Meet Your Healthcare Professional Liability Wholesaler

David Huss

Co-Founder & Chief Production Officer

Founded Ethos: December 2004
Based in Seattle, WA

As the Co-Founder and Chief Production Officer of Ethos Insurance Partners, my decades of experience in the insurance industry have come in handy. My insurance journey began on the reinsurance brokerage side with Sedgwick Payne. Five years later I took a position as an EPLI production underwriter at an Aon-owned MGU by the name of Professional Risk Co. Eventually, I came to realize the wholesale side was where I needed to be.

My exclusive focus on healthcare professional liability placements began in 2003. In December 2004 I co-founded Ethos Insurance Partners with my friend and business partner, Jonathan Waterman. We have been committed to continually refining our business approach to add value for our retail customers ever since.

Over the years I have developed a comprehensive understanding of virtually every professional liability exposure to be found in the healthcare industry. I am also well-versed in the products, appetites, and coverage capabilities of our many carrier partners. This enables me to expertly assist with the placement of a wide range of healthcare-related risks for my retail customers.

The most gratifying aspect of my role at Ethos is helping our production support staff solve our retail customers' healthcare professional liability-related problems efficiently and effectively. I take pride in assisting them with procuring tailored solutions in a timely fashion that address the applicant’s specific needs, and in so doing bring peace of mind and business success to our retail customers.

On a more personal note, I find joy and satisfaction in building things. Whether it's undertaking a home addition or renovation project, creating outdoor living spaces, or nurturing business ventures, I appreciate the challenge, the process, the physical labor (when applicable), and the satisfaction of enjoying the end result. I am particularly proud of having participated in the building of Ethos from the ground up.

I also find myself these days focusing more and more on the creation of good meals shared with friends and family. Lately, I have been honing my barbeque skills with guidance from my slow-and-low BBQ mentor, Jason Esparza. There is something deeply rewarding about sharing something I have worked to create with people I care about and making memories in the process.

Finally, I have a growing appreciation for good red wine, especially as it relates to food pairings. I am no expert! But I know what I like, and I enjoy trying wines I’ve never had before. In my opinion, a well-made wine has the power to enhance just about any experience.

Ethos Insurance Partners is a reflection of who I am in many ways. I look forward to continuing to build Ethos via collaboration with like-minded staff and serving our retail customers for years to come.

Jonathan Waterman

Co-Founder & Chief Operations Officer

Founded Ethos in December 2004

Duvall, Washington

As the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Ethos, I have been part of the company since its inception in 2004. My insurance career began in 1992 and worked in various roles until becoming an underwriter for PHICO Group, specializing in medical liability insurance. I gained valuable experience as a med-mal underwriter, which led to an opportunity in 1999 with Frontier Insurance Group, once again focused on the medical malpractice business. Finally, I transitioned into the wholesale market in 2000 with National Specialty Underwriters, Inc. before eventually co-founding Ethos with David Huss.

I bring a unique skillset and expertise to my role. My time as an underwriter allowed me to identify patterns in critical data, enabling me to develop practical and efficient processing systems over time. This expertise has been instrumental in driving operational excellence at Ethos. Throughout my career, I have shared my knowledge and insights through various avenues. I have written numerous blog articles addressing specific issues in the medical malpractice market. Additionally, I have had the privilege of being a guest panelist at events such as PLUS and other industry conventions.

Outside of work, my true joy comes from spending time with my wife and family. Home, to me, is not just a place but about the people who make it special. Furthermore, I embrace variety and have enjoyed exploring numerous hobbies over the years (music, watersports, adventuring & more), finding pleasure in the diverse experiences they offer.

My favorite part of my job is the moment when a new customer recognizes the distinctive work of our team and verbalizes it for the first time. Similarly, knowing that the staff at Ethos enjoys their work here and contributes to improving our customers' experiences fills me with joy for the company that David and I have built. As the COO, I am especially proud when agents comment on the ease and efficiency of working with us when compared to other healthcare professional liability wholesalers.

Shawn Chummar

Business Developer

Started at Ethos: January 2025
Based in Beaverton, Oregon

I spent the first 15 years of my career as a wholesale insurance broker before transitioning into the healthcare professional liability space. Once in HPL, I served as a senior account executive at TDC and later as regional vice president for the Northwest region at MagMutual. Following my time with MagMutual, I created a logistics company, served on the board of The Physician Leadership Project, and got more involved in my community.

