Vroom Vroom!

Thanks to the University of Houston Bauer College for posting this outstanding video on our visit. We had a great time and were thrilled to be able to give back to the students.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOodkxQVxaQ

On your holiday list: a Home Inventory (what it is and why you need one)

(helpful tips from Iscential Managing Agent, Drew Stewart) 

The holidays are here and unfortunately this time of year is prime for theft and other crimes. Take some simple steps to help protect your home and belongings in case the unthinkable happens. Let’s start with a Home Inventory.


What is it?
A Home Inventory is simply a list of the items in your home: what you own, how much it's worth, and your ability to prove possession/ownership (receipts, photos, etc.).

What do I include?
EVERYTHING! The first items that come to mind are usually the most obvious: furniture, appliances, electronics, artwork, jewelry and treasured keepsakes. But don’t forget the occasionally overlooked draperies, carpets, toys, clothing, etc. Every item in your home needs to be documented. Video tapes, photographs and receipts are invaluable records in a home inventory as well.




Whew… everything?! This seems like way too much effort… when will I ever use this?
Sure, documenting the contents of your home may be a little time consuming, but having this information is critical when filing an insurance or police report. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did it if you ever need it.

If a natural disaster or burglary occurs, your insurance company will require documented proof of possessions that are stolen, damaged or destroyed. They will want an itemized list that is not easily created from memory, especially during or after a crisis. And they will ask for proof of your possessions. A Home Inventory will also help you determine the amount of insurance coverage you need.


How to Start
Take a blank sheet of paper and make a list of the contents in your favorite room from memory. When done go to the room and grade yourself. If you got more than 50% correct, then consider yourself better than most. Here’s a few ways to help you create a Home Inventory:

Pictures/Video:
The first thing a claims adjuster will ask you is what is missing. The second question might be can you prove it. Someone much wiser than I once said that a picture is worth a thousand words. I believe the easiest and best way to inventory your house is to take detailed pictures or a video. Not only can you tell what is missing but you also have proof that you had it.

Websites:
There are websites that allow you to enter your information and store it securely. The Insurance Information Institute has a good one, www.knowyourstuff.org.

Pad and Paper:
Nothing says your inventory has to be fancy. You can always do it the old-fashioned way on notebook paper.


Tips

1. Keep receipts/appraisals for expensive items

2. Keep your inventory in a safe location. E-mail a copy to yourself and your insurance agent, store it in a safe deposit box, at your office or another secure location.

3. Update your inventory every year and when you make a major purchase

4. Do it now, don’t wait till disaster strikes!



Drew Stewart manages Iscential’s Memorial location. He has more than 10 years with the firm, is a Certified Financial Planner and MCE instructor. To contact him, call 713.468.5331.


Information from Iscential Agent, Drew Stewart, The HBH Group (Keller Williams) http://homesbyhomer.yourkwagent.com and the Insurance Information Institute www.knowyourstuff.org.

Iscential Pulls in Awards for Being one of Houston's "Best (+ Brightest!) Places to Work"

We're clearing off some space to add two new awards for being top in places to work

HR Assistant, Elizabeth Olatunbosun

Iscential was recently honored by the Houston Business Journal as one of the 2012 Best Places to Work in Houston, and by the National Association for Business Resources as one of the “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For”.

"We've received hundreds of awards over the almost 20 years we've been in business," says Iscential CEO Warren Barhorst. "But these awards, the ones that come from employee input, are the ones that mean the most to us. To know that our employees think so highly of us, and really think of Iscential as a 'Best Place to Work', that is just priceless."

And in an economy where jobs are often few and far between, Barhorst says that Iscential is looking to hire.

"We're always looking for engaged employees to help us create a culture of excellence," continues Barhorst. "These employees make the most of every day, every opportunity, and truly make coming to work a pleasure for everyone.”

