Gaylan Hendricks | Women of Impact 2025

GAYLAN HENDRICKS

CEO

SSB, LLC An Integrity Company

I’m the CEO of a health and life insurance marketing firm, and I’ve been in this industry for 40 years. I’ve been an agent since 1987 and now I coach, train and motivate other agents. I also advocate to local and federal governments, educating them on how important agents are in ensuring Americans have the choices and healthcare they need.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

When my dad was diagnosed with cancer, the financial devastation it brought to our family caused him to want to leave this earth sooner than he needed to. I never want another family to experience such an unnecessary hardship due to lack of coverage. Serving at the Ronald McDonald House has shown me that all families need not only health insurance, but supplemental plans to help them stay together during a crisis.

Biggest challenges in my career

Getting others to see I had what it took when I was getting started. It’s still a challenge, but now I have the confidence — and people who believe in me.

My first job and what it taught me

Working in a local burger joint in Lubbock, Texas, at 15 taught me to multitask and serve others.

A nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

My love of people and helping others be better.

Best career moment so far

The acquisition of my company in 2021, but also seeing my son and daughter-in-law become the leaders and executives they are.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Bartending. Learning to talk with people in all walks of life has helped me be a better leader.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Reading scripture daily.

Best advice I ever received

Never use the word CAN’T unless you’re physically unable to do something.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

That we help people every day with things we don’t get paid for, but are worthwile. We’re contributing to their daily comfort — sometimes it’s as simple as calling the fire department to change their smoke alarm battery because it’s been beeping for months.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Pray.

IN THE DETAILS