Success in the independent insurance business isn’t about luck but preparation. In this episode, I take you back to 1998, when I started my agency from scratch. Long hours, early mornings, and sacrifices were the norm, but one defining moment made me realize that preparation isn’t just about work but balance, vision, and showing up where it matters most. I’ll share the hard-earned lessons that separate top performers from the rest and how you can apply them to grow a thriving business without losing sight of what’s important. Let’s dive in!

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)!

Automation can be a game-changer—or a nightmare—if not done right. In this episode, I chat with Austin Moorhead, founder of Lava Automation, a firm specializing in marketing automation and streamlined client acquisition. Austin has helped countless businesses remove bottlenecks in their sales processes, allowing them to grow without being buried in manual tasks. We dive into the critical concept of “get your front door open”—both literally and digitally—so they take action. He shares how businesses can effectively use automation, VAs, and smart systems to attract and convert ideal clients without wasting time on repetitive work. We also break down common automation pitfalls, how to avoid them, and the best strategies for creating a seamless customer journey. If you’re looking to scale smarter, increase efficiency, and make automation work for your business, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways.

Highlights:

About Austin Moorhead:

Austin Moorhead was a former State Farm agent that saw the light and Co-Founded ANR Insurance, an independent insurance agency.  During the transition from the captive world to the independent channel, he noticed a huge need for something he had become super proficient in… AUTOMATION!

Then Conversion Kings was born.  Austin saw massive growth in helping agents with automation, however, he also identified the need for someone to assist in running the automation that had been implemented.  Austin then founded Lava Automation.  Lava Automation provides virtual assistant services and business automation solutions to help companies streamline operations and reduce costs. Their skilled professionals specialize in automating routine tasks, enabling businesses to enhance efficiency and productivity.

https://www.lavaautomation.com/

[email protected]

Phone:  503-966-2319

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)!

Ever wondered how top-performing insurance agencies attract and retain the best talent? Laura Hicks dives deep into the secrets of building unstoppable teams in our latest episode! Laura, a renowned trainer, speaker, business consultant, and author of The Blue Circles. Together, we explore the crucial components that contribute to building high-performing agency teams within the independent insurance industry. Laura shares her expertise on the indispensable steps of recruiting, motivating, and retaining top-tier talent, highlighting the critical role of personality profiling and leadership assessments in ensuring a seamless fit within your agency. We discuss how to tailor job ads effectively to resonate with today’s market demands and uncover the nuances of leadership skills that can elevate your team’s performance. With actionable strategies and in-depth analysis, this episode is designed to arm agency owners and leaders with the knowledge needed to cultivate a robust and thriving team culture. Tune in and discover how you can transform your agency environment for unparalleled success.

Highlights:

About Laura Hicks:

Laura is a trainer, speaker, business consultant and author of The Blue Circles, which is a book about building relationships. Prior to starting her own business, she spent 21 years working in Corporate America in Sales, Marketing and HR, Pacific Bell.

Since opening her business in 2004, Laura helps business professionals:

Laura has spoken at over 1000 events and led over 1000 of her workshops. She has been a member of ProVisors and the Group Leader for the South Bay Women’s Affinity Group since 2013. Laura has 3 certificates in her field:

Simply stated… she has spent a lot of time and money getting certified in many different types of assessments and has trained thousands of people.

When Laura is not working, she loves listening to smooth jazz, watching the NFL, the sun, boating, floating, going to the beach and Disneyland.

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)!

Guest host Joel McKinley puts Mike Stromsoe in the hot seat for an in-depth exploration of insurance agency acquisitions. Mike delves into his extensive experience, highlighting how acquisitions form a critical part of a three-pronged strategy to grow an independent insurance agency. He shares insights from his first acquisition just three years after founding his agency in 1998 and emphasizes the importance of having the right people, processes, and strategies in place.

Listeners will benefit from Mike’s detailed discussions on the importance of due diligence, ensuring cultural fit, and the significance of financial planning for maintaining growth post-acquisition. He covers vital aspects such as getting non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) signed early, understanding the motives of potential sellers, and assessing the strategic alignment of acquired clients. Mike also provides a deep dive into financial considerations, including cash flow management and dealing with various lenders while highlighting the need to protect and nurture agency culture throughout the acquisition process. This episode is packed with practical advice and strategies for insurance agency owners looking to leverage acquisitions for rapid and sustainable growth.

Highlights:

Mastermind: How To Double Your Insurance Agency’s Growth In 2025 Without Doubling Your Workload

Tuesday, January 28th  TIME: 9:00am PST

In this high-impact masterclass, Mike will reveal:

This isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. If you’re ready to achieve big results without doubling your workload, this session is for you. Don’t miss your chance to learn directly from Mike Stromsoe and gain strategies to transform your agency for 2025.

Reserve Your Seat Today: https://bit.ly/Masterclass-01-2025-E

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)!

2025 is the year to actually get shitake done! I’m your host, Mike Stromsoe, and today, alongside Joel McKinley, we’re diving deep into the life-changing power of accountability and how you can get it done in your business and personal life. Joel McKinley, the Accountability Director for UPP members and a former drill sergeant, brings his expertise to the table, sharing insights from his military background and extensive coaching experience. We’ll discuss the significance of external accountability, the role of coaches, and real-life anecdotes illustrating the transformative impact of outside input. Hear about Mike’s journey with a challenging 72-mile bike ride and Joel’s vital role in holding him accountable. We’ll also introduce the upcoming masterclass on scaling your insurance agency without doubling your workload and offer a special article on accountability by email request. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how to integrate accountability into every aspect of your life for unstoppable growth!

Highlights:

TOPIC: How To Double Your Insurance Agency’s Growth In 2025 Without Doubling Your Workload

Tuesday, January 28th 

TIME: 9:00am PST

In this high-impact masterclass, Mike will reveal:

This isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. If you’re ready to achieve big results without doubling your workload, this session is for you. Don’t miss your chance to learn directly from Mike Stromsoe and gain strategies to transform your agency for 2025.

Reserve Your Seat Today: https://bit.ly/Masterclass-01-2025-E

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)!

Imagine closing out 2025 feeling like you’ve just lived the most incredible year of your life. That’s exactly what we’re working on in this episode. I’ll guide you through an exercise to set a crystal-clear vision for the future, using three powerful questions to shape your personal and professional success.

We’ll dive deep into strategies to create clarity, focus on what truly brings joy, and craft an intentional plan to make your vision a reality. From identifying tasks that energize you to empowering your team and elevating your brand, this episode is all about aligning your actions with your goals.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone striving to design your best year, this episode has everything you need to set the foundation for success. Let’s make it happen!

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)!

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)!