Ever since announcing my decision to step away as American Family Insurance CEO, I’ve gotten a ton of comments from folks inside and outside our organization. It’s been great to hear from so many people. There’s a common theme in those messages, too. “Wow, the company has really grown during your tenure as CEO.” Or, “It’s […]
Read MoreJack Salzwedel
Firsts and lasts
Today is the American Family Insurance annual policyholder meeting. I distinctly remember the 2020 annual meeting. We gathered in person – something hard to fathom just 12 months later. No masks. No social distancing. We were monitoring the pandemic at that time, but it hadn’t really impacted us. Yet. Oh, how things would change. I’ve […]
Read MoreCarrying the lessons of 2020 into 2021
We all want the pandemic behind us. I see what we’re all missing out on daily. I miss seeing family, friends and our people. I want the chance to gather safely – in person – to work, collaborate and learn together. I want to visit the people at each of our operating companies. I’m also […]
Read MoreBe the hope
It’s been a challenging year. As a CEO, parent, grandparent and citizen, I worry the next few weeks and months could be even tougher. On top of a pandemic that is not going away, racial injustices that continue to divide our communities and one of the most contentious elections in our lifetimes – it’s easy […]
Read MoreIt’s the right time
“What keeps you up at night?” That’s a common question from my more than nine years as CEO. While I have multiple accountabilities, I believe my most important job – and the one that’s likely cost me the most sleep – is ensuring my organization has the right talent. I believe it’s the most important […]
Read MoreAmplify Gratitude
“How do you amplify gratitude?” I asked this question recently on Twitterand LinkedIn because I believe in the power of gratitude. It’s an essential element of organizations move forward. Gratitude is built into what we do every day, and how we connect with customers, our communities where we live and work, and with each other. […]
Read MoreUnited as a Catalyst for Change
One of my favorite parts of American Family’s culture statement comes at the end, when the focus turns to our communities. We are a catalyst for change. So people will say: “This is a better community because American Family is part of it.” As American Family’s United Way campaigns draw to a close, I wasthinking […]
Read MoreThe race for a cure is on
My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer about 15 years ago. I watched as she endured surgery and a significant treatment regimen. It showed me just how terrible this disease can be on those diagnosed, but also on family and friends. It changed my life – and my outlook on this disease. Seeing it in […]
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