Fred Abernathy’s career journey is undoubtedly defined by resilience. Before he started working with Farmers Insurance® as an agency owner, he worked in the auto sales industry. His work ethic and determination quickly led to a promotion; he ascended from Sales Consultant to Sales Manager and was on the fast track to become a location general manager. During this time, he also started a successful business with his ex-wife. However, Abernathy encountered an unexpected roadblock that changed the course of his personal and professional life.
After being stricken with an illness, Abernathy had to have his toes amputated on his right foot. He was prescribed medication that led to the loss of his kidney function, and he went on dialysis and received disability benefits. In addition to contending with medical issues, his wife also asked for a divorce. Throughout these trying times, Abernathy took refuge in his faith. When an opportunity arose to advance his career, he didn’t look back.
“While living in Gary, Indiana, a former coworker from the dealership called me,” he says. “He’d recommended me for an opportunity that he was being recruited for but thought I’d be a great fit for it.”
Abernathy’s now-district manager, Nate Hildner, called him shortly after he learned of the opening, and they got the ball rolling. The first two years at his agency presented a new set of challenges. Abernathy continued his dialysis appointments, which meant he couldn’t get to the office until later in the day, three days a week. He also was committed to picking up his daughter from school in the afternoon. Nevertheless, Abernathy persisted, reaching milestones like earning the title of Topper Club agent in 2022 and 2023.
“With all that was going on in my life, I had to remain resilient and move forward,” he says.
Here, Abernathy shares why he decided to become an agency owner, how he made a career pivot into full-time insurance work, and his advice for those striving to step into leadership roles.
Why did you decide to become a Farmers® agency owner? And why are you excited to continue to grow your agency?
I decided to become a Farmers agent because it combined several of my passions. First, my love of sales. Second, I’m able to be an advocate for the community that I serve. Next, I can educate that same community on how and why transferring wealth to the next generation is so important. Finally, out of all the insurance companies that were recruiting me, Farmers had the best support team and the best path to owning your own business.
Becoming a Farmers agency owner involved making a career pivot into full-time insurance work. How did you make this pivot, and do you have any advice for others who are hoping to make similar career pivots?
Being able to pivot is a vital part of my life and any successful person’s life. Being stiff, rigid, and not forecasting will be the death of a person, business, or any living being. I embrace the changing environment and love that every day brings a different adventure.
Since joining the Farmers family, you’ve already been recognized for your great work and become a Topper Club agent. Could you tell us your favorite part of being a Topper Club agent as well as your advice for others who are hoping to become a Topper Club agent like you?
My favorite part is the trip—and all the festivities that come with it! My best advice is to bet on yourself, and do the work.
You also have a long and successful history of being a business owner—including being a nail salon owner and now a Farmers agency owner. Do you have any advice for others who are hoping to become owners or leaders?
As a business owner, you have to be a leader, not just a manager. You need to know your team and each of their motivations. This takes some intentionality and dedication to observe and talk to your team. I say team because if everyone feels like they play a role in the success of the business then they’ll put in better effort. Also, understand that each person on your team must be managed differently according to their learning styles and personal motivations.
One of the things that you’re known for is how you answer your phone with: “It’s a great day to be amazing.” Could you tell us more about why you do this, and how it helps set you up for success?
When you face death and you're blessed each morning to wake up, it’s a great day to be amazing. I make sure to never forget it, and everyone that I speak to will hear it too.