If you’ve ever had to navigate the world of insurance — whether as a business leader or an individual — you know how frustrating it can be. Policies are confusing, and it often feels like brokers are more interested in selling a product than solving a problem.
Dustin McClone knows this, too, so he did something about it.
Dustin is the third-generation CEO of McClone, the brokerage his grandfather started in 1949. What struck me during our cover story interview was how in an industry obsessed with mitigating risk, Dustin has taken some pretty big ones.
As a company, McClone has flipped the insurance industry on its head. It took a decade-long journey of self-discovery that included tearing down traditions and rebuilding new processes, but it led McClone to develop a proactive, data-driven approach that helps clients identify risks and solve the ones that matter most.
Head to page 20 to learn more about McClone’s RiskMAP process that is fueling huge growth for the Menasha company.
Along with this issue you will find the Women of Influence in the New North Region special publication containing profiles of our eight honorees. This piece serves as the program during our awards ceremony, which was held July 29 at Oneida Hotel in Green Bay. This event is one of my favorites, as each honoree gives personal remarks directly to attendees. Their stories are a testament to the power of taking chances and not playing it safe.
If you missed this year’s event, I’ve got good news — in 2026 the event moves to March 3, which means you don’t have to wait a full year to experience it for yourself. That also means we are accepting nominations for our 2026 Women of Influence class right now, so head to insightonbusiness.com/women today to nominate the important women in your life. We’d love to get to know them.
As Insight embarks on some exciting changes including a design refresh — more to come this fall — the stories of reinvention in this month’s issue are especially energizing.
Regardless of the field you’re in, I hope this issue inspires you to think differently about your own work and where it makes sense to take a chance.
