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Agency Intelligence: The Insurance Podcast Network

Business & Economics Podcasts

The Agency Intelligence Podcast Network is the top insurance podcast network with many unique series that let you hear from both insurance agency owners and insurance industry influencers. Learn from real insurance agents in real insurance agencies, get the latest and greatest that thought leaders in the insurance industry have to offer, and more!

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United States

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The Agency Intelligence Podcast Network is the top insurance podcast network with many unique series that let you hear from both insurance agency owners and insurance industry influencers. Learn from real insurance agents in real insurance agencies, get the latest and greatest that thought leaders in the insurance industry have to offer, and more!

Language:

English


Episodes
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The Scratch Agency: From Zoom to the Room |Spring Webinar & DC Meetup Preview

4/23/2025
We’re excited to welcome The Scratch Agency Podcast to the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network! Hosted by Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald, this show follows their real-time journey as scratch agency owners - sharing wins, challenges, and the mindset it takes to dig deep, believe in yourself, and own your future. In Episode 114, Shawn goes solo to share exciting updates and insights for agency owners and entrepreneurs. He dives into the growing impact of virtual employees, announces the upcoming Scratch Agency Meetup, and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the elevated video production planned for the event. It’s a value-packed episode you won’t want to miss!

Duration:00:14:52

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GPP: How Face-to-Face Meetings Can Set You Apart, with Michael Bodack

4/23/2025
Let’s face it… tech is taking over! But sometimes, nothing beats the power of a face-to-face meeting. In this throwback episode, originally aired on February 8, 2023, we sit down with Michael Bodack to explore how personal connection can be the ultimate sales differentiator. Michael breaks down his proven approach to client relationships and reveals strategies to stay competitive in a digital-first world. Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/ Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com/ LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett Ryan Brott Michael Bodack This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT’S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can’t. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

Duration:00:46:37

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Stuff About Money: Episode 87: Dollar Cost Averaging: Your 401(k)’s Superpower

4/22/2025
In this episode of the Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School podcast, certified financial planner Erik Garcia speaks directly to those regularly investing in a 401(k), 403(b), or IRA. With the market constantly shifting, it can be tempting to pause contributions and wait for “better” times. But that move might cost you more than you think. Erik explains why dollar cost averaging—investing consistently regardless of market conditions—is actually your retirement plan’s greatest superpower. You’ll hear about three powerful benefits of dollar cost averaging, along with two real challenges that make it tough to stick with. This episode is all about helping you stay confident and committed to your long-term plan—even when the headlines say otherwise. If you're wondering whether to keep investing through market noise, this one’s for you. Episode Highlights: Erik explains the concept of dollar cost averaging and why it's a hidden 401(k) superpower. (01:01) Erik outlines how volatility can be an opportunity for 401(k) investors through consistent investing. (03:21) Erik shares how dollar cost averaging helps remove emotional decision-making from investing. (04:28) Erik emphasizes the role of automated discipline in building long-term wealth. Erik cautions that dollar cost averaging doesn't remove investment risk and long-term perspective is key. (06:23) Erik warns about the emotional challenge of staying invested during market drops. (07:57) Erik encourages investors to keep contributing, and possibly increase contributions, during down markets. (09:00) Key Quotes: “ The third benefit of dollar cost averaging is you are building a very important habit that's gonna help you build wealth, and that is discipline.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “ investing in a down market is actually a very good long-term investment strategy, so stay invested. Keep investing. Use your superpower, your dollar cost averaging superpower to build your wealth in your 401k.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Duration:00:12:58

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A New World Wide Web Is Being Created Just For Business

4/22/2025
In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Landry Fields, Agency Owner at Nova Insurance about the rise of agentic AI, how it's different from bots, and what it means for staffing, tech, and the future of independent agencies. Key Topics: What sets AI agents apart from basic automation tools How a new MCP-based internet could power future automation Agentic AI is here and doesn't need human supervision Licensed roles may be the first to disappear in leaner agencies Every agency will need a CTO to manage tech and automation Automation can cut task costs from $7.50 to just 17 cents Agencies that adapt quickly will outperform larger competitors Reach out to: Landry Fields Jason Cass Visit Website: Nova Insurance Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:45:06

