Episoder
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by author, columnist, and keynote speaker Gene Marks to look at some of the challenges and opportunities facing small and medium businesses. Gene shares what some of the smartest and most experienced business leaders are doing to navigate these changes. He touches on the upcoming election, possible tax changes, labor issues, and technology, specifically preparing for and harnessing the power of generative AI. If you want to hear more on tax changes and cybersecurity in the age of AI, check out these past episodes: "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Sunset in 2025 and Its Impact on Construction Services" and "Constructing Cybersecurity: Navigating Data Protection in the Construction Industry."
With special guest:
Gene Marks, CPA, The Marks Group PC
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we explore the world of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) with Jim Tressel and Travis Remick of Liberty Mutual Surety. They discuss the unique aspects of ESOPs, and the factors contributing to their current prominence. Our guests provide insightful considerations for selecting an ESOP consultant, understanding valuation processes, the significant role ESOPs can play in a company's succession strategies, as well as the value of including the surety early in the process. For more information on ESOPs, check out this NASBP Virtual Seminar mentioned during this episode, "Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP): What You Should Know."
With special guests:
James (Jim) Tressel, Senior Vice President and Chief Underwriting Officer, Liberty Mutual Surety and Travis Remick, Chief Underwriting Officer, Contract Surety, Liberty Mutual Surety
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we discuss the ongoing changes in Canada's importing process with Sheila Thompson of Rosenberg & Parker of Canada and Cristina Hagivreta, Surety Manager at Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company. They delve into the new Canada Border Service Agency Assessment and Revenue Management System (CARM), a timely initiative that shifts Canada from a process focused on customs broker bonds to importer bonds. Our guests also discuss the implementation process of CARM, covering its electronic nuances and practical adjustments required by importers and surety companies as the changes are set to go into place on October 21, 2024. For more information and to stay up-to-date on these dynamic changes check out the Canada Border Service Agency's CARM resource page.
With special guests:
Sheila Thompson, President, Rosenberg & Parker of Canada, Inc. and Cristina Hagivreta, Manager, Surety, Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by EMC Bond!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we discuss the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the construction industry with guest Richard Volack, a partner at Peckar & Abramson. Richard highlights several factors that typically make construction companies more vulnerable to cyber attacks, such as slower technology adoption and the need for the exchange of sensitive data among parties. Volack also shares steps that can help mitigate cybersecurity risks like using multi-factor authentication and making regular firewall updates. Be sure to check out the NASBP Virtual seminar, AI in Construction Law: Managing Risks and Opportunities that is mentioned during this episode and search Cybersecurity on the SuretyLearn Catalog to dive in even deeper!
With special guest:
Richard Volack, Partner & Chair, Cyber Security & Data Privacy Practice, Peckar & Abramson
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by EMC Bond!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we hear from Will Kantlehner IV of Gallagher, and Nate Byerly from Gray Surety, as they share their journies to their surety careers and delve into the intriguing intersection of private equity and surety. They unpack how the introduction of a fourth party, the private equity company, adds additional nuances to the bonding processes though the principles stay the same. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities arising from private equity firms' involvement in construction companies, the varying levels of knowledge these firms may have about surety and bonding practices, and the overall complexity in understanding this fourth entity. Interested in learning more about Private Equity and Surety check out these great NASBP Virtual Seminars on the topic:
The State of Private Equity: Current Trends and Outlook
Private Equity’s Growing Interest in the Built Environment
Private Equity and Bonding Private Venture Owned Business
Private Equity for Surety Professionals: What You Need to KnowWith special guests:
Will Kantlehner IV, CPCU, Area Vice President, Gallagher and Nate Byerly, CPCU, Bluegrass Regional Manager, Gray Surety
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by EMC Bond!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by construction financial accounting expert Todd Feuerman and construction tax expert Travis Klein, both of Ellin & Tucker. We explore the potential impact of the impending sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) on the economy, particularly the construction segment. These construction CPAs discuss the wider implications, such as the effect on sureties and construction lenders and on contractors undertaking succession and estate planning. They provide their expert insight into the opportunities and challenges arising from the upcoming changes. Tune in and learn how best to navigate the sunset of the TCJA.
With special guests:
Todd A. Feuerman, CPA, MBA, CCA, Director and Chair of Construction Services Group, Ellin & Tucker and Travis T. Klein, CPA, MBA, Director, Tax, Ellin & Tucker
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP
Sponsored By EMC Bond!
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader in the surety industry? NASBP is excited to continue the series of episodes exploring that question, titled “The Corner Office: Conversations with Surety Leaders.” In this episode, we are joined by surety industry leader Ryan Springer, VP/Bond at EMC Bond, who shares how he found his love for surety and his role in the industry due to an unexpected Powerball win. Ryan also delves into the culture of EMC Insurance, emphasizing the importance of continuity, stability, and staff retention, and shares insights into the company’s recent growth. Additionally, Ryan speaks to opportunities and challenges on the horizon concerning surety claims and the surety industry as a whole. You can check out the EY report prepared for SFAA, mentioned during this episode, titled The Economic Value of Surety Bonds and listen to past episodes in The Corner Office series!
