The Independent Adjuster Podcast (IA Path)

My father-in-law Mark spent 25 years becoming one of the best auto damage estimators in the industry. He started as a painter, worked his way through body repair, estimating, shop management, and eventually became an independent appraiser.He trained me in 6 months.Two years ago a student named Ty went through our program in 12 days, then deployed to a hailstorm and trained under the same mentor.Same man. Completely different timelines.In this episode I unpack what that compression tells us about where the collision and claims industry is heading and why the fossil workforce crisis is more urgent than anyone is admitting publicly. One in four adjusters retires by 2027. The knowledge leaves with them. And AI alone won't fill that gap.This is what the Renewable Workforce is and why it might be the most important conversation this industry isn't having yet.

Tom Vogel certified with IA Path in June 2020, right in the middle of Covid, when everyone else was shutting down. Five years later he's still in the field, still working six firms, and still answering direct messages from community members with questions.He joined our Monday night office hours to share what five years of building an independent appraiser business actually looks like. The boundaries that protect your sanity. The time blocking that keeps you from working until 2am, even when you still sometimes do. The week he landed 14 heavy equipment claims at one location and walked away with $3,700. The routing app he uses for free because he refuses to pay $10 a month for the pro version.And yes, he did all of this with five grandkids running up and down the hallway.This is what a real career in this industry looks like. Not the highlight reel. The whole thing.

Strategic licensing is the key to landing auto desk deployments, with firms prioritizing adjusters who hold multiple state licenses for maximum claim-handling flexibility. While most experienced desk adjusters eventually acquire 20+ licenses, you can gain an advantage by strategically selecting which licenses to obtain first.• Firms filter deployment candidates by looking for adjusters with licenses in all affected states• Weather patterns should guide your licensing strategy (Midwest states for hail season, Gulf states for hurricane season)• Hard-to-obtain licenses like South Carolina appraiser's or New York adjuster license make you more valuable• States requiring special appraiser's licenses create barriers that can help you make the "short list"• Having licenses in frequently hit states increases your chances of being selected for deployments• Knowledge and competence remain essential—licenses alone won't help if you can't do the jobKeep walking your path and claiming your life!

Wondering how to land that dream work-from-home auto adjusting position? This episode unveils the pathways to remote work in the independent adjusting world that many aspiring adjusters don't fully understand.I break down the crucial distinction between desk deployments (working at a call center or office) and genuine remote work (from your home or location of choice). For auto total loss adjusters, the typical journey begins with proving yourself in a controlled environment for 2-3 weeks before earning the trust to take your laptop home. The financial upside is significant - maintaining that $400/day rate while eliminating all travel expenses makes these positions incredibly valuable.While competition exists for these roles, they're more accessible than most realize. Success hinges on two key factors: appropriate licensing in states with active claims and demonstrating competence that instills confidence in your ability to work independently. I also explore the alternative path through auto damage remote work, where adjusters write estimates from photos submitted from the field. This option typically pays per claim ($10-$20 each) rather than daily rates, creating different opportunities and challenges.The choice between these paths involves important tradeoffs. Auto total loss remote work provides steady, predictable income but requires strict adherence to schedules with little flexibility during working hours. Auto damage remote opportunities offer more freedom but potentially inconsistent claim volume. Whether you're seeking a primary income source or supplemental earnings alongside field adjusting, understanding these distinctions will help you navigate toward the remote opportunity that best fits your goals and lifestyle. Ready to explore these options further? Contact us at 844-4-IAPATH or check out our certifications at iapath.com to build the experience requirements necessary for these positions.

