Meet our wonderful team!
We could not be more proud of our amazing team that makes WAP so special. Click on their picture to see their bio!
Paul Rose
Co-CEO
602.955.5353 Ext 281
Paul@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Paul Rose, Co-CEO - Peace, Love and Medicare!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I enjoy the freedom and leadership opportunities. I love working with a team that is focused on developing new ideas and services for our clients. I like how we try to make everything fun.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
How to start an agency… How to organize for carrier meetings… How to strategize strengths and build an agency… Technical Medicare questions… How we run Western Asset… Where we will be in five years…
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I was born in Portland, Oregon and moved to Iowa and Michigan, as my parents were pastors for many years. We landed in Arizona to seek new opportunities in 1993. Mel hired my twin sister Mari and me in 1999. I haven’t looked back since!
What I can’t stop talking about...
How we wouldn’t be here without our agents and agency partners… How fun it is to work with our team…How fun it is to launch into new markets and grow our company!
What you might not know about me...
I have three grandkids! I like a good game of disc golf, poker tournaments and any sporting event. I like to make people laugh…maybe you knew that!
Mari Rose Tautimes
Co-CEO
602.955.5353 Ext 294
mari@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Mari Rose – Co-CEO of Dreams, Visions, and ACTION!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
It’s a wonderland of positive energy that inspires me to become more, and I also get to help others do the same.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Salesforce, marketing, building teams and business strategy. My passion is to find ways to leverage technology for the heavy lifting, but balance that with amazing humans who use it. Tech doesn't replace people, it enhances their efficiency and options.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
We moved a lot growing up and we settled in beautiful sunny AZ when I was in junior high. I've been here longer than anywhere else, so now I consider myself to be from AZ. It's just easier to describe in short conversations this way too.
What I can’t stop talking about...
I'm a talker...so there's a few things I'm always talking about...
1. How lucky I am. I have 4 beautiful children (19, 19, 8 and 4), an amazing opportunity to help others through our business.
2. Tony Robbins. The man has influenced me to lead a most empowered and fulfilling life. The result? He comes up in conversation pretty regularly.
3. Whatever I'm learning, because I'm ALWAYS feeding my mind. My favorite books this year were The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni, Daring Greatly and Rising Strong by Brene Brown, First Things First by Stephen Covey, The E Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber, Good to Great by James Collins and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
What you might not know about me...
I wanted to be a race car driver, a professional business woman or a paleontologist when I grew up. One out of three isn’t bad!
Mel Rose
Chairman of the Board
mel@westernassetprotection.com
Direct Line: 602-770-5063
My business card should say...
It has been suggested that rather than CEO, perhaps another title would be CIO - Chief Inspiration Officer.
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
Inspiring others to reach for their highest good simultaneously creates the space for increased happiness and success.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Everything! Since acquiring WAP in 1998, I’ve had the joy of assembling an extraordinary team of individuals who complement our mission of treating everyone we encounter with kindness and integrity.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
Northern CA is where I was raised. After completing my BA and M-Div I served as a Christian minister for 20 years in So-Cal, Oregon, Iowa and Michigan. Our family moved to AZ in 1994 as I was searching for a different career to fulfill my calling to help and inspire people.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Our wonderful people here at WAP… I am blessed to work side-by-side with truly amazing, kind and caring individuals that bring joy and effective solutions to everyone associated with our business.
What you might not know about me...
In 1994, I suffered a closed head injury from a motorcycle accident while not wearing a helmet (it is questionable whether it knocked any sense into me!). This prompted my looking into a new career. Since I loved working with people and math, my occupational therapist connected me with an insurance business. I interviewed and began my insurance career in 1995. The rest is history!
Mary Rose
Managing Partner
mary@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Mary Rose, PhD
Owner, Managing Partner
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
The people. The energy.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
How we’ve grown as a company.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
The Midwest. Mel had to lure me out of a teaching contract to work full-time in our business.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Being able to fire myself from many jobs and tasks and watching everyone grow here.
What you might not know about me...
