ITC Vegas Reflection: Event Takeaways & Industry Trends with Jon Spaugy

Insurtechs.io

57:36

When Katharine Graham took over the Washington Post in 1963, she was a shy socialite who'd never run anything. By retirement, she'd taken down a president, ended the most violent strike in a generation, and built one of the best-performing companies in American history. Graham had no training, no experience, not even confidence. Just a newspaper bleeding money and a government that expected her to fall in line. When her editors brought her stolen classified documents, her lawyers begged her not to publish. They said it would destroy the company. She published them anyway. Nixon came after her, attacking her with the full force of the executive. Then Watergate. For nearly a year she was ridiculed and isolated while pursuing the story that would eventually bring down the president. Graham proved that you can grow into a job that initially seems impossible and no amount of training can substitute for having the right values and the courage to act on them. ------ 10 Lessons from Katharine Graham: ⁠⁠ ⁠https://fs.blog/knowledge-project-podcast/outliers-katharine-graham/ ------ Approximate timestamps: (0:00) Start (02:19) The Making of an Unlikely Heiress (10:15) The Education of a Publisher’s Wife (22:16) Learning to Lead (30:46) Becoming a Media Titan (44:12) Legacy (47:59) Reflections + Lessons ------ Thanks to ReMarkable for sponsoring this episode. Get your paper tablet at reMarkable.com today ------ Upgrade : Get a hand edited transcripts and ad free experiences along with my thoughts and reflections at the end of every conversation. Learn more @ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fs.blog/membership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ------ Newsletter: The Brain Food newsletter delivers actionable insights and thoughtful ideas every Sunday. It takes 5 minutes to read, and it’s completely free. Learn more and sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fs.blog/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------ Follow Shane Parrish X ⁠@ShaneAParrish⁠ Insta ⁠@farnamstreet⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ------ This episode is for informational purposes only and contains the lessons I learned reading her memoir, Personal History and watching Becoming Katharine Graham. ------ Check out our website for all stock video and photo credits. Episode photo sourced from: iwmf.org/community/katharine-graham/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 20:57

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of Post-ITC Reflection, we sit down with Jon Spaugy to unpack his experience at ITC Vegas. Jon, a seasoned industry professional and event organizer, shares his first-time experience attending the conference as a registered participant. He reflects on the sheer scale of the event, key takeaways on networking, and how ITC fosters connections beyond just the convention floor. Jon also discusses how his own event, Agent Brokers United, is evolving, and what lessons he’s taking from ITC to improve his own show. From innovative exhibitor booths to the growing presence of independent agents and insurtech creators, this conversation covers everything you need to know about the future of industry events and how to make the most of them. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsor Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://app.Traq.ai/Try-Traq/InsurTechs Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/Jon Spaugy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-spaugy-857056a/

98 episodes

#Business #InsurTechs.io

ITC Vegas Reflection: Event Takeaways & Industry Trends with Jon Spaugy

Insurtechs.io

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

98 episodes

#Business #InsurTechs.io

All episodes

1
The Evolving World of Insurance Media: Greg Crawford on 35+ Years in Journalism and P&C Insights 46:05

5 days ago46:05

46:05

In this episode of Industry News, Jeff sits down with Greg Crawford, editor at FT Specialist and a seasoned journalist with over 35 years in the media industry. Greg takes us on a journey through his storied career—from his start at AM Best and fast-paced reporting at Reuters during the Gulf War, to covering financial markets in Hong Kong and eventually landing in the insurtech world via P&C Specialist. Greg shares the changing landscape of insurance journalism, the importance of curiosity in newsrooms, and why property and casualty insurance is far from boring. He also dives into how storytelling in insurance is evolving, the impact of mental health awareness in industry coverage, and why the media is playing a larger role in how consumers and professionals understand risk, regulation, and innovation in the p&c sector. Whether you're in underwriting, claims, or just passionate about the insurtech space, this episode is packed with rich historical context, compelling stories, and real-world advice on careers, content, and curiosity. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Greg Crawford : https://www.linkedin.com/in/gcraw/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
From Bootstrapped Startup to Vertafore Acquisition: The AgencyZoom Journey with Moe Latif 47:38

