If you’ve spent time around independent insurance agencies, there’s a good chance you’ve heard the name Kevin Wheeler. His career stands as proof of what’s possible when curiosity, innovation, and a genuine desire to help others come together.
From Family Agency to Industry Trailblazer
A proud Purdue graduate, Kevin started his insurance journey in 1986 when he offered to help at his family’s agency, Cardinal Insurance. What began as a temporary role quickly turned into a lifelong mission to help agencies evolve.
Kevin’s insurance journey began in 1986. Fresh out of Purdue University, he stepped in to help at his family’s agency, Cardinal Insurance. What was supposed to be a short-term role quickly became something more. He discovered a deep interest in how agencies function, and more importantly, how they could improve.
Recognizing early on the power of technology, Kevin led Cardinal’s transition to comparative rating and agency management software in the late ‘80s. This forward-thinking move positioned the agency years ahead of the curve. By the time he purchased the business in 1994, it was fully automated and operating without paper, a rarity at the time.
Leading Beyond the Agency Walls
Kevin didn’t keep that knowledge to himself. Over the years, he partnered with Vertafore on several research and development initiatives. In addition, he served as Chair of the National NetVU Board of Directors, helping shape national conversations around insurance technology. His efforts earned him the prestigious Louie E. Woodbury Jr. Award, twice.
Beyond the accolades, his mission has always been clear: help agencies run better, smarter, and more sustainably. That means identifying inefficiencies, managing change, and protecting what matters most: people and their livelihoods.
Practical Coaching for Real Results
Today, Kevin shares his insights through the 12-Week Agency Coaching Program, a hands-on experience that helps agency leaders improve operationally, strategically, and financially. The program is practical, no-fluff, and grounded in lessons he’s learned firsthand.
Not only does he teach best practices, he helps owners implement them. Participants leave with more than just ideas; they leave with momentum.
More Than a Coach
When asked what keeps him motivated, Kevin doesn’t hesitate. It’s the people. “We’re the second responders,” he says. “When the fire trucks leave, we’re the ones helping families and businesses get back on their feet.” That deeper purpose is what drives him every day.
Known for making complex ideas simple, Kevin has a rare ability to translate big-picture strategy into actionable steps. Whether he’s guiding an agency through a system change or fine-tuning workflows, his approach is always clear, collaborative, and focused on results.
Life Outside the Office
Kevin lives in Indiana, where he enjoys diving into business case studies, solving puzzles, and giving back to his community. His advice to anyone new to the insurance world?
“Run… run fast… or stay and discover an industry that’s recession-proof, endlessly interesting, and full of people who genuinely care.”
Kevin Wheeler is proof that once you check into the world of insurance, you just might not want to leave.
Book a meeting with Kevin to see how he can help your agency grow with clarity and confidence.
