Rancho Mesa News
Rancho Mesa’s Top Podcast Episodes and Articles of 2024
Author, Jadyn Brandt, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Rancho Mesa has always been committed to empowering employers with essential knowledge about insurance, surety, and workplace safety. We kept up this commitment in 2024, producing nearly 100 podcasts and articles covering topics central to the industry. As we look back on the past year, here is some of our most impactful content from 2024.
Author, Jadyn Brandt, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Rancho Mesa has always been committed to empowering employers with essential knowledge about insurance, surety, and workplace safety. We kept up this commitment in 2024, producing nearly 100 podcasts and articles covering topics central to the industry. As we look back on the past year, here is some of our most impactful content from 2024.
Top Podcast Episodes of 2024:
1. Ep. 393 Navigating 2024's Contractor Challenges with the Surety Association of San Diego
Andy Roberts, Rancho Mesa's Account Executive for the Surety Department and President of the Surety Association of San Diego (SASD), is joined by fellow SASD board members to delve into the major challenges confronting contractors in 2024 and strategies for optimizing your surety relationships.
2. Ep. 443 Exploring the Current Commercial Surety Climate
Andy Roberts, Rancho Mesa's Surety Account Executive, is joined by Miggs Borromeo, Commercial Surety Underwriter for Merchants Bonding, to discuss the current climate of the commercial surety world in Southern California.
3. Ep. 411 The Prime Contract and Its Impact on Your Rights and Responsibilities
Rancho Mesa’s Surety Relationship Executive Anne Wright talks with Pam Scholefield of Scholefield Law in San Diego, and discusses the factors subcontractors should consider before signing a prime contract.
4. Ep. 447 Exploring Innovation and Problem Solving in the Commercial Construction Industry
Kevin Howard, Partner with Rancho Mesa, interviews Jeremy Dentt of Dentt Properties Inc. and explores a range of topics relating to innovation and problem solving in the commercial construction world.
5. Ep. 403 Return to Work Programs: Best Practices for Handling Workers' Comp Claims
Rancho Mesa's Media Communications & Client Services Manager Alyssa Burley and Account Executive Casey Craig discuss return to work programs as a best practice for handling workers’ compensation claims.
Top Articles of 2024:
1. WCIRB 2024 Construction Dual Wage Threshold Increases Approved
California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara approves an increase in hourly wage thresholds for all 16 construction dual-wage classifications. This article outlines the increases for each classification.
2. Employee Spotlight: Rancho Mesa’s Christina Haake Elected President of PWI
Senior Client Manager Christina Haake was elected President of the Professionals within Insurance (PWI) San Diego. Haake shares her thoughts on the organization and what she is looking forward to in her term as President.
3. Most Commonly Reclassified Lawn Care and Landscape Workers Compensation Governing Codes
In states that are under the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) rating bureau (in which there are currently 35), there are two major class codes used by landscape professionals. Each code applies to specific job duties and have different rates. This article explains when each class code should be utilized.
4. New California Employment Laws for 2025
New legislation was implemented across California at the start of 2025. This article highlights some of the most relevant legal changes for California business owners in the new year.
5. How Healthcare Staffing Agencies Can Prevent Claims
Healthcare staffing agencies play a vital role in maintaining patient care standards. This article provides steps healthcare staffing agencies can take to prevent claims and protect their operations.
Rancho Mesa’s entire library of insurance and safety podcast episodes and articles can be found on our website under “Insights.” To get the latest podcast episodes and articles, subscribe to our weekly newsletter
Employees Overwhelmingly Vote Rancho Mesa Best Workplace
The insurance industry is a people business and Rancho Mesa is proud of the work we do in our community and the people on our team. The dedicated individuals who protect our clients are truly what sets us apart. We value employee satisfaction across all areas of life. So much so, we decided to ask employees about their job satisfaction and we found that 93.5% of our employees said they have a high level of overall job satisfaction.
Author, Megan Lockhart, Marketing & Media Communications Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
The insurance industry is a people business and Rancho Mesa is proud of the work we do in our community and the people on our team. The dedicated individuals who protect our clients are truly what sets us apart.
