Continuing our series featuring cover agents from Rough Notes Magazine, I welcome Russ Castle to the show. Russ is a third-generation insurance broker and a dedicated member of the Unstoppable Profit Producers. He shares his transformative journey in the insurance industry, emphasizing the pivotal role of consistent and targeted marketing in client acquisition.

With a background spanning work with fire sprinkler and extinguisher contractors to finding his stride in landlord insurance, Russ demonstrates the power of passion and specialization in driving business growth. He reveals the groundbreaking strategy behind his sub-brand, “7 Doors or More,” tailored specifically for landlords with seven or more rental properties, along with the unique marketing tactics that set him apart from the competition.

We also discuss the importance of prequalifying clients, maintaining quality contact lists, and taking action on great ideas to achieve unstoppable success. Whether you are an insurance agent or a business enthusiast, this episode is packed with pearls of wisdom to help you grow your business, create wealth, and gain the freedom to enjoy life’s special moments.

Highlights:

About Russ Castle:

Russ Castle is a dynamic and seasoned insurance professional with over three decades of experience in the industry. As the CEO of Insurance by Castle, he has transformed a small operation into a leading insurance provider in California. Known for his exceptional expertise in niches, ethical professionalism, and commitment to unmatched client service, Russ excels in delivering tailored insurance solutions through a broad network of providers, ensuring the best coverage at competitive prices for a diverse range of clients including both businesses and individuals. His strategic leadership has fostered the development of key partnerships and cultivated a company culture focused on integrity and customer satisfaction, which has significantly contributed to the firm’s reputation and growth. Additionally, Russ is an author and real estate investor, dedicated to community service and empowering residential rental owners with his book, Growing Your Real Estate Empire, which offers insider knowledge on managing rental properties in California. His achievements include steering the company’s evolution from a local entity to a recognized name in the national insurance landscape and designing innovative business models that cater to the specific needs of residential landlord owners.

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

In today’s episode, I have the incredible honor of talking with Jesse Parenti, the founder of $1,000,000 Niche Masters and a true trailblazer in the insurance industry. Jesse has made remarkable strides in specialized markets, particularly in the cannabis niche, and has been recognized for his innovative approaches. His story includes transforming DOS-based software to improve compliance and efficiency—a game-changer for the industry.

Jesse shares his journey from focusing on pizza delivery insurance to pioneering the cannabis insurance sector. His agency’s impressive feats, like being featured on the cover of Rough Notes Magazine, are just the tip of the iceberg. We delve into his strategic thinking, the importance of technology, and how categorizing clients and implementing audits can dramatically improve profitability. Plus, Jesse unveils his exciting new program, “$1,000,000 Niche Masters,” designed to help professionals master niche markets through an intensive 8-week course and ongoing support.

I’m especially excited because this episode is part of our ongoing series featuring cover agents from Rough Notes Magazine, bringing you firsthand experiences and insights from industry leaders. You’re going to walk away with actionable insights on solving client problems, leveraging technology, and making niche specialization work for you. Whether you’re in employee benefits, financial services, or property and casualty insurance, this episode is packed with strategies to help you grow and thrive in your own specialized market.

Highlights:

About Jesse Parenti:

Advising Board Member – ITW

Founder & CEO – JP Squared Consulting, LLC

National Director of Programs – Foy & Associates, A PCF Member

Founder & National Director – Nine Point Strategies, A PCF Member

Founder & National Director – PizzaSurance, A PCF Member

As Founder & CEO of JP Squared Consulting, a risk management consulting company, Jesse Parenti offers over 19 years of commercial lines risk management, specializing in protecting the transportation and food delivery industry and over 9 years in the Cannabis industry nationally.

Mr. Parenti’s key client base includes last-mile delivery, pizza and food delivery, cannabis cultivators, extractors, manufacturers, B2C delivery, B2B transportation and distribution, and wholesale organizations, including fully vertically integrated operators and publicly traded multi-state operators. He helps create custom solutions as a trusted risk advisor using safety, consulting, HR, and insurance placement.