During that time I remained involved in the industry as a freelance consultant, helping organizations navigate the challenges of healthcare professional liability. At the end of those five years, I realized I wanted to return to the insurance industry full-time, as consulting no longer offered the professional challenges I was seeking. That’s when I joined the team at Ethos.

I’ve known the team at Ethos for many years, and I knew the company culture aligned perfectly with my values. I’m thrilled to bring my diverse experiences and passion for insurance back to a field I truly enjoy.

I take great pride in my home and in my community. Born in India and raised in Portland, I’ve called this city home since I was two years old. I’ve been married for over 20 years, and my wife and I are proud parents to three boys. Outside of work, I enjoy playing golf with my boys. While my golf skills are far perfect, spending time outdoors with my family and friends is what matters most.

I’m excited to be part of the Ethos team, bringing my years of experience and commitment to delivering excellent service to our clients.

Mike Lenosky

Assistant Vice President/Production Support

Started at Ethos: June 2016
Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

With a strong educational background from Penn State, I bring a unique blend of analytical skills and ethical principles to my role as Assistant Vice President of Production Support at Ethos. Since initially joining the company in June 2016 as a Support Specialist, I have been committed to upholding the values that define our organization and delivering exceptional service to our clients. The company structure at Ethos allowed me to be mobile and push myself, as I worked through the roles of Account Manager and up to my current role as AVP. This progressive journey within Ethos has provided me with invaluable insights into our clients' needs and a deep understanding of how our solutions can drive their success.

As an AVP, I excel at analyzing complex situations and determining the best course of action to achieve our clients' goals. I take pride in crafting tailored insurance strategies and navigating intricate policy details to provide our clients with the guidance and support they need. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact our services have on their businesses and lives.

When I'm not immersed in the insurance world, you'll likely find me on the golf course or driving range. I have aspirations of joining the PGA Tour, but my 15 handicap keeps getting in the way. Even if I can't make it to the pros, I can always find solace in a well-executed drive or a perfectly sunk putt.

Beyond my golfing adventures, I enjoy staying apprised of current events and the ever-evolving political landscape. It's important to have a well-rounded perspective on the world around us, and I find it intellectually stimulating to delve into these topics and engage in meaningful discussions.

Similarly, I am fascinated by history and have recently been in a deep dive into World War I and World War II. The sacrifices made during those turbulent times are not to be forgotten, and I believe it's essential to learn from history and honor the memory of those who endured unimaginable hardships.

Joining Ethos has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our mission of providing ethical and innovative insurance solutions. As AVP of Production Support, I remain steadfast in upholding our core values, delivering exceptional service to our clients, and providing them with the strategic guidance they need to navigate the complexities of the insurance landscape. With a commitment to ethics and a focus on building strong and lasting relationships, I am dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the highest level of support and expertise.

Kathy DeGrandchamp

Client Executive

Started at Ethos:  January 2025
Based in Phoenix, AZ

With over 25 years of industry experience, I bring a deep understanding of both the carrier and retail brokerage sides of insurance.

My career began at USAA, where I held roles in customer service, underwriting, and call center management. After several years on the carrier side, I transitioned to a retail brokerage, spending the last 21 years at an independent agency specializing in healthcare professional liability. I first connected with the Ethos team in 2005 as a retail agent and worked closely with them for nearly two decades. When the opportunity to join Ethos arose in 2025, the decision to transition from retail to wholesale was an easy one.

As a veteran of the retail side, I understand the unique needs and challenges retail agents face. In my role as Client Executive, I’m equipped to develop strong insurance programs and support our retail customers in placing a wide range of healthcare risks. I’m passionate about our industry and, oddly enough, love reading insurance policy forms.

When I’m not working, I enjoy watching movies, serving at my church, and exploring new places with my favorite travel companions, my family. With two teens, three dogs, and a cat, my husband and I, who are about to celebrate 20 years of marriage, have a home bustling with energy.

I’m so glad to be part of the Ethos team. As a long-term customer, I experienced firsthand the knowledge, passion, and care this team puts into every client interaction. Now, I look forward to delivering that same exceptional service to our retail clients.

