Rolling Strong Convention 2021 - Issue 11

1

Do All Wholesalers Seem the Same?

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We call it placing you first.

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Proprietary Data & Analytics System that Helps Agents Win.

TOOLS INTEL

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Award Winning Content and Newsletter

Find someone to place you first.

CRCGroup.com/Texas 2

Award Winning Podcast

AUSTIN

HOUSTON

(512) 354-3815

(713) 532-4111

DALLAS (Tollway)

FORT WORTH

(866) 723-6510

(817) 344-7192

DALLAS (Walnut Hill)

SAN ANTONIO

(214) 363-7636

(817) 344-7192 08062021

Contents

On the Cover Zachary, Robin and Cameron Dillon rocking out in TWFG’s Inaugural Talent Show.

06-16

10-11

EVENTS AT THE HOME OFFICE

LOSING TWO LEGENDS

2021 TWFG National Agent Convention Video

SPECIAL FEATURE! Look for these blue boxes scattered throughout this year’s convention issue to read about some of our branch owners’ favorite memories and experiences with TWFG. We couldn’t have made it 20 years without each of you, so we are thrilled to see how TWFG has positively impacted your lives and your businesses.

From new babies to new promotions, and everything in between, there’s a lot to catch up on here at the Home Office!

19-24 WELCOME TO TWFG Welcome TWFG’s newest staff members and branch owners, and read about our new virtual branch offerings in this section.

Judy Rush

Jennifer Divine

As we say goodbye to two of our greats, Jennifer Divine and Judy Rush, join us in remembering the amazing years they spent with us.

26-27

28-29

COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

EXCELLENCE IN MARKETING

See how the Home Office and our branches are connecting with their communities and staying involved locally!

See how our branch owners are exemplifying the TWFG Branding and Marketing Guidelines.

Operations

31-61

HOLIDAY OFFICE CLOSURES

TWENTY YEARS OF TWFG INSURANCE

LABOR DAY

Monday, September 6, 2021

THANKSGIVING

Thursday and Friday November 25—26, 2021

CHRISTMAS EVE

Thursday, December 23, 2021

CHRISTMAS DAY

Friday, December 24, 2021

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Friday, December 31, 2021

With a special 20th anniversary message from Gordy, as well as a recap of our 2021 convention, you won’t want to miss this!

Share Your Photos on Social Media with #TWFGFamily 3

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Home Office Events Congrats on Your Promotion!

Chris Tsakiris Director of Inside Sales & Support

Chris Tsakiris has been promoted to director of inside sales and support. Chris joined TWFG with 20 years of experience in various roles in the insurance industry underwriting, policy services, marketing, and call center management with Velocity, GE Electric Insurance, Travelers, American Hallmark, and USAA. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Temple University and is a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). He joined us last year at the onset of the pandemic and hit the ground running. In the last year, he assisted in learning and deploying call coaching software, building metrics, and re-vamping our new branch training program with his team’s assistance. Moving forward, he is tasked with assimilating our Penguin agents, growing our inside sales and service team, and assisting with new eVo testing, training, and deployment.

Ben Davis Senior Lead Developer

Don Bartlett was promoted to senior lead developer for the eVo Development team. Don joined the eVo team in July of 2017 when a decision was made to build our development team for eVo in-house. He came to us from Insurance Technologies Corporation (ITC), where he worked for several years. Don has 20+ years of development experience and has been instrumental in helping us build the current eVo. He is currently heading up our team in tandem with our outside team to deliver a cloud-based and agile new eVo.

Don Bartlett

Sumana Kandula

Senior Lead Developer

Lead Developer Natalia Andrews has been promoted to underwriting team lead. Natalia joined underwriting in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a minor in marketing. She is a licensed property, casualty, and surety claims adjuster and worked as a property claims adjuster and in commercial underwriting for several companies like State Farm, Farmers, Humana, and ProAssurance, before joining TWFG. Natalia is a significant asset to the underwriting team.

Cynthia Vasquez

Natalia Andrews

Underwriting Team Lead

Underwriting Team Lead 6

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Welcome Back, Vanessa!

Ben Davis was promoted to senior lead developer for the IT team. Ben joined TWFG in December of 2015.

He came to us from the oil and gas industry, where he worked for ten years. Ben has a Bachelor’s Degree from the School of Engineering from Southern Methodist University. Upon his arrival, Ben became one of the core members of the Dover Bay development team.

He then used the knowledge gained from building the Dover Bay system and applied it to building Xenith for Twico. Ben has worked with the IT development team for the last five and half years and will help us continue to build out Xenith for Twico and get it ready for the commercial marketplace.

Sumana Kandula was promoted to lead developer for the IT team. Sumana joined TWFG in the summer of 2016 and was tasked with managing and maintaining the ARC system. Sumana has 20 years of programming/ development background, a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, and a Master of Science in Computer Engineering from South Dakota University. She has been instrumental in keeping ARC on pace over the last few years and has transitioned to the Xenith team, where she will now assist Ben Davis in managing the team and projects as we continue to add programs and products to our offerings.

TWFG Insurance would like to announce the addition of our new Vice President of Finance, Vanessa Palmer. Vanessa grew up in the Midwest but officially became a Texan after attending Baylor University. Vanessa graduated from Baylor with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and began her career in auditing for Deloitte & Touche in Houston, where she obtained her CPA license.

