How it Began
I don't think anyone plans to be an insurance agent when they grow up. I went through a multitude of interests: lawyer, psychologist, computer graphics and animation. I actually have my degree in Computer Graphics! No, I don't use it.
I was preparing to go on to get my masters in 2004 when my mother's father became very ill with ALS. This was when I really got my taste of how difficult it was to deal with the healthcare system, especially when you don't know how to advocate for yourself. I helped my mom and my grandmother care for him until he passed away, not too long after his initial diagnosis.
I put down roots again in Redding and used the the management experience I gained working at a wireless internet company in Chico to lay my future path. I have an extensive background in management, operations and office administration. I love teaching people new things and helping people grow in their job role.
I was presented an opportunity to work for one of the largest insurance companies in the United States. It was something I had never even considered before. I accepted it and was there for several years where I become an expert in navigating the health insurance system. I also discovered that the best part of my job was helping people. Being presented with a problem by an insured and being able to solve it was satisfying.
Combining the best of both worlds, I went to work for a small local insurance agency here in town. I learned a lot of valuable information from my employer who encouraged me to get my license. I obtained my license in 2017 and I honestly love what I do. I helped the agency grow, made lifelong friendships, streamlined processes, developed policies and procedures. I had the honor of hiring, training and working with some really amazing people, some of whom are still my closest friends.
About Me
Why I Am Doing It
I have met so many wonderful clients over the years and developed some real friendships. I want to thank each and everyone one of you for supporting me on my journey as I go independent. You will receive the same excellent service that you have come to expect from me, and I will have access to the best rates around.
During this incredible journey, I have learned skills to help people in ways that I could have never imagined before. In general, health insurance is a very confusing thing to understand. Getting claims paid for, understanding the benefits of your plan, and finding doctors to care for you can be very difficult.
In 2021, I really thought I knew the ins and outs of every aspect of this business: from the agent side, the consumer side and the health insurer side. When my younger brother was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in August of 2021, I discovered how much I still had to learn. My brother's treatment was critical to his survival and I needed to advocate for him every step of the way. He had the best care possible and I developed a lot of important techniques on how to get things pushed through as quickly as possible. The key is persistence and knowing what to ask for.
Tragically, my brother passed away on September 5, 2024, just one month shy of his 36th birthday. When that happened, I was wrecked. Heck, I am still wrecked. I was grateful for the time off to heal and to figure out what my next step would be.
It didn't take me long to figure it out. I am going to continue on this same path, helping people to the best of my ability. I commit to my clients that I will continue to learn and grow in my role as your agent. If I don't know the answer to a question, I will find it for you.
The week before my brother passed, I was sitting with him and telling him about the changes occurring in my work life. He hadn't been speaking very much at that point, as he was so incredibly tired. His eyes were mostly closed, but he would nod and shake his head in response to questions. I told him I was going to open my own agency, and he opened his eyes and nodded. "Do it." His eyes said. "Do it."
I did.
What is My Goal