SurveyNow recently sat down with Michael Cokins, a Houston native who has built an impressive career in the insurance industry, starting as a claims adjuster for State Farm and now holding a leadership role in the company’s Corporate & Business Development team. Michael’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for golf. Here’s what he had to share about his journey, the qualities of a good entrepreneur, and the habits that keep him productive.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
In insurance, things rarely go as expected. You need to change your approach and think of creative solutions quickly. It’s also important to show empathy. Whether you’re working with a team, helping clients, or handling claims, understanding others’ needs helps build trust and lasting relationships. Lastly, hard work is key. Success takes time, so you must be ready to put in the time and effort to achieve your goals.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the closure of the Golden Corral restaurant I managed in New Orleans due to Hurricane Katrina. It was devastating for both the business and the community. After that, I had to reassess my career and personal goals, which led me to volunteer with HandsOn New Orleans for almost a year. That experience opened my eyes to how insurance could help rebuild lives after a crisis, ultimately shaping my decision to transition into the insurance industry. Navigating such significant change was tough, but it taught me resilience and the importance of finding new opportunities in adversity.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I’m really excited about the role technology is playing in insurance, specifically in the claims process. AI and machine learning are making it faster and more efficient to assess damages and provide timely support to people. It’s transforming the way we work, allowing us to focus more on personal interactions and less on the administrative side of things. The speed and accuracy that technology brings is helping us serve clients better, and that’s always exciting.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self to be patient. When I first started out, I was eager to climb the ladder as fast as possible, but success takes time. You have to focus on gaining experience and learning from every opportunity. I’d also remind myself to embrace challenges as learning experiences, even if they seem insurmountable at the time. Looking back, I realize that those difficult moments taught me the most.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Prioritizing my tasks each morning has been a game-changer for me. I identify the top three things I need to accomplish that day. This keeps me focused and prevents me from getting overwhelmed by smaller, less important tasks. I also make time for breaks, which helps me stay energized and prevents burnout. A quick walk or some time on the golf course helps reset my mind.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I rely on two things—exercise and nature. Golf has always been a way for me to clear my head and find focus. It combines the physical and mental, and spending time outdoors always refreshes me. I also believe in stepping away from work when necessary. If you’re constantly grinding without a break, losing perspective and making mistakes is easy. Knowing when to pause is key to staying productive and motivated.
Takeaway
In 2015, Michael returned to Houston to join State Farm’s Corporate & Business Development team, where his career truly flourished. He credits much of his success to the mentorship he received, which helped him navigate the complexities of the insurance world. Promoted to Claims and Investigations in 2021, Michael continues to thrive, combining his passion for helping others with his love of travel and golf.
In his own words, “Embrace the unexpected, and don’t be afraid to start over.” Michael Cokins’ career is a testament to the power of perseverance and a reminder that with the right mindset, even the most challenging setbacks can lead to new and rewarding opportunities.
Colin Rowe, currently the Chief Marketing Officer at Arthron INC., a medical supply company in Franklin, Tennessee, has quickly become a notable figure in the social media marketing. With his experience managing digital content and social advertising for various prominent brands, Colin shares valuable insights into his journey. He offers advice for social media managers at any stage in their careers. Colin holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Analysis and Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, graduating in 2016.
Interview with Colin Rowe
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
When I graduated college, I didn’t have a clear career path laid out in front of me. It’s rare to graduate with everything figured out, which was certainly the case for me. I was still trying to find my way. My first job was actually in the customer service industry at Mr. Roof. At the time, I wasn’t sure where this role would take me, but looking back, it was the perfect starting point.
