10 Business Insurance Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Insights from Peter Strauss, William Stokes McIntyre, and Micah Salas shaping smarter business insurance choices

Updated on June 22, 2025
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What if your business insurance strategy is costing you more than it should? Many business owners and executives discover too late that their insurance coverage either falls short or drains resources unnecessarily. Business insurance isn't just about buying a policy; it's about mastering risk management tailored to your unique needs.

Experts like Peter J. Strauss, founder of The Strauss Law Firm and CEO of Hamilton Captive Management, reveal innovative captive insurance strategies that challenge traditional thinking. Meanwhile, William Stokes McIntyre brings decades of risk management expertise, and Micah Salas, a Certified Insurance Counselor, simplifies the buying process for small business owners. Their combined insights illuminate paths through complex insurance landscapes.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific business size, industry, or risk profile might consider creating a personalized Business Insurance book that builds on these insights. This approach ensures you get strategies that fit your exact situation rather than one-size-fits-all advice.

Best for entrepreneurs exploring captive insurance
Peter J. Strauss, founder of The Strauss Law Firm and CEO of Hamilton Captive Management, brings unmatched expertise to this book. With a strong legal background and leadership in multiple insurance firms, he wrote this guide to demystify captive insurance companies. His deep understanding of corporate, tax, and risk management shines throughout, making this a valuable reference for business owners seeking smarter insurance solutions.
2017·176 pages·Business Insurance, Insurance, Risk Management, Captive Insurance, Tax Planning

What if the conventional wisdom about business insurance is missing a crucial opportunity? Peter J. Strauss challenges traditional insurance thinking by diving into the underexplored world of captive insurance companies, showing how business owners can actually reduce expenses and increase cash flow by self-insuring certain risks. You’ll gain practical knowledge on forming and managing captive insurance entities, including legal navigation, risk assessment, and selecting competent managers. Strauss’s thorough approach, drawn from his extensive legal and insurance management background, suits entrepreneurs and small business owners eager to rethink risk management beyond standard policies. This isn’t a quick fix but a strategic move for those ready to deepen their control over insurance costs and business protection.

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William Stokes McIntyre is a renowned risk management expert with extensive experience in the insurance industry. He has authored several books on insurance strategies and cost-cutting techniques, bringing a depth of knowledge to this guide. His background equips him to address the complex balance of reducing insurance costs while preserving vital protection, making this book a valuable resource for those responsible for managing business insurance programs.
101 Ways to Cut Business Insurance Costs Without Sacrificing Protection, Third Edition book cover

by William Stokes McIntyre, Jack P. Gibson, Robert A. Bregman··You?

211 pages·Insurance, Business Insurance, Cost Reduction, Risk Management, Claims Management

Drawing from extensive experience in risk management, William Stokes McIntyre and his co-authors offer a focused manual on reducing business insurance expenses without compromising essential coverage. This book walks you through specific strategies tailored to each major insurance line, such as automobile, liability, property, and workers' compensation, making it straightforward to apply cost-saving measures. You’ll gain insights into auditing insurance programs effectively and managing relationships with brokers and underwriters to your advantage. If you manage insurance budgets or advise businesses on risk financing, this guide provides a practical framework to streamline costs while maintaining protection.

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Best for custom captive strategies
This AI-tailored book on captive insurance develops a systematic approach with frameworks that adapt to your specific business risk management context. The content adjusts based on your industry, size, and financial goals to address the complex challenges of forming and managing captives. Created after you specify your areas of interest and expertise, it bridges the gap between theoretical principles and practical application tailored to your unique needs.
2025·50-300 pages·Business Insurance, Captive Insurance, Risk Management, Regulatory Compliance, Tax Planning

This tailored book on captive insurance management provides a personalized framework that adjusts to your specific business size, industry, and risk profile. It offers detailed strategies for structuring and operating captive insurance companies, focusing on regulatory compliance, tax implications, and risk financing models. The content emphasizes practical decision-making tools that fit your unique business risk management context, cutting through generic advice to deliver targeted insights on captive formation, governance, and optimization. This approach ensures you can align captive insurance strategies with your operational goals and financial objectives effectively.

