In episode 4, we welcome Chris Cotton, founder of AutoFix SOS to the show. Chris spends his time helping automotive repair facilities improve their processes and, in many cases saves their business. Several years ago, Chris and his wife sold their home and a good bit of their personal belongings. They bought a fifth wheel and that is how they visit their clients. We envy his ability to be flexible and change his work environment while delivering excellent value to his clients.In addition to the morning routine mentioned on the show, Chris spends 45 minutes daily on Duolingo learning to speak German, Italian and Portuguese. Talk about a true Renaissance man!
In today’s episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and co-host Kyle Houck, interview Chris Cotton, owner of AutoFix SOS. Chris travels around between states in a mobile home with his family coaching auto shop owners to help them run their business. This podcast discusses how business coaches can get struggling businesses to make a profit, and goes into the details that auto repair shops need to succeed in the current market, such as digital inspections.
Brian’s journey isn’t one of shortcuts or overnight success. It’s the story of a man who has faced battlefields, boardrooms, and hospital beds — and come out the other side with an unshakable sense of purpose. His agency is young, his vision is clear, and his “why” runs deep.
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a buzzword for tomorrow. It’s today’s most powerful tool for increasing efficiency, lowering costs, and growing your book of business faster than ever before. For insurance producers and agency owners, this isn’t a matter of curiosity or a “nice to have” anymore. It’s a necessity. The reality is that your competition may already be using AI-powered tools to identify prospects, streamline service, and close deals before you even realize you’re in the game.
In every season of The Protege, one thing becomes crystal clear—success in the commercial insurance industry isn’t about where you start, it’s about who you become.
In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, I sat down with Lloyd Brown, a middle market producer from Orlando, Florida, whose story is equal parts faith, resilience, and purpose.
Salespeople are often taught to be charismatic, friendly, and well-liked. But as David Carothers and high-ticket sales expert Austin Medlin explore in their recent conversation, that mindset could be the very thing sabotaging your close rate. Austin, the founder of CloseSales.com, brings a fresh perspective from outside the insurance industry that perfectly aligns with what commercial producers face daily: buyers who need leadership, not another friend.
That idea sits at the heart of a powerful conversation I had with Joe Hollier, better known as Mr. Hotel, on the Power Producers Podcast. Joe’s story is one that every producer can learn from. He started his career in hospitality, spent two decades working in restaurants and hotels, and eventually found his way into insurance. What he brought with him from hospitality turned out to be his biggest competitive advantage — the ability to understand people.
In the fast-paced world of commercial insurance, new trends and technologies seem to emerge daily. But some strategies stand the test of time—particularly when they’re rooted in deep client empathy, practical experience, and a commitment to legacy. In this post, we reflect on insights shared by Kevin Ring from the Institute of WorkComp Professionals during a recent Power Producers Podcast. Kevin joined David Carothers to honor the contributions of industry legend Preston Diamond and explore how his wisdom still applies in today’s sales landscape.
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