Jesse has been a proud associate member of multiple business organizations and advocacy groups to build and nurture key relationships and continue to grow his business:

[email protected]

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

Welcome listeners to another heartwarming episode, I’m excited to continue highlighting the Top 3% high-achieving agents from our UPP circle, who have also graced the cover of Rough Notes magazine. Today, we have a truly inspiring story to share with you featuring Susan Shaw, the dynamic force behind Shaw Insurance Agency. Susan, along with her family, embodies the spirit of community service and altruism in the most remarkable ways.

In this episode, Susan takes us through her unique journey, from her father’s beginnings in the real estate business to her own bold leap into the insurance world. We’ll dive into the Shaw family’s extraordinary dedication to giving back, spotlighted by their award-winning Goals for Bowls initiative started by her daughter. This incredible program combines a love for soccer, a strong faith, and a commitment to feeding children across the globe. With over 113,000 meals provided and numerous trips to countries like Ghana, the Philippines, and Honduras, Susan’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of heartfelt service.

We’ll also explore Shaw Insurance’s philosophy of business, the importance of choosing the right clients, and how these values are seamlessly integrated into their international mission trips. Susan shares touching anecdotes about how soccer balls and a genuine passion for helping others can change lives. Get ready to be inspired by the Shawesome way of life—a shining example of how blending business with benevolence can create lasting change both locally and internationally.

Goals For Bowls

Highlights:

About Susan Shaw:

Susan Shaw is the co-owner of Shaw Insurance Agency in Hurst, Texas, where she’s built a full-service agency alongside her husband, Howard. Driven by a commitment to integrity, the Shaws prioritize building relationships over transactions, a principle they rooted in their Christian faith and the “Golden Rule.” Under their stewardship, Shaw Insurance expanded from its original home insurance offerings to provide a range of personal and commercial insurance products. Known for their dedication to quality, they work exclusively with A-rated companies, ensuring clients receive coverage from financially stable organizations.

Susan’s background in real estate has helped her guide clients through the complexities of insurance, treating each case like a puzzle to find the best coverage solutions. This hands-on approach has led the agency to rely solely on referrals and networking, as clients are often introduced through mutual connections, reinforcing the agency’s reputation for trust and personalized care.

Beyond her professional achievements, Susan is deeply involved in community service. She serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Chamber of Commerce, where she’s the current board chair, using her role to champion local businesses. She’s also a dedicated volunteer at a local food pantry and actively supports Goals for Bowls (GFB), a charity her daughter, Sarah, founded to provide soccer equipment and food to children in underserved countries. With Susan’s help, GFB has delivered supplies and food globally, including water systems for communities in Guatemala. Through her Rotary membership, Susan is now working to secure a grant for additional clean water systems, continuing her commitment to make a difference both locally and abroad.

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

“You can’t always control your situation, but you can always control your attitude.” These powerful words from our guest, Travis Mills. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Travis, a retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant from the 82nd Airborne, and one of the very few quadruple amputees to survive his injuries in combat.

Travis takes us through his incredible story, from his humble beginnings in Michigan to a life-changing injury on the battlefield, which led him to become a beacon of hope and resilience for others. We’ll explore his transformative work with the Travis Mills Foundation, dedicated to supporting injured veterans and their families, and hear about how his personal motto, “never give up, never quit,” continues to inspire countless lives.

As we approach Veterans Day, this episode is a tribute to all service members, highlighting Travis’s unwavering optimism, his contributions to the community, and the enduring impact of his positive outlook. Join us for motivation, heartwarming stories, and invaluable lessons from a true recalibrated warrior.

Highlights:

About Travis Mills:

Rest & Relaxation for the Recalibrated

Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis’s New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is currently available on sale in bookstores everywhere. Despite losing portions of both arms and legs from an IED while on active duty in Afghanistan, Travis continues to overcome life’s challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. Travis lives by his motto:

“Never give up. Never quit.”

On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries.

Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the heroic actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, near Washington D.C., Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and amazing spirit.

In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s great outdoors.

The Travis Mills Group LLC was started shortly after, where Travis consults with and speaks to companies and organizations nationwide inspiring all to overcome life’s challenges and adversity.

