01 Apr Career Success in Insurance and Strategy with Janise Graham
When Janise Graham entered the insurance field, it wasn’t because someone recruited her. It wasn’t for the money or the title. It was because she didn’t understand insurance—and she figured most people didn’t either. That simple spark of curiosity launched a lifelong career filled with learning, leadership, and a mission to help others make sense of a traditionally confusing industry.
Today, Janise is a respected Business and Insurance Strategist, founder of Entrepreneur’s Insurance Services, and author of the book Leaving in Style: Business Succession on Your Terms. She holds two professional designations: LACP (Life and Annuity Certified Professional) and CLTC (Certified in Long Term Care). And at 60 years young, she’s still learning and growing.
Making the Complex Simple
From the beginning, Janise was driven by one goal: to help people understand insurance in clear, simple language. She saw how intimidating financial and insurance terms could be, and she wanted to change that.
“I figured if I didn’t get it, a lot of other people didn’t either,” she said. “So I made it my mission to explain things in basic English.”
That mission continues today. Through her insurance firm and coaching work, she helps business owners with succession planning, long term care strategies, and financial protection—all in a way that real people can understand.
The Highs, the Lows, and What Keeps Her Going
Like many trade professionals and entrepreneurs, Janise’s path has had its ups and downs. While she finds great joy in helping others and seeing the lightbulb go on, she admits there are days when she wishes she could reach more people.
“The positive days outweigh the others,” she says. “That’s what keeps me going.”
Her story reminds us that purpose, not perfection, is what drives long-term success.
Advice for Future Insurance Professionals
Janise’s biggest advice for anyone entering the field? Get a mentor early on.
“You can learn so much if you stay open,” she says.
Before launching her own firm, Janise worked at the home offices of two of the nation’s largest insurance companies. That experience gave her a solid foundation and introduced her to valuable mentors—something she highly recommends for anyone starting out.
She encourages new professionals to begin with a traditional insurance company, where they can build knowledge and find support.
Her certifications, LACP and CLTC, reflect her dedication to continued learning. She’s also working toward another certification tailored to her current clients and services.
Leaving in Style—More Than a Book Title
Beyond her work in insurance, Janise is also a Business Strategist and coach. Her company, Leaving in Style, offers business coaching for entrepreneurs who want to build long-term success. The company name was inspired by her book, which focuses on business succession planning—a topic every business owner needs to understand before it’s too late.
Through it all, Janise stays true to her mission: helping people take control of their future and plan for life on their terms.
Want to Learn More About Coaching and Trade Support?
If you’re exploring a career in insurance, business coaching, or another skilled trade, we’re here to help. Trade Works USA offers coaching, mentorship, and guidance to support you every step of the way.
Visit our website to learn more and contact us with any questions about how we can help you get started.