I hold three degrees. I am a professional singer. I was a pastor, church music director, and taught voice and piano privately for 30 years, as well as English, Public Speaking, Reading, Music Appreciation and Choir in the classroom.
Ana Iamandi
Broker Service Specialist
602.955.5353 Ext 291
ana@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
WAP Entertainer, Muse to the Masses, Walking HR Violation…Recycling Warden.
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I get to be myself. This is my dream job. We work hard, and we play harder.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Aetna, BCBS, CareMore and GTL. If not, ask who’s the most OCD at the office. I mean CDO - alphabetical order! And no, it's not Jeff!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I am from Romania and a plane brought me here.
What I can’t stop talking about...
My two beautiful, amazing four-legged, furry kids. And nutrition, the environment, and recycling.
What you might not know about me...
I am a huge "shoedie". Shoes are to me what food is to most people. I also have no sense of humor…NOT!
Damon Rose
Sales Support
602.955.5353 Ext 275
damon@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Can Do! You Betchya’! I’m on it!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
Complimentary Chocolate. And Helping Agents Sell of course!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
The supply room! I eat breathe and sleep Kits! In an organized fashion, no doubt.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
Life-long Phoenician, strong people in a positive environment.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Anything science. And Rick and Morty.
What you might not know about me...
2nd best underwater basket weaver in my Saturday Underwater Basket Weaving Club.
Erin Toscano
Contracting Service Specialist
602.955.5353 303
erin@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Contracting Service Specialist with big ambitions and big hair.
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
Being a part of an organization where not only the clients but the staff are acknowledged for their value and encouraged to grow and educate themselves. Everyone at WAP is genuinely good natured and willing to help in any way possible. I am excited to be part of this team and contribute to its success and growth!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Anything. Each day I leave the office knowing more about this industry and our company than when I walked through the doors, so ask me whatever you need to know! I will either know the answer or I will find it for you and show you where you can find it in the future. I am a big advocate of the “Teach a man to fish” proverb.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
Most of my life was spent growing up in Montana until college brought me over to Portland, OR where I graduated from PSU. I spent the next decade moving around quite a bit both on the East and West coast until I landed back in Portland for the last 8 years. After becoming thoroughly water logged, I made the move down to Phoenix to dry out!
What I can’t stop talking about...
My kids! They are 5 and almost 3 and my entire world. My 11 year old golden retriever as well. I am very lucky to be surrounded by so much love on a regular basis.
What you might not know about me...
I love home improvement. I am not afraid of power tools or getting my hands dirty. I have done about 95% of the improvements in my house thanks to some gracious professionals willing to educate me and YouTube. If you need to know about plumbing, irrigation, electrical, etc…just ask!
Jean Lentsch
Compliance Officer
602.955.5353 Ext 295
jean@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
“The Mediator”
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
They recognize your accomplishments and celebrate your creativity and potential.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
All things compliance!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
The Windy City, which is still the greatest city on earth! While I will always appreciate the toughness and work ethic of Chicago, I’m loving the more comfortable climate of Arizona.
What I can’t stop talking about...
How communication and building healthy relationships are critical elements to building a successful family, a successful business, and a successful self!
What you might not know about me...
I started working for an insurance company at the tender age of 17, having grown up in the insurance industry since that age.
Jessica Smith
Administrative Assistant
602.955.5353 Ext 306
jessica@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Smiles are contagious, pass it on.
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
They encourage you to be the best of what you want to be. I love the work out of the mind that happens in this awesome company.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
I’m ready to learn it all, and learning it all is what I have been given! The website is my home away from home, your flyers are ready at the front desk, oh and yes that meeting you heard about is all set up and ready at go.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
Your past molds you but I am not partial to fungus (pass on the mushrooms please). I live today for what it is - a gift - and don't look back or you might trip on that huge opportunity in front of you.
What I can’t stop talking about...
I can't stop talking about the website. Who knew that coding and web design, art and music had so much in common; with insurance.
It's fascinating.
What you might not know about me...
I lived in the coffee industry for a decade. I would open Starbucks and set them up, train staff, even fix the machines. Then about three months in I would head to the next location to do it all over again. I always wanted to open a coffee shop with a bookstore on the first floor and the coffee shop on the second floor.
