In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we explore the world of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) with Jim Tressel and Travis Remick of Liberty Mutual Surety. They discuss the unique aspects of ESOPs, and the factors contributing to their current prominence. Our guests provide insightful considerations for selecting an ESOP consultant, understanding valuation processes, the significant role ESOPs can play in a company's succession strategies, as well as the value of including the surety early in the process. For more information on ESOPs, check out this NASBP Virtual Seminar mentioned during this episode, "Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP): What You Should Know."

With special guests:

James (Jim) Tressel, Senior Vice President and Chief Underwriting Officer, Liberty Mutual Surety and Travis Remick, Chief Underwriting Officer, Contract Surety, Liberty Mutual Surety

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we discuss the ongoing changes in Canada's importing process with Sheila Thompson of Rosenberg & Parker of Canada and Cristina Hagivreta, Surety Manager at Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company. They delve into the new Canada Border Service Agency Assessment and Revenue Management System (CARM), a timely initiative that shifts Canada from a process focused on customs broker bonds to importer bonds. Our guests also discuss the implementation process of CARM, covering its electronic nuances and practical adjustments required by importers and surety companies as the changes are set to go into place on October 21, 2024. For more information and to stay up-to-date on these dynamic changes check out the Canada Border Service Agency's CARM resource page.

With special guests:

Sheila Thompson, President, Rosenberg & Parker of Canada, Inc. and Cristina Hagivreta, Manager, Surety, Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by EMC Bond!

On this episode, we are joined by NASBP President Zach Mendelson of EPIC as he shares both his career journey and his journey as a NASBP member and volunteer. He talks about his role as Chair of NASBP's Industry Relations Committee, where he played an instrumental part in launching the Be Guaranteed To Succeed (https://www.nasbp.org/guaranteed/home) public relations campaign. Zach also discusses his presidential theme, Backing Our Future, and the exciting work that has been initiated to create and promote a university-focused education and internship program that highlights the phenomenal career opportunities in the surety industry!

With special guest:

Zach Mendelson, Principal, Bonds/Insurance/Construction, EPIC | Edgewood Partners Insurance Center

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

On this episode, David Dolnick, Founder, CEO, & Principal Consultant with Dolnick Rick Advisors, joins us to take a look at managing risks in this rapidly changing insurance market and how that’s been impacted by COVID-19. We take a look at where the insurance market is now, where property and casualty rates are and how they are changing. We also take time to walk through tips to share with your construction clients.

Read more on this topic in David’s recent Surety Bond Quarterly articles, Helping Your Clients in a Rapidly Changing Insurance Market Part 1 and Helping Your Clients In a Rapidly Changing Insurance Market Part 2—Checklist to Share with Clients. For more information on COVID-19’s impacts on the Surety Industry visit NASBP’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources and Information page.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Larry LeClair, Director of GR at NASBP and John “JB” Byrd, representing the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) joins us for the second of a two-part series on rural broadband. In our first episode, Larry and JB shared some information on rural broadband, the recently enacted Broadband DATA Act and various virtual meetings conducted with senate and house staff. On this episode, JB and Larry discuss draft legislative language NASBP and the NSPS are pursing and what potential legislative action might be coming down the road. Find out more about NSPS and check out their podcasts, "Surveyor Says!" and "Point of Order".

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this first of two episodes Larry LeClair, Director of GR at NASBP and John “JB” Byrd, representing the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) will share their insights regarding the recently enacted Broadband DATA Act and discussions they have had with various congressional offices including those house members who serve on the rural broadband task force. Larry and JB discuss the start of NASBP and NSPS’s working relationship and where they are now, by tracing the steps and connections they have had with various house and senate offices which have led us to this point!

Find out more about NSPS and check out their podcasts, "Surveyor Says!" and "Point of Order" .

