Episodes
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In this episode, James discusses how RISKWELL became a top provider of real estate insurance nationwide. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Ideal number of niches for agencies (3-5) to balance focus and market stability.
Criteria for choosing a niche: industry knowledge, sufficient prospects, and revenue potential.
Key revenue drivers: building ownership, workforce, vehicles, tools/equipment, and liability needs.
Importance of content creation and building credibility as a thought leader.
Effective market entry strategies: live events, webinars, and partnerships.
Challenges of serving real estate investors and the need for deep industry expertise.
Emphasis on continuous learning to prevent E&O claims and build client trust. -
In this episode, James talks about breaking into commercial insurance, focusing on actionable steps and insights drawn from his own experience. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Breaking into commercial insurance offers far higher revenue potential than personal lines
Choose a single niche to focus on and develop expertise in that industry
Network with thought leaders and decision-makers to build credibility
Use empathetic, client-focused communication instead of typical sales pitches
Create SEO-optimized content targeted to your chosen industry niche
Leverage industry partnerships to secure relevant carrier contracts
Next week: James will cover how his agency dominated the real estate insurance niche -
Missing episodes?
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In this episode, James covers how to handle attacks on your business, whether from negative reviews, social media comments, or competitors. James shares his experience and offers tips on maintaining credibility and improving processes to prevent future issues.
Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
The importance of closing the loop in every client process
Learning valuable lessons from difficult or unreasonable clients
Why proactive communication is key to preventing attacks
How to handle attacks while maintaining professionalism
Extracting additional revenue by targeting low-hanging fruit within existing relationships
The role of accountability in minimizing mistakes and misunderstandings -
In this episode, James explores how to prepare for innovation in your business. Learn how to identify areas for improvement, address bottlenecks, and implement effective systems to stay ahead of the competition.
Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Understanding the need for innovation and how to get ready for it
The importance of identifying what’s working and what needs improvement
Breaking down bottlenecks vs. pain points
Using a roadmap to plan future innovations
Evaluating and embracing new technology strategically
Internal accountability and continuous improvement -
In this episode, James introduces a fresh format for the Agency Freedom Podcast. He reflects on the podcast’s journey and shares plans for more concise, value-packed episodes moving forward.
Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
How the podcast started by helping agents transition from captive to independent
Expansion to cover a wider range of topics like sales, marketing, and operations
The shift from long interviews to shorter, more focused episodes
Future episodes will feature real-life examples, lessons, and practical advice
The new format will feature 10-20 minute episodes focused on delivering quick, actionable insights
Encouraging audience input to shape future topics
Preview of the next episode: “We Suck at Storytelling.” -
In this episode, James talks with Elis Umana, Insurance Specialist at Conexion Insurance Agency. To learn more about Conexion Insurance Agency, visit https://www.conexionins.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Elis's start in the insurance industry at 18, working in her father’s agency, and later launching her own agency.
How online communities and Facebook groups helped Elis adopt new technologies, like AI, to grow her business.
Implementation of GAIL, an AI voice technology, and Elis’s role in helping other agencies customize and utilize it.
Educating Hispanic contractors on proper insurance coverage using real-world claim scenarios to overcome cultural barriers.
The influence of Elis’s father on her business approach and the value of networking.
The importance of continuing education, such as pursuing the CIC designation, in professional growth.
The growing presence of younger professionals and women in the insurance industry, and the impact of diversity on innovation. -
In this episode, James talks with Maverick Pitchford, Principal Agent at Bison Ridge Insurance.
Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Maverick's transition from a captive agent to launching his independent agency.
The unique branding philosophy of Bison Ridge and its commitment to tackling challenges head-on.
Discussion on the importance of community involvement and how personal relationships influence business operations.
Maverick’s approach to customer service and adapting to clients' needs in a modern digital landscape.
The role of technology and AI in enhancing the efficiency and reach of insurance services.
Challenges faced in maintaining growth momentum and strategies for continuous personal and professional development.