Tailored Framework
Risk Financing Models
3,000+ Custom Books Made
Best for insurance sales professionals
Baxter Dunbar, who twice earned Allstate's Commercial Salesman of the Year Award and later founded his own insurance agency, leverages his extensive sales experience in this book. Motivated by his hands-on knowledge from direct writing companies Liberty Mutual and Allstate, Dunbar crafted a guide focused on practical sales activities and client engagement. His background uniquely positions him to offer insights that help insurance producers grow their commissions by mastering property and casualty business insurance sales.
Insurance Commander: How to Sell Property and Casualty Business Insurance book cover

by Baxter Dunbar, Natasha Derrington, Robert Howard··You?

1996·333 pages·Business Insurance, Prospecting, Insurance, Sales, Property Insurance

Baxter Dunbar's decades of hands-on experience in commercial property and casualty insurance provide the backbone of this book. Drawing from his award-winning sales career at Liberty Mutual and Allstate, Dunbar offers a clear roadmap for selling business insurance, focusing on practical sales activities like prospecting and proposal development. You’ll benefit from his detailed survey checklists and worksheets designed to keep clients engaged and promises fulfilled, which are peppered with insights on how to grow your commissions steadily. This book suits insurance agents aiming to sharpen their sales skills rather than those seeking broad insurance theory.

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Best for Nigerian market insurance practitioners
Peter Offiong is a recognized authority in business interruption insurance, focusing on contemporary practices in Nigeria. With extensive experience in the insurance industry, he aims to simplify complex concepts for both practitioners and students, making this book a valuable resource for those immersed in Nigeria’s insurance landscape.
2020·143 pages·Business Insurance, Business Interruption Insurance, Underwriting, Claims Management, Risk Assessment

When Peter Offiong first realized how misunderstood business interruption insurance is within Nigeria, he set out to clarify its complexities specifically for this market. Drawing from his deep industry experience, he breaks down underwriting and claims processes with clear explanations that challenge existing norms. You’ll find practical insights into how global events like Covid-19 impact this insurance sector, especially in the final chapter, which opens important conversations rather than offering definitive answers. This book suits insurance buyers, students, and practitioners eager to navigate Nigerian business interruption insurance without getting lost in jargon.

New York Times Bestseller
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Best for small business insurance buyers
Micah Salas is an author, insurance agent, husband, and father. With a background in the insurance industry since 2011, he has completed a distinguished year-long training program and earned a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation. His experience serving hundreds of clients inspired him to write this book to simplify the complex insurance buying process and help business owners feel confident in protecting their companies.
2022·100 pages·Business Insurance, Insurance, Risk Management, Policy Selection, Claims Handling

Drawing from over a decade in the insurance industry, Micah Salas offers a clear-eyed look at the often frustrating process of buying business insurance. You learn how to navigate common pitfalls like unexpected premium hikes, confusing paperwork, and slow responses by holding agents accountable and understanding the rules insurers play by. The book breaks down five core strategies that aim to cut through complexity, helping you secure proper protection without wasting time or money. If you manage a small to medium business and want straightforward guidance on insurance, this book delivers practical insights without unnecessary jargon or fluff.

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Best for cost reduction strategies
This AI-tailored book on insurance cost reduction develops a systematic approach with frameworks that adapt to your specific business risk profile and industry requirements. The content adjusts based on your areas of interest and expertise, focusing on balancing cost savings with essential coverage. Created after you specify your particular focus areas, it provides actionable strategies to navigate complex insurance expenses effectively. Readers benefit from a personalized guide that bridges expert principles with practical application tailored to their unique business context.
2025·50-300 pages·Business Insurance, Risk Assessment, Policy Auditing, Cost Management, Alternative Financing

This AI-tailored book on business insurance cost reduction provides a structured methodology focusing on techniques to lower insurance expenses while preserving adequate coverage. It offers a personalized framework that integrates risk assessment, policy auditing, and strategic negotiations, adjusting to your specific industry, business size, and risk profile. The content cuts through generic advice by addressing cost-saving strategies such as leveraging alternative risk financing, optimizing deductibles, and utilizing captive insurance options where appropriate. It also examines the balance between cost and coverage to ensure protection is not compromised. This tailored approach fits your specific context, empowering you to implement effective cost management without sacrificing essential business insurance safeguards.