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Marty McCarthy, a member of the NASBP’s CPA Advisory Council and the managing partner of McCarthy & Company, PC, joins us to take a look at the PPP forgiveness process. Borrowers who received PPP loans are asking their CPAs if and how they will qualify for PPP loan forgiveness, as uncertainty over some of the program details exists. Many businesses — especially small businesses — worry about how best to meet loan forgiveness requirements. This episode will discuss loan forgiveness requirements and will pinpoint important factors affecting the forgiveness application process that should be considered first. For more information on COVID-19’s impacts on the Surety Industry visit NASBP’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources and Information page.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

On this episode, NASBP past president Bob Shaw, President of Skillings Shaw & Associates, Inc and David Jean, a member of the NASBP’s CPA Advisory Council and principal at the CPA firm of Albin, Randall & Bennett, joins us to take a look at how they are leading their contractor clients through these turbulent times. We discuss how COVID-19 is affecting their construction clients on both public and private projects with delays, backlogs, staffing, overhead, reviewing contracts, re-examining cost to complete, and work on hand schedules. As well as educating clients about Payroll Protection Program (PPP). For more information on COVID-19's impacts on the Surety Industry visit NASBP's Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources and Information page. 

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

The economy has been upended by the Covid-19 pandemic and headlines on bankruptcy’s have become more and more common. On this episode, Chad Schexnayder who is a partner with the law firm of Jennings, Haug & Cunningham, LLP, and regularly represents surety clients in bankruptcy cases throughout the United States, joins us to take a look at commercial surety account bankruptcy. Chad walks through the commercial surety account sectors that are being hit hardest by bankruptcy. We also discuss red flags before a company files for bankruptcy, how sureties can work to avoid “claw back”, the importance of documentation and communication between the surety, bond producer and commercial surety client to control risk!

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Jack Callahan CPA, Partner - Construction Industry Leader at CohnReznick joins us for the second of a two-part series on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In our first episode we discussed the updates and changes to the program, on this episode we will be discussing what the PPP means for bonding companies. Jack examines how contractors PPP loan debt and deferred payroll taxes will appear on their financial statements and may show the need to re-evaluate the ratios that are used to examine a contractor’s financials. As well as loan forgiveness and the possibility of the public shaming of contractors who have taken advantage of PPP loans similar to that we have seen of other businesses like Shake Shack. Read a full explanation of the PPP Loan Forgiveness Update or for more information on the PPP you can go to both NASBP’s Coronavirus Resources Page or CohnReznick’s Coronavirus Center!

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Jack Callahan CPA, Partner - Construction Industry Leader at CohnReznick joins us in this first of a two-part series on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). On this first of two episodes, we discuss the updates and changes that have come out as of the date we recorded on June 26, 2020. Jack chats with us about the changes to the covered period, Loan Forgiveness and EZ Forgiveness Applications, changes in the ratio of forgivable costs, deferral of payroll taxes, FTE Reduction Exceptions, and Safe Harbors, and the changes on the maturity of the loan. As well, as discussing the importance of documentation and audits. This is important information for everyone who has been able to take advantage of the PPP loans and their team of advisors!

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

In this episode, NASBP CEO Mark McCallum and General Counsel Martha Perkins join us to shares insights into the world of Individual Sureties. They share insights into loopholes that individual sureties take advantage of and often don’t come to light until a claim is made against the bond. They also discuss revised federal regulations proposed earlier this year and will begin to eliminate some loopholes. As well as reviewing examples and some easy ways to identify individual sureties.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

In this episode, Aldo Pasquariello, Executive Vice President with Insurance Associates an MMA Company, walks us through a case study of a local high school project strained by a subcontractor default. He discusses how this project could have become a disaster, but due to the cooperative efforts of the surety team facilitating a speedy resolution became an unqualified success! If you are interested in learning more about this project check out the Surety Bond Quarterly article by the same title.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

On this episode of "Let's Get Surety," we are joined by Caren Kelleher, the founder and CEO of Gold Rush Vinyl, a company acknowledged as one of the "Most Innovative Companies of 2020" by Fast Company magazine. Kelleher shares how she jumped, all in, and transitioned from being a music executive at Google to establishing her own vinyl record manufacturing company, riding on analytics and her passion for music and business. She shares what encouraged her to make the leap of faith into manufacturing as a small business owner. Delve into an engaging discussion on entrepreneurial hurdles and breakthroughs, capital sourcing through a U.S. Small Business Administration loan program and angel investors, the resilient vinyl industry's growth and future, and the indispensable role of trusted advisors on her journey. You will quickly perceive parallels in her story with those of countless surety clients!

