Today we’d like to introduce you to Jackie Bogac.
Hi Jackie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, I felt somewhat lost like many young people do. I studied and graduated with a degree in something that I decided wasn’t meant for me after all. I started working full time at UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) within their Insurance division as a customer service representative. I did not know what my future looked like professionally; over the next several years I bounced around many career paths to pursue but none seemed to work out.
However, I was really great at what I was doing at UPMC and while I tried quite a few times to grow within UPMC, I was never selected for the role. Things all changed when I looked outside of the company and even though it wasn’t a drastic change, it was change enough. I began a position, still in health insurance, but on the sales side of things. From there everything fell into place and many years later I find myself as a business owner. Sometimes you don’t need to change everything, but one small change can make a huge difference.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Every great story is never a smooth road; but bumps are what make a great story. Early on in my career I faced a ton of adversity involving struggles in the workplace with managers micromanaging, struggling financially, and trying to figure out the long term. Even once I found my place, and my business, I still struggled. Sales is grueling at times, it can wear on a person due to constant rejection and it’s relentless need for determination. Despite the challenges, the only way to stay open is to keep going.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a Health Insurance Broker, residing in Columbia, South Carolina. I help individuals, families and businesses with their health options choosing from various health insurance carriers across many states in the country. I am originally from Pittsburgh and this is where I started. I moved to Columbia in May of 2025.
I lead with a service mindset and stay in contact with my client base constantly whether it’s wishing them a Happy Birthday on their special day, checking in to make sure their coverage is working well or sending out at holiday card. I want them to know that they have someone who cares about them and their well-being.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Risk taking is a must, especially as a young person. I love new experiences and the opportunity to try something different. I would say that risk taking is essentially what got me to where I am at today, It takes thoughtful thinking, precise planning but mostly, faith.
I have taken many risks but the biggest risk to date was the move. Moving from my hometown to Columbia took me completely out of my comfort zone and has given me an opportunity for growth. God placed me where he can use me and my skills to the fullest capacity.
I would say the 2nd biggest risk was leaving my W2 job and starting as an independent broker. This was a decision that required planning and strategy. I knew pretty early on that it was the right decision but even still, I have doubts in myself every now and again.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaclynnbogacinsurance
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaclynnTSell/
