She Means Business - July 2025

Chasing Forward, Honoring Now

Realize deeply that the present moment is all you will ever have. - Eckhart Tolle

Ever heard that phrase “A flower doesn’t know it’s blooming?”  So often I think in terms of ‘point A to point B’, from seed to flower - no in between - completely negating how beautiful grace in the growing can be. I recently had an epiphany when I completed a fourth adaptation of a painting I first created ten years ago. After finishing this fourth variant, I went back to look at all the other versions I had done over the years and sighed with gratitude at how far I had come. My first attempt at this painting was the best I could do at the time - and I was actually quite proud of it.  A decade later, at the quality I am creating now - I can only admit that I started with very humble beginnings - but I improved on EVERY ONE! 

OK, back to my epiphany. I am a bloom in progress, and that is something to celebrate! I would have robbed myself of this feeling I have right now if I didn’t have the confidence to suck at something new all those years ago. I’ve started reflecting on what other areas of my life I have grown in, and what NEW ventures I should boldly begin knowing that mastery takes time - but it WILL happen. Chasing forward becomes a little less intimidating and more exciting understanding that the starting line is just that. I dove into the insurance industry at 37 years old, barely able to spell the word, let alone advise on it.

Five years later - same reflection, same sigh of gratitude. There is such beauty in the messy middle, where I am now - where you are now. Even though my focus is on the future me, becoming more, moving forward, I am learning to stay rooted in the present, and staying open to new possibilities. I hope this letter gives you pause to fondly reminisce on your accomplishments; however your journey looks - and truly drink in the now because of that journey. And in that same hope for you- that you have the faith to step forward, even when it’s scary, because ‘then, now, and next’ are constants in life, so let’s bring day one energy today! I cannot wait to see where I will be in another ten years- for this very same feeling- in insurance, in painting, and in life. Let’s get excited, ladies. Start. Shine. Soar.

- Tristan Evans 

Coverage Forms:

What's the Difference?

Occurrence Form

(Safety net that covers any accidents) 

• Covers incidents based on when they happen, not when it was reported.
• Provides coverage even if the claim is filed years after the policy ends, as long as the incident occurred during the policy period.

Claims-Made Form

(Flashlight that only shines on incidents if they are reported) 

• Covers incidents based on when claims are reported, not when they occurred.
• Coverage is limited to claims reported during the policy period.
• Includes a retroactive date, covering incidents occurring after a specified date.
• May need additional tail coverage for claims reported after policy expiration.

She Means Business Book Recommendations

'How Big is Your But?' by Rene Brent

Most of us do not know what beliefs we hold about ourselves. We are not taught how to manage the emotions our false beliefs create. How do we look within, gain awareness, and get rid of the blocks or Big Buts? Rene teaches you how to get out of your own way so you can begin to live your life with joy and purpose.

'The New Gold Standard' by Joseph A. Michelli

After an exclusive all-access tour behind the scenes of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Michelli emerged with the key principles any business can use to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Learn the innovative methods Ritz-Carlton uses to create—and continually improve—its world-class service. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Worker's Comp Experience Modifier

What is an Experience Modifier in workers’ compensation?

An Experience Modifier (or Mod Factor) adjusts your workers’ comp premium based on your company’s past claim history compared to industry averages. A Mod above 1.0 means higher-than-average losses and results in a surcharge. A Mod below 1.0 reflects better-than-average performance and lowers your premium.

When is a business eligible for an Experience Modifier?

Eligibility typically requires being in business for at least 3 years and meeting state-specific premium thresholds. New businesses start with a neutral modifier of 1.0.

How can I improve my Experience Modifier?

Reducing claim frequency and severity can lower your Modifier. Effective strategies include:

• Return-to-work programs

• Safety training and manuals

• Clear employee policies

• Safety communication and incentive programs

Worker's Comp Case Study:

Roofing is Dangerous Work

While working on a three-story commercial roofing project, Maria fell over 25 feet due to an improperly anchored safety line. Despite wearing a harness, she slipped on loose gravel while lifting insulation and landed on concrete.

Injuries:

• Partial paralysis (paraplegia)
• Broken ribs, pelvic fractures
• Internal bleeding
• Traumatic brain injury (mild cognitive impairment

Claim Details:

• Filed by family during ICU stay
• Multiple surgeries, rehab, and long-term care
• Lifetime PTD payments
• Full medical coverage
• Home/vehicle accessibility modifications

Outcome:

Maria now uses a wheelchair and requires part-time care. Workers’ comp covers her ongoing needs. A separate lawsuit against the subcontractor led to a substantial settlement for pain and suffering.

Tanya Hodges | Senior Lending Assistant

PlainsCapital Bank - Willow Park

Tanya Hodges moved to Parker County in 1990 from North Richland Hills. She works at PlainsCapital Bank in Willow Park, after transitioning from Texas Bank Weatherford. With 48 years of experience, Tanya’s focus is Commercial, Consumer, and SBA loans, along with Marketing for East Parker County.

Tanya takes pride in her loyalty to her employers—spending a decade or more at each of the four banks she’s worked for. Throughout her career, she’s been guided by trusted mentors who helped shape her understanding of the industry and provided invaluable insight. With banking constantly evolving, Tanya embraces a positive mindset and values teamwork, appreciating her colleagues who share the journey.  

 "We are always BETTER TOGETHER! Meet and network with women in your communities who can help you grow your business and help them in turn." 

Tanya’s advice to young women aspiring to become leaders is to stay involved. Start networking, build connections with women in your community, and support one another’s growth.  

Keep learning—the world is constantly changing, and staying current with new ideas is key to growing your business. Most importantly, be present and available.

Additional Resources

SMB June Newsletter

The Plexus Groupe

Connect with Tristan

Connect with me!