Based on survey results from current employees, the Houston Business Journal honored 78 companies this year. For the full list, visit: http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/news/2012/10/15/hbj-reveals-2012-best-places-to-work.html

The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For™ competition identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in their human resource practices and employee enrichment. This program helps to create meaningful change in companies that improve costs, operations and efficiencies. For more information, visit: www.101bestandbrightest.com

Self-proclaimed "Insurance Nerd", Drew Stewart Celebrates 10 Years with Iscential

Drew Stewart runs Iscential's Memorial office in Houston and has built his career on his passion for helping and educating his clients.


Financial planner. Risk manager. Insurance agent. Successful business owner before age 35. Drew Stewart is all of these, and this year he celebrates 10 years with Iscential.

Stewart graduated from Texas A&M University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Economics. In 2000, he joined Houston financial advisory firm, Olde Brokers. 

"I likened it to a black hole," he says of the office following the post-9/11 market collapse. "The staff went from 20 to only 4 or 5 people. I knew I had to find something else, and quickly."

He laughs reminiscing that this was the first time he ever looked for a job online, but Stewart came across an interesting opportunity on Monster.com: an opening at a local Nationwide Insurance agency.

"Insurance sales to me was an old dude in a bad polyester suit," Stewart jokes. "Until I met Warren and he made it look cool." 

Warren Barhorst currently runs the largest Nationwide Insurance agency in the United States. He started his own firm (then known as the Barhorst Insurance Agency) in 1993 and built it from 2 employees to more than 100 and from one location in Jersey Village to 26 across the state. Barhorst brought Stewart on board in 2002 as a Certified Financial Planner. Stewart quickly found adding insurance products and risk management services were ways to diversify. And diversification was crucial to someday owning his own business.

"Becoming a business owner was never part of the plan, but neither was selling insurance," Stewart says. "But being your own boss and having an unlimited income potential… I wouldn't trade it for anything.”

Stewart runs on an intense passion for the business, and for helping others. He still remembers his first claim: a call that his client's home had burned-down home just after midnight on New Year's Eve. 

"It was a terrible situation, but I felt like I was part of the most noble profession in the world when we were able to show up with a check, even before daylight. We told them we'd make things right and we did."

Stewart's love for "all things insurance" has gained him the nickname, "Insurance Nerd", and it's evident that he wears it with pride. 

"I just love to talk about insurance!" he says with a huge grin. Stewart views his job as not just selling products, but educating his clients. "It's exciting meeting new people and working together to make sure they have the coverage they need," he says. "My clients leave my office knowing more about insurance than when they came in. They know what they need, what they don't need, and most importantly, why. That's part of the job I love the most.”

Stewart also teaches Continuing Education classes to local Realtors, including courses on homeowners, flood insurance, investment homes and more. 

"Warren [Barhorst] taught me a lot about the importance of educating outward and earning the role of a trusted advisor. I want to be a resource to my clients, not just an agent they talk to maybe once a year. I'm here for them whenever they have questions, and I make sure they know that."

Stewart's office is located at:

Iscential Memorial
9225 Katy Freeway, Suite 112
Houston, TX 77024
713.468.5331

Congrats Drew - thanks for all you do!

Iscential & Nationwide Insurance to Sponsor Vic Schaefer’s Coaches of Character Golf Classic in College Station, Texas

Iscential and Nationwide are title sponsors of annual golf tournament to benefit the Hope Pregnancy Center, a ministry near and dear to Iscential CEO, Warren Barhorst’s heart.

Hope Pregnancy Center of Brazos Valley and Vic Schaefer are announcing today the companies Nationwide and Iscential as “Partners with Hope” sponsors for the Vic Schaefer’s ‘Coaches of Character’ Golf Classic.

“We are truly honored to sponsor this year's Coaches of Character Golf Classic, benefiting the Hope Pregnancy Center”, said Iscential CEO, Warren Barhorst. “This is a tremendous ministry that gives women an opportunity to discuss both sides, to see the alternatives and how it will impact their future. They receive education, guidance and support that they might not otherwise have.”

