Insurance can sometimes seem like a dry topic, but Jenna Suslak, a Haverhill mom, is anything but dry! Jenna’s enthusiasm in every conversation is catching….whether you’re chatting with her about motherhood, a weekend adventure, or her career at Duffy Insurance. I’m excited to introduce you to Jenna because she gives great advice on everything from the best local coffeeshops, to how you should review your insurance coverage as your family grows.
Where are you from originally and what town do you live in now?
I’m originally from Natick, Massachusetts and I now live in Haverhill with my husband, son and two dogs.
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
I have one son, Theodore (Theo), who is a year and a half old.
What’s your favorite family activity on the North Shore?
I love discovering new farms, playgrounds and parks around the North Shore. I’ve found one of the best parts about being a mom is exploring different places with my son and re-experiencing the “kid” activities.
Where’s your favorite place to eat and/or shop on the North Shore?
One of my all time favorite restaurants is the Blue Ox, in Lynn. I also love finding local coffee shops on my way to work or on the weekends. A couple of my favorites so far are Zumi’s Espresso & Coffeehouse, in Topsfield and Ipswich and Roasted Coffee Bar in Haverhill.
Tell us a little bit about your background and how you got started at Duffy Insurance.
I started in the insurance industry right out of college in 2015, working as a claims adjuster at a carrier in Beverly. From there, I began a position as a marketing representative at Hanover Insurance Group. In this role I was able to work with independent insurance agencies all across Massachusetts.
My time at Hanover sparked my interest in independent agencies and the value they provide to individuals, families and businesses. Then, in 2021, I had the opportunity to work for a local independent agency, Duffy Insurance as an Insurance Agent and Marketing Specialist.
As a mom yourself, what’s the most important thing you think families need to consider when selecting insurance?
This may sound like a no-brainer but…it’s crucial you have the proper coverage and adequate limits to protect you, your family and your most valuable assets, should the unthinkable ever happen. It is tricky to say exactly what the “proper” coverage and limits are, as all families are unique, but a few examples I’d ask you to consider would be:
- If you are involved in an auto accident and need a rental car while yours is not drivable, do you have substitute transportation coverage on your policy? If so, is the daily rental limit enough to cover a car that is big enough for your family?
- If your home suffers a large loss and is uninhabitable for months, do you have an adequate Loss of Use limit to cover your families living expenses until you can move back into your home?
- Do you have family get-togethers, birthday parties or playdates at your home? If so, do you have an excess liability policy to cover medical bills and lost wages should one of the guests severely injure themselves at your home and file a claim against you?
Should parents reevaluate their insurance as their family grows?
Absolutely. As your family expands and changes, so do your insurance needs. Whether it be having another child, the in-laws moving in, your teenager getting their license, adopting a dog, etc., all these life events increase your exposure to a loss. Every year you should work with your independent agent or insurance carrier to review your policies, discuss any changes and if any updates are needed to your insurance policies.
Fun Fact: Did you know Massachusetts requires all licensed Household Members be listed on your auto policy?
What are the benefits to working with a local insurance agency?
Having a local independent agent is comparable to having a local dentist, real estate agent or hair dresser. You have a trusted advisor you can go to with questions, concerns or help with your insurance.
Duffy Insurance Agency is also unique in the sense that when a new, current or prospective client calls or comes into the office they will always be able to speak with a knowledgeable agent who can assist. We pride ourselves on the service we provide customers and guarantee when a customer reaches out, they will speak with a Duffy employee not a robot, third party or phone tree.
The relationships that are built with your local independent agent are a huge benefit as well. At Duffy we have clients who’ve been with us for decades and now their children and even grandchildren are clients as well. Forming these relationships gives our clients the confidence and trust in us that we have their individual, family and/or business interests in mind and will ensure they are properly protected.
Where can parents find Duffy Insurance offices on the North Shore?
Duffy Insurance Agency has seven locations across the North Shore and is continuing to grow! Our offices are located in Lynn, Peabody, Salem, Marblehead, Georgetown, Chelmsford and Gloucester.
Any tips for balancing work & motherhood?
* Double espresso shots in your coffee!
* Leftovers!
What is the best piece of mom advice you ever received?
Have fun with it, cut yourself some slack and know that most of the time, your mom instinct will be better than any piece of advice you come across.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you need some “me” time?
Horseback riding! I’ve been riding on and off since I was 7 and I even majored in Equine Business and Management in college. I just started riding again this year and I’m so happy I did. Saturday mornings at the barn are considered my “weekend therapy!”
Find Jenna and Duffy Insurance online at duffyins.com, on Instagram @duffyinsurance and on Facebook @DuffyIns. Email [email protected] to learn more and get a quote today!
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This post is sponsored by Duffy Insurance.