2025 Agents of the Year

“I don't try to be everything to everyone; instead, I focus on being exceptionally good for the right clients.” Matt Clark, a partner at C3 Risk & Insurance Services, focuses on high-net-worth personal lines, helping to protect complex personal assets with a highly consultative, direct approach, particularly at renewal and during claims, said Clark, who has been in the industry for nearly 20 years. He is known for building long-term client relationships and delivering thoughtful insurance solutions tailored to each client's unique needs.

“What has helped me grow the most is a strong focus on relationships and consistently following through on what I commit to.”

“The most satisfying part of my job is helping clients when something goes wrong and knowing their coverage is solid because we planned carefully,” he said. “That's when the work truly matters.” Insurance is a relationship business first and a sales business second, Clark said.

“My proudest moments aren't about a single deal; it is seeing clients stay with us year after year and refer their friends and family. That tells me I'm doing my job the right way.”

Consistency may not be the flashiest path to success, but it's what allows Chris Huebener and his team to go above and beyond. “Keeping the client experience in mind with every phone call, every email, every text is how the business is able to grow consistently, because we do each step in a consistent manner, following the processes that have been set up,” Huebener said. “Be consistent every day. Each email/text/call should have the same feel and process.”

Huebener's previous career trained him in the agility and responsiveness he needed to succeed. “I started in the insurance industry after a decade in the restaurant industry, which laid a foundation of fast-paced multitasking and ready-on-your-feet customer service!”

Within his first two years, he was named a top producer in the Brightway Network and was the number one agent for 13 years running.

Today, Huebener's team is focused on the home-buying process, making the life-changing transaction as stress-free as possible for all parties. “I have now become the principal agent of the office, and partner, where now I am helping train and grow our team of agents to build themselves and their own books,” he said.

“It is very satisfying to see my producers all winning with the same strategies that I have created over the years.”

Justin Failoni likes to see a construction project through from beginning to end. Failoni is a senior insurance broker with 18-plus years of experience. He specializes in complex construction and development risk, structuring and placing high-value, project-specific insurance programs. Known for assisting clients with navigating complex coverage, claims, and contractual risk challenges, Failoni focuses on individual needs rather than rote, one-size-fits-all approaches. He leads the design and execution of sophisticated risk solutions for developers, owners, and contractors, including OCIPs, CCIPs, and Builders' Risk programs on large-scale and high-profile projects.

Unique risks are inherent in major construction initiatives, and by serving as a senior insurance advisor throughout the full lifecycle of a project, Failoni provides direct accountability from early program design and placement through claims management and execution. His approach focuses on aligning insurance strategies with project delivery, budgets, and risk transfer objectives, with deep experience across residential, mixed-use, hospitality, and public sector developments. Construction comprises 90% of his book.

Failoni describes his approach as “relentless,” delivering top-quality service and excellent market products to his clients. His greatest satisfaction comes from helping protect clients who have spent most of their lives building their businesses from the risks they face. Consistent excellence forges the path to success, he said. “Make sure you protect your reputation as it goes with you everywhere.”

As the fourth generation of insurance professionals at Eagan Insurance Agency, now a Higginbotham Insurance partner agency, Marcus Eagan has not just a history entwined with the industry but a long-standing tradition of hard work and ambition that drives his success.

“The best advice is that you get out what you put in,” Eagan said. “The business requires a tremendous amount of work ethic, and over time this work ethic will bear fruit.”

Eagan specializes in risk management and insurance placement with emphasis on large property risks, marine, and construction clients—coverage that is especially critical in southern Louisiana.

To better serve his clients, Eagan has pursued numerous accreditations, including earning the CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) designation in 2004 and the Certified Risk Management (CRM) designation in 2008. He was selected by Insurance Business America as one of the Top Producers for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. He was also named to IBA's Hot 100 in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. He is the past president of the board of the Independent Insurance Agents of Greater New Orleans (IIAGNO). He has grown his book roughly 15% compounded over the last 10 years.

“The reason for my success is due to the unbelievable team that I have the opportunity to work with,” Eagan said. “They are first class and bring expertise as well as raise the bar every single day.”

