Let's Get Surety

What happens when construction projects go wrong? In this episode, dispute resolution expert Steve Nelson of Markel Surety shares proactive strategies to avoid, manage, and resolve conflicts before they derail a job or result in costly claims, from structuring stronger contracts to deploying standing neutrals before tensions boil over. Discover how surety professionals can spot trouble early, drive better outcomes for clients, and help clients prevent disputes from jeopardizing projects. Glean information with the aim of protecting profitability, preserving relationships, and staying ahead of the risk curve. With special guest: Steve Nelson, Executive Vice President/Senior Director, ADR Services, Markel Surety Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

In this engaging conversation, Brad Robinson, a Partner at Ward & Robinson LLC and former financial leader in construction, shares insights on contractor and subcontractor risk management. He discusses the critical importance of prequalification and how to navigate common pitfalls. Brad recounts his experiences with surety relationships, explaining why they are invaluable. He highlights the evolution of SDI practices and the benefits of proactive communication with sureties. Ultimately, his advice guides professionals in making informed decisions to mitigate risks effectively.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader in the surety industry? NASBP is excited to continue the series of episodes exploring that question, titled "The Corner Office: Conversations with Surety Leaders." In this episode, we are joined by Stephen Haney, Vice President, Chubb Group, and President and Chief Underwriting Officer, Global Surety with Chubb. Steve shares his journey and insights on industry trends. Tune in as we dive into AI, labor challenges, and the future of surety. With special guest: Stephen Haney, Vice President, Chubb Group, and President and Chief Underwriting Officer, Global Surety, Chubb Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

David Timm, an Associate at Burr & Forman LLP specializing in government contracts, dives into the complex world of federal bid protests. He shares insights on the critical differences between agency reviews, GAO processes, and the Court of Federal Claims. David discusses the unexpected challenges posed by AI, including hallucinated legal citations that can jeopardize a protest's credibility. He emphasizes the importance of consulting a specialized attorney and provides practical tips for safely integrating AI in bid submissions.

Ryan Work, President and CEO of the Surety & Fidelity Association of America, shares crucial insights about the surety industry. He discusses the significant rise in private bonding and the unexpected drop in loss ratios for Q2 2025. Ryan highlights SFAA's proactive approach to talent development and the essential role of data in advocacy efforts. He also touches on federal legislative priorities and the challenges of inconsistent bonding practices. With an eye on future trends, he offers cautious optimism about the path forward in a changing market.

Curious how a surety professional can influence the laws that protect our industry? Join us as our guests, Larry LeClair of NASBP, Alan Starks of Christensen Group Insurance, and Matt Cocco of Smith Brothers Insurance, as they discuss why advocacy is vital to the surety industry, how easy and rewarding the Federal Legislative Fly-in is, and how you can make a real impact in Washington. Get more information on attending the Federal Legislative Fly-in now! Don't miss it! Also check out the Surety Bond Quarterly article titled, "A Family Experience at the Legislative Fly-in" mentioned during this episode! With special guests: Larry LeClair, Director, Government Relations, NASBP Alan Starks, NASBP's GR Committee Chair and Senior Vice President – Surety, Christensen Group Insurance Matt Cocco, NASBP's GR Committee Vice Chair and Surety Risk Advisor, Partner, Smith Brothers Insurance Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

How does a surety company with South American roots break into the U.S. market? In this episode of "Let's Get Surety," Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum talk with Andrés Álamos and Sharyl Markovits of Avla US about entering the Texas surety market, facing challenges, and serving small and mid-size contractors using tech-driven solutions. Hear how they feel their global experience can lead to local successes in the US. With special guests: Andrés Álamos, CEO, Avla US and Sharyl Markovits, Head of Contract Surety, Avla US Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!

How are importers adapting to major changes in Canada's importing process? In this episode of "Let's Get Surety," we chat with Sheila Thompson of Rosenberg & Parker of Canada and Cristina Hagivreta, Commercial Surety Manager at Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company, who return to share insights on the rollout of the Canada Border Services Agency's CARM system and its financial security requirements. Hear what has worked, what bumps have occurred along the way, and what importers need to know now to stay compliant and avoid delays in importing goods into Canada. You can also check out the last episode on this topic, #121 Preparing for CARM: Changes in Canada's Importing Process, to see how far this process has come and check out the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to stay up to date on this issue! With special guests: Sheila Thompson, President, Rosenberg & Parker of Canada, Inc. and Cristina Hagivreta, Manager, Commercial Surety, Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!

Join Darrel Lamb, Senior Vice President at Old Republic Surety with over 35 years in the industry, as he shares his insights on the rewarding world of surety careers. He discusses his unique journey from banking to surety, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit and the vital role of relationship-building. Darrel also explores the far-reaching impact of surety bonds on community development, from infrastructure projects like schools to environmental initiatives. Tune in to discover why a career in surety is both rewarding and essential for community growth!

Curious about reinsurance and its impacts in the surety market? Join us on this episode as we chat with experts Brian Fiore of Aon, Stephen Haney of Chubb Surety, and Jeff Ryan of Partner Re to uncover what reinsurance is, why it is important to the surety market, and how it can drive growth, manage risk, and support major infrastructure projects. Plus, don't miss a lighthearted debate on the best Philly cheesesteak! Check out episode #135 Unveiling America's Infrastructure: Progress, Problems and Possibilities for more about the latest ASCE Infrastructure Report Card that was mentioned during this episode. With special guests: Brian Fiore, Senior Managing Director, Aon Stephen Haney, Division President, North America Surety, and Chief Underwriting Officer, Global Surety, Chubb Surety Jeff Ryan, Business Unit Leader, Financial Risks, Partner Re Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!