With special guest:

Caren Kelleher, Founder & CEO, Gold Rush Vinyl

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

In this episode, guest Peter Gibbs, Director, Office of Surety Guarantees at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), shares insights into the SBA’s bonding assistance program and how they are helping contractors. He shares some history of the program, news of exciting updates, and outlines both Plan A and Plan B programs. He also highlights how the great support for the program through the participation of surety company’s and surety bond producers has helped the program grow!

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

In this episode, guest Dr. Tom Schleifer, retired construction executive, Arizona State University professor, and author of the blog, “Let’s Talk Business”, shares insights into how construction firms can survive the current COVID-19 crisis and resulting economic downturn hitting the construction industry. He cautions contractors to be wary of the wait and see a model of managing the current downturn, and to take a hard look now at cutting expenses to better weather this downturn. He discusses his analysis of data coming in now and compares it to the data and models from past economic downturns in the construction industry. For more information, you can also read a compilation of blog posts that Tom has shared on this topic, “Crisis-Era Message to Contractors: A Series from Dr. Tom Schleifer.”

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

In this episode, guest Julian Xavier with CLA shares some insights into the COVID-19 stimulus law Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) from a CPA’s perspective. He shares a high-level overview of the PPP loan, what happens once you receive the funds, what’s covered, or not covered, FTE requirements, the importance of tracking the funds, safe harbor, and steps for forgiveness. Julian helps to sort through the many questions around the Paycheck Protection Program as we await more guidance!

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

In this episode, guest David Robbins with Crowell & Moring share some insights into the COVID-19 stimulus law Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the False Claims Act Risk. He shares insight regarding the safe harbor time frame ending on May 7th, what to expect from impending audits and enforcement, and lessons learned from past disasters and the first round of PPP fund disbursements. You can also listen to the NASBP Virtual Seminar that David presents for a deeper dive into this important and timely topic, “False Claims Act and Enforcement Risks of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).” 

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

In this episode, guests Lori Demeyer and Kim Orsolits with CLA share some insights into managing the workplace without pandemonium during the COVID-19 pandemic and moving forward in the new world. They will share HR insight and advice for policy review, tailor-made plans that work best for each workplace, resources to help employees manage higher levels of stress, and planning for both coming into our offices or job sites and teleworking. You can also read the NASBP blog that our guests co-authored for additional information, “Pandemic Doesn’t Have to Mean Pandemonium in the Workplace.”

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode guests John Sebastian and Brian Padove attorneys with Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP will discuss Federal Construction Contracts and more specifically the Federal Acquisition Regulation or FAR in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. They will share insights into, when and how to provide notice, the burden of proof, suspension of work, and the sovereign acts doctrine. As well as stressing the importance of reviewing your current contract documents and taking the pandemic into consideration as you move forward with new contracts during these uncertain times. For more information on this topic check out the NASBP Blog post that our speakers co-authored with several colleagues at Watt Tieder, Federal Construction Contracts vs. COVID-19: An “Excused” Delay?

