Episodes

  • From Submission Bottlenecks to Scalable Growth with Toby Hung

    From Submission Bottlenecks to Scalable Growth with Toby Hung
    Nov 5 2025
    In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, host David Carothers sits down with Toby Hung, co-founder and COO of 1Fort, to discuss the practical application of AI in commercial insurance agencies. Toby shares his background on both the carrier and tech sides, explaining why he co-founded 1Fort to bridge the gap between insurance and technology. The conversation centers on how AI can automate the most time-consuming, non-revenue-generating tasks—like the submission-to-bind process—allowing agencies to 10x their revenue without 10x their headcount. They also explore why AI is the "great equalizer" for small and mid-sized agencies. Key Highlights: The All-in-One AI Solution Toby Hung addresses the frustration agents feel after buying multiple "point solutions" that overpromise and under-deliver. He details 1Fort's all-in-one approach, which uses AI to automate the entire commercial submission process—from extracting data and entering it into carrier portals to generating high-quality, white-labeled client proposals, coverage comparisons, and marketing summaries. AI as the "Great Equalizer" The conversation highlights how AI levels the playing field, enabling small and mid-sized agencies to compete directly with 100-pound gorillas. By using AI, smaller, hungrier agencies can achieve the same level of output, accuracy, and speed as their largest competitors, who are often backed by massive resources. Solving Agency Turnover and Burnout Toby explains that AI is a powerful tool for employee retention. By automating the manual, repetitive tasks that lead to burnout (like spending nine hours a week on submissions), agencies can empower their staff to do more meaningful, high-value work. It also helps attract younger talent (Gen Z, millennials) who expect modern technology in the workplace. Bridging the Tech and Insurance Gap Coming from both the carrier side at AIA and working in big tech, Toby explains that insurance people and tech people often "don't speak the same language." 1Fort was built with agency feedback to be an accessible tool that integrates directly into existing workflows, rather than being another complex piece of software that requires hours of training. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Toby Hung LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp 1Fort Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    38 mins
  • Becoming the Protege with Joe Hollier

    Becoming the Protege with Joe Hollier
    Oct 31 2025
    In this second episode of the "Becoming the Protégé" series on Power Producers Shop Talk, host David Carothers sits down with Protégé Season 3 contestant Joe Hollier, also known as "Mr. Hotel." Joe, a 20-year industry veteran, shares why he's joining the competition to accelerate his full transition into the commercial insurance space. The conversation covers his deep background in the hospitality industry, his niche focus on boutique and luxury hotels, and how he's building a brand focused on service over sales and improving hospitality culture to differentiate himself. Key Highlights: Why a 20-Year Veteran Joined the Protégé Joe Hollier explains that after 17 years primarily in personal lines, he made the full commitment to "kill commercial." He joined The Protégé to 10x his growth, gain new perspectives from top coaches, and be held accountable by industry professionals as he builds his hospitality and hotel niche. A Call for Industry Diversity & Ciara's Journey The episode opens with a candid discussion about the disappointing lack of female and minority applicants for Season 3. David and Joe champion the need for more diversity to combat the industry's "pale, male, and stale" image, using Ciara Gravier's personal and professional transformation as a powerful case study for how mentorship can build a "powerhouse" producer. Lessons from the Hospitality Trenches Joe shares how his extensive background in restaurants—from cooking school and the kitchen to bartending and management—provided invaluable lessons in human relationships. He explains how the high-stress hospitality world taught him how to read people, handle conflict, and connect with clients on a genuine level, skills that translate directly to sales. Building a Niche: Service Over Sales Joe details the challenges of the hotel niche, from price-shoppers in the economy tier to the difficulty of finding decision-makers. He explains his strategic pivot to move beyond being a "quoter" and instead offer a value proposition built on service over sales, improving hospitality culture, risk expertise, and storytelling. Connect with: Joe "Mr. Hotel" Hollier LinkedIn David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp Garcia Insurance Services Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    55 mins
  • Reclaiming Purpose in a Distracted World with Tania Khazaal

