#89 - Proving Them Wrong: Heart & Hustle with Kari Hargrave

Kari Hargrave is the definition of grit, creativity, and community. From launching a scratch insurance agency in a town with no stoplights to bagging groceries for free just to meet people, Kari’s story is a masterclass in hustle, heart, and doing things differently. In this conversation, Scott and Kari unpack what it really takes to build a business, a brand, and a life you’re proud of—without losing your humanity along the way.💡 What you’ll learn:Why being told “you’ll never make it” was the fuel Kari needed to prove them all wrongCreative, grassroots strategies Kari used to grow her agency from zero to one of the most respected in the countryThe marketing rituals and handwritten habits that still matter in a digital worldWhy she started a true crime podcast—and how it led to winning a Webby AwardHow she’s helping other agents win with her new venture, RingleadersThis episode is full of laughs, lessons, and real talk from one of the most inspiring agents in the game. Don’t miss it!---Episode Markers:(0:00) - Scott's Intro(1:15) - Welcome + Kari’s Energy and Background(2:15) - Starting an Agency from Scratch (Literally)(10:30) - Early Hustle: Grocery Bagging and Grassroots Marketing(12:30) - Serving the Hispanic Community and Building Loyalty(16:00) - Marketing That Still Works: Handwritten Cards and Schools(19:15) - Onboarding, Expectations, and Communication Preferences(23:15) - Working with Younger Generations & Hiring for Hustle(27:15) - Traits Kari Looks for in New Hires(31:15) - Launching a True Crime Podcast and Winning a Webby(35:15) - Starting Ringleaders: A Business Built to Solve a Real Problem(39:15) - Female Leadership, Customer Experience, and Team Support(41:15) - Rapid Fire Questions & Final Thoughts---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right Book Pre Sales - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.comReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Insurance Agency Optimization - https://www.agencyoptimization.comScott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates---Kari Hargrave's Links:FB - https://www.facebook.com/KariHargraveAgencyTrue Texas Crime Pod - https://open.spotify.com/show/0ct7Pu7GIgyWj3IF7y2b6L