“My son was born while my wife and I were still students at A&M [Barhorst also played football for the University]. Coach Sherrill actually had to cut me some slack for most of the off-season workouts because I was busy with ultrasounds and doctor’s appointments. Instead of heading out with the team after practice, I had to run to Lamaze classes. It was hard, no doubt about it—but I wouldn’t have changed a thing. I look into all three of my kids’ eyes and can’t imagine what my world would be like without them. My family is blessed because of the decisions we made.”

Executive Director Tracy Frank commented on Warren Barhorst’s statement by saying, “Mr. Barhorst volunteered to be part of something very special when he tried out for the 12th Man Kick Off Team. The volunteers of Hope Pregnancy Center embody that same spirit. No experience is required to serve, just the drive, motivation and perseverance to be a part of a very special team. We are thankful for his support.”

Coach Schaefer has selected Jackie Sherrill for this year’s honoree. Sherrill is a legend in the college football coaching ranks. Last August he was inducted into the Mississippi State University Sports Hall of Fame to go along with his inclusion in the Texas A&M and University of Pittsburgh shrines. He has also been selected to the Cotton, Gator and Independence Bowl halls of fame. Coach Sherrill created the 12th Man Kick Off team whose story is documented in the book “No Experience Required”.

The tournament will be held on Monday, October 1 at the Pebble Creek Country Club in College Station, Texas.

Iscential, Brings Dreams to Reality
Iscential Owner and CEO, Warren Barhorst initiates internal program that encourages his employees to harness their dreams and make steps to bring them to fruition.

If you ask Warren Barhorst to name one of the hardest parts of being the CEO of a successful risk management and insurance agency is, he'll quickly say: "Motivating my team to follow their dreams."


Barhorst has been writing down his goals and following his dreams since he was young. His visions of success have led to his current status as the largest Nationwide Insurance agency in the US. Barhorst wholeheartedly believes that these invisible dreams are powerful in creating ones destiny. In fact, the first chapter of his book "Game Plan" is about this very concept: Hold On To Your Dreams. He encourages his readers to visualize and write down their dreams and goals and to revisit them often to stay on track toward making them a reality.


As much as he advocated this practice, Barhorst found that his team wasn't as passionate about it as he was. Then he found Matt Kelly's book "Dream Manager": a business parable about how companies can achieve remarkable results by helping their employees fulfill their dreams. Barhorst quickly brought the idea to his agency and initiated his own "Dream Manager" program. The main component, an actual "Dream Manager" was needed, and he had only one person in mind that could fill that role.


Pat Smith, an impactful teacher from his high school days, was brought on board as Iscential's first Dream Manager. Now retired, Smith taught in Houston's Jersey Village area for 8 years, and was a masters-level counselor for 18 years. In her study skills classes—and one that stood out for Barhorst in particular—she taught the importance writing down dreams and goals.


Barhorst presented the program to his team and introduced Smith as the first official Dream Manager. Appointments were quickly made and Smith began seeing employees on a daily basis. Within six weeks, employees engaged in the Dream Manager program went from 4 to 14. The program brought individuals who might not have the time or resources to talk to a counselor or other advisor this benefit, right to their place of work and at no cost.


As Iscential's Dream Manager, Smith acts as a counselor, guide, and often just a listening ear and open mind for employees. She assists individuals in making first steps in achieving their dreams, which have included commitments to fitness programs and diets, handling household budgeting and paying off debt, travel goals, and even how best to deal with difficult people.


"The dreams are both far-reaching and practical," says Smith. "In my role, I provide support and help map out the best path, but I expect accountability and personal responsibility from the individual, as only then will they be able to realize their dreams."


"In Warren's [Barhorst] book, he says that you must 'walk toward your dreams daily in order to make them a reality'", says Smith. "We're doing that at Iscential. We're bringing dreams to the forefront where they should be.”

