GOOSEHEAD INSURANCE
Written by Dave Danielson | Photos by Nested Tours
For many, the idea of switching careers after nearly two decades in a well-established field might seem daunting. But for Jeff Stokes, the transition from the oil and gas industry to insurance was not just a leap of faith—it was an opportunity to redefine his career and embrace a new challenge. As the owner of the Goosehead Insurance Stokes Agency in Oklahoma, Jeff has turned his commitment to service and education into a thriving business, helping clients navigate the complexities of insurance with ease.
A Career Shift Amidst Uncertainty
Jeff’s story begins in the oil and gas industry, where he spent nearly 20 years before deciding to make a significant change in his mid-30s. “When COVID hit, I realized that it was the perfect time for me to transition into something new,” Jeff recalls. “The oil and gas industry had been great, but I wanted a new challenge, and insurance seemed like the right fit.”
The decision to leave a secure career behind wasn’t easy. However, the uncertain times created by the pandemic served as a catalyst for change. With a strong desire to help people and make a meaningful impact, Jeff decided to pursue a career in insurance, despite the challenges of entering a competitive industry from scratch.
“At first, it was a challenge getting people to trust me and understand what I could offer them,” he admits. “But I was determined to prove that I could provide valuable services and help my clients make informed decisions.”
Becoming a Fiduciary for Clients
As an independent agent with Goosehead Insurance, Jeff’s approach to insurance is all about transparency and education. Unlike traditional agents who may work for a single carrier, Jeff works with more than 40 different providers, ensuring that his clients have access to a wide range of options.
“I’m here to be a fiduciary for my clients,” Jeff explains. “That means I’m not just selling a product for the sake of making a sale. My job is to help people understand their options, make sure they’re comfortable with their choices, and guide them through the process of selecting the right coverage for their needs.”
For Jeff, the focus is always on educating his clients. He takes the time to explain the details of policies, ensuring that they understand the coverage they’re getting and how it works for them. “I like to walk my clients through the process,” he says. “When they’re first-time homebuyers, for example, they may not fully understand the intricacies of their home insurance policy. I love being able to educate them and help them feel calm and confident about their decisions.”
This approach has been key to Jeff’s success. Clients appreciate the time and effort he puts into making sure they’re informed and comfortable with their choices. It’s this commitment to education and service that has earned Jeff a reputation as a trustworthy, professional agent who genuinely cares about his clients' well-being.
A Sense of Accomplishment
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Jeff’s work is the ability to help first-time homebuyers. Buying a home is a huge milestone, and Jeff takes pride in guiding clients through the process of obtaining the right insurance coverage. “When I work with a first-time homebuyer and see the relief on their face after they understand the policy, it gives me a sense of accomplishment,” Jeff shares. “Knowing that I’ve helped them make an informed decision and set them up for success is incredibly rewarding.”
The feeling of helping others achieve peace of mind is what drives Jeff every day. “It’s not just about selling a policy,” he says. “It’s about building trust, educating people, and making a difference in their lives.”
Building a Team, One Step at a Time
Although Jeff currently operates as an individual agent, he has big plans for the future and is always looking for talented individuals to join his team. “I’m always on the lookout for people who are interested in the insurance industry and are willing to put in the work to get established,” he says. “This business requires a lot of dedication and drive, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.”
For Jeff, building a strong team is about more than just hiring employees—it’s about finding people who share his commitment to customer service and education. “I want to work with individuals who understand the value of building relationships and putting clients first,” he explains.
Family Support and Work-Life Balance
Throughout his journey, Jeff has had the unwavering support of his wife, Amanda. “I couldn’t do what I do without her,” he says. “When I first started in insurance, I was working long hours—6 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. My wife was incredibly supportive during that time, and I truly thank her for that.”
The couple’s son, Daylan, was off to college at the time, which allowed Jeff to focus on getting his business off the ground. “Having that support system at home made all the difference,” he says. “It allowed me to put in the time and effort necessary to get established.”
Outside of work, Jeff enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing his hobbies. “I like to play hockey,” he says with a smile. “I used to work for the Dallas Stars when I lived in Dallas, and I’ve always loved the sport. I also used to cycle a lot, and I try to find time for that whenever I can.”
A Commitment to Trust and Integrity
At the core of Jeff’s approach to business is a commitment to integrity. He wants his clients to know that they can trust him to provide honest, straightforward advice. “I want my clients to walk away knowing that I’m someone they can rely on,” Jeff says. “I pride myself on being transparent and always putting my clients' best interests first.”
In fact, Jeff is so committed to honesty that he’s even advised clients to take their business elsewhere if they find a better offer. “I’ve had clients send me quotes from other companies, and if I can’t match or beat the quote, I’m the first to tell them. I’d rather they walk away with the best deal than feel pressured into something that isn’t right for them,” he explains.
The Future of the Stokes Agency
Looking ahead, Jeff is excited about the future of his business and the opportunity to continue helping people with their insurance needs. As he expands his agency and builds his team, he remains focused on providing the highest level of service and support to his clients.
“I’m here to help people protect what matters most to them,” Jeff says. “Whether it’s their home, their car, or their family, I’m dedicated to finding the best coverage and providing the peace of mind they deserve.”
Contact
Goosehead Insurance
Today!
Email: Jeff.Stokes@goosehead.com
Phone: 405-803-8132