The impact of mentorship and community support in navigating the complexities of the insurance industry. -
In this episode, James talks with Richard Sweet, Owner of Vantage Point Risk Partners. To learn more about Vantage Point Risk Partners, visit https://www.vantagepointrisk.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Richard's journey from engineering to owning an insurance agency
Challenges of operating within the captive insurance model and the shift to independence
The growth and scaling of Richard's insurance agency
Importance of selecting the right team members and leveraging individual strengths
Richard's approach to business management within the insurance industry -
In this episode, James talks with Andy Neary, Founder of Complete Game Consulting. To learn more about Complete Game Consulting, visit https://andyneary.com/complete-game-consulting. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Andy's transition from professional baseball to the insurance industry
The impact of moving to Colorado on Andy's career and personal brand development
Strategies for building credibility in the insurance industry
The role of content and public speaking in establishing thought leadership
Overcoming personal challenges and fears to succeed professionally
Innovations and trends in the insurance industry post-COVID
The importance of addressing real problems and making it easy for clients to engage -
In this episode, James talks with Cameron Pechia, Partner at All Lines Associates. To learn more about All Lines Associates visit https://alllinesinsure.com/. To learn more about Valley Trucking Insurance visit https://www.valleytruckinginsurance.com/. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Cameron's personal motivations, including his family and involvement in community sports
Challenges and opportunities faced in the early stages of Cameron’s insurance career
Evolution into specializing in trucking and transportation insurance
The complexities and unique requirements of insurance in specialized sectors like trucking
Strategies for proper client engagement and risk assessment in the insurance business
Reflections on industry changes and the impact of technology on insurance practices -
In this episode, James talks with Stephen Turnbull, President of T5 Insurance Services, and Shawn Fitzgerald, Owner of Sound Harbor Insurance. To learn more about T5 Insurance Services, and Sound Harbor Insurance, visit https://www.t5insurance.com https://www.soundharborinsurance.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Shawn's transition from college to the military, and eventually into the insurance industry
The significance of networking in finding opportunities and building a career
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on business strategies and client interactions
Stephen's background in a family-run insurance agency and his decision to start his own agency
Strategies for recruitment and team building in the modern workplace
Utilization of social media for recruitment and client engagement
Experiences and challenges of hosting a podcast on insurance and entrepreneurship -
In this episode, James talks with Jackson Fregeau, CEO of Quandri. To learn more about Quandri, visit https://www.quandri.io. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Jackson's background and the founding story of Quandri
The disruptive potential of generative AI in various industries
Challenges of integrating AI into traditional business models
The role of data in enhancing business operations
The importance of balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur
How Quandri leverages RPA and OCR technology for agency automation
Future opportunities and trends in AI and automation for businesses -
In this episode, James talks with Ty Harris, Co-Founder and CEO of Openly. To learn more about Openly, visit https://www.openly.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Overview of Openly's growth from startup to major player in the insurance industry
Expansion into new states and increase in agency partnerships
Adapting business strategies to deal with rising industry costs and catastrophic events
The role of technology in managing and scaling insurance operations
Effective leadership and maintaining company culture in a fully remote environment
Navigating through the complexities of the insurance market during economic downturns
Strategic decisions in response to market conditions and regulatory environments
Future plans for Openly and its approach to expanding service offerings and geographical reach -
In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on January 6th, 2023, James welcomes Bradley Flowers and Scott Howell, co-hosts of the Insurance Guys Podcast. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Episode Highlights:
Bradley discusses The Insurance Guys Podcast, how it got started, and what the podcast's hook is. (6:04)
Bradley believes that people should create content around their passions, and that podcasting is a great way to do it. (9:51)
Scott and Bradley explain that consistency is the key to having more than 300 episodes and that skipping an episode for a week is a good litmus test to see how many people are waiting for that show to drop. (13:29)
Bradley mentions that he and Scott often batch record, putting them months ahead of schedule. (16:41)
Scott explains that his sole focus is to provide outstanding material every Wednesday at 6:00 a.m. (27:23)
According to James, many absolute rockstars are hidden in plain sight, and Vonda Copeland, who has 9 offices with over 50 employees, is one of them. (30:26)
Bradley explains that, from a content viewpoint, it is becoming easier for non-content producers to generate content, therefore if you want to be an elite content generator, you must elevate your game. (50:14)
James commends the people of Florida for passing special session legislation that limits the assignment of benefits. (1:03:51) -
