Insurance Town

In this engaging live podcast episode from Memphis, Heath Sheeran and Riley Talbot discuss a variety of topics ranging from music and culture to the intricacies of the insurance industry. Riley shares his journey from a college athlete to a successful insurance professional, emphasizing the importance of technology and human interaction in the field. The conversation also touches on the challenges of building a business from scratch and offers valuable advice for agents and carriers navigating the evolving landscape of insurance.

• Building a business from scratch requires a clear vision and adaptability.
• Technology should enhance, not replace, human interaction in insurance.
• Long-term sustainability is key for both agents and insurers.
• A balance between technology and personal touch is essential for growth.
• Riley emphasizes the importance of real-time data in decision-making.
• The insurance industry is evolving, and staying ahead requires innovation.
• Personal interests, like music and food, can enrich professional conversations.

Chapters

00:00
Welcome to Insurance Town

02:03
Exploring Music and Culture

04:54
Riley's Journey in Insurance

09:56
Building a Business from Scratch

12:52
The Role of Technology in Insurance

20:08
Advice for Agents and Carriers

22:50
Fun and Personal Insights

In this conversation, Matt Waxman shares his journey from a marketing major to a successful figure in the insurance industry, discussing his experiences in hospitality, insurance claims, and marketing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the property market, particularly in challenging areas like Florida and Texas, and offers valuable advice for agents navigating these tough times. The discussion also touches on the evolution of his company, Alchemy Insurance Solutions, and the opportunities within the builders risk space. In this conversation, Matt Waxman and Heath Shearon delve into the complexities of Builders Risk insurance and the emerging cannabis insurance market. They discuss the importance of building strong relationships with underwriters, understanding client needs, and the necessity of educating producers on these specialized insurance products. The dialogue emphasizes the need for agents to develop pipelines for Builders Risk and the lucrative opportunities within the cannabis sector, highlighting the evolving nature of these industries and the role of Alchemy Insurance Solutions in providing comprehensive coverage solutions.

takeaways

• Matt Waxman has a diverse background in marketing, hospitality, and insurance.
• He transitioned from a marketing major to a career in insurance after exploring various fields.
• Waxman emphasizes the importance of building relationships in the builders risk market.
• The property market presents challenges, but also opportunities for agents willing to adapt.
• Alchemy Insurance Solutions focuses on solving pain points in the insurance market.
• Understanding the needs of clients is crucial for success in insurance.
• Waxman encourages agents to prepare thoroughly when submitting risks to underwriters.
• Flexibility in underwriting is essential in today's property market.
• The builders risk space can lead to long-term relationships with clients.
• Agents should not give up on finding coverage solutions for their clients. The likelihood of declination increases without proper partnerships.
• Understanding Builders Risk is crucial for effective insurance solutions.
• Building relationships with underwriters is essential for agents.
• Providing detailed information to underwriters enhances approval chances.
• Agents must sell both to clients and carriers effectively.
• The cannabis insurance market presents significant opportunities.
• Education and webinars are vital for agents to succeed in niche markets.
• Direct access to underwriters fosters better communication and solutions.
• Agents should be transparent about their knowledge in niche markets.
• The insurance landscape is evolving, requiring adaptability from agents.

05:52
Matt Waxman's Journey to Insurance

10:32
Cornerstone to Alchemy: Evolution of a Company

18:00
Navigating the Property Market Challenges

20:06
Advice for Agents in a Tough Market

21:54
Navigating the Builders Risk Landscape

28:10
Understanding the Role of Underwriters

32:32
Building a Pipeline for Builders Risk

35:53
Exploring the Cannabis Insurance Market

40:07
The Science Behind Cannabis Insurance

45:53
Alchemy Insurance Solutions: A Comprehensive Overview

My amazing Sponsors;

Smart Choice
Canopy Connect
Olde School Marketing 

In this conversation, Daniel Yoo discusses the inception of Finmate AI, a tool designed to enhance the efficiency of financial advisors by automating note-taking and data entry. He shares his journey from being a financial advisor to creating a solution that addresses common pain points in the industry. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in financial services, the importance of maintaining human relationships, and the future of in-person meetings in a technology-driven world. In this conversation, Daniel Yoo discusses the transformative role of AI in the financial services industry, emphasizing the importance of human relationships in client interactions. He addresses data security concerns, the integration of AI with CRM systems, and the evolving client experience in a technology-driven world. Daniel also shares insights on how financial advisors can learn from each other and adapt to the changing landscape, ultimately highlighting the need for personalized service in an increasingly automated environment.
takeaways

