Meet Your Healthcare Professional Liability Wholesaler

David Huss

Co-Founder & Chief Production Officer

Founded Ethos: December 2004
Based in Seattle, WA

As the Co-Founder and Chief Production Officer of Ethos Insurance Partners, my decades of experience in the insurance industry have come in handy. My insurance journey began on the reinsurance brokerage side with Sedgwick Payne. Five years later I took a position as an EPLI production underwriter at an Aon-owned MGU by the name of Professional Risk Co. Eventually, I came to realize the wholesale side was where I needed to be.

My exclusive focus on healthcare professional liability placements began in 2003. In December 2004 I co-founded Ethos Insurance Partners with my friend and business partner, Jonathan Waterman. We have been committed to continually refining our business approach to add value for our retail customers ever since.

Over the years I have developed a comprehensive understanding of virtually every professional liability exposure to be found in the healthcare industry. I am also well-versed in the products, appetites, and coverage capabilities of our many carrier partners. This enables me to expertly assist with the placement of a wide range of healthcare-related risks for my retail customers.

The most gratifying aspect of my role at Ethos is helping our production support staff solve our retail customers' healthcare professional liability-related problems efficiently and effectively. I take pride in assisting them with procuring tailored solutions in a timely fashion that address the applicant’s specific needs, and in so doing bring peace of mind and business success to our retail customers.

On a more personal note, I find joy and satisfaction in building things. Whether it's undertaking a home addition or renovation project, creating outdoor living spaces, or nurturing business ventures, I appreciate the challenge, the process, the physical labor (when applicable), and the satisfaction of enjoying the end result. I am particularly proud of having participated in the building of Ethos from the ground up.

I also find myself these days focusing more and more on the creation of good meals shared with friends and family. Lately, I have been honing my barbeque skills with guidance from my slow-and-low BBQ mentor, Jason Esparza. There is something deeply rewarding about sharing something I have worked to create with people I care about and making memories in the process.

Finally, I have a growing appreciation for good red wine, especially as it relates to food pairings. I am no expert! But I know what I like, and I enjoy trying wines I’ve never had before. In my opinion, a well-made wine has the power to enhance just about any experience.

Ethos Insurance Partners is a reflection of who I am in many ways. I look forward to continuing to build Ethos via collaboration with like-minded staff and serving our retail customers for years to come.

Jonathan Waterman

Co-Founder & Chief Operations Officer

Founded Ethos in December 2004

Duvall, Washington

As the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Ethos, I have been part of the company since its inception in 2004. My insurance career began in 1992 and worked in various roles until becoming an underwriter for PHICO Group, specializing in medical liability insurance. I gained valuable experience as a med-mal underwriter, which led to an opportunity in 1999 with Frontier Insurance Group, once again focused on the medical malpractice business. Finally, I transitioned into the wholesale market in 2000 with National Specialty Underwriters, Inc. before eventually co-founding Ethos with David Huss.

I bring a unique skillset and expertise to my role. My time as an underwriter allowed me to identify patterns in critical data, enabling me to develop practical and efficient processing systems over time. This expertise has been instrumental in driving operational excellence at Ethos. Throughout my career, I have shared my knowledge and insights through various avenues. I have written numerous blog articles addressing specific issues in the medical malpractice market. Additionally, I have had the privilege of being a guest panelist at events such as PLUS and other industry conventions.

Outside of work, my true joy comes from spending time with my wife and family. Home, to me, is not just a place but about the people who make it special. Furthermore, I embrace variety and have enjoyed exploring numerous hobbies over the years (music, watersports, adventuring & more), finding pleasure in the diverse experiences they offer.

My favorite part of my job is the moment when a new customer recognizes the distinctive work of our team and verbalizes it for the first time. Similarly, knowing that the staff at Ethos enjoys their work here and contributes to improving our customers' experiences fills me with joy for the company that David and I have built. As the COO, I am especially proud when agents comment on the ease and efficiency of working with us when compared to other healthcare professional liability wholesalers.

