Up 2 Speed

Mastering the Art of Hiring and Employee Management and the importance of EPLI coverage.

Join Samantha as she dives deep into the world of hiring, firing, and employee management with expert Michael Colitti  A seasoned HR guru. Discover the essential practices business owners need to know to manage their workforce effectively, from understanding the balance between technical skills and behavioral traits to crafting impactful job descriptions. Learn why "hire slow, fire fast" is a mantra to live by and find out how to navigate the tricky waters of employee culture fit and legal compliance. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for agency owners and business leaders looking to create a productive and engaged work environment. We talk EPLI, why you need it and what can happen if you don't!
 
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Michael J. Colitti, SPHR, SHRM-SCP                        
President / C.E.O.                                                  
Hiring Done Right, LLC                         Direct:  805-650-9172Email:   MColitti@HiringDoneRight.com 

Life Insurance 101: Simplifying the Essentials with Insurance Guru Paul Kaplan

Welcome to another episode of the Up 2 Speed podcast, where we bring valuable insights from industry experts. In this episode, hosts Elliott and Mick Strickler are joined by Paul Kaplan from Back Nine Insurance to discuss everything about life insurance. This conversation provides a comprehensive overview, catering to both seasoned life agents and those new to the field.
Explore the fundamental aspects of life insurance, the importance of policy selection based on client needs, and the various types of coverages available. Paul shares his extensive experience in the industry, offering valuable tips and anecdotes that highlight the necessity and benefits of life insurance for everyone, regardless of profession or age.
The discussion covers the nuances of term life, whole life, and universal life insurance, shedding light on essential topics like policy conversion, premium structures, and living benefits. Whether you're a struggling P+C agent looking for new opportunities or someone interested in understanding life insurance better, this episode offers practical advice and effective strategies to enhance your approach to selling life insurance.
https://back9ins.com/
 

AI & Insurance: A New Era of Customer Experience with Liberate's Tom Freeland

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Tom from Liberate as we delve into the world of AI through an insider's perspective. Discover how AI is transforming the insurance industry, enhancing customer experiences, and streamlining processes for carriers and agencies. Learn about the real-time benefits of AI in handling crisis situations, such as natural disasters, and how it supports insurance personnel in delivering prompt and effective services.
Explore the potential of AI to reshape underwriting processes and risk modeling, offering customers more precise and efficient service. In this rapidly evolving landscape, we address common concerns about AI's impact on jobs and emphasize the importance of embracing technological advancements to scale businesses and improve customer satisfaction.
This episode offers valuable insights for anyone in the insurance sector, highlighting the advantages of adopting AI solutions to stay competitive and meet the growing demands of the modern market.
https://www.liberateinc.com/
 

LA Fire Insurance Crisis: Filing a claim with the CA FAIR PLAN what do you need to know?

This episode of Up 2 Speed, hosted by Samantha, focuses on the current challenges posed by the LA fires and the related insurance crisis. Samantha offers insights from the Fair Plan Claims Reporting Webinar, providing updates on claim filing processes, fair rental value, and key resources for policyholders.
Listeners are guided on filing claims, including ensuring accurate contact information and understanding the distinction between mandatory and suggested evacuations. The episode emphasizes caution in signing documents and offers the latest news on support workshops provided by the Department of Insurance in the affected areas.
Agents are encouraged to be proactive, serving as informed resources for their clients during this difficult time. Samantha highlights the importance of patience and strategic planning in effectively managing insurance claims amid the current chaos.
 
https://www.cfpnet.com/
We will have phone lines open on Saturday 1/18 from 10 AM - 5 PM and Sunday 1/19 from 10 AM – 1 PM to report a loss, in addition to maintaining our extended customer service hours Monday through Friday from 8 AM – 5 PM.

Navigating Insurance Claims During California's Wildfires January 10, 2025

This episode of 'Up 2 Speed' delves into the critical situation unfolding in Southern California, with six active fires wreaking havoc in LA and Ventura County. In the wake of this devastation, we bring insightful advice from insurance professionals Samantha, Jessica and Stacy, who share their expertise on how to navigate the complex landscape of insurance claims during such mass claim events.
Listeners will gain an understanding of what to expect when filing a claim, including details about policy declaration pages and the coverage of dwelling, personal property, and loss of use. The hosts also explain the intricacies of coverage limits and offer practical advice on managing deductibles to ensure clients are adequately prepared and informed.  
Amidst the current crisis, this episode serves as a guide for both consumers and insurance agents trying to understand the financial and logistical challenges posed by these catastrophic events. Tune in for invaluable insights to help navigate these trying times effectively.
 
We are here to help.
 
**Pls note different carriers use A-D differently ( Dwelling, Other Structures, Personal Property Loss of use / Add. living expenses) Coverage is the same just letter and line item may differ**
 

Navigating New Insurance Education Requirements: Simplifying Senate Bill 263

Welcome to this episode of "Up 2 Speed," where host Samantha chats with Nancy Strickler, an education expert from Lytespeed and her mom, about the latest changes in insurance education due to Senate Bill 263. Nancy breaks down the new training requirements for life and annuity agents, offering clarity amidst the confusion.
First, they discuss the new four-hour life policy training mandatory for agents licensed in 2024 and beyond. This training counts towards the continuing education requirement but must be completed after obtaining a license number.
Next, the conversation shifts to annuity requirements, which include a fresh four-hour annuity course for all agents by January 2025 and a one-time eight-hour course, even for veteran agents. This ensures all agents are up-to-date with the latest regulations.
The episode concludes with insights on the new two-hour variable life training course necessary for selling variable life policies, along with a reminder about the ethics requirement included in the 24-hour continuing education every two years.
Lytespeed is dedicated to helping agents navigate these changes with resources, courses, and expert guidance. Tune in to get up to speed with the latest insurance education requirements and ensure compliance with the new laws.

