Magazine

Employee burnout takes a toll on health, productivity and ultimately an agency’s bottom line.

Coming from a family of insurance people, Dallas Ross always knew that she wanted to be in insurance.

In April, the Big “I” Diversity Council hosted the Inclusive Agency Roundtable, which brought together independent agents, company partners and industry leaders to discuss actionable strategies for creating more inclusive agencies.

Marianne Policastro-Wik is leading her agency, a 2025 Best Practices Agency, through thoughtful “modernization,” paying careful attention to embracing technology without losing the human touch.

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.

Angela Ripley, president of VW Brown Insurance in Columbia, Maryland, brings two decades of agency leadership, eight acquisitions and a passion for mentorship and inclusion to the role of Big “I” chair.

The leaders who excel in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) will be those who lean harder into the human touch when it matters most.

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions that may guide you in deciding if an agency alliance is right for your independent insurance agency.

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.

Insurance offices can stay open and keep operating even when power is down in the area. Don’t be left in the dark.