Skydiving to Success: The Rise of Isabella Varnell, Top Insurance Agent
By Sarah Thompson
At just 24 years old, Isabella Varnell has carved out a remarkable place for herself in the competitive world of insurance in the United States. With her sharp intellect, unwavering determination, and awhite a passion for skydiving, she’s not only a standout insurance agent but also a specialist in niche markets, earning her a spot among the best in the industry. Her journey from a small-town dreamer to a leading professional in insurance sales is nothing short of inspiring, blending grit, education, and a love for adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Early Life and Roots
Isabella was born in Boise, Idaho, a city nestled between rugged mountains and sprawling plains. Growing up in a tight-knit community, she was surrounded by nature’s beauty, which sparked her love for outdoor activities early on. With her auburn hair often tied back in a practical ponytail and her hazel eyes sparkling with curiosity, Isabella was always on the move—whether hiking local trails or, later, leaping from planes as a dedicated skydiver. Her petite yet athletic build, honed by daily training, reflects her discipline both in her sport and her career.
Her passion for skydiving began at 16 when she took her first tandem jump as a birthday gift. The rush of freefall and the serenity of gliding above the earth hooked her instantly. Now, she trains daily at a local drop zone, perfecting her form and chasing the thrill that keeps her grounded in every other aspect of life. “Skydiving teaches me to stay calm under pressure,” Isabella says. “That’s a skill I bring to my clients when navigating complex insurance policies.”
The Spark of a Career in Insurance
Isabella’s journey into the insurance industry began during her college years at Boise State University, where she studied Business Administration with a focus on Finance. She graduated in 2022, at the age of 21, with a solid foundation in risk management and financial planning—skills that would later define her success. While in college, she stumbled upon an internship with a local insurance agency, where she was introduced to the world of life insurance, health insurance, and property and casualty insurance. The idea of helping people secure their futures resonated with her deeply.
“I saw insurance as a way to make a real difference,” Isabella recalls. “It’s not just about selling policies; it’s about giving people peace of mind, whether it’s protecting their home, their health, or their business.” Her internship turned into a full-time role as an insurance sales agent shortly after graduation, and she quickly proved herself a natural in the field.
Rising to the Top
Isabella’s ascent in the insurance industry was meteoric. By 2023, just a year into her career, she had earned her insurance license in Idaho and several other states, specializing in niche markets like cyber insurance and small business insurance. Her ability to connect with clients—understanding their unique needs and tailoring insurance solutions—set her apart. She focused on high-growth niches, such as gig economy workers and outdoor recreationists, including fellow skydivers who needed specialized accidental death coverage for their high-risk hobbies.
Her expertise in these areas, combined with her knack for target market segmentation, allowed her to build a loyal client base. According to industry insights, focusing on niche markets like these can significantly boost an agent’s value by positioning them as a trusted expert. Isabella’s clients, ranging from freelancers to small business owners, appreciate her ability to craft personalized insurance products that address specific risks, such as business liability insurance for contractors or health insurance plans for remote workers.
By 2024, Isabella had risen to become one of the top insurance brokers in the U.S., working independently to represent clients rather than a single company. Her income, bolstered by commissions from insurance sales, placed her among the highest earners in her field, with top agents often surpassing six-figure incomes. Her success stems from her relentless work ethic—she often spends evenings preparing presentations or meeting clients to discuss policy renewals—and her mastery of digital marketing to generate leads. “In this industry, you have to stay ahead of the curve,” she says. “Whether it’s learning about cyber threats or using analytics to understand client behavior, there’s always something new to master.”
A Day in the Life
Isabella’s days are a blend of high-energy skydiving sessions and strategic work as an insurance specialist. She starts her mornings with a jump, weather permitting, at a nearby airfield, where she practices formations or simply enjoys the freedom of the skies. By 9 a.m., she’s at her desk, reviewing insurance applications, meeting with clients, or researching emerging risks like climate-related damages. Her afternoons often involve site visits to assess property insurance needs or virtual consultations to explain coverage options.
Her approachable demeanor—marked by a warm smile and a genuine interest in her clients’ stories—helps her build lasting relationships. “People trust you when they feel understood,” she says. This philosophy has led to a steady stream of referrals, a testament to her skill in delivering tailored insurance solutions.
Education and Certifications
Beyond her degree, Isabella pursued certifications to sharpen her expertise. She earned the Associate in Insurance Services (AIS) designation, which deepened her knowledge of personal and commercial lines. She’s also working toward the Associate in Insurance Data Analytics (AIDA) to leverage data in assessing risks, a skill increasingly vital in the insurance industry. These credentials, combined with her state licenses, have made her a formidable player in the field
Why Insurance?
For Isabella, the insurance career path offers stability, growth, and the chance to make a tangible impact. “It’s rewarding to help someone protect what matters most,” she says. The industry’s projected growth—6% for insurance sales agents and 21% for actuaries by 2031—ensures her skills will remain in demand. Plus, the flexibility of her role allows her to balance her career with her passion for skydiving, a sport that keeps her grounded in its own exhilarating way.
Looking Ahead
At 24, Isabella Varnell is just getting started. She dreams of opening her own insurance agency, focusing on innovative insurance products for emerging markets like insurtech and climate risk coverage. With her blend of expertise, charisma, and a love for skydiving, she’s poised to soar even higher in the insurance industry.