Michael Cokins has had a successful career in insurance, marked by his dedication to helping others, leading teams, and mentoring future leaders. His story shows resilience and creativity, from excelling in academics and sports to overcoming life-altering challenges. In this interview, he offers advice for those interested in starting a career in insurance and shares his thoughts on leadership.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
What really motivated me to enter the insurance field was my experience during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. I was living in New Orleans, working as a General Manager at a popular restaurant chain. After evacuating to Houston, I returned to volunteer with recovery efforts. I spent time with HandsOn New Orleans and worked closely with insurance agents through the restaurant rebuild. This started to change my priorities. Seeing people rebuild their lives inspired me to pursue a career where I could continue helping others, leading me to insurance.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
When I joined State Farm in 2007, I brought a mindset that shaped how I worked, especially as I moved into claims management. I realized that helping people through their toughest times changed how I saw leadership and service. It’s not just about getting results; it’s about making a difference in people’s lives.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
One experience that changed how I approach my work happened during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Houston was devastated, and I was part of the team helping people piece their lives back together. I remember one particular family whose home had been completely flooded. They had lost nearly everything. Sitting with them as they shared their story, I realized how much more this job was about connecting with people than just handling paperwork. It wasn’t just about processing claims; it was about showing empathy and helping them navigate one of the toughest moments of their lives. That experience taught me the power of patience and the importance of listening. It shifted how I interacted with clients, not just as part of my job but as someone who could offer comfort during a stressful time. It made me realize that rebuilding isn’t just about physical structures; it’s about helping people rebuild their sense of security and hope.
How has your leadership or innovation made a significant impact on your industry or community?
After Harvey, I was on the ground helping people get their lives back in order. One case stood out to me. A woman had lost nearly everything, and her home was barely standing. I was there to assess the damage and walk her through the claims process. But as we talked, I realized she wasn’t just looking for an adjuster—she needed someone to listen, to understand her loss on a human level. While technology and innovation are important, it was that personal connection that made the difference. It’s about using the tools we have not just to speed things up, but to serve people better. From then on, I’ve carried that lesson with me, both in my work and in mentoring others.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
Find someone to guide you—this has been a game-changer for me. Having a mentor who’s been in your shoes can help you navigate the ups and downs of your career. Also, be open to change and learning new things, especially in fields like insurance where things are constantly evolving. Whether it’s new rules, technologies, or shifting client needs, staying flexible is crucial. The most successful people I know lead by lifting others up, whether it’s their team, clients, or community. If you focus on serving them, success will naturally follow.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
I led a project in 2015 that made a big difference. We needed to improve the claims process, making it faster and more customer-friendly. By introducing new technology, we were able to speed things up without losing the personal touch. It changed how we worked and how we served our clients.
I’m excited to start a podcast and write a book to help future leaders in the insurance industry. Mentorship has been a huge part of my journey, and I want to share what I’ve learned to guide the next generation. It feels great to be able to give back and inspire others in their careers.
Key Takeaways
From volunteering after Hurricane Katrina to leading in the insurance industry, his goal has always been to help others. He embraces innovation and uses technology to improve processes, always focused on serving people.
A key part of Michael’s success is his belief in mentorship. He credits his mentors for guiding him and now gives back by mentoring others. He’s also sharing his experiences through an upcoming podcast and book.
Michael’s advice for entrepreneurs is simple: prioritize helping others, be adaptable, and learn from mentors. His story shows that true leadership is about making a positive impact on those around you.
