Insurance Town

Heath Shearon

Welcome to Insurance Town! Your host is the Mayor of Insurance Town, Heath Shearon. After many years in different parts of the insurance world, Heath wants to share his experience with you. Join in on conversations with Heath and many of the friends he's made along the way. Insurance Town is a production of Insurance Town LLC! Find more info at http/://www.Insurancetownpodcast.com Music: "Mornin, Noon, and Nite" by Daddy Long Legs

  1. The “hold my beer” of insurance !

    1D AGO

    The “hold my beer” of insurance !

    This week in Insurance town the Mayor sits down with  Sarah Koolhof, a dynamic insurance professional whose journey spans theater, rugby, and underwriting. Discover how embracing discomfort and versatility has shaped her career and passion for relationship-driven insurance work. She has been with Commonwealth Undewriters for a dozen years and not going anywhere any time soon, She loves her team and her clients. I loved this conversation and I think you will too. In this episode: Sarah's unexpected transition from theater major to insurance underwriterHow rugby taught her resilience and the value of teamworkThe importance of building trust in E&S and surplus lines marketsNavigating industry changes over 12 years, especially in ENSStrategies for agency and carrier partnerships rooted in responsivenessInsights on managing industry burnout and maintaining mental healthPractical tips for agents choosing E&S brokers and understanding underwriting authorityThe culture of collaboration and relationship building at Commonwealth UnderwritersTimestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview00:30 - Sarah's background: from theater to insurance02:00 - The role of rugby in building resilience and confidence04:30 - How her diverse experiences shape her industry perspective08:00 - Navigating industry changes and the evolution of E&S markets12:00 - Building trust in surplus lines and the importance of partnerships16:00 - Commonwealth Underwriters: location, services, and company culture20:00 - Response times, setting expectations, and fostering client relationships24:00 - Managing industry burnout and mental health awareness28:00 - Tips for agents on selecting E&S brokers and understanding underwriting terms33:00 - Partnering in the insurance ecosystem and the value of relationships36:00 - Final thoughts: embracing versatility, teamwork, and continuous learning Resources & Links: Commonwealth UnderwritersSarah Kulhoff - LinkedInCanopy ConnectMAV Insurance PlatformConnect with Sarah: LinkedInEmail

    50 min

  2. FEB 6

    The Lazy River Files!

    In this episode, we are doing something a little different. Casey Nelson and I hosted an open call live one day and we called it the lazy river. WE wanted to invite people to "float in and hang out ad float out. Ive provided a few clips here for you guys to check out. WE will release the whole 2 hours some day soon... but for now this clip is about authentic leadership, engaging communication, and innovative work practices that can transform organizations. Whether you're speaking on stage, building relationships, or managing teams remotely, these insights provide practical strategies to lead with confidence. You'll hear familier voices ; Casey NelsonCaleb CramerCiara GravierJessica HolderBen MorrowRyan Hanley Key Topics: The importance of genuine interactions and how authenticity impacts leadership credibilityStrategies for modularizing content to adapt in dynamic speaking environmentsMemorable name drop stories and their impact on personal brandingTips for effective networking at high-profile events like Bill Gates's houseHow to test and engage audiences during keynote speechesThe role of diversity and gender dynamics in leadership credibilityFuture workplace trends: remote work, flexibility, and the four-day workweekLeveraging your unique strengths and circumstances to attract and retain talentPractical tips for transitioning from traditional to hybrid or virtual formatsTimestamps: 00:00 - The value of authentic interactions and sharing personal stories02:24 - Memorable name drops and their role in networking04:41 - Insights from high-profile meet-and-greets and leadership impressions06:03 - Authenticity as a female CEO and gender dynamics in leadership08:28 - The power of candid panel discussions and last-minute updates09:28 - Modularizing content for impactful speaking engagements11:20 - Testing audience engagement in real-time during speeches12:50 - Perspectives on remote work, office culture, and flexibility14:45 - The future of work: four-day weeks and employee well-being16:20 - Strategies for small businesses to compete with large organizations17:13 - Wrapping up with humor and connecting through genuine communication SPONSORS:Smart ChoiceCanopy ConnectMAV

    19 min

  3. JAN 30

    AI in your business!!

    In this weeks episode,  release my virtual course in Bob Dietrich and Pamela Dunn's virtual program called "Unlease AI in your Business" that released this week.  Hope you enjoy it. Let me know what you think...  Sponsored by:Smart ChoiceCanopy ConnectMAV

    31 min

  4. JAN 22

    What should you be paying attention to in 2026?

