From Hurricane Sandy to COVID-19: Leadership Lessons from Former Guardian Life CEO Deanna Mulligan

Join us as we sit down with Deanna Mulligan, CEO of Purposeful and former CEO of Guardian Life Insurance Company, to uncover her inspiring journey and unwavering passion for helping people. From the profound messages in her bestselling book "Higher Purpose" to the real-world lessons learned during Hurricane Sandy, Deanna reveals how preparing employees for technological changes through education and training is crucial for any business. Reflecting on how these experiences ensured a seamless transition during the COVID-19 pandemic, Deanna emphasizes the vital role of a skilled and motivated workforce ready to face unforeseen challenges.    Deanna also shares her insights on how AI and cloud-native software are set to revolutionize underwriting, product development, and policy administration. Discover the industry's ongoing efforts to reach underserved markets and the innovative approaches to making insurance more accessible and affordable. We also discuss the significant role of women in sales and the importance of fostering a culture of communication, retaining top talent, and encouraging diverse educational backgrounds.   Deanna M. Mulligan, CEO of PURPOSEFUL, draws on her extensive leadership background as former CEO and Chairman of Guardian Life Insurance. She serves as a trusted advisor leveraging her roles as Board Director at Vanguard and DuPont, and previously at ARCH Capital. Deanna also advises Guild Education and other private equity-funded start-ups. Recognized for her influence, she has been listed five times among Fortune's Most Powerful Women and is a noted best-selling author.  About Purposeful: An advisory firm for CEOs and C-level executives focusing on corporate governance, career development, and reskilling.  The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.   Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.   Discussion points:  Deanna Mulligan discusses her journey and values, Hurricane Sandy and COVID.  Deanna's transition from consulting to life insurance industry leadership.  Hurricane Sandy's wake-up call for tech preparedness.  Future trends: AI, cloud-native software, and insurance industry transformation.  Enhancing accessibility and affordability for underserved insurance markets.  Diverse career paths in insurance, emphasizing women in sales.  CEO's role in integrating external insights into company strategy.  Importance of communication and one-on-one interactions for retaining talent.  Deanna's hobbies and their impact on creativity.  Final reflections on Deanna's leadership journey and future endeavors. 

What if your life insurance policy could actually help you live a longer, healthier life? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brooks Tingle, CEO of John Hancock, as he reveals how this 162-year-old company is using cutting-edge technology and wellness programs to revolutionize the insurance industry. From the emotional journeys of policyholders to the impact of significant historical events like 9-11, Brooks shares his personal experiences and the lessons that have shaped his mission-driven leadership approach.  Brooks emphasizes how digital adoption and regional diversification provide resilience and growth opportunities, especially in markets spanning the US, Canada, and Asia. He also touches on the revolutionary potential of AI and data in making life insurance more personalized and accessible. Brooks' candid reflections on leadership, innovation, and purpose offer valuable insights for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in the evolving world of insurance.   Brooks Tingle is the President and Chief Executive Officer of John Hancock, the U.S. segment of Manulife Financial Corporation based in Toronto. Leading from Boston, he oversees one of the nation's largest life insurers, providing financial products to over ten million Americans, including life insurance and annuities. Mr. Tingle assumed his current role in 2023 after serving as President and CEO of John Hancock Insurance, where he pioneered the innovative John Hancock Vitality program. With a background in marketing, strategy, and operations, he has strengthened the company's capabilities in advanced analytics and customer service. Mr. Tingle holds an MBA from Boston University and a B.A. in Economics from the University of New Hampshire.  The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.   Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.   Discussion points:  John Hancock's CEO Brooks Tingle shares insights on modernizing life insurance, his personal journey, and the importance of real customer interactions.  Integrating wellness incentives into life insurance policies aligns customer and company interests, promoting healthier behaviors.  John Hancock innovates life insurance with advanced tests, GLP-1 medications, and the Vitality program for improved customer experience.  Global leadership, digital adoption, diversification, AI, and data are key in driving growth and resilience.  Vitality overcame skepticism by making data sharing voluntary, transparent, and beneficial, while also simplifying life insurance for underserved markets.  Effective leadership in the insurance industry: mission, innovation, teamwork; finding meaning and making an impact; balancing ambition and practicality.  John Hancock's Vitality program benefits policyholders and advisors, and Eth...