Every adjuster dreams of landing those long-term deployments that offer stability and consistent income. The secret? Auto desk deployments – but not just any desk role will do.In this eye-opening episode, I share insights from my experience during Hurricane Sandy, where I witnessed firsthand the crucial difference between short-term field deployments and months-long desk opportunities. Drawing from both personal experience and knowledge gained from family members who became supervisors in the industry, I reveal why total loss adjusting positions are the golden ticket to sustained deployment work. While field auto adjusters typically wrap up their catastrophe work in 1-3 weeks, total loss adjusters often remain deployed for months, earning $400-500 daily.The industry faces a significant training gap in preparing adjusters for these specialized roles. Most firms offer woefully inadequate preparation – some as brief as five to seven minutes – which explains why many adjusters get sent home early from what could have been long-term assignments. I walk through exactly what total loss adjusters do: negotiating settlements with vehicle owners, determining accurate valuations, managing salvage, verifying liens, and processing titles. These responsibilities require specific knowledge that goes well beyond basic adjuster training.Ready to position yourself for these coveted long-term deployments? I share exactly what you need to do – from acquiring the right licenses to seeking specialized training that will help you succeed where others fail. Whether you're looking to diversify your adjuster career or find more stability in this volatile industry, this episode gives you the roadmap to scoring those elusive, lucrative auto desk deployments that keep you working when others are sent home.

The skies are rumbling and "nickels, dimes, quarters, and half dollars" are falling across the country – it's hail season! For independent adjusters, this means opportunity is literally raining down. Are you positioned to capitalize on these $500 per day catastrophic deployments?

The journey into independent adjusting can be overwhelming, but this episode empowers aspiring adjusters to take charge. We guide you through essential tips and strategies to transform knowledge into action, helping you navigate the complexities ahead.• Introduction to independent adjusting and its significance • Key strategies for building a strong professional network • Importance of taking action and learning from experiences If you have more questions or would like custom advice for your situation, email Chris or call 844-4-IAPATH. 

Navigating the onboarding process can feel overwhelming. We discuss the essential steps and offer insights on how to position yourself for success in the independent adjusting field. • Overview of the onboarding process and its purpose • Essential documents required for onboarding success • Insights into what to expect during onboarding interactions Launch your independent adjusting career by following our guidelines and strategies for success. Stay engaged with the firms that onboard you, as consistent follow-up can make all the difference! 

Connecting effectively through networking is essential for success as an independent adjuster. Visibility and relationship-building are important in transitioning from a new professional to a respected member of the industry.• Understanding the importance of networking for new adjusters • Building a polished online presence with platforms like LinkedIn • Creating and nurturing genuine relationships in the industry Start building connections today and watch as opportunities begin to find you. 

Tailoring your resume is key to landing your job, especially in the independent adjusting field. A well-crafted resume can act as a high-impact advertisement for your skills and qualifications, grabbing attention in mere seconds. • A resume isn't just a job history, but a marketing tool to sell yourself • Customization is essential for each job application, using keywords from postings • Keep your resume to one page, focusing on relevant skills and experiences If you're looking to refine your resume, download the free template from the IA Starter Kit to get started!

Certification isn’t just a rite of passage; it’s a pivotal step that bridges the gap between knowing and doing in the independent adjusting world. This episode explores the importance of certifications like Auto Damage and CCC1, showcasing how they empower adjusters and validate their skills, illustrated by Linda Thompson’s inspiring transition into the industry. • Importance of certifications as professional validation • Overview of Auto Damage certification's practical skills • Significance of mastering CCC1 software • Linda Thompson's journey from USPS to adjusting • Boosting confidence and capability through certifications • Encouragement to pursue recognized certifications with IA Path

Starting a business as an independent adjuster involves practical steps that lead to empowerment and independence. From obtaining your EIN to getting the right insurance, each action taken brings you closer to establishing a professional identity. • Emphasis on transforming dreams into action • Steps to obtain EIN for business identity • Importance of creating your company structure • Necessity of opening a dedicated business bank account • Role of insurance in protecting your business

This episode reveals that merely being licensed as an independent adjuster is not enough to secure work. It emphasizes the importance of practical skills, mentoring, certifications, and the limitations of relying on IA firm training.• Importance of foundational skills and training • IA firms as customers, not educators • Transforming training experiences into career opportunities • The value of finding a mentor in the field • Certification programs that enhance employability • Gaining practical experience through body shop work • The advantages and risks of online vs. in-person training • Hidden costs of low-cost training options • Overview of IAPATH’s comprehensive training program