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Mike Zisa, Chair of the Surety and Construction Related Insurance Defense Practice Group at Peckar & Abramson shares insights into understanding force majeure clauses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation touches on reviewing contracts, communications with owners, giving notice, and documentation. Additionally, Zisa highlights that there may be other avenues for recovery in existing contracts, so careful contract review is warranted.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Corban Enns, Area Vice President, Surety Solutions a Gallagher Company, shares experiences with and insights into the electronic bonding system NMLS and what helped lead stakeholders to transition to and value electronic bonds. We also discuss how the NMLS could be an example that could be used to streamline other types of bonds processes, especially in light of the remote work world in which we find ourselves.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

In this episode, Peter Quinn, Senior Vice President of Major Markets – Surety at Crum & Forster, shares how he and the team at Crum & Forster are getting back to business and keeping the focus on people and relationships during these unprecedented times. We discuss working and meeting remotely, digital seals and more.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode, Jack Callahan CPA, Partner - Construction Industry Leader at CohnReznick joins us to share action items that contractors should be considering now due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. If you are interested in getting more in-depth information you should check out the NASBP Blog Jack contributed titled, “Finding Stability In A Time of Crisis” and the NASBP Virtual Seminar, “Contractors Guide: What You Should Know As You Manage Through the COVID-19 Environment”.

Finding Stability In A Time of Crisis 

Contractors Guide: What You Should Know As You Manage Through the COVID-19 Environment

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with Corban Enns of Gallagher Affinity Insurance Solutions, shedding light on the complexities of working with state agencies and navigating through the nuances of bonding. Corban shares his journey getting into surety, discusses the CSBS and NMLS, and addresses the confusion about the surety product that you might encounter. Most importantly he shares stories and insight on how to be proactively advocating for the benefits and significance of the surety product with owners and obligees. Join us as we uncover the secrets to successful collaboration and advocacy in the world of surety.

With special guest:

Corban Enns, Area President & Director of Surety, Gallagher Affinity Insurance Solutions

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

In this episode, Josh Etemadi and Edin Zukanovic of Construction Bonds, Inc. a Division of Murray join us to share some insights and stories on how they have used social media and social marketing to promote the surety product, build relationships with clients and sell more bonds!

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, Chief Executive Officer, NASBP

NASBP staff Mark McCallum and Kathy Hoffman join us to share information and updates on the NASBP Be Guaranteed to Succeed Campaign that is designed to help begin a new conversation about surety. They also describe the engaging array of Surety Story Videos and how to find a NASBP bond producer. For more information on the Be Guaranteed to Succeed Campaign visit - www.nasbp.org/guaranteed or go directly to the growing library of Surety Story Videos here - www.nasbp.org/guaranteed/surety-stories.

Hosted By:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

If you have ever gone to a school or a park, attended a large sporting event, rode on a bus, driven on a highway, bought imported goods, or sent a wire transfer, you have been protected by the surety product. On the second and fourth Tuesday of each month Kat Shamapande, the host of Let's Get Surety will be joined by fun co-hosts and exciting and engaging guests who will share their stories, insights, and expertise on the world of surety and how it affects our everyday lives! If you are interested in learning more about surety and surety bonds, this is the podcast for you!

Are you familiar with customs bonds? On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we welcome John Sheppard, of C.A. Shea and Company, to share his expertise in this specialized area of the surety industry. John provides insight into common terms, and bond types, and defines who qualifies as an importer. He also explains the role and guarantees of a customs bond, including cover for duties, taxes, and fees and compliance with federal regulations. From traveling abroad to enforcing intellectual property rights, you'll learn the surprising instances where customs bonds come into play. Get more information on NASBP's Commercial Surety School Level 1 and Level 2  classes, view the NASBP Virtual Seminar titled, "Anti-Dumping/Countervailing Duty: An Overview" and the recent blog post on customs guidelines updates.

With special guest:

John J. Sheppard II, Executive Vice President, C.A. Shea & Company, Inc.

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

Have you ever considered getting a CCIFP? On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Damien Strohmier, CCIFP of DSP Insurance Services as we explore the value of the CCIFP certification and how it can give producers, underwriters, and CPAs a competitive edge in the construction industry. We discuss the certification, its components, and what it means to earn your CCIFP, as well as the cost to take and maintain this certification. Check out the Surety Bond Quarterly article, "Certification Savvy" for more CCIFP stories, and find out more about the CCIFP!