    Reclaiming Purpose in a Distracted World with Tania Khazaal
    Oct 29 2025
    In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, host David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck welcome Tania the Herbalist, a former top insurance salesperson turned holistic life advisor. Tania shares her journey from corporate burnout to helping people become the "CEO of their life" by finding purpose and balance across health, career, and relationships. The conversation delves into the scarcity mindset around time and energy, the societal programming that hinders women's confidence in the workplace, the detrimental effects of the "cutoff culture," and the importance of holistic independence from broken systems. Key Highlights: Becoming the CEO of Your Life Tania explains her core philosophy: you can have it all—a fulfilling career, vibrant health, strong relationships, and time for family—without compromise. She discusses tackling the common scarcity mindset around time and energy through practical audits, revealing that prioritizing even small daily actions can lead to significant life improvements. The Confidence Gap & External Validation Drawing on her insurance background, Tania addresses why women may feel held back or lack confidence in corporate settings. She argues it stems from deep societal programming emphasizing external validation over internal self-worth, exacerbated by social media, which statistically makes women less likely to speak up or pursue leadership roles. Escaping the Matrix: Holistic Independence Tania shares her perspective on achieving true independence by breaking free from reliance on potentially flawed systems (corporate, medical, governmental). This involves pursuing financial freedom, regaining bodily autonomy through holistic health practices (linking to her herbalist roots), and cultivating emotional resilience. Critiquing the "Cutoff Culture" & Distractions The conversation explores the modern phenomenon of estrangement (the "cutoff culture") and pervasive societal distractions. Tania traces its roots to person-centered therapy and pop psychology, arguing it hinders conflict resolution skills and distracts people from their purpose and building meaningful connections. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Tania Khazaal LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp Tania the Herbalist Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    46 mins
  • Becoming the Protege with Sam Louwrens

    Becoming the Protege with Sam Louwrens
    Oct 24 2025
    In this first episode of a special 12-part Power Producer Shop Talk series titled "Becoming the Protégé," host David Carothers introduces the contestants and coaches for The Protégé Season 3. Kicking off the series is Sam Louwrens (Can't shut up Sam on X), whose application video generated significant buzz. David sets the stage, explaining his motivation for reviving The Protégé—to give back, train new talent, and challenge the industry's often inadequate approach to developing producers. Sam shares his creative background, why he decided to jump into the competition, the story behind his unique application video, and the early media attention he's already receiving. Key Highlights: Introducing Sam Louwrens: Confidence and Creativity Sam Louwrens, a young producer specializing in construction from Jefferson Financial and Insurance Services, joins the show. Known for his confidence and creative flair (musician, graphic designer, and keytar player in a punk band), Sam discusses how he uses his artistic skills in his insurance career and the story behind his memorable Protégé application video, filmed with a Goodwill suit and a metal detector prop. David's "Why" Behind The Protégé David Carothers shares his deep-seated reasons for bringing back The Protégé. Stemming from his own frustrating entry into the industry 20 years ago, his goal is to provide real-world training, give back, highlight the need for new talent, and prove that his successful sales process is replicable—debunking skepticism about industry coaching programs. Why Sam Joined: Pushing Comfort Zones & Agency Support Sam reveals that the discomfort of "building in public" was exactly why he felt compelled to join the competition. He shares how he got immediate buy-in from his agency owner, who even committed to investing in new agency tech (AMS/CRM) to support his participation and growth. Early Buzz and Building a Base The conversation touches on the immediate attention Sam received, including interest from Reuters. David emphasizes the importance of building a following ("getting your base") early on, drawing lessons from Season 1 winner Derek Hayden, who dominated the final vote through relentless local promotion. Making Insurance Sexy: An Impossible Task? Sam brings up David's stated goal for The Protégé: to "make insurance sexy." They discuss the challenge of changing the public perception of a typically mundane industry and how highlighting the entrepreneurial opportunity and financial success available might be the key, similar to shows like Million Dollar Listing. Connect with: Sam Louwrens LinkedIn David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp Lauer Creations Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    42 mins
  • From Confusion to Clarity with Ashley Napier