Vanessa Palmer

After her time at Deloitte, Vanessa found TWFG and spent three and Vice President of Finance a half years in TWFG’s accounting department before moving to the oil and gas industry. After spending over eight years in SEC reporting and Treasury/Finance at an Exploration & Production company, Vanessa has brought her talents back to TWFG! Vanessa and her husband have been married almost 14 years and have three wonderful boys, Caden, nine, and identical twins Blake and Brody, six. Vanessa loves shopping and fashion, but her favorite hobby is traveling! Vanessa’s children love baseball and golf, so when she’s not at work, you can often find her at the ball fields and golf courses.

Welcome back to TWFG, Vanessa. We’re so glad to have you!

Cynthia Vasquez has also been promoted to underwriting team lead. Cynthia attends the University of Houston and is a few weeks away from graduating with a Business degree. She joined TWFG in 2019 as an underwriter trainee and was promoted to an Underwriter in December 2020. She has her P&C agent license, and before joining TWFG, she was an account rep at State Farm for four years. Cynthia is a valued contributor to the underwriting team.

Jody Webb Hybrid ARM 7

With Jennifer’s leaving, an opening was created in the DFW territory. We are pleased to announce that Jody Webb has been promoted to a hybrid ARM to handle that territory. Most recently, Jody was an Inside ARM, working with agents in other states.

Before joining TWFG Insurance Services, Jody was a Branch Owner in Crosby, TX, and has worked in the insurance industry for 25 years. He was a captive agent for American National. During his time with American National, he was promoted to sales manager and then to a district manager.

Jody will continue to be based in our home office here in The Woodlands but manage the DFW territory with a balance of virtual meetings and face-to-face field visits.

Home Office Events New Arrivals Riley Kay Rogers

Mila Jade Vargas

Date of Birth: October 15, 2020

Date of Birth: December 17, 2020

Parents: Christina and Codey Rogers

Parents: Jennifer and Steven Vargas

Weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz.

Weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz.

Length: 20.5 in.

Length: 20 in.

TWFG Connection: Christina Rogers

(Inside Sales)

TWFG Connection: Jennifer Vargas

(GB Branch)

Keira Ingersol

Benjamin Sean Gonzalez

Date of Birth: March 3, 2021

Date of Birth: March 10, 2021

Parents: Amanda and Anthony Ingersol

Parents: Patricio & Debora Gonzalez

Weight: 8 lbs. 4 oz.

Weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz.

Length: 21 in.

Length: 20 in.

TWFG Connection: Amanda Ingersol

(Commissions)

TWFG Connection: Patricio Gonzalez

(Branch Owner)

Naomi Lizabeth Colegio

Fisher Cohen

Date of Birth: May 14, 2021

Date of Birth: May 18, 2021

Parents: Jesus & Sonia Colegio

Parents: Devin Woody & Ethan Cohen

Weight: 8 lbs. 10 oz.

Weight: 10 lbs. 5 oz.

Length: 19.25 in.

Length: 21.5 in.

TWFG Connection: Sonia Colegio

(CSR in BR607)

TWFG Connection: Devin Woody

(Operations)

I worked with Gordy back at American National, and joining Gordy at TWFG was the best decision I ever made. When TWFG first started, we had a limited number of carriers, but Gordy worked hard to provide us more access while allowing us to run our businesses the way we wanted.

– GARY WILKERSON

Greg Armstrong Video

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AGENTS OF

Solidarit y

We’re with you every step of the way Behind every Progressive agent is the support of more than 40,000 Progressive employees. It’s our mission to make sure you have the tools and resources you need to succeed.

From caring field sales reps to dedicated agent service teams, we’re ready to help you grow. Plus, we supplement your counsel and guidance with aroundthe-clock claims and customer service via our mobile app and online servicing.

Whether it’s sales, service, claims or anything in between, you’ve got a partner every step of the way.

TO LEARN MORE Search for us online at Agents of Progressive, Progressive Connect, or Progressive Appointment.

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21A00108.SD01 (06/21)

Farewell Judy & Jennifer!

Recent Retirements Judy Rush

Judy Rush Video

Kelly, Judy, MaryBeth & Katherine

Dinner with the ARMS

Judy Rush & Russell Knapp

Judy & Kelly at Mardi Gras 2010

Jennifer Divine & Judy Rush at the Twico Commercial Shoot

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Judy Rush & Alex Bunch

Judy Rush (Kudos for Caring) 08062021

Jennifer Divine

Jennifer Divine Video

2015 Convention

Jennifer Divine (2012)

Jennifer Divine at the Safeco Dallas Stars Game with branches

Jennifer Divine’s Retirement Party

Jennifer Divine with Lea Ann Leslie at the 2017 Convention

Retirement Party - Carlos Cantu, Jennifer Divine, Marilyn & Randy Caldwell

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Halloween at TWFG Our Policy Is Scaring Krysta Jones Marketing Coordinator/Content Writer Even though we could not hold our annual pot-luck lunch and chili cook-off, TWFG’s Home Office still managed to keep the Halloween fun alive in 2020. In, quite possibly, our most creative year yet, we saw terrific themes ranging from “Ghostbusters” to “Welcome to the Carnival.”

Individuals, pairs, and departments competed for a prize lunch at Main Event, complete with bowling and game time. The categories included Best Overall Individual, Best Duo/Trio, Most Creative and Best Themed Group, Best Incorporation of TWFG or Twico Into Your Costume, and President’s Choice.

The entrants were so impressive that the judges did not have an easy job; there was even a two-way tie in one of the categories!

Keep on reading to see the 2020 winners and a look at their trip to Main Event!

Terry Cauthen

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Halloween at TWFG And The Winner Is... #1

#1

MOST CREATIVE AND BEST THEMED GROUP Marketing – 2020: What A Drag!