Iscential Takes on Rising Heath Care Costs & Challenges Employees to Make Small Changes to Better their Health

"A Better Me. A Better We." is the mantra Iscential hopes to instill in its team members as it faces another bump in the cost of its employee health benefits package.

Tired of seeing the cost of his employee health benefits continuing to rise, Iscential owner and CEO, Warren Barhorst decided it was time to make a change. A company-wide health initiative was developed and introduced to the team members: the Iscential Wellness Project—"A Better Me".

"A Better Me" will promote education about health and overall wellness, with a focus on small choices that have a big impact on critical issues such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity.

"Heath insurance premiums are determined by age, sex, personal and family history, potential for future loss, and expenses and profit for the insurance company," states Barhorst. "The only thing we have control over is the ‘potential for future loss’, so making smart, healthy choices is our only option for affecting our outcome and creating a better, longer and happier life."

For Barhorst's small business, the rates for individual health insurance have increased by 65% in the last three years. For families the increase has been 57%. For some, the cost is just too much and they are forced to forgo health insurance for themselves and their families.

"We can turn this around and make health insurance more affordable for everyone," says HR Administrator, Elizabeth Olatunbosun. "We want to challenge our employees to make an emotional decision to change. We all have a stake in this and, as a company, we're committed to supporting our team in making their health a top priority.”

In support of its Wellness Project, Iscential designated a "Health Czar" who will lead an internal effort to promote health and better living. Kitchens and common areas are now stocked with healthy snack options. In a basket that used to hold candy, a community "Health Library" offers magazines and books on diet and exercise. Daily information is distributed to help educate employees on how to make quality choices in terms of physical and mental health.

"I want to report back next year that the changes our employees made helped decrease the cost of our health benefits,” says Barhorst. "I'm passionate about this and want people to see the good that comes from making healthier choices so it becomes second nature, a lifestyle."

Iscential is ready for the big one. Flood that is.

And we want to make sure you are too.

Flood season is here, and the Houston area is making up for last year's drought with some massive rains. Iscential CEO, Warren Barhorst is stressing to his clients and the community the importance of knowing the risks of flooding, and offers tips on how best to be prepared.

"Long ago, we made a commitment to educating our clients, potential clients and all of the residents in our region about the destructive power of floodwaters, whether they are the results of hurricanes or thunderstorms," says Barhorst. "The reality is that practically everyone—but especially everyone in the greater Houston area—is one big storm away from devastating floods that could wreck your homes and wreak havoc with your family's physical and financial well-being."

"We all need to be better educated about how to protect our families and our assets from floodwaters," Barhorst continues. "Whether you purchase a policy with us or not, we want to ensure that you are equipped with the latest information to prepare yourself and your loved ones for the dangers of dealing with floodwaters."

Barhorst offers a few important facts:

Just six inches of rapidly moving water can knock an adult down

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and stalling
• A mere two feet of water can float a large vehicle, even a bus.
• One-third of flooded roads and bridges are so damaged by water that any vehicle trying to cross stands only a 50% chance of making it to the other side
• In flash floods, waters have been known to rise as much as 30 feet, making flash floods the number one weather-related killer in the country.
• During a flooding event, there is a tremendously increased danger of contracting bacterial, viral and protozoan diseases, as floodwaters can be contaminated with sewage, decaying animals and human remains.

Barhorst also states that, according to documented insurance statistics, U.S. homeowners have a 9 percent chance of suffering fire damage to their home during the course of a 30-year mortgage, while they have a 26 percent chance of incurring flood damage. "And if you live within 100 miles of Houston—in any direction—your chances of experiencing flood damage is exponentially increased," Barhorst said.

Barhorst encourages everyone to review their current insurance policies and make sure they are fully protected.

"We would consider it an honor to provide flood insurance for you and your family, as well. If your home is not covered by flood insurance, you are gambling with your financial future. I cannot over-emphasize the importance of flood insurance, and we at Iscential would love to talk to you about your particular needs. But even if you don't go with us, please, please give serious consideration to acquiring flood insurance. You need it. We all need it."

