What's up everybody? Welcome to The Scratch Agency Podcast hosted by Scratch Agents for Scratch Agents. In this episode, Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald discuss their experiences with using AI in their insurance agencies. From AI receptionists to chatbots, they provide insights on how to approach implementing AI tools in your agency effectively. Tune in for valuable tips and real-world examples of utilizing AI technology in insurance.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction

(00:28) - Overcoming challenges to record the podcast

(01:18) - Discussing the use of AI in T5 and Sound Harbor Insurance

(02:16) - Understanding the importance of solving problems with AI tools

(03:40) - Choosing the right AI tool for your agency, RingCentral AI receptionist

(05:37) - Implementing the AI receptionist and initial feedback

(08:30) - Comparing AI tools tailored for insurance vs. general business

(10:23) - Tailoring AI tools to meet specific agency needs

(14:12) - Customizing chatbot workflows for sales and support

(16:54) - Budget-friendly options for implementing AI in your agency

(18:47) - Announcement about a free ticket to the Washington, DC meetup

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In this episode of the Scratch Agency podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome Elis Umana, owner of Connection Insurance. Elis shares her journey from starting as a CSR in her father's agency to becoming an agency owner. The conversation delves into the importance of efficiency in agency operations, the role of technology and automation, and how Elis utilizes AI to streamline processes. They discuss the challenges of handling cancellations, the choice of CRM and AMS systems, and the innovative use of AI in daily workflows. Elis emphasizes the value of trial and error in implementing new ideas and the importance of integrating prebuilt solutions to enhance productivity. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the transformative role of AI in enhancing agency operations, emphasizing the importance of using technology as a tool for efficiency rather than a replacement for human effort. They share insights on building a successful scratch agency, focusing on organic growth through referrals and the strategic use of AI tools to streamline processes. The discussion also covers team dynamics, the importance of hiring effectively, and lessons learned from their experiences in the insurance industry.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

(01:31) Elis Umana's Journey in the Insurance Industry

(04:12) Expectations vs. Reality in the Insurance Business

(05:51) Maximizing Efficiency in Agency Operations

(08:04) Handling Cancellations with Technology

(10:05) Choosing the Right CRM and AMS

(12:05) Implementing Automation in a Scratch Agency

(15:34) Utilizing AI in Daily Operations

(18:19) Innovations in AI for Insurance Workflows

(20:15) Harnessing AI for Efficiency

(23:40) Enhancing Agency Operations with AI

(27:28) Building a Successful Scratch Agency

(31:41) Team Dynamics and Growth Strategies

(36:39) Lessons Learned and Future Focus

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In this episode of The Scratch Agency Podcast, we sit down with David Watson, a leader in tech-driven insurance solutions, to dive deep into how agencies can modernize their proposal process, enhance client engagement, and scale effectively. From custom proposals to integrating tools like Advisor Evolved, QuoteVids, and Risk Advisor, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for agency owners and producers.

Whether you're looking to streamline workflows, personalize your proposals, or better explain coverage and deductibles to clients, this episode has you covered.

🕒 (00:00) - Introduction

🕒 (02:49) - Exploring custom proposals with Advisor Evolved

🕒 (06:11) - Optimizing video proposals with QuoteVids

🕒 (08:46) - Integrating Risk Advisor and Advisor Evolved

🕒 (12:00) - Enhancing client engagement through personalization

🕒 (14:49) - Streamlining the proposal process

🕒 (18:03) - The importance of password protection in proposals

🕒 (27:45) - Personalization of proposals

🕒 (30:28) - Understanding deductibles and coverage

🕒 (32:34) - The human touch in insurance

🕒 (34:13) - Creating agency proposals easily

🕒 (46:16) - Scaling and processes in insurance agencies

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In this episode of The Scratch Agency Podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome Whitney Ricci, president of Ritchie Insurance Group. Whitney shares her journey in the insurance industry, from starting as a captive agent to becoming an independent agency owner. She discusses the challenges and successes she faced, including the importance of vision, hiring strategies, and adapting to market changes. Whitney emphasizes the value of building a strong team and the lessons learned throughout her career, providing insights for new agents and those looking to scale their businesses.