#1

#1

BEST INCORPORATION OF TWFG OR TWICO INTO YOUR COSTUME ARMS – Competing Companies

#1

BEST DUO/TRIO

PRESIDENT’S CHOICE (TIE)

Sally Lobb & Kelly Bettencourt – Freddy vs. Jason

Operations – Welcome to the Carnival

BEST OVERALL INDIVIDUAL (CAN BE PART OF A GROUP TO WIN)

GB Branch – Christmas Wonderland

Mike Walt – “Ghostbusters”

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Prize Time

Tyler Noble & Abby Boyce

Alex Bunch

Marketing and Mike Walt

Abby Boyce

Krysta Jones

Halloween 2019 Winners (IT Department) at Main Event

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Home Office Events Winter Storm Uri

Betty Celebrates 20 Years with TWFG

Krysta Jones Marketing Coordinator/Content Writer

In February of this year, TWFG’s Home Office and many of our branches throughout the southern region experienced an unprecedented winter storm. Winter Storm Uri brought freezing temperatures to most of the United States, including gulf-coast states like Texas and Louisiana, which left electrical grids scrambling to keep up with the increased power demand.

Winter Storm Uri left millions in Texas without power for days while experiencing extremely low temperatures. This prolonged exposure to sub-freezing temperatures, along with mass power outages, had devastating effects across the state, primarily manifesting in frozen pipes and pipe bursts. While the Home Office and most of our branches were blessed to make it through the storm without damage, many of our Twico policyholders weren’t so lucky.

Twico customers filed more than 600 claims after the storm, many of which involved significant repairs. Luckily, Twico had recently refined its claims process, so more than 85% of those claims have already been resolved. “In Texas, we’re always going to have natural disasters; whether it be hurricanes, tornadoes, you name it…so we are constantly working to improve our claims process and make the experience better for our customers. Our goal is to move forward and build on where we’re at by using a claims process that propels us into the future, not back,” said Twico’s Product Manager, Chris Smith.

Unfortunately, customers across the region will feel the effects of this unexpected storm for years to come. As we have already seen, Uri is “triggering a hardening of the market, increases in pricing and deductibles, and underwriting changes. All things Twico is going to have to respond to,” said Founder and President of TWFG and Twico, Gordy Bunch.

While navigating unforeseen weather events and adapting to their aftermath will always be a challenge, TWFG and Twico continue to evolve and innovate to ensure we provide our clients the coverage and peace of mind they deserve.

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Betty Loick on one of the TWFG Cruises

“From day one, we have always ​ been family. It’s still very much a family atmosphere no matter how big we get.

”

Betty at the start of TWFG & celebrating her 20th anniversary

IS YOUR BRANCH ROLLING STRONG? If you have a story that you would like featured in upcoming issues of Rolling Strong, please send an email and photos to the Marketing Department at marketing@twfg.com.

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Finding solutions together.

Partnering with us is more than a standard business transaction. We’re committed to strategizing and investing in your success.

– Brokerage – Small Accounts – Underwriting – Global Risks – Group Benefits

amwins.com

Bring on the Future.

17

We’ve always helped employers and employees prepare for the unexpected. It’s who we are.

Growing their families. Planning for retirement. Saving for college.

Enjoying life free from worry. Knowing that an injury or illness won’t derail their plans. Our clients and their employees have dreams and we provide voluntary benefits to help them when they need it the most. That’s how we uphold their changing world.

ILLNESS | INJURY | DENTAL | VISION | LIFE

VISIT MY BOOTH TO LEARN MORE PATRICK BAKER | 979-777-9789 PATRICK.BAKER@COLONIALLIFESALES.COM HTTPS://FLIMP.LIVE/TWFGINSURANCE 18

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Welcome to TWFG! New Branches SEPTEMBER 2020

OCTOBER 2020

Javier Chavez, Matthew York, Brad Harrell, Manuel Prado, Samantha Kovach

Adeline Phan, Josh Miner, Minhuy Vo, Ruth Zires-Trujillo, Wendy Merrill, Alex Sweeney, Gene Gueniot Jr., Bonnie Holland, Renee Moffett

NOVEMBER 2020

DECEMBER 2020

Johnny Jackson, Clifton Calk, Salvador Serrano Jr., Elsa Morales, Roschunda Jackson, Lauren Franek

Parya Sobhani, John Fagan, Robin Dillon (not pictured)

JANUARY 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

Thy Le, Kirk Koster, Pamela Arteaga

Vanessa Castillo, Wade Earl, Cinthia Regino, Humera Jumani, Paul Deltado, Babu Thomas, Imee Jackson (not pictured), Kristin Jones (not pictured)

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Welcome to TWFG! New Branches MARCH 2021

MAY 2021

Malinda Rampy, James Bertholf, Scott Wilk, Richard Kleiner, Pedro Claudio, Julie Wong, Isaac Chambers

Tommy Dorsey, Upendra Dahal, Emily Zhu, Ingrid Walker, Ninh Truong, Isela Urias, William Xue, Shelbi Wilson, Mir Alikhan, Jansen Smith

APRIL 2021

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Laura VillaFuerte

Steven Garner

Hsiu-Lien (Angela) Kang

Sandra Ramirez

James Han

Michael Lewis

Nicholas Valenziano

Tania Keffer

Ronald Landeche

Jerry Searls

Dominic Martos

Leon Nguyen

Daisy Cantu-Morin

Emaad Ebeied

Zohreh Khalizadeh

Evelyn Alvarado

Rebecca Veach

Martha Orosco

Jarred LaComb

Jennifer Panos (not pictured)

Wai Don

Kevin Mitchell (not pictured) 08062021

JUNE 2021

JULY 2021

Harjit Singh, Sukhjinder Singh, Jeremy McGrath, Bridgette Martin, Calvin Martin, Errol Johnson

Jeremiah Johnson, Tingting Lin, Meiqin Wu, David Hodges, Uyen Nguyen, Anissa Davenport, Gerardo Romero

Denise and Tracy Davis (2005)

First year in Tomball (2010)

October 4, 2020, I celebrated my 17th year with TWFG. I started at The Woodlands Financial Group after leaving a management position with a captive company. After reviewing the industry at the time, it seemed like independent was the way to go. I reviewed options and found out Gordy had started an agency. I went in to talk with him, and off we went. The early days of onboarding were a box of computer discs and a small notebook of contacts and codes. We’ve come a long way!

