Hard to Place, Easy to Profit: The Art of Captives

Hard to Place, Easy to Profit: The Art of Captives

Author: Heath Shearon October 9, 2025 Duration: 1:02:07

In this episode, the Mayor sits down with industry veteran Jeff Kleid  a 30-year insurance innovator, MGA, and carrier leader  to talk about the business of hard-to-place risks, the truth about captives, and how brokers can turn complex accounts into profitable opportunities.

From selling insurance on the internet in the ‘90s to building niche programs for cannabis, film, and trucking, Jeff shares real-world lessons about taking chances, trusting data, and transforming the way independent agents think about risk.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The evolution from retail broker to MGA and carrier
  • Why most agents misunderstand captives (and how to use them right)
  • Building programs for high-risk industries like towing and hemp
  • How to niche down without boxing yourself in
  • The role of AI in underwriting and program innovation

Key Takeaways:

  • Don’t fear the hard-to-place — that’s where opportunity lives.
  • Captives aren’t restrictive; they empower growth and control.
  • Niche success is built on relationships and risk awareness.
  • AI is a tool, not a replacement — human insight still wins the day.

Connect with Jeff Kleid:


Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
🧡 Smart Choice – The fastest-growing agency network helping independent agents write more business and earn more income.
🔗 Canopy Connect – The easiest way to collect your client’s insurance information in seconds.



Heath Shearon has spent years navigating every corner of the insurance industry, and in Insurance Town, he acts as your guide through its often complex landscape. Think of each episode as a casual, informative conversation held on the front porch of a town built entirely on insurance knowledge. Heath, who jokingly refers to himself as the Mayor, doesn’t just lecture; he brings in the many friends and colleagues he’s met over his career for genuine discussions that break down real-world scenarios. You’ll hear practical advice, behind-the-scenes insights, and straightforward explanations designed for both industry newcomers and seasoned professionals. This isn't about dry theory-it's about the tangible how-to and the why behind common business and personal coverage questions. The tone is welcoming and grounded in experience, set to a bluesy soundtrack courtesy of Daddy Long Legs. Tune into this podcast for a unique blend of business education and relatable storytelling that makes the intricacies of insurance feel approachable and even engaging.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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