Podcast
The Insurance Dudes©
The Insurance Dudes is a weekly podcast for independent and captive P&C insurance agency owners, hosted by Craig Pretzinger and Jason Feltman, covering lead generation, sales scripts, DISC-based hiring, producer training, recruiting, automation, and the KPI tracking that scales an agency past $10 million in premium.
Craig and Jason ran their own agencies blind for years. No read on contact rates, quote rates, or close rates. Just grinding, and blaming the leads when production stalled. Then they started tracking the numbers that actually move revenue, and production jumped without adding a single hour to the week.
That shift became this show: 800+ episodes on what actually runs an agency. Real-time vs aged lead economics, how many dials a day a producer should be making, scripts for the rate-increase objection, how to leave a captive carrier and go independent, how to run an agency on a 4-day week, and how to value and sell an agency when you're ready to exit. No theory, no motivational filler. Just the math and the systems that took two agencies to over $10 million in new annualized auto premium.
If you're wearing every hat in your agency and ready to stop, this show is built for you.
Website: theidudes.com Built from the show: TeleDudes for outsourced overseas dialers, TeamIQ for DISC-based hiring, LineShield for phone reputation, and Insurance Agency Trader for buying or selling an agency.
New episodes every week. Subscribe, and let's sell some policies.
- Careers chart
- #90
- Episodes
- 819
- Releases
- Weekly
- Typical length
- 31 min
- On air since
- 2019
- Latest episode
- 6 days ago
Episodes
819 episodes, newest first
-
27 min
It’s Not the Leads. It’s You.
Show notes
Fix your agency lead conversion by replacing random marketing tactics with a repeatable outbound system.
We break down why chasing new lead sources fails without a consistent conversion process. This episode covers lead generation, outbound dialing workflows, and the metrics P&C agency owners need to track cost per acquisition accurately. Learn how to structure producer daily activity so inbound and outbound leads actually close.
For agencies looking to scale outbound dialing and automate appointment setting, check out TeleDudes and the Telefunnel system.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
0:00 The silver bullet trap in P&C marketing
2:15 Why lead generation fails without outbound discipline
5:40 Setting daily contact and dial targets for producers
9:10 Measuring real acquisition cost across lead channels
13:30 Building a repeatable pipeline engineSteal the AI Tools Running Our Agencies...FREE!
We built 'em to kill the busywork in our own agencies, so your team spends the day selling. Free.
Lead Source Autopsy
• https://app.theidudes.com/autopsy-skill-mag
Call Grader
• https://app.theidudes.com/call-analysis-mag
Premium-to-Dials Calculator
• https://app.theidudes.com/calculator-mag
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
46 min
Giving Up Before Dial 21? You’re Leaving Sales on the Table | Nima Hakimi of Convoso
Show notes
Improve your insurance lead contact rates by understanding contact rate math and speed-to-lead benchmarks.
We sit down with Nima Hakimi, CEO and Co-Founder of Convoso, to break down the reality of outbound dialing and why reaching leads on the 21st attempt burns budget and agent morale. This episode covers outbound dialing workflows, smart cadence strategies, and how modern lead generation requires rapid, automated follow-up to convert web leads before they go cold.
If your producers struggle with contact rates or connecting with real prospects, check out TeleDudes / Telefunnel to streamline your outbound operations.
Connect with Nima Hakimi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nimahakimi/?isSelfProfile=false
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
0:00 Introduction and the contact rate dilemma
3:15 The math behind speed-to-lead and initial dial attempts
12:40 Why dialing 20+ times fails without a structured cadence
21:10 Outbound workflow strategies for insurance producers
32:45 Compliance, smart dialing tech, and maximizing connect rates
42:10 Final takeaways on lead conversion systemsThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
1 hr 3 min
Surviving a 60% Rate Hike as a Brand-New Agent with Kathy Hitchcock
Show notes
How to protect your P&C agency cash flow and survive sudden rate hikes when carrier underwriting guidelines tighten.