The episode explores the essential licensing requirements for independent adjusters, detailing the steps needed to obtain the necessary credentials based on various scenarios in the field. It emphasizes the importance of understanding state regulations and provides actionable guidance for aspiring adjusters to navigate their careers effectively.• Key licensing considerations for independent adjusters • Differences between auto damage appraisers and adjusters • State-specific licensing requirements and resources • Importance of practical training before licensing exams • Benefits and opportunities of catastrophic claims work • Strategies for obtaining non-resident adjuster licenses • Steps to enhance your competitive edge in the industry

The episode explores the IA Advantage & the EXP Free Roadmap, a mindset shift that empowers independent adjusters to focus on daily auto claims for career success. By emphasizing local competition, affordability, and flexibility, listeners learn how to take control of their path and thrive in the industry.• Introduction to the IA Advantage and its significance • Advantages of focusing on daily auto claims over catastrophic ones • Local competition improves odds for independent adjusters • Consistent daily claims provide continuous opportunities for work • Lower startup costs and financial barriers for daily auto adjusting • Flexibility allows for part-time work and career transitions • Success story of an adjuster who thrived using the IA Advantage • Overview of the two-phase, seven-step EXP free roadmap • Encouragement to take control and start building an independent adjusting career

Independent adjusting can feel like a lottery, with many new professionals struggling to navigate the traditional path dominated by high-stakes competition and financial barriers. Exploring alternatives can provide a clearer roadmap to success that enables direct engagement and career satisfaction.• The traditional IA path is fraught with challenges • Competition is fierce, with thousands of licensed adjusters • Waiting for catastrophic events leads to uncertainty • Significant upfront costs hinder entry into the field • Quitting stable jobs can create financial strain • The high-pressure environment can lead to reputational risk • A restructured roadmap can enhance individual success

This episode explores the various paths within the insurance adjusting industry, detailing the roles of company adjusters, public adjusters, and independent adjusters. We dive into how adjusters are compensated, the types of claims they handle, and how to identify which path suits you best in your career. • Overview of types of adjusters: company, public, and independent • In-depth description of different claims adjusters manage • Distinction between adjusters and appraisers • Defining catastrophic versus daily claims • Breakdown of payment structures for adjusters

We explore the essential elements that define a career as an independent adjuster, discussing the roles, responsibilities, and skills required. You'll gain insight into the necessary steps to navigate this career path and understand key concepts that can lead to success. • Examination of what defines an independent adjuster • Overview of the core activities in adjusting claims • Importance of effective communication in the role • Licensing requirements explained in detail • Insight into gaining practical experience efficiently • Tools for building skills and confidence in the field

Discover how to break into the independent adjusting industry without prior experience through our innovative EXP-Free Roadmap. This episode is the kick off to the newly revised and completely re-written Independent Adjuster's Playbook.

New adjusters often find themselves wondering how to translate their licenses into actual job opportunities. This episode highlights the importance of proving competency through certifications and real-world experience to successfully secure work in the independent adjusting field.• Understanding the challenges faced by new adjusters• The misconception that a license guarantees employment• The nature of IA firms as dispatching companies• The need for certifications to demonstrate competency• Alternative paths to gain relevant experience• Strategies to effectively prove skills to IA firms• Recommended resources for securing work in adjusting

This episode reveals the fundamental factors that determine the income potential and workload for Independent Adjusters, focusing on the significance of market conditions and effective marketing strategies. The discussion includes insights on market expansion, realistic income expectations, and the importance of persistence in outreach efforts, ultimately empowering listeners to take control of their careers. • Market conditions significantly influence income potential • Expanding geographical areas can lead to more opportunities • Effective marketing builds reputation and generates connections • Realistic earning expectations vary widely • Past experiences, like sales, enhance marketing abilities • Persistence is crucial for engaging potential clients • Independent Adjusters should operate as business owners • Strategic actions can unlock greater success in the industry

This episode explores the considerations independent adjusters must ponder when contemplating raising their rates. Listeners learn how market demand and workload should influence pricing decisions rather than arbitrary increases.• Understanding the payment structures for independent adjusters • Key indicators suggesting a rate increase is appropriate • Recognizing the importance of demand in setting prices • Strategies for attracting more work without increasing rates • The advantages of diversifying service offerings for better income • Emphasizing a business owner mindset in pricing decisions