With special guest:

Damien Strohmier, Surety Bond Producer, DSP Insurance Services

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Todd Regan, a partner in the law firm of Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, to discuss the many pitfalls to be avoided when negotiating personal guarantees. Todd explains how even when a corporate officer or agent signs what appears to be a clear agreement to personally guarantee a corporate debt, a creditor may later be surprised when the court finds the guarantee unenforceable, leaving the creditor empty-handed. Listen in to learn more about this crucial and sometimes overlooked aspect of the construction and surety industries. Read Todd's article published in the Surety Bond Quarterly Summer 2023 issue that is mentioned during this episode, "Have an Ironclad Personal Guarantee From a Corporate Officer or Agent?" and listen to Todd's other Let’s Get Surety® episode "A Closer Look at Performance Bonds and Recent Court Rulings"!

With special guest:

Todd Regan, Partner, Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader in the surety industry? NASBP is excited to announce a new series of episodes exploring that question, titled "The Corner Office: Conversations with Surety Leaders." In this first episode, we are joined by surety industry leader Larry Taylor, President of Merchants Bonding Company, to talk about what it takes to lead an insurance company solely focused on surety bonding. Larry shares his background, including that he is a fourth-generation executive at Merchants Bonding Company, and relates the strategies and reasons behind the company's growth and how Merchants fosters its appealing company culture. Larry also speaks to opportunities and to challenges on the horizon for the surety industry as a whole and emphasizes the importance of sharing the value of the surety product more broadly. Check out the EY report prepared for SFAA, mentioned during this episode, titled The Economic Value of Surety Bonds.

With special guest:

Larry Taylor, President, Merchants Bonding Company

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety® we learn from sales and leadership expert Ryan Estis how to approach sales with confidence and the power of relationships. Ryan explains how good salespeople are made and not born, and what qualities are necessary for success - like staying curious and being an expert in a particular industry. He explains the importance of trust and creating emotional connection, as well as how preparation can make a huge impact! Listen to learn more about how to build strong and impactful relationships. Find out more information from Ryan in his recent book "Prepare for Impact."

With special guest:

Ryan Estis, Co-Founder, ImpactEleven

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with three surety professionals--Brad Babcock of Babcock Solutions and Chair of NASBP’s Membership Committee, Nicole Campbell of Parrot Surety Services and Vice Chair of NASBP’s Membership Committee, and Jennifer Morales of Intact Insurance Surety Group. All discuss reasons for joining NASBP and the extensive membership benefits and resources offered, including ways in which employees can participate in association efforts to gain industry knowledge and skillsets. Please join them and discover their perspectives on why membership is so valuable. Find out more about becoming a member now! Or check out some of the many resources and opportunities mentioned during this episode:

• NASBP SmartBrief
• NASBP Blog (specifically mentioned - Five Ways AI Is Likely To Affect The Construction Industry)
• NASBP White Papers, like the one mentioned on, Resident Agent Countersignature Laws
• NASBP Producers Communications Toolkit
• NASBP's Surety Schools
• NASBP's Suretylearn and NASBP Virtual Seminars
• NASBP's Online CE Courses
• NASBP's Suretylearn For Contractors and resources like 51 Questions Small Contractors Ask About Bonding
• NASBP's Annual Meetings and Fall Meetings
• NASBP Advocacy and Government Relations and the Federal Legislative Fly-in
• Join A NASBP Committee

With special guests:

Brad Babcock, Owner, Babcock Solutions, Nicole Campbell, CEO, Parrot Surety Services, and Jennifer Morales, Underwriting Consultant, Surety Specialty, Intact Insurance Surety Group

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Merchants Bonding Company!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we talk with CPA Jessica Krause, founder and owner of New Lyfe Accounting. Jessica shares her expertise in accounting for construction firms and the importance of having an accurate WIP report. We discuss the importance of small contractors learning how to prioritize, delegate, and grow their team of trusted advisors as their company grows. Jessica discusses how outsourcing accounting services can help small contractors do just that and offers tips on the right questions to ask to find a CPA who understands the dynamics of the industry!