It could still happen!
Joe Weirather
Application Architect
602.955.5353 300
joe@westernassetprotection.com
Direct Line: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
01101000 01100101 01101100 01101100 01101111 00100000 01110111 01101111 01110010 01101100 01100100
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
From the front desk to the corner office, everybody is smart, friendly, helpful, creative, and dedicated to the bone. That kind of alchemy is a rare find, and I appreciate being a part of it!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Pretty much anything technical, though my focus is on new application initiatives, features, security, and support.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
Alameda, CA. A great little town in the Bay Area. I came to AZ in 1993 to attend ASU's School of Architecture, planted roots quickly, and have no plans to leave.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Business. Security. Technology. Dogs. Crock pot and outdoor cooking. Making things. Progress. Remodeling. WAP.
What you might not know about me...
I love my tech job, but I also enjoy creativity though music, visual and performing arts, photography, home improvement projects, etc.
Mitch Shelton
Systems Administrator and Data Analyst
602.955.5353 Ext 293
mitch@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Mitchapalooza : Commissions Sleuth – Seeking To Find Your Money!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I challenge my comfort zone daily, and achieve goals I never thought possible, while generating success for our agents and business. How cool is THAT?
Ask me about (at WAP)...
COMMISSIONS! The when’s, who’s and how much’s!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I am from South Dakota, where the four Presidents’ heads are carved in stone! With that comes sub-zero degree weather and a white film on the ground that never ceases! After 24 years, a permanent vacation to Arizona was taken!
What I can’t stop talking about...
My son Leif! He is a rock star that loves to workout with me (T25, Zumba and CrossFit) and is like my personal trainer, always saying “One more mom - you got this! YOU GOT THIS!!!” And also my love for the outdoors and all the activities that go along with it.
What you might not know about me...
I started riding snowmobiles at age three and competed in snowmobile ice drag racing when I was seven. I am a pin-up style grease monkey that loves to restore vintage cars and trucks. I have always wanted to custom build a motorcycle from scratch!
Molly Barrett
Sales Support
602.955.5353 Ext 287
molly@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
“Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about” – Oscar Wilde
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
The amazing family environment and the opportunity to learn something new every day!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Where the good snacks are! I’ll hook you up!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I’m a military brat, so I’m from a little bit of everywhere and then eventually landed in Phoenix. Despite all the sunshine and the heat, I decided to stay in Arizona to stay closer to my Dad and Brother.
What I can’t stop talking about...
My cats! You can also count on me to always be talking about movies and T.V. shows.
What you might not know about me...
I am Batman.
Nic LeClair
Commissions Analyst
602.955.5353 Ext 302
nic@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Golf Fanatic and Numbers Guy
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I enjoy being at WAP because I feel like I’m one of the family - which means I’ll be taken care of as much as I’ll be heckled!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Where your money is! If you have any commission questions, I’m your guy!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I am from the frigid state of Wisconsin where we love our cheese (especially deep fried cheese curds, yummmm). Most recently, I was in Colorado where my better half is from, and we’re now in Arizona so she can get her doctorate in Psychology. I’m happy to be along for the ride!
What I can’t stop talking about...
Technology and sports. Elon Musk is my hero.
What you might not know about me...
I am a former PGA Professional and I play all the instruments needed for a rock band (even vocals).
Rachel Fanguy
Contracting Service Specialist
602.955.5353 Ext 301
rachel@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
”Rachel Fanguy – Your friendly neighborhood contracting specialist!”
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
The super positive atmosphere and the fun people are great. There’s always something new to learn and someone willing to help teach it.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Contracts and licenses!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I grew up in Austin, Texas, the live music capitol of the world. After eighteen years of fun there, I came to Phoenix to attend Arizona State University, and after graduation I found WAP!
What I can’t stop talking about...
Books! I love to read and can often be found with my nose in a book. Mystery, fantasy, history… the only thing longer than my list of favorite books is the list of books I want to read.
What you might not know about me...