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: Throwback: MINDSET

4/21/2025
MIND SET. You're either strong in the area of confidence and mindset, or you're a weak little puppy. Which one is it? Insurance agents who lack confidence tend to write fewer new accounts each year, they write smaller accounts, and they don't win many (any?) signed Broker of Record Letters. The opposite is also 100% true: Insurance producers who are confident and in the right frame of mind set more appointments and write more accounts, they write larger revenue accounts, and they win significantly more clients through signed Broker of Record Letter. In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will not only tell you why MINDSET is so important for an insurance producer but he'll tell you the basic things you need to do -- today! -- in order to start dominating and winning! ---------- PS: Remember, the "PERMISSION PRODUCER SCHOOL" is launching on October 14, 2024. It will give you the blueprint for sales success which, in turn, gives you a strong mindset in order to do all of the above. Get registered right away as the price will be increasing very soon! Learn more and get registered at: www.PermissionProducerSchool.com Key Topics: Confidence comes from having a personalized plan and a clear value proposition Struggles with mindset are common when producers don’t differentiate their offerings Focusing on a specific micro-niche builds confidence and drives better results Generalists often struggle; specialization helps producers stand out and win business The Permission Producer School provides vital sales training to improve prospecting and scripting A well-defined process allows producers to confidently ask for and secure business Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Producer School Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:24:14

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: You Will Reap What You Sow (in both Life & Sales)

4/17/2025
You get out what you put in. You win championships when you do the good work. You reap what you sow. These are the realities of what happens to people (and teams) who do the right things over and over again. Success comes to those who do the right work and stay consistent. Last time I checked, none of your insurance carriers pay any "consolation commission" when you come in 2nd place. It's all or nothing, baby! If you sow inactivity, you will reap the wind. If you sow inactivity for long periods of time, you'll reap the whirlwind. If you don't do the proper prospecting work, you won't schedule any new business appointments or win any signed BOR's or secure any deposit checks. The choice is yours. In this podcast episode, host Charles Specht reminds, motivates, and guides you on what and why you need to reconsider what you're doing in order to get the results you actually want. Key Topics: Why being busy doesn’t mean being productive The real reason you’re not getting appointments or BORs How second place in sales pays nothing literally The time audit every producer needs to do How the wrong daily tasks kill your commissions Why consistent prospecting is the only path to winning Imperfect action beats perfect inaction every time Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:20:16

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: Throwback: The Perfect Script for Cold Calling and Overcoming Objections

4/14/2025
Cold Calling is never much fun, but it can become your pot of gold at the end of a rainbow if you can figure out the proper Script and get your delivery of the Script down pat with both enthusiasm and confidence. Most insurance agents have a lame, tired, and worn-out Script that makes them sound like every other agent out there. Don't be that agent! In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will give you actual examples of what your C3 (Cold Call Carrot) and Script should be in order to be more successful when cold calling. Then, Charles will walk you through how to overcome the two main Objections you will hear: 1) We're happy with our agent, and 2) Now is not a good time. These will help you set more new business appointments with less time prospecting. PS: The "Permission Producer School" is getting ready to launch on October 14th, 2024. Are you signed up yet? Charles Specht created (and will teach) the Permission Producer School as an intensive 3-week training program to help new(er) Producers write their first $100,000 of commission in their first 6-9 months, and then scale up to $250,000 in commission in their first 15-18 months in the industry. To learn more about "PERMISSION PRODUCER SCHOOL" visit: www.PermissionProducerSchool.com Key Topics: Introduction to cold calling and its crucial role in insurance sales Overview of the Permission Producer School, focusing on sales techniques for producers Crafting the right script and delivery; introducing the "Cold Call Carrot (C3)." Using "price plus something" in your script to meet prospects' needs Overcoming objections with ethical dilemmas to secure meetings Examples of industry-specific scripts and tailoring messages for micro-niches Encouragement to adopt a fresh approach for more effective prospecting Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Producer School Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:37:33