Discover how to maintain agency growth, manage customer retention, and scale operations through hard market cycles. Kathy Hitchcock, agency owner of Hitchcock Insurance Group in Rome, Georgia, joins us to break down how she navigated back-to-back carrier rate increases of up to 60% as a scratch agent, scaled organic growth, and doubled her business by acquiring another book of business. If you are evaluating agency acquisitions, book purchases, or agency valuation, check out Insurance Agency Trader.
Connect with Kathy Hitchcock: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-hitchcock-0b450999/?isSelfProfile=false
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 Opening up as a scratch agent in 2015
01:38 Facing a 60 percent rate increase in the first six months
04:00 Managing customer retention when rates spike
07:25 Law of large numbers and building cushion against cancellations
08:56 Growing 3 million dollars organically and buying a book of business
10:35 Integrating an acquired book into existing sales and service teams
15:05 Outbound telemarketing and quoting grind to survive early years
18:18 Family support structure and avoiding desperation hires
59:58 Transitioning from top producer to servant leadershipThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
51 min
Meaningful, Customized, Unexpected: Reciprocity That Wins Clients
Show notes
Turn insurance prospect conversations into closed business with ethical persuasion and reciprocity.
This episode covers how P&C agency owners can leverage behavioral science, active listening, and relationship-driven sales to improve closing rates and client retention. Author and international influence consultant, Brian Ahearn breaks down the practical application of Robert Cialdini's influence principles and explains how meaningful, customized, unexpected outreach sets producers apart. If you want to scale your operations and develop high-performing systems, check out the Agent Elite community and our Million Dollar Agency book.
Connect with Brian Ahearn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfahearn/
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 How small extra steps separate you from the competition
03:13 Brian Ahearn on using AI to write and refine books
06:05 Connecting influence principles to a higher purpose
10:18 Applying reciprocity and the liking principle to sales conversations
16:03 Letting go of control and prioritizing people over process
27:06 Avoiding tunnel vision in career and business growth
34:48 Staying content without becoming complacent as an operator
40:08 Active listening and documenting personal details on prospect calls
47:28 Amplifying reciprocity: meaningful, customized, and unexpected touches 50:38 Why relationship building drives long-term insurance retentionThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastListen to the Audio Podcast
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insurance-dudes/id1451888095
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gVVPkZ2MWQ1orwdltdIAKHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
28 min
Great Agencies Don’t Hire Salespeople, They Build Them
Show notes
Hiring insurance producers who actually write premium comes down to building a repeatable training system rather than searching for a unicorn salesperson.
In this episode, we break down why relying on experienced talent often leads to high turnover and bad sales habits inside your agency. Learn how to recruit for coachability, structure daily producer onboarding, and run consistent sales training to ramp new hires to full quota faster. If you need a structured framework to evaluate role fit and streamline hiring producers across your team, check out TeamIQ.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 Why hiring experienced insurance salespeople often fails
04:15 The cost of uncoachable talent versus raw potential
09:30 Structuring daily onboarding and producer training
15:45 Setting clear production benchmarks and activity metrics
21:10 Building repeatable sales processes for agency scale
26:20 Final takeaways on developing top producers in-houseThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
42 min
Why Most Agents Fail the Exam
Show notes
How to help new insurance producers pass the licensing exam on their first attempt and reduce onboarding drop-off.
Melissa, the Insurance Exam Queen joins us to break down why most candidates struggle with the insurance licensing exam and how agency owners can fix their preparation process. When bringing new talent into your agency, long study cycles and repeat test failures cost time and revenue. Structuring a clear study framework helps your new hires get licensed faster and onto the phones sooner.
For screening and hiring producers who fit your agency culture, check out TeamIQ.
