Collabcast by IAOA with Captain Dave Jackson

Don Shampine of Michigan Insurance Group


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Don shares with us how he started as a commercial lines producer, became agency owner, and how his agency has transitioned to now 50/50 personal lines and commercial lines mix of business.  Don also spends time serving on his state Big I association board and helping young agents enter the insurance industry.


Episode Highlights:

  • Don shares his experience as a producer, including his first day in the industry, his sales strategy, and his initial lack of knowledge about insurance. (3:45)

  • Don explains the importance of getting designations in the insurance industry, specifically the CIC and CRM designations. (16:15)

  • Don shares how he built processes to better understand the risks he was quoting and how he developed his own business survey to gain a greater understanding of risk. (20:17)

  • Don explains the importance of being involved in the legislative process of the insurance industry and how it can impact the success of independent agencies. (25:06)

  • Don shares his insights on how to deal with the hard market in the insurance industry, including exhibiting patience, building plans to address busy work, and focusing on growth opportunities. (41:08)


  • Key Quote:

    • “Part of being good at our job is to shift when the industry shifts, and that's what we're dealing with right now is an industry shift. And we all have the capability of succeeding during this time period. It's just going to be our mindset, our mentality and the effort we put in while things get tough.” - Don Shampine


    • Resources Mentioned:

      • Don Shampine, CIC, CRM LinkedIn

      • Michigan Insurance Group

      • Reach out to Dave Jackson

      • Independent Agency Owners Alliance | IAOA

      • ...more
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        Collabcast by IAOA with Captain Dave JacksonBy Captain Dave Jackson