The Independent Adjuster Podcast (IA Path)

In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Matt Epert, CEO of Crash Champions, the third-largest body shop chain in the nation, to uncover the future of collision repair and what it means for independent adjusters and estimators. Matt breaks down how he grew from a single shop to a 600-location powerhouse, and what that explosive growth means for YOU.

If you’re an independent adjuster or a collision estimator, this episode is packed with industry insights you can’t afford to miss. Matt dives into:

• The critical role of collision estimators and why they’re the backbone of the industry.
• How AI and technology are reshaping the future of estimating, and why your human skills will always be in demand.
• Why knowing both CCC One and Mitchell can give you a serious edge in your career.
• How to break into the industry with zero experience and make a name for yourself in a field desperate for skilled professionals.

Matt also shares behind-the-scenes details of major acquisitions, like the Service King deal, and how they’re creating even more opportunities for independent adjusters and collision estimators nationwide.

Whether you’re looking to expand your skills, break into the industry, or prepare for the AI-driven future of collision repair, Matt’s insights offer a roadmap to success. This is your chance to hear directly from one of the top leaders in collision repair about how to thrive in today’s market.

Chris Stanley and Mathew Allen of AdjusterTV dive deep into what it takes to make it big this hurricane season as an independent adjuster.

This 2 1/2hr special covers most things a new adjuster needs to know to be successful including a full hour of live Q&A!

The first part of the presentation covers the 4 keys.

Then Mathew Allen talks about his program and how he helps new IA's, followed by the Q&A session.

You don't want to miss this.

One of the worst things to happen to a new independent adjuster or appraiser is to be blacklisted.

This is where one or more IA Firms or an insurance company list that an individual should not be given any work... period.

If the new person truly offends them they may share with other firms their dislike for the individual and it affects you potentially throughout the industry!

This list is also known as the DO NOT CALL list and several other names.

I've seen this happen to people for only a few simple reasons...

I'm sure you don't want it to happen to you, so I'm going to share how you can avoid this dreadful fate that can stop your career from ever truly taking off.

First off, note that if a specific carrier "blacklists" you it doesn't mean your career is over.

This simply means you can't work for that specific carrier. I've had people in a panic that they were blacklisted or put on the do not call list for a large carrier worried they'd never be able to work again... but this isn't the case.

There are other insurance carriers and plenty of IA Firms you could work for.

Onto the list.

How to Avoid Being Blacklisted as an Independent Adjuster

Embark on a captivating expedition into the heart of the auto claims universe with John Gironda from SCA Claims Services. Max Olson navigates through John's enthralling story, illustrating SCA's extraordinary ascent from its modest beginnings to a colossal claims management leader. Travel with us as we unveil the intricate layers of an industry in flux, spotlighting the breakthroughs and ingenuity that have cemented SCA's standing. Marvel at the tales of transformation, where heavy-duty trucks and motorcycles become as familiar as property damage claims, all through the lens of a man whose career scaled from the ground floor of a body shop to the executive heights of SCA's operations.

In a parallel narrative thread, witness the empowering success stories of IA Path's graduates who have taken the independent adjusting world by storm. We celebrate their journeys from novices, uncertain of their skills in assignment writing, to confident proprietors and industry stalwarts, some even rising to embody IA Path itself. Their ascension, fostered by our nurturing mentorship and immersive hands-on approach, underscores the potent pathways available to those with the grit to carve out a niche in the ever-evolving independent adjusting landscape. Tune in for a session rich with personal victories and the collective progress shaping the future of insurance claims.

Embark on a journey through the financial intricacies of body shop estimating with the guidance of industry sage, Mark Passmore. Unlock the secrets to boosting your earning potential in this competitive field as Mark, my father-in-law and mentor, lays bare the pathway to climbing from starter salaries in the $40,000 range to commanding figures that can exceed $70,000 with time and finesse. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how embodying confidence and adaptability can make or break your job prospects and salary negotiations.

Venture further into the realm of compensation with a deep dive into the salary structures that govern the lives of body shop estimators. From understanding the baseline of entry-level wages to the allure of the six-figure echelons, we explore the myriad pay models that seasoned professionals navigate. Discover how salary plus commission, hourly wages, and straight salary can shape your career trajectory, and why strong negotiation skills are your ticket to leaving a lasting impression on future employers. Mark and I scrutinize these models alongside the per-piece payment method, delivering a comprehensive portrait of the remuneration landscape.

The final chapter of our discussion turns the spotlight on career transitions within the auto repair industry, particularly for those shifting from independent adjuster or appraiser roles to becoming body shop estimators. We outline the support systems and training resources available for those ready to pivot their career path. With Mark Passmore's expert commentary, we traverse the nuances of job placement, upskilling, and aligning career moves with your professional goals. Whether you're just turning the ignition or shifting gears in your auto estimating career, this episode is your roadmap to success.

Learn why becoming a body shop estimator may be a great decision in your auto estimating career.

While becoming an independent adjuster or appraiser is the perfect career fit for many, others may enjoy working at a shop better.