With special guest:

Jessica Krause, CPA, CCIFP, Owner, New Lyfe Accounting

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we discuss the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the construction industry with guest Richard Volack, a partner at Peckar & Abramson. Richard highlights several factors that typically make construction companies more vulnerable to cyber attacks, such as slower technology adoption and the need for the exchange of sensitive data among parties. Volack also shares steps that can help mitigate cybersecurity risks like using multi-factor authentication and making regular firewall updates. Be sure to check out the NASBP Virtual seminar, AI in Construction Law: Managing Risks and Opportunities that is mentioned during this episode and search Cybersecurity on the SuretyLearn Catalog to dive in even deeper!

With special guest:

Richard Volack, Partner & Chair, Cyber Security & Data Privacy Practice, Peckar & Abramson

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by EMC Bond!

On this episode of Let's Get Surety®, we talk with Steve Sandherr, CEO of Associated General Contractors of America, who has served the association for more than three decades as he announces his upcoming retirement. Looking back, he talks about his journey to AGC, building and keeping talented teams, and the importance of working with like-minded groups. Steve shares his insights on the commercial construction industry and offers a glimpse at the amazing work that has gone into ConsensusDocs, AGC's educational offerings, and AGC's government relations work that has aided in shaping policies for the benefit of the commercial construction industry, during his tenure. Get more information on AGC of America at www.agc.org.

With special guest:

Steve Sandherr, CEO, Associated General Contractors of America

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we speak with leaders of Women in Surety, Inc., a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization, founded in 2016 to offer surety women opportunities, mentorship, and support. Nancy Schnee, current President, Chandar Potter, Vice President, and Carol Levine, a co-founder, address how Women in Surety empowers, inspires, and advances women professionals in the surety industry. Our guests talk about the founding of the organization, the organization's structure, and its exciting growth and increasing recognition. The insightful conversation also touches on the terrific offerings of Women in Surety, like their events and mentorship program. Find out more about Women in Surety, including how to become a member, by visiting www.suretywomen.com.

With special guests:

• Nancy Schnee, Senior Vice President, American Global, LLC and President and Founding Board Member, Women In Surety
• Chandar Potter, Head of Commercial Surety, Munich Re Specialty Insurance, Vice President and Founding Board Member, Women In Surety
• Carol Levine, President, Arthur B. Levine Co., Inc., and Co-Founder of Women in Surety

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

On this 100th episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we take time to celebrate another success on the advocacy front! We are joined by Philip Macres, a principal at Klein Law Group PLLC and leader of the Coalition that seeks alternatives to the letter of credit (LOC) requirement in the BEAD program, and NASBP's Director of Government Relations Larry LeClair. We discuss some background on Broadband and LOC's. As well as discussing the exciting NTIA press release that came out on November 1, 2024 and what it means! Check out the September 6th letter mentioned during the podcast and gear up for NASBP's 2024 Legislative Fly-In where this will be one of the items for Fly-In attendees to address.

With special guests:

Philip Macres, Principal, Klein Law Group, PLLC and Lawrence LeClair, Director, Government Relations, NASBP

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Danette Back, Partner and Head of Industry Verticals at USI Insurance Services to discuss how surety and insurance teams can work together and support each other. She discusses the importance of having holistic conversations about Risk Management with clients, and the need to seek out education such as NASBP's Surety School to fill gaps in knowledge. Danette also shares insights into what she is seeing from her vantage point of overseeing both PNC and Surety teams. Find out more about how you too can attend NASBP's Surety Schools!

With special guest:

Danette Beck, CPCU, ARM, CRIS, Partner - Head of Industry Verticals and National Construction Practice Leader, USI Insurance Services

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic Surety!

