Ray Gage - Start with Stop

Power Producers Podcast

In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers interviews Ray Gage, a veteran of the insurance industry who transitioned into mindful business coaching. Ray shares insights from his decades-long career in insurance, including selling his agency and the emotional challenges that followed. The conversation explores the often-overlooked emotional side of agency sales, leadership, and the impact of mindfulness in both personal and professional lives. Ray also discusses his upcoming book "Start with Stop", which focuses on the power of stopping to reassess and transform one’s approach to business and life. The book offers 16 chapters, each addressing a distinct area of improvement such as leadership, time management, and communication, allowing readers to find practical transformations tailored to their needs.

Introduction and Background:

David introduces Ray Gage, a veteran in insurance since 1980, who now focuses on mindful business coaching and is releasing a book titled Start with Stop in December. Ray reflects on his journey, from agency ownership to transitioning into coaching, aiming to guide others with the knowledge he’s gained.

Selling an Agency: Overlooked Challenges:

Ray shares insights from selling his agency, explaining the unexpected emotional challenges that followed. He advises those considering a sale to seek advice from others who’ve gone through it to prepare for the potential impact.

Mindful Business Coaching:

Ray’s coaching emphasizes self-awareness, showing how personal responsibility and mindfulness affect professional and personal growth. He advocates intentionality and self-care to foster a balanced, productive life.

Start with Stop – Rethink Your Routine:

The book is structured with 16 standalone chapters, allowing readers to focus on specific areas like time management or relationships. Ray’s goal is to help others accelerate their growth by breaking out of old patterns and developing sustainable, positive habits.

Breaking Familiar Patterns:

Ray discusses the “familiar zone,” where people stick to uncomfortable routines simply because they’re habitual. He stresses the importance of practicing new habits to achieve personal growth.

Detaching from Outcomes and Finding Purpose:

Ray and David touch on ‘detaching from outcomes’ to reduce stress, allowing people to focus on effort rather than results. Ray also emphasizes the importance of finding one’s purpose, as it provides clarity and motivation for long-term success.

Connect with:

• David Carothers LinkedIn
• Ray Gage LinkedIn
• Kyle Houck LinkedIn

Visit Websites:

• Power Producer Base Camp
• Gage Bontrager Consulting
• Start with Stop Book
• Killing Commercial
• Crushing Content
• Power Producers Podcast
• Policytee
• The Dirty 130
• The Extra 2 Minutes