    In this week episode, Heath Shearon and Casey Nelson discuss the importance of standardizing processes in agencies, the impact of AI on business, and the potential societal reset from reducing screen time. They explore the challenges of implementing consistent procedures, the role of AI in modern companies, and the cultural shift towards more face-to-face interactions. The conversation also touches on the hypothetical scenario of shutting down the internet for six months and its potential effects on society. Additionally, they delve into personal anecdotes, the significance of setting goals, and the evolving landscape of the insurance industry. Takeaways Standardizing processes is crucial for agency efficiency.AI is transforming business operations significantly.Reducing screen time could lead to a societal reset.Consistent procedures help in minimizing wasteful practices.Face-to-face interactions are becoming more valued.The internet shutdown could have profound societal effects.Agencies should focus on their most profitable clients.Building processes should involve employee input.AI tools can be both time-saving and time-consuming.Cultural shifts are moving towards more personal interactions.Setting personal goals can drive professional growth.Understanding industry trends is key to staying competitive. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Technical Issues00:01:00 Standardizing Processes in Agencies00:01:55 AI's Impact on Business00:15:55 Cultural Shifts and Screen Time00:20:19 Hypothetical Internet Shutdown00:25:00 Personal Goals and Anecdotes00:30:00 Insurance Industry TrendsSponsors:Smart ChoiceCanopy ConnectMAV

    41 min

  5. JAN 15

    Insurance Agency ownership looks a little different these days

    This week in Insurance Town I get to catch up with my old friend, and former colleague, Therese Potter of Envela. We have a fun conversation we get to catch up on what she has been up to all the hats she currently wears, from teaching Tai Chi to selling Insurance and everything in between, and she is able to do all that, because of the culture and technology over at Envela.  Check it out, and let me know what ya think... Sponsors:Smart Choice-Go to Smartchoiceagents.com Canopy Connect- Usecanopy.com/heathMAV- Hiremav.com Thank you for being a wonderful and loyal citizen of Insurance Town! I love you all!  from the bottom of my heart I truly do, and I appreciate your support all these years!!

    35 min

  6. JAN 8

    Fair creates new opportunities and revenue streams for your agency!

    In this episode of the Insurance Town Podcast, I sit down with Clint Houke for a wide ranging, high trust conversation to kick off the new year the right way. This is one of those talks that feels like two industry vets standing at the whiteboard, talking honestly about what is working, what is changing, and where the real opportunities are. Clint and I dig into the trends he is seeing across the insurance landscape, especially around MGAs and why they continue to play such a critical role in today’s market. We talk about speed, specialization, and why MGAs are not just filling gaps, but actively shaping the future of distribution. From there,  how agencies, MGAs, and carriers can think about AI as a tool to enhance relationships, not replace them.  The conversation then turns to Clint’s newest chapter and his work with FAIR. We talk about what FAIR is building, why it matters, and how it is creating real opportunity in the insurance space. This is not just another product. It is a business model that opens up meaningful new revenue streams while staying aligned with transparency and customer experience. What stood out most in this conversation is Clint’s perspective on timing. The industry is changing fast, but the fundamentals still matter. Relationships. Trust. Doing right by the client. FAIR feels like one of those companies that understands both sides of that equation. If you are an agency owner, producer, MGA leader, or anyone looking to add smart, sustainable growth to your business, this episode is worth your time. Pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and join us in Insurance Town for a conversation about trends, technology, and finding opportunity in a changing market. Welcome back to town. Sponsors:Smart Choice- the Fastest growing agency Network hands downMAV- Ditch the Call center and Hire Mav the AI solution to engaging your clients Canopy Connect - The One Click Solution to getting dec pages you need to quote your clients.

    1h 7m

  7. JAN 1

    Out Of Service Keynote from IIANC

    HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Thank you so much for yet another amazing year in Insurance Town!! This weeks episode is a little different, No Guest. This week i am releasing one of my keynote presentations from a conference I spoke at this year, IIANC, thank you to my friend AUBE KNIGHT and his amazing staff in North Carolina for hosting me and helping me to learn and grow in a big way!! THAT CONFERENCE HAD a major impact on my life personally and Professionally!! This is my keynote, OUT OF SERVICE, I hope you enjoy! SponsorsSmart ChoiceCanopy Connect MAV

    45 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    Let's talk about influence!!

    In this episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor sits down with Brian Ahearn to unpack the difference between social media influence and true leadership influence, while also sharing a meaningful conversation around faith, family, and the responsibility that comes with leading well. Brian reflects on how becoming a grandfather has reshaped how he thinks about legacy, humility, and the kind of influence that truly matters, both at home and in leadership. The conversation also dives into Brian’s new book, Influenced From Above, a business parable that blends leadership principles with faith driven purpose. Together, Brian and the Mayor discuss what it means to be influenced from above in their own lives, leading with empathy, serving others, and aligning values with action. The takeaway is clear: real influence is not about getting people to say yes, but about building trust, relationships, and a legacy that lasts. Key Takeaways Why social media influence is not the same as true leadershipHow faith and family shape the way leaders influence othersLessons from Influenced From Above on humility and serviceWhy empathy and trust are the foundation of lasting leadershipSponsors Smart Choice – The fastest growing agency network hand down, no fees, higher commissions, lower premium thredhholdCanopy Connect – A one click solution to getting dec pages to quote your prospect and now they have intake platofrmMAV – Ditch the call center and hire MAV, the AI powered text messaging agent to qualify, quote& connect your prospects to your producers

    59 min
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About

Welcome to Insurance Town! Your host is the Mayor of Insurance Town, Heath Shearon. After many years in different parts of the insurance world, Heath wants to share his experience with you. Join in on conversations with Heath and many of the friends he's made along the way. Insurance Town is a production of Insurance Town LLC! Find more info at http/://www.Insurancetownpodcast.com Music: "Mornin, Noon, and Nite" by Daddy Long Legs

Information

  • Creator
    Heath Shearon
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    315
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2020 Insurance Town Media
  • Show Website
    Insurance Town

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