Working in customer service taught me invaluable skills—problem-solving, communication, and staying calm under pressure. These skills have carried over into every role I’ve had since. But it wasn’t until I transitioned into marketing that I found my passion. I discovered that marketing allowed me to blend creativity with strategy, and that’s where I truly thrived. Success wasn’t an overnight discovery for me—it took time and multiple experiences in different fields to really understand where my passion lay. When you love what you do and you don’t feel like you’re working, that’s how I define success.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A successful entrepreneur must keep up with industry trends. Marketing, especially digital marketing, changes quickly. What works today might not work in six months. I stay updated by reading reports, attending webinars, and talking with other professionals. Staying informed is key to staying competitive because it helps you anticipate changes and adapt before others. This is what separates great entrepreneurs from the rest.
Another important trait is leadership. Having a great idea is not enough; you need to lead a team to make it a reality. I used to try to do everything myself, thinking no one could do things as well as I could. But that slowed down my growth.
I realized the importance of leadership and delegating tasks. I improved my team’s skills and boosted our productivity by teaching and guiding my team. Delegating allowed me to focus on bigger tasks, making my team more confident and effective. This helped us achieve better results together.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
When I started at Festisia, one of my main goals was to form partnerships that would help boost the company’s brand in the entertainment industry. I quickly found out that building these connections wasn’t as easy as I expected. The biggest challenge was earning the trust of well-known industry leaders. Since Festisia was still growing, I had to show that we were a reliable and valuable partner. Many bigger brands already had strong relationships with other companies, so breaking into those networks took time, persistence, and patience. But I learned valuable lessons in resilience and realized that successful partnerships are about finding ways for both sides to benefit, not just pushing for our own advantage.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I’m excited about how video is changing marketing. Video is now a great way for brands to share their stories. The best part is that short videos on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts make it easier for brands to connect with people in a real and fun way. These platforms focus on creativity and let companies show who they really are without fancy production. Today, people want to see something authentic, and video makes that possible.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to find a mentor early. A mentor can be really helpful when starting your career. I was lucky to find one later, and it made a huge difference. Having someone who has been through what you’re going through can give you advice and ideas you might not think of. They can help you avoid mistakes and give support when things feel tough. For me, understanding the industry became easier with someone to guide me. A mentor can help you meet new people, boost your confidence, and push you to try new things.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
What excites me the most is how much easier video editing has become. Tools like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro can now handle tasks like adjusting colors, mixing sound, and adding visual effects automatically—things that used to take a lot of time. Plus, apps like Canva and mobile editing tools let marketers quickly create high-quality videos, which is really important in today’s video-focused world.
By automating the “boring” tasks, marketers can focus more on being creative—coming up with ideas and creating stories that connect with people.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
What really helps me unwind is going to music festivals. I love music, and festivals let me take a break from work stress. Being around others who love music is exciting and inspiring. Plus, I get to travel and explore new places, which is refreshing. It recharges me and gives me fresh ideas. Afterward, I come back to work feeling more focused and motivated. Music festivals remind me that taking time for myself helps me stay productive and balanced in the long run. It’s not just a break—it’s a way to reconnect with my creativity.
Key Takeaways
Since 2024, Colin Rowe has served as the Social and Marketing Manager at Arthron INC. in Franklin, Tennessee. He handles all the medical supply company’s digital content and social advertising. In addition to his marketing expertise, Colin enjoys making music videos and collaborating with local artists in the Franklin area. He’s consistently building his portfolio with engaging content that drives results for both his clients and the brands he works with.
With creative vision and analytical skills, Colin is poised to continue impacting the marketing world. His advice for young marketers and entrepreneurs is clear—stay curious, be patient, and never stop learning.
Jared Clarke is a Texas-based entrepreneur and the driving force behind Forza Resources, a company specializing in land management, GIS mapping, and database management within the oil and gas industry. With a footprint spanning multiple states, Jared’s data management and asset evaluation expertise has positioned him as a pivotal figure in the industry. His journey from a young professional to a seasoned leader in energy services is a story of success and a testament to his resilience, foresight, and unwavering commitment to innovation.
Interview with Jared Clarke
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success isn’t just about making your business successful; it’s about positively impacting your industry and finding a good balance between work and personal life. When I started Forza Resources, I was focused entirely on growing the company, often neglecting other important parts of my life. My main goal was to make the business thrive and contribute to the oil and gas industry.