Mike Lenosky

Client Executive

Started at Ethos: June 2016
Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

With a strong educational background from Penn State, I bring a unique blend of analytical skills and ethical principles to my role as a Client Executive at Ethos. Since initially joining the company in June 2016 as a Support Specialist, I have been committed to upholding the values that define our organization and delivering exceptional service to our clients. The company structure at Ethos allowed me to be mobile and push myself, as I worked through the roles of Account Manager and up to my current role as a Client Executive. This progressive journey within Ethos has provided me with invaluable insights into our clients' needs and a deep understanding of how our solutions can drive their success.

As a Client Executive, I excel at analyzing complex situations and determining the best course of action to achieve our clients' goals. I take pride in crafting tailored insurance strategies and navigating intricate policy details to provide our clients with the guidance and support they need. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact our services have on their businesses and lives.

When I'm not immersed in the insurance world, you'll likely find me on the golf course or driving range. I have aspirations of joining the PGA Tour, but my 15 handicap keeps getting in the way. Even if I can't make it to the pros, I can always find solace in a well-executed drive or a perfectly sunk putt.

Beyond my golfing adventures, I enjoy staying apprised of current events and the ever-evolving political landscape. It's important to have a well-rounded perspective on the world around us, and I find it intellectually stimulating to delve into these topics and engage in meaningful discussions.

Similarly, I am fascinated by history and have recently been in a deep dive into World War I and World War II. The sacrifices made during those turbulent times are not to be forgotten, and I believe it's essential to learn from history and honor the memory of those who endured unimaginable hardships.

Joining Ethos has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our mission of providing ethical and innovative insurance solutions. As a Client Executive, I remain steadfast in upholding our core values, delivering exceptional service to our clients, and providing them with the strategic guidance they need to navigate the complexities of the insurance landscape. With a commitment to ethics and a focus on building strong and lasting relationships, I am dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the highest level of support and expertise.

Betty Shilliam

Account Manager II

Started at Ethos: April, 2009
Based in Duvall, WA

After graduating from Kinman Business University, I worked in many different industries including banking, trucking, and computer gaming until I made the move to insurance in 1999 where I worked as a Customer Services Representative for a retailer focused on Healthcare/Medical Professional Liability (HPL). In 2003, I transitioned to an Account Manager role at a wholesale insurance company specializing in Healthcare Professional coverages and eventually moved to Ethos in 2009 where I have been ever since. 

With well over two decades of experience in HPL, I have developed a deep understanding of the various types of coverages and exposures associated with the field. This expertise allows me to effectively serve our clients and find suitable coverage solutions for even the most challenging situations. 

My interests include arts and crafts and reading. Crafting projects allow me to engage in hands-on projects and express my artistic side while reading allows me to explore different worlds and expand my knowledge. 

I take pleasure in collaborating with our retail partners to fulfill the specific requirements of our insured individuals. Negotiating with underwriters to obtain essential coverage for challenging placements of Physicians and Facilities brings me a sense of fulfillment. Being part of Ethos and its mission is highly rewarding, as I am dedicated to delivering exceptional service to our customers and working together with our team to meet their insurance needs. I take pride in our work and strive to make a positive impact in the field of Medical Malpractice insurance.

Terrell Brooks

Account Manager I

Started at Ethos: August 2022
Based in Phoenix, AZ

Prior to joining Ethos, I worked in real estate investment for 4 years. During that time, I gained valuable experience learning how to develop and maintain up-to-date market knowledge, provide pre-and-post-sales support, and maintain long-term client relationships with folks who don’t need you every day. Similarly, I learned the value that I can personally provide to customers simply by engaging in active communication, conducting business honestly and transparently, and tailoring my approach and services to individual clients’ needs. Transitioning to the insurance industry has been a rewarding career change, and I am grateful for the chance to apply my expertise to further Ethos' mission.