12 days ago47:38

47:38

In this episode of Founders Journey, Jeff sits down with Moe Latif, co-founder of AgencyZoom, to talk about how a side project turned into one of the most beloved CRM platforms in the insurance industry and ultimately led to a successful acquisition by Vertafore. Moe shares how he and his co-founders identified a simple but critical problem in the insurance onboarding process and built a solution that quickly spread by word-of-mouth. This episode explores the scrappy early days—lugging duct-taped booths to conferences, sharing hotel rooms, and reinvesting every dollar back into the business. Moe also reflects on their product philosophy of providing "insanely easy" tools for agents, the cultural shift in insurtech adoption, and how integration and AI are shaping the future of insurance sales technology. Whether you’re an independent agent, startup founder, or someone fascinated by bootstrapped SaaS growth stories, this episode delivers valuable insight into building and scaling a tech solution inside a traditionally change-resistant industry. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Moe Latif : https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlatif/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Revolutionizing Insurance Payments: Greg Mallin on Agave Pay’s Vision for the Future 31:08

19 days ago31:08

31:08

In this episode of Industry Voice, Jeff sits down with Greg Mallin, a seasoned payments executive and Co-Founder of Agave Pay, to explore how payments are being reimagined in the insurance space. Greg shares his 25+ year journey through fintech, credit, and consumer finance before entering the world of insurance and transforming a legacy system plagued by inefficiencies. Learn how Agave Pay is streamlining workflows, enabling digital payments for carriers, MGAs, and agencies, and solving real pain points in a trillion-dollar industry. The conversation also dives into AI’s role in automating renewals and cancellations, the future of embedded payments, and the potential for deeper integration between CRMs and back-end accounting systems. If you're looking to understand how digital payments are reshaping the insurance value chain, this is the episode for you. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Greg Mallin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-mallin-4a95134/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
The Future of Insurance Innovation: Lessons from History with Steve Anderson 44:31

26 days ago44:31

44:31

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Anderson, best known for his work with The Bezos Letters, to explore how the past informs the future of innovation in the insurance industry. Steve shares his deep knowledge of insurance, technology, and risk, drawing from decades of experience to help founders, carriers, and investors understand what truly drives transformative growth. From Jeff Bezos’ leadership principles to the adoption curve of new technologies, this episode is packed with insights on how traditional insurers can embrace change and how insurtech founders can navigate resistance in legacy systems. Steve also discusses the biggest mistakes leaders make during transitions, the role of experimentation in innovation, and what Amazon can teach insurance about risk and reinvention. This is a can't-miss conversation for anyone passionate about the evolving insurance landscape. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Steve Anderson : https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevetn/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
AI Infrastructure, Gen AI Reliability, and Scaling Smart with Kevin McGrath of Meibel AI 54:31

5 weeks ago54:31

54:31

In this episode of Industry Voice, Jeff Shi and Alex Moy welcome Kevin McGrath, co-founder of Meibel AI, for a deep dive into how product and engineering teams can operationalize generative AI with confidence. Kevin shares insights from decades of experience in infrastructure at scale, explains Meibel’s unique approach to AI reliability via measurement and confidence scoring, and reflects on how gen AI democratizes capability across industries. From building billion-dollar businesses with lean teams to identifying overlooked sectors ripe for AI transformation, this episode is packed with actionable insights for builders in insurtech, fintech, and beyond. Kevin also discusses U.S. innovation, AI regulation, and where he sees AI + robotics going next. If you're navigating the frontier of applied AI and want to build with reliability at scale, this conversation is a must-listen. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Kevin McGrath : https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcgrathk/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Navigating Venture Capital & Insurtech Evolution with Dave Wechsler 56:12

