Joel Poythress: NOVA AI and VoIP Redefine Agency Efficiency

When you're building a book of business, you control your own destiny. If you hit a plateau, it's easy to blame the product or to blame the market, but often times, the problem is you. Today, Angus Nelson, Founder and Executive Coach at Evolve Leadership, joins the show to talk about creating lifetime value and taking control of your outcomes. He discusses innovation, mindset, seeking intentional coaching and more. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Evolve Leadership: https://www.evolveleadership.org/business LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 Angus Nelson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angusnelson/?originalSubdomain=pt 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.

If you have not yet CLEARLY DEFINED what your ideal client both is and is not then you're probably making only $0.50 on the $1 of what you could be earning. That's right. Not clearly defining your ideal client is costing you money -- a lot of money! You not only need to know what you will say "Yes!" to but also what you will say "No!" to in order to enjoy million-dollar success.  In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht explains how to define your ideal client, what types of things to say yes or no to, and why clearly defining your ideal client is the secret to being a successful Millionaire Insurance Producer. Key Topics: Risks of being a generalist insurance agent The concept and benefits of micro-niching Identifying the type of client you truly want The relationship between your ideal client and your lifestyle Strategies to determine and attract your ideal client The significance of saying no to certain clients or opportunities Practical steps to define and target your ideal client base Reach out to  Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Insurance Agency, Inc.

In this episode of Agency Intelligence podcast, host Jason Cass interviews Joel Poythress, Chief Revenue Officer at Lightspeed Voice. Joel discusses innovations in communication technology, AI integration, and the future of productivity in the insurance industry. Key Topics: Joel’s 30-year telecom experience and role in Lightspeed Voice’s growth. Lightspeed Voice’s focus on in-house development and white-glove customer service. Nova AI’s capabilities: call summaries, sentiment analysis, and transcriptions. Lightspeed Solutions’ IT services complementing VoIP for a full tech stack. The future of AI-powered phone systems automating quotes and workflows. Enhancing work-life balance through productivity improvements and tech. Real-world AI applications transforming agency operations. Reach out to: Joel Poythress Jason Cass Visit Website:  Lightspeed Voice Agency Intelligence Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of the "Stuff About Money" podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, CHFC®, BFA®, welcomes back his good friend John Hupalo from mycollegecorner to discuss college financing. This is part one of their conversation, where they tackle FAFSA season and share insights, tips, and a few laughs about the sometimes overwhelming process of financial aid applications. They also explore common misconceptions about financial aid and how to best prepare for the application process. Erik humorously suggests that having a therapist on speed dial might be a wise choice for families navigating these financial waters together! Join Erik and John as they explore the rising costs of college tuition and the various ways families can prepare financially. From the complexities of federal loans to the realities of saving for college, this episode is packed with valuable information—and a few light-hearted moments about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with planning for higher education. In part two of their conversation, they will discuss the different loan options available to students. Whether you're a parent with a college-bound child or just curious about the financial aid landscape, this conversation is sure to enlighten! Episode Highlights: John explains why FAFSA opens each year and its importance for families with college-bound students. (1:07) John discusses FAFSA’s purpose in determining eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. (5:55) John advises high-income families on why completing FAFSA can still matter for scholarships and federal loans. (11:02) John explains contributor roles in FAFSA and how separated or divorced parents should provide financial information. (19:00) John breaks down the Student Aid Index (SAI), its difference from the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), and its implications for aid eligibility. (25:00) John explains the value of federal student loans for students and contrasts them with the pitfalls of Parent PLUS Loans. (30:15) John emphasizes the importance of early financial conversations with students to set realistic college expectations. (35:10) John advises families to leverage professional judgment if their financial circumstances change significantly after FAFSA submission. (41:00) Key Quotes: “Saving a dollar today is better than borrowing one tomorrow. We actually registered that trademark. We love that.” - John Hupalo “Every single student is eligible, like Bill Gates’ kids, you know, they’re all eligible for federal student loans.” - John Hupalo “Financial fit is important because academically and socially, it might be a great fit, but you have to know what’s realistic financially.” - John Hupalo Resources Mentioned: John Hupalo mycollegecorner Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

How would you like to have a $2,500,000 Book of Business (commission)? Sure, we all would. Well, that's what my client--Guffy Wright--from The Mahoney Group was able to accomplish in less than five years after working with me for 1-on-1 coaching! If you're a P&C or EB producer struggling with Micro-Niche selection, differentiation, leveling-up, mindset issues, limiting beliefs, or not getting enough signed Broker of Record Letters from your prospects, then stay tuned.  In this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht interviews his client, Guffy Wright, about exactly what to do or not do in order to grow your Book of Business to well over $1,000,000 or more annually. Key Topics: Guffy Wright's transition from a stagnant $700,000 to a $2.5 million commission in just a few years. The importance of targeting the right account size and client type for substantial growth. How a shift in mindset and approach can lead to significant progress in the insurance industry. The transition from a local to a national client base and the impact of virtual sales. Emphasis on Broker of Record letters over traditional quoting for business expansion. The role of ideal client identification in growing an insurance book of business. Guffy Wright's insights on balancing professional growth with personal commitments. Reach out to  Guffy Wright Charles Specht Visit: The Mahoney Group Permission Network Insurance Agency, Inc.