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Stuff About Money: How To Prep Your Finances for the Next Recession (Throwback Episode)

4/8/2025
In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn't Teach You in School, I (Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™) take a solo journey back to 2019—pre-COVID, pre-pandemic stimulus, pre-whatever the heck this current economy is. It's wild to think how much has changed… and how much has stayed the same. This episode opens with a confusing encounter with a Polish website and a German iPhone—setting the stage for how disorienting the financial world can feel when recession fears start swirling. And lately? With inflation still lingering, market volatility, and general unease—it's giving déjà vu all over again. Though recorded years ago, the financial wisdom in this episode remains rock solid. I unpack five economic realities that hold true no matter the cycle, explain key market terms you’re probably hearing more of, and walk through a 4-step plan that works at any income level. Whether you're nervous about what's next or just want to make smarter money moves, this episode is a reminder that fear doesn’t have to drive your decisions—clarity and preparation can. Be sure to follow the show and share it with someone who could use a little financial calm in the chaos. Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Duration:00:30:55

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Rough Notes Front Cover, April 2025: Matt Simon, CoverLink Insurance

4/1/2025
In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Matt Simon, President of CoverLink Insurance, the agency featured on the April 2024 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine. Key Topics: CoverLink Insurance’s rebrand after 100 years to unify multiple agencies The meaning behind "CoverLink" and its mission to protect clients Hiring based on attitude and work ethic over experience Why culture is the key to hiring and retaining top talent How CoverLink attracts young professionals into the insurance industry The role of technology and adaptability in agency growth Leadership lessons from Matt’s father and agency ownership transition Reach out to: Matt Simon Jason Cass Visit Website: CoverLink Insurance Rough Notes Magazine Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:29:20

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Stuff About Money: Episode 86: How to Actually Use Money for Happiness

3/25/2025
We all think having more money will make us happier, but what if the way we instinctively spend it isn’t actually the key to lasting happiness? In this episode of Stuff About Money, Erik Garcia, CFP®, dives into five ways we can use money, and why the thing we want to do with it—buying more stuff—won’t bring us the deep, fulfilling happiness we hope for. Instead, he explores the four things that actually do create happiness: investing in experiences, buying back time, giving generously, and saving for the future. From reflecting on a family trip to Disney World to the conversation we all love to have—“What would you do if you won the lottery?”—this episode challenges the way we think about money and what it can (and can’t) buy. Erik breaks down why spending money on experiences creates memories that last, why buying time back only works if you actually use it wisely, and how generosity is one of the most unexpected happiness boosters. Plus, he explains why saving money isn’t just about financial security—it’s about progress, and progress makes us happy. If you’re looking for a way to shift your mindset on money and happiness, this episode is for you. Tune in, challenge yourself to rethink how you spend, and share this episode with someone who could use a fresh perspective on what really leads to financial joy. Plan wisely, live confidently! Episode Highlights: Erik discusses Arthur Brooks’ research on money and happiness, sharing insights from his book on how financial choices impact well-being. (03:00) Erik explains why experiences create lasting happiness, while material goods lose their appeal over time. (03:47) Erik explores how using money to buy time can lead to greater fulfillment by prioritizing meaningful activities. (06:00) Erik shares why generosity leads to greater life satisfaction, as highlighted in Brooks’ book. (07:00) Erik emphasizes saving as a way to create future opportunities and achieve long-term happiness, a key theme in Brooks’ research. (09:19) Erik explains the deeper purpose of financial success and the importance of using money to support meaningful goals, a key lesson from Brooks’ book. (14:47) Key Quotes: “Spending money on experiences, buying experiences is a lasting investment into happiness and when you can use your money to buy experiences to create shared memories with people you love, that is a ticket to happiness.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “Go out there and find a way to use your money to make a long-term investment in your happiness.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “Every dollar that you save is creating a future opportunity and every dollar you waste represents a wasted opportunity in the future. We don't know what the future holds. So having money in savings is a good way to prepare for the unknown” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Duration:00:17:17

