In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Radke, CEO and co-founder of Accelerant, to explore how the company is revolutionizing the specialty insurance industry from the inside out. Jeff shares his personal journey, from growing up around family-owned businesses to navigating the complexities of the insurance ecosystem. We talk about the inefficiencies plaguing traditional models, the challenges of raising capital with discipline, and how Accelerant is creating a modern infrastructure to empower MGAs.

From rebuilding the value chain to reshaping relationships in the insurance world, Jeff offers a candid, thoughtful look at what it means to grind out meaningful change — not with flashy slogans, but with quiet determination, humility, and deep domain expertise.

Key Quotes

"We’re not trying to be clever — we’re trying to be better." – Jeff Radke, on Accelerant’s mission

"The product that gets delivered is the product that the underwriter creates. We believe underwriting is the hero of the story."

"We’re trying to change everything — but only what’s broken."

"This is a long game. It's not a 5-year vision. It’s 10 or 20 years. And we're patient."

"I wanted to work with people that I respect and trust, to build something we believe in."

"It’s hard to build quietly, but it’s the right thing to do."

Resources

• Learn more about Accelerant
• Read about Accelerant's recognition on the Forbes Fintech 50
• Book Jeff mentioned: Good to Great by Jim Collins

About the Guest

Jeff Radke is the CEO and co-founder of Accelerant, an insurance platform built to empower underwriters and transform the way specialty insurance is underwritten, distributed, and serviced. A veteran of the insurance industry, Jeff previously held leadership roles at Argo Group and was CEO of Ariel Re, part of the Goldman Sachs group. Known for his calm, disciplined approach and belief in long-term thinking, Jeff is on a mission to build a better insurance experience — one that values trust, expertise, and alignment above all.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/