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About
My work is personal. As a husband, father, licensed broker, and former real estate and mortgage professional, I protect the people, homes, and responsibilities that matter most.
Independent Life Insurance Broker
"I help families make clear coverage decisions before the need becomes urgent."
Licensed in 17 states
CA License #4473269
NPN #21651876
Cortland and Hitomi Connell with their two children.
Protection with Purpose
I have spent much of my life helping people navigate important decisions.
And it's taken different forms over the years... through real estate, mortgage, social work, and of course, through my work in life insurance. I care about people understanding what they are doing and why it matters. My work in insurance helps my clients move forward with greater confidence and ease.
For my clients, coverage decisions are not only financial. They are about family, home, responsibility, legacy, and peace of mind. That is why I take the time to ensure this process feels personal, thoughtful, and clear... not rushed, confusing, or sales-driven.
Why Clients Choose to Work with me
Independent Guidance
As an independent broker, I help clients compare options across multiple carriers rather than steering them toward a single company’s product shelf.
My approach results in a better fit across different goals, budgets, and underwriting situations.
Real Estate and Mortgage Perspective
My background includes deep experience as a Licensed Real Estate and Mortgage Broker.
That perspective is especially valuable when protection decisions are closely connected to the home, the mortgage, and the family’s broader financial picture.
A More Human Process
Major financial decisions deserve a calm and consultative approach.
My role is to help you understand the trade-offs, ask the right questions, and choose coverage with clarity rather than pressure.
What to Expect
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A thoughtful conversation about what you want to protect and why it matters
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Guidance across term, permanent, and cash value life insurance strategies
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Access to multiple top-rated insurance companies and underwriting options, not just one company’s shelf
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Clear explanation of trade-offs so you can make decisions with confidence
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A more personal, supportive process from review through application
Appointed by Top-Rated Carriers
Licensed in 17 States
Covering 60% of the U.S. population
AK, CA, CO, FL, HI, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA, WV
Professional Background
Before focusing on insurance and retirement strategies, I worked in real estate and technology. I held leadership and revenue roles, built partnerships and advised clients in environments where trust, timing, and communication mattered.
That experience still shapes the way I work today. I do not see insurance as a one-size-fits-all transaction. I see it as part of a larger decision about protecting a family, planning responsibly, and aligning the solution with the client’s real life.
My formal background also reflects that range: Bachelor's in Psychology, an MBA- Finance Excellence Award, and post-MBA graduate study in Adult Education and Instructional Design. I also worked many years as an executive at Realtor.com and as a Licensed Real Estate and Mortgage Broker.
Today, as an Independent Life Insurance Broker, I am appointed with 12 highly rated insurance companies and licensed in 17 states.
Independent Life Insurance Broker
"I help families make clear coverage decisions before the need becomes urgent."
MBA:Finance Excellence Award
20+ Years of Experience
Mortgage & Real Estate
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