6 weeks ago56:12

56:12

In this episode of Insurance VC, PE, and M&A, host Jeff Shi sits down with Dave Wechsler, Principal at OMERS Ventures, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of venture capital and insurtech. Dave shares his unconventional path from launching startups to leading one of the most active fintech and insurtech investment portfolios. He offers founders a transparent look into the venture capital mindset, including how funds decide where to invest, the importance of matching stage and thesis, and why most pitches get rejected. Dave and Jeff explore insurtech’s journey from 1.0’s disruptive beginnings to today’s 2.0 and the emerging 3.0 wave driven by AI innovation. The episode is packed with tactical advice on how to make your startup VC-ready, understanding lead versus follow investors, navigating board dynamics, and the realities of raising capital. If you’re a founder looking to understand the venture capital world or an operator curious about where insurtech is headed next, this conversation is a must-listen. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Dave Wechsler : https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewechsler/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Correll and Perez 49:05

6 weeks ago49:05

49:05

In this episode of Industry Voice, Jeff Shi sits down with Andrew Correll and David Perez, the driving forces behind InsurTech ATX — Austin's thriving grassroots insurtech community. They share the origins of InsurTech ATX, which started as a humble meetup in 2016 and has grown into a vibrant, international hub for insurance and tech professionals. Andrew and David recount how they transitioned into leadership during the pandemic and scaled the group through community engagement, thoughtful programming, and strategic sponsorships. The episode dives into how Austin’s unique mix of insurance talent and tech innovation fosters insurtech collaboration, highlighting notable local players like Steadily, Hippo, Loop, Assurely, Romely, and more. Listeners will learn about their monthly events, the highly successful McGlinchey symposium, and their vision for 2025 — including more founder dinners, startup showcases, and expanded collaboration with industry stakeholders. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of insurtech, grassroots innovation, and the power of community-driven ecosystems. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Andrew Correll : https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-r-correll/ David Perez : https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidperezatx/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
The Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster of insurtech and Beyond with Jeffery Arnold 38:20

7 weeks ago38:20

38:20

In this engaging episode of Industry Voice, host Jeff Shi sits down with serial entrepreneur and best-selling author Jeff Arnold. The conversation delves deep into Arnold’s dynamic journey through insurance, insurtech, private equity, and even professional sports ownership. Jeff shares how he went from stand-up comedy in North Hollywood to building and exiting multiple tech and insurance ventures, including RightSure, Lender Bridge, and Lender's Portal. With ten books under his belt—five of them Amazon #1 bestsellers—Jeff reflects on how he transformed academic struggles into thought leadership through discipline and creativity. He opens up about his foray into semi-pro soccer team ownership, the real ROI of sports investments, and his current mission: giving back to the industry through mentorship and board roles in various insurtech and AI startups. This episode is packed with authentic insights, entrepreneurial lessons, and inspiration for founders, investors, and insurance professionals looking to leave their mark on the industry. Whether you're curious about the evolution of insurtech, scaling agencies with AI, or writing your first book, this episode offers a wealth of takeaways. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Jeff Arnold : https://www.linkedin.com/in/rjefferyarnold/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Navigating IPOs, SPACs, and AI Valuations in insurtech with Michael Blankenship 30:53

7 weeks ago30:53

30:53

In this insightful episode, Jeff Shi is joined by Michael Blankenship, Partner at Winston & Strawn and Managing Partner of the Houston office, to unpack the current and future landscape of IPOs, SPACs, and M&A within the insurtech and broader insurance industry. Michael brings nearly two decades of legal and capital markets expertise to the conversation, offering founders, executives, and investors practical guidance on public company readiness, regulatory navigation, and capital strategy. The episode covers the evolution and regulation of SPACs, why the market cooled, and what a potential rebound might look like. Michael also explores how AI is transforming valuations in the insurtech space, why board composition matters for IPO success, and what legal firms like Winston & Strawn look for when working with high-growth insurance companies. Whether you're a Series C founder preparing for the next big leap or an investor curious about market signals for 2025, this episode delivers critical insights on navigating capital markets in a rapidly evolving insurtech landscape. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Michael Blankenship : https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Navigating the M&A Landscape for Independent Agencies with Mike Mensch & Colby Allen 50:30