Connet with Melissa: insuranceexamqueen.com
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2-mT7QUl_jHYQRIaw0Ihpg
https://www.instagram.com/insuranceexamqueen/
https://www.instagram.com/insuranceexamqueen/Key Takeaways and Timestamps
0:00 Common reasons candidates fail the insurance exam
5:15 The cost of delayed licensing during onboarding
12:40 Structuring a daily study routine for new hires
21:10 Study retention strategies and practice testing
31:05 Moving newly licensed producers to the phones
38:20 Building a repeatable producer onboarding systemThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
53 min
The Future of Insurance: Technology, Risk & Relationships
Show notes
How P&C insurance agency owners can adapt to modern technology, evaluate emerging risk, and strengthen client retention to scale their business.
In this episode, we discuss the changing landscape of insurance technology, managing risk profiles, and maintaining strong relationship-driven service. Learn how to implement sustainable agency growth systems and streamline your operations in a shifting market. If you are looking to scale your agency systems and processes, check out the Agent Elite community and the Million Dollar Agency book.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 The Unexpected Acquisition Journey
02:59 SageSure: A Deep Dive into the Company
05:56 The Path to Insurance: A Personal Story
08:59 Connecting Insurance and Financial Markets
11:58 The Birth of SageSure
14:53 Organic Growth and Strategic Decisions
17:47 Maintaining Momentum in a Competitive Market
21:10 Lessons Learned from Challenges
24:09 Investing in Technology for Growth
27:02 Understanding the Homeowners Insurance Market
30:35 Understanding the Cost of Capital in Insurance
36:06 The Role of Reinsurers in the Insurance Market
41:28 Challenges in the California Insurance Market
46:15 The Evolution of Insurance Agents and Technology
57:25 The Future of Insurance: Technology and RelationshipsThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
59 min
From Wild Claims to Agency Success: Michelle O'Connor's Journey
Show notes
Scale your P&C insurance agency by building repeatable operations, handling complex claims, and tightening your client acquisition process.
In this episode, we sit down with agency owner Michelle O'Connor to break down the operational shifts required to build a sustainable book of business. We walk through navigating claims handling, transitioning into agency leadership, and setting up daily processes that protect retention while driving steady agency growth.
For frameworks on scaling systems and building long-term value, check out the Agent Elite community and the Million Dollar Agency book.
Connect with Michelle O'Connor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellenagelioconnor/
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to agency operations and claims handling
05:15 Lessons learned from early claims and operational challenges
14:30 Transitioning from individual producer to agency leader
26:45 Implementing daily operating systems for agency growth
38:20 Retention strategies and managing client relationships
49:10 Long term agency planning and building sustainable value
56:40 Final takeaways for P&C agency ownersThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
16 min
The 15-Minute Meeting That Changes Everything
Show notes
Meetings: the overlooked habit that keeps an agency from falling apart
This episode breaks down why daily meetings are the “glue” that keeps an insurance agency running smoothly. We explain how inconsistent check-ins create hidden problems, while short, focused meetings surface roadblocks, accountability gaps, and team momentum before the numbers slip.
We discuss why meetings are often avoided, why that avoidance makes problems harder to fix, and how AI tools can help track team sentiment and patterns over time.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 - The thing that disappears before agency numbers start dropping
02:36 - Why meetings are the uncomfortable habit owners avoid
06:03 - The simplest meeting agenda: targets, roadblocks, and fixes
09:06 - Set the meeting, forget the excuses
11:36 - Using AI note-taking to track daily team meetings
12:05 - Reading team sentiment and leading indicators with AI
15:40 - Why 15 focused minutes can replace scattered interruptions
16:44 - Surprises, accountability, and recognition in daily meetingsThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastListen to the Audio Podcast
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insurance-dudes/id1451888095
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gVVPkZ2MWQ1orwdltdIAKHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
46 min
$6 Million Non-Renewed - Then Everything Changed with Dan Kitajima
Show notes
Struggling to stay profitable when carriers change the rules on you overnight?
Dan Kitajima shares the brutal moment his captive agency lost $6 million of book in six months, right as he had just signed a $20,000-a-month office lease - and how that shock forced him to rethink everything.
