Rebranding your agency is a significant decision that can breathe new life into your business, but it's not one to take lightly. In this episode, Amanda and Kelsey dive into the three key phases of rebranding—planning, execution, and launch—sharing actionable tips and real-world examples along the way. Learn how to evaluate whether a rebrand is the right move, strategies for ensuring client buy-in, and how to maintain brand goodwill while introducing fresh changes. Whether you're considering a full overhaul or a simple refresh, this discussion offers invaluable insights to help your agency stand out in a crowded marketplace. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration for your next branding journey!

In this episode of Licensed to Talk Insurance, hosts Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin-Ramsey are joined by Dan Huffstetter, Executive Vice President at Chicagoland SIA. Dan shares valuable insights for independent insurance agents on building trust with underwriters, enhancing submissions, and understanding their clients' businesses. The conversation covers Dan's experiences as an underwriter and how agents can differentiate themselves through well-crafted submissions and strong relationships. They also highlight the importance of continuous learning, emphasizing available training resources like Chicagoland SIA's Business Insurance Advantage and Commercial Lines Bootcamp. The episode provides actionable advice on navigating underwriting relationships, improving submission quality, and prospecting effectively.

In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Jenny McNulty to discuss the comprehensive range of support services available to new and established insurance agencies. They explore the hands-on guidance provided for new agency onboarding, covering essential steps like securing carrier codes and developing sound business strategies. Kelsey deep dives into the different ways she assists members with their digital strategy while Jenny highlights the long-term mentorship offered to agencies, including assistance with employee contracts, producer agreements, buy-sell agreements, and perpetuation planning. Whether you're just starting or planning for the future, this episode offers valuable insights into the ongoing support available to help agencies succeed at every stage. Tune in to learn all the ways Chicagoland SIA assists your agency’s growth, evolution, and long-term success!

In this episode of Licensed to Talk Insurance, Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin-Ramsey delve into the intricacies of mapping the customer journey. They explore the significance of understanding every touchpoint in the path from prospect to policyholder. Listen in to learn how mapping this journey can unveil opportunities to enhance client experiences, improve agency processes, and ultimately increase customer satisfaction and loyalty

In Episode 23 of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," hosts Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin-Ramsey welcome back Christine Lee, an agency growth coach at Chicagoland SIA. This episode dives deep into the critical reports that insurance agency owners should be reviewing regularly to ensure growth and profitability. Christine shares her insights on the importance of daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive agency success. Join us as Christine discusses the essential daily reports that keep processes and procedures in check, the weekly metrics that fuel producer competition, and the monthly and quarterly reports that provide a comprehensive view of the agency's health. Whether it's tracking renewals, managing claims, or monitoring prospecting pipelines, Christine offers practical tips and best practices to help agency owners stay on top of their reporting game. Tune in for an informative conversation packed with actionable strategies for independent insurance agents looking to optimize their reporting processes and drive growth in their agencies.

In this insightful episode of License to Talk Insurance, your hosts Amanda and Kelsey dive into the essential steps for developing a tech stack tailored to independent insurance agencies. They discuss the critical components of a tech stack, from agency management systems to customer relationship management (CRM) tools, and website essentials. Amanda and Kelsey provide practical advice on identifying key pain points technology can alleviate, finding and vetting the right vendors, and ensuring your tech solutions are scalable and compliant with industry standards. They also share tips on avoiding common red flags when choosing tech vendors and highlight the importance of cost transparency and ease of use. Whether you're a new agency owner or looking to optimize your existing tech stack, this episode offers valuable insights to help you streamline your operations and enhance your client interactions. Tune in to learn how to make informed decisions and build a tech stack that will grow with your agency, saving you time and money while boosting efficiency and client satisfaction.

In this episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," hosts Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin Ramsey dive into the often-overlooked skill of perception checking. Join Amanda, the Director of Marketing, and Kelsey, the Director of Digital Strategy at Chicagoland SIA, as they explore the nuances of effective communication within the insurance industry. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, body language, and adapting to various communication styles, including generational and cultural differences. Through relatable anecdotes and practical tips, Amanda and Kelsey illustrate how mastering perception checking can prevent misunderstandings and foster stronger relationships with clients and colleagues. Tune in to learn how to enhance your communication skills and better serve your clients in this insightful and engaging episode.