Jimmy Whitehair considers himself less traditional broker and more risk architect—aligning operations, claims behavior, and capital strategy to create underwriting trust and sustainable leverage in the marketplace.

“The result is predictable outcomes for clients and a level of confidence from underwriters that consistently expands capacity rather than restricts it.”

Whitehair joined Commercial Insurance Associates as a principal 12 years ago, specializing in the sometimes volatile field of risk management and alternative risk financing solutions for the environmental, waste, and recycling industries.

The key to success is to master a problem, not a product, he said.

“Anyone can sell an insurance policy, but real growth comes from deeply understanding a client's business, their risk drivers, and the financial consequences of those risks," said Whitehair. "When you focus on solving meaningful problems—and follow through on execution—trust and long-term relationships naturally follow.”

The most satisfying part of his job is seeing the direct, tangible impact that strong risk management has on his clients. “When safety programs improve, claims are handled correctly, and risk is structured the right way, employees go home safely, organizations become more stable, and leadership teams gain confidence in their future,” Whitehair said.

“Knowing that our work protects livelihoods while also strengthening financial performance is incredibly rewarding—turning complex challenges into a clear blueprint for success.”

Since opening its doors in 2014, Valencia Insurance Agency has been dedicated to serving and empowering the Latin community.

“As an immigrant, I understand firsthand how intimidating insurance can feel,” said owner Claudia Valencia. “That's why I created an agency where people of all backgrounds feel welcomed, heard, and supported.”

The agency specializes in insurance solutions for the construction industry and small businesses in the Nashville area. Most agency business involves commercial general liability and related coverages, with annual premiums ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Valencia has developed a strong niche serving local contractors, builders, and small business owners, ensuring they have the right protection to support growth and manage risk effectively.

“We focus on providing quality insurance protection for individuals and families throughout our region, helping them understand the benefits of insurance and how it can provide financial security when properly utilized,” Valencia said.

The agency's motto, “Insurance for Everyone,” reflects a commitment to making insurance accessible, understandable, and supportive for people of all backgrounds.

“Sometimes I feel truly blessed to be part of an industry that allows me to make a real difference in people's lives,” Valencia said. “Beyond helping clients protect what matters most, I take pride in being involved in my community, especially in supporting diverse populations and educating people about the value of insurance.”

Pick a lane. Master it. Don't apologize for saying no to business that doesn't fit.

That mindset enabled Alec Roberts to stop being everything to everyone and start building a defensible practice. Roberts credits specialization paired with service depth as the most helpful factor in growing his book of business.

“By committing to a defined niche, I've been able to understand my clients' risks better than generalist competitors and provide solutions that extend beyond policy issuance,” he added. “This has resulted in strong retention, organic referrals, and consistent account expansion.”

At 39, Roberts already has nearly two decades of industry experience. He worked his way through every level of an agency: beginning his career as a CSR/account manager before transitioning to a full-time producer. He discovered the entertainment insurance industry early in his career and, drawn to its complexity and fast-moving nature, dove in headfirst.

After seven years with the agency that hired him out of college, Roberts purchased his book of business and founded MFE Insurance. The firm has since grown at an average rate of 25% year over year, building a reputation for deep industry expertise, proactive servicing and risk management, and tailored insurance solutions for clients in creative and non-traditional industries.

“The most satisfying part of my job is seeing clients succeed in challenging environments, knowing their risk is properly structured and protected,” he said. “The best part as an agent is not tied to a single transaction but to the businesses that continue to rely on me year after year as they grow.”

Before beginning his nearly four-decade insurance career, Hokan Almstrom was born in Sweden and came to the United States on a tennis scholarship. He knew that immersing himself in American culture would be the best way to improve his English and to pursue a career in business.

Today, after years of growing his book, Almstrom continues to emphasize the importance of relationships in insurance as a partner and risk advisor at North Risk Partners. Prioritizing connection has motivated him to always make the effort to service accounts personally as much as possible and to take advantage of opportunities to connect and check in with clients.

“Building these relationships into something more than transactional leads to trust and loyalty from my clients, who then feel comfortable and confident referring me to business owners in their networks,” he said.

