Michael Cokins has always believed in the power of mentorship, and now, after years of transitioning from hospitality to insurance, he’s dedicated to helping the next generation of insurance brokers and claims adjusters thrive. Having navigated his own career pivots, Michael understands the challenges that come with changing industries, and he’s committed to offering his insights to make those transitions smoother for others. Through mentorship, he hopes to guide young professionals as they build their skills, adapt to new environments, and find success in the insurance industry. For Michael Cokins, it’s about paying it forward and helping others discover their potential.
Michael, you’ve had quite a diverse career path. How has your approach to leadership evolved over time?
Over time, my leadership style has changed a lot. When I first started managing at Golden Corral, I thought being a leader meant leading by example—being the first one in and the last one out, and making sure everyone was doing their job. But after working with HandsOn New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina, I realized leadership is more about lifting others up. Now, in my role handling claims and investigations, I focus on listening and mentoring. I’ve learned that when you give people the tools and confidence to make their own decisions, the whole team gets stronger and more motivated.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career, and what did you learn from them?
When I started at State Farm in 2007, I was lucky to have a mentor who really guided me. They had been in the insurance business for a long time and showed me how important it is to stay flexible. In this field, things change fast—whether it’s new rules, technology, or what customers want. The biggest takeaway for me was that if you want a long career, you have to keep learning and adapting. Being good at your job isn’t enough; you have to keep growing.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career, and how did it pay off?
Without a doubt, the biggest risk I took was transitioning from hospitality management to insurance after Hurricane Katrina. It was an unexpected career pivot, and I wasn’t sure if my skills would translate. But that time spent volunteering in New Orleans opened my eyes to how impactful the insurance industry could be. I realized that I could help people recover from disaster, just like I saw families trying to rebuild their lives after Katrina. That risk paid off when I joined State Farm—it gave me a purpose-driven career where I could make a real difference.
What trends do you see shaping the future of your industry, and how are you preparing for them?
The biggest trend I’m noticing is how much we’re starting to rely on technology for handling claims. Things like artificial intelligence are really changing the way we look at damage, process claims, and talk to customers. It’s all about making things faster and more efficient now, so I’m making sure to keep up with the latest tools and software. But I also think the human side of insurance is important. Even though technology makes things easier, connecting with people and understanding their needs will always matter.
What failure taught you the most, and how did you bounce back from it?
When Hurricane Katrina shut down the Golden Corral I was managing, it hit me hard. We had an amazing team, and losing that felt like a big setback. But going through that taught me to be resilient. It showed me that sometimes, failure can push you toward something new. That’s when I started volunteering, which eventually led me to a career in insurance. I got back on track by focusing on helping others, and that gave me a fresh purpose in my work.
What habits or routines do you follow that contribute to your success?
I’m a big fan of starting the day with a routine. I always kick things off with some exercise—usually a round of golf or a quick workout. It helps me clear my mind and get ready for the day. I also make sure to catch up on the latest industry news to stay in the loop. Learning is a regular thing for me, whether it’s through a course or a seminar. And before I wrap up the day, I spend a few minutes reflecting on what went well and what I can improve. It’s a simple routine, but it works!
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects or goals on the horizon that you can share?
I’m really looking forward to growing in my job at State Farm, especially as we start using more technology in claims and investigations. I’m also eager to take on more leadership roles, both at work and in my community. I’ve been working on a mentorship program to help young professionals in the industry, which is something I care about a lot. Outside of work, I’m planning a golf trip to Pebble Beach—I always love combining my love for travel and golf!
Key Takeaways
Michael Cokins excited to launch a podcast soon, where he’ll share insights from his years in the insurance industry, breaking down complex topics into everyday language. Alongside that, he’s also planning to release short video tutorials, giving viewers an inside look at how he approaches claims and investigations in Houston. It’s his way of giving back to the community and helping people better understand the insurance process. Whether you’re in the industry or just want to learn more, you’ll soon be able to follow along with practical tips and stories from Business Insiders.