I love baking. Cupcakes, cobblers, cookies, and my specialty, cream cheese brownies! Baking is its own reward, because after all the work is done, I’ve got something delicious to show for it. (Editor's Note: She makes an awesome blueberry cobbler!)
Rosemary Moreno
Broker Service Specialist
602.955.5353 Ext 297
rosemary@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Excel Queen! There’s nothing you can’t do in Excel!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
They inspire my “learn and grow” mantra.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
How reports can help improve your sales production. Oh and anything Excel – I’m WAP’s Official Excel Queen!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I was born and raised in Phoenix, the youngest of six, by two immigrant parents who wanted a better life for their children. Hard work and responsibility were embedded in me by example early on, which has shaped my career and life.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Pivot Tables…Pivot Tables…Pivot Tables…I call them PT’s!! Wanna see one?
What you might not know about me...
I LOVE the arts! My mother is a dramatic poet, and my father, a pastry chef. My brother is a singer and I can work a karaoke bar pretty well too! My children play a variety of instruments, sing, and write. I’m also dabbling in acting, having appeared as an extra in small budget films for a friend who has a production company.
Sande Ellett
HR Manager and Executive Assistant to Paul Rose and Mari Rose Tautimes
602.955.5353 Ext 296
sande@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Calendar Queen…I keep Paul and Mari on task and on time!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
We aren’t employees, we’re a family here. We support the business, and bring out the best in each other in our common goal of taking great care of our clients and growing WAP.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Is Paul available? LOL!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I was born and raised in SoCal, and still consider myself a California girl. I migrated to Arizona, and recently returned once again to be closer to family, after a fantastic four year stint in Pittsburgh. Go Stillers! (That's not a misspelling - it's the way people from the 'Burgh say Steelers!)
What I can’t stop talking about...
How happy I am and how good my life is! I believe everything always works out the way it’s supposed to, and positive thoughts create a positive life.
What you might not know about me...
Although I was born and raised in the big city, my dream is to live on a ranch or farm with a big barn and a windmill. And I’ve always wanted to be a storm-chaser!
Sherri Johnson
Broker Service Specialist
602.955.5353 Ext 288
sherri@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Sherri Johnson, Life Changer - Changing Lives!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I don’t have co-workers at WAP, I have work-family. Our magic starts at the top with our phenomenal leadership who inspire, motivate and empower our entire team. Our organization's success is a direct reflection of that. I love it here!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
How I can help you be successful. LET'S DO THIS!!!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I was born in Queens, New York and lived in Tucson, Arizona for 25+ years before relocating to Phoenix. My career in healthcare began in 2002 and 9 years later, I first connected with WAP while working on the health plan side of insurance. In 2013, I joined the WAP team and entered the wonderful world of independent brokers. Best decision I ever made!
What I can’t stop talking about...
My children – Asia, Johnny and JayQuon. They are my "why", my motivation, my inspiration to keep going and strive to live my best life everyday! They make me better.
What you might not know about me...
Hardcore football mom of 2 college students and a 10 year old genius. I'm a foodie who loves to travel and try new things. Cooking is not my favorite pastime but I do make a killer lumpia. I have a soft spot in my heart for seniors and find great joy in helping them. Combining that with my passion for Sales and Marketing is my recipe for success!
Suzie Maschino
Broker Service Specialist
602.955.5353 Ext 287
suzie@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Suzie Maschino – Resident perfectionist.
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I enjoy the wonderful people that I get to work with every day. I am very grateful for my WAP family. Here, I have been inspired and encouraged and praised to make my “job” my own. There are stressful days and there are days that my abs hurt from laughing so hard. It’s all good….
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Anything…I am a professional answer finder!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I am from Omaha, Nebraska. The sunny “warm” weather brought me here in 2001. If you have ever driven through Nebraska you would understand :)
What I can’t stop talking about...
My fur-kids, Pugslie & Marlee, fawn pugs that are 16 and 11 years old respectively. I wear a lot of black and let’s just say I have a vast collection of lint rollers! Various hiking adventures, my favorite hike was on the Napali coast in Kauai to the secluded Kalalau Beach only accessible by foot or kayak.