Almstrom wrote his first tribal business account in 1991, and over the years, he has developed a strong tie to the market. Today, 37% of his book's revenue is generated by tribal business. He enjoys working with the leaders of tribes and appreciates the opportunity to help them flourish.

He firmly believes there is no substitute for hard work. His commitment to growing his book of business stems directly from this mentality.

Building a book of business the right way can be a long process, but long-term success can't be rushed, said Tom O'Brian.

“Growing a personal lines book of business is tough and grinding,” O'Brian said. “Taking your time and building trust always helps in the personal lines space. If you do this over time, and you do it right, your book can only grow larger.”

O'Brian, a senior sales executive and producer, is solely focused on high-net-worth personal lines. He started in the industry 20 years ago with a team and a mentor who taught him patience.

“They always stressed the importance of being accurate and factual. They also offered their 100+ years of industry experience/knowledge at my disposal,” he said. “I learned on the fly by asking questions vs. rushing along sales.”

He extends the same diligence to every client in every interaction.

“When we do client reviews, I like to ask a lot of questions to learn more about each family member,” he said.

“Not every client is the same, so learning what's important to each prospective client is huge. Building that trust and understanding of each client helps me come up with the best carrier and solution to protect their family.”

“There are so many agents out there winging it—offering savings vs. protection,” O'Brian said. “The ones that do it right will have referring business for years to come.”

Solve problems before you sell coverage.

“Insurance is inherently about managing uncertainty,” said Mike Mitchell. “When you focus on understanding the client's business objectives and risk exposures first, the right solutions naturally follow.”

Success relies on treating every interaction as an opportunity to listen, learn, and deliver beyond expectations, Mitchell said.

“Early on, I spent a lot of time learning the fundamentals, listening more than talking, and getting comfortable with the details of coverage so I could be a reliable resource, not just a salesperson.”

In 2021, his agency merged with several others to form ALKEME Insurance. The move allowed him to continue operating independently while gaining access to better markets, stronger carrier relationships, and more internal resources. That access played a significant role in his ability to grow, compete, and better serve clients.

Today, his book of business focuses on food manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and residential building construction.

“For new agents entering the business, my advice is simple: Be relentlessly curious and genuinely helpful,” Mitchell said. “Ask questions that uncover real needs, follow up with meaningful insights, and always put your client's interests first.”

“It's relationships, not transactions, that build careers in this industry."

The best advice Elizabeth Willingham has received is simple: Never stop learning. Continuously learning about her clients' business exposures and pain points helped her to master her craft and build lasting trust in the insurance industry. It also guided her to become the first partner in Mallory Agency's 119-year history.

Willingham began her career working for a captive insurer in the mid-1980s. In 1994, she moved to an independent agency and shifted from a personal lines focus to a small commercial book of business.

She joined LaGrange, Georgia-based Mallory Agency in 1997. Today, as executive vice president and a principal, Willingham serves as the senior team lead on the CEO and producer's books of business.

“Together, we form a dynamic team,” Willingham said. “He excels at building relationships and opening doors, while I bring technical expertise and strategic insight to the table. Our collaboration thrives because we recognize and leverage each other's strengths.”

She encouraged women in the insurance industry to promote and challenge themselves throughout their careers. Watching her mentees grow and knowing clients see her as a partner in their businesses are among the most rewarding aspects of her work.

“The best advice I would give to a new agent entering the business is to use a common-sense approach to everything first and then put the insurance technical knowledge to work,” Willingham said.

After 15 years at a large, national brokerage, Gregg Knepper struck out on his own.

In 2012, he founded Integrated Coverage, which has since grown its book of business with a disciplined focus, specializing in complex workers' compensation, with a distinct niche in cyber insurance.

“Rather than competing on price, we compete on expertise, responsiveness, and results,” Knepper said, adding that the agency is selective about its clients.

“I recognize that I cannot be all things to all people, so I focus on clients and businesses where I can provide the greatest impact through thoughtful risk management, coverage design, and proactive service.”

Cyber insurance expertise has helped set the agency apart.