We pushed Dan into the numbers behind the move from captive to independent, from broker fees and comp plans to closing ratios, retention, and why hyper-specializing can beat trying to sell everything. You’ll hear how Dan retained most of the affected book, why charging $150 to $250 in broker fees can actually improve service, and how independence gave him more control over pricing, appetite, and client outcomes.
If you’re a captive agent wondering whether the independent model is worth the leap, this conversation gives you the real-world pros, cons, and ramp-up lessons without the hype. Essential listening for agents who want more control, better margins, and a business built to survive the next market disruption.
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
55 min
The Hiring Mistake That Costs Visionary CEOs Their Best People with Mandy Keene
Show notes
Hiring for insurance agencies requires a specific strategy to avoid turnover and protect your company culture.
This episode covers the common hiring mistakes that lead visionary CEOs to lose their best talent and how to implement better agency systems for long term retention. Mandy Keene, a specialist in helping business owners align their team with their vision, joins us to discuss role fit and leadership. Learn how to identify the right candidates for your P&C agency and keep them engaged.
If you are struggling with hiring or culture, check out TeamIQ to find the right role fit for your next producer.
Connect with Mandy Keene: mandykeene.com/transformative-coaching
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:00 - Why self-awareness is now a business necessity
01:59 - Mandy Keene’s path from bullied student to coach
04:14 - 25 years of coaching and using assessments
05:16 - What separates grounded high achievers from destructive ones
09:45 - Why misalignment creates struggle and suffering
11:29 - The penguin in the desert metaphor
14:14 - Jason’s turning point from proving to performing
18:14 - How calm and relaxed became the new standard
21:53 - What understand.me is and why Russell Brunson created it
25:20 - Why assessments reduce hiring risk
27:26 - Hiring by personality fit instead of hiring “more of you”
30:27 - Why sales hiring often goes wrong
32:08 - How assessments reduce interview and hiring BS
35:22 - Enneagram, DISC, and different entrepreneurial styles
40:30 - Why the “integrator” is often really two or three roles
44:43 - Visionaries need a manager so they can stay in the cave and create
47:57 - Why EOS is useful but oversimplified for many founders
50:04 - The rock star analogy for leadership and energy management
53:21 - The Beatles example: staying in the creative lane
56:34 - What to look for in sales and service roles
60:13 - How to keep top performers by meeting their top values
62:55 - Where to find understand.meThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
57 min
How $500 Became a 50-Employee Insurance Empire
Show notes
Struggling to grow when your best move feels too risky to make?
We discuss how to scale a P&C agency from scratch. The episode focuses on the transition from a small startup to a 50 employee operation by implementing specific outbound dialing processes and hiring the right producers. Guest Dan Garzella, owner of The Garzella Group, explains his journey of building an agency empire starting with only 500 dollars.
If you are looking to scale your outbound efforts and improve lead generation, check out TeleDudes / Telefunnel.
Connect with Dan Garzella: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-garzella-87944510
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
0:00 Introduction to scaling a P&C agency
2:45 Starting an agency with 500 dollars
7:12 The reality of outbound dialing for growth
12:35 Hiring producers and building a 50 employee team
18:50 Systems for consistent lead generation
25:10 Managing agency valuation and long term scalingThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
25 min
Why Your Agency Hiring Process Is Failing
Show notes
Hiring Producers for P&C Agencies.
In this episode, we discuss effective recruitment techniques for finding high performing talent in a competitive market. We break down the mechanics of role fit and how to screen for candidates who actually want to work.
If you are looking to improve your hiring process, hiring producers, and team culture, check out TeamIQ.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
0:00 Introduction to hiring challenges
4:15 Why role fit is more important than experience
8:30 Screening for work ethic in the first interview
12:45 Creating a culture that attracts producers
18:20 Using assessments to find the right team members
24:10 Closing thoughts on recruitment strategyThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastHey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
31 min
Mastering the Insurance Sale: Six Stages to Success
Show notes
How to close more P&C deals in 6 steps.