When we started the agency, my husband was a student at the University of Houston, and we had three young boys. It was a challenge! Over 17 years, we have been provided with opportunities we would never have had elsewhere. My family has had opportunities to travel and stay in unique places. Our earliest trips were to agent conventions with shared rooms and pizza on the front steps at 2 a.m.; our latest was touring the White House and Washington DC. We have learned and grown, and this agency has allowed us to provide financial security for our family. Most importantly, it has all been done with family. Good times and bad, we’ve always had our TWFG Family to back us up!

– DENISE DAVIS

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Have clients starting construction?

Through US Assure – the exclusive administrator for the Builders Risk Plan insured by Zurich, TWFG agencies can secure robust “A” rated course of construction coverage for commercial and personal lines clients. There’s no minimum commitment, and policies are backed by a carrier known for its positive claims handling.

• • • • • •

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Find out how to access Zurich builders risk by visiting usassure.com/getting-started or calling (800) 800 - 3907.

usassure.com | (800) 800 - 3907 22

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Enter Policy Payout to win $250!!

Let your builders risk policies generate even more cash for you when you enter our exclusive sweepstakes running June 1 - August 31, 2021. You’ll receive a free entry each month just for signing up now.

Enter Today: 250payout.usassure.com 23

Welcome to TWFG! Acquisitions and Growth

Virtual Branches Krysta Jones Marketing Coordinator/Content Writer

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235 240

210 2 10

410 MGA M GA

2376 2415 2 415

TWFG has over 500 branches (July 2021) Virtual Branch Compilation

Throughout the last year of unprecedented challenges, TWFG Insurance did not waste any time when it came to pursuing its goal of reaching $100 billion in written premium. With the acquisitions of quite a few impressive agencies, TWFG has continued its momentum and is well on its way to reaching that goal.

As a result of the increased need for remote work options during the COVID-19 pandemic, TWFG recently introduced two new Virtual Agency models for prospective agency owners to consider. These new models provide agents across the nation the opportunity to work from home or other virtual environments with access to the industry-leading, back-office, and technological support needed to build a thriving business successfully.

In December of 2020, TWFG Insurance announced its acquisition of Penguin Insurance Services. Founded in 2012 in Milpitas, California, Penguin brought an additional 130 affiliated agencies and over $100 million in written insurance premiums to TWFG’s book of business. “The acquisition of Penguin helps us strengthen our position in California and aligns with our growth objectives to reach one billion in written premium,” said Gordy Bunch.

“After 20 years of steady growth, one thing we’ve learned is that every challenge we face is an opportunity to innovate and evolve,” said TWFG Insurance Founder and CEO, Gordy Bunch. “Adding the two new Virtual Agency options to our extensive offerings provides the flexibility, strength, and support needed to succeed as an independent agent in this new world,” continued Bunch.

We have also seen branch owners like Roger Larson in California, who recently acquired a book of business that significantly grew his branch size. “We’ve had subsequent acquisitions that have helped some of our agents acquire relatively decent size portfolios that, in some cases, double their size,” said Gordy Bunch. “If more of our agents are interested in acquisitions, we have our SVA lending platform, and we are still bringing our capital to closing. But they need to self-advocate and self-search for high-quality portfolios that will fit into their branch,” continued Bunch.

Since launching this new offering, we have already welcomed 17 new virtual branch owners! With both a “Limited-Service Agreement” and “Full-Service Agreement,” each virtual branch owner has had the opportunity to build their business with the level of support they need. Watch the video above to hear from a few of our virtual branch owners!

Through a combination of significant acquisitions and impressive branch growth, TWFG Insurance is on track to have one of its most successful years to date!

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Celebrating car culture includes protecting ‘90s and newer vehicles Qualifications for 90s and newer vehicles

Together we can fuel the car enthusiast lifestyle by offering the best protection for their vehicles, including those from the ‘90s right up to brand new.

1990s

2000s

2010s

Annual mileage*

Up to 5,000

Up to 5,000

Up to 5,000

Condition

Good

Very good or better

Very good or better

It’s easy to offer tailored coverage To offer coverage that includes Guaranteed Value®, in-house claims service and more, your client’s ‘90s or newer car should be: • an extra vehicle (not for primary use) in good condition • worth/have a minimum value of $3,500 • used for pleasure like shows, occasional drives to work, etc.

• protected, preferably in a garage, but carport/driveway allowed in many areas

(unless under active restoration)

• International travel with collectibles is covered, too

→ Not sure about a vehicle? We’re happy to help. Call 877.922.9701.

Policies underwritten by Essentia Insurance Company. Some coverage not available in all states. *See complete guidelines for more details. Acceptable mileage may vary by state. This is a general description of coverage. All coverage subject to policy provisions, exclusions, and endorsements. Hagerty determines final risk acceptance. Guaranteed Value & Hagerty are registered trademarks of the Hagerty Group LLC, ©2020 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Commitment to Community 2021 Woodlands Marathon February and March of 2021 saw an exciting event return to The Woodlands, TX, home of TWFG Insurance. The 9th Annual Woodlands Marathon took place over two weekends ending on Saturday, March 7, 2020, with around 8,000 registered participants in attendance.