With special guest:
Ryan Springer, Vice President/Bond, EMC Bond
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by EMC Bond!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, Kat Shamapande and co-host, Mark McCallum, have a discussion with legal and surety experts on the possible role bond producers can play in the contract bond claims process. Special guests are Jon Bondy of CSG Law, Robert Coon of Scott Insurance, and Marilyn Klinger of SMTD Law. Together, the hosts and guests explore how the bond producer, who often is not involved in the claims process, may, if involved, play a helpful role in heightening communications between and normalizing circumstances for both the principal and the surety when a claim arises.
With special guests:
Jonathan Bondy, Member Chair, Fidelity & Surety, CSG Law, Robert Coon, Vice President, Surety Advisor, Scott Insurance, and Marilyn Klinger, Managing Partner, SMTD Law LLP
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored By EMC Bond!
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In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we chat with Neil Shah, CEO of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). Neil talks about his journey to becoming CEO of CFMA and highlights the organization's dedicated membership and its commitment to expanding the construction industry. His strategic goals focus on creating an inclusive community and advancing the industry through collaboration. Neil also emphasizes the importance of CFMA's CCIFP certification in building recognition and trust within the industry. Tune in to learn more about the future of CFMA and its impact on the built environment. You can also listen to episode "#108 Pursuing The CCIFP Credential" mentioned in this episode to learn more about the CCIFP.
With special guest:
Neil Shah, President & CEO, Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA)
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
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The Tiger Trust Award, a prestigious recognition in the surety industry! In this episode of "Let's Get Surety® we are joined by Kevin Garrity, Vice President, Surety & Construction Services of NFP, who was awarded the 2024 Tiger Trust Award as he shares his recent experience in successfully convincing a private college to require a surety bond for a substantial construction project, landing him the award. Kevin emphasized the importance of the protections offered by the surety product to project owners. Find out more about NASBP's Tiger Trust Award and the application process that opens in the fall each year and how you too can submit an application, and check out the resources comparing the surety product and SDI that Kevin shared with the local college leading to his Tiger Trust Award!
With special guest:
Kevin J. Garrity, Vice President, Surety & Construction Services, NFP
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
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On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we discuss the role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming construction with business leaders Puneet Mahajan, Wan Li Zhu, Chris Lanzisera, and Doug Ware, senior executives with Suffolk and related companies. They discuss the key challenges facing the construction industry, from a lack of productivity to an aging workforce and low levels of digitization. The lively conversation delves into how data, technology, and AI are being utilized to overcome these hurdles and to gain efficiencies and opportunities. Check out additional Technology and AI Podcasts and NASBP Virtual Seminars to explore this topic further!
With special guests:
Puneet Mahajan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Suffolk Technologies, Wan Li Zhu, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Suffolk Technologies, Chris Lanzisera, Senior Vice President, Suffolk Design, and Doug Ware, Senior Vice President of Risk Management, Suffolk Construction
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
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On this episode, we are joined by NASBP President Zach Mendelson of EPIC as he shares both his career journey and his journey as a NASBP member and volunteer. He talks about his role as Chair of NASBP's Industry Relations Committee, where he played an instrumental part in launching the Be Guaranteed To Succeed (https://www.nasbp.org/guaranteed/home) public relations campaign. Zach also discusses his presidential theme, Backing Our Future, and the exciting work that has been initiated to create and promote a university-focused education and internship program that highlights the phenomenal career opportunities in the surety industry!
With special guest:
Zach Mendelson, Principal, Bonds/Insurance/Construction, EPIC | Edgewood Partners Insurance Center
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
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On this episode of "Let's Get Surety," we are joined by Caren Kelleher, the founder and CEO of Gold Rush Vinyl, a company acknowledged as one of the "Most Innovative Companies of 2020" by Fast Company magazine. Kelleher shares how she jumped, all in, and transitioned from being a music executive at Google to establishing her own vinyl record manufacturing company, riding on analytics and her passion for music and business. She shares what encouraged her to make the leap of faith into manufacturing as a small business owner. Delve into an engaging discussion on entrepreneurial hurdles and breakthroughs, capital sourcing through a U.S. Small Business Administration loan program and angel investors, the resilient vinyl industry's growth and future, and the indispensable role of trusted advisors on her journey. You will quickly perceive parallels in her story with those of countless surety clients!
With special guest:
Caren Kelleher, Founder & CEO, Gold Rush Vinyl
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
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On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with Corban Enns of Gallagher Affinity Insurance Solutions, shedding light on the complexities of working with state agencies and navigating through the nuances of bonding. Corban shares his journey getting into surety, discusses the CSBS and NMLS, and addresses the confusion about the surety product that you might encounter. Most importantly he shares stories and insight on how to be proactively advocating for the benefits and significance of the surety product with owners and obligees. Join us as we uncover the secrets to successful collaboration and advocacy in the world of surety.
