Episode 291: AI Coworkers for Your Agency with Vishal Rohra

When someone on stage says your bots are already outdated, you sit up and listen—and that’s exactly what happened when I heard Vishal Rohra speak. His message about AI coworkers being the future of independent insurance agencies wasn’t just compelling, it was urgent. In this episode, Vishal, co-founder of K.ai, explains how AI has evolved beyond traditional bots into adaptive, trainable digital teammates—AI coworkers who can learn your agency’s processes, take on repetitive tasks, and free up your human team to do what they do best: build relationships and close business. We explore how these tools are already being used in real agencies to handle everything from quoting to renewals, and why adopting AI isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for survival and growth in today’s competitive landscape.

Highlights:

  • Learn how AI coworkers differ from traditional bots and why adaptability is their biggest strength.
  • Discover the types of agency workflows AI can take over—from quoting and data entry to carrier logins and form processing.
  • Understand how agencies are saving over 100 hours per month by implementing AI coworkers strategically.
  • See how AI coworkers integrate seamlessly with your existing systems and workflows without disrupting your team.
  • Hear how onboarding can be completed in two weeks, starting small and scaling up as the coworker learns your processes.
  • Get inspired to shift your team’s mindset from fear of tech to seeing AI as a powerful tool that honors their time and skills.

 

About Vishal Rohra:

Vishal is the Co-Founder and CEO at Kay.ai, building AI Coworkers for Insurance Operations. Kay is on a mission to eliminate double entry work across agencies. Their bots can navigate any carrier or agency management system, and pick up tasks across submissions and servicing. Previously, Vishal worked as a machine learning initiative across Microsoft and Twitter, before joining the South Park Commons Fellowship. They are backed by Insurance Associations and Industry veterans to disrupt the $300B BPO market.

 

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

Mike Stromsoe
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.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)!

Episode 290: Power of Three Book Unleashed

Sometimes, one sentence from someone you love can shape your destiny. In this special episode, I share the deeply personal story behind my new book, The Power of Three.

Inspired by a message from my late father, this book is the product of decades of growth, reflection, and a mission to help others live with purpose. I walk you through the heart of the book—how discovering your top three personal talents or superpowers can unlock greater impact, profit, and fulfillment. Whether you’re leading a team or seeking your next breakthrough, this episode is your invitation to find and unleash the power already inside you.

Highlights:

  • How to uncover your top three personal strengths and use them to unlock massive impact and fulfillment.
  • The role legacy and leadership play in building a life that outlives you—and how to start living that mission today.
  • Practical frameworks from the book to help you lead your team better, set goals that matter, and achieve lasting success.
  • The power of personal routine and accountability systems that help turn your gifts into consistent action.
  • Why “you get to do it” is more powerful than “you have to do it”—and how this simple mindset shift transforms everything.
  • How real agency leaders are thriving by aligning their roles with their true talents—and how you can do the same.

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

Mike Stromsoe
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 289: AI – Tech and More – NO Decision is a Decision with Rob Bowen

Twenty years ago, I was figuring out how to go paperless, and today, technology is revolutionizing our industry—but too many agencies are still stuck in the past. My guest, Rob Bowen, founder of Patriotic Insurance Group, has embraced automation, bots, and AI to eliminate manual work, improve efficiency, and free his team to focus on what really matters. In this episode, we break down why most agencies struggle with tech (hint: messy data), how automation isn’t about replacing people but enabling them, and why no decision is a decision—if you’re not moving forward, you’re choosing to fall behind. Rob shares practical steps to clean up your data, implement automation without overwhelm, and shift your mindset so you can future-proof your agency.

Highlights:

  • Avoiding automation and AI won’t keep your agency safe—it will leave you behind. Adapting to new technology is essential to staying competitive.
  • Automation is only as good as the data it runs on. If your AMS or CRM is a mess, AI will only make things worse. Clean, accurate data is key.
  • Empower your team to think and act, not just follow orders. This creates a stronger, more efficient workforce and reduces micromanagement.
  • Let technology handle repetitive tasks so your team can focus on clients and strategy. Automation is a tool, not a threat.
  • Stop wasting time collecting basic info manually. Use tools like Canopy Connect and JotForms to speed up the process and reduce errors.
  • Don’t get overwhelmed. Identify your biggest inefficiencies, automate one process at a time, and refine as you go.

About Rob Bowen:

Rob Bowen is the proud owner of Patriotic Insurance Group, a seasoned veteran, and a cornerstone of his community. With a wealth of experience spanning a decade in the insurance sector, Rob is dedicated to delivering tailored solutions that protect his clients’ interests.

Having served his country with honor, Rob brings a disciplined approach and strong values to his work. His military background instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to service, which he translates into ensuring his clients receive top-notch insurance coverage and personalized attention.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Rob is actively involved in community initiatives. He volunteers his time and resources to support local causes and organizations, demonstrating his passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

As the founder of Patriotic Insurance Group, Rob combines his expertise in insurance with his community-minded approach to provide trustworthy and reliable service. His dedication to excellence and genuine care for his clients make him a respected figure in both the insurance industry and his local community.

With the acquisition of Burkhard-Evans in Inlet NY he has expanded the ability to serve clients all over NY state and surrounding states.

Instagram

Patriotic Insurance Group – Personal and Business Insurance

 

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

Mike Stromsoe
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 288: Preparation is Separation

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:

  • Success isn’t built on big wins alone; it comes from the small, consistent habits you commit to every day.
  • The work you put in before others even start their day gives you a competitive edge and sets the tone for long-term success.
  • Staying focused, resilient, and intentional in your approach will determine how far you go in business and life.
  • No level of success is worth it if you’re not showing up for the people who matter most in your life.
  • Hard work is necessary, but failing to balance business and personal priorities can create challenges that are difficult to fix later.
  • Study the habits, strategies, and mindsets of top performers, and apply what works to accelerate your own growth.

