William Jones

Kenneth Harper’s passion for servant leadership is what drew him to the insurance industry—and to the political arena. It’s also what prompted him to attend the inaugural Insurance Campaign Institute.

Last year, Scott Gray was honored with the Barney Burns award at the 2025 Big “I” Legislative Conference for his dedication, passion and leadership in government advocacy for the independent insurance agency system.

Roth, executive vice president at Ahart, Frinzi & Smith, started her career on Capitol Hill. Born and raised a Jersey girl, Roth graduated from George Mason University with a major in political science and international affairs.

One thing is clear when it comes to catastrophes: Business as usual is no longer an option. Agents are in a prime position to become vocal leaders shaping resilience strategy on a community level.

On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, we meet Michelle O’Connor, president of O’Connor Insurance Associates in Charlotte, North Carolina.

When Michelle O’Connor and her husband started their insurance agency 25 years ago, they knew from the very beginning that joining the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina was a must.

Molly Abboud, Big “I” director of political affairs, hosts a discussion with Charles Symington, Big “I” president & CEO, and Nathan Riedel, Big “I” senior vice president of federal government affairs to discuss the 2024 election results and how they will impact the Big “I” legislative agenda.

Kevin Ownby, owner of Ownby Insurance Services Inc. in Sevierville, Tennessee, shares his journey into advocacy. This episode is sponsored by the Insurance Marketing and Communications Association (IMCA).

Tonya Thomason, president of David A. Crotts & Associates, shares some of the secrets to how she helped the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of South Carolina win the InsurPac “Triple Crown” three years in a row.