Category: Podcast Episodes

Episode 249: 2 Billion Through True Business Partnerships with David Gabrielsen of Capital Premium Finance

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In this episode, David Gabrielsen the founder of Capital Premium Finance shares his entrepreneurial journey of a company with a team of 166 people known for its exceptional leadership and culture. David’s story is one of dedication, faith, and building strong relationships, as he reflects on the challenges and successes of building his business over the years. From facing financial setbacks to nationwide expansion, David shares invaluable insights on perseverance, the importance of family, and the impact of genuine leadership. Join us as we explore the journey of entrepreneurship, the power of positive impact, and the keys to success in business and personal life.

Highlights:

  • His Dad’s advice led to a career shift, learned financial skills.
  • Borrowed money, received help from their brother, and secured a credit facility.
  • Grew business within 10 years.
  • Focus on building trustful relationships with agencies to solve problems and achieve mutual success.
  • Faced with an ultimatum they, found an alternative finance broker.
  • Building strong, genuine partnerships based on integrity and transparency.
  • Being an entrepreneur is tough, learn from mistakes and keep going, find support.
  • Being a leader and providing for family is important, prioritize work and family balance.

About David F. Gabrielsen:

David F. Gabrielsen stands as the visionary founder and dynamic CEO of Capital Premium Financing, Inc. (CPF), a pioneering specialty lending institution dedicated to providing insurance premium financing solutions for commercial enterprises. With a keen entrepreneurial spirit and a forward-thinking approach, Gabrielsen established CPF in 1983, setting the stage for what would become a beacon of innovation, service excellence, and sustained growth within the premium finance loan industry.

Under Gabrielsen’s adept leadership, CPF has flourished, consistently achieving remarkable average annual growth rates exceeding 30%. His hands-on management style and strategic vision have been instrumental in steering the company through the evolving landscape of financial services, ensuring CPF remains at the forefront of product innovation and customer service.

Gabrielsen’s profound understanding of the financial sector, coupled with his commitment to excellence, has fostered a culture of professionalism and expertise within CPF. He leads a distinguished team of financial managers, whose collective experience in commercial banking, investment portfolio management, and financial institution regulation spans over 150 years. This formidable expertise underpins CPF’s reputation as a trusted leader and partner in the industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gabrielsen is recognized for his integrity, leadership, and dedication to fostering long-term partnerships with clients. His contribution to CPF and the broader financial community continues to set standards for service and innovation, making him a respected figure in the world of premium financing.

 

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 247: Job Descriptions and Leading Your Team

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The power of job descriptions for independent insurance agencies. Let’s break it down. Today I chat about the crucial world of job descriptions and leadership within your team. Sharing my wealth of knowledge and experience in the necessity of job descriptions for successful team management. Also discuss how job descriptions will attract the right team members, improve employee satisfaction, provide clear guidance for performance, and match skills and talents to find the right roles.

Highlights:

  • Importance of leadership, goals, and expectations.
  • Encourage your team to write their own job descriptions.
  • Being clear in team expectations emphasized.
  • Use the P x Three program for job descriptions.
  • Clear leadership expectations drive skill improvement and productivity, anchored by core values and a culture of 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 246: Your Core Values Define Your Agency

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Have you defined your core values for your agency?

Delving into the crucial role of core values in businesses, particularly agency businesses. I cannot stress enough that core values shape an organization’s culture and identity, influencing everything from hiring decisions to conflict resolution. Through insightful examples and practical tips, I reveal the significance of living and embodying core values within a team, while emphasizing the impact of core values on brand perception and community engagement.

Join us as I explore the 3-step process of defining and integrating core values, and how they contribute to creating a better business culture and leadership.

Highlights:

  • Core values in business for personal and professional success.
  • How core values shape discipline, rewards, and training in the insurance agency business. Time and effort are needed to develop, share, and implement core values.
  • Foundation for an organization’s future success and should be more than just words on a wall.
  • Ownership, core values, personal & organizational level, attitudes & behaviors, impact organization.
  • Consistently reinforced through praise, recognition, and discipline.
  • Start with brainstorming, then narrow down core values in a 1-on-1 session.

