In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Aurora Mullett, Managing Partner at Sky Insurance Brokers. Teresa and Aurora talk about how insurance agents can learn about their state's fair plan, how they can help be an advocate for change and assist their communities. Key Topics: The growing role of FAIR Plans in wildfire-prone areas Why many agents struggle to properly write FAIR Plan policies How State Farm’s exit from California reshaped the market The need for stronger agent education and policy training Legislative efforts to improve FAIR Plans and insurance accessibility The nationwide ripple effect of insurance carrier withdrawals Steps agents can take to influence policy and advocate for change Connect with: Aurora Mullett Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sky Insurance Brokers Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Joan Curtis, Co-Owner of MVP Insurance. Teresa and Joan discuss the book Who Not How by Dan Sullivan. This is part of a 3 part series. They will be doing the Gap and the Gain next. Key Topics: How the book “Who Not How” reshaped their approach to delegation and leadership The power of finding the right "who" instead of getting stuck in the "how" Why business owners should focus on their "zone of genius” The four freedoms: time, money, relationships, and purpose How Joan built a thriving agency by partnering with the right people The role of collaboration in business growth and avoiding burnout Practical tips for effective delegation and maximizing impact Connect with: Joan Curtis Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Book: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan MVP Insurance Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Ciara Gravier, Founder of The Bunker Insurance & Risk Management. Teresa and Ciara discuss the book “10X Is Easier than 2X” about leveling up as professionals. Key Topics: Reflecting on the value of decompressing and connecting with like-minded peers. How “10X Is Easier Than 2X” challenges traditional growth mindsets. Identifying and focusing on the tasks that truly move the needle. Delegating effectively to free up time for high-impact activities. The importance of building a team that supports exponential growth. Surrounding yourself with people who embrace a 10X mindset. Aligning daily actions with long-term, transformative goals. Connect with: Ciara Gravier Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: The Bunker Insurance & Risk Management Sterling Insurance Group 10X Is Easier Than 2X Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Cheree Sauer. Cheree is a business coach specializing in high-performance women and burnout and creating balance. Key Topics: Cheree Sauer shares about her Success Without Sacrifice Coaching program. The RAMP Method creates seasons of rest for business owners. Recognizing and addressing burnout through self-awareness. Customizing self-care to individual needs for lasting growth. Authentic leadership and empowering teams as women. The importance of working in your zone of genius. Connect with: Cheree Sauer Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Success Without Sacrifice Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Carie Ann Roach of Independent Insurance Agents of Texas (IIAT). Carie and Teresa discuss how to find the resources to level up an insurance career. Key Topics: Carie Ann shares her journey from receptionist to industry leader. The value of certifications in career advancement. Building confidence and seeking mentorship in insurance. Turning CE requirements into meaningful growth opportunities. Fostering leadership and self-awareness in teams. Enhancing team dynamics with tools like CliftonStrengths. Adding value and building trust in professional relationships. Connect with: Carie Ann Roach Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Independent Insurance Agents of Texas (IIAT) Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Meg McKeen, Founder of Adjunct Advisors. Meg and Teresa talk about being vulnerable and how we need to step over our fears to achieve our goals. Key Topics: Meg discusses the shift toward flexible, virtual work. Teresa and Meg explore meaningful connections in remote settings. Leadership’s role in fostering trust and communication. Embracing vulnerability for growth in work and life. Generational changes reshaping workplace culture. Balancing personal priorities with career growth. Modeling work-life balance to strengthen teams. Connect with: Meg McKeen Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Adjunct Advisors Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Lorin Montgomery, Vice President of Brown & Brown Insurance. Lorin and Teresa talk about how to build relationships, educate and build a business in this crazy market Key Topics: Lorin’s transition from Liberty Mutual to Brown & Brown Insurance. Challenges of rising costs and stricter policies in today’s hard market. Importance of client education to address market changes and build trust. Proactive strategies like year-round communication and consultative advising. Networking tips for building credibility and finding niche markets. Benefits of focusing on larger clients for efficiency and relationship depth. Managing client emotions and expectations during difficult renewals. Connect with: Lorin Montgomery Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Brown & Brown Insurance Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Doris and