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background
02:46
The Birth of Finmate AI
06:01
The Role of AI in Financial Services
09:05
Enhancing Human Relationships with Technology
12:05
Optimizing Workflows with AI
15:03
The Future of In-Person Meetings
18:50
The Role of AI in Financial Services
21:29
Data Security and Privacy Concerns
25:51
Integrating with CRM Systems
29:30
Learning from Financial Advisors
29:59
Enhancing the Client Experience
34:50
Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this engaging conversation, Ben Morrow shares his journey from a nomadic childhood to his current role in the insurance industry. He discusses the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding career, the impact of personal loss on his wellness journey, and the unique bond he shares with his identical twin. Ben emphasizes the importance of trust and resilience in navigating life's ups and downs, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to personal growth and spirituality. In this conversation, Ben Morrow discusses the innovative approach of Claims Concierge in the insurance industry, focusing on enhancing the claims process for policyholders. He emphasizes the importance of building trust between agents and clients, the role of contractors, and the need for a grounded presence during claims. Morrow also addresses the challenges faced in the industry, including the need for better communication and follow-through, and highlights the significance of vulnerability in fostering relationships and providing support during difficult times.

Chapters

00:00
Spring Break and Family Life

03:00
Ben Morrow's Journey: From Childhood to Career

06:04
The Impact of Family and Personal Loss

08:55
The Twin Connection: Identity and Individuality

11:51
Wellness and Spirituality: A Lifelong Journey

14:59
Navigating Life's Challenges: Trusting the Process

20:59
Entering the Insurance Industry: A New Chapter

25:22
Claims Concierge: A New Approach to Insurance Claims

31:51
The Role of the Agent: Building Trust and Relationships

36:48
Navigating the Claims Process: A Grounded Presence

41:26
Overcoming Industry Challenges: Building Trust and Relationships

47:54
Leading with Vulnerability: The Human Side of Claims

Sponsors:
Smart Choice
Canopy Connect

In this episode of Insurance Town, Mayor sits down with Paul Neuberger, Best Selling Author of the book: Secrets to Cold Call Success and the founder of C-Suite for Christ, an incredible community that brings together executives with a shared Christian faith. Paul discusses a variety of important topics, including the often-overlooked challenges faced by C-suite executives, the struggles of cold calling, and he tells us of the unfortunate, unhealthy habits in the lives many high-level professionals face in their careers.

Throughout the conversation, Paul dives into:

• The Importance of Faith in Leadership: How Christians can maintain integrity and faith in the corporate world, even when facing tough decisions.
• Cold Calling: The challenges and strategies for effective cold calling, especially in the world of business development.
• The Health of C-Suite Executives: The often-hidden toll leadership can take on executives, both physically and emotionally, and the importance of maintaining balance.
• The Mission of C-Suite for Christ: Paul shares the heart behind his organization, its mission, and how it’s transforming the way leaders approach faith and business.
• Common Struggles for Christians in the Corporate World: What it looks like to integrate one’s Christian faith with corporate responsibilities and how to stay true to values in an often secular business environment.

Whether you're an executive, a Christian business professional, or someone looking to understand how faith intersects with leadership in the modern world, this episode will offer valuable insights into navigating corporate life with integrity and purpose.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

• Smart Choice: Helping independent agencies grow and succeed through access to top carriers and cutting-edge tools.
• Canopy Connect: Simplifying the insurance quoting process with a smarter, quicker way to gather customer data.
• Olde School Marketing: Your trusted partner in creative marketing strategies designed to help your agency stand out in a crowded market.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Let us know your thoughts on the episode and how you integrate faith into your leadership journey!

in this weeks episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor himself brings you insights and strategies to help grow your agency! In this special Town Hall episode, we are joined by Bradley Flowers of Portal Insurance. Bradley is a master at building referral relationships with lenders and realtors, and today he’s sharing his game-changing strategies with our community.

If you’ve ever felt stuck working with realtors who don’t close deals or lenders who don’t deliver, this episode is for you! Bradley has cracked the code on how to identify and partner with the right referral sources—and he’s giving us the full playbook.

Key Takeaways:

• Stop Wasting Time: How to avoid partnering with lenders and realtors who don’t deliver.
• Data-Driven Referrals: How Referral Radar can identify high-value partners already sending business to insurance agents.
• Strategic Integrations: How to plug Bradley’s system directly into your CRM/AMS to streamline follow-ups and maintain relationships.
• Predictive Analytics: Learn how to use real-time data to find lenders and agents that are most likely to work well with your agency.
• Relationship Building: Tips for long-term success in leveraging referral partners to grow your book of business.

Why You Should Listen:

Bradley Flowers has found a way to make referral partnerships strategic rather than random. This episode will teach you how to work smarter, not harder—so you can spend less time chasing and more time closing deals.