The episode explains the significance of attending the National Association of Catastrophic Adjusters Conference, emphasizing the potential networking and educational benefits. Personal experiences and details about the IAPath team’s involvement highlight the value of participation while addressing the costs associated with the event.• Introduction to the NACA Conference and its purpose • Overview of membership fees and conference costs • Personal anecdotes illustrating benefits of attending • Details about IAPath’s presence and new book launch • Educational presentations planned for the conference • The importance of building professional relationships at NACA

The episode delves into the complexities of starting a career in insurance adjusting amidst the significant wildfire season in California. We discuss the barriers for newcomers, including licensing challenges, competition with veteran adjusters, and alternative paths to gain experience within the industry.• Overview of current wildfire events and implications for new adjusters • Licensing difficulties in California for aspiring adjusters • The impact of vehicle mobility on wildfire claims • Competition from veteran adjusters for wildfire-related claims • Seasonal challenges affecting job availability in winter months • Opportunities for new adjusters through programs like IA Path • Encouragement for newcomers to pursue experience in daily claims

This episode reveals the misconceptions surrounding the experience requirement in independent adjusting, challenging the notion that prior experience is essential to enter the field. It discusses various paths for newcomers, emphasizing mentorship, training, and resilience as critical components to successfully breaking into the industry. • Addressing the myth of mandatory experience • Personal story of training a friend for adjusting • Frustrations faced when new entrants are overlooked • Opportunities during catastrophic events for beginners • Importance of mentorship and training programs • IAPath's model for helping newcomers succeed • Alternative certification options for aspiring adjusters • The critical role of networking and connections • Encouragement for listeners to pursue their paths in adjusting

This episode marks a fresh start for the Independent Adjuster Podcast, where we introduce exciting new directions for IA PATH and the concept of the Pathfinder. Through an innovative EXP-free career path model, we empower independent adjusters to break free from traditional experience requirements and take control of their careers. • Celebration of the podcast's return after a hiatus • Shift in IA PATH’s mission to support aspiring independent adjusters • Introduction of the EXP-free career path model with four foundational pillars • Unifying term “Pathfinder” to define graduates and members • Presentation of the “Pathfinder Manifesto” outlining core beliefs • Call for engagement and suggestions for future episode topics

In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Matt Epert, CEO of Crash Champions, the third-largest body shop chain in the nation, to uncover the future of collision repair and what it means for independent adjusters and estimators. Matt breaks down how he grew from a single shop to a 600-location powerhouse, and what that explosive growth means for YOU.If you’re an independent adjuster or a collision estimator, this episode is packed with industry insights you can’t afford to miss. Matt dives into:The critical role of collision estimators and why they’re the backbone of the industry.How AI and technology are reshaping the future of estimating, and why your human skills will always be in demand.Why knowing both CCC One and Mitchell can give you a serious edge in your career.How to break into the industry with zero experience and make a name for yourself in a field desperate for skilled professionals.Matt also shares behind-the-scenes details of major acquisitions, like the Service King deal, and how they’re creating even more opportunities for independent adjusters and collision estimators nationwide.Whether you’re looking to expand your skills, break into the industry, or prepare for the AI-driven future of collision repair, Matt’s insights offer a roadmap to success. This is your chance to hear directly from one of the top leaders in collision repair about how to thrive in today’s market.

Chris Stanley and Mathew Allen of AdjusterTV dive deep into what it takes to make it big this hurricane season as an independent adjuster.This 2 1/2hr special covers most things a new adjuster needs to know to be successful including a full hour of live Q&A!The first part of the presentation covers the 4 keys.Then Mathew Allen talks about his program and how he helps new IA's, followed by the Q&A session.You don't want to miss this.