7 weeks ago50:30

50:30

In this powerhouse episode of Insurance VC, PE, and MA, host Jeff Shi is joined by Michael Mensch and Colby Allen from Agency Brokerage Consultants to explore the complex, ever-evolving landscape of mergers and acquisitions in the independent insurance agency space. With over 500 transactions under their belt, Mike and Colby share insights that are invaluable for any agency owner thinking about growth, preparing for an exit, or understanding their agency's valuation. They dive deep into the foundational mistakes agency owners make, the difference between valuations and real-world value, and how to strategically prepare for an optimal exit. The conversation covers topics like owner dependence, growth strategy, poor sales management, and the impact of equity in modern M&A deals. They also address the reality of competing with PE-backed giants, navigating due diligence, and preparing for storms—both financial and literal—with special attention to the Florida insurance market. Whether you're two years from selling or two weeks into scaling, this episode is a masterclass in agency growth and transition strategy, featuring actionable advice and real-world war stories. If you're an insurance entrepreneur, this is one episode you can't afford to miss.Keywords: insurance agency M&A, selling an insurance agency, insurance agency valuation, insurtech mergers and acquisitions, independent agency exit planning, agency brokerage consultants, fractional CFO for insurance, insurance agency growth strategy, private equity insurance deals, insurtech market trends-----------------------------Thank you to our sponsors:Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-ioMavSign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechsWho said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today!https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.comFollow Insurtechs.io :https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechshttps://x.com/Insurtechs_iohttps://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechsListen to the Pod :Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYhPandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614Jeff Shi :https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/Mike Mensch :https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmensch/Colby Allen :https://www.linkedin.com/in/colbytallen/-----------------------------Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
From Captive Agent to annuity Leader: Tracy Lownsberry on Scaling Education-Driven Sales 32:37

8 weeks ago32:37

32:37

In this powerful episode, host Jeff Shi sits down with Tracy Lownsberry to unpack his evolution from a captive insurance agent to the founder of the largest social media community for annuity professionals. Tracy shares how his early experiences shaped a deeper commitment to transparency, education-based sales, and doing business the right way. He dives into building Annuity Giants Agents Academy, a subscription-based training model that’s reshaping how agents and advisors learn about annuity sales — without the usual recruiting strings attached. Tracy opens up about leveraging AI and CRM tools to scale his practice, the philosophy behind designing optimized lead funnels via Facebook and social platforms, and why his community-driven approach is gaining traction. He also discusses what sets top-performing annuity advisors apart in 2024, how his team builds sustainable virtual businesses, and why ethical product recommendations matter more than ever. Whether you're an aspiring insurance agent, a seasoned annuity advisor, or a financial services leader exploring scalable growth strategies, this episode delivers unmatched value on building legacy, mastering annuity solutions, and optimizing the sales journey through real education and purpose. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Tracy Lownsberry : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-lownsberry/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Navigating M&A, Lending, and Growth Strategies in the Insurance Industry with Kelly Drouillard 1:15:33