As the company grew, I realized that true success isn’t just about professional achievements; it’s also about enjoying your personal life. Over time, I found a better balance, allowing me to spend more quality time with my family and friends. Family is the most important thing to me, and I value the moments I can share with them.
I think many entrepreneurs struggle with finding this balance, and without it, they might never feel fully successful. You can build a great company, but if you don’t take care of your personal relationships and well-being, you might feel like something is missing. For me, success is about balancing your career accomplishments with personal happiness. It’s about creating something meaningful at work while also having the time and energy to enjoy the people and moments that matter most in your life.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur isn’t just someone with a great idea or the motivation to start a business; they are, above all, a leader. Leadership is often overlooked in entrepreneurship, but it’s what truly sets successful businesses apart. Starting a company is one thing, but growing it, guiding it through challenges, and inspiring others to help it succeed requires strong leadership.
One aspect of leadership is building a team that shares your passion. It’s not just about hiring people with the right skills; it’s about finding those who are just as excited about the company’s vision as you are. When you have a team that’s equally committed, they’re not just employees—they’re partners in your journey, helping to drive the company forward.
As a leader, your job is to help your team improve. This means recognizing their strengths, encouraging their growth, and holding them accountable when needed. Accountability keeps standards high and promotes continuous improvement. Creating a culture where everyone strives to do their best and values constructive feedback is crucial.
When I first started, I didn’t fully appreciate the importance of listening to others, especially those with more experience. I was focused on my own vision, which sometimes caused me to miss valuable insights. Over time, I learned that being a good leader means being a good listener. Listening to different perspectives helps you make better decisions and avoid mistakes.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
Starting in the oil and gas industry wasn’t easy, especially when it came to earning clients’ trust. In this field, reputation is everything, and clients want to work with someone they can rely on. As a newcomer, I had to prove that my company could deliver reliable services constantly. It wasn’t just about having the right skills; it was about building relationships and a reputation for quality work. Competing against long-established firms made this even harder.
Money was another challenge. We needed funds to invest in the technology and tools required to meet client expectations. These tools, like advanced mapping and data management software, are expensive but essential. Finding the money to make these investments was a constant struggle in the beginning. We had to plan carefully, seek out investors who believed in us, and make tough choices about where to spend our limited resources.
These difficulties motivated me to help start Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) chapters in Fort Worth and College Station. I knew that having access to networking and mentorship opportunities early on would have made my journey easier. YPE offers young professionals the chance to build the connections and trust they need to succeed, without facing the same challenges I did.
What’s one industry trend that excites you?
Technology is making land management and mapping much easier and more efficient. We can make better decisions and manage resources more accurately with tools like data analytics and real-time mapping. This is a growing area with a lot of potential for new ideas and improvements.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self that it’s okay to fail because that’s how you learn. It’s easy to feel down when things don’t work out, but every mistake is a chance to get better. I’d also stress the importance of making connections and building relationships early. Be around people who inspire, challenge, and support you.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One habit that really helps me is balancing work and personal life. I make sure to spend quality time with family and friends, which gives me the energy and clear mind I need for work. Whether it’s a motorcycle ride around Fort Worth or a quiet evening at home, these activities help me unwind and return to work more focused and productive. I also keep up with industry trends to stay ahead. By balancing my personal time with learning, I bring fresh ideas and a new perspective to my work.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Staying active is one of the best ways I manage stress. Whether it’s going for a run, hiking, or doing a quick workout, physical activity helps me clear my mind and feel better. It lifts my mood and gives me a mental break, allowing me to return to work with a fresh perspective. Staying active is key to keeping both my mind and body healthy, especially in a tough industry like ours.
I also rely on my co-founder for support. We’ve built a strong partnership based on trust, so I can delegate tasks when I’m feeling overwhelmed. Knowing I have someone to count on gives me peace of mind and keeps the business running smoothly, even when things get tough. This teamwork is crucial for managing stress and maintaining balance in my work and personal life.