One of the worst things to happen to a new independent adjuster or appraiser is to be blacklisted.This is where one or more IA Firms or an insurance company list that an individual should not be given any work... period.If the new person truly offends them they may share with other firms their dislike for the individual and it affects you potentially throughout the industry!This list is also known as the DO NOT CALL list and several other names.I've seen this happen to people for only a few simple reasons...I'm sure you don't want it to happen to you, so I'm going to share how you can avoid this dreadful fate that can stop your career from ever truly taking off.First off, note that if a specific carrier "blacklists" you it doesn't mean your career is over.This simply means you can't work for that specific carrier. I've had people in a panic that they were blacklisted or put on the do not call list for a large carrier worried they'd never be able to work again... but this isn't the case.There are other insurance carriers and plenty of IA Firms you could work for.Onto the list.How to Avoid Being Blacklisted as an Independent Adjuster

What drives a successful career change? From West Texas insurance agent to a thriving independent adjuster in the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth area, Travis's story is a masterclass in perseverance and strategic planning. Tune in as Travis reveals his heartfelt motivations behind leaving sales to genuinely help people, his initial trepidations, and the determined steps he took to transition into the competitive world of auto claims adjusting. Through candid anecdotes, he shares how networking and persistent outreach became the cornerstone of his success.Imagine going from handling just 18 claims in your first month to a whopping 140 claims by the third. That's not just luck; it's the result of targeted training, relentless follow-up, and leveraging every opportunity to build credibility. Travis opens up about the practical steps post-IA PATH certification, the misconceptions about the adjuster lifestyle, and the sheer determination required to break in and thrive in this tough industry. His experiences underscore the powerful blend of persistence, industry knowledge, and quality work that turns a newcomer into a seasoned professional.Ever wondered how to maintain sanity amid a hectic schedule and avoid burnout? Travis discusses the importance of knowing your limits, maintaining transparency, and the critical role confidence plays in the claims industry. From juggling extensive travel to focusing on profitable tasks, his insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to make it big in the insurance world. Whether you're fresh out of school or a veteran in the field, Travis's journey is packed with invaluable lessons on balancing work, leveraging opportunities, and achieving sustained success.

Embark on a captivating expedition into the heart of the auto claims universe with John Gironda from SCA Claims Services. Max Olson navigates through John's enthralling story, illustrating SCA's extraordinary ascent from its modest beginnings to a colossal claims management leader. Travel with us as we unveil the intricate layers of an industry in flux, spotlighting the breakthroughs and ingenuity that have cemented SCA's standing. Marvel at the tales of transformation, where heavy-duty trucks and motorcycles become as familiar as property damage claims, all through the lens of a man whose career scaled from the ground floor of a body shop to the executive heights of SCA's operations.In a parallel narrative thread, witness the empowering success stories of IA Path's graduates who have taken the independent adjusting world by storm. We celebrate their journeys from novices, uncertain of their skills in assignment writing, to confident proprietors and industry stalwarts, some even rising to embody IA Path itself. Their ascension, fostered by our nurturing mentorship and immersive hands-on approach, underscores the potent pathways available to those with the grit to carve out a niche in the ever-evolving independent adjusting landscape. Tune in for a session rich with personal victories and the collective progress shaping the future of insurance claims.

Embark on a journey through the financial intricacies of body shop estimating with the guidance of industry sage, Mark Passmore. Unlock the secrets to boosting your earning potential in this competitive field as Mark, my father-in-law and mentor, lays bare the pathway to climbing from starter salaries in the $40,000 range to commanding figures that can exceed $70,000 with time and finesse. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how embodying confidence and adaptability can make or break your job prospects and salary negotiations.Venture further into the realm of compensation with a deep dive into the salary structures that govern the lives of body shop estimators. From understanding the baseline of entry-level wages to the allure of the six-figure echelons, we explore the myriad pay models that seasoned professionals navigate. Discover how salary plus commission, hourly wages, and straight salary can shape your career trajectory, and why strong negotiation skills are your ticket to leaving a lasting impression on future employers. Mark and I scrutinize these models alongside the per-piece payment method, delivering a comprehensive portrait of the remuneration landscape.The final chapter of our discussion turns the spotlight on career transitions within the auto repair industry, particularly for those shifting from independent adjuster or appraiser roles to becoming body shop estimators. We outline the support systems and training resources available for those ready to pivot their career path. With Mark Passmore's expert commentary, we traverse the nuances of job placement, upskilling, and aligning career moves with your professional goals. Whether you're just turning the ignition or shifting gears in your auto estimating career, this episode is your roadmap to success.

