Welcome to the

Power Producers
Podcast

This is The Power Producers Podcast where we are refining and redefining the sales game.  A place where sales professionals can come to learn from other sales professionals and thought leaders who have mastered their craft. As well as their peers who are still striving for perfection to achieve their “why”.  Real sales professionals. Real stories. Real results. Are you ready to feel the power?

Power Producers Podcast

Don’t be Broke and Busted with Michael Charles, Episode #312

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck interview Michael Charles, of RSC Credit Freedom Solution. Michael discusses the critical importance of credit in both personal and business contexts and its impact on the insurance industry and overall financial health.

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Moneyball with Billy Van Jura, Episode #310

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck interview Billy Van Jura, Owner of Birchyard. They discuss the need for creativity in the insurance industry, redefining the middle market, and the impact of technology on business expansion and client services.

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Chatting Risk with Abby O’Brien 2 | Shoptalk Series, Episode #135

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers is joined by Abby O’Brien, the Risk Management Practice Leader at Florida Risk Partners. They provide a unique perspective on the dynamic interplay between education and hands-on experience in shaping a successful insurance and risk management career.

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Chatting Risk with Abby O’Brien 1 | Shoptalk Series, Episode #134

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers is joined by Abby O’Brien, the Risk Management Practice Leader at Florida Risk Partners. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the field, highlighting how effective use of technology and innovative approaches can lead to significant advancements in managing risks in the insurance industry.

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The Agency Marketing Playbook with Nick Berry, Episode #308

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Nick Berry from Tech Marketer. Nick discusses his insights into evolving marketing strategies, the importance of an online presence in the insurance industry, and offers actionable advice for agencies looking to make a significant impact in the new year.

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What a Difference a Year Makes | Shoptalk Series, Episode #133

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers discusses exciting details about the upcoming content conference, InsureCon Tampa, scheduled for January 16-18, 2025.

David dives into the unique approach of the conference, emphasizing its focus on fresh perspectives and high-level entrepreneurship insights applied to the insurance industry. He highlights the importance of inclusion, the strategic themes of the conference, and the exceptional experience attendees can expect.

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75 Years Strong with Ryan Reynolds, Episode #305

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck interview Ryan Reynolds, Principal and President of Grimes Insurance. They dive into a candid discussion about the challenges and triumphs of acquiring and modernizing an established insurance agency.

Ryan shares his journey from State Farm to owning a 75-year-old agency, detailing his strategic approach to growth and industry adaptation.

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Win Every Day with Cyrus Jaffery, Episode #304

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Cyrus Jaffery, Founder and CEO of Quotamation. Cyrus discusses his remarkable journey from Afghanistan to becoming a successful insurance agency owner in Nebraska. David and Cyrus delve into the nuances of sales, overcoming adversity, and the impact of technological advancements in the insurance industry.

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Go the Extra 2 Minutes | Shoptalk Series, Episode #132

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers discusses what separates good from great in sales.

David shares his insights and personal experiences on creating memorable customer interactions and leaving a lasting impression. From extraordinary customer service stories to unique marketing strategies, this episode is packed with invaluable advice for anyone in sales.

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Bonds in a Zip with Zach Mefferd, Episode #303

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Zach Mefferd, CEO and Co-founder of Zip Bonds about the latest trends and innovations in the bond market. Learn how these developments are shaping the insurance industry and how agents can adapt to stay ahead and how Zip Bonds is innovating and leading change in this space.

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Slaying the McInsurance Game with Patrick McBride, Episode #302

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Patrick McBride, Agency Owner at The McBride Agency. Patrick discusses how he leverages his diverse experiences, from post-military life to mastering tech in insurance to create impactful client relationships and streamline processes in his agency.

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What is Your Identity | Shoptalk Series, Episode #131

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers invites listeners to ponder a profound question: “What is your identity?”. David discusses the importance of defining one’s identity beyond work and shares personal insights on balancing professional success with family and personal well-being.

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Slowing Down to Speed Up with Michael Weaver, Episode #301

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Michael Weaver and Courtney Weaver of Weaver Sales Academy. Michael and Courtney discuss their journey from launching an insurance agency to creating a training platform that revolutionizes sales tactics in the industry and the importance of transformational relationships over transactional selling.

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A Well Kept Secret with Van Carlson, Episode #300

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck interview Van Carlson, Founder of SRA. Van discusses his approach to risk mitigation through tax deferral strategies and his unique perspective on creating efficient business plans and navigating the challenges entrepreneurs and business owners face in today’s financial landscape.

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The Power Producers Podcast where we are refining and redefining the sales game.

Kyle Houck

Insurance

How AI and Automation Are Reshaping Independent Insurance Agencies

In an industry where tradition often outweighs innovation, artificial intelligence and automation are slowly but steadily reshaping how independent insurance agencies operate. The push toward smarter, more efficient workflows is no longer a matter of if—but when. While many agencies are still evaluating how AI fits into their operations, early adopters are already reaping the benefits of streamlined submissions, faster processing, and actionable data insights.

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Producers

Coaching, Competition, and Consolidation: Inside the Protege Mindset That’s Reshaping the Future of Insurance Producers

The commercial insurance industry is changing faster than ever—and not always for the better. Consolidation is accelerating. Service levels are declining. Private equity is pushing agencies to scale in ways that strip out the personal touch that once defined the independent channel. But for the producers willing to do the work, lean into mentorship, and sharpen their craft, this isn’t a challenge—it’s an opportunity.

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Insurance

From Submission Bottlenecks to Scalable Growth: How AI is Empowering Independent Insurance Agencies

The commercial insurance industry is in the midst of a major evolution. The traditional workflows that once drove agency productivity are now dragging down growth, overloading staff, and frustrating owners who are trying to scale efficiently. For independent insurance agencies—especially those in the middle market—adapting to these challenges without increasing overhead is a tightrope walk.

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Market

The Power of Patient Prospecting: How Education, Niching, and Mindset Drive Middle-Market Success

Few industries reward consistency, discipline, and patience quite like middle-market commercial insurance. Initially, every producer starts with a different story, background, and path into the business. However, the ones who rise are the ones who learn to embrace the long game. Moreover, while success may take time, those who persevere ultimately reap the benefits. Furthermore, this industry values resilience, and those who remain committed often find themselves achieving great success in the end.

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Work

Reclaiming Purpose in a Distracted World: Empowerment, Emotional Intelligence, and the Future of Work-Life Balance

In today’s performance-obsessed culture, achieving elite status in your profession can often come with a hidden price. Tania Khazaal, known to many as Tanya the Herbalist, knows this truth firsthand. After climbing the ranks in the insurance industry and landing in the top 1% of sales professionals, she found herself at a crossroads. Despite the accolades, international travel perks, and consistent recognition, she was suffering from a quiet crisis: burnout.

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