The Podcast Is Changing | Advice Every Scratch Insurance Agency Owner Needs

In this episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast, Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald have an open conversation about where the podcast is headed—and a lesson every scratch insurance agency owner needs to hear: be careful who you take advice from.After more than 160 episodes, years of building their own agencies, and countless conversations with coaches, vendors, agency owners, and industry professionals, Stephen and Shawn have seen more of what happens behind the scenes. And sometimes, what you see online doesn’t match reality.They discuss why scratch agency owners should look beyond social media hype, carefully vet coaches and vendors, understand the incentives behind recommendations, and ask one critical question before spending thousands of dollars: **Has this person actually done what they’re teaching me to do?**Stephen and Shawn also reflect on the future of the Scratch Agency Podcast. Moving forward, expect more solo episodes, more conversations about what’s actually happening inside their agencies, and a more intentional approach to bringing on guests who can provide real, proven value to the community.🔍 **If you’re building a scratch insurance agency and investing in coaching, software, marketing, or professional services, this episode is a reminder to do your homework, question the hype, and learn from people who have actually accomplished what you’re trying to achieve.**🕒 **Timestamps:**00:00 – Opening & Welcome to Episode 17401:56 – Why the Scratch Agency Podcast Is Changing02:39 – Be Careful Who You Take Advice From03:37 – Transparency Around Sponsors & Recommendations05:12 – Before Spending Thousands, Do Your Homework06:59 – Have They Actually Done What They Teach?08:33 – Looking Behind the Curtain09:57 – Learn From People Who Have Actually Done It11:30 – More Solo Episodes & What’s Coming Next12:34 – Closing Thoughts & The Scratch Agency Community💼 **Sponsored by HawkSoft**https://www.hawksoft.comA family-owned and operated agency management system serving independent agencies with teams from one to 300+ employees. HawkSoft continues to listen to its agents, act on user feedback, and build its platform around the needs of independent insurance agencies.🔗 **Links & Resources:**📸 Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thescratchagencypodcast🎧 Listen on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7hutxCZ5NUPqF5hRdC79Hl🌐 Visit Our Website:https://scratchagencypodcast.comThank you for tuning in to another episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast!👍 Like the show.📤 Share the show with another scratch insurance agency owner.🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.Most importantly, remember to **dig down deep, believe in yourself, and own your own future.**