For more information, or to find out if you're protected, call today:  713.856.5533; or email peaceofmind@iscential.com

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) website has more information on flooding: floodsmart.gov

Job Opportunities for Military Veterans

Iscential Implements a Special Recruiting Program

for Military Veterans 
With sights set on military veterans looking for employment, Houston-based insurance agency, Iscential introduces a specially designed program to help them get started with a career in insurance.

Iscential is introducing a recruiting program that targets men and women who have served in the military and who, now out of the service, may be looking for employment. The agency has developed a specialized plan and career opportunities for those interested in a future in the insurance industry.

“Although the economy is showing some signs of recovery, there are still fewer jobs than the number of people looking for work,” states Iscential Director of Recruiting, Jim Maranto. “Military personnel returning from active duty are going to be faced with another hardship—finding gainful employment. We want to help.”

Working closely with organizations like Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), and the Veterans Affairs Services (VA) Iscential is reaching out to veterans to make them aware of opportunities at the agency and in insurance industry.

“It takes dedication, discipline and hard work to be successful in this business, and these are things that the men and women of the military are very familiar with,” says Maranto.

With offices in the major metropolitan areas of Texas, Iscential offers career opportunities to returning veterans across the state. “The difficult part is getting this information in front of veterans so they will know about the opportunities. That’s where the TVC, the VA and the TWC come in,” states Maranto.

These agencies work with the men and women returning from active duty to help them find jobs once they complete their military service. Information about Iscential and the career opportunities has been provided to these agencies so they can direct interested parties to the agency.

“We hope to be reporting our first success story for this program in the very near future,” says Maranto.


For more information, contact Iscential:
713.856.5533

jim.maranto@iscential.com

Iscential kicks off summer with a chance for our customers to win a cruise for two just for spreading word to friends and family

Iscential recently rolled out a new referral program that will run until September 30. Grand prize? A cruise for two!

The marketing for "Connect & Cruise" states "Your reward for knowing people (yep, it's that easy)" and asks Iscential customers to refer their family and friends for a chance to win a cruise for two. Referred customers will need to have property & casualty insurance proposal run by 5:00pm CST on September 30. There is no limit on the number of referrals a customer can make, so start now and get as many referrals as you can for a better chance at the prize!

"It really is a win-win promotion for us and our customers," states Marketing Director, Angie Goings. "It's our chance to offer up a really big 'thank you' to our customers and, hopefully get some new ones along the way."

Iscential will be doing most of its marketing of this promotion via social media.


For more information:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Iscential

Twitter: @Iscential

713.856.5533

CEO, Warren Barhorst featured on cover of Smart Business magazine!

A must-read article and a glimpse inside how Warren drives Iscential's success.
The Iscential team is so proud - great job, Boss!!

http://www.sbnonline.com/2012/06/wexarren-barhorst-changes-mindsets-through-passion-and-belief-to-see-employees-as-assets/?full=1&edition=houston-editions

Big News for Iscential's Bedford Distribution Sales Center


Leading the Team: A New Sales Manager

Iscential is pleased to announce that Michael Lockhart has joined the agency as the Sales Manager for the Bedford Distribution Sales Center (DSC).

Lockhart brings more than 23 years of experience in the insurance industry, with a focus on selling Property & Casualty and Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance products in many different industry environments across a multi-state sales territory. His accomplishments include leading an agency to 1000% premium growth in two years, being awarded Top Producer for six consecutive years, and being ranked in the top 5% of Texas agents and in the top 25% nationally.

As Sales Manager, Lockhart will be responsible overall agency development in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex area. He will lead the current staff of 20 and build it to fit the insurance needs of the surrounding communities.

Opened in June 2011, the Bedford DSC was a major milestone in Iscential's growth strategy. Designed to provide insurance and financial services to individuals, families and businesses in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, the Bedford DSC is the first of three such operations planned to penetrate the large Texas markets of Dallas/Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.