The race, widely hailed as a success, was made possible by increased safety protocols to curb the spread of COVID-19.

These protocols included a new double-weekend format and staggered groups of runners to reduce the density of runners.

“The Woodlands did a great job managing the race. People were very respectful of one another and seemed very willing to honor the COVID-19 precautions to ensure a safe race for everyone,” said Julie Benes, one of our Home Office participants.

Krysta Jones at the TWFG Booth at the Marathon Expo

While runners were limited to one spectator each due to the safety protocols, friends and family lined the streets at various cheer zones to encourage athletes along the way. “It felt like a big leap forward in returning to normal life. Just seeing so many happy faces together in one spot lifts you up and is so encouraging,” said Benes.

Participants also had the opportunity to run for charities in the Charity Challenge. More than $140,000 was raised for and donated to charities and volunteer organizations. With a focus on health and safety, The Woodlands is looking forward to hosting more successful events like this one.

Best of The Woodlands Community involvement has long been an effective and fulfilling way for businesses to build relationships and foster trust within their local area while increasing their brand awareness. TWFG’s Home Office strives to be an active part of the community around us, so we were pleased to learn that residents in our area honored us with another Best of The Woodlands win this year.

including dining, entertainment, home improvement, and more.

We’re so honored to be among the winners.

Gordy’s branch wasn’t the only TWFG branch to earn recognition from its local community this past year. TWFG Kari Wadsworth Insurance won both Best Insurance Agency and Best Insurance Agent in Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette’s Best of Northwest Arkansas survey. “Although our brand new agency took a major hit like so many small businesses around our nation in early 2020, we are excited to open up strong a year later to continue serving, growing and showing our clients what the TWFG Insurance difference is,” said Kari Wadsworth in response to her win.

Gordy Bunch’s branch of TWFG Insurance won first place in the Best Insurance Agency or Agent category of Woodlands Online’s Best of The Woodlands survey. This year’s win marks TWFG Insurance’s eighth first-place win and ninth placement in this category.

The Best of The Woodlands contest is an annual online survey presented by Woodlands Online, a local publication, that takes place in February each year. Members of the local community vote for their favorite businesses from industries,

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We are so proud to see our branches staying involved in their local communities. If you’d like to share how your branch stays active locally, please email marketing@twfg.com.

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Grand Opening

Realtor Event

Babu Thomas

Robin Dillon

Branch Owner - Missouri City, TX

Branch Owner - Florida

Babu Thomas Ribbon Cutting

Robin Dillon at Weichert Realty

TWFG Thomas Insurance celebrated its opening in Missouri City, TX, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 1, 2021. The event was attended by Fort Bend County Judge Hon. KP George, Missouri City Mayor Robin Elakkatt, Council members Anthony Maroulis, Lynn Clouser, Stafford Council members Xavier Herrera and Ken Mathew, Fort Bend County Court at Law 3 Judge Juli Mathew, Precinct 2 Constable Darryl Smith, and Captain Nasir Abbassi from the Sheriff’s office.

My branch, TWFG Robin Dillon Insurance, was invited to our local Weichert Realtors’ Holiday Gathering. This relationship was not easy to come by; even after multiple donut & swag drops over two years, I continued to get turned away. Weichert had three insurance agents they frequently referred and felt that was enough.

Not one to give up easily, I began looking for more creative ways to get my foot in the door. I went to Facebook and found out Office Manager and Realtor, Connie Garcia, likes to bake…so do I! I then started dropping off home-baked items. This personal touch got her attention, and she finally invited me to meet her Realtors at their holiday party this past December! Never give up because persistence pays off!

Other prominent community leaders, local business owners, and clients also attended the event, where we provided snacks and drinks. After the ribbon-cutting, we had the chance to interact with the local community and explain the various insurance options and offerings to those in attendance.

Congrats to James Dunn!

Marcela & Rob Robinson

2020, my 10th anniversary with TWFG, was topped off with a S.T.A.R. Award from Travelers.

– ROB ROBINSON James Dunn (Lovecchio Insurance)– Top Producer of the Year award from Americas Insurance

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Excellence in Branding & Marketing Krysta Jones 20TH ANNIVERSARY MERCHANDISE

Marketing Coordinator/Content Writer The incredible growth TWFG has experienced over the last 20 years is, in large part, due to our hard-working branch owners and agents.

We wanted to thank our amazing branch owners who actively market their businesses and fully embody the TWFG brand by shouting out a few of their great marketing initiatives.

The following pages include just a few of the excellent examples of what our marketing team can help you and your branch accomplish.

From TWFG merchandise at our brand store to personalized door and window signage, local advertisements, and t-shirt designs, the TWFG Marketing Department is happy to help you design any materials you may need to help your branch succeed.

Plastic Tumbler

Cooler Tote

Bluetooth Speaker

Powerbank

Coaster

Padfolio

Tote

Mug

Shop at twfgstore.com or reach out to marketing@twfg.com for assistance with your branding and marketing needs. We look forward to working with you!

