Case Studies

The journey of Rachel McRee unfolds as she transitions from a seasoned captive agent to the founder of her independent agency in 2023. In this captivating blog post, Rachel shares her wealth of insurance industry experience, revealing the pivotal moments that led her to specialize in commercial lines. From navigating a challenging noncompete to seeking network support with Smart Choice, Rachel takes us through the highs and lows of her newfound independence. Join her in overcoming operational challenges, embracing the intricacies of commercial insurance, and strategically positioning herself in a competitive market. As Rachel looks ahead, her story becomes an inspiring narrative for independent agents navigating the dynamic landscape of the insurance industry.

The resilient journey unfolds as Harold Salant, owner of Harold J. Salant Insurance Agency, recounts his 20-year quest for a no-handcuffs insurance network. Discover how Smart Choice emerged as the beacon of flexibility and freedom in an industry fraught with restrictive terms. From surviving a carrier shutdown to thriving in a challenging market, delve into Harold's strategic shift to Smart Choice and the decade-long partnership that has not only sustained but propelled his agency's growth. This meta data offers a glimpse into a tale of resilience, adaptability, and gratitude, where Smart Choice becomes the cornerstone of Harold's enduring success in the insurance landscape.

The inspiring journey of Vance Whitwer, Director of Insurance Services at LFG Insurance Services, unfolds as he catapults from a captive insurance agent to an independent powerhouse, achieving an astounding $200,000 in new business within just five months. Discover Vance's strategic transition, overcome challenges, and leverage agency network support for providing enhanced protection to his clients. Learn how Smart Choice played a pivotal role in Vance's rapid success, offering access to multiple carriers and empowering him to become a trusted advisor. If you're a captive agent with aspirations for independence, Vance's story serves as a testament to the transformative power of agency networks. Explore how Smart Choice can accelerate your path to establishing a thriving independent agency.

The inspiring journey of Tom Wertish unfolds as he turns a career transition into a triumph, establishing Options Insurance and achieving remarkable success. Explore the strategic choices and Smart Choice partnership that fueled his agency's growth to $6 million. Learn how Tom's commitment to exceptional service, diverse insurance lines, and the freedom of options shaped his trajectory, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the insurance industry.

Brittany Olson, a seasoned independent insurance agent, as she navigates the challenges of starting her own agency in Cloquet, Minnesota. Uncover the family tradition that fueled her passion and the pivotal decision to join Smart Choice for network support. Learn how Smart Choice empowered Brittany without upfront costs, providing crucial carrier markets and invaluable resources. Discover why the "independent" in independent agency matters to Brittany and how Smart Choice's unique approach helped her surpass a $2.5 million milestone. Join us in maximizing the independent spirit of insurance agency success!

Embark on the inspiring journey of Erica Goltz-Ski, the founder of Wilebski Insurance Agency. From starting with no policies to building a thriving business, discover how her belief, advocacy, and the support of Smart Choice paved the way. Explore the ethical foundations, client-focused approach, and the pivotal role of long-term relationships in her success. Join Erica's story of realizing her dream by not just selling policies but genuinely taking care of her clients.

As a pilot, a heart transplant patient and the owner of a multimillion-dollar independent insurance agency, Sam Khair knows that the sky’s the limit. With Smart Choice network as his partner, he has survived challenging times. Now, he and his daughter are taking the Khairing Agency to new altitudes.

Chris Workman is the president of Workman Insurance Group, a Louisiana-based agency that he opened in 2016. In the years since he’s been in business, the Louisiana market has experienced an insurance crisis, as carriers move out of the storm-battered state. Thanks to his partnership with Smart Choice and access to excess and surplus, and specialty lines carriers, Chris has managed to thrive during difficult times.

As the owner of Carolina’s 1st Choice Agency LLC, Christian Gallardo strives to give his clients the best in terms of coverage choice and personal service. Christian’s agency is located in the southwestern part of North Carolina, and earns most of its business through referrals, thanks to satisfied clients and Christian’s extensive community involvement...

Kevin Krupka knows what it takes to grow an insurance agency. He’s the owner of Mountain Insurance Brokers in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Over the years, he’s learned that if he wants to achieve real success, he needs to give his clients what they want. By leveraging a network partnership, he’s been able to do just that.

After years of working for other agencies, Becky Cates founded Cates Insurance Agency, LLC, in 2021. Before doing so, she had to overcome the fear of not having a reliable paycheck – an uncertainty that stops many agents from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. Fortunately, Becky had the courage to make the leap...

Kim Winningham first opened the doors of Altamaha Agency in October 2020. Although she had more than a decade of experience in the insurance industry, she was building her agency from the ground up, and she was doing it in less-than-ideal times thanks to the Covid pandemic.