Who would you invite to your block party?

Who would you invite to your block party?

Author: Heath Shearon October 23, 2025 Duration: 24:06

This is an episode recorded at the PIA VADC conference in Virginia Beach with my man Byron Roberts.  It is a fast, on-the-ground conversation about how Openly built for independent agents, why speed still matters, and how data is shifting from rearview mirror to windshield. 
Quick recap

Openly’s origin story is agent-first. Founders Ty Harris and Matt Duffy asked agents what they actually needed, then shipped a three-question quote experience built to find “diamonds in the rough,” not write everything in sight. The company doubled down on listening loops like ACE, its Agency Council of Excellence, to sanity-check product decisions, fix friction fast, and keep writing business during a stubborn hard market. They are rolling into PL Rating in key states to cut keystrokes, and they see the next frontier as forward-looking data that helps carriers price for tomorrow’s weather, not yesterday’s. 

Key takeaways

  • Built by and for independent agents, not DTC. Choice and counsel are the strategy. 
  • Three inputs to quote, then verify details to bind accurately and quickly. Think seconds, not hours. 
  • ACE council gives Openly real-time agent feedback and a promise to report back on changes. 
  • Smart underwriting beats growth at any cost. Openly tightens or tweaks instead of pulling out. 
  • PL Rating integrations are in motion to reduce double entry and speed comparisons. 
  • Data is shifting from historical to predictive. Actuaries need “crystal balls,” not just rearview mirrors. 


Notable quotes

“Tell me I can’t, I’ll show you I will.” Byron on persistence.

“Three questions, name, date of birth, and address. We can get it.” On the quoting thesis.

“We’re staying open for these agencies. We don’t tighten everything down or pull out.” On disciplined appetite.

“We used to look at historical data. Now we need crystal balls.” On forward-looking pricing.


Sponsor 
Smart Choice- The fastest growing insurance network, with 10,000 agencies, 11 billion in written premium written its incredible
Canopy Connect- your 1 click solution to getting the deck pages you need to quote your prospects. 


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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