Takeaway
Before starting Forza Resources, Jared gained valuable experience in various oil and gas roles, focusing on land management and planning. His education at Texas A&M University and Sam Houston State University in human resources, criminology, and history adds depth to his professional skills.
Jared is also committed to giving back and shaping the energy industry’s future. He helped start Young Professionals in Energy chapters in Tyler and College Station, offering networking and growth opportunities for future industry work on the Fort Worth ADAM group board until 2023, which highlights his dedication to the industry’s progress and sustainability.
Colorado service advisor Wyatt Leonard offers useful advice for entrepreneurs at any stage. Wyatt’s journey—from being the top student at Justice High School to teaching himself day trading and now working as a Service Advisor at Valley Subaru of Longmont—shows his persistence and growth.
Wyatt’s experience is especially helpful for new entrepreneurs or those looking to improve their businesses. He highlights the importance of having a growth mindset and staying strong when faced with setbacks. His experiences in day trading teach that failures can be valuable learning opportunities. Wyatt shares how he overcame self-doubt and adjusted to new challenges, offering tips on handling uncertainty and staying motivated.
He also stresses the value of daily planning and time management, which can help entrepreneurs be more productive. Wyatt’s examples of balancing work with his personal passions, like sustainable technology and outdoor activities, show that having interests outside of work can lead to greater satisfaction and success. This interview is a great read for anyone looking to boost their entrepreneurial drive and tackle challenges with resilience.
Interview with Wyatt Leonard
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success means growing and finding balance. It’s not a final goal but an ongoing journey of reaching personal and professional milestones while staying true to your values. It took me several years to understand this. After graduating as valedictorian from Justice High School and getting into day trading, I learned that success isn’t just about making money—it’s about always learning, facing challenges, and growing from them.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
Being an entrepreneur means you need to be tough, flexible, and always willing to learn. After graduating high school as valedictorian, I was excited to dive straight into my career. I thought I was ready for the business world, but I soon realized I needed more experience. That’s when I decided to go for a degree, and it made a big difference.
Taking that extra time gave me the knowledge and maturity I needed. As I gained more experience, I became more patient and better at understanding people. Connecting with others, whether they’re customers, team members, or partners, is just as important as being adaptable and resilient. My education and personal growth helped me handle the challenges of entrepreneurship and shaped me into a well-rounded professional.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
When I started day trading, I had a lot to learn. At first, I was excited to own shares of companies I liked. During the COVID-19 pandemic, MEME stocks became popular, driven by social media and online discussions. Many people, with the help of stimulus checks, jumped into the market, seeing opportunities that experienced investors sometimes missed.
It was an exciting time, but it also showed me how unpredictable the stock market can be. I quickly learned that while some trades can bring great highs, others can be disappointing. I had to better manage risks and not let emotions drive my decisions.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The growth of sustainable technology, especially electric cars (EVs), is exciting. EVs do more than save money on gas and cut emissions; they represent a big step toward cleaner and more efficient transportation.
One of the biggest benefits of EVs is the money you can save. Many governments offer tax breaks and rebates, making EVs more affordable. Plus, EVs have fewer moving parts, so they cost less to maintain, meaning fewer trips to the mechanic.
EVs also provide a smoother, quieter ride, which can make driving more enjoyable. Their quick acceleration makes for a fun and responsive drive.
Subaru has made strong progress in the EV market. They’ve developed electric cars that perform well and emphasize responsible practices. Subaru not only offers great vehicles but also cares about the environment and communities. This focus on doing good makes Subaru a company that aligns with my values.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self not to be scared of failing. Mistakes might seem like setbacks, but they actually help you learn and grow. Every time you mess up, you discover something new and get stronger. Challenges teach you things that success alone can’t, and they help you think of new ideas and solve problems better.
