Sales and Marketing

Consumers can protect their homes and positively impact premium levels by being proactive with resilience measures to reduce claim severity.

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.

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.

Before Susan Erickson took the helm of her insurance agency, she was busy weathering the waves of the commercial fishing industry.

For small and midsize independent insurance agencies, 2026 is the best and the hardest time to market a business. The industry is steady, technology is smarter and customers are always within reach. Yet, staying visible in a nonstop digital world takes more energy than ever.

As an independent insurance agent—whether you’re a solo practitioner, a small business or a growing large agency—strong PR can help you connect with your audience, protect your reputation and stand out in a crowded world.

Consumers want to place their business with companies that care. Here’s why your agency should be visible and vocal about community involvement.

Born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Courtney Jacobs began her career as a financial adviser.

Throughout his career, Elliott has played a pivotal role in the Big “I” community at both the state and national levels—from chairing the Young Agents of Kansas (YAK) and the national Young Agents Committee (YAC) to championing political advocacy in his current role as chair of the state government affairs committee.