Agent Charter: Creating an AI Governance Framework to Ensure Operational Reliance
Without a framework to guide decision-making, escalation and accountability, even the most promising AI initiatives risk stalling—or worse, creating hidden exposure.
Agency Operations
Agency Nation Meets: Julie Furst
With over 25 years in integrated marketing and StoryBrand certification, Julie Furst cares deeply about continuous learning across every aspect of life and people, and about supporting the businesses she truly believes in.
How a Common Leadership Language Improves Efficiency
Language breakdowns among independent agents tend to occur when there is inconsistency in how language is applied internally and externally.
Setting a New Standard for Women in Insurance with Marissa Winkelman
On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, we meet Marissa Winkelman, managing partner of Webb + Winkelman in Grove, Oklahoma. Winkelman entered the insurance industry in 2012 as a receptionist at Webb Insurance and quickly realized the role wasn’t the right fit. After transitioning to a back-office position, she focused on learning the business and working her way up. By 2023, Winkelman became a…
Agency Nation Meets: Summer Cole
Summer Cole’s insurance career began in 2003 in the commercial department of a local independent insurance agency, where she quickly fell in love with the industry. Like many in agency roles, she wore multiple hats, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of agency operations.
Declaration of Independents: Marrissa Winkelman
Marrissa Winkelman entered the world of insurance in 2012 when she started as the receptionist at Webb Insurance. Understanding quickly that the position wasn’t the right fit for her, she moved to the back office, where she focused on insurance and working her way up.
Creating Healthy Boundaries to Deliver Better Client Service
It’s essential to create and maintain healthy boundaries. These clear expectations not only support your well-being but also enhance client service.
Hiring Smart: How Independent Agencies Can Compete for Talent
On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, Jennifer Becker, Big “I” executive director of research and education, is joined by Claudia St. John, founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors. During the episode, they explore how small independent insurance agencies can compete with large corporations for talent; whether artificial intelligence (AI) is helping agencies address staffing shortages or simply adding another layer of complexity; and what agency owners…
Captaining an Independent Agency in Alaska With Susan Erickson
On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, we meet Susan Erickson, owner of P-W Insurance in Petersburg, Alaska.
How the Insurance Industry Is Tackling the Talent Crisis
To address the talent shortage, here are five successful, replicable strategies already in motion to recruit the next wave of insurance talent in 2026 and beyond.