In the 20th episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," hosts Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin Ramsey are joined by special guest Tammy Nelson, Personal Lines Manager at Chicagoland SIA. With over 30 years of industry experience, Tammy shares invaluable insights into the underwriting factors shaping personal lines insurance policies today. From the impact of credit scores to evolving trends in roof coverage, Tammy delves into the nuances agents need to navigate for optimal client outcomes. Throughout the episode, the trio explores significant trends, including the rise of telematics in personal auto policies and the growing importance of educating clients on coverage adequacy. They discuss strategies for agents to adapt to industry changes, emphasizing the role of education in empowering clients to make informed decisions about their insurance needs. From the benefits of long-term carrier loyalty to the critical importance of adequate liability limits, Tammy, Amanda, and Kelsey underscore the mission of insurance agents as trusted advisors in safeguarding their clients' financial well-being. As the conversation unfolds, listeners gain valuable insights into how agents can enhance client relationships, tailor coverage options, and stay ahead of emerging industry trends. With a focus on education and client empowerment, this episode equips independent insurance agents with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving insurance landscape. Join the conversation and stay tuned for more expert insights in the world of insurance on "Licensed to Talk Insurance."

n this episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," hosts Kelsey Ramsey and Amanda Yaniz delve deep into the realm of data and analytics, providing invaluable insights for independent insurance agents looking to make informed marketing decisions. From leveraging tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and CRM systems to analyzing email marketing strategies and social media analytics, this episode offers practical tips and strategies to maximize marketing effectiveness. Listeners will learn how to interpret data to determine optimal posting times, refine email marketing campaigns, identify high-performing content, and even cross-sell policies using insights from their agency management systems. Packed with actionable advice and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for insurance professionals seeking to harness the power of data-driven marketing to grow their businesses. Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting out, join Kelsey and Amanda as they guide you through the process of decoding data and unlocking marketing success in the insurance industry.

In this episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," hosts Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin Ramsey delve into the world of generative AI and its implications for independent insurance agents. Focusing on ChatGPT they explore its functionalities and discuss how it can assist agents in various aspects of their marketing endeavors. From summarizing articles to assisting with social media posts and hashtags, ChatGPT is a valuable resource - particularly for agents with limited resources. However, they caution against overreliance and emphasize the importance of maintaining human-to-human connections.  they also point out the limitations of ChatGPT's knowledge of Insurance and that the AI easily confuses coverages with similar names. With practical insights this episode provides a comprehensive guide for agents looking to leverage AI effectively in their business strategies while retaining their unique value proposition.

In this episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," hosts Amanda Yaniz and Kelsey Concklin Ramsey discuss practical and cost-effective ways for independent insurance agents to market themselves. They delve into online marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of a strong website, effective use of Google Business profiles, and leveraging social media channels. The hosts also explore traditional marketing approaches, such as attending community events, collaborating with local businesses, and participating in conventions. The episode concludes with valuable insights on time management for marketing efforts and the significance of consistency in building relationships and brand presence.

In this episode of License to Talk Insurance, Amanda Yaniz and Jenny McNulty discuss the extensive support and resources offered by Chicagoland SIA. Jenny, a VP specializing in recruiting and member alignment, reflects on her transition into this role and delves into the diverse assistance provided to agency prospects and members. She highlights the intricate process of setting up an independent agency from scratch, guiding individuals through legalities, obtaining licenses, and offering continuous support. Jenny emphasizes the agency's comprehensive aid in selecting the right technology, marketing platforms, and even fostering connections among agency owners for mutual benefit. Moreover, she illustrates instances where Chicagoland SIA provided solutions for members' challenges, whether finding insurance markets or aiding in hiring and setting up payroll for growing agencies. The episode underscores Chicagoland SIA's commitment to member success, facilitated by the dedication of the team, including agency growth coaches, who provide ongoing support and guidance. Overall, the conversation showcases the team's hands-on approach, personalized support, and commitment to nurturing and empowering independent insurance agents throughout their journey.

