About
I have more than 30 years of corporate experience, primarily in the insurance industry. I started in the industry as an agent with Farmers Insurance, where I quickly learned the business while finishing my degree at the University of Michigan. After earning sales rewards in my first year, Farmers asked me to join the company as an employee, helping other agents understand and sell their commercial products.
I spent 30 years with Farmers in various roles and cities, moving from Michigan to Ohio to Tennessee before finishing my career with them in Southern California. I was a natural at marketing and learning and development, always bringing in those skills, even if the job didn’t require it. I taught agents about products, sales, processes, procedures, and contracts. When I developed a flood class in California, I also registered as the only L&D professional for the state so my course could be approved for CE.
My last ten years at Farmers was spent as the Director of Community Relations where I helped launch and oversee the corporate 501(c)3, raised millions of dollars for charity and recruited thousands of volunteers to donate their time at local events and walks.
My husband and I moved back to his native Nashville in 2018 to be closer to family. After moving, I spent five years at a local MGA, leading their marketing and training efforts. I led the company’s rebrand project and helped launch a new website and app, streamlined external communications, increased followers on social media and developed the corporate ESG policy. I also curated insurance and soft skills training, including coaching, mentoring, career development, and DiSC. I increased employee engagement through Best Places to Work Surveys, founded the DE&I committee, spotlighted employees monthly and developed partnerships with non-profits, such as the American Red Cross.
I am the current board chair for the American Red Cross Nashville Chapter and host regular blood drives in my neighborhood. I also donate platelets. I am the president of the Mid-Tennessee CPCU Chapter, which is focused on providing insurance education and mentoring to members. Additional skills include organizing events, fundraising, building homes (for charity), leading teams and more.
I have been married for nearly 30 years and currently reside in College Grove, TN with my husband, two dogs and two cats. I enjoy cooking and have a side hustle as a Pampered Chef consultant. I also enjoy mountain biking and pickleball.
I recently launched DDL Consulting, where I’ll focus on leadership development through one-on-one coaching with high level and emerging leaders, facilitate workshops, including DISC, and mastermind sessions with groups. My goal is to help business leaders overcome challenges and grow their businesses.
Education, Certifications, and Boards:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), English, University of Michigan
- Insurance licenses: TN P&C, FL E&S, TX MGA
- Everything DiSC Certification
- Board Chair, American Red Cross of Nashville
- President, CPCU Mid-Tennessee Chapter
Areas of Expertise
- Marketing
- Training
- Communication
- Public Speaking