8 years of celebrating women in benefits

Happy anniversary to our series! It’s hard to believe that eight years have passed since this idea of featuring women in our industry became a reality, thanks to my good friend and Editor-In-Chief, Paul Wilson, who challenged me with, “I just want to hear some good news.” Back in 2016, the media was filled with negativity, and 8 years later, the need for positive stories is just as strong, if not stronger.

The number eight is quite special. In numerology, it symbolizes success, authority, and balance, emphasizing the harmony between the material and spiritual aspects of life. Isn’t that exactly what this series is about? We share stories and wisdom from women across the country who are doing incredible things in our industry, inspiring others to do the same in their own communities. I’m proud to say that after eight years, these stories continue to inspire me just as much as they did in the beginning.

So without further ado, let’s continue our 8th year with some inspirational stories from Kellie and Lisa! 

Kellie Pickett, H Pickett Insurance Agency

“Over the past 12 months, I have achieved several significant milestones that reflect my growth and leadership within my company and industry. I successfully developed the first strategic growth plan for HP Insurance Agency, which is set to launch later this year and into 2025. This plan marks a pivotal step in our company’s future. Additionally, I spearheaded the rollout of an innovative app in collaboration with a developer. This app, designed to integrate seamlessly with our medical cost-sharing solutions, aims to greatly enhance our members’ experience by overcoming various challenges we previously faced.

Beyond these projects, I stepped out of my comfort zone by speaking at a San Antonio NAWBO chapter event, where I engaged with women business owners about innovative approaches to health care and benefits. I also attended the NextGen Bootcamp in July, an intensive training that was both challenging and immensely rewarding. These accomplishments highlight my transition from a traditional operations role to a leadership position, driving change and innovation.”

Lisa Talcott, AssuredPartners

“Over the past 20 years, I have focused on growing businesses by systematizing processes thatalign with company vision, building successful teams, and implementing strategic initiatives. This past year, my leadership efforts have been dedicated to an organization close to my heart, the National Association of Benefits & Insurance Professionals (NABIP). Currently, I serve as the NABIP Minnesota President, which has provided me with the opportunity to attend various NABIP meetings at the national, regional, and state levels.

In June, I led the NABIP MN annual planning meeting, overseeing several significant changes, including our name change from MAHU to NABIP MN, the launch of a new website, the transition to a new CPA, the onboarding of a new association management admin partner, and the introduction of a new board of directors. These changes signify a period of growth and renewal for our organization.

Additionally, I was recently promoted from Vice President to Senior Vice President at AssuredPartners, marking an exciting time of change and progress in my career.”

These stories highlight the remarkable achievements of women in our industry. If you know an exceptional woman who is making a difference, we’d love to hear about her. Please introduce us by emailing me at scombs@combsandco.com.  Let’s come together to celebrate and support their accomplishments!