What you might not know about me...
I enjoy being outdoors and have logged over 500 miles hiking the Grand Canyon. I am a PADI Certified Open Water SCUBA diver…that lives in the desert! I have a Biology degree because I “liked” science in high school – what was I thinking?!?
Solana Bottem
Vice President of Operations
602.955.5353 Ext 226
solana@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Solana Bottem, Director of Operations and “IT” Girl, problem solver!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I love the innovation and creativity here at WAP. I am extremely proud of our technology products, projects and the ability to collaborate with other IT partners to develop world class technology solutions. We work hard to put the best tech in the hands of the best people. Speaking of the best people, here at WAP, there is not a day that goes by without amazing feats of collaboration and high fives galore!
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Technology projects here at WAP including Salesforce, Service Cloud, our new Contracting Wizard. WAP technology vision in general. And anything to do with branding and process improvement.
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I grew up under the grey cloudy skies of the Great Pacific Northwest, in Seattle and on Bainbridge Island. In 2008, I moved to San Diego for obvious reasons. I came to Phoenix in 2013 to be closer to family and now also have a whole new extended family - my WAP family.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Design blogs, business articles, books, GOT, travel and adventure, including culinary hits and misses. Wine!! Or the daily adventures of Handsome Harvey, the best-looking Boxer you have ever met and my small but mighty Lulu Pug. I LOVE anything to do with tech, so any tech toy or app discovery!
What you might not know about me...
I love travel! I have seen the start of the Iditarod in Anchorage (cold and loud), a bull fight in Madrid (never again), the Mona Lisa in Paris (smaller than expected), a perfect Spring day in Prague (magic) and enjoyed a pint of Guinness in Dublin (Slainte). My latest love is Mexico City!
TJ Faletoi
Contracting Service Specialist
602.955.5353 Ext 286
tj@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Your Contracting Service Specialist with a flair of Aloha!
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
WAP has become my family away from home. WAP has allowed me to be myself and have been very supportive with my career and personal goals. I hate having to call my work a “job” because unlike other companies I’ve worked for, I’m always excited to show up and fulfill my duties as a Contracting Service Specialist and know that I’m making a difference in and out of the company. The dynamic here at WAP is like no other and our agent partners can vouch for that.
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Contracting with any of our carriers – my team and I are here to assist you!
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I am from the beautiful 50th State, Hawaii! I moved here at the end of 2010 from Honolulu, O’ahu to escape the cost of living and unstable economy. Although it’s been rocky for the first few years here in Arizona, my life has definitely changed for the better! WAP has definitely been a deciding factor as to why I’m planted firm here in Phoenix.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Other than WAP, I can’t stop talking about food, volleyball, and the paranormal. I love food! Especially Korean, Chinese and Polynesian dishes! Volleyball - I’m an indoor player, setter, with a strong left hand. It’s the only sport I’m good at. And last but not least, the paranormal – I’ve experienced many unexplained occurrences in my life and am intrigued about the subject. It would be a dream to become a parapsychologist and a paranormal investigator.
What you might not know about me...
I am a genealogist. I’ve been working on my maternal family lineage for the past 15 years – I’m fascinated by the way our ancestors traveled around the world and their circumstances that led them to sacrifice so much in their lives. My great-grandfather was a paramount chief of Samoa and I am his name sake. I take pride in my Polynesian culture and I’ve come to appreciate it more since moving to Arizona.
Todd Welch
Director of Finance
602.955.5353 Ext 299
todd@westernassetprotection.com
Toll Free: 800-955-5390
My business card should say...
Director of Finance, Advisor, Friend
Why I enjoy being at WAP...
I love being a part of a growing business that puts integrity and quality first! We have a stellar team on the pitch at all times! (Big soccer fan!)
Ask me about (at WAP)...
Where’s my check? What time is meditation?
Where I am from and what brought me here...
I came from the health care industry and started working with the great people at WAP as a consultant while completing my MBA. I was excited to join them full-time because of their dedication towards achieving REAL success.
What I can’t stop talking about...
Success principles, management articles.
What you might not know about me...
I like to write.