    From Confusion to Clarity with Ashley Napier
    Oct 22 2025
    In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, host David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck welcome back Ashley Napier of Solomon Strategic Advisors, a key supporter of Producers in Paradise. Ashley, who transitioned from an agency COO to a leadership consultant, shares her insights into the common struggles facing insurance organizations today. The conversation explores the critical need for organizational clarity, the difference between mission and vision, and why many leaders lack the self-awareness and other-awareness required to build high-performing teams. They also discuss the pitfalls of promoting top producers into leadership roles they aren't suited for and the cultural challenges presented by mergers and acquisitions. Key Highlights: The Leadership Skill Gap Ashley Napier shares her own journey, realizing that leadership isn't just about being good at a job; it's about people, organizational clarity, self-awareness, and understanding the needs of others. She sees many agency leaders today promoted without these essential skills, leading to frustration, turnover, and unclear direction. The Power of Organizational Clarity The discussion emphasizes that true clarity goes beyond daily tasks. Ashley outlines the essential components: a clear Mission (why we exist), Vision (where we're going), Values (our guiding principles), SWOT (understanding our position), strategic Pillars, long-term Objectives, yearly Goals, and daily Tactics. Many organizations mistakenly start with tactics, leading to confusion and inefficiency. Rethinking the Path to Success: Ownership vs. Production David challenges the industry perception that agency ownership is the only path to ultimate success. He argues that not every top producer is suited for leadership or ownership, and they can often achieve greater financial success and work-life balance by focusing purely on production within a supportive agency that fosters an entrepreneurial spirit. Navigating Culture in Mergers & Acquisitions The episode touches upon the frequent cultural clashes during agency mergers and acquisitions. Ashley notes that the stronger culture typically dominates, often leaving employees feeling disconnected from a mission, vision, or leadership style they didn't sign up for. Establishing a common leadership language proactively can help mitigate these challenges. Intentional Leadership: Fighting for the Highest Good Ashley leaves listeners with a call to action: be intentional, not accidental, in leadership. This involves fighting for your highest good and the highest good of those you lead. Leaders must get clear on their goals, write them down, make a plan, run after it, and avoid distractions to make a real impact. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Ashley Napier LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp Solomon Strategic Advisors Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    56 mins
  • Becoming the AI-First Agency with Kevin Surace

    Becoming the AI-First Agency with Kevin Surace
    Oct 15 2025
    In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, host David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck are joined by Kevin Surace, an inventor, keynote speaker, and the "father of the virtual assistant." They take a high-energy deep dive into the present-day impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the insurance industry. Kevin explains that the AI revolution is not a future event—it's happening right now. He details how AI is set to transform every aspect of insurance, from automating claims processing and quotation to serving as a powerful co-pilot for salespeople. They discuss practical, actionable ways agents can use AI today to find new clients, refine their sales pitch, and handle objections more effectively. Key Highlights: The AI Revolution is Now, Not Later Kevin Surace delivers his core message with urgency: the "train has left the station" on AI. He argues that professionals must choose to become "robot overlords"—experts in leveraging AI—or they will be crushed by competitors who do. This isn't a future trend to watch; it's a present-day reality that demands immediate adoption. Automating the Insurance Back Office The conversation explores the massive operational impact of AI. Kevin explains how AI is already capable of automating huge portions of the insurance value chain, including claims processing (issuing payments in minutes based on photos) and underwriting (generating complex quotes in real-time), which will drastically lower costs for AI-first companies. AI as a Salesperson's Superpower This highlight covers the practical tools for producers. The discussion details how agents can use AI today as a personal research assistant for meeting prep, a sales coach to "poke holes" in their pitch, and a writing assistant to instantly craft perfect responses to client objections, giving them an insurmountable edge. The Rise of the AI Agent The episode looks at the next evolution of customer interaction: AI agents (video chatbots) with realistic avatars and voice cloning. Kevin discusses his own "virtual Kevin," which holds real-time conversations with website visitors 24/7. They explore how this technology can automate Tier 1 support and even close sales for simpler products, creating new, passive revenue streams. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Kevin Surace LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp Appvance Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    54 mins
  • Why Stand Alone Cyber Beats BOPT Extensions Every Time with Zane Goldthorp