In this episode, we break down the six stages of every successful insurance sale. We explain how to move prospects through the funnel using consistent outbound dialing and proven lead generation strategies. Mastering these stages is essential for agency growth and maximizing your overall agency valuation.
Improve your results with our outbound lead gen and dialing tools at Teledudes.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
0:00 The first stage of the insurance sales cycle
4:15 Why lead generation is the foundation of growth
8:30 Mastering the outbound dialing process
12:45 Strategies for moving prospects to the next stage
17:00 How to handle common sales objections
22:15 Final steps to closing the deal and improving retentionThe Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.comIf this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcastListen to the Audio Podcast
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insurance-dudes/id1451888095Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
24 min
Mastering Lead Generation: Six Steps to Insurance Agency Success with iDudes Mailbag
Season 8, Episode 805
Show notes
Are your marketing efforts leaking money without delivering the growth you need?
This episode dives into the real, behind-the-scenes challenges of running successful lead campaigns and how to fix the leaky buckets draining your budget.
You’ll learn the six crucial stages to optimize, from sourcing reliable leads and managing cold calls to navigating carrier flags and discover how to fix broken systems that keep your agency stuck. We share their proven strategies to cut through the noise, avoid common pitfalls like inconsistent lead flow, and control your marketing like a well-oiled machine. Whether you're struggling with contact rates, dialing issues, or just want more for less, this episode reveals how to turn your marketing investment into predictable, scalable growth. Perfect for agents looking to upgrade their game and finally see measurable results from their efforts because with the right setup, you can make your marketing work for you, not against you.
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite:https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller:https://milliondollaragencybook.com/
Insurance Dudes Files:https://blog.theidudes.com/
TeamIQ:https://teamiq.theidudes.com/
Telefunnel Lead Callers:https://theidudes.com/
ILB:https://insuranceleadbrokers.com/
Insurance Agency Trader:https://trader.theidudes.com/
If this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcast
Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
21 min
The Secret Sauce to Insurance Business Success with iDudes Mailbag
Season 8, Episode 804
Show notes
Think your agency has a lead problem?
Most agencies aren’t losing sales because they bought the wrong leads, they’re losing because they’re not tracking the right numbers. In this episode, we break down the 3 metrics every P&C agency needs to scale with confidence: cost per sale, lifetime value, and payback period.
When you know your numbers, you stop guessing, stop bleeding cash, and start building a real money machine. Better decisions. Better margins. Better growth.
Ready to build a stronger, more profitable agency?
👇 Join the elite ranks of P&C agents. Sign up for Agent Elite today and get exclusive resources to grow your agency!
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite:https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller:https://milliondollaragencybook.com
Insurance Dudes Files:https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ:https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers:https://theidudes.com
ILB:https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader:https://trader.theidudes.com
If this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcast
Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
1 hr 1 min
From Chaos to Order: The Insurance Journey of Andrew Engler
Season 8, Episode 803
Show notes
Most agencies aren’t losing growth because of price, they’re losing because of process. 👀
In this episode, we break down why the best P&C agencies win by building better systems, not just pushing harder. From producer accountability to closing more business, the real edge comes from creating a repeatable process that helps your team sell with confidence. We also dig into why chaos kills scale and how top agencies turn messy workflows into momentum.
Ready to build a stronger, more profitable agency?
👇 Join the elite ranks of P&C agents. Sign up for Agent Elite today and get exclusive resources to grow your agency!
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.com
If this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcast
Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
24 min
How Hiring Mistakes Drain Your Agency's Profits with iDudes Mailbag
Show notes
Are bad hires quietly draining your profits?
We discovered how the true cost of a failed team member can skyrocket to $74,000 in just six months and why neglecting this is crushing your growth. You'll learn the concrete numbers behind hiring mistakes, the cascading effects of turnover, and practical steps to build a pipeline of champions who keep delivering for your agency long-term.