Learn why becoming a body shop estimator may be a great decision in your auto estimating career.While becoming an independent adjuster or appraiser is the perfect career fit for many, others may enjoy working at a shop better.Some people may find that using their skill to write auto damage estimates as a collision estimator may be a better fit for them in their life.Find out why with Chris Stanley's mentor, Mark Passmore, Collision Estimator Trainer and Mentor at IA Path.

Ever wondered how to decode the chaos of hail season into a successful stint as an independent adjuster? This episode is your essential guide to mastering hailstorm tracking and turning severe weather into promising job opportunities. With my firsthand experience and some nifty tools like CoreLogic and Stormersite.com, you'll learn how to pick out the hail events that scream potential work and those that are just nature's bluster. We'll explore why storms rated at level four or five are the ones to watch and how to scrutinize the data for prime deployment areas. Timing and location can be everything when it comes to evaluating the impact of a hailstorm. I'll also share personal anecdotes on interpreting the size of hail and its effects on property and auto claims. Remember to stay connected with us on LinkedIn where we share real-time updates and tips on seizing these atmospheric opportunities. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice that could be the silver lining to the next set of storm clouds.LINKS MENTIONEDCorelogic - https://www.wvs.corelogic.com/wvs-ui/Stormersite - https://www.stormersite.com/NOAA Hail Prediction - https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/exper/day4-8/

Today I want to share some “One-Two Punch” strategies for independent adjusters.(if you want to listen to the extended audio version of this newsletter you can check out our Independent Adjuster Podcast along with the 3The One-Two Punch Strategy: Your Blueprint for SuccessFor many stepping into the realm of independent adjusting, the big question looms: How can I ensure a sustainable career without banking on a rare “home run”? It’s a valid concern, given the tales of adjusters who’ve hit the jackpot with $300,000 earnings in a mere three months. Tempting, isn’t it? But what happens if the grand slam never comes?Here’s where the “One-Two Punch” strategy comes into play, offering a practical approach to carving out a successful, sustainable career in independent adjusting. Let’s dive in.1. Building from the Ground UpNo career journey begins at the summit. Whether you dream of Hollywood fame or corporate success, everyone starts from the bottom. Independent adjusting is no different. It demands earning your stripes, building trust, and mastering your craft. This foundational phase is where you learn the ropes, explore opportunities, and lay down the groundwork for your future successes.2. Embracing a Varied ApproachThe heart of the One-Two Punch strategy lies in diversification. Rarely does one stick to a single task and thrive. The key? Embrace versatility. Here are the combinations that have proven successful for many in the field:Daily Auto and Heavy Equipment Claims: Starting with auto claims paves your way into heavy equipment claims, with significantly higher payouts. This combo not only increases your earning potential but also enhances your skill set and marketability.Daily Auto and Catastrophic (CAT) Hail Claims: Hail season can be a goldmine. By balancing daily auto claims with CAT deployments, you not only ensure a steady income but also open doors to lucrative opportunities during peak seasons.Transitioning into Property Claims: For those with an eye on the long game, starting with auto claims and gradually moving into property claims can be a strategic move. Auto gives you consistent work while property offers a broader scope of work and, potentially, higher earnings.​Chad Burnett, an IA Path graduate, accomplished this with flying colors. See his story by clicking HERE.​3. Building a Multi-Faceted CareerThe essence of sustainability in independent adjusting lies in not putting all your eggs in one basket. Diversify your portfolio by working with multiple companies across different claim types. This not only insulates you from market fluctuations but also broadens your horizons, ensuring a richer, more resilient career path.Conclusion: Your Path to a Thriving CareerUnderstand that there are paths to sustainability. It’s about strategic planning, continuous learning, and embracing the opportunities the industry offers. Remember, your journey as an independent adjuster doesn't always have to be about chasing the elusive home run; it can be about about building a career that’s robust, rewarding, and resilient.P.S. Curious about taking your adjusting career to the next level? Reach out, and let’s explore how the One-Two Punch strategy can work for you with our ​online certifications​ that get the 2-5 year experience requirement waived with over 40 IA Firms.