In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on July 22nd, 2022, James talks with Troy Smith, Retired Detective and Hostage Negotiator with the San Antonio Police Department. Troy is now with the Black Swan Group. To learn more about Black Swan Group, Visit https://www.blackswanltd.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Episode Highlights:
Troy shares his background story and how he ended up joining the San Antonio Police Department as an officer and later as a hostage negotiator. (5:19)
Troy discusses what led him to the Black Swan Group where hostage negotiation skills are applied in a business environment. (6:28)
Troy shares the story of a powerful moment when he gave his badge to a young boy with terminal cancer who wanted to be in law enforcement one day. (9:06)
Troy explains his day-to-day setup as a Black Swan coach and facilitator. (19:40)
Troy shares that the foundation skills as part of the training are labeling, mirroring, and dynamic silence. (22:57)
Troy shares how to use dynamic silence as a way to stay in the conversation and continue to get the information that you need. (29:54)
Troy explains that if you are in any kind of negotiation, you have to learn to be patient and be willing to commit to it. (32:15)
Troy discusses why they limit their coaching sessions to 1 or 2 per day. (41:40)
Troy shares how Chris spends his time on a day-to-day basis as he runs the business and makes important decisions. (45:16)
Troy advises the listeners not to get consumed with how everybody is doing down the road, and instead, just give their best at the moment. (47:41)
Key Quotes:
"If you don't use the silence to give them the time, you start over talking, you start talking over them. And before they can give you an answer, you've already moved on to the next thing." - Troy Smith
“If you're in a negotiation, you have to learn to be patient. This is something that you have to be willing to commit to.” -Troy Smith
"When you start saying it’s is all about you, it's not about them any longer. And most people are going to get turned off by that." - Troy Smith -
In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on May 20th, 2022, James talks with Cory Schnabel, Agency Principal at KC Insurance Group in Kansas City, MO. To learn more about KC Insurance Group, visit https://www.hubinternational.com.Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Episode Highlights:
Cory talks about how he got started in the insurance industry. (5:27)
Cory shares that he bought his first Allstate agency in 2010. (6:42)
Cory how he started KC Insurance Group and what helped him to get contracts with several carriers. (12:51)
Cory shares that his referral partners are one of the secrets to his success. (20:46)
Cory explains how he connects with his referral partners. (21:36)
Cory shares his best practices for establishing value and connection with a channel partner. (26:03)
Cory discusses what he believes works best with channel partners in 2022 and beyond. (30:37)
Cory explains that most people, perhaps 90% of lenders, agents, wealth planners, CPAs, and insurance brokers, have no idea where a large portion of their business comes from. (32:39)
Cory shares his thoughts on what he learned from IAOA. (37:55)
Cory discusses some of his decisions that he would alter if given the chance. (51:57)
Cory believes if you trust in yourself and bet on yourself, you'll be alright. (54:38) -
In this "Greatest Hits" episode, originally aired on June 10th, 2022, James talks with Dr. Billy Willams, CEO of Inspire A Nation. To learn more about Inspire A Nation, visit https://www.inspireanation.org. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Dr. Billy Williams talks about his background and what led him to start Inspire A Nation. (5:23)
Dr. Billy Williams shares that he does not worry about a person's mindset, but what is important is discipline. (10:27)
Dr. Billy Williams explains that when he chooses an agency management system, he makes sure that it does 90% of everything he needs. (20:03)
Dr. Billy Williams mentions that he is a step-by-step guy, and gives out the steps he is guided through on a normal workday. (24:34)
Dr. Billy Williams explains that the reason most people won't follow a process is that they don't take the time to create a process. (30:07)
Dr. Billy Williams elaborates on common weaknesses that a lot of people have. (38:17)
Dr. Billy Williams explains that he is not a cold caller type of guy, but a big referral type of guy. (44:31)
Dr. Billy Williams shares that one thing agents can do to make themselves experts is to understand that insurance is all about claims. (46:43)
Dr. Billy Williams explains the importance of having enough of a niche and knowledge in your demographics. (49:18)
Dr. Billy Williams elaborates on the importance of people getting back to the process and understanding assurances about the claim. (56:39) -
In this episode, James talks with Brandon Rondon, Owner of Rondon Insurance Services. To learn more about Rondon Insurance Services, visit https://www.rondonins.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Transition from MMA to insurance
Approach to sales and client relationships
Insights on leadership and team building
Effective use of feedback within teams
Strategies for personal and professional growth
The role of constructive criticism in development
Integrating new technologies and systems in business operations -
In this episode, James talks with Sandra Gebhardt, an Online Marketing Strategist. To learn more about Sandra Gebhardt Digital Marketing, visit https://sandragebhardt.com. Visit https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed.
Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom
Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better.
Key Topics:
Sandra's entry into the insurance industry and transition to marketing
Importance of personal branding in marketing
Using organic social media to enhance business growth
Tips for optimizing marketing strategies and community involvement
Benefits of a Fractional Chief Marketing Officer
Challenges faced by insurance agents and strategies for success - Show more
