On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, meet Erin Dop, an independent agent at Fullenkamp Insurance in West Point, Iowa.

She didn't join the family agency immediately after graduating from the University of Iowa. Instead, she was encouraged to build a foundation elsewhere, which she did by working as a commercial underwriter for a carrier.

However, five years ago, Dop's grandfather passed away, helping her realize that “family is one of the most important things," she says. The thought drew her into the family agency at a time in her life when she was about to get married and start a family of her own.

“A lot has changed, but I've learned a lot," Dop says. “Not only from an insurance perspective, but also about valuing the importance of a small family agency that offers all lines of business—from property & casualty to life and health, and everything in between."

Agency Nation Radio is where insurance professionals turn on the mic and share unscripted stories about leadership, technology, marketing, success and failure—stories that helped make them the professionals they are today. From Main Street USA to the pages of Independent Agent—we've got the stories you want to hear.

Dop was also featured in the December issue of Independent Agent. Check out her interview here or read the full issue online.

This episide of Agency Nation Radio is sponsored by MDRT, a global, independent association of the world's leading life insurance and financial services professionals from more than 700 companies in 80 nations and territories. MDRT members demonstrate exceptional professional knowledge, strict ethical conduct and outstanding client service. MDRT membership is recognized internationally as the standard of excellence in the life insurance and financial services business.