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: Throwback: Your First $250,000 of Commission - (Permission Producer School)

3/24/2025
You know, if a producer doesn't get to $100,000 of commission in a reasonable amount of time, they often either get fired or they find a new job outside of insurance. So, we not only need to help them get to $100,000 of commission but I think -- more importantly -- we need to get them to a $250,000 commission Book of Business as soon as humanly possible. Why? Because, once a producer gets to $250,000 in annual gross commission, they are usually not going to get fired, they're in the insurance business for life, and they're typically making six-figures in annual take home pay themselves. Therefore, that's why I am launching the PERMISSION PRODUCER SCHOOL, which is a 3-week intensive new producer sales training school to help new producers write $250,000 of commission in 1.5-2 years. (Go to www.permissiongroup.com to learn more) Key Topics: The importance of hitting the $100,000 gross commission milestone for job security. The challenge of transitioning from learning to producing quickly in the insurance industry. Strategies for reaching $250,000 in gross commission, including the Permission Producer School. The need to focus on a single micro-niche to accelerate growth from $100,000 to $250,000. Why a shift in strategy is required to move from $250,000 to $650,000 in commissions. Key changes needed to leap from $650,000 to $1.2 million, such as targeting larger accounts. The mindset and strategy shifts necessary to achieve a $3 million book of business. Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Producer School Permission Network Produced by: PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:25:39

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: Throwback: How to Prospect the Low-Hanging Fruit

3/17/2025
I have a confession to make: I firmly believe insurance agents are prospecting all wrong. And, it is not only costing them thousands of dollars every year in new business commission, but they are losing literal weeks (months?) of their lives in the process. But, I also have some good news as well. The good news is that you can be happier as a producer, more successful, get more hours of your life back, and win more frequently. It all boils down to prospecting the low-hanging fruit. In this throwback episode, I (Charles Specht) will tell you what the low-hanging fruit is and also how you can win it! Key Topics: Introduction of "low-hanging fruit" in insurance sales Analogy of picking ripe figs to explain targeting easy opportunities Importance of using the Broker of Record (BOR) letter in acquiring new clients Techniques for identifying and capitalizing on straightforward sales opportunities Discussion on the mindset needed for low-effort, high-return sales approaches Insights into streamlining the sales process by focusing on ready-to-switch clients Encouragement to refine focus on opportunities with the greatest return and least complication Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Produced by: PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:29:09

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GPP: The Four Main Principles of Selling with David Sliman

3/12/2025
How do you earn the right for a prospect's time? How do you set yourself apart from the agency down the street? And how are you being creative with your follow-up? David Sliman, CEO of Sales Proformance Consulting, has led sales teams across multiple industries, including insurance and risk management. He joins us today to discuss his four principles of selling – and it starts with speaking the language of your ideal client. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Sales Proformance Consulting: https://www.salesproformance.com/sales-coaching LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 David Sliman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidslimansalespro This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT’S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can’t. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

Duration:00:44:12

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Stuff About Money: Episode 85: Should You Pay Your Mortgage Off Early?