How can the traditional world of life insurance adapt and thrive using cutting-edge technology without losing the human touch that clients value?  Join us for an inspiring conversation with Christian Mitchell, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Northwestern Mutual. Christian shares the challenges and innovations reshaping the insurance industry today, along with Northwestern Mutual's efforts to modernize their data infrastructure, focusing on transitioning to a client-centered data model and cleaning up data debt. Acknowledging certain challenges such as change management, Christian emphasizes the importance of design thinking and upskilling employees and advisors.   Leadership and talent retention are critical themes as Christian offers insights into creating a respectful and enjoyable work environment while delivering solutions. He shares strategies for attracting top technology talent and advice for young professionals seeking to develop a broad skill set at the intersection of business and technology.   The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.   Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.   Discussion points:  Background and career path to Northwestern Mutual  Looking into the future - AI will be ‘propulsive’  Increases in longevity may require new value propositions for core products  Protect and prosper  Insurance data models need improvement  Data debt, privacy, client concerns increasing  Obstacles at Northwestern Mutual, change management  Successes   Talent acquisition - 3000 individuals recruited every year!  Long-term care is vital coverage that needs development  Christian’s day-to-day leadership focus  Non-work topics and interests - vintage guitars, Lake Michigan summers, reading Lord of the Rings in French, advice  Resources:  Christian Mitchell LinkedIn   Northwestern Mutual   Peter Colis LinkedIn    Ethos Life Insurance  

In this episode, host Peter Colis welcomes Susie Keisler-Munro, the CEO of Assurity Insurance and a dynamic leader who has been on the forefront of innovation in the industry. Assurity is a life and supplemental health insurance company and was one of Ethos' first partners.   Tune in to hear about Susie’s extensive background in the field, ranging from her initial role as an actuary to her current position as CEO, providing valuable insights on a variety of topics. The discussion encompass the role of leadership in the insurance industry, strategies for navigating the complexities of insurance, and the transformation of Assurity under her guidance. Additionally, Susie shares her views on the importance of innovation in insurance, giving a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the sector.  Since 1890, Assurity’s stability and financial strength have stood the test of time. Whether paying benefits to protect you and your family, offering service with a human touch, giving back to the community or practicing sustainability for the good of the planet, the Assurity team embraces the capacity to improve lives.  The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.   Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.     Discussion points:  Susie’s background and extensive insurance background, including an actuarial role  Leadership in insurance   Core Markets, Products, and Differentiators  Transformation of Assurity under Munro's leadership   Assurity and InsureTex  Allocating resources to new concept ideas   Analysis of challenges   Exploration of opportunities within the insurance industry  Munro's in-depth understanding of the sector   Future of Life and Health Insurance   Insurance Advice for Young Professionals  Favorite Vacation Spots and Personal Growth    Resources:  Susie Keisler-Munro Profile  Assurity Insurance  Peter Colis LinkedIn  Ethos Life Insurance 

Host Peter Colis sits down with Eric Olson, the charismatic CEO of Global Financial Impact, as he recounts his remarkable transformation from a toll booth operator to the architect of a thriving life insurance empire. Eric's candid storytelling reveals the essence of entrepreneurship, highlighting the pivotal moments that propelled him forward and the decision to pioneer a new path in the life insurance world after parting ways with World Financial Group. His commitment to fostering a sense of ownership among his team is a testament to his innovative leadership, setting a new standard in an industry ripe for change. GFI's unique approach to life insurance that champions living benefits, affirming the company's dedication to enhancing clients' lives beyond mere financial security. Building a $300 million business wasn't an overnight feat; it required unwavering trust and a focus on long-term relationships, underscored by a staggering 90% persistency rate. The conversation also spotlights GFI's groundbreaking partnership with Ethos and the impact of technology in expediting policy approvals. Emerging leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs, take note - this episode is a treasure trove of insights on building a legacy, the importance of a diverse team, and the drive required to succeed in the fast-paced world of life insurance. A former college athlete turned millionaire entrepreneur, Eric founded GFI, a financial services company focused on client success and fair compensation. Driven by his "5 Fs" values (faith, family, finance, fitness, fun), Eric inspires and trains others to achieve financial freedom. Aiming to empower 1,000 people across North America, Eric leverages his competitive spirit and experience to help clients and build successful brokers. A dedicated family man, Eric enjoys traveling and coaching his kids' sports teams. The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.  Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.  Discussion points: Eric Olson - from toll booth to CEO Building Global Financial Impact's successful culture Putting the “life” in life insurance Leadership, team empowerment, and true ownership at GFI GFI's innovative approach redefines traditional life insurance perspectives Client satisfaction - 90% persistency rate, no cold calls Ethos partnership sets new standards for policy approvals, payouts Olson's leadership principles: conviction,...