Terrell Brooks

Account Manager II

Started at Ethos: August 2022
Based in Phoenix, AZ

Prior to joining Ethos, I worked in real estate investment for 4 years. During that time, I gained valuable experience learning how to develop and maintain up-to-date market knowledge, provide pre-and-post-sales support, and maintain long-term client relationships with folks who don’t need you every day. Similarly, I learned the value that I can personally provide to customers simply by engaging in active communication, conducting business honestly and transparently, and tailoring my approach and services to individual clients’ needs. Transitioning to the insurance industry has been a rewarding career change, and I am grateful for the chance to apply my expertise to further Ethos' mission.

With a keen eye for detail and a meticulous nature, I thrive in my role as an Account Manager. I take pride in my ability to identify and address even the smallest nuanced issues, ensuring that our clients receive personalized and tailored insurance solutions. The ever-evolving world of Healthcare Professional Liability insurance has proven to be unexpectedly exciting, with its constant changes and opportunities for learning. I embrace these challenges and remain dedicated to providing a higher level of service to our valued clients.

Outside of the insurance realm, I have a strong appetite for new experiences and enjoy taking on various challenges. I'm the type of person who will pull over when driving and explore new places or activities that catch my attention. Similarly, I regularly sign up for classes on topics that pique my interest. This sense of spontaneity keeps life interesting and ensures that I am always evolving.

I am an avid music lover, appreciating the creative process of turning nothing into something extraordinary. My eclectic playlist spans different genres, and regardless of personal preference, I can almost always give others an exciting new recommendation. We have music playing in the house just about 24/7, which often leads to impromptu dance battles with my wife and kids.

Health and wellness have always been a significant aspect of my life, though, like many others I slipped up during the pandemic. Getting back on track, I believe in maintaining a balanced approach to overall well-being, including healthy eating, regular workouts, and nurturing mental health. Sports have played a pivotal role in my life, and I love getting out to go play just about anything, even if I totally stink. 

Joining Ethos has provided me with a fulfilling opportunity to merge my professional expertise with my personal values. I am committed to delivering exceptional service to our clients, staying updated on industry changes, and continually enhancing my skills to better serve their needs. I am dedicated to upholding our mission of providing ethical and innovative insurance solutions, ensuring our clients receive the highest level of care and support.

Jordan Obrastoff

Account Manager I

Started at Ethos: October 2022
Based in Habersham County, GA

While Ethos marks my first venture into the insurance industry, my prior roles as a contract manager at SAP-Concur and a team leader in the United States Army have laid a solid foundation for my current position.

I bring a unique skill set and expertise to my role. Throughout my career, I have held diverse positions spanning various industries, which has equipped me with effective communication skills across all walks of life. This breadth of experience has nurtured a deep understanding of the "average" American, while other roles honed my keen eye for detail and pattern recognition. Combined with my personable demeanor, these attributes enable me to skillfully match customers with insurance products that align with their specific needs.

Outside of work, I have a passion for exploring folk instruments, with over nine unique instruments in my collection, including the mountain dulcimer and jaw harp. Although I may not be a virtuoso, I enjoy the process of learning new sounds and expanding my creative horizons. A visitor would notice that my office is adorned with a collection of small Lego sets, providing a touch of whimsy and keeping my hands occupied during focused work. While the themes of my collection may change over time, fantasy and Star Wars sets have remained consistent favorites.

With a family full of gardeners, I have embraced composting as a personal endeavor. Constructing multiple compost bins and establishing a thriving composting system has been incredibly fulfilling. This experience has also allowed me to share my knowledge and assist my neighbors in embarking on their own composting journeys. 

One of the aspects I find most fulfilling in my role is learning about the diverse landscape of medical practices. Learning about new procedures and techniques and gaining insights into different medical fields broadens my knowledge and understanding of this highly specialized field, which in turn allows me to provide better assistance to our customers by tailoring insurance solutions to their specific needs.