Professional Development via Toastmasters International

Iscential is also proud to announce that DSC Agency Development Specialist (ADS), Matthew Perrins recently completed the requirements for the Competent Communicator award through participation in Toastmasters International's communication program. This program helps participants improve their speaking and leadership skills in a club environment. Perrins joined Iscential in October 2011 and currently holds licenses in Property & Casualty, Life, Accident and Health Insurance. Perrins says that growing up as a military brat and constantly moving from country to country, or state to state, helped him in his current sales position. "Growing up in that environment helped form my mindset of, 'the worst thing they can say is no, but the next one might say yes'," he says.

A great lesson for not only sales professionals, but everyone!


Welcome aboard Michael and congratulations Matthew!!

Insurance Agent and Author, Warren Barhorst, to Present "Game Plan", his Book on Successfully Starting or Growing Your Insurance Agency at National Conferences

Barhorst is taking his highly acclaimed book and experience on the road to educate other entrepreneurs at the Texas Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) Insurance Expo in Waco, Texas and the 2012 Million Dollar Round Table Annual Meeting in Anaheim, California


He owns the largest Nationwide Insurance agency in the nation. Awards line the halls and walls of his Houston headquarters, both from his successful insurance practice and his years playing football as part of Texas A&M's 12th Man Kickoff Team. But what Warren Barhorst enjoys most is teaching others. Meeting with fellow entrepreneurs, dreamers, and visionaries and helping them grasp their dreams and take steps toward making them a reality.

CEO of Iscential (Barhorst recently changed the name from Barhorst Insurance Group), Barhorst will present his book, "Game Plan… The Definitive Playbook for Starting or Growing Your Business" at two upcoming national conferences. This straight-talking, no-nonsense business guide stands out with its inspirational stories, actionable examples and overall humor.

"This isn't a book about selling insurance," assures Barhorst. "It's an engaging, challenging, inspiring and entertaining entrepreneurial blue print that will help the reader take control of his or her business future. It's about dreams and how to actually step up and do what it takes to make them your reality.”

Sponsored by Renovo Partners LLC and Insurance Agent Net, Barhorst will present at the following conferences:

Texas PIA Insurance Expo 2012
May 17-18, 2012
Waco Convention Center, Waco, TX


2012 Million Dollar Round Table Annual Meeting
June 10-13, 2012
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA
#MDRT2012


In addition to his conference presentations, Barhorst offers his readers help, at no additional charge, on Game Plan's website (www.gameplan.com). The site also includes articles, examples and resources that address specific issues.

For more information, follow Warren and Game Plan
View book promo here

Iscential Teams with Nationwide Insurance and SafeWay Driving Centers to Display NASCAR Show Car at Local Schools

As part of its sponsorship of the NASCAR Nationwide Series, Nationwide Insurance brought the high-speed action to its local agents. Iscential, in conjunction with SafeWay Driving Centers, hosted the NASCAR Nationwide Series show car at two local schools on April 4 and 5. More than 800 kids, faculty members and guests were provided the opportunity to see the excitement of NASCAR first hand.

"When we get the Nationwide Show Car, it's always a big deal and really a lot of fun," says Iscential CEO Warren Barhorst. "The simulator gives the driver a score so the kids can compete against each other. They love it, it's almost like a big video game. These kids definitely had a great time." 

Barhorst adds, "The real take away from these events is the importance of safe driving. This is a critical time for families as their children venture out on the road. Nationwide and SafeWay share a passion for improving the skills of all drivers and of promoting safe and responsible driving, especially to teens.”

The Nationwide Show Car made pit stops at Houston Christian High School and Memorial Middle School. Famed NASCAR driver (and Memorial Middle School graduate), Brad Coleman was on hand both days to greet the kids, sign autographs, and impress upon them the importance of driving undistracted. 