Among NASBP’s valued stakeholder partners is the American Subcontractors Association, Inc., a national association representing the breadth of the subcontractor construction community. NASBP has enjoyed and continues to enjoy a productive relationship with ASA and looks forward to enhancing that strategic relationship in 2024. Let’s Get Surety® sat down with Richard Bright, CEO of ASA, at NASBP's 2023 Annual Meeting, to talk about ASA's expansive organization, its services, and its plans for growth. Richard discusses the importance of the association in advocating for payment, contract language, and workforce issues, as well as the successful initiatives they've implemented to reduce retainage. Since our conversation, the FASA Natural Disaster Guide mentioned in the episode has come out. Find out more about ASA, including how to become a member, by visiting www.asaonline.com.

With special guest:

Richard Bright, Chief Executive Officer, ASA and FASA

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

On this episode of NASBP’s Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by NASBP Past Presidents John Bustard of King & Neel, Mark Munekawa of Woodruff Sawyer, and Tracy Tucker of Tucker Agency, Ltd. We look at the past, discussing each of our guests’ entry into the surety industry as well as the roots of their NASBP involvement. Additionally, we discuss their unique presidential terms, all of which were altered by the COVID-19 pandemic. The stories they tell exemplify the importance of resourcefulness and leading and moving forward through unprecedented times. You can check out other terrific content in the recordings of the Virtual Events that are mentioned during our conversation at NASBP’s SuretyLearn. Listen to all of the interesting and engaging episodes in the Thinking Back Looking Forward: NASBP and the Surety Industry with NASBP Past Presidents series.

With special guests:

Tracy Tucker, President, Tucker Agency, Ltd, John Bustard, Senior Vice President, King & Neel, LLC, and Mark Munekawa, Sr. Vice President – Surety, Woodruff Sawyer

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Aaron Steffey, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, of Propeller Bonds, who shares his insights and observations on electronic bonding. We discuss the importance of the digitization of surety, as well as some of the ups and downs, such as how the pandemic helped move electronic bonding forward more quickly, as well as the many hurdles still in front of us. Check out the other Let’s Get Surety® episodes on electronic bonding to learn more!

With special guest:

Aaron Steffey, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Propeller Bonds

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Nathan Wonder of CAC Specialty who shares perspectives and updates on alternative energy bonding. We discuss the growth and changes in the Solar and Wind power industries and the need to standardize the bond forms in the alternative energy space. Nathan also touches on bonding opportunities on the horizon in the burgeoning hydrogen and carbon sequestration and geothermal energy industries. Check out Nathan's past presentations, “Future Opportunities in Surety: Navigating Changing Landscapes” which was part of the NASBP April 2021 Virtual Event as well as the Virtual Seminar titled “Shedding Light on Surety in the World of Solar Power” and the Surety Bond Quarterly article he authored with the same title.

With special guest:

Nathan Wonder, Vice President, Surety - Natural Resources, CAC Specialty

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by federal executives John Miller of the Office of Capital Access and Jermaine Perry of the Office of Surety Guarantees at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), who share perspectives and information regarding SBA’s capital access lending and bond guarantee programs, which benefit and strengthen small businesses by giving them the capital and credit needed to progress and thrive. Find out more about these federal programs available to small construction businesses nationwide at https://www.sba.gov.

With special guests:

John Miller, Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Capital Access at U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Jermaine Perry, Director, Office of Surety Guarantees, Office of Capital Access, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Cash McMillen of The Cashion Company and Brianna Stephenson of Parrot Surety Services to discuss their surety careers. They share how they found their careers in surety, what their roles and tasks are during a typical day on the job, and how they knew that they had found much more than a job with their surety careers. Both Cash and Brianna share advice for those looking for a career and encourage them to consider a career in surety. 

