Origin Story & Legacy
The Power of a Helping Hand
In 1978, Tina Hutsenpiller was a determined high school senior at Mt. Juliet High, balancing school with long shifts as a waitress at Cedar Creek Yacht Club. As the youngest of four in a single-parent home, she knew college wasn’t an option financially—but she refused to let that limit her future.
Then, fate stepped in.
Mary Elizabeth Kelloway, a founding member of the yacht club, saw something special in Tina—drive, ambition, and potential. She didn’t just offer encouragement; she took action. Mary arranged an interview for Tina at a top insurance agency in Nashville, TN, setting her on a career path she never imagined. But she didn’t stop there. Knowing first impressions mattered, Mary took Tina shopping at Green Hills Mall, ensuring she had the professional wardrobe to match her bright future.
That single act of kindness changed everything.
"Tina Hutsenpiller is the god mother of the insurance industry. She helped blaze a trail for all of us."
From a Diploma to Desk: The First Steps in Insurance
On the very day of her high school graduation, Tina secured the job that would shape her future. She worked a half-day at her new position before proudly walking across the stage that evening to receive her diploma—a moment that marked not just the end of high school, but the beginning of an incredible career.
From that pivotal day forward, Tina’s journey in insurance took off. She gained valuable experience at various agencies across the Nashville market, sharpening her skills and earning a reputation for excellence. Her path eventually led her to The Kneeland Agency in Berry Hill, an influential firm with deep roots in the country music industry, where she helped insure top executives and some of the biggest names in the business.
The Founding of Hutsenpiller Insurance
In 1992, Tina made a bold decision—one that would shape the future of Tennessee’s insurance landscape. Wanting to prioritize her family and cut down on her commute, she took a leap of faith and founded Hutsenpiller Insurance.
But her story didn’t end there. Her connection to The Kneeland Agency remained strong, and in 2008, Hutsenpiller Insurance officially acquired the agency, cementing its presence in the Nashville insurance market. Even today, many of The Kneeland Agency’s original clients remain loyal customers, a testament to the trust and relationships built over the years.
What started as a way to balance work and family has grown into a pillar of the Tennessee insurance industry. Hutsenpiller Insurance has become synonymous with exceptional service, earning numerous accolades along the way, including: Agent of the Year, Business of the Year, Chairman's Award and Lifetime Achievement Award
A New Chapter
After decades of dedication, Tina Hutsenpiller closed one chapter and stepped into a well-earned retirement. With the sale of the agency, she gracefully transitioned away from the demands of daily operations, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and service that continues to define Hutsenpiller Insurance.
Now, with the freedom to embrace life on her own terms, Tina fills her days with the things that bring her joy. She finds adventure in the mountains, where she explores scenic trails and soaks in the beauty of nature. When seeking tranquility, she escapes to the beach, enjoying the sound of crashing waves and the warmth of the sun. And for a bit of friendly competition, she takes to the pickleball court, staying active and social with spirited matches.
Her retirement isn’t just a well-deserved break—it’s a testament to a lifetime of resilience, hard work, and perseverance. After years of building something meaningful, she now enjoys the fruits of her labor, surrounded by the experiences and passions that make life truly fulfilling.
A Family-Focused Workplace
Tina’s unwavering dedication to family has remained a cornerstone of Hutsenpiller Insurance, shaping the company’s culture long after her retirement. Today, CJ has not only embraced these values but has expanded them, ensuring that the agency continues to be a place where both employees and clients feel like family.
At Hutsenpiller Insurance, work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a priority. The agency fosters a supportive and family-friendly workplace by offering:
- Hybrid work schedules for greater flexibility
- Unlimited paid time off to empower employees to recharge and be at their best
- Generous paid maternity and paternity leave to support growing families
This deep-rooted commitment to both employees and customers is what sets Hutsenpiller Insurance apart. It’s more than just an agency—it’s a thriving community built on trust, care, and the belief that family always comes first.