To further its commitment to safe driving, Nationwide has maintained a long and successful alliance with SafeWay Driving Centers, the largest driving school in the Greater Houston Area and Texas. SafeWay's exclusive partnership with Nationwide offers insurance discounts to students and their families after they successfully graduate from one of its centers. The two companies work together to promote and encourage safe driving for all drivers.

“I am Iscential” Reigns as Overall Theme of Iscential’s Corporate Kick-Off and Awards Weekend

CEO Warren Barhorst sporting
the mantra of the weekend

Iscential recently hosted its 17th Annual Kick-off Meeting and Agency Awards. The two-day event was held at the Omni Houston Hotel and Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant in Houston’s Galleria area.

In addition to kicking off the new year, the agency took the opportunity to formally introduce its new name and brand (Iscential). Team members attended an all-hands corporate meeting and were treated to a dynamic presentation about the history of the company and how it developed into the company it is today. The meeting featured new company mascot “Iscential Man” and wrapped with the entire team dancing and chanting, “I am Iscential”.

“We’re so excited to finally get the brand off the ground and out to our employees and the public,” says CEO Warren Barhorst. “It’s already gotten an incredibly positive response, not only from our employees, but from people just walking by and seeing the new logo. Everyone seems to like it and that’s very motivating for all of us.”

At the event, Barhorst delved deep into the topic of company culture and its importance on the success of any organization. Team-building sessions featured “out-of-the-box” activities including painting in one and, in another, teaming together to produce skits to illustrate the core values of the company: communication, integrity, objectives, respect, dedication, teamwork and attitude.

One of the weekend highlights was the agency’s annual awards dinner and ceremony. Top team members who walked away with awards included:

Top Contract Operative:  Lance Weeks

Top X-Date Operative:  Kelly McCartney

Top Appointment Operative:  Kelly McCartney

Top Quote Operative:  Casandra Massey

Top DWP Operative:  Phuc Dang

Top Life Operative:  Marilyn Ward

Top Commercial Operative: Jacob Jones

Top Telephone Ratio Operative:  Beth Devaney

Top Cross-Sell Operative:  Beth Devaney

Top Service Quality Operative: Shayla Funk

Most Cross Sells:  Team Fidelis

Highest Customer/Agent Satisfaction:  Team Memor

Highest Retention: Team Veritas

Account Team of the Year:  Team Fidelis

Commercial Line Leader:  DSC (Bedford, Texas)

Life and Financial Line Leader:  Barhorst Agency

Policies Per Household:  Bobby Talbott

Highest Retention:  Eugene Pryor

Growth Agency of the Year:  Gloriod Agency

Sales Agency of the Year:  Agency Yu

Agency of the Year:  Barhorst Agency (Houston, Texas)

Iscential's newest office in Bedford, Texas walked away
with an award for being the Commercial Line Leader

“We hope the weekend was full of fun and excitement and energized our team for a successful new year,” says Barhorst. “We absolutely could not be successful without our employees and partners. As they return to work and everyday life, I want them to remember that they are a part of something great, and that they are appreciated. We’ve come a long way and have an exciting future ahead, and they are a huge part of that.”


Iscential’s partners and event sponsors included: Nationwide Insurance, Nationwide Financial, Nationwide Flood Program, National Flood Services, Insurance Intermediaries, Inc. (III), Service King Collision Repair Centers, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, PURE Insurance, and ServPro Industries, Inc.

Texas Insurance Agency, Iscential, Will Kick Off New Year and Celebrate Agency Stars at 17th Annual Meeting and Awards in Houston

The agency is starting off 2012 with a new brand, a new mission, and awarding team members who raised the bar in 2011

Houston-based insurance agency, Iscential (formerly known as Barhorst Insurance Group) is planning its 17th Annual Kick-off Meeting and Agency Awards for February 10-11, 2012. The two-day event will be held at the Omni Houston Hotel and Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant in Houston’s Galleria area.