Join Peter Colis as he sits down with David Sweitzer, President – Business Units, Sales & Marketing at TruStage, in a candid chat that traces his unique career trajectory from a fresh college graduate in sales to a top-tier executive. Discover how David's commitment to a customer-centric approach has fueled TruStage's expansion, supporting credit unions and touching the lives of millions of consumers. He shares his personal journey, one that took an unexpected turn away from a passion for music to forging a fulfilling career path in insurance and financial services. Along the way, David infuses humor and reflective wisdom on the serendipitous nature of professional growth, emphasizing the role of adaptability in today's ever-changing work landscape.  Our conversation delves into the seismic shifts transforming insurance, where technology meets empathy to enhance customer interactions and safeguard against fraud. David offers a treasure trove of insights, from the spike in COVID-19 claim payouts to the democratization of life insurance for the middle market. He also casts a forward-looking gaze at the fusion of insurance products within the burgeoning digital-first economy. Wrapping up with sage advice for the up-and-comers in the industry, David's philosophy of proactive learning and the art of collaboration stands as a testament to his success—and might just be the catalyst you need to navigate your own professional voyage.  The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.   Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.   Discussion points:  David Sweitzer's musical background to insurance leadership  Customer experience is at the heart of TruStage success  Transition from sales graduate to executive management  Automated underwriting balances convenience with fraud prevention  Collaborative efforts enhance service delivery in insurance  Pandemic highlights the need for industry transparency  Career advice: continuous learning, embracing collaboration  Volleyball passion and insights from Gerald Ford biography  Sweitzer's 33-year journey with TruStage  Emphasis on simplified access to insurance products  $2 billion in claims, including COVID-19 payouts  Future focus on digitally native payment protection products  Resources:  David Sweitzer LinkedIn 

In this episode, host Peter Colis welcomes JC Bruckner, the US CEO of SCOR Global Life Americas, a significant player in the reinsurance industry. Bruckner shares his journey from selling life insurance to leading a reinsurance titan, and how his past experiences have influenced his leadership style. The discussion centers on the evolving reinsurance market, the shift from a commodity-driven business to one focused on partnerships, and the impact of data and technology in shaping the industry. Bruckner also provides insights on Score Global Life's approach to closing the insurance gap and leveraging partnerships to meet the needs of the uninsured and underinsured.  JC has served as US CEO of SCOR Global Life Americas since 2015. He is responsible for all aspects of SCOR’s life reinsurance business in the U.S. SCOR is a recognized innovator in the insurance space, offering reinsurance solutions that help clients in the US minimize risk exposure and operate more efficiently. By leveraging worldwide modeling expertise, structuring capabilities & multi-jurisdictional facilities, we help clients efficiently satisfy certain capital and reserve requirements. The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their most significant breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.  Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.  Discussion points: JC’s Journey to CEO Importance of data in shaping strategic decisions Shift from commodity-driven to partnership-based reinsurance SCOR Global Life's innovative Velogica underwriting engine Changing dynamics of client relationships in reinsurance Closing the insurance gap through team and partnerships Collaborations enabling understanding and meeting uninsured needs Potential for tapping into small markets with innovation Bruckner's leadership style and creating a collaborative atmosphere SCOR Global Life's approach to ecosystems Leveraging partnerships for innovation and closing the insurance gap Creating a more competitive and efficient reinsurance market Accelerating underwriting process The role of leade...

