InsHER

Learning by Association: The Value of Insurance Networks with Taylor Jones

In this episode, I sit down with Taylor Jones, Partner and Vice President of Business Development at Questpro Consultants. Taylor shares her remarkable journey from being a first-grade teacher to finding her passion in the insurance industry, all thanks to a friend's enthusiasm about their job at Lockton Dallas.
Taylor emphasizes how her participation in associations like RISE, IICF, and YRP has significantly contributed to her professional development. She discusses the invaluable skills she has acquired, including time management, confidence, networking, and sales techniques, through volunteering and collaboration with industry peers.

Making Meaningful Connections: Emily Merola and the #AGWN Initiative

In this episode, hear the story of Emily Merola, Senior Vice President of Property & Casualty at Assurex Global. Emily's journey is a testament to the power of human connection in shaping a successful insurance career. From internships, to major carriers, to her current pivotal role as a connector at Assurex Global, Emily is focused on fostering genuine connections among diverse cultures and leaders.
Connection is also what inspired Emily to create the Assurex Global Women's Network (#AGWN) in 2023, a platform aimed at empowering women and men across partner firms through learning and networking opportunities.
Through heartfelt shoutouts to her female team and emphasizing the importance of knowing one's why, Emily encourages listeners to embrace authenticity, seek wise counsel, and boldly pursue their aspirations. Join us as we delve into Emily's inspiring journey and the transformative power of meaningful connections.

Inspiring Change: Uniting Industry and Values with Meghan Leary

In this episode of InsHER, I sit down with Meghan Leary, Head of Business Development at One80 Intermediaries. Meghan discusses her involvement with the non-profit organization, the Pink Agenda, dedicated to supporting awareness for premenopausal breast cancer. It's a cause deeply personal to her, as Meghan’s close friend tragically lost her battle with the disease. Meghan's dedication to honoring her friend's memory fuels her commitment to uniting the industry in a collective effort for good.
She advocates for organizations to embrace corporate social responsibility by supporting non-profits, emphasizing how such initiatives foster unity and collaboration toward a common cause. Meghan stresses the importance of community involvement for organizations, where we can recognize each other on an equal human level, particularly as younger talent increasingly values connection and purpose beyond profit.

Embracing AI and Data in the Risk Industry with Silvia Diaz-Roa

In this episode, I dive into the dynamic world of risk management and insurance with the insightful Silvia Diaz-Roa. Silvia, who initially embarked on a career in law, found herself captivated by the intricate realm of claims management and mitigation. Her journey led her to advocate for greater access to the wealth of data entrenched within the insurance industry.
Silvia's perspective is refreshingly forward-thinking, as she champions the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance our processes and elevate business intelligence within the realm of risk management. However, amidst the technological advancements, Silvia emphasizes the enduring value of human relationships and empathy.

Leaving the Ladder Down: Empowering Women Through Connection and Advocacy with Leanne Berry

In this episode of InsHER, I delve into the inspiring journey and insights of Leanne Berry, VP of Distribution at Vantage Risk, and a dynamic professional in the insurance industry who advocates for empowerment, connection, and continuous growth.
An advocate for women in insurance initiatives, Leanne finds fulfillment in mentorship and hands-on leadership roles in these groups. She is passionate about creating safe spaces for women to learn, grow, and succeed. Leanne urges women to support and uplift each other as they climb the career ladder, fostering a culture of empowerment and collaboration.

Redefining Risk: Giving Insurance Careers a Better Reputation with Tandeka Nomvete

Join me and the vibrant Tandeka Nomvete as we discuss her journey to redefine risk and reshape the perception of insurance careers. Tandeka shares her inspiring path to the world of risk management, leading her to the Spencer Educational Foundation – a non-profit dedicated to funding tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.
Tandeka notes the scarcity of risk management programs in colleges and universities and the challenges in attracting students to the insurance industry. Together, we delve into the misconceptions that have plagued the industry's reputation and tarnished its appeal.
In her role at Spencer, Tandeka collaborates with universities to unveil the possibilities within the insurance industry. Through strategic partnerships and direct engagement with students, they are revolutionizing the perception of insurance careers, dispelling myths, and illuminating the vibrant paths awaiting future professionals.

Guiding the Next Generation: Exemplifying Female Leadership in the Insurance Industry with Amy Cooper

In this episode, we'll explore Amy's journey from identifying a gap in the industry to taking bold action. Faced with the absence of an association catering to young talent like herself, Amy decided to create her own solution. Thus, Rising Insurance Star Executives (RISE) was born in 2017. Under Amy's leadership alongside an all-female team, RISE has blossomed into a vibrant community with hundreds of members.
Throughout our conversation, Amy shares valuable insights into the importance of mentorship, relationship-building, and career growth. She underscores the significance of visible female leadership and discusses ongoing efforts to promote equity, especially concerning caregiving policies.
Amy expresses gratitude for the inspiring women CEOs who are already leading the charge for gender equality in insurance.

Empowering Innovation: Putting Customers First with Ryann Foelker and Gwen Olson

In this episode, I had the pleasure of spending time with Ryann Foelker and Gwen Olson from American Family Insurance, who are reshaping the landscape of insurance product design by placing the customer at the heart of everything they do. Their unwavering commitment to customer-centricity and empathy underscores their dedication to addressing the evolving needs of their clientele.
Join me as we explore how Foelker and Olson's visionary leadership champions the power of compassion in problem-solving, demonstrating the invaluable contributions of women leading transformative initiatives. 

Welcome to InsHER

For this first episode, and before I welcome any guests, I want to tell you a bit more about me and why I decided to start this podcast.