Showcase #7- Zack Engel Founder of Way Maker Insurance Group

In this episode of Start Up Showcase, host Colton Hower sits down with Zack Engel, founder of Way Maker Insurance Group, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey, the niche insurance market he specializes in, and his vision for the future of his company. Zack shares how Way Maker focuses on voluntary employee benefits, offering essential products such as life insurance, short-term disability, accident coverage, critical illness insurance, and hospital indemnity plans. Unlike many traditional insurance providers, Way Maker prides itself on a hands-on, relationship-driven approach, ensuring clients receive personalized service throughout the enrollment and claims process rather than being directed to call centers. Zack’s journey into the insurance industry was unexpected—having originally pursued a career in construction management, he found his way into insurance through networking and discovered his passion for building relationships over simply making sales. He explains how Way Maker differentiates itself by catering to a wide range of businesses, from small mom-and-pop shops to large corporations across industries like construction, healthcare, oil & gas, real estate, and hospitality. Additionally, their ability to serve 1099 workers gives them a competitive edge in an industry where flexible, portable benefits are in high demand. During the conversation, Zack provides an in-depth breakdown of Way Maker’s five core insurance products, explaining how they fill critical gaps for employees, particularly those with high-deductible health plans or limited employer benefits. He also shares his ambitious goals for the company, which include expanding his team, increasing carrier partnerships, and re-entering the business insurance sector to create a full-service agency. As the discussion wraps up, Zack offers valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of not fearing failure, surrounding yourself with the right people, and staying true to your values. He also highlights the significance of learning from setbacks and using them as a driving force for success. The episode closes with a teaser for future guests, promising more inspiring startup stories in the episodes ahead.