Have you ever found yourself stretched too thin, saying yes to everything and everyone? It's a trap many of us fall into, and in our latest podcast, we unpack the art of the gracious 'no.' With a candid recount of my own experiences and the wisdom imparted by my mentor, Brad Fancher, we delve into the necessity of setting boundaries for a healthier work-life equilibrium. As an Independent Adjuster who's been in the trenches, I guide you through an exercise that helps weigh the impact of decisions on the four life currencies: time, money, energy, and relationships. This isn't just about thriving in our careers; it's about crafting a life brimming with intention and fulfillment.The idea of a dream life can often feel like a mirage—always on the horizon but never within grasp. But what if I told you that it's possible to live your dream life today? This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation to seize the day and find joy in the now. We discuss the unpredictability of life, the preciousness of time, and how setting goals and appreciating what we've already accomplished—like cherished family moments—can coexist harmoniously. Tune in and join us on a journey towards living intentionally, a life not defined by a checklist of dreams, but colored by the moments that truly count.

Don't miss this replay of our first ever in person event!Imagine stepping into a life where your career aligns perfectly with your deepest values and desires. That's the transformational journey we're guiding you through in today's episode, sparked by the catastrophic auto adjusters boot camp with Kobe Hearn and Ashley Kiderman. We put fresh talent through their paces and set the stage for success, which sets a powerful backdrop for the personal tale of my own leap from warehouse worker to independent adjuster, thanks to a pivotal opportunity from my father-in-law.As your old host, Chris Stanley, I'm laying out the blueprint for shaping the life you've dreamed of, using the world of independent adjusting as our framework. I reminisce about the unconventional spark behind IAPATH and share the profound conversation that propelled my career to new heights, resulting in an online business that empowers adjusters to flourish professionally and personally. It's a narrative bursting with heartfelt advice and the genuine essence of living in harmony with your convictions.We wrap up with a deep dive into the concept of life currencies – time, energy, relationships, and money – and how their interplay crafts a rich, fulfilling existence. I reveal the 'secret sauce' for managing these currencies to enhance your life's quality to its peak. You'll come away from this episode with a renewed perspective on what it means to be rich, not just in wealth but in experiences, freedom, and connection, ready to claim the dream life that is authentically and uniquely yours.

Today Darren Bloomfield interviews Chris Stanley on the Insurance Nerds podcast "A Day in the Life".They talk about a whole host of topics,IA vs AIFuture of ClaimsHow to have work life balanceWhat it's like working remotely from a school bus and sailboatand much much moreCheck out Darren's podcast as well as all the other great Insurance Nerds shows on Youtube

We are quickly approaching hail season so today I’m going to talk to you about the independent adjusting companies you should be onboarding with, so you have a shot at getting work this hail season.While hailstorms don’t grab the mainstream headlines like a major hurricane, independent adjusters and auto damage appraisers often get more work opportunities from hailstorms, more consistently, than hurricanes.To get that work you’ve got to be on the right rosters. Not all rosters are created equal and there are several types of rosters you’ll want to be on if you want the best shot at having dimes, nickels, and quarters raining into your bank account. The wrong ones will leave you at home or at worst holding the bag by not paying you.During my 13 years as an independent appraiser and adjuster I focused 6 of them on just working hail claims during the hail season. I was on the first call list of several rosters and I worked the majority of the hail season. I’ve handled hail claims for 15+ different independent adjusting and appraisal companies and mentored thousands of independent adjusters and appraisers as they dove into the world of catastrophic adjusting.Let’s look at what you need to know to get ready for this hail season.Check out the article on How to Get Work This Hail Season for the lists of companies I mentioned in this episode

Auto liability claims are a great way to get additional work and deployments as an independent adjuster.In this podcast, Chris Stanley walks you through how to complete an auto liability claim as an independent adjuster step by step.What are Auto Liability Claims?Most of us don’t understand liability claims. As a result, we miss out on great work opportunities as independent adjusters. We understand auto damage, a car has damage, or property claims, a tree lands on a house, but what is a liability claim?You can find the visuals and links to the article on this topic by heading to https://iapath.com/auto-liability-claim-steps/