We value employee satisfaction across all areas of life. So much so, we decided to ask employees about their job satisfaction and we found that 93.5% of our employees said they have a high level of overall job satisfaction. And, while many companies have purchased “best place to work” awards through various publications, Rancho Mesa wanted real data from our real employees. Last year, Rancho Mesa used MarshBerry’s reputable Employee Engagement Survey which allowed employees to voice their opinions honestly and confidentially. MarshBerry then evaluated the feedback and provided a summary of the results. These results offered insight into areas such as career advancement, management, and work/life balance. Here’s what they discovered.
94.3% of employees say their work schedule allows them to have a work/life balance.
Rancho Mesa prioritizes work/life balance by ensuring manageable workloads, encouraging employees to take regular breaks, and time off. The agency offers a strong PTO policy, wellness programs via its health benefit plans, all in order to support employees' well-being. Rancho Mesa leadership promotes deep respect for personal time, with no expectations for after-hours work. The agency believes in recognizing the team’s efforts, ensuring that everyone can maintain a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.97.4% of employees say their careers are being advanced by working at Rancho Mesa.
The agency supports employees' career growth through continuing education courses, professional development workshops, and internal promotions. Rancho Mesa funds insurance licensing and certifications for team members, encouraging designations such as AIS, AINS, CRIS, and CISR. Furthermore, in 2024 Rancho Mesa promoted 16% of its entire workforce to more advanced positions. The agency is passionate about supporting its employees' professional goals, setting them up for a fulfilling and successful careers.97.5% of employees say their immediate supervisor cares about their well-being.
Rancho Mesa upholds a leadership style that is committed to maintaining open lines of communication, regular check-ins and guidance when needed. Leadership also recognizes and celebrates achievements with initiatives like the OneofOne® Recognition Program, encouraging both leadership and employees to submit praise for when their team members go above and beyond. Based on the numbers, 67% of Rancho Mesa employees were publically recognized for their OneofOne work in 2024. The agency is proud to have cultivated a work environment where employees feel supported and truly cared for by their team.97.4% of employees say their job fully utilizes their knowledge, skills and experience.
The agency is committed to offer challenging and meaningful work that aligns with the team’s individual expertise. Rancho Mesa also utilizes employees' skills by creating opportunities for them to train and mentor others, encouraging continuous learning, and ensuring every team member can grow and contribute in their own distinct way.92.1% of employees say they plan to keep working at Rancho Mesa for at least the next three years.
Rancho Mesa is proud to maintain a low employee turnover rate, which reflects the strong loyalty and satisfaction felt among the team members. Many employees choose to build long-term careers with Rancho Mesa, some even retire after 20+ years. Rancho Mesa believes this is the biggest indicator of its commitment to employees.
We’re honored to have the real voices of our team vote Rancho Mesa a best place to work, and we’re proud of the company culture that led to these results. If you are seeking a lasting career that values personal growth, professional development, and a positive work environment, you are invited to explore Rancho Mesa’s employment opportunities.
Rancho Mesa’s 2024: Our Year in Review
With 2024 officially behind us, Rancho Mesa is proud of what we have accomplished the past year. 2024 was a year of breaking records, growing our team, and adapting to the changes in the insurance world. Here are some highlights from our 2024 year.
With 2024 officially behind us, Rancho Mesa is proud of what we have accomplished the past year. 2024 was a year of breaking records, growing our team, and adapting to the changes in the insurance world. We’ve continued to strengthen our commitment to providing OneofOne® service to our clients, while keeping up-to-date with the tools and resources they need. From refining our policy review process to expanding our SafetyOne™ training library, we’ve focused on staying ahead for clients while enjoying the journey along the way. Here are some highlights from our 2024 year.
IIABA Best Practices Agency Designation for 18th Consecutive Year
In August, Rancho Mesa was recognized Best Practices Agency for the 18th consecutive year by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big “I”). This special award is only given to a select group of agencies that are carefully evaluated based on their practices, methods, and finances to find the top performers in the industry. We were proud to stand out as one of a select few agencies to earn the Best Practices status in California.
Employee success
Our team celebrated many professional achievements in 2024, including impressive career milestones.
Rory Anderson joined the Ownership Team as a new Partner.