In this episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," Amanda Yaniz, Director of Marketing at Chicagoland SIA, welcomes special guest host Mike O'Donnell, Vice President and Recruiter for Chicagoland SIA, and an independent insurance agent for Concklin Insurance Agency. Mike shares valuable insights gained from his professional journey, discussing his transition from a captive agent to an independent insurance agent. The episode explores the pros and cons of both models, emphasizing the flexibility and customization advantages offered by the independent agency system. Mike delves into the significance of book ownership, contrasting the limitations in the captive model with the freedom and potential for lucrative returns in the independent agency model. The discussion also touches on the family-run nature of independent agencies and the challenges faced in perpetuating an agency with the captive model. Gain a deeper understanding of the nuances between independent and captive insurance agencies in this informative and engaging episode.

In this episode of "Licensed to Talk Insurance," we're delving into the world of logo design, specifically tailored for Independent Insurance Agents. Your hosts, Amanda and Kelsey, walk you through the essential steps to craft a logo that not only stands out but also effectively represents your agency's identity. Before you dive into the design process, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of your agency. You should know your agency's name, mission, vision, and values, as well as your target audience and demographics. Next, we explore the various types of logos, from wordmarks to lettermarks, icons, combination marks, and emblems. We discuss the significance of each and help you decide which one aligns best with your agency's personality. When it comes to logo design, inspiration is key. We provide insights into what to consider when choosing symbols and colors. Your logo should reflect your brand's essence, and we discuss how personal associations, cultural symbols, and geographical elements can play a vital role in the design process. Color theory is another essential aspect, and we break down the meanings behind nine main colors commonly used in business branding. We also share tips on selecting an accent color to make your logo stand out in various contexts. Practicality matters, so we guide you on how to adapt your logo for different situations, including full color, grayscale, single color, and dark or light backgrounds. Typography can make or break your logo, so we explore font choices, including serif, sans-serif, and script. You'll learn how different fonts can convey distinct personality traits and the importance of readability. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of stepping back and evaluating whether your logo effectively communicates your brand. Don't miss our discussion on gathering feedback from friends and family to ensure your logo sends the right message. Tune in to this episode to gain the knowledge and inspiration you need to create a compelling logo that represents your Independent Insurance Agency with precision and style.

Amanda and Kelsey talk with Pierre Poinsett of Poinsett Insurance Agency.  Pierre talks about his decision to make the move from Captive to Independent Insurance Agent, and also about his career before getting into insurance.

In this episode Amanda and Kelsey talk about the foundational pieces you need to have in place prior to starting a paid advertising campaign. From knowing your target audience inside and out - to having you website set up to receive prospects from the ad - there is a lot to know and do before you spend a dollar on a paid ad. 

Jenny McNulty guest hosts this episode, sharing her extensive knowledge of the carrier side of the business and best practices for what to ask your carrier marketing reps.  This episode is a continuation of the discussion points in Episode 5. Jenny covers a variety of topics, including service centers, rewards programs, book consolidations, product knowledge and more.  Don't miss this insightful episode aimed at helping you make the most of your carrier relationships.

Amanda and Kelsey talk about the advantages of being a small, locally owned - maybe even family owned - business. 

In this episode we delve into a crucial topic that is of paramount importance for independent insurance agents: diversifying your book of business to safeguard against the hard market. We are joined by Agency Growth Coach, Christine Lee as she shares her insights on the challenges for personal lines focused agents and tips to get started building a commercial lines book of business.

Learn why video marketing is essential for independent insurance agents, and get practical advice on getting started, script development, technology, and incorporating video proposals, introduction videos, and marketing videos into your business.

This episode explores strategies for effective communication with carriers, including preparation for meetings, understanding declined risks, and getting to the top of the underwriter's pile. We discuss the importance of going straight to the source for information and aligning carrier lineups with marketing strategies for growth and success.

This episode explores how digital strategy and online presence can help achieve goals. We discuss importance of goal setting, quality over quantity, steps to achieve goals using online tools, yearly planning, budgeting, content creation, engagement, and accountability. Learn how each piece works together to build a powerful digital strategy that helps you achieve your goals and stand out online.

Jenny McNulty join us to provide her insights on important questions to ask carrier Marketing Reps.  Jenny was a Marketing Rep for Safeco for 10 years prior to joining Chicagoland SIA. In this episode she provides tips and insights for things your marketing Reps should be providing you.

Giving back to your community through sponsorships, charitable donations, and volunteering are great ways to demonstrate the core values of your agency brand - however, the desire to contribute must be authentic.

Amanda and Kelsey discuss the process for developing your personal brand using examples of their own experience.  They also discuss why a personal brand is important and the role it plays in attracting clients and employees.