With a keen eye for detail and a meticulous nature, I thrive in my role as an Account Manager. I take pride in my ability to identify and address even the smallest nuanced issues, ensuring that our clients receive personalized and tailored insurance solutions. The ever-evolving world of Healthcare Professional Liability insurance has proven to be unexpectedly exciting, with its constant changes and opportunities for learning. I embrace these challenges and remain dedicated to providing a higher level of service to our valued clients.

Outside of the insurance realm, I have a strong appetite for new experiences and enjoy taking on various challenges. I'm the type of person who will pull over when driving and explore new places or activities that catch my attention. Similarly, I regularly sign up for classes on topics that pique my interest. This sense of spontaneity keeps life interesting and ensures that I am always evolving.

I am an avid music lover, appreciating the creative process of turning nothing into something extraordinary. My eclectic playlist spans different genres, and regardless of personal preference, I can almost always give others an exciting new recommendation. We have music playing in the house just about 24/7, which often leads to impromptu dance battles with my wife and kids.

Health and wellness have always been a significant aspect of my life, though, like many others I slipped up during the pandemic. Getting back on track, I believe in maintaining a balanced approach to overall well-being, including healthy eating, regular workouts, and nurturing mental health. Sports have played a pivotal role in my life, and I love getting out to go play just about anything, even if I totally stink. 

Joining Ethos has provided me with a fulfilling opportunity to merge my professional expertise with my personal values. I am committed to delivering exceptional service to our clients, staying updated on industry changes, and continually enhancing my skills to better serve their needs. I am dedicated to upholding our mission of providing ethical and innovative insurance solutions, ensuring our clients receive the highest level of care and support.

Jordan Obrastoff

Account Manager I

Started at Ethos: October 2022
Based in Habersham County, GA

While Ethos marks my first venture into the insurance industry, my prior roles as a contract manager at SAP-Concur and a team leader in the United States Army have laid a solid foundation for my current position.

I bring a unique skill set and expertise to my role. Throughout my career, I have held diverse positions spanning various industries, which has equipped me with effective communication skills across all walks of life. This breadth of experience has nurtured a deep understanding of the "average" American, while other roles honed my keen eye for detail and pattern recognition. Combined with my personable demeanor, these attributes enable me to skillfully match customers with insurance products that align with their specific needs.

Outside of work, I have a passion for exploring folk instruments, with over nine unique instruments in my collection, including the mountain dulcimer and jaw harp. Although I may not be a virtuoso, I enjoy the process of learning new sounds and expanding my creative horizons. A visitor would notice that my office is adorned with a collection of small Lego sets, providing a touch of whimsy and keeping my hands occupied during focused work. While the themes of my collection may change over time, fantasy and Star Wars sets have remained consistent favorites.

With a family full of gardeners, I have embraced composting as a personal endeavor. Constructing multiple compost bins and establishing a thriving composting system has been incredibly fulfilling. This experience has also allowed me to share my knowledge and assist my neighbors in embarking on their own composting journeys. 

One of the aspects I find most fulfilling in my role is learning about the diverse landscape of medical practices. Learning about new procedures and techniques and gaining insights into different medical fields broadens my knowledge and understanding of this highly specialized field, which in turn allows me to provide better assistance to our customers by tailoring insurance solutions to their specific needs.

Hailey Rogers

Compliance & Support Manager

Started at Ethos: July 2017
Based in Seattle, WA

My career took an unexpected turn when I joined Ethos in July 2017 as a Support Specialist. Prior to joining Ethos, I studied fashion merchandising at both Washington State University and Miami International University of Art & Design. Although my journey into the insurance world was unconventional, my previous roles as an office administrator and scheduling coordinator for The Goddard School equipped me with a solid foundation for my current position. I was later promoted to the Compliance position in October of 2019 as I had quickly mastered the support specialist role and was ready to take on more responsibility. Soon after I became the manager for both the compliance and support specialist positions, which has taught me a great deal about being in a leadership position and has contributed greatly to my experience at Ethos. 