Steve Garner Video

Outdoor Signage 28

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Golf Sponsorship Hockey Team Sponsorship

Billboard

Window Cling

Outdoor Signage

Tent & Tablecloth

Indoor Signage 29

Weston’s Premier Home Package Includes:

What Weston has to offer: Personal Lines Multi-peril product

• Personal property replacement cost

Homeowners-Renters-Condo

• Special personal property coverage

Comprehensive Coverage

• Equipment Breakdown

Professional Prompt Claims Service

• Personal Injury Coverage • And More

Contact Us: CORPORATE OFFICE PO Box 142057 Coral Gables, FL 33114-2057 Toll Free: 800.262.1780 Fax: 888.862.7390

PAYMENT ADDRESS Weston Specialty Insurance Company PO Box 25176 Tampa, FL 33622

CUSTOMER SERVICE & UNDERWRITING Phone: 800.262.1780 TXCustomerService@weston-ins.com TXUnderwriting@weston-ins.com

CLAIMS PO Box 142057 Coral Gables, FL 33114-2057 Toll Free: 877.505.3040 Fax: 888.261.8507 Claims@weston-ins.com

OVERNIGHT MAIL Weston Specialty Insurance Company C/O Image Remit 14450 46th St. N, Suite 112 Clearwater, FL 33762

SALES & MARKETING Phone: 800.262.1780 AgencySupport@weston-ins.com

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Twenty Years of TWFG Krysta Jones Marketing Coordinator/Content Writer

A Message From Gordy

TWFG has something big to celebrate this year…20 years of successful growth and innovation! By ensuring that all of our TWFG family, employees, and customers alike, are always cared for, TWFG has managed to build a trusted name in insurance.

Branch Manager, Betty Loick, has been proud to be part of such a caring and inclusive company environment since she joined TWFG Insurance on day one. “From day one, we have always been family. It’s still very much a family atmosphere no matter how big we get,” said Loick while reflecting on her twenty years with us.

TWFG Insurance is looking forward to building on the last two decades of sustained growth by continuing our culture of caring and history of innovation. “Looking forward, we are excited to see how our new virtual branch model, inspired by the increased shift to digital platforms during the pandemic, will provide more flexibility and opportunity for prospective entrepreneurs within the insurance industry,” said Bunch while discussing what is next for TWFG Insurance. Please watch the video above for a special 20th-anniversary message from Gordy.

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Twenty Years of TWFG I loved being a TWFG agent. I had been an insurance agent for many years, and certain agencies would have quotas or a certain way the agency needed to be run. Gordy made it easy to create our own agencies at whatever size we wanted to be. It was a lot of fun in the early days of TWFG and we were a close-knit group. I appreciate all the years I had at TWFG; it was just time for me to retire in 2020.

– ANN MOORE

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L to R: Tatiana, Wendy and Catalina

I’ve had the pleasure of being part of TWFG Insurance for 18 years now. I started as an employee then bought out the branch from my former employer.

It’s been a blessing to work with TWFG. It has opened many doors for me, especially with the carriers we have access to. I specialize in transportation, and the carriers I have through TWFG have helped me reach my success!

My business is a blessing, and it provides security for my children’s future.

– WENDY GUERRERO

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Twenty Years of TWFG

Lisa Newman and Josh Dunaway

Christmas Party (2019)

My time at TWFG has allowed me to hire college interns regularly. In 2018, I hired UT Dallas student Joshua Dunaway. He did a GREAT job auditing my eVo database and ensuring we had all necessary documents added, correct policy terms, etc. Joshua had the support of our beloved office mascot, Kirby Bernard Newman. We lost our sweet Kirby B. last year in March at the ripe age of 17. He is dearly missed by the staff and our customers, who would often stop by the office to see Kirby.

Though the last year has been challenging, we were able to host a fun little office party with staff, friends, and customers in 2020. Who knew just 90 days later we would be in lockdown!

– LISA NEWMAN

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Brian Johnson Video

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Twenty Years of TWFG

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Twenty Years of TWFG

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2021 TWFG National Agent Conven Krysta Jones Marketing Coordinator/Content Writer

Thursday

Tony Voiron Video

After canceling our 2020 National Agent Convention, we were, of course, more than ready to start planning for 2021. This year’s convention also coincided with our 20th anniversary, so we knew that whether the event would be virtual, hybrid, or in person, we needed to go above and beyond to celebrate that momentous accomplishment!

After receiving the go-ahead from local leadership, we could host an in-person convention while also streaming it online for those who could not come in person.

Over 600 branch owners, agents, sponsors, and family members descended on The Woodlands from July 15 through July 17 for the special 20th-anniversary convention in a record-breaking year.

“Some of the convention highlights included local restaurant dine arounds, exotic car driving demos, and our annual awards gala acknowledging our top performers for 2019 and 2020,” said Gordy. “The gala night was topped off by our first-ever ‘TWFG’s Got Talent’ contest, where acts from the Home Office and our branches across the nation competed for trophies, cash prizes, and of course, bragging rights,” Gordy continued.

Throughout the following pages, you will see a recap of all the weekend festivities. We hope to see you all at next year’s convention!

 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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2021 TWFG National Agent Conven Thursday

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 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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Gala Night Festivities TWFG’s Got Talent

2021 TWFG’S GOT TALENT WINNERS

Each year we look forward to the festivities at the 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention.

This year, we decided to do something new and exciting, and it did not disappoint. Our first-ever TWFG’s Got Talent took place during our 2021 Awards Gala. Hopefuls were invited to send in their best submissions, from which 11 finalists were selected to perform.

With nearly every talent you could imagine, from ukulele players to singers to comedy acts, we got to see it all! The show began with Tara Quick’s beautiful rendition of Adele’s “Somebody to Love” and continued with one phenomenal act after another. Robin Dillon and her sons Cameron and Zachary wowed the audience with an incredible KISS-themed performance that got the whole crowd on their feet!

