Dana Coates is the CEO and Director of Strategic Partnerships at UWIB Risk & Insurance Solutions, formerly United Western Insurance Brokers. With over 50 years of experience in risk mitigation, insurance advising, and business consulting, Dana has guided clients ranging from billionaires and their companies to family-owned businesses through some of the toughest challenges imaginable, from wildfires to climate change, from war to workplace violence, and from massive market shifts to everyday operational risks.
Dana’s family roots in insurance trace back to 1918 in Pasadena, California, and he has been a licensed broker since the mid-1970s. Since 1996, Dana has led UWIB as an independent agency headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, with additional offices in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and Los Angeles, California. He is widely known for his innovative, tech-forward approach, blending old-school underwriting wisdom with modern tools like AMS360, BRINQ, OCR, and AI-driven platforms to improve client service and efficiency.
His career has included diverse roles, including police officer, auto mechanic, rancher, horseman, marksman, race car owner, and yachtsman, all of which shaped his unique perspective on risk and resilience. Dana thrives in complex and messy situations where his creativity and problem-solving shine, whether untangling high-value personal lines, navigating distressed commercial placements, or guiding organizations through automation and succession planning.At his core, Dana is client-first. He places his clients’ needs above financial gain and sees his life’s purpose as helping people find solutions and avoid calamity wherever possible. He believes deeply in mentorship, collaboration, and building “white-glove” client experiences rooted in both wisdom and innovation.
- Published on: October 14, 2025Education
Loss Control Visits: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Navigating the world of insurance can often feel daunting, especially for those new to the process. One essential component of risk management that every insurance novice should be aware of is the loss control visit. This process is a cornerstone of proactive risk reduction strategies employed by many insurance companies. Understanding what to expect during a loss control visit and how to prepare can greatly enhance the experience and outcomes for your business....Read More - Published on: October 13, 2025Education
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) vs. Standalone Policies: Making the Right Choice for Your Business
Navigating the world of business insurance can be daunting, especially for new entrepreneurs or small business owners. One critical decision they face is whether to opt for a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) or to invest in standalone policies. Understanding the differences and advantages of each can not only safeguard your enterprise but also ensure that your resources are utilized effectively....Read More - Published on: October 10, 2025Education
Commercial Auto Risk Management for HVAC Companies
In the dynamic world of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) businesses, effective risk management is essential, especially regarding commercial auto operations. These vehicles are vital to daily business activities, from transporting equipment to responding to service calls promptly. This blog will delve into the importance of commercial auto risk management specifically tailored for HVAC companies, examining strategies to safeguard your operations, reduce risk exposures, and enhance overall safety....Read More - Published on: October 8, 2025Education
When to Increase Liability Limits on Auto Insurance
Understanding auto insurance can be daunting, especially for those new to the world of insurance. One critical aspect that often requires attention is liability limits. Knowing when to increase these limits is essential for maintaining adequate financial protection while driving. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of liability limits on auto insurance, the circumstances that necessitate their increase, and how higher limits can better protect you in various scenarios....Read More - Published on: October 6, 2025Education
Vendor Risk Assessment Checklist for SMBs
In today’s interconnected business environment, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) increasingly rely on third-party vendors to enhance their operations. While outsourcing can lead to greater efficiency and competitiveness, it also introduces potential risks that could jeopardize a company’s security and reputation. Implementing a robust vendor risk assessment process is essential for safeguarding assets, ensuring compliance, and maintaining trust with customers....Read More - Published on: October 4, 2025Education
COI Request Template and Best Practices: A Guide for Insurance Novices
In today's business climate, understanding insurance requirements is more critical than ever. One vital aspect is the Certificate of Insurance (COI), a document proving that a party carries adequate insurance coverage. COIs can protect your business from unforeseen claims and liabilities. As a potential client or someone new to insurance, knowing how to request and manage COIs is essential for safeguarding your interests. This article provides an easy-to-follow COI request template, along with best practices for obtaining and managing these crucial documents....Read More - Published on: October 3, 2025Education
Participant Waivers and Liability: A Guide for Fitness Studios and Gyms
Fitness studios and gyms have become increasingly popular venues for health enthusiasts, but with great benefits come inherent risks. Every time a client steps into a fitness facility, there's a chance of potential injury. That's where participant waivers come into play. Understanding waivers and their implications is crucial for both fitness facilities and their clients. This article will guide you through the essentials of waivers and liability, shedding light on their importance and best practices....Read More - Published on: September 30, 2025Education
Retail: Understanding Premises Liability and Seasonal Staffing Risks
As the retail sector transitions into peak sales periods, it becomes crucial for businesses to understand the nuanced landscape of premises liability and risks associated with seasonal staffing. With increased foot traffic and a temporary surge in employees, organizations face unique challenges that can significantly impact their operations and liability exposures....Read More