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 245: What DO You Have To Sell with Christos Provistalis (Encore)

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Are you truly connecting with your customers and do they understand what you have to sell?

Not only did the unstoppable Christos Provistalis blow the attendees away at the most recent Be Unstoppable Bootcamp, he wanted to bring even more value and did a very special UPP member only training. So we wanted to bring it to you The best of the best that Christos has to offer…

Take a look at this encore presentation at the request of many!

Get ready for an enlightening conversation as we dive deep into the power of human connection and understanding what you truly sell in your businesses. Christos brings his expertise in helping companies grow and impact people’s lives. The discussion also delves into the different methods of communication, from traditional phone calls to face-to-face interactions, and now, the rise of digital platforms like Zoom. Emphasizing the importance of deep and meaningful human connections that can only be achieved through in-person interactions. Christos provides practical insights and strategies for businesses to make emotional connections with their customers. They explore real-life examples and share their personal experiences to illustrate the power of such connections.

Highlights:

  • Email lacks emotion and can be misconstrued, while face-to-face communication allows for a deeper understanding.
  • The importance of understanding what a company truly sells and how to connect with customers on an emotional level in order to effectively sell a product or service.
  • It is an energy formed between people when they feel seen, heard, valued, and understood. Building this connection is crucial in sales and leadership.
  • Emotional investment leads to less critical observation and stronger bonds.
  • Family conversation sparked insight on the love for work.

About Christos Provistalis:

Christos Provistalis is a seasoned hospitality professional with a passion for creating experiences and fostering genuine connections. As a Guest Service Manager for the renowned Walt Disney Company, he had the privilege of dedicating his leadership career to the prestigious Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.  During his time at Disney, Christos witnessed firsthand the transformative power of exceptional customer service and the impact it had on guests. Inspired by this, he embarked on a new journey after leaving the company—to share his knowledge and expertise with others.

As a sought-after speaker, Christos travels across the United States, sharing his insights with professionals from various industries.  Christos covers the heart of service, exploring the dynamics of human connection, emotions, self-awareness, and perception. Recognizing that exceptional service is not just about transactional interactions, but about creating memorable moments.  Through thought-provoking discussions and real-life examples, Christos empowers you to elevate yourself and leave a lasting impact on others both personally and professionally.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christosspeaks/

 

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 244: Guarding Your Book With Purpose with Lynnette Wood

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We are starting off 2024 by diving into the art of “Guarding Your Book With Purpose.” with the inspiring Lynnette Wood. Lynnette brings a wealth of expertise in the insurance industry and shares invaluable insights on providing exceptional client care and creating new opportunities. Her vision for her agency aligns with her passion for helping others, and there’s no doubt that her story will motivate and enlighten our listeners. Tune in as we explore strategies for growing agencies, the power of trust in client relationships, and the promise of offering benefits without added workload. Stay tuned and let’s discover how to be unstoppable in making a difference and believing in ourselves.

Highlights:

  • Seeking support for a new direction, found like-minded partners.
  • Signing contracts provides new revenue stream, blocks competition, and benefits clients.
  • Expanding benefits business, learning, helping others, collaboration.
  • Encouraging protection and sharing commercial opportunities.
  • Online portal for claims, EOBs, Teladoc, network doctors, and prescription info. Customer training.
  • Care and support for claims and insurance.
  • Health insurance: understand network, preauthorization, referrals.
  • Payroll is top priority, followed by insurance benefits.

About Lynnette Wood:

Lynnette is a lifelong Alaskan. She grew up on Kodiak Island, and loved the subsistence life and closeknit community Kodiak offered. After high school, Lynnette went on to college at Seattle Pacific University where she met and married her husband, Jeff Wood, in 1993. She graduated with a Bio-Chem degree.

