Your Guide tothe Summit
A Sherpa is an experienced insurance professional who provides personalized, expert mentoring to Foundry entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional consultants, Sherpas have equity in your success — they're climbing the mountain with you.
"They're the ones climbing Mount Everest. We've climbed Mount Everest before."
— Phil Duncan, CEO
Core Principles
Our Sherpa model is built on principles that align everyone's interests and ensure you get genuine guidance, not generic consulting.
You are the hero
This is your business, your vision. We're here to support your journey, not take it over.
We are the guide
We've navigated these challenges before. Our experience helps you avoid pitfalls and find shortcuts.
Plant seeds, don't dictate
We influence through wisdom and experience, not commands. You make the final decisions.
Skin in the game
Sherpas earn equity and participate in your success. We win when you win.
Seven-Track Foundry Process
Sherpas guide entrepreneurs through a comprehensive evaluation and development process covering every critical aspect of your business.
Technology & Platform
Leverage proven systems, avoid costly mistakes
Business Model & Licensing
Build scalable revenue and regulatory frameworks
Market Analysis
Identify opportunities and validate customer demand
Capital Strategy
Secure funding and structure investments
Regulatory & Compliance
Navigate complex insurance requirements
Distribution & Partnerships
Build go-to-market and scaling strategies
Personal Journey
Support you through transformation and growth
Expertise Areas
Our current Sherpa network includes specialists across key insurance domains.
Larsen Lockwood-Hall
Cyber Insurance Sherpa
Cyber risk, technology E&O, professional liability
John Chevalier
Technology & Operations Sherpa
Platform architecture, operational excellence
John Bennett
Underwriting & Risk Sherpa
Risk assessment, underwriting strategy, product development
Robert
Distribution & Scaling Sherpa
Go-to-market strategy, channel partnerships
Alan Cantor
Data & Analytics Sherpa
Data strategy, predictive modeling, business intelligence
Sami Satouri
Social Services Insurance Sherpa
Social services sector, specialty programs
Three-Tier Model
Sherpas are compensated through a model that aligns their success with yours.
Direct Fees
Paid for time and expertise during the Foundry process
Equity Stakes
Ownership in the businesses they help launch (typically 25-30%)
Innovation Tools
Build reusable solutions that create ongoing value
Become a Sherpa
Use your deep insurance expertise to guide multiple ventures, earn equity, and build a portfolio of successful businesses.
10+ years of insurance expertise
Deep knowledge in underwriting, operations, technology, or distribution
Proven track record
History of building or scaling successful insurance programs
Passion for mentorship
Desire to guide others and share your expertise
What You Get as a Sherpa
- Equity stakes in ventures you help launch (typically 25-30%)
- Direct fees for your time and expertise
- Access to deal flow and investment opportunities
- Network of experienced insurance professionals
- Platform tools to build reusable solutions
- Multiple ventures to guide simultaneously
Ready to Guide or Be Guided?
Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking mentorship or an expert looking to guide ventures, there's a place for you in the Sherpa program.