Travis’s story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News’ Happening Now with Jenna Lee, The O’Reilly Factor with Bill O’Reilly, CNN with Barbara Starr, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

In this episode, I’m excited to continue highlighting the Top 3% high-achieving agents from our UPP circle, who have also graced the cover of Rough Notes magazine. Today, I’m joined by Nancy Mendizabal and David Brush, the dynamic sibling duo behind Apple Valley Agency.

We dive deep into the power of positive thinking and the immense growth opportunities in the business world. Nancy and David share their journey of transforming their insurance agency, reaching incredible milestones, and embracing remote work to find the perfect balance in life.

They also explain how they shifted from daily operations to strategic growth, the importance of having a coach, and how their book, How to Protect Your Family, has strengthened their business relationships.

As the number one agency in America, according to Rough Notes magazine, Nancy and David talk about their ability to see change as an opportunity. Whether you’re in insurance or any other business sector, you’ll gain valuable insights on leveraging technology, capturing market share, and building strong relationships—all while celebrating wins along the way.

Highlights:

About David Brush:

David joined Apple Valley Insurance in 1991, and has been an owner with his sister, Nancy Mendizabal, since 2004.  He enjoys participating and volunteering for organizations that support youth.  He donates time as an Academy of Finance board member at the Smithfield High School, and as a Greenville Public Library board member.  He, along with his four sisters, is active in the New England MS Society 3-day Cape Cod walk in memory of his mother. In his free time he likes to ski, travel, cook, go to the beach, play board games, and spend time with his wife, children, and family.

About Nancy Mendizabal:

Nancy joined Scituate Insurance in 1990 after working in the banking industry for several years (and became an owner of Apple Valley Agency with her brother David in 2004).  She recently celebrated 25 years with Apple Valley & Scituate Insurance. Nancy donates her time to several organizations that support education, the Ponaganset Education Foundation and the First Class Scholarship program, and the VASA Order of America Scholarship Fund. She is Past President of the IIARI, and has served on the National Agents Panel for MetLife Auto & Home.  She, along with her siblings and dad, has supported the New England MS Society 3-day Challenge Walk in memory of her mother since 2001.  In her free time she enjoys traveling, skiing, and spending time with her family.

Visit our website: applevalleyagency.com

Like us on Facebook: Apple Valley Insurance Facebook

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

Our next segment highlighting agents who have graced the cover of Rough Notes Magazine features our very own Mike Stromsoe. Andrea Watt, Program Director of UPP Programs, takes the reins and puts Mike in the hot seat to share the core values and strategies that propelled his agency to success.

Together, they explore Mike’s journey to being recognized for building an insurance agency grounded in core values and driven by a strong focus on people. From hilarious team-building moments like silly string battles and reindeer hoops, to embracing technology and streamlined processes that skyrocketed client service and referrals, Mike shares the secrets that caught Rough Notes’ attention and helped shape his thriving agency. They also discuss how this recognition amplified their approach to growing a business that puts “people first.” The duo wraps up by previewing the upcoming UPP Grand Mastermind event in Phoenix, Arizona—an exclusive gathering of top insurance agents focused on business growth and personal freedom.

Highlights:

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

I am excited to feature over the next few episodes, the Top 3% high-achieving agents from our UPP circles, who have also donned the cover of Rough Notes magazine.

Today, our extraordinary guest, Bill Butler, founder of Butler and Associates Insurance in Apple Valley, Minnesota, shares his journey from military service to becoming a highly recognized insurance agent featured in Rough Notes magazine, and it is nothing short of inspirational.

Bill provides remarkable insights into the importance of surrounding yourself with high achievers, learning from failures, and the transformational power of niche specialization. He reveals how focusing on veterinarians has driven his agency’s growth and credibility. We’ll also hear about the crucial role of networking, industry involvement, and having a supportive ‘square squad’ in achieving sustained success. With motivational advice for fellow insurance agents and tips on time management and productivity, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.

Highlights:

About Bill Butler:

Bill Bulter is president of Butler & Associates Insurance Agency Inc. and founder of Butler Vet Insurance, focusing on insurance for the veterinary and pet services industry. He spent twelve years in the military with the Minnesota Army National Guard and US Army, serving in various roles both in Minnesota and 101st Airborne Division, Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, before entering the insurance industry. He is active in his local business community, veterinary associations, and Rotary Club, and is passionate about giving back to others. Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he and his wife, Shannan, reside in Burnsville, Minnesota.

www.butlerveterinarybook.com

www.butlervetinsurance.com

Join us in Phoenix Arizona, November 8 & 9 for the 2024 UPP Grand Mastermind event!