Navigating the Pulse of the Insurance Industry: Insights from Recent Conventions Agents Alliance + ITC Vegas

Join Samantha Tradelius on a unique solo episode of "Up to Speed" as she shares her recent experiences from traveling across the country and attending major insurance conventions. Discover the latest industry trends and the importance of networking, as she provides insights from the American Agents Alliance convention and the InsureTech Connect in Las Vegas.
Learn about the positive energy and innovative products introduced at these events, aimed at helping independent agents improve their services. Samantha delves into the impact of technology, including AI, on the insurance landscape, and how it is transforming processes for both agents and carriers.
Explore the value of stepping out of your comfort zone and investing in personal growth through education and industry engagement. Samantha encourages listeners to participate in future conventions to gain valuable knowledge and connections that can enhance their careers.
Tune in for updates on upcoming episodes featuring new speakers, classes, and important developments from the Department of Insurance. Stay informed and ahead in the ever-evolving world of insurance.

Unlocking the Power of Premium Finance: Expert Insights with Erin Foxworthy

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "Up to Speed," the podcast that keeps you informed on all things insurance. Join Samantha from Lytespeed as she sits down with her dear friend and industry expert, Erin Foxworthy, Vice President at IPFS, a leading premium finance company.
In this episode, Erin demystifies the concept of premium finance, explaining how it helps insureds afford their coverages and optimize cash flow. Discover the practical benefits for both agencies and insureds, including the ease of setting up monthly payment plans and the administrative relief for agencies.
Erin shares valuable insights into the current turbulent insurance market, the impact of rising premiums, and how premium finance companies are stepping up to assist. She also highlights the technological advancements that are making the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Whether you're a seasoned insurance professional or just starting your career, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical tips to navigate the complexities of premium finance. Tune in to learn how you can leverage this powerful tool to enhance your insurance practice.
 
https://www.ipfs.com/

Cannabis Coverage: A Journey into a Budding Industry

In this enlightening episode of Up2Speed, host Samantha reconnects with her old friend, Valerie Taylor, who has transitioned from property insurance to becoming a cannabis insurance expert. Valerie shares her unique journey, starting from her unexpected introduction to cannabis insurance to becoming a key figure in the industry.
Valerie dives into the complexities of insuring cannabis businesses, explaining the various verticals such as cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, and retail. She also discusses the challenges posed by federal illegality and the intricacies of navigating state-specific regulations.
Listeners will learn about the different types of insurance required for cannabis businesses, including property, liability, theft, and crop insurance. Valerie provides insights into the unique risks faced by cannabis operations, such as cash-heavy transactions and product liability.
Additionally, Valerie shares her advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., discussing the potential rescheduling of cannabis and its implications for the industry. She emphasizes the importance of staying informed about legislative changes and their impact on cannabis businesses.
Whether you're an insurance professional or simply curious about the burgeoning world of cannabis coverage, this episode is packed with valuable information and expert insights from one of the industry's leading voices.
 
(8) Valerie Taylor | LinkedIn

Meet Casey, the Branding Expert Empowering Women in Insurance

In this riveting episode of "Up to Speed", we interview Casey, a reputable marketing and branding expert based in Wyoming, who is making a tangible difference in the insurance industry. Casey's unique and innovative business practices have helped insurance agents across America to improve their brand visibility and increase their online presence. Tune in to discover the secret sauce to successful branding and take your entrepreneurial capacity to the next level.
Casey highlights the importance of agent's online presence and its reflection of the 'human' behind the business—an underemphasized yet crucial aspect of customer attraction and building deep relationships. As a distinguished business coach, she underlines the significance of consistency and gradual growth, instead of trying to do everything all at once. Her flexible services motivate clients to progress courageously without the constraints of binding contracts.
Beyond her marketing and coaching roles, Casey leads the Professional Women's Empowerment Network, aiming to develop, connect, and empower women in the insurance field. Offering valuable insights into her journey and about the community that she is fervently nurturing, she truly signposts the indispensable need for such dedicated spaces for women.
The episode also features Casey's astute analysis on creating meaningful change and fostering career growth for women in the insurance arena. Hear about her forthcoming empowerment event in Denver which focuses on professional advancement, work-life balance, and the key importance of asking for help. Tune in to comprehend the richness of the insurance world beyond strict rules and regulations, as she inspires agents to celebrate their individuality, thus challenging dated industry norms.
If you are working in an insurance office or running your own agency, this episode is a must-listen. It not only empowers women professionals in insurance to develop and benefit from their careers but also offers advice on how to maintain a positive mindset amidst industry changes, emphasize personal strengths, and utilize personal branding for professional progression.
www.caseykuckert.com
Casey Kuckert -The Biz Lady (@caseythebizlady) • Instagram photos and videos