Women-owned businesses make up approximately 39 percent of all U.S. firms, and employ millions of workers, with recent data indicating around 10 to 12 million jobs are supported by women- owned businesses. October marks National Women in Small Business Month, and the Community News Brief is proud to feature numerous women who own and/or lead small businesses within the region.
To commemorate 2025’s National Women in Small Business Month, the Brief contacted nearly 20 business owners, operators and/or leaders. Those who responded will be shared in upcoming issues.
Shelley Postin, Agency Owner, COUNTRY Financial How long have you owned and/or operated your business?
I have been in business for 25 years.
What is your business' specialty/focus?
We are a multi-line agency. We offer life, home, auto, farm, and commercial insurance as well as financial services.
Why this line of work for you?
I enjoy working with people and helping them secure all of their assets.
What did you do before you were at your current place of employment?
I taught middle school special education and coached at Avon School.
How did you learn this trade/business?
I’ve had a lot of great leaders
and mentors plus a very solid company behind me.
What's your favorite thing about leading this business, and why?
As I stated before, I love working with people and having the ability to give back to my communities.
Due to the nature of this business, I am often able to help when people are dealing with very stressful times.
Biggest challenge(s)?
As most people feel, there are never enough hours in the day. Finding a good work/life balance is difficult.
Biggest Successes?
When I am able to help people when people feel helpless like when someone loses a loved one and I am able to deliver a life insurance benefit. It does not take away the loss or diminish their grieving, but it does allow them some breathing room to grieve and not worry about their finances.
How do you set yourself apart from others who might be doing the same thing?
The saying that “people do not care how much you know until they know how much you care” has been a foundation for my business.
I try to treat my clients as I would my family. I try to explain things in simple terms as we uncover their needs. The bottom line of cost is always important, but I want to put them back to where they were before the claim so will not skimp on coverage just to get the business with the “cheapest” quote.
Goals for your work?
I want to enrich the community and the lives of those living in the community.
Advice to women who want to be in a leadership role in an organization?
Remember to take care of yourself and try to find that work/life balance. You cannot “pour into others if your cup is empty”. Be present, care about the organization you are wanting to lead and be sure to delegate/ask for help. Have good people around you. Do not be afraid to say no to certain roles/ projects if you are unable to give it your best.
