Every month, Jason Monczka pens our 5 Minutes With… column; a spotlight on the visionaries shaping culture, business, and impact, offering candid, story-rich moments that reveal not just what they’ve built, but why it matters.
This month, however, we’re turning the table on him. In honor of our Giving Issue, we wanted to explore Jason’s own passion for connection. He’s a giver at heart- whether through relationships, community, or opportunity, and we felt it was time you got to know the person behind the column.
Why do you believe curated, in-person conversations are more powerful than digital ones?
I think it’s a step beyond what you’re seeing. There is nothing greater than feeling a true connection with someone... finding a bond that ties you together. To foster this type of environment, I go beyond just hosting events; I purposefully invite people I want to introduce to one another. I’ve seen countless partnerships form and prosper simply by bringing the right people together. Some say it’s a gift. Maybe it’s just thinking about what’s important to others.
Can you share an example of a venture that was born from simply putting the right people in the right room?
My gosh, I’ve been encouraged countless times to write a book on all of the people I have brought together and the ventures they have formed. One of the largest capital raises in Arizona’s history- worth hundreds of millions- came out of it. And that’s just one example. It all stems from putting good, honest, like-minded people in the same room.
What inspired you to launch Visionary Voices, and how has it evolved since that first gathering?
I’ve hosted a lot of different, high-profile events throughout my career, mainly to bring good people together. Last year, I did some unique things like flying in a famous French chef for a cooking demo. This year and moving forward, I want to elevate conversation and bring world-caliber people here to Arizona. I see Visionary Voices growing by making it about and for others and having them use it to add value to their network. I'm hopeful it will become a staple of aspiration in the Valley.
Most CEOs spend their lives playing defense, protecting what they have instead of leveraging risk as an advantage. What does it take to flip that mindset?
With insurance rates set to spike as much as 50% next year, I refuse to let my clients sit back and play defense. Instead, I’m equipping them with captives and 831(b) plans; tools that reduce costs, protect their operating budget, and quietly build fortunes.
How do you hope the next generation will carry forward your vision?
That’s the thing about mentoring: it’s not my vision. It’s about building someone’s confidence so they can carry forward on their own. I feel immense pride when I know I’ve positively touched another person’s life.
Visionary Voices Returns: December 9
A night reserved for business leaders who think bigger and demand more. This gathering promises intimate dialogue, high-value relationships, and the spark to lead bolder. Seats are limited. Coming soon: the topic and guest speakers that will elevate the conversation even further.
About Jason
Jason Monczka is a PVCL columnist and principal at Pomeroy Group, where he helps mid-market companies navigate complexity in commercial and group health insurance. He also founded Visionary Voices, a private series uniting respected leaders in business, entertainment, and culture for conversations that don’t happen anywhere else. jason.monczka@pomeroygroup.com