“We believe every business should carry cyber coverage, and we work closely with our clients to identify and structure the most appropriate options based on their specific operations, data exposure, and risk profile, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.”

Insurance brokerage business is highly competitive, and success rarely happens overnight, he added.

“If you are willing to work hard, build genuine relationships, and clearly differentiate yourself rather than blending in, this can be an incredibly rewarding career,” Knepper said.

“Those who focus on consistency, integrity, and delivering real value will separate themselves over time.”

Robert Holmes understands the disappointment of a rained-out event. He grew up showing 4-H projects at Minnesota's Anoka County Fair, which started an appreciation for the role county and state fairs play in their communities.

In 2011, he launched Spectrum Weather and Specialty Insurance Inc. to educate fairs, festivals, and outdoor events on strategies to help protect themselves from the financial impact of extreme weather.

Spectrum has grown into the largest independent weather insurance broker in the U.S., specializing in event cancellation coverage with a primary focus on fairs and festivals.

Holmes has become an innovator in the field, responding to client needs with the design and implementation of non-standard weather policies, including stepped rain coverage, rain-cancellation insurance, and, most recently, the development of a heat-index insurance policy.

Holmes has also been an active supporter of the fair industry through the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) Security and Safety Committee and the Entertainment Committee and is a graduate of IAFE's Institute of Fair Management. In 2023, he received the IAFE's inaugural Associate of the Year award.

“The most satisfying part of my job has never been about policies or paperwork—it's the people,” Holmes said. “What started as professional relationships have, in many cases, grown into genuine friendships. "Knowing that people trust me not just with their insurance but as a friend is something I don't take for granted.”

Rather than trying to serve everyone, Gio Favazza has built his practice by focusing deeply on the industries he knows best—particularly hospitality. This intentional specialization has become the biggest driver of his growth.

Approximately $700,000 of Favazza's book is related to hospitality, and over the past year, he has emerged as one of POWERS Insurance's top producers, surpassing $1 million in total premium.

“While his sales numbers tell a story of high production, the true measure of his success is the depth of his relationships,” his Agent of the Year application said. “He is deeply embedded in the industries he serves.”

Favazza joined POWERS Insurance & Risk Management in 2023 after spending four years at one of Texas's largest brokerages. The opportunity to work at a second-generation, family-owned agency aligned perfectly with his values. He transitioned from personal lines to commercial lines, specializing in hospitality.

“Growing up in a restaurant family, Gio understands firsthand the challenges and risks business owners face,” his application said. “He puts himself in his clients' shoes, asks the right questions, and designs coverage that aligns with how businesses operate.”

Favazza focuses on risk identification, claims advocacy, and long-term cost-of-risk planning. In addition to his agency production, he currently serves as president of the Missouri Restaurant Association, Greater St. Louis Chapter, allowing him to advocate for the industry at both the legislative and individual levels.

Kary Arnet sees herself not just as an independent insurance agent but as a long-term partner invested in the success and well-being of the people and businesses in her community.

Arnet's professional philosophy is centered on understanding risk, anticipating change, and delivering solutions that grow with her clients—whether they're purchasing their first policy, expanding a business, or planning for the future.

“The best advice I've been given to grow as an agent is to focus on relationships, not transactions,” she said. “Insurance is a long-term business, and success comes from consistently doing the right thing for clients, educating them, and being dependable, especially when they need help the most.”

With nearly a decade of industry experience, Arnet has guided individuals, families, and business owners across both personal and commercial lines. Now at Estrella Insurance, she takes pride in educating clients, simplifying complex insurance decisions, and building long-term relationships.

“The most helpful factor in growing my book of business has been a consistent focus on building trust-based relationships and delivering dependable service,” she said. “By taking the time to truly understand each client's needs, both personal and commercial, I've been able to provide tailored insurance solutions that lead to long-term retention and referrals.”

Arnet encourages new agents to be patient, disciplined, and committed to continuous learning. Take the time to understand coverage, ask questions, and listen more than you talk, she said.

At just 16 years old, Natalie Lee could not have known that a part-time job at Paramount Exclusive Insurance Services Inc. would become the foundation of a lifelong career in insurance.

