60,000 Agents Strong: How FFL CEO Shawn Meaike Reshaped Distribution and Built FFL into a Juggernaut

In this episode, host Peter Colis welcomes Shawn Meaike, Founder, CEO, and President of Family First Life. Family First Life was launched in 2013 and has grown into a multi-million-dollar insurance organization. As Shawn describes it, he is “building a company that truly puts both the families of our clients and the families of our agents first.” Family First Life is now represented by over 17,000 licensed agents in almost all 50 states marketing mortgage protection, final expense, life insurance, and annuities. The company is projected to reach over $600 million dollars in issued paid premiums. 

You’ll hear Shawn’s inspiring journey from being a social worker to heading a successful insurance company and the evolution of Family First Life. Shawn shares the challenges he faced on his way to success, his leadership principles, and his family-centric approach to business. The discussion also covers the company's expanded range of insurance products and services, and their new partnership with Ethos. You’ll also hear valuable insights and lessons for personal and professional growth.

The What’s Your Ethos podcast is brought to you by Ethos Insurance and is hosted by Ethos’ CEO Peter Colis. In each episode, Peter sits down with some of the life insurance industry’s biggest movers and shakers. You’ll hear them talk through their biggest breakthroughs, business insights, and leadership challenges — and get to know them on a more personal level. 

Founded in 2016, Ethos is a technology company providing access to instant, accessible life insurance online. Ethos’ mission is to help millions protect their families with access to simple, affordable life insurance. The company has redesigned the application process from start to finish to ensure the customer always comes first. Ethos offers flexible coverage options, access to valuable online tools, and a team of licensed agents ready to help you through it all. Ethos always puts the customer first. 

Discussion points:

• Shawn Meaike’s journey from social worker to insurance industry leader
• The evolution of Family First Life over the past decade
• Discussion on company culture and putting agents and customers first
• Difficulties faced, including their CRM system shutting down
• Expansion of insurance products and services 
• Partnership with Ethos and the impact on the business
• Shawn's leadership principles and family-centric approach to business
• The importance of staying humble and hungry in business
• Mentoring new leaders and fostering a culture of respect and growth
• How COVID-19 has affected the insurance industry and Family First Life
• Shawn's insights on navigating industry complexities and fostering transparency

Resources:

Shawn Meaike Profile

Shawn Meaike LinkedIn

Family First Life Insurance

Peter Colis LinkedIn

Ethos Life Insurance