Brad Ruben of Archway Computers joins us to talk about all things IT for independent agencies:

• Cybersecurity and unusual requirements in carrier contracts
• How DMARC impacts your agency emails and what you must do immediately
• Why Multi-factor Authentication is so critical
• One easy-to-use tech tool that customers love
• How AI is being used in agencies today

As an independent agent, it's easy to push IT to the back burner but as Brad explains, having up-to-date software and security procedures is critical. Outsourcing the management of your agency's IT is a good way to reduce the risk of cyber crime and system downtime.

Links:
Archway Computer: myarchway.com

Full show notes and more episodes: Insurance Agency Trendsetters

#041 -  Join us for an engaging discussion as Charlotte Hicks and George Robertson chat with Ron Shroyer from Aureus Analytics about the latest developments in their company over the past two years. In this podcast episode, we dive into the world of insurance technology and its impact on the industry's operations and client services.

 Ron sheds light on the growing utilization of AI and big data analytics in insurance agencies. These technologies are playing a significant role in streamlining operations and improving efficiency, ultimately leading to better service for clients. He also shares insights into Aureus Analytics' successful integrations with management system platforms like Applied and EZLynx, as well as their partnership with Agency Zoom.

 This isn't Ron's first time on our podcast, and his experience and expertise in the insurance industry make for a fascinating conversation. He offers valuable insights into the future of the industry and how technology is driving demand and adoption by new players in the market.

If you're interested in learning more about the evolving landscape of the insurance industry and the role of technology in shaping its future, join us for this informative discussion with Ron Shroyer from Aureus Analytics. 
 

00:35 Revisiting the Journey of Aureus Analytics
00:54 The Evolution of AI in Insurance
01:26 The Impact of AI on Insurance Agencies
02:23 The Role of AI in Customer Retention and Cross-Selling
02:57 The Increasing Interest in AI Among Insurance Agencies
04:12 The Integration of Donna with Other Platforms
04:35 The Difference Between Reporting and Analytics
05:44 The Role of AI in Enhancing Agency Workflows
09:14 The Future of AI in Insurance Agencies
21:27 The Impact of Acquisitions on Tech Adoption in Insurance Agencies
26:38 Emerging Insurtech Solutions

 Links:

Aureus Analytics

Insurance Agency Trendsetters Episode 041 (with full show notes)

Episode #40

Discover how Ali McLaney and Dana Grodin of Digipraise have created an easier, faster, and more affordable way for your customers to update their jewelry appraisals.

What is preventing your customers from keeping their jewelry appraisals current? The hassle of taking their pieces to a jewelry store? The expense of the appraisals? Simply forgetting about them once they are scheduled on the policy?

Digipraise has solved all of these problems and given insureds a quick and affordable way to update their most treasured jewelry.

Listen in as we dive into Ali and Dana's history in the jewelry business, their patented process for streamlining jewelry appraisals, and the unique way they can prevent a total loss of heirloom pieces.

Companies and agencies: Partner with Digipraise to enhance your customer relationships!

Full show notes can be found here:

insuranceagencytrendsetters.com/040-2

 

#039 — George Robertson and Charlotte Hicks look at some of the main challenges facing agents this year and three ways to be successful in 2023. 

They talk about:

• ChatGPT by OpenAI and potential benefits for agents 
• The long-term impact of developments in cryptocurrency
• What to expect from the hard market and anticipated recession
• How insurance coverage could be affected by pandemic court cases
• Challenges finding staff and the role of a remote workforce

Plus, three tips for positioning you and your agency for success in 2023.

A full transcript and previous podcast episodes can be found here

And be sure to click “subscribe” so you don’t miss any upcoming episodes, including unannounced bonus episodes.

#038 — Ron Berg, retiring director of the Agents Council for Technology (ACT) joins us to discuss how technology impacts customer satisfaction, the critical role of cyber security in agencies, and how insurtechs are helping agents serve their customers better. 

Listen in as we talk with Ron about:

• How the customer experience has changed and how it impacts workflows
• What technology touchpoints agents need to implement to build customer loyalty
• How to get access to the ACT resources for free
• The critical role cyber security plays in your technology strategy and the cyber guide developed by ACT
• The emerging technologies that impact agents and their clients
• Where tech is working and where improvement is needed

We also talk about how agencies have adapted with the challenges of the last two years. 

For full show notes and previous podcast episodes go to:

www. Insuranceagencytrendsetters.com/038

And be sure to click “subscribe” so you don’t miss any upcoming episodes, including unannounced bonus episodes.

Links:

Find out more about ACT: IndependentAgent.com/ACT

Email ACT: ACT@IIABA.net

#037 — Jes Lipson, CEO of Levitate joins us to talk about the lost art of keeping in touch and how doing it the right way can spur higher sales and higher agency value. 
 
Just some of what we cover in our discussion:

• The problem with most email services today
• How you can stay top of mind with your prospects and customers
• The difference between networking and building relationships
• A surprise use for Levitate — what he calls “black belt mode”
• What’s coming next for Levitate users 

 We also talk about the key advantage small agencies have over larger agencies that few leverage to win more accounts. 

For full show notes and previous podcast episodes go to:

www. Insuranceagencytrendsetters.com/037 

And be sure to click “subscribe” so you don’t miss any upcoming episodes, including unannounced bonus episodes. 

Links: 

 Find out more about Levitate: Levitate.ai

#036 — Diane Wagner and the First Choice Agents Alliance had a huge task: Help Nationwide agents negotiate the transition from Exclusive Agent to Independent Agent. 

Hear how the transition has gone, how FCAA is helping agencies thrive, and how they are partnering with IIANC to tackle the biggest challenge in the industry today — attracting new talent. 

Listen in as we dive into the topic and discuss...

•  Choosing and implementing an Agency Management System
• What Nationwide agents have brought to the IA system
• What challenges did the agents face during the transition
• The importance of marketing the industry to high schools and colleges
• The benefits of Insure Academy to all agencies

 For full show notes and previous podcast episodes go to:

 www. Insuranceagencytrendsetters.com/036

And be sure to click “subscribe” so you don’t miss any upcoming episodes, including unannounced bonus episodes.

Links and Recommended Resources: 

FCAAlliance.com

 Investprogram.org  

 BigIHires.com

 IndependentAgent.com  

 Related Episodes:

Aubie Knight: Helping Agencies Thrive in the Insurtech World

#035 – George and Charlotte look back at highlights from the last year and give their predictions for the industry in 2022.

Referenced Podcast Episodes:

Chris Paradiso 

Aubie Knight – IIANC  

Chris Lane - Tarmika  

Kat Ternes - Agency Zoom 

Carey Wallace – Agency Focus  

Ron Shroyer – Donna for Agents 

Peter MacDonald and Joe Schnare - Wunderite 

Seth Zaremba - bAtomic

Are Your Customers Hearing What You’re Saying?

CNA Cyberattack Case Study

Lisa Lounsbury- Big I NY

Jason Liu - Zywave

Recent Happenings Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

For full show notes and previous podcast episodes go to:

 www. Insuranceagencytrendsetters.com

And be sure to click “subscribe” so you don’t miss any upcoming episodes, including unannounced bonus episodes.