Since then, she's built meaningful relationships and connections with the people who trust her for their insurance needs. Knowing that she has made a significant impact on their businesses is incredibly fulfilling and brings her true happiness.

“While many agents can secure competitive pricing, what truly sets me apart is the meaningful impact I can make on a client's business,” she said. “My clients remember the positive changes I've helped implement and the problems I've solved when it comes to running a business, risk management, and protection.”

Lee's book of business primarily serves the construction, transportation, agriculture, and home health sectors. She has experience across all lines of commercial insurance, including workers' comp, general liability, and commercial auto.

Lee said this well-rounded approach to her business allows her to continually learn and deepen her expertise. She takes pride in offering extensive industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and exceptional service—whether it's tailoring coverage solutions, assisting with claims, or building trust that lasts beyond the policy term.

“The advice I would give to a new agent is to be a problem-solver, not a policy seller,” she said. “Any agent can offer a low price, but what truly sets you apart is understanding the challenges a business faces and providing guidance from someone who genuinely understands risk and looks out for the company's best interests.”

Escalating litigation, shrinking carrier appetite, increasingly restrictive exclusions and sustained premium pressure are just some of challenges that Josh Cavallin's clients face.

The most satisfying part of his work is helping them regain a sense of control over those challenges.

Most of Cavallin's practice at Oakbridge Insurance is centered on mid-market hospitality. He serves clients who range from single-property owners to large, multi-state hotel portfolios operating across multiple brands and management structures.

“In sectors like hospitality, many owners feel overwhelmed by an unforgiving insurance market and are resigned to continual increases and shrinking coverage,” he said. “Guiding them from uncertainty to confidence, through stabilized costs, stronger coverage, or long-overdue claims resolution, makes the work meaningful.”

Alongside that work, Cavallin maintains a strong secondary focus in manufacturing, particularly where workers' comp exposure, safety performance, and operational risk intersect.

He frequently identifies root causes of loss, evaluates safety training and loss-control practices, restructures deductibles, improves claims management, and aligns programs with carriers that value proactive risk management. His goal is not only to reduce long-term insurance costs but also improve workplace safety and restore insurer confidence.

“Clients rely on me not only to secure coverage but to help them regain control of their risk over the long term, which is why my practice continues to grow through referrals and relationships,” he said.

If you're wondering who has the coolest job in insurance, it may be Jeffrey DeMarey.

DeMarey focuses on coverage for specialty collectors and classic automobiles, including high-net-worth collectors, automotive museums, and restoration shops.

He's deeply entrenched in the classic car culture, serving as a Master Judge with the Classic Car Club of America and in national and regional leadership roles within the collector-car community. He's also the founder of the Springfield to Boston Education Foundation, a nonprofit focused on youth automotive education.

Specialization has been the biggest driver of growth, said DeMarey.

“By focusing on collector vehicles and the businesses around them—museums and restoration shops—I've been able to deliver expertise that generalists can't.”

Adding to his cool cache, he launched Stonewall Insurance Group in 2007 as a technology-forward, fully virtual agency.

He started his career nearly 40 years ago, helping modernize and eventually purchase his father's small agency. He later acquired a John Hancock office and became one of the youngest members of the John Hancock and Fireman's Fund agent councils.

“Early on, I also adopted document imaging to build a paperless office. Over time, I built a national specialty book serving clients in all 50 states,” he said.

Justin Keats grew up in the insurance business as the son of a former State Farm turned Nationwide Hall of Fame–level agent. That experience gives him special insights into all sides of the business, its potential, and its challenges.

As a producer at the family agency, Keats Insurance, Keats said his growth is driven by a process-oriented mindset.

“I'm constantly refining workflows; improving efficiency; and looking for small, repeatable ways to level up and stack wins over time,” he said. “I operate with the belief that clients are best served under my care, which creates long-term relationships rather than one-time transactions.”

This approach echoes advice he got from his insurance-minded father: Always continue to seek education.

“Not every meeting, loss, or opportunity will go perfectly, but if you can take even one lesson from each experience, you continue to grow.”

The agency focuses on residential real estate, specializing in home closing insurance.

