My story
Hey, I’m Eli.
You’re probably wondering why anyone would choose to work in insurance. Long hours, stress, endless sales targets. Sounds like a blast, right?
My path here wasn’t exactly typical. But that’s what makes it a good story.
“Go to college or pay rent”
Right out of high school, my parents gave me the classic ultimatum: go to college or start paying rent. I had zero interest in school at the time, so I got a job with a plan to save up and travel the world.
That plan didn’t quite work out. Somehow I ended up studying for one of the hardest insurance exams out there instead.
68%, then 92%
I failed it the first time. A 68%. Ouch.
With a push from a mentor and a lot of serious studying, I went back and passed with a 92%. That exam taught me something I still believe:
Insurance is complicated, but anyone can understand it if someone takes the time to explain it properly.
Learning the business from the ground up
I started out helping seniors with health insurance, life insurance, long-term care, and annuities. I loved that work, but I wanted to do more. So I dove into auto, home, and business insurance too. There was a lot to learn, and I was hooked.
The island detour
Then came the big twist. My girlfriend, now my wife, was accepted to veterinary school in Grenada. So I moved to a small Caribbean island to support her dream, only to find out I couldn’t get a work visa.
For a while, I lived my best island life: surfing, snorkeling, the whole nine yards. But I knew I needed to keep building toward something. So I applied to college, graduated with a business degree, and kept growing my career in insurance.
Building something of my own
After years of working my way up, I landed my dream job managing 150 insurance agencies across the Carolinas. Then the company merged with another business, and I had a choice to make: stay, or take a risk.
I took the risk and started my own agency, Oak City Insurance. It gave me the freedom to help people the way I always wanted to: honestly, personally, and without a sales quota breathing down my neck.
Why I do this now
Today I’ve been licensed for over 15 years, I shop more than 20 A-rated carriers, and I’ve helped over 1,000 people across North Carolina find the right coverage at a great price.
I know insurance can feel overwhelming, especially with celebrity ads everywhere telling you what to do. Great athletes, sure, but I wouldn’t ask them about your auto policy. That’s why I write my guides and blog: to give you real, straightforward advice from someone who actually knows the industry.
Whether it’s auto, home, life, or something else entirely, I’m here to help you understand your options and make the choice that’s right for you.
Start with one of my guides
Let’s make insurance a little less confusing.
Whenever you’re ready, I’ll shop your coverage and walk you through what I find. No pressure, and you’ll only ever hear from me.