Meet Lorrie Baldevia: A Career Built on Personal Experience
Every story has a heart, and for Lorrie Baldevia, that heart beats with the rhythm of her childhood. Growing up as the eldest of five in Guam, things took a turn when her father was tragically killed in a construction accident. She was just 12. Life changed dramatically for her family, but it was a life insurance policy that offered them some stability during those tough times.
After that, her family learned to navigate life with newfound financial security, something most of us might take for granted. “It gave us a kind of financial security we wouldn’t have had otherwise,” she reflects. This experience laid the groundwork for an entire career dedicated to helping others find the same sense of security she had fought for.
When Lorrie made her move to the continental U.S. at 17, she was on a full scholarship at Seattle University. Juggling multiple jobs while chasing a degree in marketing, finance, and international business, she didn’t let anything slow her down. Think about that for a second. Most of us would buckle under that pressure, but not her. She took on early roles in financial services and then found her place at MCM, where she climbed the ladder from administrative support to partner, eventually becoming president after the firm’s acquisition.
Building Connections That Matter
Now, she leads a 15-person team at AssuredPartners, catering to around 7,000 clients. And who are these clients? They’re mainly private business owners looking for guidance on succession planning or figuring out how to protect their hard-earned assets.
Baldevia gets it. She isn’t just another insurance agent pushing a policy; she’s a woman who understands that every conversation about insurance is also about life and family. “We’re not just planning for the individual—we’re helping transition family businesses or protect against long-term risk,” she says. She’s got that personal touch locked down, and her clients appreciate that. Imagine having someone who gets both the personal and professional aspects of your life as your advisor.
While working with about 200 families directly, Lorrie’s team tackles everything from executive benefits to managing insurance for homes, cars, and even collectibles. Most firms tend to lean either heavily towards wealth or insurance, but Lorrie’s approach combines both perspectives. As she puts it, “We do both—in a way that looks at the full picture.”
Why Lorrie Stands Out in the Crowd
So why exactly is Baldevia a game-changer in this industry? It all comes down to her ability to handle an array of insurance needs under one roof. In a world where most firms stick to either wealth management or insurance, Lorrie decided to establish a unique niche. This blend of services means her clients don’t have to juggle between multiple advisors. “Honestly, it just makes more sense,” she insists. And you know what? She’s right.
During her years of working in insurance and wealth management, she realized that a lot of clients feel overwhelmed trying to understand different aspects of their financial lives. They often need someone who can connect the dots humorously and responsibly, turning what can feel like a maze into something much clearer.
One time, while chatting with a business owner who was stressing about his retirement plan, she laid out a simple comparison. “Think of your insurance like a safety net,” she said. “You wouldn’t walk the tightrope without it, right?” A light bulb went off! That simplistic explanation showed just how effective Lorrie could be in breaking down complex ideas into relatable scenarios.
A Practical Take on Insurance Planning
When it comes to her philosophy on insurance, Lorrie has mastered the art of pragmatism. “I’m not here to sell you something—I’m here to help you buy what makes sense,” she states with assurance. How refreshing is that? Instead of pushing products, she wants to sit down with her clients, chat about their concerns, and tailor a solution that works for them.
The conversation usually starts with some thoughtful discussion about risk. What are you aiming to protect? Depending on the response, the strategy might lead to opting for term insurance for temporary needs or gravitating towards permanent solutions for long-term planning. “Buying insurance is a process,” she explains. And honestly, it should be a thing of value, not a chore.
Lorrie emphasizes that for many business owners, insurance isn’t just an expense; it can become an asset used to tackle future taxes or transition risks. Picture this: your insurance policy could do more than secure your family’s future; it might even cushion your business’s growth. Now that’s a conversation worth having.
Challenges Along the Way
Admittedly, Baldevia has faced her challenges too. “I used to dwell on things that weren’t as important,” she shares. We’ve all been there, right? Now, she’s more strategic and is focused on mentoring her team to adopt the same mindset. It’s clear she’s grown, not just as an advisor but as a leader.
Lorrie is particularly passionate about encouraging women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to enter the insurance field. She says, “It’s a great business that offers real stability— but the people doing the work should reflect the people we’re serving.”
This isn’t just lip service, either. Baldevia actively engages with local communities and organizations, empowering the next generation to enter into a field she clearly loves. Just last week, I was in a workshop where she was speaking. She captivated the audience with her life stories, and I could see the younger women in the room leaning in, hanging onto her every word. There’s something undeniably inspiring about seeing someone who’s not only achieved success but is all about helping others rise alongside them.
Advice From the Trenches
When you think about life insurance—or really, any kind of insurance—what usually comes to mind? Confusion? Overwhelm? You’re not alone. Most of us think of it as something we’ll tackle later in life. But Lorrie’s got some solid advice: “Don’t overthink it. Start with what’s available through your job.”
Just having something in place can be a huge leap forward. “A lot of people think it’s something they’ll get around to someday, but that mindset can delay critical protections,” she stresses. It hit me that many of us get so caught up in our busy lives we forget to tackle these essential tasks till it’s too late.
Her words are a wake-up call. Just like how you wouldn’t put off a medical check-up, addressing your insurance needs should be a priority too. It’s easy to dismiss until suddenly, you find yourself wishing you had taken that first step long ago.
Mid-Article FAQ
What types of clients does Lorrie work with?
Lorrie primarily collaborates with private business owners and families. Her team addresses their various insurance needs, ranging from succession planning to personal asset protection.
What makes Baldevia’s practice unique?
Her ability to manage both insurance and wealth planning under one umbrella gives her clients a big advantage. Many firms usually focus on one aspect or the other, but Lorrie aims to cover it all.
How does she assess insurance needs for clients?
Lorrie starts with a conversation about risk and what facets of their life or business need protection. This discussion helps shape the right insurance solution for that client’s personal circumstances.
What advice does she give to those new to insurance?
Lorrie emphasizes not to overthink it. Simply starting with what’s available through your job serves as a smart initial step towards securing yourself.
How does Baldevia support women and underrepresented groups?
She actively promotes diversity in the industry, encouraging women and those from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in insurance, offering guidance and mentorship to those entering the field.
Final Thoughts
Lorrie Baldevia isn’t just making a living in insurance; she’s building connections, empowering families, and paving the way for future generations to feel secure. It’s a career shaped by her early life experiences, and it’s evident she’s determined to make a difference. Every conversation, every policy isn’t just business for her—it’s deeply personal.
In a world where it’s easy to see insurance as another line item on your budget, Lorrie’s mission is clear: she’s out to transform how people perceive and engage with insurance. Next time you think about your insurance needs, remember that it doesn’t just protect assets; it safeguards families, futures, and legacies.
