1. Let’s start with the origin story — what inspired you to start Empire State Warranty?
Honestly? The dealers I worked with in my previous tenure within the automotive industry. I really loved going out on a day-to-day basis and building professional relationships while helping them grow their revenue in different areas of their finance department. What I didn’t love was the corporate bureaucracy I constantly had to battle — between what was best for my team and what was best for our dealers. The only way to solve that while still loving what I do was to build my own company from the ground up, with a vision for what a TPA should be — both for our partners and for our internal team.
2. What were some of the early challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Fear — that was a big one. I invested my entire life savings into building this brand, and that’s a scary thing to do. But I focused on what I stood to gain if I made it work, and what I’d regret if I never tried. It turned out to be the best decision I ever made. For any entrepreneur out there: let fear motivate you. Let it drive your work ethic. That’s what will carry you to where you want to be.
3. What makes ESW different from other warranty providers in the industry?
Our people. Business 101 says you need a great product and a great process — but even more importantly, you need great people. I don’t think many companies check all three boxes at a high level. I believe we do. And that’s why our dealers trust us long-term — because they know we’ve got their back.
4. ESW has grown rapidly in a short time. To what do you credit that growth?
Trust. When dealers call us, their situations get handled. They know who to talk to, and they know we’ll get it done — without disrupting their workflow. From sales to ops to claims, the consistency and responsiveness are real. That, plus our aggressive rates and innovative offerings, make life easier for F&I managers and drive better margins for dealers. When your team is making more money and your customers are happy, the word spreads. That’s how we grow.
5. How do you define the culture at Empire State Warranty? What values drive the team?
Our motto is: Do the right thing, always. That’s the foundation of our culture. It creates accountability, transparency, and a real sense of trust. Our team becomes a group of problem-solvers — people who want to be the solution, every time.
6. Empire State Warranty is known for putting customers and dealers first — how do you keep that commitment as the company scales?
Relationships are everything in this business. If they’re healthy, it’s easy to stay committed. The key is hiring the right people and building the right processes. Efficiency matters — for dealers, repair shops, and customers. If we keep executing at a high level, our promise stays intact even as we grow.
7. Can you talk about the importance of the Diamond Dealer Program and what it means to you personally?
It’s my way of saying thank you. Our Diamond Dealers are the foundation of who we are, and this is how we celebrate that. It’s a bit old-school in that we go all-out — great venue, great experience, real investment. But the learning, the networking, the fun — it all adds up to an event that’s becoming a must-attend in our industry.
8. What upcoming products or changes are you most excited about in 2026?
Definitely the Diamond Dealer Event in June. The Dealer 20 Group is one of my favorite parts. I get to sit back and listen while dealers openly collaborate and share what’s working. It’s incredibly valuable.
9. What advice would you give to a new dealer just starting out with ESW?
Communicate with us. Change is hard — we get that. There’s a learning curve when you start using our programs. But if you’re open and upfront about your needs, I guarantee our team will step up and help you elevate your dealership.
10. Outside of work, what motivates or inspires you personally?
Becoming the best version of myself — every day. The worst feeling I could imagine is reaching the end of my life and having regrets. If I can look back and know I gave it everything I had, I’ll be at peace.
11. Looking back, what are you most proud of in the ESW journey so far?
Building this team. The people we’ve brought together are incredible. They’ve become like a second family to me, and seeing that culture grow is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
12. And finally, what’s your vision for the future of Empire State Warranty?
To completely disrupt this space — first in New York, then regionally, and eventually nationwide. We’re here to raise the bar for what a warranty provider should be.
