
Let's Get Surety
If you have ever gone to a school or a park, attended a large sporting event, rode on a bus, driven on a highway, bought imported goods, or sent a wire transfer, you have been protected by the surety product. On the second and fourth Tuesday of each month Kat Shamapande, the host of Let's Get Surety will be joined by fun co-hosts and exciting and engaging guests who will share their stories, insights, and expertise on the world of surety and how it affects our everyday lives! If you are interested in learning more about surety and surety bonds, this is the podcast for you!
Latest episodes

Apr 9, 2024 • 31min
#110 Unlocking the Mysteries of Surety Bonds for Owners and Other Decision-Makers
On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with Corban Enns of Gallagher Affinity Insurance Solutions, shedding light on the complexities of working with state agencies and navigating through the nuances of bonding. Corban shares his journey getting into surety, discusses the CSBS and NMLS, and addresses the confusion about the surety product that you might encounter. Most importantly he shares stories and insight on how to be proactively advocating for the benefits and significance of the surety product with owners and obligees. Join us as we uncover the secrets to successful collaboration and advocacy in the world of surety. With special guest: Corban Enns, Area President & Director of Surety, Gallagher Affinity Insurance Solutions Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

Mar 26, 2024 • 33min
#109 Decoding Customs Bonds
In this episode, John Sheppard, an expert in customs bonds, discusses the importance of customs bonds in guaranteeing payment of duties, taxes, and compliance with federal regulations. He also explains the various scenarios where customs bonds are utilized, such as goods violating intellectual property rights or duty reclamation. Learn about the complexities of customs bonds, duty rates, and the claims process against customs bonds.

Mar 12, 2024 • 18min
#108 Pursuing the CCIFP Credential
Have you ever considered getting a CCIFP? On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Damien Strohmier, CCIFP of DSP Insurance Services as we explore the value of the CCIFP certification and how it can give producers, underwriters, and CPAs a competitive edge in the construction industry. We discuss the certification, its components, and what it means to earn your CCIFP, as well as the cost to take and maintain this certification. Check out the Surety Bond Quarterly article, "Certification Savvy" for more CCIFP stories, and find out more about the CCIFP! With special guest: Damien Strohmier, Surety Bond Producer, DSP Insurance Services Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

Feb 27, 2024 • 32min
#107 Ironclad Personal Guarantee... Or Is It?
Exploring the pitfalls of negotiating personal guarantees in the construction industry, the podcast discusses the complexities and implications of enforceability. The importance of clear documentation, understanding co-obligors' roles, and assessing contract risks are highlighted to avoid legal surprises and protect against liabilities.

Feb 13, 2024 • 26min
#106 The Corner Office: A Conversation With Merchants Bonding Company President Larry Taylor
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader in the surety industry? NASBP is excited to announce a new series of episodes exploring that question, titled "The Corner Office: Conversations with Surety Leaders." In this first episode, we are joined by surety industry leader Larry Taylor, President of Merchants Bonding Company, to talk about what it takes to lead an insurance company solely focused on surety bonding. Larry shares his background, including that he is a fourth-generation executive at Merchants Bonding Company, and relates the strategies and reasons behind the company's growth and how Merchants fosters its appealing company culture. Larry also speaks to opportunities and to challenges on the horizon for the surety industry as a whole and emphasizes the importance of sharing the value of the surety product more broadly. Check out the EY report prepared for SFAA, mentioned during this episode, titled The Economic Value of Surety Bonds. With special guest: Larry Taylor, President, Merchants Bonding Company Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

Jan 23, 2024 • 26min
#105 Brilliant Game of Confidence and Relationships: Talking Sales With Ryan Estis
On this episode of Let’s Get Surety® we learn from sales and leadership expert Ryan Estis how to approach sales with confidence and the power of relationships. Ryan explains how good salespeople are made and not born, and what qualities are necessary for success - like staying curious and being an expert in a particular industry. He explains the importance of trust and creating emotional connection, as well as how preparation can make a huge impact! Listen to learn more about how to build strong and impactful relationships. Find out more information from Ryan in his recent book "Prepare for Impact." With special guest: Ryan Estis, Co-Founder, ImpactEleven Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

Jan 9, 2024 • 30min
#104 We've Got What You Need: Surety Professionals Discuss the Value of NASBP Membership
Brad Babcock, Nicole Campbell, and Jennifer Morales discuss the value of joining NASBP and the benefits it offers. They highlight resources like the SmartBrief, Blog, and White Papers. The podcast explores the importance of networking, education for clients, meeting opportunities, and the overall value of NASBP membership.

Dec 26, 2023 • 22min
#103 Accounting Needs for Small Contractors
On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with CPA Jessica Krause, founder and owner of New Lyfe Accounting. Jessica shares her expertise in accounting for construction firms and the importance of having an accurate WIP report. We discuss the importance of small contractors learning how to prioritize, delegate, and grow their team of trusted advisors as their company grows. Jessica discusses how outsourcing accounting services can help small contractors do just that and offers tips on the right questions to ask to find a CPA who understands the dynamics of the industry! With special guest: Jessica Krause, CPA, CCIFP, Owner, New Lyfe Accounting Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

Dec 12, 2023 • 26min
#102 A Conversation With Steve Sandherr on AGC of America
On this episode of Let's Get Surety®, we talk with Steve Sandherr, CEO of Associated General Contractors of America, who has served the association for more than three decades as he announces his upcoming retirement. Looking back, he talks about his journey to AGC, building and keeping talented teams, and the importance of working with like-minded groups. Steve shares his insights on the commercial construction industry and offers a glimpse at the amazing work that has gone into ConsensusDocs, AGC's educational offerings, and AGC's government relations work that has aided in shaping policies for the benefit of the commercial construction industry, during his tenure. Get more information on AGC of America at www.agc.org. With special guest: Steve Sandherr, CEO, Associated General Contractors of America Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

Nov 28, 2023 • 33min
#101 Women in Surety: Power and Potential Unleashed
On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we speak with leaders of Women in Surety, Inc., a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization, founded in 2016 to offer surety women opportunities, mentorship, and support. Nancy Schnee, current President, Chandar Potter, Vice President, and Carol Levine, a co-founder, address how Women in Surety empowers, inspires, and advances women professionals in the surety industry. Our guests talk about the founding of the organization, the organization's structure, and its exciting growth and increasing recognition. The insightful conversation also touches on the terrific offerings of Women in Surety, like their events and mentorship program. Find out more about Women in Surety, including how to become a member, by visiting www.suretywomen.com. With special guests: Nancy Schnee, Senior Vice President, American Global, LLC and President and Founding Board Member, Women In Surety Chandar Potter, Head of Commercial Surety, Munich Re Specialty Insurance, Vice President and Founding Board Member, Women In Surety Carol Levine, President, Arthur B. Levine Co., Inc., and Co-Founder of Women in Surety Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!