Up 2 Speed
Welcome to Up to Speed - Your ultimate podcast destination designed to rev up your insurance industry knowledge! This exciting journey is brought to you by Lytespeed Learning, guided by your seasoned host, Samantha Tradelius. In the face of constant change, staying informed and ahead of the curve is essential. That’s why Up to Speed has assembled a line-up of industry professionals and latest real-time insights. We’re geared up to accelerate your learning experience and fully equip you with the tools to turbocharge your business. Staying in the know about the latest products and services has never been more critical. But the exciting part doesn’t end there! Many of our upcoming episodes offer more than just learning. With Up to Speed, you also stand a chance to earn Continuing Education credits for your personal growth. For more information, visit Lytespeed.net Gear up for an enriched learning experience whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the industry. Let’s join hands and navigate the speed lane of insurance wisdom together with Up to Speed.
Episodes

Friday May 23, 2025
Friday May 23, 2025
Join us on this enlightening episode of Up 2 Speed as we delve into the world of business automation and lead generation with the exceptional Ms. Dianne Shelton. Discover her innovative approaches to streamlining backend processes and converting leads into revenue, crucial for anyone struggling with inefficient systems.
Dianne shares her expertise in identifying and filling gaps that hinder business growth, with a particular focus on the insurance industry. She discusses the importance of knowing your clients, employing CRMs effectively, and embracing technology to maintain effective communication and client relationships.
With practical tips on leveraging AI and striking a balance between the human touch and automation, this episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking to optimize their operations and maximize their return on investment.
Main - Passion Breakthrough
𝑫𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒆 🍊 Sales System & Offer Strategist | Biz Coach | Mentor (@passionbreakthrough) • Instagram photos and videos

Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
In this episode of Up to Speed, join us as we talk with Valkyrie Holmes of Faura, a trailblazer in assessing property risks and transforming insurance practices. Dive into the challenges of the insurance marketplace, particularly regarding property survivability amid increasing natural disasters.
Valkyrie shares her unique journey into the insurance sector, leveraging her background in data science and aerospace to address wildfire risks and other natural calamities. Learn about Faura's groundbreaking approach to integrating incentivized insurance structures that encourage homeowners to mitigate risks, enhancing their property's insurability.
Discover how Faura aids carriers, agents, and homeowners through tailored risk assessments for wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and more. Gain insights into how insurance markets, especially in California, are adapting to new risk models, fostering partnerships between insurers and policyholders, and shaping the future of insurance in a changing climate.
Faura

Friday Apr 11, 2025
Friday Apr 11, 2025
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!
Need more:
Michael J. Colitti, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
President / C.E.O.
Hiring Done Right, LLC Direct: 805-650-9172Email: MColitti@HiringDoneRight.com

Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
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/

Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
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/

Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
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.

Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 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**

Friday Nov 08, 2024
Friday Nov 08, 2024
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.

Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
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.

Monday Sep 16, 2024
Monday Sep 16, 2024
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/




