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​ What Independent Agency Leaders Can Learn from HubSpot’s INBOUND Conference

Subtitle: By Julie Furst Body: Running an agency today means juggling growth, technology, and people. At HubSpot’s INBOUND conference (my favorite marketing conference), I heard ideas that apply directly to independent insurance agencies. Below are a few of the big takeaways, explained in plain language, with concrete next steps you can try right away.Beacuse I can't shout this from the rooftop enough, I want to start with - NEVER put personally identifiable info into AI.​ Yours or your customers. Don't let this keep you from using the great tools though.1) Trust is the new tech stackTranslation: Your technology matters, AND people buy from those they trust.Inside your agency, culture…

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Recap: 10 Powerful Takeaways from Big I NY’s First Women in Insurance Summit

Abstract: Big I New York’s inaugural Women in Insurance Summit (September 30, 2025) united industry professionals for a day focused on empowerment, leadership, and connection. Featuring speakers Jenn Urso and Tinsley English, the event emphasized confidence, authenticity, and progress over perfection, while introducing concepts like English’s “G-Force” — Grit, Growth, and Gumption. With a Net Promoter Score of 91 and 94% of attendees eager to recommend it, the Summit fostered meaningful dialogue on storytelling, delegation, mentorship, and self-belief. Attendees left inspired to lead with vision, courage, and community. Body: ​10 Powerful Takeaways from Big I NY's First Women in Insurance Summit ​Buffalo, NY | September 30,…

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DFS Targets Mandatory CE Course Requirement

Abstract: Some agents and brokers have falsely stated on their renewal applications that they took the mandatory courses. It didn't end well for them. Body: ​Penalty by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0 Alpha Stock ImagesThe New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) insurance regulations require agents and brokers to take certain continuing education (CE) courses. Some of them have falsely stated on their renewal applications that they took the courses. It didn't end well for them. We strongly urge all licensed agency principals and employees to take the courses and answer the renewal application questions truthfully.In late 2021, DFS announced that it had adopted a regulation requiring…

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