In this episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast , we’re diving into the real-world strategies that help insurance agencies scale — without burning out. Guests Shawn and Stephen return to share their experiences as scratch agents and how they’ve leveraged Virtual employees to streamline operations, build trust, and unlock growth. From wild customer stories to lessons learned the hard way, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and actionable takeaways for any insurance pro looking to optimiz...
Jun 25, 2025•58 min•Season 1Ep. 123
In this episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast, we sit down with Nikhil Kansal, the co-founder of Cara, to explore how AI is transforming the insurance industry. 🚀 🧠 From his deep experience in the insurance space to the creation of Cara, Nikhil breaks down how this innovative tool is helping agencies simplify complex tasks like policy comparisons, certificates of insurance (COIs), and more. 🔧 Learn how Cara seamlessly integrates with management systems like Hawksoft and Applied Epic, and how ...
Jun 17, 2025•36 min•Season 1Ep. 122
In this episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast , we sit down with Landry Fields from Nova Insurance Group to dive deep into how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the insurance industry. From workflow automation to smarter client interactions, Landry shares firsthand insights on the tools, trends, and real-life applications of AI in modern agencies. Chapters : (00:00) – Introduction to AI in Insurance (01:47) – Landry's Journey with Nova Insurance Group (04:09) – Learning Curve in Insuran...
Jun 13, 2025•42 min•Season 1Ep. 121
In this episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome Cody Houk, owner of Prime Risk Insurance Solutions. The conversation delves into Cody's journey in the insurance industry, highlighting the challenges he faced during his early years, the pivotal moments that led to his rebranding, and the marketing strategies he implemented to target contractors effectively. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mentorship, the struggles of entrepreneurship,...
Jun 03, 2025•40 min•Season 1Ep. 120
What's up everybody? Welcome to The Scratch Agency Podcast hosted by Scratch Agents for Scratch Agents. In this episode, Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald discuss their experiences with using AI in their insurance agencies. From AI receptionists to chatbots, they provide insights on how to approach implementing AI tools in your agency effectively. Tune in for valuable tips and real-world examples of utilizing AI technology in insurance. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (00:28) - Overcoming c...
May 27, 2025•21 min•Ep. 119
In this episode of the Scratch Agency podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome Elis Umana, owner of Connection Insurance. Elis shares her journey from starting as a CSR in her father's agency to becoming an agency owner. The conversation delves into the importance of efficiency in agency operations, the role of technology and automation, and how Elis utilizes AI to streamline processes. They discuss the challenges of handling cancellations, the choice of CRM and AMS systems, ...
May 20, 2025•38 min•Season 1Ep. 118
In this episode of The Scratch Agency Podcast , we sit down with David Watson , a leader in tech-driven insurance solutions, to dive deep into how agencies can modernize their proposal process, enhance client engagement, and scale effectively. From custom proposals to integrating tools like Advisor Evolved, QuoteVids, and Risk Advisor, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for agency owners and producers. Whether you're looking to streamline workflows, personalize your proposals, ...
May 13, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 117
In this episode of The Scratch Agency Podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome Whitney Ricci, president of Ritchie Insurance Group. Whitney shares her journey in the insurance industry, from starting as a captive agent to becoming an independent agency owner. She discusses the challenges and successes she faced, including the importance of vision, hiring strategies, and adapting to market changes. Whitney emphasizes the value of building a strong team and the lessons learned ...
Apr 29, 2025•42 min•Season 1Ep. 116
In this episode of the Scratch Agency podcast, hosts Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald welcome James Monreale, founder of SoundRisk LLC. The conversation covers James's journey in the insurance industry, the importance of building strong relationships with wholesalers, and the niche of builders risk insurance. They discuss the significance of good submissions and explore the complexities of terrorism coverage in insurance. The episode emphasizes the value of communication and collaboration i...
Apr 22, 2025•31 min•Season 1Ep. 115
Welcome back to Episode 114 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this solo episode, we dive into some exciting updates and insights for agency owners and entrepreneurs! Don’t miss out! 🕒 (00:00) – Introduction 🕒 (01:24) – Virtual Intelligence Webinar 🕒 (03:34) – The Importance of Virtual Employees in Today’s Market 🕒 (05:10) – Scratch Agency Meetup Announcement 🕒 (10:00) – Event Details & Video Production Enhance your productivity and reclaim time with Virtual Intelligence, our podcast spo...