3/11/2025
Debt. Some people hate it. Some people tolerate it. And when it comes to a mortgage, the debate gets even more interesting. In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, Erik Garcia unpacks the question that’s been on the minds of several clients this week: Should I pay off my mortgage early? With four unique client scenarios—ranging from low-interest-rate borrowers with excess cash flow to high-rate homeowners debating a refinance—Erik highlights why there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Along the way, he shares his personal philosophy on debt (hint: not all debt is created equal) and why blindly following financial advice can sometimes backfire. As the episode unfolds, Erik explores the key factors to consider when making this decision—your interest rate, cash flow, investment potential, and, most importantly, your comfort level with risk. Sure, being mortgage-free sounds appealing, but what if paying it off means leaving yourself cash-poor? Trading your liquidity for a paid-off home might seem like the responsible move, but could it actually be a risky bet? Before you rush to throw extra payments at your mortgage, tune in to this thought-provoking conversation to ensure your financial strategy aligns with your long-term goals. Episode Highlights: Erik outlines four different client situations, each with unique mortgage rates, cash flow, and financial goals. (01:28) Erik discusses key factors to consider when deciding whether to pay off a mortgage early, including interest rates, cash flow, and investment opportunities. (04:10) Erik highlights common reasons people choose to pay off their mortgage early, such as peace of mind, retirement planning, and reduced interest costs. (07:31) Erik breaks down how interest rates impact the decision to invest extra money versus paying down a mortgage. (12:09) Erik explains the role of risk tolerance, noting that some people are comfortable investing while carrying debt, while others feel uneasy. (15:00) Erik explains how homeowners should consider future expenses, like home renovations and unexpected costs, before accelerating mortgage payments. (18:47) Erik encourages listeners to evaluate their own financial situation, use mortgage calculators, and consult a financial planner before making a decision. (21:49) Erik explains why liquidity is crucial and warns against using all available cash to pay off a mortgage too soon. (22:10) Key Quotes: “Risk tolerance and comfort with debt. Some people have the risk tolerance to invest while carrying debt. Others might feel uneasy by having a mortgage balance. So, having a conversation, a thoughtful conversation about how much debt you feel like you can tolerate is important.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “Avoid credit card debt as much as possible, like the plague, car debt, school debt, sometimes it's unavoidable, so you want to be prudent and judicious in that.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Duration:00:26:14

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Rough Notes Front Cover, March 2025: Mike Hotchkiss, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency

3/1/2025
In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Mike Hotchkiss, CEO of Hotchkiss Insurance Agency, the agency featured on the March 2025 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine. Key Topics: The honor of being featured on Rough Notes and its significance. Hotchkiss Insurance’s 50-year journey and industry evolution. The impact of mentorship on leadership and growth. Building a strong company culture through people and purpose. Hotchkiss Helps: Giving back to the community in a big way. Mike shares his approach to leadership and work-life balance. Reach out to: Mike Hotchkiss Jason Cass Visit Website: Hotchkiss Insurance Agency Rough Notes Magazine Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:25:28

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: Embrace the Rejection and Find Your Clients

2/27/2025
Have you ever been rejected when doing your prospecting? Of course you have. Probably thousands of times in your life so far. It comes with the territory. But putting in the work helps you find your people. Getting hundreds of "No's" helps you find the dozens who say, "Yes!" In this episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast host Charles Specht explains how to embrace the rejecting haters when prospecting in order to find the people who want to do business with you and say, "Yes!" ALSO... the next cohort of "PERMISSION PRODUCER SCHOOL" starts on March 3rd - 7th (2025). You don't want to miss out. Learn more and get registered at: www.PermissionProducerSchool.com Key Topics: Embracing rejection as part of the sales process Filtering prospects to find the right clients Prospecting is a numbers game; selling is about relationships Success stories of producers landing high-value accounts Choosing between quantity or quality in your book of business Persistence and strategic messaging lead to more wins Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Producer School Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:24:01

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GPP: Advisor vs. Broker: How to Shift to Driving Value vs. Searching for Sales with Casey Schrader

2/26/2025
"I hate the word broker." Casey Schrader is more a fan of the word advisor. As Regional Sales Manager and Risk Advisor at Oswald Companies, he practices what he preaches. Brokering is about selling a product. Advice is about expanding how you think and how you serve your clients. Casey also dives into marketing and content creation, creating "warm calls" as opposed to cold calls, and driving value with your clients over sales. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Oswald Companies: https://www.oswaldcompanies.com LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 Casey Schrader: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-schrader-clcs-bb7a3229 This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT’S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can’t. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

Duration:00:44:25

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Stuff About Money: Episode 84: Tomorrow Never Comes: Why We Put Off Financial Decisions