Today we dive into what are the steps of an auto damage claim and what our role is as independent adjusters and appraisers.There are ten steps to an auto damage claims and 14 things we must do to complete our part of those 10 steps.I'll break it all down in this episode and you can see visuals that go along with the episode at https://iapath.com/auto-damage-claim/

Don’t you wish there was an independent adjuster calendar that would clue you in on what to do each month?I’ve been getting a few questions around “How long does it take to get started?” or “Work slowed down, is that normal?”I figured giving you a month by month breakdown of what I’ve seen over the last 13+ years in our industry and what I’ve seen our 750+ adjusters and appraisers in our IA Path Community experience, may help you have proper expectations and be able to create a plan.I’ll give some tips on what you should be doing month to month for both new and working IA’s.Ready? Let’s do this!Download the Calendar by Clicking HERE

Chad Burnett graduated from IA Path in September of 2021 and immediately began getting work as an adjuster. He had been a police officer for 21 years and transitioned into this new career. He loves the work he is doing now as an IA.Chad became an insurance adjuster because he wanted a change of pace after 20 years as a police officer. He knew he could get a pension from the city, and he started looking for a new job. He found insurance adjusting through a Google search, and he watched Matt Allen's Adjuster TV to learn more about the profession.Chad talks about his journey from being a cop to becoming an auto appraiser. The hardest part for him was figuring out all the different parts of the car. He talks about how he has not had a day where he hasn't had a claim in the 14 months since he started and how there is plenty of business. He shares he learns something new every day and that the appraisal industry is much simpler than being a cop.In the conversation, the speaker talks about his biggest challenge with being an insurance adjuster, which is travel. He has learned to say no to some people for these long distance that are two to three-hour trips away. And that has cleared his slate a lot for opening up a lot more around here, making my cycle time a heck of a lot lower.Timestamps0:00:00Chad Burnett: From Police Officer to Adjuster0:02:16Chad's Journey from Police Officer to Insurance Appraiser0:03:39Chad's First Claim: A Conversation0:07:15Insurance Adjuster Discusses Biggest Challenges After One Year on the Job0:09:51The Transition from Auto to Heavy Equipment Appraisal0:11:38The Advantages of Being an Insurance Adjuster0:13:01Insurance Adjuster Discusses the Pros and Cons of His Job0:14:49Leads and Losses: A Conversation with an Insurance Agent0:16:07The Benefits of a College Education in the 21st Century0:17:58Chad's Advice for Independent Adjusters0:19:47Chad's Report Writing Process0:21:25Chad's Success Story as an Independent Adjuster

Today Chris Stanley interviews Creston Haverstraw about her IA journey.Creston started as an independent adjuster 7 months ago and has taken off like a rocket ship. Learn from her story how you can get working and how to be successful as an independent adjuster.Some highlights from this episode are,Hear how Creston completed her pre-licensing in less than two weeks.What she did to get her first desk deployment immediately after becoming licensed.How she transitioned into daily claimsOne of her secrets of her successThis is such a good story that will help you see the path forward to getting started in your independent adjusting or appraising career.

In this finale of the "How to Use Being an Insurance Adjuster to Get What You Want" Chris Stanley breaks down the final step of his goal setting framework.He also discusses the tools we have to accomplish anything in life and which is the most valuable.I hope you'll listen and be inspired to set intentional goals for 2023.

In this episode Chris Stanley continues his presentation on How To Use Being an Insurance Adjuster to Get What You Want Out of Live.He dives into setting milestones and goals for your life based on the direction and dream life you determined.

This episode is part 1 of a presentation Chris Stanley did 1 1/2 years ago at the IA Job Fair.In it, he lays down the first part of a framework for how you get what you want out of life as an independent adjuster.

Today Chris asks you the question we all should answer."Where is it you are trying to go? What is your dream life?"Chris helps you go through the thought process of how to figure it out so you can then figure out how to get there.

Today Chris dives deep into each Life Currencies and explores how you can use these different currencies to claim your life.

To claim your life, you've got to be able to achieve or purchase what you want out of life.Today Chris unveils his new way of thinking about how we purchase things we want in life.He calls it the 4 Life Currencies.- Time- Energy- Money- Relationships