Tailored Framework
Cost Optimization
3,000+ Books Created
Best for small business owners on captives
Peter Strauss is the managing member of The Strauss Law Firm, LLC, specializing in estate and tax planning, asset protection, and captive insurance for individuals and businesses across the United States and internationally. With credentials including a law degree from the New England School of Law and an LL.M. in Estate Planning from the University of Miami, Strauss brings a wealth of knowledge to this guide. His experience speaking at professional conferences like the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Hawaii Tax Institute underlines his authority. This book reflects his dedication to equipping small business owners with sophisticated insurance and financial planning techniques.
2011·164 pages·Business Insurance, Asset Protection, Tax Planning, Estate Planning, Captive Insurance

When Peter Strauss first realized how captive insurance companies could transform financial strategies for small business owners, he set out to demystify this complex area. Drawing from his extensive legal and estate planning expertise, Strauss explains how to leverage captive insurance to reduce income taxation, increase cash flow, and protect both personal and business assets. You’ll find detailed guidance on establishing and implementing captives, including self-insurance tactics and estate planning enhancements, making it a solid resource for business owners ready to explore sophisticated risk management tools. While it’s tailored to those familiar with tax and legal frameworks, anyone aiming to deepen their grasp of captive insurance will benefit from Strauss’s clear explanations and practical insights.

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Best for UK insurance legal experts
Riley on Business Interruption Insurance distinguishes itself in the field by blending insurance, legal, and accounting insights to deliver a comprehensive view of business interruption coverage. This edition responds directly to the pivotal UK Supreme Court judgment affecting policyholders after the pandemic, offering updated chapters that enhance usability and reflect recent legal changes like the Insurance Act 2015. It addresses emerging risks such as cyber threats and parametric insurance, making it a vital resource for professionals seeking to understand and apply business interruption insurance principles effectively in today's complex environment.
Business Insurance, Business Interruption Insurance, Legal Framework, Claims Management, Risk Assessment

When David Cloughton developed this edition, he focused on the significant shift in business interruption insurance law following the UK Supreme Court's FCA test case. You gain an interdisciplinary understanding combining insurance policy details, legal precedent, and accounting impacts, especially relevant for pandemic-related claims. The book's restructured chapters, including a dedicated legal section on the Insurance Act 2015 and updated perils coverage, offer clarity on complex topics like parametric cover and cyber threats. If you're involved in insurance underwriting, claims handling, or risk management, this book provides a grounded perspective on navigating current challenges in business interruption policies.

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Best for claims and risk managers
Harry Roberts is a recognized expert in business interruption insurance, with decades of experience providing detailed and practical advice in the field. His work has established him as a leading authority, particularly in the UK and US markets. This book reflects his deep knowledge, offering you precise guidance on policy wordings, claims, and legal challenges in business interruption insurance. If you deal with insurance for businesses, Roberts’ insights help clarify complex topics relevant to your practice.
2016·Business Insurance, Business Interruption Insurance, Insurance, Business Interruption, Claims Handling

Drawing from decades of expertise in business interruption insurance, Harry Roberts provides a thorough examination of policy wordings, coverage nuances, and claims processes across multiple jurisdictions. You’ll gain a clear understanding of how UK and US insurance frameworks compare, along with insights into handling complex claims and legal considerations. The book delivers precise guidance tailored for legal practitioners and insurance brokers, helping you navigate the often intricate language and application of these policies. If your work involves advising businesses on risk management or insurance claims, this book offers focused clarity without unnecessary complexity.