In this episode, host Peter Colis, CEO of Ethos, welcomes Barry Clarkson, CEO of Equis Financial and managing partner of Integrity Marketing Group. Barry shares his journey in the insurance industry and how his passion for serving middle-income families has shaped his approach to life insurance, college education, and retirement plans.  With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Barry has built a successful business focusing on the needs of middle-income families in their most vulnerable moments. He discusses his experiences with Equis Financial, the challenges faced in this market, and the strategies employed to provide comprehensive coverage and services. The recent acquisition of Equis by Integrity Marketing Group opens up new avenues of collaboration and resources, with Barry highlighting the partnership's potential to drive industry growth and innovation. The episode also features insights from Bill Martin, partner of Equis Financial, and Rob Jones, partner of Integrity Marketing Group, discussing their leadership and the virtual business environment during COVID-19. The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.  Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.  Discussion points: Barry Clarkson's accidental entry into the insurance industry in 1980 National Agents Alliance's success with mortgage lead business in the 90s Equus Financial's focus on serving middle-income families' insurance needs Challenges and strategies in providing comprehensive coverage for middle-income families Equus Financial's acquisition by Integrity Marketing Group, driving growth and innovation Adapting to the virtual business environment during the COVID-19 pandemic Equus' unique approach to training and agent empowerment The technology developed to help agents stay in business and track progress The importance of accurate communication and maintaining a strong culture The passion for helping families in vulnerable times through life insurance Understanding the nuances of serving the middle-income market Equus' growth during COVID-19 and adapting to agent and consumer needs

In this episode, host Peter Colis welcomes Shawn Meaike, Founder, CEO, and President of Family First Life. Family First Life was launched in 2013 and has grown into a multi-million-dollar insurance organization. As Shawn describes it, he is “building a company that truly puts both the families of our clients and the families of our agents first.” Family First Life is now represented by over 17,000 licensed agents in almost all 50 states marketing mortgage protection, final expense, life insurance, and annuities. The company is projected to reach over $600 million dollars in issued paid premiums.  You’ll hear Shawn’s inspiring journey from being a social worker to heading a successful insurance company and the evolution of Family First Life. Shawn shares the challenges he faced on his way to success, his leadership principles, and his family-centric approach to business. The discussion also covers the company's expanded range of insurance products and services, and their new partnership with Ethos. You’ll also hear valuable insights and lessons for personal and professional growth. The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.  Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.  Discussion points: Shawn Meaike’s journey from social worker to insurance industry leader The evolution of Family First Life over the past decade Discussion on company culture and putting agents and customers first Difficulties faced, including their CRM system shutting down Expansion of insurance products and services  Partnership with Ethos and the impact on the business Shawn's leadership principles and family-centric approach to business The importance of staying humble and hungry in business Mentoring new leaders and fostering a culture of respect and growth How COVID-19 has affected the insurance industry and Family First Life Shawn's insights on navigating industry complexities and fostering transparency Resources: Shawn Meaike Profile Shawn Meaike LinkedIn

In this episode, host Peter Colis welcomes Priscilla Hung, President and COO of Guidewire. Priscilla shares her journey from the tech world to a leadership role in the insurance industry. She discusses Guidewire's transformation from a startup to a dominant provider of core admin systems for property and casualty insurance carriers and the company's transition from mainframes to on-prem systems and the cloud. Additionally, she shares her insights on the rapid implementation of AI and IoT, strategies for maximizing the efficiency of enterprise sales cycles and attracting and retaining top talent in the industry. Guidewire is a leading provider of core administrative systems to property and casualty insurance carriers. With a background in engineering, Hung has held various roles throughout her 18-year tenure at Guidewire, helping the company transform from a startup to an industry leader. Prior to joining Guidewire, Hung worked at Oracle and Sun Microsystems. The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level.  Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first.  Discussion points: Priscilla Hung's journey from Oracle to Guidewire leadership. Guidewire's transformation from startup to industry leader Challenges in transitioning from mainframes to cloud systems Rapid implementation of AI and IoT in insurance Maximizing efficiency of enterprise sales cycles Attracting and retaining top talent in the industry Mobile devices and augmented reality for customer engagement Explosive growth of IoT and telematic devices Dynamic pricing for policyholders through technology Differences between P&C and life insurance markets Personal growth, vacations, and work-life balance Guidewire's focus on P&C insurance market Transitioning insurance carriers from on-prem to cloud Guidewire's core system products for P&C carriers Emerging technology trends transforming the insurance landscape ...