Some people may find that using their skill to write auto damage estimates as a collision estimator may be a better fit for them in their life.

Find out why with Chris Stanley's mentor, Mark Passmore, Collision Estimator Trainer and Mentor at IA Path.

Ever wondered how to decode the chaos of hail season into a successful stint as an independent adjuster? 

This episode is your essential guide to mastering hailstorm tracking and turning severe weather into promising job opportunities. With my firsthand experience and some nifty tools like CoreLogic and Stormersite.com, you'll learn how to pick out the hail events that scream potential work and those that are just nature's bluster. 

We'll explore why storms rated at level four or five are the ones to watch and how to scrutinize the data for prime deployment areas. Timing and location can be everything when it comes to evaluating the impact of a hailstorm. 

I'll also share personal anecdotes on interpreting the size of hail and its effects on property and auto claims. Remember to stay connected with us on LinkedIn where we share real-time updates and tips on seizing these atmospheric opportunities. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice that could be the silver lining to the next set of storm clouds.

LINKS MENTIONED
Corelogic - https://www.wvs.corelogic.com/wvs-ui/
Stormersite - https://www.stormersite.com/
NOAA Hail Prediction - https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/exper/day4-8/

Today I want to share some “One-Two Punch” strategies for independent adjusters.

(if you want to listen to the extended audio version of this newsletter you can check out our Independent Adjuster Podcast along with the 3

The One-Two Punch Strategy: Your Blueprint for Success

For many stepping into the realm of independent adjusting, the big question looms: How can I ensure a sustainable career without banking on a rare “home run”? 

It’s a valid concern, given the tales of adjusters who’ve hit the jackpot with $300,000 earnings in a mere three months. Tempting, isn’t it? 

But what happens if the grand slam never comes?

Here’s where the “One-Two Punch” strategy comes into play, offering a practical approach to carving out a successful, sustainable career in independent adjusting. 

Let’s dive in.

1. Building from the Ground Up

No career journey begins at the summit. 

Whether you dream of Hollywood fame or corporate success, everyone starts from the bottom. 

Independent adjusting is no different. It demands earning your stripes, building trust, and mastering your craft. This foundational phase is where you learn the ropes, explore opportunities, and lay down the groundwork for your future successes.

2. Embracing a Varied Approach

The heart of the One-Two Punch strategy lies in diversification. Rarely does one stick to a single task and thrive. The key? Embrace versatility. 

Here are the combinations that have proven successful for many in the field:

Daily Auto and Heavy Equipment Claims: Starting with auto claims paves your way into heavy equipment claims, with significantly higher payouts. 

This combo not only increases your earning potential but also enhances your skill set and marketability.

Daily Auto and Catastrophic (CAT) Hail Claims: Hail season can be a goldmine. 

By balancing daily auto claims with CAT deployments, you not only ensure a steady income but also open doors to lucrative opportunities during peak seasons.

Transitioning into Property Claims: For those with an eye on the long game, starting with auto claims and gradually moving into property claims can be a strategic move. 

Auto gives you consistent work while property offers a broader scope of work and, potentially, higher earnings.

​Chad Burnett, an IA Path graduate, accomplished this with flying colors. See his story by clicking HERE.​

3. Building a Multi-Faceted Career

The essence of sustainability in independent adjusting lies in not putting all your eggs in one basket. 

Diversify your portfolio by working with multiple companies across different claim types. 

This not only insulates you from market fluctuations but also broadens your horizons, ensuring a richer, more resilient career path.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Thriving Career

Understand that there are paths to sustainability. 

It’s about strategic planning, continuous learning, and embracing the opportunities the industry offers. 

Remember, your journey as an independent adjuster doesn't always have to be about chasing the elusive home run; it can be about about building a career that’s robust, rewarding, and resilient.

P.S. Curious about taking your adjusting career to the next level? 

Reach out, and let’s explore how the One-Two Punch strategy can work for you with our ​online certifications​ that get the 2-5 year experience requirement waived with over 40 IA Firms.

Have you ever found yourself stretched too thin, saying yes to everything and everyone? 

It's a trap many of us fall into, and in our latest podcast, we unpack the art of the gracious 'no.' With a candid recount of my own experiences and the wisdom imparted by my mentor, Brad Fancher, we delve into the necessity of setting boundaries for a healthier work-life equilibrium. As an Independent Adjuster who's been in the trenches, I guide you through an exercise that helps weigh the impact of decisions on the four life currencies: time, money, energy, and relationships. This isn't just about thriving in our careers; it's about crafting a life brimming with intention and fulfillment.

The idea of a dream life can often feel like a mirage—always on the horizon but never within grasp. But what if I told you that it's possible to live your dream life today? This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation to seize the day and find joy in the now. We discuss the unpredictability of life, the preciousness of time, and how setting goals and appreciating what we've already accomplished—like cherished family moments—can coexist harmoniously. 

Tune in and join us on a journey towards living intentionally, a life not defined by a checklist of dreams, but colored by the moments that truly count.