Let's Get Surety

Hosted by National Association of Surety Bond Producers

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Episodes

162

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

If you have ever gone to a school or a park, attended a large sporting event, rode on a bus, driven on a highway, bought imported goods, or sent a wire transfer, you have been protected by the surety product. On the second and fourth Tuesday of each month Kat Shamapande, the host of Let's Get Surety will be joined by fun co-hosts and exciting and engaging guests who will share their stories, insights, and expertise on the world of surety and how it affects our everyday lives! If you are interested in learning more about surety and surety bonds, this is the podcast for you!

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60 recent

June 9, 2026Episode 16123 min

#161 The Story Behind the Stats: Collaboration, Data, and Advocacy in Surety

What role does data play in shaping the future of the surety industry? In this episode, Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum welcome back Ryan Work, President & CEO of the Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA), to discuss the industry's growth, the importance of advocacy, and the recent data trends. They explore how effective collaboration and informed storytelling can influence policymakers, especially with significant funding initiatives on the horizon. Tune in for an inside look at the numbers behind the industry and the impact they're making beyond them. Find out more about the previous EY study mentioned during this episode. With special guest: Ryan Work, President & CEO, The Surety & Fidelity Association of America Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

May 26, 2026Episode 16030 min

#160 Stability Through Purpose: A Conversation With NASBP President Monica Donatelli

What happens when a banker discovers a calling to enter the surety industry? Join us as Monica Donatelli shares her unexpected journey from banking to becoming the Vice President, Surety Department Manager at IMA and NASBP's President. This episode dives into her transformative experiences from her involvement with the NASBP 5-15 Leadership Committee, advocacy efforts, and leadership development in the surety space and how these have shaped her Presidential term's theme, Stability Through Purpose. Discover how Monica turned challenges into opportunities and why she believes that advocating for surety at the local level is crucial for the industry's future. Tune in for inspiration and insights! With special guest: Monica Donatelli, Vice President, Surety Department Manager, IMA, Inc. Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

May 12, 2026Episode 15929 min

#159 It's All About the Cupcake: Cash Flow Management in Construction

How vital is cash flow to the construction industry? In this episode, Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum engage with CPA Brad Robinson of Ward & Robinson, who unravels the intricacies of cash flow management for contractors. They discuss essential strategies to enhance cash flow, including billing techniques and the significance of understanding contract terms. Highlighting the unique challenges construction professionals face, this conversation is packed with practical insights that can help ensure profitability and sustainability in construction projects. Tune in for valuable guidance! With special guest: Brad Robinson, Partner, Ward & Robinson LLC Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

April 28, 2026Episode 15836 min

#158 From Design Build to Progressive Design Build: Inside AIA's Evolving Contract Frameworks

In this episode, Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum are joined by Ken Cobleigh of AIA Contract Documents to explore the evolution of design-build and progressive design-build project delivery. Together they unpack how AIA contract documents are structured to support these models. The discussion highlights key differences between traditional and progressive design-build, including contract structure, timing of pricing, and the shift toward iterative design and early stakeholder collaboration. With insights into industry trends and a look ahead to upcoming document developments, this episode explains why understanding these frameworks is essential for contractors, producers, and surety professionals. Learn more about AIA Contract Documents and explore NASBP equivalent bond forms mentioned during this episode. With special guest: Kenneth Cobleigh Esq., Senior Vice President & Counsel, AIA Contract Documents Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

April 14, 2026Episode 15733 min

#157 Tariffs on Trial: What Supreme Court Ruling Means for Government Contractors

Tariffs are back in the spotlight—and the stakes just changed. What does the Supreme Court's latest ruling on presidential tariff authority mean for government contractors—and for the surety professionals who support them? In this episode, Government Contract Attorneys Jacqueline Unger and Ryan Boonstra of PilieroMazza dive into the implications of a recent ruling that struck down certain tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Listeners will discover how contractors can navigate the changing landscape of tariffs, the potential for future impositions, and critical steps to safeguard their rights and contracts. Don't miss these essential strategies for success! Read more on this topic in their recent blog post, "SCOTUS Limits Presidential Tariff Powers: Key Takeaways for Government Contractors." With special guests: Jacqueline Unger, Partner, PilieroMazza and Ryan Boonstra, Associate, PilieroMazza Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by EMC Bond!