With special guests:

Cash McMillen, CIC, Partner, Executive Vice President – Operations-Insurance and Bonding, The Cashion Company, Inc. and Brianna Stephenson, Surety Bond Specialist & Marketing Manager, Parrot Surety Services

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

In this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we hear from Will Kantlehner IV of Gallagher, and Nate Byerly from Gray Surety, as they share their journies to their surety careers and delve into the intriguing intersection of private equity and surety. They unpack how the introduction of a fourth party, the private equity company, adds additional nuances to the bonding processes though the principles stay the same. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities arising from private equity firms' involvement in construction companies, the varying levels of knowledge these firms may have about surety and bonding practices, and the overall complexity in understanding this fourth entity. Interested in learning more about Private Equity and Surety check out these great NASBP Virtual Seminars on the topic:

The State of Private Equity: Current Trends and Outlook
Private Equity’s Growing Interest in the Built Environment
Private Equity and Bonding Private Venture Owned Business
Private Equity for Surety Professionals: What You Need to Know

With special guests:

Will Kantlehner IV, CPCU, Area Vice President, Gallagher and Nate Byerly, CPCU, Bluegrass Regional Manager, Gray Surety

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by EMC Bond!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Government Relations staff Larry LeClair of NASBP and Mike Oscar of the American Subcontractors Association (ASA) to discuss current federal legislative initiatives that NASBP and ASA are working together on and significant recent wins! They discuss efforts to amend the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) to ensure performance and payment protections are in place on WIFIA funded projects, as well as pursuing proposed legislation on bonding federal P3 projects, and introduction of H.R. 2726 the Small Business Payment and Performance Act, which will remedy situations in which small construction businesses are forced to finance federal contracting agency unilateral change orders. Get more information from NASBP about advocacy efforts by signing up for NASBP’s Focal Point, an electronic legislative/regulatory bulletin, and find out more about ASA’s advocacy work on their website and in their magazine Contractor’s Compass.

With special guests:

Lawrence LeClair, Director, Government Relations, NASBP and Michael Oscar, Director of Government Relations, American Subcontractors Association (ASA)

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Old Republic!

Are you curious how blockchain technology is changing the surety industry? On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by Greg Davenport of Liberty Mutual Surety and Sandy Hampel of The Institutes RiskSteam Collaborative to discuss the substantial strides a broad industry effort facilitated by The Institutes RiskSteam Collaborative has made exploring blockchain technology to digitize surety processes. Davenport and Hampel discuss how blockchain technology can generate greater efficiency in processes by, for example, allowing faster verification and authentication of bonds. They relate the impressive work now being accomplished with surety and technology partners, including the ability to provide demonstrations of proofs of concept at NASBP’s recent 2023 Annual Meeting, and the plans for 2024. Check out Greg’s past episode that touched on the earlier days of this process titled, “Blockchain Technology in Surety” and visit The Institutes RiskStream Collaborative online to get more information.

With special guests:

Greg Davenport, Sr. Vice President, Global Risks, Liberty Mutual Surety and Sandy Hampel, Director Life & Annuity and Commercial Lines Products, The Institutes RiskStream Collaborative

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

On this episode of Let’s Get Surety®, we are joined by three women executives from Liberty Mutual Surety, Patty Catanese, Renee Llewellyn, and Cissie Scoggin-Saslaw, who stepped away from the excitement and networking at NASBP’s 2023 Annual Meeting to chat with us. We learn about their career paths, how they have grown their careers in a male-dominated industry, how the makeup of the surety industry has grown and become more diverse, and some of the exciting programs that Liberty Mutual Surety has put in place to attract, retain, and provide a path to leadership for women in surety, such as their Women’s Resource Network.

With special guests:

• Patty Catanese, Northeast Regional Vice President – Surety Field Operations, Liberty Mutual Surety
• Renee Llewellyn, Senior Vice President, Surety Plus, Liberty Mutual Surety
• Cissie Scoggin-Saslaw, Southeast Regional Vice President - Surety Field Operations, Liberty Mutual Surety

Hosted by:

Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!