    Why Stand Alone Cyber Beats BOPT Extensions Every Time with Zane Goldthorp
    Oct 10 2025
    In the fourth and final installment of this Shoptalk series, host David Carothers and Zane Goldthorp of ProWriters tackle a critical issue facing agents every day: the vast difference between a standalone cyber policy and a simple BOP or package endorsement. They call out the laziness of settling for an endorsement, highlighting the massive coverage gaps it leaves and the E&O exposure it creates for the agent. Zane shares real-world horror stories of agents discovering their client's six-figure loss wasn't covered by their BOP. The conversation provides a clear, strategic path for agents to transition clients to proper coverage and use the inadequacy of endorsements as a powerful competitive wedge against other agents. Key Highlights: Standalone Policy vs. BOP Endorsement: A Massive Chasm The core of the episode is a stark warning: a BOP endorsement for cyber is not real protection. Zane explains that when compared side-by-side, endorsements lack critical coverage, have minuscule sublimits for events like social engineering, and often omit coverage entirely for sophisticated attacks like invoice manipulation, leaving clients dangerously exposed. The E&O Nightmare of "Good Enough" Coverage Zane shares his experience taking calls from frantic agents whose clients have suffered a major loss, only to find their BOP endorsement is useless. These situations not only lead to losing the client but also put the agency's own E&O policy on the line for failing to provide adequate counsel and coverage. Cyber as the Ultimate Competitive Wedge If you're prospecting an account and discover their current agent has them on a BOP endorsement, it's "game over." David and Zane explain how an agent with a standalone offering can easily tear the endorsement apart, create immense doubt in the incumbent, and win not just the cyber business but likely the entire account. Breach vs. Privacy vs. System Failure The conversation clarifies that a cyber claim doesn't always require a security breach. Standalone policies respond to a wider range of events, including privacy breaches (like a lost laptop) and dependent system failures. Using the real-world CrowdStrike outage as an example, they illustrate a massive business interruption scenario that would be covered by a standalone policy but never by a BOP. Connect with: Zane Goldthorp LinkedIn David Carothers LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp ProWriters Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    30 mins
  • Why Being Liked is Killing Your Sales with Austin Medlin

    Why Being Liked is Killing Your Sales with Austin Medlin
    Oct 8 2025
    In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, host David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck are joined by Austin Medlin of closedsales.com for a deep dive into the psychology of high-ticket sales. Austin, a sales expert with a 60% close rate on cold traffic, shares his journey from a natural-born hustler to a seven-figure closer. The conversation centers on overcoming the biggest hurdle for most salespeople: the fear of rejection and the need to be liked. Austin breaks down his framework for winning sales, which prioritizes deep discovery to build trust and emotional alignment before the pitch. He stresses the importance of being a leader in the sales process and why call review is the most critical tool for improvement. Key Highlights: Sales is Service: Overcoming the Need to be Liked Austin Medlin argues that the biggest failure in sales is prioritizing being liked over being trusted and effective. He explains that a salesperson's true role is to serve by telling the truth and helping a prospect make a decision that will improve their life. This requires a "temporary loss of likeness" in order to be "loved later" when the client achieves results. The Power of Deep Discovery This highlight details Austin's core sales strategy. Before any pitch, a salesperson must win the prospect's heart by asking deep, intelligent questions about their pain points and challenges. This process builds genuine trust, making the eventual pitch and objection handling feel like an act of service, not a pushy, commission-focused tactic. Scripts Fail, Frameworks Succeed The conversation covers the limitation of rigid sales scripts. Austin explains why he teaches a flexible framework instead. Because every human is different (masculine, feminine, rich, poor), a framework allows a salesperson to adapt their approach to the individual, leading to significantly higher close rates than trying to fit every prospect into the same box. Call Review: The Ultimate Growth Hack Austin and David agree that there is no substitute for reviewing your "game footage." The single most effective way to improve is to listen to your own sales calls and the calls of top performers on your team. They also debunk the "I don't have time" excuse, stating that if mastering your craft isn't a priority, you're in the wrong profession. Connect with: David Carothers LinkedIn Austin Medlin LinkedIn Kyle Houck LinkedIn Visit Websites: Power Producer Base Camp CloseSales.com Killing Commercial Crushing Content Power Producers Podcast Policytee The Dirty 130 The Extra 2 Minutes
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    35 mins