March 24, 2026Episode 15626 min

#156 Navigating Uncertainty: Pressure Points on the Economy and the Construction Industry

What are the hidden and sometimes not-so-hidden forces shaping the economy and, in turn, the construction industry today? In this episode, Kat Shamapande and co-host Mark McCallum delve into current economic factors impacting construction, featuring insights from economic experts Eric Gaus and Sarah Martin of Dodge Construction Network. They explore the effects of inflation, labor shortages, the Iran conflict, and political pressures on economic activities, including construction trends like the proliferation of megaprojects. Learn how these forces could redefine the construction industry's near future and what strategic opportunities may lie ahead for construction companies amid uncertainties. For more information on these and other points, check out the NASBP blog posts authored by our guests, "The Megaproject Boom," "Federal Reserve Under Pressure," and "Prolonged Middle East Turmoil Will Slow Down Construction." With special guests: Eric Gaus, Chief Economist, Dodge Construction Network and Sarah Martin, Associate Director of Forecasting, Dodge Construction Network Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

March 10, 2026Episode 15532 min

#155 Economic Echoes: Predicting the Unpredictable

Is the U.S. economy headed for a recession in 2026? Moody's Analytics Director Chris Lafakis joins Kat Shamapande to break down the latest outlook, from sluggish job growth and AI-driven disruption to shifting trade policy and falling mortgage rates. He explains why 2026 looks stable, what could derail expansion, and how construction, housing, and global markets factor in. Hear the risks, opportunities, and what 2027 may bring. With special guest: Chris Lafakis, Director, Moody's Analytics Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

February 24, 2026Episode 15435 min

#154 Bridges of Trust: Unraveling the People Power in Surety Success

How do strong relationships within underwriting teams and between underwriters and producers shape the surety business? In this episode, we sit down with Bob Bowman of Holmes Murphy, Justin Tomlin of FNIC Group, and Rocky Pofahl and Cory Hamling of EMC to explore the vital collaboration between home office, field underwriters, and producers — and why trust, clarity, and communication drive success. Don't miss this look at the people and relationships inside the business of surety! With special guests: Bob Bowman, Surety Underwriting Manager, Holmes Murphy Justin Tomlin, Senior Vice President – Surety Manager, FNIC Group Rocky Pofahl, Assistant Vice President-Bond Underwriting Superintendent, EMC Cory Hamling, Bond Director, EMC Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP

February 10, 2026Episode 15323 min

#153 Construction Risk Mitigation: Explore Modern Funds Control

How can funds control serve as an important tool in construction risk mitigation and elevate bonding capacity? In this episode of "Let's Get Surety," Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum sit down with Marcus Carter, president of La Mesa Fund Control, to explore proactive tools that streamline payments, boost transparency, and help contractors grow. Learn how modern funds control can deliver real-time insights and minimize risk. You may also want to check out this Surety Bond Quarterly Article, "Changing Attitudes Towards Funds Control Companies," for more insights! With special guest: Marcus Carter, President, La Mesa Fund Control & Escrow Inc. Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP

January 13, 2026Episode 15225 min

#152 The Corner Office: A Conversation With Arch's Steve Ruschak

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader in the surety industry? NASBP is excited to continue the series of episodes exploring that question, titled "The Corner Office: Conversations with Surety Leaders." In this episode, we are joined by Steve Ruschak, Executive Vice President - Surety at Arch Insurance Group Inc., to explore Steve's dynamic career path, leadership lessons, and surety insights—from Bermuda to boardrooms. Hear how he's shaping Arch's future and giving back to the industry. With special guest: Steve Ruschak, Executive Vice President - Surety, Arch Insurance Group Inc. Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP