Let's Get Surety

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!

Accounting standards can have quite an impact on surety, but how is the surety industry involved in shaping those standards? Dive into this episode of Let's Get Surety as we talk with David Pesce, Head of Surety with Munich Re Specialty - North America, about the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and its Private Company Council (PCC). Discover how these groups shape financial reporting and why and how surety professionals can get involved. Tune in for insights, examples, and how you can be part of the process! With special guest: David Pesce, Head of Surety, Munich Re Specialty - North America Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!

In this engaging discussion, Matt Curran, EVP at Sompo, reveals the importance of mentoring and building strong teams in the surety industry. Heidi Rodzen, AVP at Skillings Shaw, shares her journey from various roles to leadership, emphasizing the value of integrity and trust. David Hoover, SVP at Acrisure, provides insights on problem-solving for clients and the critical role of networking. Together, they explore strategies for career advancement and the transformative power of mentorship in shaping future leaders.

In this insightful discussion, Philip Macres, a Principal at Klein Law Group, who specializes in supporting telecommunications providers, shares his expertise on the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. The conversation explores the program’s origin and its evolving role in enhancing broadband access. Philip highlights the importance of performance bonds and how they can streamline funding for underserved areas. He also discusses the challenges ISPs face in securing grants and the vital role of surety professionals in navigating these complexities.

Curious how a fifth-generation insurance professional found his unexpected passion as a surety bond producer? Join us as we get to know NASBP 2025-2026 President Robert Coon. Robert shares stories regarding his career, journey as an NASBP member, volunteer, and leader, and how his experiences led him to his theme, “Building Better.” Follow the links below to get more information on these topics mentioned by Robert during this episode: the producer's toolkit, joining a NASBP Committee, and more information on attending NASBP Fall meetings. And, if you share Robert's passion for the efficiencies gained through technology advancements, check out these related episodes and Virtual Seminars. With special guest: Robert Coon, Vice President - Surety, Scott Insurance  Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond! 

Join Michelle Lucaccioni, VP at Tokio Marine HCC, and John Sheppard, EVP at C.A. Shea & Company, as they tackle the evolving landscape of customs bonds amidst rising tariffs. They explore how fluctuating tariffs create demands for better bonding strategies and the challenges of compliance in a complex market. With insights on proactive risk management and the importance of building strong relationships, this conversation equips surety professionals with the tools to navigate today's unpredictable trade environment.

Curious how America’s infrastructure is really holding up? Join hosts Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum as they dive into the latest Infrastructure Report Card with ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith. Hear about surprising progress, looming challenges, funding gaps, and how civil engineers and policymakers, and surety professionals can collaborate for a more resilient future. Check out the full report for more information. With special guest: Thomas W. Smith III, Executive Director, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

Feeling overwhelmed by constant change and uncertainty? In this dynamic episode of "Let's Get Surety," we talk with business growth, sales, and leadership expert, author, and speaker Meridith Elliott Powell about building mental fitness, powerful resilience, and relentless vision in uncertain times. Using vivid stories and practical strategies, Meredith shares how to transform anxiety into action and vision into success. Don’t miss these game-changing insights! With special guest: Meridith Elliott Powell, Business Growth, Sales, and Leadership Expert Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

Stephen Irving, Co-Vice Chair of the Labor & Employment Practice at Peckar & Abramson, delves into the implications of Executive Order 14173 for federal contractors. He discusses the shift towards merit-based opportunities and its impact on diversity and affirmative action. The conversation covers compliance challenges, the potential risks of the False Claims Act, and ongoing legal battles surrounding these changes. Listeners gain insight into how businesses can navigate this evolving landscape while maintaining their diversity programs.

Are you interested in enhancing your leadership skills and your networking opportunities in the surety industry? In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we explore the NASBP's 5-15 Leadership Committee with guest and Vice Chair of the Committee, Mike Zahn of Moreton & Company. Learn how this dynamic program accelerates professional growth, builds powerful industry connections with peers and seasoned surety leaders, and provides exclusive mentorship opportunities. Don't miss this engaging discussion on how 5-15 Leadership Committee participation can take your career to the next level! Get more information about the 5-15 application/nominating process and don't forget to register for NASBP's 2025 Annual Meeting as mentioned during this episode! With special guest: Michael Zahn, Sales Executive, Moreton & Company Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic!