In the ever-evolving world of insurance, a remarkable transformation is underway, driven by a group of dynamic women who are fueled by collaboration and redefining what success looks like.
Meet six women who mean business (and write it too!). We’re proud to spotlight an all-women team in RT Specialty's Workers’ Compensation department: Stephanie Guffey, Julia Vogel, Chelsea Schuster, Kati Vickery, Candice Elberfeld and Bridget Hicks-Heflin.
Their story is one of friendship, trust and unwavering support through life’s biggest moments. In the past two years, three of these women became first-time moms. As personal lives took center stage, their professional bond only grew stronger. Because of the trust they’ve built and the abundance of support they offer each other, this team continues to thrive, growing year after year.
“We’ve all been through seasons where life demanded more from us outside of work,” says Julia Vogel. “We jump in and keep things running so no one has to choose between being a good broker and being there for the people they love.”
It’s clear that their drive to succeed is deeply rooted in who they are…mothers, stepmothers, aunts, sisters, and friends. These women aren’t just doing their jobs; they’re lifting each other up.
Trust That Drives Results
At the heart of this team is a vibrant culture of collaboration where every member plays a crucial role in each other’s success. They understand that when one person rises, everyone benefits.
“With Stephanie, trust is the foundation of both our friendship and our business,” Julia shares. “We divide and conquer without ego. That mutual respect trickles down to the rest of our team, creating a culture where everyone’s ideas are valued.”
“Being around such strong, intelligent, and capable women is very empowering,” adds Chelsea Schuster. “We are more than colleagues; we are a community.”
The Unique Strengths Women Bring to Brokering
Women bring a distinct set of strengths to wholesale insurance; empathy, intuition and the ability to build lasting relationships.
“We negotiate with grit but also with a human touch,” says Stephanie Guffey. “Some of my closest professional relationships have lasted over a decade. That loyalty and trust give us a competitive edge.”
“Women excel at building and nurturing connections,” she continues. “We catch details others might miss and push until the job is done.”
Jim Mitchell, President of RT Specialty’s Workers’ Compensation practice, expressed, “Having grown up with 5 older sisters, I have seen the power and unique experience women bring to business. This all-female WC broker team has a perspective on relationship building at the carrier and retail level that is second to none. This combination of intuition, teamwork, knowledge and competitiveness helps them succeed in a way that few teams have. The accolades I’ve received over the years from both sides of the sales equation (retail and carrier) affirms that success.”
Creating Space for Vulnerability and Growth
These women have cultivated a culture where it’s okay to be vulnerable, ask for help, and prioritize personal life when needed.
“That kind of vulnerability has actually made us stronger,” Julia explains. “When you know your team will carry you when you stumble, you work harder to do the same for them.”
“I’ve had amazing women mentors who helped me find my voice and confidence,” says Candice Elberfeld, who recently welcomed her first child. “We’re always learning from each other and cheering each other on.”
Advice for the Next Generation
To young professionals entering wholesale insurance, this trailblazing team offers powerful advice:
“Don’t shrink yourself to fit in,” says Stephanie. “Bring your whole personality, your ideas and your voice. Build relationships, not just contacts.”
“As a mom to an 11-year-old future leader, it’s important to show her that a team of women can accomplish just as much as anyone else,” adds Kati Vickery.
Collaboration as a Core Value
This talented group thrives on collaboration. They divide responsibilities based on strengths, share credit freely, and solve problems as a unit. Their success is a testament to what’s possible when people work together with mutual respect and shared purpose.
“Being part of an all-women team is very empowering,” says Bridget Hicks-Heflin. “It allows for opportunities to connect and learn from other women.”
Having Each Other’s Backs Every Day
From closing tough deals to covering for one another during life’s transitions, these ladies show up for each other, every single day. Their journey highlights the incredible strength that stems from collaboration and support. It’s a reminder that when people unite with a shared purpose, they create lasting impact, not just in the goals they reach, but in the way they rise together.
Let’s give this incredible team a virtual high-five, not only noting their advice, but also their actions in effective collaboration!