In this episode of Front Cover: A Rough Notes Podcast on the Agency Intelligence Podcast Network, Jason Cass sits down with Jeff Wingate, Executive Vice President & Head of Insurance at Rate Insurance, the agency featured on the December 2024 front cover of Rough Notes Magazine.  Key Topics: Jeff shares the impact of being featured on the Rough Notes cover. A fintech-driven approach using Salesforce for efficiency. Diversifying revenue through partnerships with loan officers and inspection companies. Using AI and data to enhance agent recommendations and client experiences. Targeting small commercial lines for growth in underserved areas. Strategic tech investments to handle rate challenges in key markets. Highlighting data’s future value as a key revenue source for agencies. Reach out to: Jeff Wingate Jason Cass Visit Website: Rate Insurance Rough Notes Magazine Episode Sponsors: This episode is brought to you by The McGowan Companies. For more information about all their insurance products, visit mcgowancompanies.com/frontcover. Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode, James reflects on the podcast's purpose, shares personal insights, and invites listener feedback to shape its future in 2025.  https://www.jamesjenkins.com/podcasts/agency-freedom/ to join our email list and catch up on episodes you may have missed. Connect with Agency Freedom on Facebook at the Agency Freedom group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at [email protected] with ideas, requests, complaints or suggestions for how we can make the show better. Key Topics: Reflecting on the purpose and challenges of solo podcasting. Plans to pause in December to reassess direction and content for 2025. Insights on balancing time, money, and freedom in business and life. Delegating, using systems, and leveraging technology for sustainable growth. Honest discussion about mental health, self-care, and finding equilibrium. Gratitude for listener support and a call for feedback to guide the podcast’s future.

Are you a P&C or EB producer who is struggling to set enough new business appointments? Or, maybe you're just not able to close and win enough clients? Do you have too much pressure on you to succeed and you need to start delivering some positive results -- ASAP? If that at all describes where you're at right now then stay tuned because, in this throwback episode of the Millionaire Insurance Producer podcast, host Charles Specht will tell, motivate, encourage, and give you the basic blueprint for what you need to do to win your next 100 clients and build your Book of Business to $1,000,000 or more. And, as a hint for what's to come ..... it all boils down to your "intent" and your "system" for prospecting.  Key Topics: Overcoming the pressure and challenge of client acquisition in insurance sales The concept of finding your ideal 100 clients for sustainable business growth Importance of intention and having a systematic approach in sales Strategies to identify and approach your target client segment The role of micro-niching and account size in building your client base Avoiding the 'sales drift' and staying proactive in client acquisition Developing and implementing effective sales systems and processes Reach out to  Charles Specht Visit: Permission Network Insurance Agency

In this episode of "The Stuff About Money They Didn't Teach You in School," host Erik Garcia welcomes Bradley Flowers, co-host of "The Insurance Guys Podcast" and owner of Portal Insurance. Bradley shares his unique perspective on improving both golf scores and financial health by focusing on making fewer bad decisions rather than striving for perfection. They discuss how this approach can lead to better outcomes in wealth-building and entrepreneurship. Bradley and Erik explore common financial mistakes and strategies to avoid them, drawing parallels between golf and financial decision-making. Bradley also shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of long-term success by minimizing errors.  Tune in to learn how a shift in mindset can enhance both your financial literacy and your golf game. Episode Highlights: Bradley shares his experience with VR golf and how it helps him practice managing mistakes. (02:07) Bradley’s story of playing with a PGA coach and the lessons on controlling risk and avoiding catastrophic mistakes. (05:27) Bradley shares a personal anecdote about winning a dollar from a PGA tour golfer and how smart risk-taking led to success. (12:29) Erik explains a lesson from his mentor on the importance of choosing safe, consistent gains over risky decisions. (15:23) Bradley shares his approach to avoiding financial mistakes by consulting with a financial advisor. (20:41) Bradley discusses the value of hiring for weaknesses and the difference between business focus and overextending with multiple ventures. (29:26) Bradley discusses how prioritizing relationships over profits helped him gain valuable business insights. (37:21) Erik and Bradley conclude with reflections on avoiding hasty decisions by surrounding oneself with supportive people. (44:46) Key Quotes: “My whole strategy in a nutshell is to never put all the chips on the table. You know what I mean? Like I'm never going to put everything at risk. And, you know, I think it's having good people around you because it's easier.” - Bradley Flowers “Your education is really the only thing that can’t be taken away from you. It’s the relationships and the connections...like that’s really where the value is.” - Bradley Flowers “Build your strengths, not your weaknesses, don’t put it all on the table, be smart.” - Bradley Flowers Resources Mentioned: Bradley Flowers LinkedIn The Insurance Guys Podcast Portal Insurance Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Trent Tillman, President and Chief Revenue Officer of TrueNorth Insurance, joins us to share the extraordinary growth story of the agency, scaling from under $10 million to over $140 million in revenue. Listeners will gain insights into a leading agency's strategic vision for growth. The discussion also covers the company's expansion across multiple locations, its robust internship program, and its approach to retaining top talent in a competitive market. Additionally, Trent shares valuable lessons on balancing large-scale growth with community involvement, emphasizing organic growth and specialization as keys to sustained success. Tune in to learn about the transformative power of effective leadership and mentorship as we explore TrueNorth's remarkable journey from a startup to a success story and its ongoing commitment to fostering growth and excellence. To learn more about programs helping accelerate agencies growth, visit www.sitkins.com