he’s embracing the challenges of leadership in the independent insurance world. Episode Highlights: ✅ Ariel’s Journey to Leadership – From starting in the industry to becoming the youngest-ever PIA National President, Ariel reflects on his path and what drives his passion for the independent agency space. ✅ What PIA Does for Agents – Ariel breaks down the advocacy, education, and networking opportunities PIA provides, and why agents need to be engaged to reap the full benefits. ✅ Hard Market Realities – Ariel and Heath discuss the ongoing hard market, its impact on independent agents, and what agents can do to navigate these challenging times. ✅ Advocacy Matters – Hear Ariel’s firsthand experience testifying before Congress about flood insurance reform, and why agents need to be aware of legislative issues affecting the industry. ✅ Cyber Insurance & RGS – Ariel shares his work with RGS, helping agencies provide cyber coverage solutions in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. ✅ Stronger Together – The importance of unity and collaboration in the insurance space, and how the PIA is growing stronger through collective action and support. Heath and Ariel bring the energy, passion, and love for the industry in this episode—one you don’t want to miss! Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible! 🔹 Smart Choice – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs. 🔹 Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes. 🔹 Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game! 🎧 Tune in now and let’s talk insurance! 🚀…

1
I finally understand it! and so will you.... 48:32

15 weeks ago48:32