Chapters

⏰ (00:00) - Introduction to the Scratch Agency Podcast

⏰ (01:40) - Whitney Ricci's Journey in Insurance

⏰ (06:21) - Lessons from the Early Days of Building an Agency

⏰ (11:43) - The Importance of Vision and Goal Setting

⏰ (15:38) - Navigating the Hiring Process and Team Dynamics

⏰ (23:55) - Transforming Hiring Practices

⏰ (31:12) - Scaling the Agency: Key Success Factors

⏰ (36:57) - Lessons from Challenges and Adaptation

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In this episode of the Scratch Agency podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome James Monreale, founder of SoundRisk LLC. The conversation covers James's journey in the insurance industry, the importance of building strong relationships with wholesalers, and the niche of builders risk insurance. They discuss the significance of good submissions and explore the complexities of terrorism coverage in insurance. The episode emphasizes the value of communication and collaboration in the insurance field, particularly for scratch agents.

🕒 00:00 – Introduction

🕒 02:24 – The Journey from Underwriting to MGA

🕒 05:53 – Understanding the Role of Wholesalers

🕒 08:57 – Building Strong Relationships in Insurance

🕒 11:51 – Navigating Builders Risk Insurance

🕒 15:09 – The Importance of Quality Submissions

🕒 18:05 – Exploring Terrorism Insurance Products

🕒 21:08 – Future Directions and Closing Thoughts

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Welcome back to Episode 114 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this solo episode, we dive into some exciting updates and insights for agency owners and entrepreneurs! Don’t miss out!

 🕒 (00:00) – Introduction

 🕒 (01:24) – Virtual Intelligence Webinar

 🕒 (03:34) – The Importance of Virtual Employees in Today’s Market

 🕒 (05:10) –  Scratch Agency Meetup Announcement

 🕒 (10:00) – Event Details & Video Production

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Welcome back to episode 113 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Scott Cox to discuss his journey in the insurance industry, the power of community engagement, and how building relationships with local schools can lead to long-term business growth. Scott also shares insights on working in a family business, overcoming challenges as an agency owner, and strategies to focus on revenue and growth.  

🕒 (00:00) - Introduction  

🕒 (01:46) - Scott Cox’s Journey in Insurance  

🕒 (04:54) - Building Relationships with Local Schools  

🕒 (10:48) - Lead Generation Strategies in Education  

🕒 (16:11) - The Importance of Community Engagement  

🕒 (21:44) - Working with Family Business  

🕒 (25:53) - Challenges of an Agency Owner  

🕒 (30:16) - Focus on Revenue and Growth  

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Welcome back to Episode 112 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Mitch Gibson to explore how AI is transforming the insurance industry. From task management to content creation, Mitch shares insights on leveraging AI tools to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and empower agents. Whether you're just starting with AI or looking to optimize your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways!  

🕒 (00:00) - Introduction  

🕒 (02:49) - Empowering Agents with AI Technology  

🕒 (06:06) - Task Management and AI Integration  

🕒 (08:50) - Content Creation and AI Utilization  

🕒 (12:04) - Organizational Strategies for AI Implementation  

🕒 (15:14) - Training Employees on AI Tools  

🕒 (17:57) - The Future of AI in Insurance  

🕒 (21:05) - Closing Thoughts and Resources  

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Welcome back to Episode 111 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Zack Gould to talk about the challenges of launching an insurance agency, building a strong team, and the lessons learned from starting over. Whether you're a new agency owner or looking to refine your leadership skills, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!  

🕒  (00:00)- Introduction  

🕒  (02:34) - Common Challenge for New Agencies  

🕒  (07:46) - Leadership & Getting the Most Out of People  

🕒  (15:05) - Hiring the Right First Employee  

🕒  (21:20) - Building Relationships & Networking  

🕒  (34:27) - Starting Over: Lessons Learned  

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Welcome back to Episode 110 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Michael Cruz to break down the essentials of sales success! From pre-qualifying leads to tracking data and scaling your business, Michael shares his insights on building a strong and consistent sales process.

🕒 (00:00) - Introduction

🕒 (03:09) - The Importance of Pre-Qualifying Leads

🕒 (05:59) - Understanding The Three Buckets in Sales

🕒 (08:55) - Tracking and Analyzing Sales Data

🕒 (12:10) - Establishing a Consistent Sales Process

🕒 (15:03) - Overcoming Challenges in Scaling

🕒 (18:08) - The Journey of Growth and Learning

🕒 (21:04) - Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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See you next time!