Jo Barsh
Jo Barsh is a seasoned insurance professional and owner of her own State Farm agency in Ocoee, Florida, with 27 years of experience in the industry. She specializes in property and casualty insurance for both residential and commercial clients, providing tailored solutions that help individuals, families, and businesses manage everyday risks and recover from the unexpected. Jo’s approach to insurance is deeply ethical, treating every client as if they were family and ensuring their financial and personal security is always a top priority.
Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Jo spent 22 years with Southeast Toyota before transitioning into the insurance industry. After relocating to Orlando and taking time as a stay-at-home mom, she was introduced to insurance when switching her own policy. She quickly fell in love with the work and became an independent agent, building her agency with a client-first, servant’s heart philosophy. Even during her second year as an agency owner, while undergoing cancer treatment, Jo demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication by continuing to serve her clients and grow her business.
Beyond her professional work, Jo is deeply committed to her community. She serves on the boards of the West Orange Habitat for Humanity, the YMCA, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Winter Garden Rotary, advocating for social services, family support, and local development. Her mission is to provide ethical insurance guidance, help clients realize their dreams, and support the community through service and trust-based relationships. Jo’s career is defined not only by her expertise but also by her unwavering integrity, compassion, and determination to make a positive impact.
• Recognized by Heritage Museum as Influential Women
• West Orange Habitat
• YMCA Board
• Eight Waves board
• The West Orange Chamber of Commerce
• WINTER GARDEN ROTARY FOUNDATION INC
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to mindset, perseverance, and purpose. Raised by a hardworking single mother, I learned early to embrace challenges, stay busy, and give my best in everything I do. I’ve carried that work ethic into my career and my family, instilling the same values in my children. Even when facing cancer while running my own agency, I remained focused and determined, believing that resilience and a clear mission make all the difference. Becoming a cancer survivor this year has only reinforced my commitment to growth, determination, and living with purpose.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to have a genuine desire to help people and a servant’s heart. Being outgoing and approachable is important, but integrity is key—treat everyone as you would your own family and always act ethically. Mistakes happen, and people understand that, but dishonesty or trying to cover things up is never acceptable. Be honest, take responsibility, and most importantly, learn from your mistakes so you don’t repeat them. Success comes from doing the right thing and putting people first.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field include balancing the demanding, 24/7 early years of building an agency with the later need for personal time and effective delegation. At the same time, there are significant opportunities in serving underserved populations, such as children and the elderly, protecting seniors from exploitation, and providing affordable, flexible solutions for clients. Success requires finding trusted vendors, creating ethical processes, and maintaining a client-first approach while growing and sustaining the business.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are ethics, hard work, and meaningful service. I was raised by a single mother who worked six days a week, and that work ethic has shaped how I live and how I’ve raised my children. I’ve always embraced staying busy and giving my best in everything I do, whether building my career, running multiple jobs, or pursuing initiatives that matter to me. In my nonprofit work, I focus on causes close to my heart, particularly supporting children and protecting the elderly, who are often vulnerable. I only commit to work and boards that have real meaning, ensuring my efforts make a positive, ethical impact.