“This is my chance to formally thank our team for all they do,” says CEO Warren Barhorst. “We owe our success to these people:  our employees, their families, and our outside partners. We absolutely could not do it without them.”

Since 1994, Barhorst has hosted the annual program for his entire agency. Alternating between family and adults-only events, one thing remains the same:  he insists on hosting a venue that is exciting and outside the norm so it’s a memorable experience for all. This year, team members and their spouses will be treated to a full two days of relaxation, fun, and a little business at the Omni Houston Hotel in Houston’s famed Galleria area.

One of the weekend highlights will be the agency’s annual awards dinner and ceremony. Barhorst will honor his top team members in several categories, including:  Highest Customer/Agent Satisfaction, Top Service Quality, Most Cross Sales, Commercial Lines Leader, Life and Financial Leader, and Agency of the Year. The awards are highly coveted by the team members who work all year toward this goal.

In addition to kicking off the new year, the agency will be formally transitioning over to its new name and brand:  Iscential.

“We’re so excited about the Iscential brand and the meaning behind it,” states Barhorst. “We always strive to provide an extraordinary service experience for our customers. Our new branding position reiterates to our existing and future customers, as well as our business partners, that we are committed to serving them with excellence. That’s how it’s always been, but now we’re just putting a name to it.”

Iscential’s partners and event sponsors include:  Nationwide Insurance, Nationwide Financial, Nationwide Flood Program, National Flood Services, Insurance Intermediaries, Inc. (III), Service King Collision Repair Centers, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, PURE Insurance, and ServPro Industries, Inc.

For more information, call 713.856.5533 or visit iscential.com.

Texas Insurance Agency, Barhorst Insurance Group, Rebrands as Iscential

Here we go everyone! New year, new name... changes that will only better our service to our customers.
We hope you will join us as we celebrate our first year as "Iscential!"





Barhorst Insurance Group starts out 2012 with a new name, logo, and a renewed commitment to extraordinary customer service. The successful insurance agency will rebrand as "Iscential" and emphasize the critical importance of putting the customer first.

Houston-based insurance agency, Barhorst Insurance Group (BIG) is starting out the new year with a new name: Iscential.

The rebranding initiative includes a new name, logo and tagline that represent the company’s ongoing commitment to customer service. The tagline, “Trusted advice. Peace of mind” reflects the essence of the rebranding initiative and the company’s vision of providing an extraordinary customer service experience.

“We have a well-respected name and are a recognized leader in the industry,” states CEO, Warren Barhorst. “With the new branding, we’ll be able to better communicate the individual focus we give each and every one of our clients.”

BIG was founded in 1993 as a Nationwide Insurance agency and today is a captive hybrid agency representing more than 50 insurance carriers. In 18 years, the firm has grown to more than 100 employees and over 30 locations in Texas. The largest Nationwide Insurance agency in the U.S., BIG has been ranked among the nation’s 5,000 fastest-growing companies by Inc. magazine from 2008-2011. Texas Monthly magazine has listed the firm as one of the best places to work in Texas since 2006. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Flood Insurance Program recognized BIG as the National Flood Agency of the Year in 2005 and 2007, with a Special Recognition Award for Flood Education and Marketing in 2008. The company has been listed three times since 2005 among the “Aggie 100,” the 100 fastest growing Aggie-owned or Aggie-led businesses in the world. For his team's unique approach to insurance and financial services, Owner Warren Barhorst was honored as Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2008.

The new rebranding comes during an exciting time for the company. Earlier in the year, the company opened the first of its new “Distribution Sales Centers” (DSC) in Bedford, Texas. A major milestone in the overall growth strategy of the company, the center currently employs 20 team members that serve the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

“It’s the perfect time to rebrand the company,” said Barhorst. “It publicly demonstrates our commitment to our customers. We’re ‘taking the name off the door’, if you will, and centering it around the reason we’re in business: our customer.”


Welcome to Iscential!