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

Mike Stromsoe
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 287: Get Your Clients Front Door Open with Austin Moorhead

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:

  • How inefficient workflows drain time and money, and why automation is the key to sustainable business growth.
  • A surprising percentage of potential clients slip through the cracks due to slow or inconsistent follow-up strategies.
  • AI-powered tools are transforming client acquisition and reducing workload for small business owners.
  • Tips for finding the right VAs, setting expectations, and ensuring they integrate seamlessly into business operations.
  • Understanding when and how to reach potential customers can significantly boost conversions and long-term relationships.
  • errors businesses make when implementing automation and how to fix them before they cost you clients.
  • Strategies for keeping interactions authentic while leveraging technology.
  • A look at the future of automation, including emerging trends that will shape how businesses attract and retain clients.

 

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
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 286: High Performing Agency Teams with Laura Hicks

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:

  • Understanding personality profiles to find the right fit for your agency roles.
  • Identifying critical hiring challenges including finding the right person, team motivation, and retention strategies.
  • Creating job ads that attract suitable candidates by highlighting your agency’s strengths and culture.
  • Utilizing specific assessment tools to evaluate candidates’ sales skills and fit for sales roles.
  • Recognizing different motivators among team members to effectively lead and engage them.
  • Exploring leadership competencies critical for agency leaders to improve team performance.
  • Tailoring job descriptions for specific roles to attract the most qualified candidates.
  • Matching behavioral styles with job requirements to ensure the right person for the right job.
  • Identifying and managing team members who exhibit a victim mentality to maintain a productive work environment.

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:

  • Create/tweak ads to attract the right people to apply for your advertised position.
  • Has guidelines for the phone call and the in-person interviews or will do it for you.
  • Offers several different online assessments including behavioral styles, core values, critical thinking, sales skills and leadership.
  • Helps you determine if you have the right people in the right seats or not.
  • Works with you on team member conflicts and how to avoid or fix them.
  • Leads workshops in person or via Zoom on the topics above.

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:

  • Advanced Certified Practitioner (ACP)
  • Certified Professional Behavioral Styles (CPBA)
  • Certified Professional Motivational Analyst (CPMA)

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
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 285: The BIGGEST of your Big 3 Marketing Strategies

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:

  • Mike shares the story of his first acquisition in 2001, explaining how early growth set a strong foundation for his agency.
  • He reflects on lessons learned from four unique acquisitions and how each experience shaped his approach.
  • The importance of cultural alignment is emphasized, ensuring acquired agencies fit seamlessly with your vision.
  • Financial planning is key, with a focus on retention, cash flow, and sustaining growth after an acquisition.
  • Integrating technology systems like CRMs and AMS can be tricky but critical for long-term success.
  • Crafting a strong case to stand out as the best buyer in a competitive market can make all the difference.
  • Projected retention rates are broken down, showing their impact on the financial health of an acquisition.
  • Financing strategies, from self-financing to bank loans, are explored with practical advice.
  • Mike stresses involving CPAs and attorneys early to avoid costly missteps during the acquisition process.

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:

  • Big mistakes that slow agency growth.
  • How to build a strong team and simplify your operations.
  • Proven strategies to attract great clients and keep them.
  • Systems to lower stress and save time for what matters most.

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
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 284: How to Actually Get Shitake Done with Joel McKinley

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:

  • External accountability is crucial for honest feedback and growth.
  • Coaches provide outside perspectives, delivering hard truths for improvement.
  • Regular, scheduled accountability sessions maximize consistent goal achievement.
  • Crafting a vision helps focus on long-term goals over daily distractions.
  • Prioritize long-term goals over new, shiny ideas to stay focused.
  • Effective accountability requires being open to and comfortable with constructive feedback.
  • Accountability thrives on trust and strong, supportive relationships.
  • Balancing tough feedback with genuine care leads to positive accountability.
  • Upcoming masterclass on doubling insurance agency growth without doubling workload, promotes long-term business strategies.

 

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:

  • Big mistakes that slow agency growth.
  • How to build a strong team and simplify your operations.
  • Proven strategies to attract great clients and keep them.
  • Systems to lower stress and save time for what matters most.

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
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 283: Imagine….12/31/2025

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:

  • Create a clear vision for 2025 by imagining your most incredible year.
  • Identify tasks you love, tolerate, and dislike to bring more joy and clarity.
  • Focus on your top three talents or gifts to maximize effectiveness.
  • Set detailed personal goals for health, family, and lifestyle balance.
  • Be intentional, accountable, and innovative to elevate your business and personal growth.

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

Mike Stromsoe
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

Episode 282: 7 Doors Niche to Leads Multiple 7 Figures with Russ Castle

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:

  • Regular outreach builds recognition and trust, motivating clients to reach out when they’re ready.
  • Prequalifying ensures you’re targeting suitable prospects, increasing conversion rates and efficiency.
  • Teaching helps solidify your knowledge.
  • Giving back enhances your reputation and personal fulfillment beyond professional achievements.
  • Focusing on scalable niches maximizes revenue and efficiency, significantly boosting your bottom line.
  • Investing in high-quality contact lists streamlines marketing efforts and dramatically improves results.
  • Unique direct mail marketing, like gold trifold mailers, can significantly increase engagement and conversions.
  • Systematically narrowing down prospects reduces marketing costs and increases return on investment.
  • Prioritizing lifestyle flexibility allows for cherished family moments, enhancing personal satisfaction.
  • Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities to fine-tune strategies and ensure future success.

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
The Unstoppable Profit Producer
Call 800-770-9984

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)!

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