In this episode of Power Producer Shop Talk, host David Carothers interviews Pam Seidler, the only female contestant in Season 3 of The Protégé. Pam shares her diverse background, from working in radio and TV to oxygen sales and a stint in the captive insurance world with AAA. Now, she's diving headfirst into commercial insurance, eager to prove that being new to the industry is not a disadvantage but an opportunity to learn without bad habits.

David and Pam discuss the importance of mentorship, finding the right agency culture, and why starting directly in the middle market can be more beneficial than cutting teeth on small commercial accounts. Pam also opens up about her niche focus on the pet industry and gathering places (coffee shops, etc.), leveraging her past experiences to build a unique book of business.

Key Highlights:

Breaking into the Industry

Pam shares her winding career path, which included stops at Fox News, tech startups, and medical sales, before a chance encounter on a plane planted the seed for an insurance career. After gaining experience as a captive agent, she made the leap to the independent side, drawn by the freedom and limitless potential of commercial insurance.

The "New Producer" Advantage

David argues that hiring producers with zero insurance experience is often better than hiring veterans with bad habits. Pam embodies this "blank slate" advantage, approaching the competition with a hunger to learn and no preconceived notions about how things should be done. This mindset allows her to absorb coaching and implement new strategies rapidly.

Niche Focus: Pets & Gathering Places

Drawing on her early career aspirations with Petco and PetSmart, Pam discusses her strategy to target the pet industry—from groomers to boarding facilities—as a primary niche. She also plans to focus on "gathering places" like coffee shops, utilizing her natural ability as a connector to build relationships in these community hubs.

Finding the Right Agency Culture

David advises Pam (and listeners) on how to interview an agency. He suggests bold moves like asking to speak with top and bottom producers, as well as current and former clients, to get a true picture of the agency's deliverables and support structure. This transparency is key to finding a long-term home.

The Power of Spousal Support

David shares a personal story about how his wife's unwavering support was the catalyst for launching Florida Risk Partners. He emphasizes that a strong support system at home is crucial for any producer navigating the ups and downs of a sales career, a philosophy he integrates into his Producers in Paradise event.