8 weeks ago1:15:33

1:15:33

In this episode of Insurance VC, PE, and M&A, Jeff Shi sits down with industry icon Kelly Drouillard to unpack the complexities of insurance M&A, lending strategies, and agency growth. With over 30 years of experience spanning carrier, reinsurance, and capital markets, Kelly brings a deep well of insight into insurance transactions. She breaks down the agency ownership lifecycle—from growth and optimization to perpetuation—while offering tactical advice on when and how to sell. Kelly also explains the nuances between SBA 7A loans and traditional bank lending, the risks and rewards of equity partners, how to build creditworthiness, and creative capital structuring. This is a must-listen for insurance agency owners looking to scale, exit, or navigate complex financial decisions with clarity. Whether you're planning an acquisition, evaluating your agency’s valuation, or preparing for perpetuation, Kelly’s perspective offers critical guidance grounded in decades of real-world experience. Keywords: insurance M&A, agency lending, SBA 7A, insurance capital, insurtech, agency growth, exit strategy, equity financing, commercial insurance, agency valuation, private equity in insurance ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Kelly Drouillard : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-drouillard-ins/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Building Scratch Agencies & Podcasting Community with Sean Fitzgerald & Stephen Turnbull 41:46

8 weeks ago41:46

41:46

In this episode, host Jeff Shi welcomes Shawn Fitzgerald and Stephen Turnbull, the dynamic duo behind the Scratch Agency podcast. Together, they share their journey of launching their own scratch agencies in New York and how their similar-but-different paths led to the creation of a podcast that has grown into a vibrant community for independent insurance agents. They dive deep into their reasons for documenting their journey, the importance of community and mentorship, and how their mastermind group is helping scratch agents across the country avoid costly mistakes. The episode also explores how regional carrier relationships, personal vs. commercial lines marketing, and the evolving role of AI tools in the insurance space are reshaping agency growth and operations. With over 100 episodes under their belt, Shawn and Stephen reflect on their most impactful interviews, valuable lessons from industry leaders like Brett Young, and the power of showing up with grit and transparency. Whether you're building a scratch agency or looking to learn from others navigating the independent channel, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways and inspiration. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ Shawn Fitzgerald : https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpfitzgerald/ Stephen Turnbull : https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-turnbull-930295109/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Bootstrapping a Flood MGA: Inside Flow Flood's Growth Story with Abbe Sulton & Michael Pallas 38:20

9 weeks ago38:20

38:20

In this episode, host Jeff Shi sits down with Flow Flood co-founders Abbe (A.B.) Sulton and Michael Pallas to explore their unique path from insurance distribution to building a flood-focused insurtech MGA. The conversation dives deep into their early days running a retail agency during the 2008 financial crisis, discovering market inefficiencies in residential flood, and evolving into a full-stack digital MGA with multiple binding agreements across 43 states. A.B. and Michael share their strategies for leveraging SEO, digital distribution, and legislation changes to grow their flood book, how their trip to Lloyd’s of London unlocked new reinsurance partnerships, and why they’ve remained bootstrapped through it all. This episode also covers private flood market trends, flood zone misconceptions, AI use in underwriting, and how Flow Flood is positioning for further growth and catastrophe product expansion in 2025. Whether you're an insurtech founder, MGA, or traditional agency owner looking to learn more about flood, this is a masterclass in identifying niche opportunity and executing in a high-barrier segment of insurance. ----------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors: Traq AI! To schedule a demo with Traq AI today -- https://calendly.com/traq/traq-ai-introduction-for-insuretechs-io Mav Sign up today to claim your exclusive offer: https://hiremav.com/insurtechs Who said insurance isn’t sexy? Prove ‘em wrong – grab your merch today! https://insurtechs-2.creator-spring.com Follow Insurtechs.io : https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurtechs/ https://www.youtube.com/@insurtechs https://x.com/Insurtechs_io https://www.instagram.com/insurtechs/ https://www.facebook.com/Insurtechs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@insurtechs Listen to the Pod : Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/insurtechs-io/id1775588982 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2jAGcKCT2v6rdWea3nvrYh Pandora - https://www.pandora.com/podcast/insurtechsio/PC:1001094614 Jeff Shi : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshiva/ A.B. Sulton : https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbe-sultan-548879/ Michael Pallas : https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpallas/ ----------------------------- Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us create more content, and we truly appreciate it! Thank you for watching!…

1
Global Insurance Transformation, Community, and the Power of Mindset with Rory Yates 36:22

9 weeks ago36:22