In this episode of Power Women In Insurance, Teresa Kitchens sits down with Susan Wathen Johnston, President of Countryside Insurance Agency. Susan discusses how to build resilience and how to approach each day with Tenacity.

Episode Highlights:

Susan shares her early involvement in insurance, spending time at age 6 in her father's agency and getting her license at 18 to work part-time. (2:32)

Susan mentions that the availability of online groups and communities allows us to easily access information and get quick responses to our questions, making us fortunate in the digital age. (9:47)

Susan explains that the ability to be a leader is partly innate and cannot be taught, so leaders need to protect their team and establish processes to filter out those who may not be a good fit for the organization's health and success. (14:46)

Susan discusses the importance of self-care and maintaining a positive mindset to avoid bringing others down. (18:06)

Susan shares that she finds time blocking helpful for managing multiple tasks and interruptions in a busy work environment. (22:44)

Susan discusses the importance of finding balance and complementary skill sets, even if you only have one other person on your team. (26:14)

Susan explains the importance of attending conferences, networking, and being open to new ideas and strategies to grow and improve professionally. (32:17)

Susan mentions that the key to success is being authentic, without trying to be someone you're not. (39:15)

Susan encourages women to reach out and connect with others in their industry, as they will likely find support and inclusivity. (42:41)

Key Quotes:

“As leaders, we can try to protect our team and help as much as possible. But I don't think that's something that you can teach.” - Susan Wathen Johnston

“That’s what I like too about going to conferences, meeting new people, getting on the Facebook groups is getting other ideas hearing what works for other people, and trying something that you may not have ever even thought of.” - Susan Wathen Johnston

“If anyone's struggling in our industry through this time, they need to just reach out.” - Susan Wathen Johnston

Resources Mentioned:

Susan Wathen Johnston LinkedIn

Susan Wathen Johnston Facebook

Countryside Insurance Agency, INC

Contact Teresa Kitchens

Sterling Insurance Group