Keats' role includes ensuring that insurance is handled early, accurately, and without friction so closings stay on track. And there is always something more to learn.

“Stay curious, learn from every interaction, and focus on improving a little each day,” Keats advised. “Over time, those small lessons compound into better judgment, stronger relationships, and long-term success.”

Zach Marcus' great-grandfather founded a Connecticut insurance agency in 1941 without AI-optimized workflows or a robust online footprint.

Four generations later, Marcus is carrying his family's legacy forward by leaning into what has worked for 85 years—and tapping into modern tools that enable him to deepen his relationship-first approach.

“Growing my book of business has come down to one core thing: relationships,” he said. “In a world where automation and AI are everywhere, people want to deal with a real person who knows them, answers the phone, and takes the time to explain things clearly.”

Marcus began his career by modernizing the agency's digital presence, then became licensed and involved in growing the business. Two years ago, he led the agency through a successful acquisition by King Risk Partners.

Today, he serves as the agency's regional personal lines leader for New England.

As customer service declines across many industries, Marcus said that accessibility, responsiveness, and being genuinely helpful have made a meaningful difference. That philosophy has led to strong retention, steady referrals, and organic growth over time.

He believes that balancing high tech and high touch is key to sustainable growth.

“I use technology and AI to become more efficient behind the scenes, not to replace the personal connection with clients,” Marcus said. “When administrative work is streamlined, it frees up time to proactively review coverage, anticipate needs, and be more present for clients when it matters most.”

A few lines of advice have stuck with Chikara Sakoda throughout his nearly four-decade-long international insurance career.

Embrace challenges and take risks; growth comes from setbacks. Keep learning and making efforts to grow daily. Be patient; actual results take time. Be a good communicator. Never give up; your dream will come true.

Thirty-seven years after starting at the Fiji Fire and Marine Insurance Company, Sakoda continues to grow through his work. In his current position as managing director and head of Japan practice for Ori-gen, he established the organization's new sales record in 2025.

He previously served as the executive vice president and head of insurance at Redac Advantage Insurance Services LLC and head of commercial operations at Coface Japan. Sakoda also worked as executive client director and national business development leader of Asian Corporate Solutions-AIG, which oversees AIG's Asian businesses in the U.S.

Before joining AIG, Sakoda was the client executive and sales leader of Marsh Asia Client Services, which oversees Marsh's Asian businesses on the West Coast. He is also a self-employed consultant with Sakoda Business Solutions.

He feels most proud when clients show their appreciation and happiness—and when he feels he is growing.

What does he plan to do in 2026? Expand pipelines, enhance relationships with prospects, hold insurance seminars and attend social events and seminars to expand his network.

Insurance isn't a one‑time transaction, said Doreen Janssen.

“You get to know your clients, their families, their goals, and their worries,” Janssen said.

Janssen takes an integrated approach to every client, defining her career by a strong commitment to helping clients protect what matters most in their lives.

“Watching those relationships grow over years is incredibly rewarding.”

“My expertise extends far beyond sales,” she said. “I excel in marketing, client education, and service work—ensuring that every customer receives clear guidance, responsive support, and a personalized experience.”

Her ability to multitask and harmoniously integrate every element of service for her clients has fostered a consistent generation of new business across a wide range of insurance products.

Her agency awards a trip to a top producer each year, and Janssen has won the trip 10 years in a row. “I am very proud of that.”

Part of her success is a willingness to write “whatever comes (her) way.”

“It is hard for me to say no to people looking for quotes,” she said.

“Think about the last time you reached out to a company and didn't hear back,” Janssen said. “It probably felt frustrating or dismissive. Our customers feel the same way. When we respond quickly, we show them they matter—and that's what keeps them coming back.”

“The heart of my job isn't paperwork or policies—it's the impact I make on people's lives.”

At 24, Jeremy Wittenbaum has already built a book of business of more than $250,000 in commission and been recognized as a star producer by Chubb for the Midwest region. He graduated summa cum laude—in three years—from Ohio State University with a degree in insurance and has earned multiple industry designations.

Being comfortable with being uncomfortable has guided his career's trajectory.