Instead of seeing failure as something bad, look at it as part of the journey. Mistakes can push you forward rather than hold you back.
I’d also remind myself to be patient. Growth takes time and is full of ups and downs. But the journey itself can be the most rewarding part. Overcoming challenges brings valuable lessons, often more important than the end result. Patience helps you appreciate your progress and keeps you focused on your goals, even when things get tough.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I always plan my day the night before, setting easy-to-reach goals to keep me focused. I use time-blocking, which means giving each task its own time slot. This helps me manage my work without feeling too busy. Staying organized makes my job in the service industry much easier and less stressful.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
One of my favorite ways to do this is by traveling. Traveling lets me escape my routine, see new things, and spend time with loved ones.
I also make sure to stay active. Whether it’s weightlifting, paddleboarding, or skiing, staying physically fit helps me clear my mind. This has been important to me ever since playing football in high school, where I learned to balance fitness with schoolwork. Staying active helps me manage stress and stay focused.
Taking breaks through travel and exercise helps me come back to work refreshed and with a clear mind. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery and a little movement to handle challenges better.
Takeaway
After finishing high school as the top student, earned a degree from Front Range Community College while exploring day trading and investing.
Wyatt is now a Service Advisor at Valley Subaru of Longmont, helping customers with their vehicle maintenance needs. He uses his problem-solving skills daily while also making time for his personal interests. His interview highlights the importance of good time and energy management for entrepreneurs.
John Ikhaml has established a noteworthy career in the manufacturing industry, leading teams to enhance operations and safety. He began his career as an Engineering Intern at Sheldahl Inc., where he quickly implemented process improvements that foreshadowed his future success. John holds a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he worked on a fuel-efficient engine project.
Since 2017, he has served as the Senior Production Manager at Proto Labs Inc., where he has improved efficiency and innovation through effective management practices. Before this role, he played a key role in improving production and safety at The Bergquist Company and Boston Scientific. He earned a “Lean Leader” certification.
Interview with John Ikhaml
How do you define success, and how long did it take to find it?
Success to me means consistently achieving favorable outcomes while making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. It’s about hitting targets and fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement. Finding success is an ongoing journey that started early in my career and continues to evolve as I encounter new challenges and opportunities.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur possesses resilience, adaptability, and a keen sense of vision. They must pivot when necessary and remain focused on their goals despite setbacks. Effective communication and leadership skills are also crucial, as they need to inspire and guide their teams toward achieving common objectives.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
One of the biggest challenges was earning the trust and respect of more experienced colleagues. As a young engineer, I had to prove my capabilities and demonstrate that my ideas could bring tangible improvements. Additionally, navigating the complexities of manufacturing processes and implementing changes without disrupting operations required a lot of learning and adaptation.
What is one current trend that excites you?
I am excited about the advancement of automation and intelligent manufacturing technologies. These innovations can potentially revolutionize the industry by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving product quality. Embracing these technologies allows us to stay competitive and meet the ever-evolving market demands.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to be patient and embrace every learning opportunity, no matter how small. It’s essential to stay curious and open-minded, as the knowledge and skills you acquire will be invaluable. Also, never underestimate the power of networking and building strong professional relationships.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Maintaining a structured daily routine is key to my productivity. I prioritize tasks, set clear goals, and allocate specific time blocks for different activities. This helps me stay focused and ensures that I make steady progress on various projects without getting overwhelmed.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a step back to reassess my priorities and break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Taking short breaks to clear my mind and engaging in physical activities like a quick walk can also help me regain focus and reduce stress.
Takeaway
John Ikhaml’s journey in manufacturing showcases the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and effective leadership. His contributions to improving production processes and enhancing safety standards have significantly impacted the industry. As he continues to lead and innovate at Proto Labs Inc., John remains committed to driving progress and fostering a culture of excellence in manufacturing.
About John Ikhaml
John is the Senior Production Manager at Proto Labs Inc., where he has improved efficiency and creativity by being a good leader. John has a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