This Invitation-ONLY, LIVE Mastermind is Exclusively for Independent Insurance Agency Owners who want to create a personal no-excuses roadmap to your next level of success.

If you want to:

The UPP Grand Mastermind is for you!

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

Diving into the crucial topic of why you MUST monitor your online presence. From branding essentials to cutting-edge tools, Mike shares invaluable tips to help you enhance your brand identity and consistency. He recommends Donald Miller’s book “Building A Story Brand” for mastering brand messaging and discusses the importance of social media engagement, content marketing, and robust email marketing strategies.

This episode also highlights the importance of maintaining a stellar e-commerce platform and leveraging analytics for informed business decisions. We’ll explore the vital role of customer support, adaptability, and innovation, all aimed at impacting lives personally and professionally.

Whether you’re looking to ramp up your recruiting efforts, improve your business success, or simply ensure your online presence is top-notch, this episode has you covered. So tune in and get ready to transform your online presence into a world-class operation.

Highlights:

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

Let’s jump right into this life-affirming dialogue with guest Jim Cathcart. Jim Cathcart is a motivational speaker and real-life exemplar of resilience and optimism. Jim’s accolades, including the prestigious Golden Gavel award, set the stage for a conversation that traverses personal growth, embracing life’s vulnerabilities, and the undeniable power of a positive mindset.

Jim shares his wisdom on the acorn’s symbolism of untapped potential, the impact of dedicating time to self-improvement, and how a seemingly small daily commitment can lead to monumental change. We’ll touch on his health challenges, his unwavering commitment to living fully, and how our actions shape our future.

So brace yourself for an episode that will ignite your desire for greatness and show you why stepping out of your comfort zone is the essence of truly living.

Highlights:

About Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE:

the family man.

Jim and Paula have been married for 53 years and have raised a happy successful son with 2 *Amazing grandchildren. (*And they can prove it!)

the musician.

Jim Cathcart and his band “ReZoom The Boom” recently performed for 8 years in Southern California and now in Austin, Texas. Frequently including music as part of his speaking engagements, Jim has performed around the world. http://GuitarMusicLive.com

the traveler.

Professionally, in 2015 through 2019 Jim lectured in 23 major cities in mainland China plus a round-the-world lecture tour. He’s traveled the world for decades and knows how to adapt to other cultures. Additionally, Jim is a Life Member of the American Motorcyclist Association and has toured Europe and North America over 150,000 miles on his motorcycles. He was the keynote speaker for the 100 year anniversary convention of Harley Davidson in 2003. Jim is a proud Texan, now based in Austin

the speaker.

Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has  2.7 million views, his 25 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.

Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.

the author.

Jim has written 25 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is What To Do When You’re The Speaker. Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Virtual Events: http://www.uppfaststart.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!

Have you ever pondered what your top personal talents, gifts, or superpowers are? In this episode, Power of Three I’ll guide you on an introspective journey to discover these crucial elements that can drastically enhance both your personal and professional life.

We’ll talk about dedicating time and effort to identify your “Version 1″ – your top three qualities – and the significance of consistently reflecting on them for sustained growth. Drawing from my own experiences, we’ll explore the power of honing in on what you excel at and love doing. Inspired by these insights, I embarked on a journey that took 16 years of dedication and implementation, and now, I’m here to help you shorten that learning curve.

We’ll also discuss my upcoming book, “Power of Three,” set to launch on October 22, 2024, designed to help you unlock your potential and achieve meaningful personal and financial growth. We have important updates on the Unstoppable Profit Podcast moving to a biweekly format and what that means for our community.

Highlights:

Until next time, get out there and make a difference, be unstoppable, and leave no regrets!

Mike Stromsoe

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

If you want to learn more about our Coaching & Mastermind Programs and how they can help you grow your agency business, schedule your private Agency Growth Session with Mike Stromsoe Now (click here)!