In this episode of Awkward Insurance, host Dustyne Bryant talks to James Benham (host of InsurTech Geek Podcast and Vice Chair, Board of Regents at Texas So. University) about thought leadership, mentorship, and entrepreneurship in the insurance industry. They explore the legitimacy of thought leadership as a role in the insurance industry, the value of intentional mentorship programs, and the impact of effective mentor-mentee matching. The discussion highlights bootstrapping benefits, networking without agendas, challenges in claims management, and evaluating industry conferences. They emphasize the barriers to success, the need for supportive networks, and the importance of tackling tough challenges for professional growth.
Listen to the full podcast here or on your favorite streaming platform, and WATCH the interview below!
Regent James M. Benham was appointed to the Texas Southern University (TSU) Board of Regents by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in October of 2020 and was reappointed for a second term in 2023. He is currently the Vice Chairman of the Texas Southern University Board of Regents and is Chairman of the Administration and Finance Committee.
Regent Benham is the CEO of JBKnowledge, a 280-employee global insurance software company he co-founded in 2001, with offices and staff in 4 countries. He served for five years as an Adjunct Professor of Construction Science at Texas A&M University and still volunteers as a mentor and advisor for student groups. Regent Benham served the City of College Station as a Planning and Zoning Commissioner from 2011 to 2012 and was elected to two terms on the College Station City Council from 2012 to 2018 where he also served as Mayor Pro Tem. He is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO). He lives in College Station and is an avid airplane pilot and musician. Regent Benham received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 2001 and a Master of Science in Management Information Systems in 2002, both from Texas A&M University.