After college, she settled in Anchorage and has been living there ever since.  Jeff and Lynnette have three children; Katrina, Caleb and Kennedy. For many years Lynnette ran a successful medical transcription business out of her home while the kids were young. After Kennedy entered kindergarten, Lynnette went back to school and earned a Master’s degree in Teaching. Lynnette taught in both the public and private school systems before entering the insurance world.

She purchased Aurora National Insurance in 2012 and hasn’t looked back. Helping people understand insurance lingo and the policies they purchase is her passion.  Lynnette strives to provide an enjoyable and educational experience for businesses and families as they work with her agency to find the best insurance coverage available.

Lynnette’s hobbies are hiking, fishing, biking, books and sitting around a campfire with friends.

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 243: Your Most Incredible Year Ever!!

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As we close out 2023 I hope I have empowered and inspired you to reach your full potential. In this episode, Today I share some powerful insights and practical steps to make the upcoming year your most incredible year ever. Outlying three simple yet profound questions to guide you toward a more joyful, fulfilling, and successful life. Join me as we delve into strategies for personal and professional growth and learn how to design your life for maximum impact and legacy. Don’t miss out on this transformative episode that will help you step into the new year with purpose and clarity.

Highlights:

  • Encouragement to never give up, three simple thoughts to inspire and encourage action.
  • Prioritize joy and fulfillment; do what you love, avoid tolerating, and eliminate hate. Plan for simplicity and fulfillment to be happier.
  • Improve brand positioning through associations, learning, and growth.
  • Focus on financial goals for business success. Identify 1-3 key actions in each category. Establish targets and celebrate achievements.
  • Design life for success.

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 242: Using Data to Power Your Agency Profit with Sherif Gemayel

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Having discovered that our stories are eerily very much alike, it is my privilege and honor to sit down with Sherif Gemayel. Sherif is an industry expert who once owned a successful tech-enabled agency in Canada and later started the tech company Trufla before selling the agency. Sharing how he used innovative technology to bolster agency profit. Sherif introduces the True Mobile platform, a game-changer for insurance policy servicing, which integrates AI-powered intelligence, real-time quoting capabilities, and agent-client interaction tools. The discussion delves into the advantages of independent agents over big tech companies, the challenges and opportunities in the insurance industry, and the key role of quick decision-making. Join us as we uncover the dynamic intersection of technology, customer service, and agency success in the insurance landscape.

Highlights:

  • Sharif Jamail founded Sharp Insurance, a successful tech-enabled agency in Canada, and later started the tech company Trufla before selling the agency.
  • Comparing independent agencies to tech companies as distributors, not builders.
  • Speed matters more than price in insurance. Fast quotes win opportunities.
  • True Mobile app: first in North America, AI and renewal intelligence for agents, focuses on customer relationships.
  • Measure ratios, analyze, follow up important.
  • Emphasizes 80/20 rule and independence in insurance.
  • Industry faces the challenge of data standardization, using carrier APIs to enhance value. 

About Sherif Gemayel:

With over 15 years of experience in the insurance and technology industries, I am a serial entrepreneur and an insurtech visionary. I founded and sold Sharp Insurance, one of the most innovative brokerages in Canada, and launched Trufla Technology, a leading provider of digital solutions for brokers.

As the CEO of Trufla Technology, I lead a team of over 140 experts in insurance software development, AI, data management, app development, and UI/UX. We deliver a complete digital transformation solution for brokers, enabling them to compete and grow in an ever-evolving digital landscape. With over 200 clients spanning the globe, our mission is to be the technology that powers the broker channel. I am passionate about disrupting the traditional way of distributing insurance, using trends from other industries to guide me through this uncharted territory.

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
Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

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

Email [email protected]

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

Virtual Training: http://uppfaststart.com

In Person Training: http://beunstoppablebootcamp.com

Episode 241: Your Client Experience Drives Your Profit – With Thomas Mann of Aureus Analytics

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Welcoming my esteemed guest Thomas Mann, listen as we explore the use of technology to streamline agency workflows. Diving into the potential impact of AI and machine learning on the insurance industry, shedding light on the concept of predictability and value in agencies. We gain insights into Aureus Analytics the tech platform, and its role in enhancing agency workflows. The discussion also focuses on the centimeter score, a key metric measuring client experience opinion, and its significance in analyzing customer journeys to improve agency performance.