Tyler Nelson

Account Manager I

Started at Ethos: September 2023
Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Prior to joining Ethos Insurance Partners in 2023, I spent several years working in B2B Sales, where I developed strong skills in client communication, teamwork, and product comprehension. However, when the opportunity to enter the healthcare professional liability world presented itself, I knew this would be a chance to challenge myself to learn and master an entirely different and more multi-faceted product. 
Since joining Ethos, I’ve gained a deep understanding of healthcare professional liability insurance. With guidance and mentorship from experienced colleagues, my knowledge exploded from novice to expert in an amount of time I wouldn’t have thought possible. While my tenure has been short, I’ve been able to make the most out of the knowledge and experience of my colleagues.

With a background in Sales and an education in English, I bring strong communication skills and a customer-focused approach to healthcare professional liability, enabling me to connect with clients and underwriters in ways that others may not. I excel in building strong customer relationships and responding quickly to opportunities, ensuring I fully understand the unique needs of every client.

My ability to learn quickly and maintain a positive attitude has allowed me to excel in my role. I have become well-versed in the appetites of carriers while also developing productive and positive relationships with retail agents. Combining these attributes enables me to assist with the placement of healthcare-related risks and expand my expertise into other niche lines of coverage. These skills shine particularly in the crafting of our Risk Summaries, which I curate for each and every opportunity in order to maximize our carrier’s understanding of the risk, allowing them to more accurately rate. 

When I look back on my career at Ethos thus far, I truly enjoy working with my colleagues, retail customers, and carrier partners to solve problems and find solutions, especially for particularly unique applicants. I thrive on being challenged, so when a never-before-seen opportunity crosses my desk, I take great pleasure in diving into the details to uncover exactly what we are looking to cover and how to best get it done.

Outside of work, you can find me making constant adjustments and additions to my home. Making this space my own (while also working in it!) is something that I take great pride and joy in. I love playing frisbee with Thomas (my dog) in the spring and summer, and rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fall and winter. Recently I’ve been taking an interest in golf. Golf is challenging and time-consuming, but when you hit the ball just right, it is incredibly rewarding. That sense of challenge and reward keeps me coming back to the course time and time again.

I look forward to a long and fulfilling career at Ethos, where I continue to learn from my colleagues while contributing to the team’s success. I am committed to growing into an ever-deeper expert in this field and providing exceptional service to my clients.

Hailey Rogers

Compliance & Support Manager

Started at Ethos: July 2017
Based in Seattle, WA

My career took an unexpected turn when I joined Ethos in July 2017 as a Support Specialist. Prior to joining Ethos, I studied fashion merchandising at both Washington State University and Miami International University of Art & Design. Although my journey into the insurance world was unconventional, my previous roles as an office administrator and scheduling coordinator for The Goddard School equipped me with a solid foundation for my current position. I was later promoted to the Compliance position in October of 2019 as I had quickly mastered the support specialist role and was ready to take on more responsibility. Soon after I became the manager for both the compliance and support specialist positions, which has taught me a great deal about being in a leadership position and has contributed greatly to my experience at Ethos. 

I’ve been told that efficiency and organization are my superpowers. I thrive on processing information swiftly and accurately, ensuring that every task is executed seamlessly. My strong interpersonal skills allow me to connect with colleagues and clients effortlessly, fostering productive relationships built on trust and open communication. In a world that is constantly evolving, I embrace new challenges and eagerly take in new knowledge, consistently expanding my expertise along the way.

What truly fuels my passion at Ethos is the dynamic blend of managing the support specialist role and spearheading compliance initiatives. As the manager of the support specialists, I relish the opportunity to build and refine processes, infusing them with efficiency and effectiveness to deliver exceptional support to our valued customers. Simultaneously, the compliance aspect of my role presents exciting challenges that push me to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that our operations adhere to industry standards and regulations. I am relentless in my pursuit of streamlining and optimizing our current processes, seeking innovative solutions that propel our team and organization forward.

Beyond the professional sphere, the title of "mom" is a role that I wholeheartedly embrace and cherish. It has swiftly become the most fulfilling and rewarding aspect of my life, surpassing any other endeavor I have pursued. The boundless love, unbreakable bonds, and profound joy that come with being a mom are unmatched.