Apr 18, 2025•13 min•Season 1Ep. 114
Welcome back to episode 113 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Scott Cox to discuss his journey in the insurance industry, the power of community engagement, and how building relationships with local schools can lead to long-term business growth. Scott also shares insights on working in a family business, overcoming challenges as an agency owner, and strategies to focus on revenue and growth. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (01:46) - Scott Cox’s Journey in Insurance 🕒...
Apr 01, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 113
Welcome back to Episode 112 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Mitch Gibson to explore how AI is transforming the insurance industry. From task management to content creation, Mitch shares insights on leveraging AI tools to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and empower agents. Whether you're just starting with AI or looking to optimize your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways! 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (02:49) - Empowering Agents...
Mar 25, 2025•37 min•Season 1Ep. 112
Welcome back to Episode 111 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Zack Gould to talk about the challenges of launching an insurance agency, building a strong team, and the lessons learned from starting over. Whether you're a new agency owner or looking to refine your leadership skills, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! 🕒 (00:00)- Introduction 🕒 (02:34) - Common Challenge for New Agencies 🕒 (07:46) - Leadership & Getting the Most Out of...
Mar 18, 2025•40 min•Season 1Ep. 111
Welcome back to Episode 110 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Michael Cruz to break down the essentials of sales success! From pre-qualifying leads to tracking data and scaling your business, Michael shares his insights on building a strong and consistent sales process. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (03:09) - The Importance of Pre-Qualifying Leads 🕒 (05:59) - Understanding The Three Buckets in Sales 🕒 (08:55) - Tracking and Analyzing Sales Data 🕒 (12:10) - Establ...
Mar 04, 2025•29 min•Season 4Ep. 110
Welcome back to Episode 109 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Staci Shettler to discuss her journey into the insurance industry, the challenges of going independent, and the strategies she’s using to grow her business. From building strong relationships to marketing in a small community, Staci shares invaluable insights for agents looking to make an impact. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (01:33) - Staci’s Journey into Insurance 🕒 (06:20) - Taking the Leap to Indepen...
Feb 25, 2025•34 min•Season 1Ep. 109
Welcome back to Episode 107 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Cyrus Jaffery to discuss his transition from State Farm to independent agency ownership, the keys to building a strong team, and how to balance business and family. Cyrus shares valuable insights on accountability, hiring strategies, leadership, and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive success.🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (01:25) - Cyrus’s Journey: From State Farm to independence 🕒 (06:28...
Feb 18, 2025•36 min•Season 1Ep. 107
Welcome to Episode 108 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! Explore the importance of authenticity, consistency, and engaging with different platforms to build trust with your audience. Learn how to batch plan content and leverage tools for effective content creation. Don't miss out on the key takeaways from Shawn, Ciara, Brett, and the engaging audience Q&A session. 🕒 (00:00) – Introduction 🕒 (00:53) – Engaging with Different Platforms 🕒 (01:20) – Building Trust Through Social Media 🕒 (01:48)...
Feb 11, 2025•50 min•Season 3Ep. 108
Welcome back to Episode 106 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this solo episode, we dive into the journey of growth, lessons learned, and plans for the future. Join me as I reflect on 2024, share insights on building a strong foundation, and discuss goals for 2025. Whether you're focused on scaling your business, embracing challenges, or finding the power of community, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable takeaways. 🕒00:00 - Introduction 🕒02:49 - The importance of processes a...
Jan 23, 2025•27 min•Season 1Ep. 106
Welcome back to Episode 105 of the Scratch Agency Podcast! We sit down with Brad Boldt to dive deep into the world of hiring and onboarding. If you're looking to refine your processes and build a thriving workplace culture, this episode is for you. 🕒(00:00) - Introduction 🕒(01:57) - Discussion on hiring and onboarding process 🕒(03:24) - Importance of creating a structured hiring process 🕒(05:15) - The value of assessing candidates and gathering data 🕒(06:26) - Utilizing team interviews as p...
Jan 16, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 105
Welcome back to Episode 104 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Justin Miller to discuss the essentials of financial management for small businesses. From starting Universal Bookkeeper to diving deep into tax strategies and compliance, Justin shares invaluable insights for small business owners. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (01:53) - The Journey of Universal Bookkeeper 🕒 (04:47) - Understanding Financial Management for Small Businesses 🕒 (11:46) - Tax Strategies fo...