Teresa talk about her life, her career at Vertafore, and how personal challenges have helped her to pass along her experiences to others. Key Topics: Doris shares her career journey from QQ Solutions to Vertafore Doris discusses the challenges and growth during Vertafore's acquisition of QQ Doris talks about completing her MBA while undergoing a health issue Doris highlights Vertafore’s tech solutions that simplify work for insurance agents Doris introduces her book, Overcoming Challenges Against All Odds Doris stresses the importance of networking and a positive mindset for growth Doris reflects on the support from her family, colleagues, and community Connect with: Doris Gonzalez Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Vertafore Book: Overcoming Challenges Against All Odds Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens chats about how she set goals and measures them. Key Topics: Choosing a guiding theme like “discipline” to focus business and personal goals Structuring goals within four core pillars—team, money, operations, and marketing Defining measurable goals that move beyond vague aspirations Engaging your team in goal-setting to create shared ownership Using accountability partners to track progress and celebrate wins Leveraging automation and personalized touches to enhance client relationships Setting “stretch goals” to challenge yourself without overwhelm Connect with: Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens discusses how to get your mind focused for goal planning Key Topics: Teresa discusses mental challenges in goal planning, like fears and self-doubt She suggests journaling techniques to confront these fears A pros-and-cons method is recommended to analyze fears and their impact Teresa emphasizes creating a yearly focus theme, like her 2025 theme, "Discipline." Teresa discusses the role of discipline in staying consistent and accountable Teresa shares her journey toward healthier habits and overcoming procrastination Connect with: Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, I discuss where I have been and that I know it is time for a reboot and that I am excited to get back at it!! Key Topics: Teresa discusses taking time away from the podcast to focus on overcoming challenges in her agency How work style assessments helped Teresa build a more cohesive and effective team The impact of business coaching and financial planning on the agency's restructuring process Navigating the acquisition of a commercial lines book and handling complex data integration Managing a virtual insurance team spread across different locations Cultivating a strong team culture built on communication, accountability, and shared goals Teresa previews upcoming episodes with exciting new guests and industry insights Connect with: Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sterling Insurance Group Produced by PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Tinsley English, Senior Vice President at Marsh McLennan Agency, and Author of Grit, Growth, and Gumption for Women. Tinsley and Teresa talk about strategies for building tenacity and how to push forward with amazing leadership initiatives. Key Topics: Transition from an international business major to an insurance professional Importance of job satisfaction and creating your own career path The significance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership The role of women in the insurance industry and breaking into leadership roles Writing Grit, Growth, and Gumption for Women as a guide for emerging leaders Balancing career demands with self-care and personal growth Connect with: Tinsley English Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Grit, Growth, and Gumption for Women: Three Keys to Lead Yourself and others with Confidence Marsh McLennan Agency Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Kaleigha Moore Fitch, Agency Owner of 212 Insurance Group. Kaleigha and Teresa about how she has built her agency through authenticity with her community, involvement and by being transparent about her challenges. Key Topics: The importance of authenticity in professional and personal interactions Navigating life and business with empathy and understanding The significance of support systems in dealing with personal challenges Personal stories of overcoming adversity through resilience and support Insights into the dynamics of communication and relationship-building in business The role of personal experiences in shaping professional practices Connect with: Kaleigha Moore Fitch Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: 212 Insurance Group Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Stacie Cooper of Liberty Mutual Insurance | Safeco Insurance. Stacie and Teresa talk about how agencies can level up their marketing and how Safeco is partnering with agencies to make it easier. Key Topics: Evolution of Safeco's 'Bricks and Clicks' program and its impact on digital marketing. Integration of SEO and social media to improve agency visibility and client acquisition. Overview of the 'Agent for the Future' initiative and its resources for adapting to consumer behaviors. Importance of a strong digital presence, including effective websites and Google My Business profiles. Strategies for client engagement and retention through personalized digital content and referral programs. Use of video content in marketing, including the effectiveness of video proposals. The need for continuous learning and adaptation