Join us as we uncover the integration of DONNA, the revolutionary platform, with agency management systems, and its ability to provide proactive service models through predictive analysis.

Highlights:

  • Aureus focuses on data analytics in insurance with DONNA as a platform launched in April 2020.
  • Benchmarking customer experience helps analyze and improve workflows.
  • AI is trendy but not taking over jobs. Adapting tech is important to avoid being left behind.
  • DONNA UI: Customizable role-based interface for agencies. GPS analogy for user guidance.
  • Agent methodology integration for CRM and AMS platforms, with a focus on AgencyZoom and other CRMs, supporting sales teams and retention pipeline.
  • Importance of choices in business, envisioning using an Android app in a meeting and checking a customer’s SentiMeter score.
  • Passionate mission to help agents with tech platform, creating wins and preventing losses.

About Thomas Mann, AAI: A Customer-Driven Leader in the Insurance and Business Development Arena

Thomas Mann, holding the prestigious AAI (Accredited Adviser in Insurance) designation, stands as a testament to excellence in the insurance industry. Currently leading as the Director of Customer Success at Aureus Analytics since March 2022, Thomas has carved a niche for himself as a customer-centric leader passionate about driving growth and innovation in the insurance space.

A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Thomas majored in Management and Society with a focus on economics and sociology, equipping him with a unique blend of skills to understand and navigate the complex interplay of management actions within a societal context. His academic journey also included a stint at East Carolina University studying Political Science, further broadening his understanding of societal structures and governance.

Before his current role at Aureus Analytics, Thomas honed his skills in customer success management at AgencyZoom, where he led a team of Success Specialists from 2020 to 2022. This role saw him overseeing client onboarding and helping them transition from prospects to power users, a testament to his commitment to client satisfaction and product engagement.

Thomas’s journey in the insurance industry began at North Carolina Farm Bureau, where he served as an Agent from 2014 to 2018. His role involved designing and implementing comprehensive insurance programs, emphasizing customer service and policy service, a foundation that has clearly shaped his customer-first approach in his subsequent roles. His experience at Insurance of the Carolinas as an Insurance Advisor further solidified his expertise in the field.

In a project management role at USAWeb Asset Group from 2013 to 2014, Thomas demonstrated his versatility and leadership skills, managing contractors, negotiating contracts, and ensuring project objectives were met with productivity and quality.

His active involvement in various activities and societies during his university years, such as Delta Upsilon Fraternity, Order of the Bell Tower, UNC Waterski Club, and Offshore Carolina SCUBA Club, reflects his dynamic personality and ability to engage in diverse interests.

Thomas’s skills in sales and customer service are well recognized, as evident from multiple endorsements he has received in these areas. His accomplishments include winning the NC Farm Bureau Sportsman Holiday Contest in October 2015, showcasing his exceptional performance in the sales force.

As a speaker and participant in various industry events, including InsurEXPO23 and the Big I New York – Go Big event, Thomas continues to make significant contributions to the insurance sector. His commitment to the field is also exemplified by his volunteering efforts with organizations like SEEDS NC, highlighting his dedication to community service and environmental causes.

Thomas Mann is not just an accomplished professional in the insurance and business development sectors; he is a visionary leader and an advocate for customer success, always eager to explore new opportunities and drive innovation in the ever-evolving world of insurance technology.

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
Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

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

Email [email protected]

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

Virtual Training: http://uppfaststart.com

In Person Training: http://beunstoppablebootcamp.com

Episode 240: Speaking Your Future Into Existence Through Accountability with Podcast Partner Joel McKinley

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Why do Joel and I emphasize the importance of continuous improvement and personal growth within our coaching programs? We dive deep into the powerful impact of speaking things into existence and the essential role of accountability in achieving personal and professional success. Sharing valuable insights on setting and achieving long-term goals, promoting personal accountability, building trust, and providing coaching for growth and development. Get ready to be empowered and inspired as we explore the transformative potential of accountability in crafting a clear vision and taking intentional actions to make your dreams a reality.