Yvonne Gallagher was promoted to Senior Client Manager/Team Lead.
Kelsey McPherson was promoted to Senior Client Manager/Team Lead.
David McCoy took a new role as Client Coordinator.
Brenda Khalil took a new role as Client Technology Coordinator.
Megan Lockhart was promoted to Marketing & Media Communications Specialist.
Rachel Bristol was promoted to Client Manager.
Maria Lotta was promoted to Assistant Client Manager.
Ashley Hunter was promoted to Client Manager.
Along with our team’s internal achievements, we also welcomed 10 new employees across a diverse range of roles, to our RMI family last year.
Jeremy Hoolihan at his IIAB Board Member Installation dinner with his wife, Cheri.
Rancho Mesa employees dove into the industry’s community last year, taking on impressive leadership roles.
Surety Account Executive Andy Roberts was appointed President of the Surety Association of San Diego (SASD).
Partner Alyssa Burley was appointed Parliamentarian for NAWIC San Diego Board.
Partner Jeremy Hoolihan served as an IIAB San Diego Board Member for the 2024 year.
Senior Client Manager Christina Haake served as Secretary for PWI San Diego.
client & industry Involvement
Rancho Mesa stayed active and engaged in both our clients’ industries and the insurance community last year. Our Account Executives attended numerous conferences and industry events in order stay updated on the trends that affect our clients. Here are the highlights.
President Dave Garcia, Landscape Group VP Drew Garcia, and Account Executive Greg Garcia attended NALP’s Leaders Forum Litibu, Mexico.
The team attended I-Day this year, connecting with insurance professionals at our booth.
Construction Group Vice President Sam Clayton attended Artisans Insurance Ltd. Board of Directors Meeting in Nassau, Bahamas.
Partner Jeremy Hoolihan attended BHHC’s Annual Shareholders Meeting in Omaha, NE.
Partner Rory Anderson attended Grow Summit 2024 hosted by Stay Green, Inc.
Drew Garcia and Greg Garcia attended NALP’s 2024 ELEVATE Conference in Charlotte, NC.
Client Services
Rancho Mesa is proud of the services and added resources we offered clients last year. We hosted 10 live workshops and streamed 53 virtual webinars for our clients to attend.
Additionally, our Safety and Risk Management Network, StudioOne™, published 99 podcast episodes in the 2024 year, and brought in 14 outside professionals as guests.
Our Employment Law Update workshop, hosted in November 2024 and presented by attorney Thomas E. Daugherty of Klinedinst San Diego, was highly anticipated and covered employment law changes in the 2025 year.
Community involvement
In addition to our industry involvement, Rancho Mesa remained dedicated to supporting the San Diego community by participating in sponsorships and events that align with the initiatives we proudly advocate.
Team enrichment
Rancho Mesa takes pride in fostering a dynamic work environment and creating camaraderie among our team. In 2024 we enjoyed celebrations and social activities beyond the office, which strengthened our team’s bonds, helping us serve our clients effectively. Here are the highlights.
The team cheered on the Aztecs at many SDSU football games in Rancho Mesa’s suite at Snapdragon Stadium.
We hosted clients and carrier partners on the lawn at our Mission Valley office with Fiesta Friday.
Our annual Summer Party was a blast for the whole family at Stone Brewery in Liberty Station.
We celebrated the season with a casino themed Holiday Party, this year at the Brigantine at Portside Pier in San Diego.
What a year! Rancho Mesa takes pride in our achievements of 2024, and we’re grateful for our clients, partners, and fellow team members that have made them possible. As we embark on the new year, we continue our commitment to delivering OneofOne© service and are excited for the 2025 journey ahead!
Growth for Generations: Rancho Mesa Kicks Off for 2025
Author, Megan Lockhart, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
On Friday, January 10, 2025, the Rancho Mesa team gathered at ARLO Restaurant at the Town & Country in San Diego for its annual Kick-Off Meeting and lunch to reflect on the past year, acknowledge achievements, and set goals for 2025.
Author, Megan Lockhart, Marketing and Media Communications Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
On Friday, January 10, 2025, the Rancho Mesa team gathered at ARLO Restaurant at the Town & Country in San Diego for its annual Kick-Off Meeting and lunch to reflect on the past year, acknowledge achievements, and set goals for 2025.