Getting the crowd involved paid off! The Dillons from TWFG Dillon Insurance took home first place and an impressive $5,000! Hang Trinh’s performance of Alicia Keys’ “If It Ain’t You” won our second place prize of $2,500, and Lea Ann Leslie took third place and a cool $1,000 with her fantastic version of “When I Fall In Love”! With all of the phenomenal performers at TWFG Insurance, we look forward to hosting more shows in the future!

#1

The Dillons

#2

Hang Trinh

#3

Lea Ann Leslie

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 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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Gala Night Award Winners Million Dollar Club Members 2019 NEW MEMBERS

Joe Vallot Karen Kaiser

Arlene Hong

Quyen Nguyenba

Gary Leslie

Waqar Khan

Miranda Englishbee Skip Bordelon

4TH YEAR

Ulrich & Ed DelaFuente

Albert & Stephanie Rivera

2ND YEAR

Daniel Oh Darrell Barfield & Tom Sowell

Alex Calvo

Dusty Olivier

Dana Tucker

Karen Sahota

Danny Moore

Katlyn Brenneise

Erin Hartgrove

Keith Tilghman

Grace Pan

Monica Pedraza

Kenny Bordman

Sean Meyers

Kim Casida Milligan

Tim Martin

Mark Brown Oscar Gonzalez

Viet Truong

Reggie Trosclair

5TH YEAR

Richard Ayala

Betsy Henslee

Ryan Welborn

Derek Benavides

Troy Tuomey

Jane Wang

3RD YEAR

Jimmy Goodwin

Altaf Ariff

John Robnett

Cherie Johnson

Judy Lam

Cindy & Kirk Balsley

Lea Ann Leslie

Cory Cannon

Melanie Head

Debbie Box

Shannon Hartgrove

Ed Sirafi

Sun Ha Hong

Joe Murphy 46

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6TH YEAR

9TH YEAR

Amber Pillsbury

Estela Portillo

Barbara Mitchell

Jennifer Vargas

Bentley Fitch

10TH YEAR

Brian Stamper Clay Hudnall

Chris Forman

Jeannie & Rick Burridge

Susan Stover

Jennifer Wragge

11TH YEAR

Joseph Vu Katie & Jeff Cannon

Brandon Mangum

Mike Underwood

Greg Armstrong

Paul & Jennifer Ly

Terry Cauthen

Shaileen Smith

Todd Golden

7TH YEAR Bobbie Gail Torres Harlivleen Kaur Lisa Newman

 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

Vlada Cruz

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Gala Night Award Winners Million Dollar Club Members 2020 NEW MEMBERS

3RD YEAR

Amber Boyd

Alex Calvo

Cameron Word & Brandon Wheeler

Dana Tucker

Cecil Huston

Danny Moore

Chandapillai Mathews

Erin Hartgrove

Chris Jenkins & Tim Plant

Kim Casida Milligan

Christi James

Lisa Wilson

Cornel Cernat

Mark Brown

Eddie Villarreal

Michael Rogers

James Dunn III

Ryan Welborn

James Holland

Troy Tuomey

Lester Coe

4TH YEAR

Lisa Schayot Matt Mancuso

Cherie Johnson

Michelle Burke

Cindy & Kirk Balsley

Paul Cucinella

Ed Sirafi

Robert Ortiz

Karen Kaiser

Rosie Cantu

Quyen Nguyenba

Spencer Anderson

Waqar Khan

Steven Castay

5TH YEAR

Tyler Crum

Albert & Stephanie Rivera

Wendy Patterson

Daniel Oh

2ND YEAR

Darrell Barfield & Tom Sowell

Arlene Hong

Don Oh

Kathy Dumanski

Katlyn Brenneise

Laudy Yazbek

Monica Pedraza

Miranda Englishbee

Sean Meyers

Skip Bordelon

Timothy Martin

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6TH YEAR

8TH YEAR

Betsy Henslee

Bobbie Gail Torres

Derek Benavides

Lisa Newman

Jane Wang

9TH YEAR

Jimmy Goodwin

Julio Manchego

Judy Lam Lea Ann Leslie

10TH YEAR

Norma Pineda

Estela Portillo

Shannon Hartgrove

Jennifer Vargas

7TH YEAR

11TH YEAR

Adrian Saman Barbara Mitchell

Chris Forman

Brian Stamper

Susan Stover

Clay Hudnall

12TH YEAR

Jeannie & Rick Burridge Jennifer & Paul Ly

Brandon Mangum

Jennifer Wragge

Greg Armstrong

Joseph Vu

Terry Cauthen

Katie & Jeff Cannon Randy Costa Shaileen Smith

 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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Gala Night Award Winners President’s Club Members 2019 NEW MEMBERS