Episode Resources:

• Learn more about Bradley Flowers and his work at Portal Insurance
• Check out Referral Radar to discover the best referral sources in your area
• Missed the live Town Hall? Catch the full replay here: [Insert Link]

Connect with Us:

• Follow Insurance Town on [LinkedIn]
• Subscribe to the podcast on [Apple Podcasts], [Spotify], and [Google Podcasts]
• Got feedback or want to suggest a guest? Reach out at [Insert Contact Info]

Special Thanks:

Big shoutout to our sponsors for making this Town Hall possible:

• SMART CHOICE – Helping agents grow their business with the right partnerships.
• Canopy Connect – The easy way to gather insurance data.
• Olde School Marketing – Personal and powerful branding for your agency.

Tune in, take notes, and let’s grow your referral network the right way!
 Enjoy the episode!

In this re-aired episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor sits down with former NFL player turned inspirational speaker and business coach, Marcus Ogden. This is one of our most powerful and motivating conversations, and we wanted to bring it back for those who missed it—or need to hear it again.

Marcus shares his incredible journey from playing in the NFL to hitting rock bottom, working as a custodian for $8/hour, and ultimately rising again to become a highly sought-after speaker and leadership coach. His story is raw, real, and absolutely packed with lessons for agency owners, producers, and anyone striving to lead with purpose.

🔥 In this episode, you’ll hear:

• What Marcus learned from legendary NFL coaches like Jack Del Rio and Jeff Fisher
• The “PIVOT” mindset and how it applies directly to the insurance industry
• His rock-bottom moment—and how it became the fuel for his next chapter
• Why ego can be your downfall, and how humility and character build lasting trust
• Practical leadership advice that applies whether you're in the back office or the corner office

Sponsors:
A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible—and for continuing to support the Insurance Town Podcast!

Smart Choice: Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs.

Canopy Connect: Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes.

Olde School Marketing: For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game!

In this episode of Insurance Town, host Heath Shearon sits down with Kevin Koone, a well-respected insurance professional with a fascinating career journey. Kevin shares how he transitioned from aspiring to work in the medical field to making his way through GIS mapping, janitorial work, and eventually finding his place in the independent insurance space.

Heath and Kevin discuss:;
✅ The challenges of commission-based sales and how he navigated early struggles.
✅ High-net-worth clients—how he got into that niche and what makes them different.
✅ How to handle tough conversations about rate increases and policy changes.
✅ The importance of empathy, education, and building lasting client relationships.
✅ The evolving role of leadership in independent agencies and the difference between personal and commercial lines service styles.

Kevin also shares personal insights on faith, family, and the value of time in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting, this episode is packed with real-life lessons and industry wisdom.

Sponsors:
A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible!

Smart Choice: Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs.

Canopy Connect: Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes.

Olde School Marketing: For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game!

🎧 Tune in now and let’s talk insurance! 🚀

In this exciting episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor, sits down with Ricky Brito of Agent Brokers United (ABU) to talk all things networking, trade shows, and building relationships in the insurance industry. Ricky shares his journey from manual labor to becoming a key player in the insurance event space and how ABU is changing the game for agents and brokers nationwide.

We also take a deep dive into the ABU National Insurance Trade Show Convention coming up in Las Vegas at Planet Hollywood on April 24-27, 2025. Ricky lays out what attendees can expect—from the Chris DeJune Memorial Golf Tournament to a packed lineup of keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and after-hours events.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ The Power of Networking – Why building relationships is key to success in the insurance industry.
✔️ ABU Trade Show Breakdown – Everything you need to know about the upcoming ABU National Insurance Trade Show Convention in Las Vegas.
✔️ Maximizing Your Conference Experience – Pro tips on how to make the most of your time at trade shows and industry events.
✔️ The Importance of Follow-Up – How to turn new connections into lasting business opportunities.
✔️ The Fun Side of Conferences – From golf tournaments to exclusive after-hours parties at the Wynn Las Vegas, there’s more to industry events than just business.

Event Details & Registration:
📅 ABU National Insurance Trade Show Convention
📍 Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas
🗓 April 24-27, 2025
🎟 Register at: ABUunited.com
💰 Use Promo Code: HEATH for 50% off registration!

Sponsors:
A big thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible!

🎯 Smart Choice – Looking for a great partner to help grow your agency? Check out Smart Choice for all your agency needs.
📊 Canopy Connect – Want to simplify the way you collect client information? Visit UseCanopy.com/heath to see how Canopy Connect can help streamline your agency’s processes.
📢 Olde School Marketing – For all your marketing and promotional needs, Olde School Marketing has you covered. Reach out today to level up your marketing game!

💡 Connect with Us:
🔗 Follow Ricky Brito on LinkedIn & Social Media
🎙 Subscribe to Insurance Town Podcast for more great episodes!

🚀 See you in Las Vegas!