Insurance After Dark

Click here to send us your thoughts! Olivier Egli joins IAD to discuss the impact of AI on independent agencies. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, Noel Tuazon, Workers Comp Specialist, joins IAD to break down why agents hesitate to get into commercial insurance. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Grief is something many of us carry in silence. We may be insurance professionals, but we are human beings first. In this special episode, we sit down with Nina Rodriguez, a grief-informed guide who helps us navigate the conversations we need to have — with our employees and with ourselves — when facing loss. It's a reminder not to shut out the parts of us that make us human.Learn more about Nina here: griefandlight.comListen to Nina's podcast: Grief and Light podcastThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Vira and Carlos sit down with Dave Rose, Head of Agency at bolt, for an honest conversation about the independent insurance space. With over 20 years at Liberty Mutual and Travelers under his belt, Dave brings a perspective that's equal parts industry veteran and forward thinker. They dig into what today's insurance consumer actually wants — spoiler: it's not that different from what they always wanted — and why the independent agent has not only survived but continued to gain market share despite years of predictions otherwise. Dave also breaks down how bolt helps agency owners meet their customers where they are. A great listen for anyone navigating the evolving landscape of independent agency ownership.Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! New year, same hosts—Carlos and Vira kick things off with a timely conversation on where insurance is headed, featuring Katie Gold, VP of Insurance at The Zebra (TheZebra.com). Katie breaks down how insurtech is evolving, why consumer education is the real “sales strategy,” and how AI can make advisors sharper (not obsolete). Expect real talk, personal stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at scaling a modern insurance operation.Key HighlightsMeet the guest: Katie Gold, 16+ years in insurance (sales, claims, agency leadership, recruiting, ops) and 5+ years at The ZebraFrom cars → claims → leadership: Why claims work builds empathy, trust, and better “moment of truth” advicePersonal connection: Losing a family home to a fire shaped her purpose in insurance—make hard moments easier for peopleWhy The Zebra: Independent model = shop multiple carriers and fit coverage to the customer (not the other way around)Digital + human support: 70% of traffic stays digital, but the option to talk to a person is still thereAI: fear vs. leverage: AI won’t replace you—someone using AI will; the point is efficiency + better coaching + better routingTrust + education: Biggest misconception with online insurance is trust—education bridges the gap“Full coverage” pet peeve: Katie explains why that phrase causes confusion and why clarifying questions matterLeadership style: “Heart + innovation” = move fast without leaving your people behindAdvice to new agents: It’s an exciting time to enter the industry—tools and learning are faster than everQuick Takeaway If your insurance experience feels like a chore, you’re not alone—but the best companies are building options: fast digital paths when you want speed, and real humans when you want confidence.Learn more: https://www.thezebra.comThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! We welcome Majda Baltic back to break down what it really means to run a 100% virtual insurance agency. In the episode, Majda explains that “virtual” isn’t just working remotely, it’s a full operational model where AI, automations, and centralized systems handle quoting, servicing, and workflows so the business doesn’t rely on individuals. She also unpacks what being “digital” (paperless, cloud-based systems) and “green” (lean operations with lower overhead and higher profit) really means. The episode sets up a live discussion with agents who want to learn how to scale, simplify, and build more freedom through a truly virtual agency model.Learn more: majdabaltic.comThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we ask you to get in better shape, professionally. We also dive into our 2025 reflections. And, some fun stuff is coming your way in 2026! Wishing you all Happy Holidays. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we’re joined by Samantha Tradelius, an insurance professional who turns big ideas into real-world impact. With two decades of business experience, a leadership role in the insurance industry, and the heart behind The Sparkle Foundation, she brings grit, generosity, and unmistakable sparkle to everything she touches. From boardrooms to classrooms to global stages, she’s redefining leadership, empowering women, and building communities that actually move the needle. We're excited to have her on Insurance After Dark. Learn more: www.samanthatradelius.comThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, you'll meet Majda Baltic (pronounced Mida, like in the expression "she's got the Mida's Touch") an Insurance Agency Owner that went 100% digital before digital was cool (long before carriers embraced the concept). Majda shares her story of struggle, survival and success in this interview that is not to be missed. If you're ready to go digital, take notes as you listen to this episode. Enter Majda's world here: majdabaltic.comThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! We continue to bring you more from ITC Vegas 2025. In this episode, you'll hear from three amazing guests as they share their experiences in our industry. Tip: if you've been looking for a Home outlet, you can't miss this episode. We hope you enjoy these clips. Aaron Ealy - Trucker Path Insurance Brad Stoub - Openly Jessica - CA Insurance Agent David Dwanyen, Kerry Sullivan - SuperAgent AIJon Spaugy - ABU Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! This is our first big group episode and we can't wait for you to hear it. Thank you Jose Arellano, Zaira Fernandez, Mike Campos, Charley Todd and Christine Mason for being on the show!! Make sure to follow them on Linkedin to keep up with their AI journeys. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, Stephanie opens up about stepping into the family business and the lessons she’s learned (and still learning!) along the way. If you’re taking over your parents’ agency, or preparing to hand yours down, you have to listen to this episode.Learn more about Stephanie and AllRiskThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we talk to Chief Revenue & Distribution Officer, and our good friend, Tyler Nicholson of Aspire General Insurance. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! We've got Drake from ITC Vegas back on the show, and he has a PROMO code for you. In this episode, you'll hear why as an agency owner you can't miss this year's event in October! Learn more: ITC Agents & BrokersThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we meet the Young Risk Professionals of Vegas. If you're an agent in Vegas, this episode is for you. Learn more about YPR Vegas, Danielle and Alex here: Young Risk ProfessionalsThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we get into current events and how they impact our industry. And, of course, Carlos rabbit holes on an insurance question. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we remark on how quiet things are right and get into something that really bugs Carlos. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Are you overwhelmed by all the Insurtech out there? Listen to this episode before you buy more tech- especially, if you're a newbie! Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! You guys are going to get to meet "special" agent, Jose Arellano. He goes deep into the fears of selling something new (in his case, commercial insurance) mentorship and the importance of investing in yourself. He also shares his creative way of getting passed the gatekeeper. You can find Jose on IG: @jose_arellano013 Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! If you didn't attend this year's ABU Convention, get the recap here. People from across the US rolled out. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! There are some things an agent never wants to hear from a client... "I thought I was covered for that..."Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! This episode goes into tax payer funds and public perception. What do you think is the truth?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Is it ever the right time to start your own agency?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Carlos breaks down what was discussed at the town hall and gives his perspective. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Everything's cool until it's not. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! New to insurance? Welcome! We can't wait to hear all about your shattered expectations. Just kidding! Insurance is the best. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! After what CA just experienced, selling is done. You need to educate more than you ever have. You need to listen, be compassionate and patient because the consumer just got harder to sell to. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! This episode was first shared on 08/03/2023. In this episode, we reflect on previous conversations and what sets us apart from other podcasts.Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! What happens after you make the sale? Do you forget about your client?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! We thank the person(s) that emailed us and inspired this episode. Thank you for sharing how you feel right now. It's not easy. We appreciate your openness and we hear you. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we speak to someone that is living proof that it is never too late to start in insurance. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! People are angry with insurance companies right now. There is some justification but there is also a lot of misinformation being spread. We're sad that this is the way we kick off the new year, but life comes at you no matter what. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! This episode first aired in Feb 2024. Did you attend a few networking events? Are you going to make it a point to attend some in 2025?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we spend a little more time discussing the UHC incident. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! In this episode, we talk about a few things that took place in during the few weeks we took a break. We'll be back next week with more updates. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! This episode first aired on September 28, 2023: Do you do other things besides insurance? What other businesses help you stay afloat? Is insurance your main source of income?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! First aired on Feb 1, 2024: Carey Wallace of Agency Focus digs deep into the mechanism of buying or selling an agency. She shares insights that can benefit your agency valuation immediately.Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Jeff Arnold, aka the "Insurance Futurist" (as Vira dubbed him), takes IAD on a captivating journey in this episode. We dive into tech, history, ego, limitations, and endless possibilities. Get ready to walk away feeling SO proud to be part of the insurance industry.To learn more about Jeff, visit: https://jeffarnold.com/Free resources for you: https://jeffarnold.com/books/Follow Jeff on LinkedinThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! How can you not love an industry that thinks about your family and healthcare should you get abducted by aliens?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Rocio Luna, a commercial insurance expert, joins us to talk about Workers Comp and risk management- two aspects of insurance that we tend to over-complicate. Listen, learn and apply! Learn more: https://www.rociolunains.com/Linkedin: Rocio LunaThank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Election day is almost here and things are getting heated. Do you post your political opinions online? Do you think in can hurt your business? Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Here's the ITC Agents recap in Vegas. We give you the pros and cons and you'll also hear from some of your CA agency owner colleagues. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review!Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Are you selling during AEP this year or are you putting off doing Medicare once again? Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Think of this episode as a "current events" conversation. If you plan on attending ITC Agents in Las Vegas, use promo code ITCAHALF at check-out. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Did you attend the AAA24? If you didn't, here's a recap. If you did, how was it for you? Send us your thoughts. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Running a business is tough. It's also rewarding, thrilling, fulfilling and all-consuming. It's easy to put the business before family, friends, self-care. You have to remember that you got into this to gain freedom, not lose it. Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! We get into our favorite insurance movies in this episode. You'd be surprised how many are out there. What's your favorite insurance movie?Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review! 

Click here to send us your thoughts! Having that difficult conversation with your CSR.Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to leave a review!