Jan 09, 2025•36 min•Season 1Ep. 104
Welcome back to Episode 103 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode we sit down with Mike Sharp , the owner of Sharp Insurance Agency, to dive into strategies for growth, prospecting, branding, and achieving long-term success. Whether you're an agency owner or someone looking to scale your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights. 🕒 (00:00) – Introduction 🕒 (01:29) – Prospecting Strategies and Growth Goals 🕒 (01:58) – Business Acquisition Opportunities and Valuation 🕒...
Dec 26, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 103
Welcome back to Episode 102 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Osama Al Haymi to delve into the intricacies of claims management. From understanding the claims process to handling catastrophic losses, Osama shares invaluable insights and practical tips to improve client experiences and outcomes. If you're looking to enhance your claims knowledge, this episode is a must-listen! 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction. 🕒 (02:47) - Understanding the Claims Process. 🕒 (05:58) - Set...
Dec 19, 2024•47 min•Season 2Ep. 102
Welcome back to Episode 101 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode we dive deep with Scott Grates , uncovering the secrets behind building strong client relationships, leveraging referrals, and creating unforgettable client experiences. If you're looking to grow your agency and foster meaningful connections, this episode is packed with actionable insights! 🕒( 00:00) - Introduction 🕒 ( 07:12) - The Importance of Mindset and Execution 🕒 ( 14:10) - Building a Successful Team 🕒 ( 20:47) ...
Dec 12, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 101
We're thrilled to celebrate the 100th episode of the Scratch Agency Podcast ! In this special milestone episode, we reflect on our journey, express gratitude for our amazing podcast community, and share incredible insights from the Mastermind event that continues to inspire us. Here's what to expect: 🕒 ( 00:29) - Shawn and Stephen celebrate 100 episodes and thank the podcast community for their support. 🕒 ( 01:56) - Michael Cruz reflects on the authentic connections and positive impact of the ...
Dec 06, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 100
Welcome back to Episode 99 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Erik Garcia to explore his journey in the insurance industry and gain valuable insights into building and growing a successful agency. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, Erik shares lessons learned and strategies that can help you overcome common hurdles and thrive in the business. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (03:06)- Eric Garcia’s Journey in Insurance 🕒 (05:53) - The Importance of Relati...
Nov 28, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 99
Welcome to Episode 98 of The Scratch Agency Podcast ! Stephen and Shawn welcome Sergey Pantileev from DriveEd, an innovative platform that's changing the game for onboarding, training, and scaling in the insurance industry. Whether you're looking for tools to streamline your processes or tips on staying ahead of automation trends, this episode has something for you! 🕒 (00:00) – Introduction 🕒 (00:29) – Use of DriveEd: Shawn discusses DriveEd's role in onboarding and training. 🕒 (01:24) – Back...
Nov 14, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 98
Welcome to Episode 97 of The Scratch Agency Podcast. In this episode, we dive into the art of creating memorable client experiences with the team at T5! Discover how small, thoughtful gestures can lead to big results in client satisfaction and agency growth. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (00:30) - Daily tasks and agency growth 🕒 (01:25) - Handling a customer’s car fire claim 🕒 (01:55) - The importance of promptly introducing clients to adjusters 🕒 (06:30)- Customized card strategy for client g...
Nov 07, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 97
Welcome to Episode 96 of The Scratch Agency Podcast. Join Stephen Turnbull and Shawn Fitzgerald as they sit down with Jeff White , Social Media Manager at Hawksoft , to dive deep into the world of social media strategies for insurance agents. In this episode, Jeff shares his journey, the evolution of Hawksoft's approach to social media, and invaluable tips to boost your online presence. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (01:49) - Jeff's background and experience in social media 🕒 (02:47) - How Hawks...
Oct 29, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 96
Welcome to Episode 95 of The Scratch Agency Podcast . In this episode, Shawn Fitzgerald and Stephen Turnbull dive into the essential art of delegation. Learn how auditing your time and energy can help you focus on high-value tasks while leveraging your team for maximum impact. Whether you're looking to grow your leadership skills or improve operational efficiency, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (02:29) - The importance of auditing your time and...
Oct 22, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 95
Welcome back to Episode 94 of The Scratch Agency Podcast! Today, we dive into the value of mastermind groups, sharing insights on building a circle of like-minded individuals and the immense benefits of collective growth. Tune in as we explore the keys to a successful mastermind, my personal takeaways, and how you can start building your own trusted group. 🕒 (00:00) - Introduction 🕒 (01:54) - Excitement about upcoming mastermind meeting 🕒 (02:23) - Importance of creating a circle of like-mind...
Oct 08, 2024•14 min