“Put yourself out there,” he said when speaking of advice he received from his mentor at Berkley One. “Be the best version of yourself—even if it is an area you're afraid of growing in. You're only as strong as your weakest trait, and the worst someone can say is no.”

A high-net-worth insurance specialist, Wittenbaum's personal lines book at S P Agency is filled with large and custom homes, high-value automobiles, boats, collectibles, and more. He has a proven record of solving complex insurance problems and building long-term relationships.

“The most satisfying part of my job is helping others,” Wittenbaum said, adding that he loves moving a prospect from a direct writer or a poorly written program to an HNW insurance program that fixes gaps, broadens coverage, and sometimes saves premium dollars.

He's a third-generation advisor at S P Agency. He said he is lucky to work alongside his father, uncle, grandparents, and cousin—all of whom have instilled in him that “above all, we put our clients first and help them no matter what.”

The advice Wittenbaum would give to a new agent entering the business: Don't be afraid to fail.

“I find myself laughing often when I admit my nerdy passion for this industry,” said William “Will” Cheek Jr., founder of WBC Risk Partners.

More and more, it's a passion that's needed.

“With rising litigation, higher average claims cost and increasing coverage restrictions, agents have a duty to perform at a high level and deliver the whole picture to their insureds and not just compete on the game of finding low premiums,” Cheek said.

“At first glance, this sounds like common sense. But once you've seen the concessions some people in this business are willing to make with a client's livelihood, you realize just how low the bar can be.”

Cheek, who started working for a local insurance agency while still in high school, still follows the advice he got early in his career: “Never lower your standards to compete solely on premium with another agency. Your job isn't to be cheaper—it's to be clearer. That clarity is why the customer came to you in the first place.”

Price can always be adjusted, while coverage, trust, and expectations cannot—at least not without consequences, he said.

“Cutting limits, stripping endorsements, or oversimplifying risk might win a quote, but it often costs the client when it matters most,” Cheek said. “When a client realizes that the hard conversations we had upfront spared them stress, financial loss, or regret, that's when the job feels worth it.”

In 2023, Steve Mayfield faced a devastating professional loss: His lifelong friend and boss passed away, and he subsequently lost his book in the sale of his prior agency.

Despite this, Mayfield's relationships spoke for themselves; he successfully retained approximately 90% of his book when transitioning to InsureCAL.

“Steve Mayfield should be considered a top agent because of his exceptional character, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his clients,” wrote his employee Dylan Newsome in his nomination.

Mayfield has spent the past 28 years as a dedicated independent insurance agent, building a career rooted in integrity, service, and long-term relationships. He works with individuals, families, and businesses to help them protect what matters most. Trust, transparency, and responsiveness have driven referrals and client retention throughout his career.

“His career has been defined by consistency, reliability, and a genuine commitment to his clients. Even through industry changes and personal challenges, Steve has remained a steady and trusted advisor, always putting his clients' needs first,” Newsome said.

Mayfield is known for always picking up the phone, being available when clients need him most, and following through on his promises.

Retaining 90% of his book during his transition to a new agency is a testament to the trust his clients have in him, Newsome said.

“His success is not just measured in production but in people helped and relationships preserved.”

Mickey Matran got his start on the greens.

The former professional golf instructor was recruited to the insurance industry while teaching at a club in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Many of the club's members were insurance professionals, and one of them pitched the insurance industry to him during a lunch conversation.

“He spoke candidly about the rewards of the profession, both the opportunity to help people protect what matters most and the ability to build a strong income through hard work and genuine service,” Matran said.

The conversation sparked Matran to take the lessons he had learned over 20 years on the golf course and launch a successful insurance career in 2012.

“I approached the business the same way I had every role before, by pouring my heart into the work and outworking expectations.”

He joined Hyland Insurance as a partner in 2017 to help launch its employee benefits practice.

“Much of what I learned came from observing how they treated people and the genuine passion they had for helping others,” Matran said. “Every successful person I know has had someone who helped guide them along the way, and it is my goal to do the same for others.”

“Looking ahead, our future growth will be driven by continued investment in our people,” he said.

“The technical side of insurance can be learned, but building alignment around a shared mission is more challenging.”