6TH YEAR

Adam Ayers

Bobby Counts

Collette & Tim Biedenkopf

Buffy Hooper

Felipe Mejia

Darren & Natania Monteith

Jerry Offner

John Sparks

Noel Sanchez

Marilyn Randazzo

Ryan Guillory

Russell Knapp

2ND YEAR

7TH YEAR

Ann Tran

Mark & Cindy Bartlett

Dale Ratliff

8TH YEAR

Jeff Howard

Brian Johnson

JR Zamorano

Carlton Kon

Lane McKinney

Jenny Xu

Monika Mir

Kelly Lee

Phyllis Benjamin & Sara Hall

Rick Rogers

Reed Wilcox

Stephen Lovecchio

3RD YEAR

Tony Voiron

Lisa Knight Mark Morgan

4TH YEAR Denise Davis John & Gayleen Keefer Marilyn & Randy Caldwell

5TH YEAR Carlos Cantu Kerry Landry Roger Larson

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2020 NEW MEMBERS

6TH YEAR

Greg Brown

Betty Loick

Harlivleen Kaur

Carlos Cantu

James Dunn

Kerry Landry

Joe Murphy

Roger Larson

Kristin Jones

7TH YEAR

Marc Mancuso

Bobby Counts

Melanie Head

Darren & Natania Monteith

Nato & Angelica Guajardo

Marilyn Randazzo

Tara Arena

Russell Knapp

2ND YEAR

8TH YEAR

Adam Ayers

Mark & Cindy Bartlett

Collette & Tim Biedenkopf Felipe Mejia

9TH YEAR

Jerry Offner

Brian Johnson

Noel Sanchez

Carlton Kon

Ryan Guillory

Jenny Xu

3RD YEAR

Rick Rogers Stephen Lovecchio

Dale Ratliff

Tony Voiron

Jeff Howard Phyllis Benjamin & Sarah Hall Reed Wilcox

4TH YEAR Mark Morgan

5TH YEAR Denise Davis John & Gayleen Keefer

 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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Gala Night Award Winners Excellence in Customer Service

Watch Our 2021 Awards Gala

Heather Dornblum

Rookie of the Year 2019

2020

Amanda McDonald

Troy Turner

Milton Fregia

Julie Tidwell

The Excellence in Customer Service Award is an honor we look forward to presenting each year. We know that the vital work we do would not be possible without the fantastic customer service representatives that help our offices run smoothly each day. “We get awesome nominations from all of our branches for people that are really helping support our customers and our principal branch agents in ways that go above and beyond just doing your job,” Gordy explained at our gala.

Our finalists, Amanda McDonald, Heather Dornblum, and Julie Tidwell, each stepped up in their own way to provide the unmatched customer service that our customers have come to expect from TWFG. Through a year of personal strife and severe home damage from Hurricanes Laura and Delta, our winner, Amanda McDonald, managed to guide countless customers through the claims process. Her ability to show up each day and help others while facing trials of her own is a true testament to her excellence in customer service.

 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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Our Policy Is Caring Award TWFG Family Award

Barbara Mitchell

Damon Castillo

While reading through the customer service nominations, we had one incredible nominee that we knew deserved recognition but realized their actions went beyond the realm of customer service. This nomination led to a new addition to our awards line-up, the Our Policy is Caring Award. This branch owner’s commitment to caring for those around her while expecting nothing in return truly exemplifies what we mean when we say, “Our Policy is Caring.”

At TWFG, we have always valued family above all else. This year we had a nomination for the Excellence in Customer Service Award that sincerely embodied the spirit of our TWFG Family.

This nomination inspired our new TWFG Family Award. Our inaugural winner, Damon Castillo, went above and beyond the usual call of duty when a TWFG customer called him during Winter Storm Uri, desperate for help.

This customer was not his client, but she could not find her TWFG agent’s information and was unsure of how to proceed. Rather than provide a phone number and leave her to figure it out, Damon decided to guide her through the claims process. With limited information, Damon was able to track down her carrier and have them reach out to her to begin her claims process.

By helping a fellow TWFG branch owner’s client during an unprecedented storm, Damon showed just what it means to be a part of our TWFG family.

Barbara Mitchell’s nomination contained multiple examples of her dedication to those in need. One of Barbara’s first customers was a Jamaican immigrant who needed car insurance. While assisting him, Barbara learned he was living in the car that he was looking to insure. She immediately got to work helping him find housing, financial assistance and even provided him a place to shower. Her yearly “Operation Turkey Drop,” where she cooks and delivers Thanksgiving meals to clients in need, was another highlight. Barbara, thank you for bringing TWFG’s policy of caring to everything you do!

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Gala Night Festivities

 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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2021 TWFG National Agent Conven Family Day

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 To view and download more photos from 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention: Day One | Day Two | Gala Photo Booth | Awards Gala | Family Day

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We Are Family

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Thank You Sponsors!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! We can’t thank all of our amazing sponsors enough for helping to make our 2021 TWFG National Agent Convention and this issue of Rolling Strong happen!

DIAMOND

PLATINUM

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GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE • Allstate® • AmWINS® • Encompass • Foremost ® • Frank Winston Crum™ Insurance • Insperity • K2 Insurance Services • Nationwide® • SageSure™ • US Assure

EXHIBITOR • 3 Mark Financial • AFS/IBEX A Division of MetaBank® • Alinsco Insurance • AmTrust North America • Appalachian Underwriters • Berkshire Hathaway GUARD • Cabrillo Coastal • Colonial Life • Columbia Lloyd’s • Commercial Sector • Craig & Leicht • Embark General • Employers® • GeoVeraSM

• Hagerty® • Kemper Auto • Kemper Insurance • Legal & General America • Live Oak Bank® • Markel® Specialty • MexiPass® • Midlands Management • National General • Nationwide Financial • Normandy Insurance Company • Oak Street Funding® • Orchid Insurance • Philadelphia 61

• RT Specialty • SafePoint Insurance • Savascript Value Services • Scottish American Insurance • Secure 24 ADT • Specialty Insurance Managers • State Auto® • TAPCO • Texas Mutual Insurance Company • Travelers • Visit The Woodlands • Weston Insurance Management • Zywave

With 20 years of consistent, unprecedented growth, the future looks bright at TWFG. Whether you are a change agent, or an Agent looking for a change, there are many opportunities to become part of the TWFG Family – a family of fiercely independent, loyal, and passionate insurance professionals who are committed to serving their communities with integrity while creating secure futures for themselves and their families. So what are you waiting for?

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