I’ve been told that efficiency and organization are my superpowers. I thrive on processing information swiftly and accurately, ensuring that every task is executed seamlessly. My strong interpersonal skills allow me to connect with colleagues and clients effortlessly, fostering productive relationships built on trust and open communication. In a world that is constantly evolving, I embrace new challenges and eagerly take in new knowledge, consistently expanding my expertise along the way.

What truly fuels my passion at Ethos is the dynamic blend of managing the support specialist role and spearheading compliance initiatives. As the manager of the support specialists, I relish the opportunity to build and refine processes, infusing them with efficiency and effectiveness to deliver exceptional support to our valued customers. Simultaneously, the compliance aspect of my role presents exciting challenges that push me to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that our operations adhere to industry standards and regulations. I am relentless in my pursuit of streamlining and optimizing our current processes, seeking innovative solutions that propel our team and organization forward.

Beyond the professional sphere, the title of "mom" is a role that I wholeheartedly embrace and cherish. It has swiftly become the most fulfilling and rewarding aspect of my life, surpassing any other endeavor I have pursued. The boundless love, unbreakable bonds, and profound joy that come with being a mom are unmatched.

In addition to motherhood, athletics and travel have both been lifelong passions of mine. Although I did not pursue basketball at the collegiate level, I still savor the exhilaration of picking up a ball for a quick scrimmage or engaging in a friendly game of "horse." While my roots lie in the Pacific Northwest, my heart finds solace in the vibrant landscapes of southern Florida, where my mom and sisters reside. Exploring the enchanting Florida Keys and immersing myself in the unique charm of Stiltsville allows me to rejuvenate and create treasured memories with my loved ones, and I cannot wait to form those memories with my daughter someday.

My journey at Ethos has been a remarkable one, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the company's mission. As a Compliance and Support Specialist Manager, I am committed to driving excellence and making a positive impact within my role. By continuously striving for growth, both personally and professionally, I aim to elevate the success of Ethos while providing exceptional service to our valued customers.

Jackie Rhynard

Support Specialist

Started at Ethos: January 2020
Based in Woodinville, WA

Prior to joining Ethos in 2020 as a Support Specialist, I enjoyed a 13-year career as a licensed Esthetician. While my previous role as an Esthetician didn't involve the nitty-gritty administrative work associated with my current position, it provided me with firsthand experience working in an environment with the very sort of people whom our clients help insure. With such a people-facing role, I loved the feeling that I received when helping my clients solve issues that they held deep. It was this passion for helping people that led me to my current position at Ethos, where I have the opportunity to assist our valued customers in finding insurance solutions for tricky cases.

In addition to my front-lines experience in spas, I also studied business administration at Edmonds College to round out my skillset. With the combination of experience and education, I possess a solid foundation which allows me to excel in my role as a Support Specialist.

Anyone looking in can quickly see that my world revolves around my beloved Frankie, a 14-year-old Boston Terrier/French Bulldog mix. Dogs hold a special place in my heart, and none more so than Frankie. It never ceases to amaze me how the unconditional love and companionship dogs provide us can bring immense happiness to our lives.

Unsurprisingly, as someone who’s always worked in customer-facing roles, I am deeply interested in people’s stories. My passion for people and their stories surfaces in my passions for thrifting and travel. When thrifting I find that there is a unique satisfaction in discovering that perfect vintage chair or hidden gem and giving it a new life while imagining its past. Similarly, I seize the chance to immerse myself in different states, cities, and their people. Chasing the sun and experiencing the wonders of new places rejuvenates my spirit and broadens my perspective.