2/25/2025
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik and Xavier kick off this episode with a slightly humorous conversation about the unique way people from New Orleans speak—because if nothing else, in The Big Easy, they have their own way of doing things. But that same tendency to do things our way extends beyond language—it also applies to how we handle money. More specifically, how we don’t handle it. That’s right, this episode dives into the all-too-common habit of financial procrastination and why we keep telling ourselves, “I’ll take care of it tomorrow.” Why do we put off saving for retirement, getting life insurance, or investing for the future? It turns out, human nature makes it easy to prioritize today’s wants over tomorrow’s needs. Erik and Xavier explore the psychology behind why we delay crucial financial decisions, touching on everything from marshmallow experiments to why our future selves feel like total strangers. They also break down practical ways to stop stalling and start acting—from automation to visualization and a little bit of accountability (actually, a lot of accountability). Lean into this conversation for a fresh perspective on making smarter financial choices—or at the very least, to expand your New Orleans vocabulary. Episode Highlights: Erik and Xavier discuss common New Orleans phrases and their connection to financial habits. (02:00) Xavier shares a powerful story about a client who delayed purchasing life insurance and faced devastating consequences. (04:32) Erik explains present bias, the tendency to prioritize immediate rewards over future financial security. (09:04) Xavier emphasizes the impact of procrastination on financial planning, especially for business owners. (10:05) Erik introduces the concept of future self-continuity, explaining how people struggle to identify with their future selves. (12:01) Xavier shares a story of a client who secured life insurance just in time, ensuring financial stability for their family. (19:09) Erik breaks down the cost of delaying financial decisions, from rising life insurance premiums to missed investment growth opportunities. (21:12) Xavier stresses the emotional impact of financial procrastination and how it leads to stress, shame, and regret. (27:01) Erik and Xavier outline strategies to overcome procrastination, including visualization, automation, simplification, and accountability. (31:06) Key Quotes: “We're paying for something today, robbing ourselves from the future for something that we consumed yesterday.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “We all understand what we need to do, what we're not doing, what we know we need to do, and we're ashamed because we're not following through.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC “If we can connect our present self to our future self. That's going to help us make more intentional decisions for, uh, for tomorrow.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Duration:00:41:42

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: 3 Things Producers Should Do to Ensure Sales Success

2/24/2025
There are THREE things that if insurance producers did, they would have far more success at prospecting and selling insurance. What are these THREE things you might ask? Well, that's what podcast host Charles Specht will teach you in today's episode on building a $1,000,000 or more Book of Business. Also... The next cohort of PERMISSION PRODUCER SCHOOL starts on March 3, 2025 and goes through to March 7, 2025. It's a virtual sales training program for commercial P&C and EB producers. The sessions last for 2.5 hours daily. If you're interested in learning more, go to: www.PermissionProducerSchool.com Get registered at: www.PermissionProducerSchool.com WHEN IT TAKES PLACE: March 3rd - 7th Key Topics: The power of micro-niching to attract and convert ideal clients Winning BORs with a 12-month service plan Lowering premiums through strategic pre-renewal planning Follow-up cadence is the key to consistent prospecting Keeping prospects engaged without overwhelming them Maximizing outreach efficiency for better results Closing more deals with a proven sales framework Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: www.PermissionProducerSchool.com Permission Network Produced by PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:26:21

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Millionaire Insurance Producer: Throwback: How to Increase Your Quoting Win-Ratio by 50%

2/20/2025
Going for the BOR is always the better option, but sometimes you just have to quote. If you go through a normal quoting process, be sure to get these three (3) things from the prospect. Once you do this, your quote-to-win ratio will increase so much that you could see your new business revenue increase by some 50% annually. That's a lot of commission. It's YOUR new business commission! But only if you get these three buy-in's from your prospect. So, listen and implement. PS: Download a free copy of The Millionaire Producer at: https://permissiongroup.com/the-millionaire-producer/ Key Topics: Understand the significance of the quoting process in the insurance industry The importance of the Broker of Record (BOR) letter Three essential steps to secure more clients and increase commission The importance of exclusive access to key insurance carriers Ensuring guaranteed business through clear agreements on price savings Preventing competitors from getting a last look at quotes Strategies to remind clients of agreed terms during the quoting process Reach out to Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Produced by: PodSquad.fm

Duration:00:34:22