Accelerate Your Growth: Inside the Podcast Driving Agent Success

In an industry built on relationships, The Accelerator by Hagerty is where connection meets expertise. Hosted by Hagerty insurance leaders, John Gessner and Bryant Kolle, this podcast dives into what truly moves the needle for insurance agents and brokers serving the collector car and enthusiast markets.

Each episode explores the stories, lessons, and real-world insights behind the business of protecting automotive passion - from the evolving world of private risk management to the art of confidence in client relationships, from market intelligence and claims strategy to the community roots of boutique agencies.

The conversations are candid, the takeaways are actionable, and the guests, ranging from thought leaders to front-line practitioners, bring a depth of experience you can use right away.

If you’re ready to grow your business in one of the most emotionally charged, loyal, and dynamic corners of insurance, The Accelerator is your on-ramp.

Listen and subscribe: The Accelerator by Hagerty

Episode 1 — Why Confidence Is Your Best Asset in Business and Sales with Lydia Fenet

Auctioneer, author, and confidence coach Lydia Fenet opens the series with lessons from her time commanding rooms at Christie’s and beyond. She shares how to cultivate confidence in yourself, your message, and your value to clients.

“Confidence isn’t arrogance—it’s clarity. It’s knowing what you bring to the table.” – Lydia Fenet

“When you walk into a room believing you can help, people feel it.” – Bryant Kolle

It’s an energizing kickoff that reminds listeners why presence and purpose matter in every interaction.

Listen now.

Episode 2 — From Million-Dollar Wrecks to Lifetime Clients: Lessons from the Claims Team

What happens when the unthinkable happens to an insured's prized vehicle? Leaders from Hagerty’s claims department, Lee Meeler, Jeff Mullenix, and David Herbert share the moments that tested their teams, and what every agent can learn from those experiences.

“The claim is the moment you prove everything you’ve ever promised.” – Lee Meeler

“A good claim story travels. Clients tell it, agents use it, and it builds a reputation that money can’t buy.” – John Gessner

This one’s equal parts business insight and emotional storytelling.

Listen now.

Episode 3 — When Disaster Strikes Classic Cars: CAT Claims at Hagerty

This short, special episode steps into the field with Hagerty’s claims team as they respond to wildfires, floods, and hurricanes. The stories are raw, real, and surprisingly hopeful - showing how care and communication define Hagerty’s difference when things go wrong.

“We’re not just restoring cars; we’re restoring trust.” – David Herbert

It’s an inside look at how expertise and empathy turn catastrophe into confidence.

Listen now.

Episode 4 — Building Boutique Success: Community, Cars, and Culture with Dana Acabbo and Carrie Keller

When Dana Acabbo and Carrie Keller left the corporate insurance world to start Make the Switch Insurance, they did it with one mission: to serve clients with authenticity and joy. This conversation explores how culture and community drive business - especially when your clients are fellow enthusiasts.

“Our clients know we get them. That’s what makes this space different - you can’t fake passion.” – Dana Acabbo

“The business grows when the community grows. That’s the magic.” – Carrie Keller

Their story proves that heart, humor, and connection are still unbeatable growth strategies.

Listen now.

Episode 5 — Market Stability, Car Values, and the Rise of Younger Enthusiasts with Brian Rabold

Collector car values tell a story, and Brian Rabold, Hagerty’s VP of Automotive Intelligence, has spent his career interpreting it. In this episode, he breaks down what’s driving today’s market: the steady rise of ‘90s cars, generational turnover, and the cultural shift that’s redefining what it means to be a collector.

“We’re seeing stability return to the market, but the conversation is changing. Millennials and Gen Z buyers are driving enthusiasm in entirely new directions.” – Brian Rabold

“Agents who speak the language of values—and valuation—can become their clients’ most trusted advisors.” – Bryant Kolle

It’s a masterclass in reading the road ahead and positioning your agency for long-term relevance.

Listen now.

Episode 6 — Elevating Standards in Private Risk with Diane Delaney

As the CEO of the Private Risk Management Association (PRMA), Diane Delaney brings clarity to the changing expectations of high-net-worth clients. She and the hosts dig into how the best advisors are adapting to a new risk landscape—where everything from cyber to collector assets demands specialized knowledge and empathy.

“We’re not just talking about insurance anymore. We’re talking about lifestyle, legacy, and confidence.” – Diane Delaney

“Agents who understand private risk are building not just portfolios, but partnerships.” – John Gessner

Delaney’s insights are a reminder that the future of success lies in collaboration, education, and elevating service beyond the transaction.

Listen now.

Drive Further with Every Episode

Each conversation on The Accelerator is designed to spark ideas, challenge your approach, and keep you connected to the best minds in automotive risk and enthusiast culture.

If your clients love cars, these stories will help you speak their language and grow your business while doing it.

Listen and subscribe: The Accelerator by Hagerty on Apple Podcasts