With special guest:
Corban Enns, Area President & Director of Surety, Gallagher Affinity Insurance Solutions
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!
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Are you familiar with customs bonds? On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we welcome John Sheppard, of C.A. Shea and Company, to share his expertise in this specialized area of the surety industry. John provides insight into common terms, and bond types, and defines who qualifies as an importer. He also explains the role and guarantees of a customs bond, including cover for duties, taxes, and fees and compliance with federal regulations. From traveling abroad to enforcing intellectual property rights, you'll learn the surprising instances where customs bonds come into play. Get more information on NASBP's Commercial Surety School Level 1 and Level 2 classes, view the NASBP Virtual Seminar titled, "Anti-Dumping/Countervailing Duty: An Overview" and the recent blog post on customs guidelines updates.
With special guest:
John J. Sheppard II, Executive Vice President, C.A. Shea & Company, Inc.
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!
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Have you ever considered getting a CCIFP? On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Damien Strohmier, CCIFP of DSP Insurance Services as we explore the value of the CCIFP certification and how it can give producers, underwriters, and CPAs a competitive edge in the construction industry. We discuss the certification, its components, and what it means to earn your CCIFP, as well as the cost to take and maintain this certification. Check out the Surety Bond Quarterly article, "Certification Savvy" for more CCIFP stories, and find out more about the CCIFP!
With special guest:
Damien Strohmier, Surety Bond Producer, DSP Insurance Services
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!
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On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Todd Regan, a partner in the law firm of Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, to discuss the many pitfalls to be avoided when negotiating personal guarantees. Todd explains how even when a corporate officer or agent signs what appears to be a clear agreement to personally guarantee a corporate debt, a creditor may later be surprised when the court finds the guarantee unenforceable, leaving the creditor empty-handed. Listen in to learn more about this crucial and sometimes overlooked aspect of the construction and surety industries. Read Todd's article published in the Surety Bond Quarterly Summer 2023 issue that is mentioned during this episode, "Have an Ironclad Personal Guarantee From a Corporate Officer or Agent?" and listen to Todd's other Let’s Get Surety® episode "A Closer Look at Performance Bonds and Recent Court Rulings"!
With special guest:
Todd Regan, Partner, Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader in the surety industry? NASBP is excited to announce a new series of episodes exploring that question, titled "The Corner Office: Conversations with Surety Leaders." In this first episode, we are joined by surety industry leader Larry Taylor, President of Merchants Bonding Company, to talk about what it takes to lead an insurance company solely focused on surety bonding. Larry shares his background, including that he is a fourth-generation executive at Merchants Bonding Company, and relates the strategies and reasons behind the company's growth and how Merchants fosters its appealing company culture. Larry also speaks to opportunities and to challenges on the horizon for the surety industry as a whole and emphasizes the importance of sharing the value of the surety product more broadly. Check out the EY report prepared for SFAA, mentioned during this episode, titled The Economic Value of Surety Bonds.
With special guest:
Larry Taylor, President, Merchants Bonding Company
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!
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On this episode of Let’s Get Surety® we learn from sales and leadership expert Ryan Estis how to approach sales with confidence and the power of relationships. Ryan explains how good salespeople are made and not born, and what qualities are necessary for success - like staying curious and being an expert in a particular industry. He explains the importance of trust and creating emotional connection, as well as how preparation can make a huge impact! Listen to learn more about how to build strong and impactful relationships. Find out more information from Ryan in his recent book "Prepare for Impact."
With special guest:
Ryan Estis, Co-Founder, ImpactEleven
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!
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On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with three surety professionals--Brad Babcock of Babcock Solutions and Chair of NASBP’s Membership Committee, Nicole Campbell of Parrot Surety Services and Vice Chair of NASBP’s Membership Committee, and Jennifer Morales of Intact Insurance Surety Group. All discuss reasons for joining NASBP and the extensive membership benefits and resources offered, including ways in which employees can participate in association efforts to gain industry knowledge and skillsets. Please join them and discover their perspectives on why membership is so valuable. Find out more about becoming a member now! Or check out some of the many resources and opportunities mentioned during this episode:
NASBP SmartBrief NASBP Blog (specifically mentioned - Five Ways AI Is Likely To Affect The Construction Industry) NASBP White Papers, like the one mentioned on, Resident Agent Countersignature Laws NASBP Producers Communications Toolkit NASBP's Surety Schools NASBP's Suretylearn and NASBP Virtual Seminars NASBP's Online CE Courses NASBP's Suretylearn For Contractors and resources like 51 Questions Small Contractors Ask About Bonding NASBP's Annual Meetings and Fall Meetings NASBP Advocacy and Government Relations and the Federal Legislative Fly-in Join A NASBP Committee
With special guests:
Brad Babcock, Owner, Babcock Solutions, Nicole Campbell, CEO, Parrot Surety Services, and Jennifer Morales, Underwriting Consultant, Surety Specialty, Intact Insurance Surety Group
Hosted by:
Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP
Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!
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