E101: Aviad Pinkovezky On Connecting First (feat. Peter MacDonald)

In this episode, James and guest co-host Peter MacDonald talk with Aviad Pinkovezky, President of First Connect Insurance. To learn more about First Connect Insurance, visit https://portal.firstconnectinsurance.com/signin. Visit our website to join our email list, get the scoop on our LIVE coaching calls and never miss an episode: https://www.agencyfreedom.com Connect with Agency Freedom Podcast on Facebook at the Agency Freedom Podcast group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at podcast@agencyfreedom.com with ideas, questions, complaints or your favorite grilling recipe. Episode Highlights: Aviad shares that he served in Israeli Military Intelligence for 10 years, working with super smart people to solve problems using technology and resourcefulness. (4:06) Aviad explains that everybody has their own risk tolerance and financial needs, so it is important to consider other factors before taking a risk. (11:54) Aviad mentions that it is now easier than ever to set up an agency from scratch, with very few hurdles and the friction is much less than it used to be. (16:37) Aviad discusses how First Connect helps small to medium-sized agencies compete with direct consumers. (17:54) Aviad mentions that providing access to markets is one big pillar of First Connect’s strategy and execution, as well as the technology solutions. (19:49) Aviad mentions that First Connect has reached the exciting milestone of 70 different carriers and MGA solutions, comprised of both traditional and InsurTech startups. (36:34) Aviad explains that they launched a consumer-grade experience to create a slick, intuitive experience for agents to explore and find new opportunities, and saw an increase of 160% in appointment requests. (41:05) Aviad discusses the huge difference between an agency that attracts high net worth, policyholders and one that attracts non-standard driving non-standard auto drivers, which requires different metrics, design, office space, and marketing. (43:27) Aviad mentions that a