Employees enjoyed a delicious lunch and dessert while Rancho Mesa President Dave Garcia presented a summary of the 2024 year. Garcia acknowledged successful employee milestones, sales achievements and offered insight into the 2025 outlook.
Garcia also gave means for celebration as he elaborated on the construction of our Mission Valley office expansion, occupying the entire floor.
We appreciate our clients and partners who have supported Rancho Mesa the past year. We look forward to continuing creating growth for generations in 2025!
View the Rancho Mesa 2025 Video:
Employee Spotlight: Rancho Mesa’s Christina Haake Elected President of PWI
On Friday, December, 13, 2024 Senior Client Manager Christina Haake was appointed President of the Board of Directors for Professionals within Insurance (PWI).
Author, Megan Lockhart, Marketing & Media Communications Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
On Friday, December, 13, 2024 Senior Client Manager Christina Haake was elected President of Professionals within Insurance (PWI) San Diego.
PWI is an organization that brings together local insurance professionals in San Diego County and provides opportunities for networking, career development, education and connection through events that give back to the community.
The inauguration took place at PWI’s Winter Wonderland Holiday Breakfast at the Admiral Baker Golf Course. Haake was joined by her Rancho Mesa team members who attended to support and celebrate her achievement.
“My first year at RMI I went to a PWI event to meet others in the insurance industry. It was exactly what I was looking for in a group,” Haake said. “I got to talk with members that were in different stages in their careers and roles in the industry, and also be social and do fun things around San Diego, all while raising money for some amazing charities.”
Haake has over a decade of experience in the insurance industry. She previously held the position of Secretary on the PWI board, and has personally coordinated many events for the organization.
“I'm super excited and honored to be the President of PWI in 2025. PWI has and always will have a special place in my heart,” Haake said. “These members have not only become my friends but my mentors and have always been there to support me throughout my career and other milestones in my life.”
Rancho Mesa commends Haake on her leadership accomplishment, making a positive impact within the insurance industry.
Rancho Mesa Celebrates the 2024 Holidays
Rancho Mesa’s high rollers were in even higher spirits, on Saturday, December 7, 2024, as the team celebrated the holiday season with a night at the casino! Our staff, alongside loved ones and friends, placed their bets at the Brigantine at Portside Pier, and enjoyed a night of festive food, drinks and raffle prizes.
Author, Jadyn Brandt, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Rancho Mesa’s high rollers were in even higher spirits, on Saturday, December 7, 2024, as the team celebrated the holiday season with a night at the casino!
Our staff, alongside loved ones and friends, placed their bets at the Brigantine at Portside Pier, and enjoyed a night of festive food, drinks and raffle prizes.
Rancho Mesa wishes you a Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Rancho Mesa and Sentry Insurance Enjoy Night at Aztecs Football Game
On Friday, November 8, 2024, Rancho Mesa employees were joined by the Sentry Insurance Leadership team to watch the SDSU Aztecs football game at the Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, CA. We were honored to host our Sentry guests, John & Lynne Fischl, Nic Hernandez, Joanne Rodriquez and Gabe Mendez. Attendees enjoyed a top-notch experience within Rancho Mesa’s suite box, including complementary snacks, dinner, and drinks.
On Friday, November 8, 2024, Rancho Mesa employees were joined by the Sentry Insurance leadership team to watch the SDSU Aztecs football game at the Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, CA.
Rancho Mesa was honored to host our Sentry guests, John & Lynne Fischl, Nic Hernandez, Joanne Rodriquez and Gabe Mendez in Rancho Mesa’s suite box.
“It was fun to have many of our talented service team members, including two of our newest members Joyce Flores and Olivia Velasco. Thank you to everyone for taking time, on a Friday night no less, to help make the night so fun,” Rancho Mesa President David Garcia said.
Although the outcome of the game was not in the Aztec’s favor, our team had a fantastic time building upon an already strong partnership and friendship with Sentry Insurance.
Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc. Honored with Best Practices Agency Designation for Eighteenth Consecutive Year
Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc., has been awarded by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big “I”) as a Best Practices Agency for the eighteenth consecutive year.
Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc., has been awarded by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big “I”) as a Best Practices Agency for the eighteenth consecutive year.
This prestigious recognition is given to an elite group of agencies that undergo a comprehensive analysis of their methods, practices, and financials to determine who is the best in the industry. Out of approximately 35,000 independent insurance agencies in the U.S., 2,600 were nominated and only 235 were selected this year for this distinction. In California, Rancho Mesa stands out as one of a select few agencies to earn the Best Practices status.
To qualify, an agency must first be nominated. Following the nomination, it must submit detailed financial and operational information, which is then analyzed, scored, and ranked objectively based on operational excellence, including outstanding customer service, growth, stability, and financial management. Each agency must be among the 35-45 top-performing agencies in its revenue category to be awarded Best Practices status.
The data collected from these Best Practices independent insurance agencies is studied and used to establish benchmarks, enabling other agencies to measure their performance and adapt their businesses based on the best practices guidelines established through the study.
“This award is incredibly challenging to achieve, and I am immensely proud of our team's sustained efforts. Congratulations to everyone at Rancho Mesa for your dedication and hard work,” said Dave Garcia, President of Rancho Mesa.
Each year, the Big “I” publishes its "Best Practices Study," which includes financial and operational data collected from agencies across the United States. The 2024 Best Practices Study will be available later this year and will feature a list of all the Best Practices Agencies by state, as well as the study's results.
To learn more about what it takes to be a "Best Practices Agency," visit www.independentagent.com/best-practices.
RM365 Advantage Safety Star™ Program for Construction Moves to SafetyOne™ Platform
Author, Megan Lockhart, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Rancho Mesa has officially released its RM365 Advantage Safety Star™ program in the SafetyOne™ platform. Moving forward, clients participating in the construction safety program will complete the courses entirely through the platform or via an in-person workshop.
Author, Megan Lockhart, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Rancho Mesa has officially released its RM365 Advantage Safety Star™ program in the SafetyOne™ platform. Moving forward, clients participating in the construction safety program will complete the courses entirely through the platform or via an in-person workshop.
The Safety Star videos have been updated with the most current safety information, and the required courses are now accessed entirely via the online training feature.
The Safety Star program teaches important topics relating to construction safety in the workplace to help employers mitigate job-related injuries. Fall protection, ladder safety, heat illness prevention, fleet safety, and accident investigation are some of the courses participants must pass in order to earn their certification in construction safety.
If clients are interested in Safety Star certification for themselves or their employees, they can submit an application on the Rancho Mesa website, or reach out to their Client Technology Coordinator.
Rancho Mesa’s Jeremy Hoolihan Attends Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting
Rancho Mesa Partner in the Construction Group, Jeremy Hoolihan, was honored to be invited by Berkshire Hathaway to attend their 2024 Annual Shareholders meeting on Saturday, May 4, in Omaha, Nebraska. Jeremy had the opportunity to hear Berkshire Hathaway Chairman and CEO, Warren Buffet, speak about the State of Berkshire Hathaway, the first quarter results, and fielded questions the shareholders threw his way.
Rancho Mesa Partner in the Construction Group, Jeremy Hoolihan, was honored to be invited by Berkshire Hathaway to attend their 2024 Annual Shareholders meeting on Saturday, May 4, in Omaha, Nebraska. Jeremy had the opportunity to hear Berkshire Hathaway Chairman and CEO, Warren Buffet, speak about the State of Berkshire Hathaway, the first quarter results, and fielded questions the shareholders threw his way.
Guests of Berkshire Hathaway included independent insurance agencies from all over the US as well as several hand-picked Berkshire Hathaway team members. Guests enjoyed visiting the exhibit hall where they could purchase Berkshire-owned products such as See’s Candy, Dairy Queen, Fruit of the Loom, Pampered Chef at a discounted rate.
Guest also enjoyed multiple dinners at Omaha’s famous 801 Chophouse and the Boiler Room.
“This was an amazing trip and I’m so thankful for Berkshire’s invitation,” Hoolihan said. “My highlight of the Shareholder meeting was the tribute they had for Charlie Munger, who was Warren Buffet’s long time business partner”.