We break down the hidden expenses you’re paying: the opportunity costs, the lost revenue from underperformers, and the real value of a solid hiring process. We reveal a repeatable system for recruiting top-tier talent, assessing candidates objectively, and avoiding costly mistakes that bleed your bottom line.
Plus, they share how the right team setup turns into a revenue machine, helping you hit bonuses and scale faster than ever.
If you're tired of the revolving door and want to create a team that sticks, produces, and propels your agency forward, this episode is your blueprint.
Learn to turn hiring from a headache into a strategic advantage because the right people make all the difference in your journey to scale.
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite:https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller:https://milliondollaragencybook.com
Insurance Dudes Files:https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ:https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers:https://theidudes.com
ILB:https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader:https://trader.theidudes.com
If this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcast
Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
19 min
How 1% Improvements Lead to 40X Growth with iDudes Mailbag
Show notes
How to teach and train a sales team effectively depends on consistency and repetition rather than one-off training events. We answer a mailbag question about the best way to develop producers and ensure agency growth.
The episode breaks down why daily meetings are the core of a successful sales system and how they prevent the natural entropy of an agency. It covers the compounding effect of one percent daily improvements, the skeleton of a high-converting sales script, and how to meet prospects where they are to close more auto insurance leads.
Join the Agent Elite community to access scripts and systems designed for scaling your agency.
Key Takeaways and Timestamps
00:16 How to teach and train a sales team
01:00 Why daily meetings change the business
02:02 The gym analogy for agency consistency
05:27 Using the plane flight analogy for course correction 07:11 The law of entropy in a sales system
09:07 How one percent daily improvements lead to 40x growth
10:54 Breaking down the sales script and the opener
12:20 Understanding what the prospect actually wants
14:56 Why big carriers spend billions on specific marketing messages
15:42 Connection and rapport building techniques
17:00 Stacking coverages and benefits
17:43 Handling and isolating objections
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite: https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller: https://MillionDollarAgencyBook.com
Insurance Dudes Files: https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ: https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers: https://theidudes.com
ILB: https://insuranceleadbrokers.comInsurance Agency Trader: https://trader.theidudes.com
If this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcast
Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes -
17 min
How to Hire A Players in a Tight Market
Show notes
Think your agency has a lead problem? Think again.
In this high-energy episode, we reveal how top agencies are slicing through chaos by upgrading their talent game. Discover why ditching the bottom tier can triple productivity, how clear standards keep A players engaged, and why investing more upfront saves headaches and boosts profits fast.
Learn why hiring for attitude over cheap labor is the secret sauce to building a powerhouse team. We share real numbers, like paying $10 more an hour reducing turnover and skyrocketing sales and show you how to implement a success metric system that self-selects top performers. Plus, they drop insights on leveraging human connection to attract A players, so your agency thrives in any economy.
Ready to build a stronger, more profitable agency? 👇
Join the elite ranks of P&C agents. Sign up for Agent Elite today and get exclusive resources to grow your agency!
The Insurance Dudes Resources
Join the Agent Elite:https://www.skool.com/agentelite
Best Seller:https://milliondollaragencybook.com
Insurance Dudes Files:https://blog.theidudes.com
TeamIQ:https://teamiq.theidudes.com
Telefunnel Lead Callers:https://theidudes.com
ILB:https://insuranceleadbrokers.com
Insurance Agency Trader:https://trader.theidudes.com
If this helps, subscribe and hit the bell so you can catch every episode.
Follow Us
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinsurancedudes
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insurance-dudes-podcast
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/insurancedudespodcast
Listen to the Audio Podcast
Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insurance-dudes/id1451888095
Hey there! Thank you for listening! We'd be SUPER GRATEFUL for a subscribe!
And a review over on the Apple Podcasts would be incredible!
Check out our newsletter, webinar, and some great Internet Lead tactics at The Insurance Dudes Homepage.
We appreciate you!
Craig Pretzinger & Jason Feltman
The Insurance Dudes
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