Being part of Ethos is a source of pride for me. Contributing to our mission and working alongside a team dedicated to providing exceptional insurance solutions is truly rewarding. I remain committed to delivering excellence, making a positive impact, and ensuring that our customers receive the outstanding service they deserve. It is a privilege to be a valued member of the Ethos community and to have the opportunity to assist our customers in their insurance journey.

Pepper Bain

Operations Specialist

Started at Ethos: May 2022
Based in Seattle, WA

Having previously owned a small business, I have firsthand experience of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the critical role that exceptional customer service plays in their success. Ethos' customer-focused strategy and mission resonate deeply with me, as I believe in the power of building strong relationships and exceeding customer expectations. 

One of the aspects I most cherish about my role is the continuous learning and growth opportunities. At Ethos, there is never a shortage of things to do and learn. The collaborative environment, where employees are helpful, thoughtful, and always willing to share their expertise, has been instrumental in expanding my knowledge. I am inspired by the curiosity and love for learning that unifies the Ethos staff, and it fuels my own passion for understanding the intricacies of the insurance industry as well as how Ethos operates.

While my professional endeavors are fulfilling, my greatest joy in life is spending time with my family. As a mother and wife, I treasure moments shared with them, whether it's riding dirt bikes, embarking on travel adventures, or exploring the great outdoors through hiking. All these family activities came together, and in 2019 I obtained my motorcycle endorsement (something I never thought that I would say). Since then, I’ve been regularly going out with my husband on motorcycle adventures and continuing to explore various states with my family.

Joining the Ethos team has been a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our mission of providing ethical and innovative wholesale insurance solutions for retail agents and their healthcare clients. As an Operations Specialist, I remain dedicated to ensuring seamless operations, fostering exceptional customer service, and upholding the values that make Ethos a trusted partner for our clients.

TJ Payne

Marketing

Started at Ethos: April 2022
Based in Seattle, WA

With a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Western Washington University, I have honed my skills in understanding consumer behavior and translating complex data into meaningful narratives. While Ethos marks my foray into the insurance industry, I have been actively engaged in the field of marketing since 2019 when I was hired as a marketing assistant by my alma mater. In 2021, I further expanded my expertise by working as a marketing specialist supporting Amazon's demand-side platform (DSP). Prior to going back to school in my late 20s, I spent the better part of a decade in the service and hospitality industry.

What truly excites me about my role is unraveling the challenges faced by our customers, the problems that have proven elusive to other wholesalers. I thrive on cracking the code, gaining a deep understanding of customers’ needs, and demonstrating how Ethos can provide innovative solutions. I also love it when things flow in the opposite direction, and I learn about what problems retail brokers are having and parlay that information to help Ethos to understand and shape ourselves to better serve customers’ needs. It's immensely satisfying to help customers solve their problems and help them achieve their goals.

In addition to my professional pursuits, rock climbing holds a special place in my heart. It is a passion that brings me immense joy and fulfillment, allowing me to push my limits and conquer new heights. Although I have been taking time to heal from an injury, I eagerly anticipate the day when I can once again embrace the challenge of the wall and experience the thrill of reaching new summits.

Geek culture has always been a constant source of inspiration and fascination for me. I wholeheartedly immerse myself in its captivating realms, exploring the depths of this vibrant culture. Recently, I embarked on an exciting creative venture by launching a podcast dedicated to the art of painting miniatures. This unique and niche interest not only allows me to express my artistic side but also provides me with a platform to engage with a community that shares my enthusiasm.

Another aspect of my life that has shaped me is my dedication to the DIY music scene. While I may not actively play music anymore, attending shows remains a cherished part of my life. The energy, creativity, and sense of community that come alive in those venues resonate deeply with me.

Joining Ethos has been an exciting chapter in my career journey, and I am proud to contribute to our mission of providing innovative insurance solutions. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to support the growth and success of our clients. With a keen focus on delivering value and making a positive impact, I am dedicated to promoting the exceptional services and solutions that set Ethos apart in the industry.