New York Times Bestseller
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Best for executives reassessing insurance
Michael Hale is an insurance expert witness with extensive experience in cases involving insurance disputes. He is also a business insurance consultant specializing in helping executives make informed decisions about their insurance coverage. This background uniquely positions him to offer insights on why many executives may be buying business insurance the wrong way and how to improve their approach to protect their companies better.
2017·114 pages·Business Insurance, Risk Management, Insurance Coverage, Claims Disputes, Litigation

When Michael Hale first realized how often executives discover their insurance shortcomings only after a disaster, he set out to change the conversation around buying business insurance. Drawing from his extensive experience as an insurance expert witness, Hale shares vivid case studies where inadequate coverage led to costly litigation and even business failure. You gain a clear lens on evaluating insurance programs critically, understanding pitfalls that typical buyers overlook. This book suits executives and decision-makers seeking to rethink how they protect their companies from hidden insurance risks.

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Best for leaders optimizing insurance costs
David R. Leng brings over 30 years of expertise as Executive Vice President and Partner at Duncan Financial Group and a Certified Risk Manager to this book. His unique Risk Profile Improvement Process has saved clients over $42 million, making him a trusted voice in business insurance. Drawing from extensive experience and multiple industry certifications, Leng wrote this book to help business leaders like you gain control over costly insurance programs and discover ways to build equity rather than just pay premiums. His practical insights stem from decades advising employers and a commitment to reducing risk factors that impact your bottom line.
2017·179 pages·Business Insurance, Risk Management, Alternative Risk Financing, Captives, Cost Reduction

When David R. Leng first realized how many business owners waste money on insurance without seeing returns, he set out to change that narrative. This book teaches you how to break free from the cycle of overpaying for insurance by introducing concepts like Alternative Risk Financing and Captives, which allow businesses to take calculated risks for potential rewards. You’ll gain insights into reducing your total cost of risk while simultaneously building equity within your insurance program. If you're leading a company with significant insurance expenses, this book offers clear, experience-backed guidance to rethink your approach effectively.

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Conclusion

Across these ten books, a few themes emerge: the power of captive insurance to reclaim control over premiums, the importance of cutting costs without sacrificing coverage, and the critical role of understanding complex policies like business interruption insurance. These works collectively bridge legal, financial, and practical aspects of business insurance.

If you’re an entrepreneur exploring new ways to manage risk, start with Peter Strauss's guides on captive insurance. For cost-conscious managers, William McIntyre’s manual offers actionable savings strategies. Executives seeking a fresh perspective should turn to Michael Hale's insights on purchasing pitfalls. Combining these with Micah Salas's playbook can fast-track implementation.

Once you've absorbed these expert insights, create a personalized Business Insurance book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. Tailored guidance helps you apply what you've learned in ways that truly protect your business and optimize your insurance spend.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with 'The Business Insurance Playbook' by Micah Salas for straightforward guidance on buying business insurance. It’s accessible for small business owners and lays a solid foundation before diving into specialized topics like captive insurance or business interruption.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Business Insurance?

Not at all. Books like '101 Ways to Cut Business Insurance Costs' offer practical strategies suitable for beginners, while others such as Peter Strauss's works provide deeper dives for those ready to explore advanced risk management.

What’s the best order to read these books?

Begin with general guides like 'The Business Insurance Playbook' and '101 Ways to Cut Business Insurance Costs.' Then explore niche subjects such as captive insurance with Strauss’s books, followed by detailed legal perspectives in the 'Riley on Business Interruption Insurance' editions.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast Business Insurance changes?

While insurance evolves, foundational principles remain relevant. For example, 'Packing Your Parachute' offers timeless lessons on executive decision-making, and 'Demystifying Business Interruption Insurance' addresses contemporary issues, including pandemic impacts.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

'101 Ways to Cut Business Insurance Costs' by William McIntyre is packed with immediately applicable strategies to reduce expenses without sacrificing coverage, ideal for managers seeking quick wins.

How can personalized Business Insurance books complement these expert recommendations?

Personalized books tailor expert insights to your specific industry, business size, and risk profile, filling gaps general books can't cover. They complement titles like Strauss’s captive insurance guides by focusing on your unique needs. Learn more here.

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