Lisa Skinner, president of Brokerage Services Inc. in Herman, NE, has had a lifelong connection to the financial services industry. Her journey began early, influenced by her father, who was a General Agent for over 50 years. Lisa started working during school breaks, taking on tasks such as filing, computer work, and scanning files to digital formats. These early experiences set the foundation for a long and fulfilling career in the industry.

The flexibility that the financial services industry offered, particularly the ability to balance a career with family responsibilities, was a major draw for Lisa. She admired how her father was able to attend every one of her events without missing a beat, showing that work and family could coexist harmoniously. This made her pursue a career where she could have the same balance.

Lisa’s connection to NAIFA is deeply rooted, as her father was a long-time member of the Lincoln chapter. When she decided to get involved, she joined the Omaha chapter, eager to network and connect with others in the industry. Her extroverted nature made her an ideal fit for this professional community, and she found that NAIFA provided not only valuable industry insights but also meaningful connections.

Throughout her career, Lisa has found fulfillment in helping clients and agents protect what matters most. The flexibility of owning her own agency has allowed her to create a work-life balance that suits her needs, while the ability to make a meaningful impact on clients’ financial security keeps her motivated and focused. Specializing in Life Insurance, Lisa is passionate about the products she offers, even owning every product herself. This deep commitment to life insurance comes from its role in protecting families and providing long-term financial stability.

NAIFA’s political advocacy is critical to Lisa’s business and her clients’ success. She believes that the association’s efforts in protecting cash value life insurance and preserving the tax-free death benefit for beneficiaries provide a vital “seat at the table” with state and local representatives. This advocacy ensures that the interests of financial professionals and their clients are safeguarded.

Lisa is also dedicated to political involvement and grassroots efforts. She takes the time to personally know her district representative and actively participates in key NAIFA events, such as the Washington, D.C. fly-in and Legislative Day at the Nebraska state capital in Lincoln. This engagement allows her to be a strong advocate for the issues that matter most to her industry.

Her involvement with NAIFA has been a cornerstone of her success. Lisa joined the Omaha Association in 2008 and quickly took on a leadership role, eventually serving on the board. She also became involved with the LILI Subcommittee, further expanding her influence and knowledge within the industry. Her active participation in NAIFA has been a driving force behind her professional growth.

While Lisa acknowledges that the financial services industry can sometimes feel isolating, she emphasizes the importance of building a strong support network. She encourages new professionals to surround themselves with experienced agents and mentors who can offer solid advice and guidance. Having a mentor can make a significant difference in navigating the challenges of the industry.

For Lisa, NAIFA has been not just a professional organization but also a community of like-minded individuals who share her dedication to making a difference. Some of her closest friends are NAIFA members from across the country, and she believes the association provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with others who are committed to advancing the industry and serving their clients.