In addition to motherhood, athletics and travel have both been lifelong passions of mine. Although I did not pursue basketball at the collegiate level, I still savor the exhilaration of picking up a ball for a quick scrimmage or engaging in a friendly game of "horse." While my roots lie in the Pacific Northwest, my heart finds solace in the vibrant landscapes of southern Florida, where my mom and sisters reside. Exploring the enchanting Florida Keys and immersing myself in the unique charm of Stiltsville allows me to rejuvenate and create treasured memories with my loved ones, and I cannot wait to form those memories with my daughter someday.

My journey at Ethos has been a remarkable one, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the company's mission. As a Compliance and Support Specialist Manager, I am committed to driving excellence and making a positive impact within my role. By continuously striving for growth, both personally and professionally, I aim to elevate the success of Ethos while providing exceptional service to our valued customers.

Pepper Bain

Operations Specialist

Started at Ethos: May 2022
Based in Seattle, WA

Having previously owned a small business, I have firsthand experience of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the critical role that exceptional customer service plays in their success. Ethos' customer-focused strategy and mission resonate deeply with me, as I believe in the power of building strong relationships and exceeding customer expectations. 

One of the aspects I most cherish about my role is the continuous learning and growth opportunities. At Ethos, there is never a shortage of things to do and learn. The collaborative environment, where employees are helpful, thoughtful, and always willing to share their expertise, has been instrumental in expanding my knowledge. I am inspired by the curiosity and love for learning that unifies the Ethos staff, and it fuels my own passion for understanding the intricacies of the insurance industry as well as how Ethos operates.

While my professional endeavors are fulfilling, my greatest joy in life is spending time with my family. As a mother and wife, I treasure moments shared with them, whether it's riding dirt bikes, embarking on travel adventures, or exploring the great outdoors through hiking. All these family activities came together, and in 2019 I obtained my motorcycle endorsement (something I never thought that I would say). Since then, I’ve been regularly going out with my husband on motorcycle adventures and continuing to explore various states with my family.

Joining the Ethos team has been a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our mission of providing ethical and innovative wholesale insurance solutions for retail agents and their healthcare clients. As an Operations Specialist, I remain dedicated to ensuring seamless operations, fostering exceptional customer service, and upholding the values that make Ethos a trusted partner for our clients.

TJ Payne

Marketing Specialist

Started at Ethos: April 2022
Based in Seattle, WA

With a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Western Washington University, I have honed my skills in understanding consumer behavior and translating complex data into meaningful narratives. While Ethos marks my foray into the insurance industry, I have been actively engaged in the field of marketing since 2019 when I was hired as a marketing assistant by my alma mater. In 2021, I further expanded my expertise by working as a marketing specialist supporting Amazon's demand-side platform (DSP). Prior to going back to school in my late 20s, I spent the better part of a decade in the service and hospitality industry.

What truly excites me about my role is unraveling the challenges faced by our customers, the problems that have proven elusive to other wholesalers. I thrive on cracking the code, gaining a deep understanding of customers’ needs, and demonstrating how Ethos can provide innovative solutions. I also love it when things flow in the opposite direction, and I learn about what problems retail brokers are having and parlay that information to help Ethos to understand and shape ourselves to better serve customers’ needs. It's immensely satisfying to help customers solve their problems and help them achieve their goals.

In addition to my professional pursuits, rock climbing holds a special place in my heart. It is a passion that brings me immense joy and fulfillment, allowing me to push my limits and conquer new heights. Although I have been taking time to heal from an injury, I eagerly anticipate the day when I can once again embrace the challenge of the wall and experience the thrill of reaching new summits.

Geek culture has always been a constant source of inspiration and fascination for me. I wholeheartedly immerse myself in its captivating realms, exploring the depths of this vibrant culture. Recently, I embarked on an exciting creative venture by launching a podcast dedicated to the art of painting miniatures. This unique and niche interest not only allows me to express my artistic side but also provides me with a platform to engage with a community that shares my enthusiasm.

Another aspect of my life that has shaped me is my dedication to the DIY music scene. While I may not actively play music anymore, attending shows remains a cherished part of my life. The energy, creativity, and sense of community that come alive in those venues resonate deeply with me.

Joining Ethos has been an exciting chapter in my career journey, and I am proud to contribute to our mission of providing innovative insurance solutions. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to support the growth and success of our clients. With a keen focus on delivering value and making a positive impact, I am dedicated to promoting the exceptional services and solutions that set Ethos apart in the industry.