Posted: December 10, 2010

Home and family Virginia Beach; my husband of 40 years, Steve Kocen; my daughters and sons-in-law, Michelle and Capt. Steve Halpern, Stephanie and Dane Galbraith; my grandchildren, Gavi, Eva, Ahna, Sydney, Jillian and Max. We are expecting another granddaughter in February!

Career progression My college degree is in early childhood education. I ran a preschool that is still in existence in Lexington, Ky., and I helped found the Lexington Children's Museum. My direction changed dramatically when I moved back here and was faced with the long-term illness of my husband's grandmother. That's when I became interested in long-term care insurance and knew my mission was to educate as many people as I could about the need to protect their income and assets from the possible devastation a long-term illness could produce.

Proudest business achievement Knowing that I am following in my grandfather's footsteps. In 1928 my grandfather, Jack Leterman, became the first general agent in Virginia for John Hancock Life Insurance Co. The agency has been family-run ever since.

Biggest success factor Living by "The Golden Rule."

Professional, business activities Elizabeth River Chapter of the American Business Women's Association - past president; National Association of Investment and Financial Advisors - former board member; National Association of Women Business Owners, Southeast Virginia Area - president-elect; Virginia Beach Task Force on Aging - past treasurer; Central Business District Association.

Volunteer and community activities Arthritis Foundation of Virginia; Citizens Committee to Protect the Elderly; Ohef Sholom Temple Sisterhood; Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters.

Balancing time I set my priorities daily and complete the most critical ones first. I never lose sight of my most precious priorities: to talk with my daughters and grandchildren each day and carve out time for friends. I am a spiritual person so I spend part of each day reflecting on my personal values and faith.

Biggest obstacles When I first came into this business, I was faced with an overwhelming obstacle in trying to find clients. Since my cousins and brother-in-law were in the business, the contacts I had were already clients. So I joined several women's organizations. That obstacle turned into the greatest treasure because I now have the best girlfriends I could have ever imagined.

Professional goal in five years To continue to serve my client base with the professional services and commitment they expect.

Advice for women First, seek out successful women and reach out to them. Tell them that you'd like to learn from them. Next, always focus on the results you are seeking and then fill in the steps needed to achieve them. Don't do anything to tarnish your reputation or your integrity.

Downtime It's all about family, friends, community service and helping others. The most fun I have is with my husband whether we're traveling, going to movies, shopping or being with friends. Our favorite activities include being with our grandchildren.

What gets under your skin? Negativity. Life is too short to be around negative energy and I choose to surround myself with positive, upbeat people.