09/01/2026
In this groundbreaking episode, we welcome two leaders of the global insurance and financial planning ecosystem - Bonnie Godsman, CEO of GAMA Global, and Naji Haddad, Founder of BLIS Global Solutions.
Highlighting their strengthened collaboration and joint presence in Cyprus, we explore how these two leaders are revolutionizing insurance professional development worldwide through education, networking, and leadership excellence.
What You'll Discover:
Bonnie shares her deeply personal story - how her father's passing revealed the true nobility of our profession and why financial security means dignity in the face of life's greatest challenges.
The shocking truth: insurance advisors rank in the bottom 3 professions in public perception but top 3 among those who have worked with us. Learn why education and professionalism are key to closing this gap.
Naji's transformation moment: the phone call that changed everything and why "anyone who says no, it's my mistake, not theirs" became his philosophy for success.
The 1.35% wake-up call: discover why regional insurance pe*******on is low and what this opportunity means for professionals.
Why GAMA is making Cyprus its European gateway in 2026 and how this positions the island as a hub for insurance excellence across three continents.
The brutal truth about recruitment: a global retention rate of only 16%. Learn the systems and processes successful agencies use to flip this statistic.
The "Three I's" that make insurance the perfect career for Gen Z: Independence, Impact, and unlimited Income. Why we're not telling this story loud enough.
From "you're crazy, Naji" to 40+ countries: the inspiring story of how BLIS Global went from a dismissed idea to an international movement.
The 10 professions framework: why insurance is the foundation (Maslow's pyramid) and how collaboration with lawyers, bankers, and auditors creates unstoppable value.
This conversation is not just about two organizations coming together. It is about elevating an entire profession, changing public perception, and creating a future where "I want to be in insurance" is something young people proudly declare.
Whether you are a seasoned agency manager, a new advisor finding your way, or considering a career in financial services, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, recruitment, technology, and the true purpose of our profession.
🌐 ABOUT THE GUESTS:
Bonnie Gottesman - CEO, GAMA Global
With 25 years in the insurance industry and 11 years as CEO of GAMA Global, Bonnie leads an organization operating in 25 countries, dedicated to developing insurance leaders worldwide. Her personal experience with loss transformed her understanding of the profession's true nobility and purpose.
Naji Haddad - Founder, BLIS Global Solutions
A pioneering force in Middle Eastern insurance education, Naji transformed from a commission-focused agent into one of Lebanon's largest life insurance portfolio builders. In 2018, he founded the Beirut Life Insurance Summit (now BLIS Global), bringing world-class insurance education to a region hungry for professional development.
🎙️ ABOUT INSURANCE TALKS:
Insurance Talks is Cyprus's premier podcast bringing together insurance professionals, industry leaders, and experts for in-depth conversations about the business of protection, leadership, innovation, and the future of financial services. Hosted by Panagiotis Sofocleous, founder of Cyprus Insurance News.
This episode wouldn't be possible without the support of our sponsors:
✨ Cosmos Insurance
✨ Anytime Cyprus
✨ KKERS Traffic Accident Laboratory
✨ SoEasy Insurance
✨ DHD Insurance
✨ Ideal Insurance
✨ Palmyri Insurance
✨ Premier Loss Adjusters & Surveyors
✨ Nafaides Insurance Agency
✨ Agridiotis Insurance
✨ Fiery Success
💬 Join the Conversation!
What's your biggest takeaway from this episode? Are you ready to see insurance as the noble profession it truly is? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