to remain competitive in a digital market. Connect with: Stacie Cooper Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Agent For The Future Liberty Mutual Insurance Safeco Insurance Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Dustyne Bryant, Director of Risk & Insurance Education and Research at Risk & Insurance Education Alliance. Dustyne and Teresa explore the changes that are going on at the National Alliance and how they have re-branded to be Risk & Insurance Education Alliance and how they are serving our industry with tons of options to help agents succeed. Key Topics: Transition from the National Alliance for Insurance Education to the Risk and Insurance Education Alliance. Expansion of educational formats to include podcasts and online subscriptions. Impact of COVID-19 on transitioning to virtual learning and webinars. The introduction of AI tools like Alibot to supplement insurance education. Comprehensive educational offerings from basic courses to advanced certifications. Importance of adapting to changes within the insurance industry and leveraging technology. Engaging the next generation through educational outreach from high school onwards. Connect with: Dustyne Bryant, CIC, CISR Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Risk & Insurance Education Alliance Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens interviews Elisha Cavanaugh, President of Sound Pacific Insurance. Elisha and Teresa talks about the award she won with Safeco, her being on the front cover of Rough Notes and how she is balancing family and career. Key Topics: Elisha's unexpected award and the opportunity to feature on the cover of Rough Notes The challenges of self-promotion and the importance of community support in personal and professional growth Strategies for maintaining authenticity while navigating business pressures and family life The role of direct communication and relationship-building with insurance carriers Leadership lessons on fostering team accountability and the parallels between leading a team and parenting Practical tips for agency owners on engaging with carrier representatives and empowering their teams Connect with: Elisha Cavanaugh Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sound Pacific Insurance Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Dawn Janes-Bartley, CEO of Maverick Risk Partners. Dawn and Teresa talk about acquisitions including the mistakes they have made and the ways they really excelled. Key Topics: Dawn's unexpected journey from child psychology into the insurance industry The evolution of roles within the agency post-acquisition Challenges of integrating new teams and processes after acquiring another agency The importance of adapting roles and expectations as an agency grows Strategies for managing team dynamics and operational changes during transitions Dawn's insights on personal resilience and strategic thinking while navigating business expansions Connect with: Dawn Janes-Bartley Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Maverick Risk Partners Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens interviews Andrea Vargas, CEO of TTC Leads. Andrea and Teresa talk about how partnering in life and business with Ryan Saridakis and then continuing to build that business after his passing has created the business of her dreams. Key Topics: Andrea's unconventional entry into the insurance industry through family connections and early influences The role of mentorship and the pivotal influence of Patrick Bet-David in her career orientation Development of a non-traditional career path, avoiding college and direct recruitment into the industry Transition from being heavily recruitment-focused to prioritizing substantive, service-oriented business in insurance Insights into personal growth, the impact of significant relationships on professional paths, and navigating business after the loss of a partner Strategies for fostering a positive and productive workplace culture The balance of personal well-being with professional responsibilities in leadership roles Connect with: Andrea Vargas Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: TTC Leads Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens explores the stages and opportunities for virtual options inside an agency. Key Topics: Exploring the concept and challenges of virtual agencies Variability in virtual setups from partial to fully remote Essential tools for virtual work include VOIP and VPNs Gradual adaptation starting with flexible work policies Importance of maintaining culture and security in virtual setups Virtual teams enhance productivity and geographic diversity Regular virtual meetings maintain team cohesion and efficiency Connect with: Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm

In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens discusses how to lead in this market and how to make a difference in the future of this industry. Key Topics: Importance of leadership in today's challenging insurance market Broadening the definition of leadership beyond official titles The role of awareness and proactive steps in effective leadership Mental health and operational efficiency in leadership roles How to innovate and inspire within a team setting Encouragement of personal and professional growth through leadership Ways to implement leadership strategies practically and effectively Connect with: Teresa Kitchens Visit Websites: Sterling Insurance Group Produced by: PodSquad.fm