Highlights:

  • Encouragement to aim higher and reach full potential.
  • Accountability and leadership in organizations.
  • Discussing goals, obstacles, and resources in a growth session with potential agent.
  • Retired army veteran finds new purpose in coaching and mentoring others.
  • Role-play calls with advice on critiquing recordings to improve communication and sales skills.
  • Weekly sessions focus on asking meaningful questions to help others clarify and reassess their situations, enabling them to move forward confidently.
  • Program offers direct accountability, guidance, and support to reach desired goals.
  • Setting goals and accountability leads to progress and motivation, as evidenced by a story about a bike ride and the desire to repeat it.

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
Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

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

Email [email protected]

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

Virtual Training: http://uppfaststart.com

In Person Training: http://beunstoppablebootcamp.com

Episode 239: Bringing It All Together with ‘Implementer of the Year’ Finalist Vanessa Kimball

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Today’s episode I have a special guest joining us – Vanessa Kimball, an agency founder and entrepreneur in the insurance industry. With over 30 years of experience and as a finalist for the Implementer of the Year award, Vanessa is here to share valuable insights and strategies for success. Her planning process for the next year has already begun, with each salesperson creating a list of things to do. Vanessa also highlights the agency’s desire to be more involved in the community, connecting with their clients on a deeper level. We dive into various aspects of Vanessa’s agency, Kimball Insurance. From the implementation of automation to better serve customers to the importance of relationships in the insurance industry. Vanessa also shares how her team utilizes video proposals, onboarding videos, and CRM software to enhance client experiences. Let’s continue to learn and grow together.

Highlights:

  • Teams have a sheet for discussing concerns and clarifications, set by staff.
  • Implementing quarterly staff meetings instead of individual ones to discuss agency updates.
  • Setting the vision is important. Being able to complete the vision organizer process helps set the vision for the future.
  • Follow processes, discuss goals, and create a roadmap.
  • Finding video proposals useful for communicating due to time differences. New hires will also be trained for video proposals.
  • Leading by example, sharing your own experience. Good leadership.
  • Automated customer contact leads to an increased response rate.

About Vanessa Kimball:

Vanessa Kimball, CIC, CISR Founder, Owner, and CEO, Kimball Insurance, The Kimball Group

Vanessa was 2023 UPP Implementer of the Year Finalist

Vanessa Kimball stands as a prominent figure in the insurance industry, embodying the roles of Founder, Owner, and CEO at Kimball Insurance, part of The Kimball Group. Her distinguished credentials, Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) and Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR), highlight her extensive expertise and commitment to the field.

Under Vanessa’s leadership, Kimball Insurance has grown into a reputable and trusted entity within The Woodlands, TX. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision have been central to the company’s success, focusing on delivering exceptional insurance services tailored to the diverse needs of their clients.

Vanessa’s journey in the insurance sector is marked by a deep understanding of the intricacies of insurance policies and an unwavering dedication to client service. This combination of knowledge and passion for customer satisfaction has established her as a respected leader in her community.

Her professional profile, which can be explored in more depth on platforms like LinkedIn, showcases her journey and achievements in the industry. Vanessa’s approach to business is client-centered, ensuring that every aspect of Kimball Insurance is aligned with the goal of providing comprehensive, reliable, and personalized insurance solutions.

As a thought leader and innovator, Vanessa continues to drive her company forward, adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of the insurance world while maintaining the high standards of service and integrity that Kimball Insurance is known for.

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
Website: http://unstoppableprofitproducer.com/

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

Email [email protected]

Podcast: http://unstoppableprofitpodcast.com

Virtual Training: http://uppfaststart.com

In Person Training: http://beunstoppablebootcamp.com

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