State Farm Agent

With seven years of experience serving State Farm customers as a team member in an independent contractor agent office, Ashley Goodenough felt that transitioning to agency ownership was a natural step. This was motivated by a family experience that inspired her to serve others in the agent role. "After the loss of my father and helping my family manage filing claims with several companies, I recognized the value of serving others in the moments that matter most. I never wanted another person to face hardship without a resource to help educate them on their options – that's why I became a State Farm agent." Ashley turned this commitment into compassionate customer service and the mission and values that guide her and her team. "We aim to enrich the lives of those we serve by helping them to make decisions that best fit their unique needs. We focus on values like integrity, respect, accountability, growth, and a true commitment to serving others." Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

This month, Cody Fuqua celebrates eight years as a State Farm independent contractor agent—a journey that began with a passion for sales and connecting with others. "I've always loved talking to people and understanding where they are. When a buddy of mine decided to open his own agent office, he needed a sales guy, and that’s how I discovered the small business opportunity with State Farm." Cody recognized the change to market products and services with value and lasting demand, inspiring him to open his own office. "My team works on the frontlines, connecting with State Farm customers every day. They’re dedicated to making insurance easy to understand while delivering on an exceptional experience. Our State Farm customer reviews are a testament to this commitment. "The ins and outs of insurance can be taught, but you must be willing to pick up the phone and market your business. If you can connect with people, this career could be great for you." Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

In honor of National Intern Day, we recognize our Agency Recruiting summer interns, Yuki and Aurora, who have infused positive energy and fresh ideas. Yuki, an economics student at Harvard University, and Aurora, an Integrated Marketing Communications major from Illinois State University, quickly realized that State Farm is more than just a company. “I always knew I wanted to work with data. During my time here, I not only explored this passion and its many strategies, but also encountered a rare environment where everyone, including leadership, supported me and took the time to get to know me, enabling me to truly succeed,” shared Yuki. Yuki and Aurora experienced a variety of opportunities like mentorship sessions, team meetings and hands-on projects, which helped connect their classroom knowledge to real-world applications. Aurora shares, “I used to be intimidated by the insurance world, imagining State Farm as just the company behind Jake where everyone wears red shirts and khaki pants. Instead, State Farm revealed to me countless career opportunities, where growth and longevity are nurtured from the ground up.” Thank you, Yuki and Aurora, for being a part of State Farm this summer. #NationalInternDay

“I became a State Farm agent because I wanted to serve my community the way I saw my mother and grandmother serve in theirs, with integrity, resilience, and heart. This decision wasn’t just a business move; it was a calling.” Lakitsia Gaines’ journey to becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent was deeply rooted in commitment to educating others. Having opened a third agent office this year, Lakitsia’s fulfillment is focused on making a positive impact in life changing ways. “What attracted me most was the chance to be both a business owner and a community leader — building wealth, creating jobs, and changing financial trajectories for families. I’ve seen widows avoid financial ruin because of a life policy we wrote. I’ve seen young adults begin to invest early because of a conversation we had. That’s the part that lights my soul on fire — autonomy with purpose. “We’re in the business of people, not just products, and together, we’re building financial transformation that lasts for generations.” Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

For Sales Leader Chris S., combining his passion for service with his drive to build something meaningful were motivating factors in becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent. His high school coach, who was also an agent, encouraged Chris to take the leap. "My experience as a State Farm agent gave me the entrepreneurial opportunity to grow a business and make a positive impact in the community I serve — all backed by one of the most recognized and trusted brands in the nation.” Chris’ background in the medical device sales industry gave him valuable experience in building relationships and delivering results. Now a Sales Leader, Chris empowers others to serve with purpose. “When looking for agent candidates, I seek individuals who have vision and integrity; display resilience, confidence and are self-driven — all qualities that align to the State Farm culture, and essential for success in this business. Every day, this path continues to confirm for me that I’m in the right role, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.” Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

State Farm independent contractor agent Susan Zaleski welcomes new ideas and continuously seeks personal and professional growth for herself and her team. "I grew up on a farm, so it was a learning curve moving to New York to open my agent office. I made it a priority to understand the population I was serving — their families, their interests, and the significant events they experience. "These connections allowed me to tailor State Farm offerings to meet their needs. Even in today’s digital age, the importance of relationship building cannot be overstated.” Susan demonstrates that it’s possible to be a devoted wife, mother, and friend while owning a business. "I’ve always found myself in a caretaker role outside of work, and that mindset naturally carries over to my agent office. I genuinely care about protecting my team and State Farm customers during both their joyful and challenging times. "When your work matches who you truly are, it comes naturally.” Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

Eric Gibson first encountered State Farm through a college marketing and sales competition. At that time, Eric had his sights set on a different path, but his plans began to shift after meeting a sales leader at the competition. "What struck me most about State Farm was the family feel from top to bottom — a support system I hadn’t seen elsewhere.” Eric spent just under three years working in a State Farm independent contractor agent office before becoming an agent himself. Coming full circle, Eric proudly notes that nine members of his team are currently in the process of becoming State Farm agents. “I wouldn't promote the agent career so heavily if I didn’t truly believe this was the best opportunity out there. When I look back years later, I want customers to see the role my team played in their lives and feel that we did everything possible to help protect what mattered most to them. “My goal is to play my small part and help set the bar high for the next generation of State Farm agents." Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

Starting as a customer care representative at State Farm, Erika Wallace explored various roles before finding the autonomy she desired as a State Farm independent contractor agent. “The agent opportunity allows me to be closer to home, have more time with my kids, and embrace the flexibility of small business ownership.” Erika loves leading, building trust, and bonding with her team, which allows them to thrive. “Mentoring my team and sharing my story motivates them to overcome challenges and pursue their own personal goals. It’s an honor to be a State Farm agent and positively impact others in so many ways.” Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, Erika embraces diversity to best meet the needs of customers. “My team tailors our bilingual skillset to assist every individual who calls or visits the office. It’s our commitment and priority to offer remarkable service and treat others like we would our family.” Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

Ross Hoekstra stepped away as pastor of a large Iowa church to explore various career paths before walking into the office of a local State Farm independent contractor agent. Determined to serve the community as a business owner, he was ready to do whatever it took to get there. "I joined the agent’s team, focusing on life insurance and financial services, and surpassed my agent's goals for my first year. It became clear this was where I wanted to be." When an agent opportunity became available in Ross' hometown, he jumped at the chance. "My office leverages social media to achieve growth and reach the community organically. People know me and my team, and we aim to be their first choice when they need State Farm products and services.” Ross believes the key to success as a State Farm agent is to be involved and invest back into the community. "This is what sets us apart from other insurance offices in the area - we are mission-driven with heart. We care deeply about others and see every interaction as an opportunity to make an impact." Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9

Crystal Fuller, a multi-office State Farm independent contractor agent in Texas, is known for being a hardworking mother of three with a generous heart. "I started at State Farm right out of college. After eight years, I opened my first agent office location in 2010. Seeing the impact I could make on people’s lives, I knew I had found my true calling.” Crystal's extensive experience in assisting others has provided her with a deep sense of fulfillment that goes far beyond insurance. "I have a heart for service, which motivates my engagement in the community. I’m a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), Junior League of San Antonio, and sponsor many local events to help do my part in improving the communities I serve. “Everyone has a purpose, and my goal as a State Farm agent is to help others find theirs." Learn more about becoming a State Farm independent contractor agent: https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/giWjAvk9