Ryan S. McClure was searching for a new career due to a company closure when he quite literally stumbled into a recruitment booth for Modern Woodmen of America at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. The field made sense to him, and he began his business as a financial representative. Modern Woodmen of America is a fraternal benefit society based in Rock Island, Ill. Modern Woodmen serves more than 750,000 members nationwide, offering life insurance, annuity, investment and banking products, along with fraternal member benefits for families and their communities. Ryan strives to provide quality, personalized service and to be approachable for everyone.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Getting involved in networking and Lincoln Chamber events. I knew I should get involved from Day 1 of my business, but I hesitated. It has helped me develop contacts and confidence that have been of great benefit to me.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife Angie and I have been married for five years. We just celebrated our daughter Aurora’s 1st Birthday. Angie is a partner at Kotik and McClure Law. My brother, sister, and I have all started our families in Lincoln after growing up around the Wahoo, NE area.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Losing my previous “job” due to company closing, having a child, and starting a business all in 2010. It was great to have the opportunity to start a business for myself and help others.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
RELAX with the family. Pretty low key in off time.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I named a dam- “Lake Wanahoo” in 1990 that was finally completed in 2010.
What are you the most proud of?
I’m proud to represent a organization that was formed for what I think are the right reasons, and continues to give back to our community in so many different ways.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Four words: Happy Wife, Happy Life!
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
To build a successful career based on educated and informed members of the community, rather than high pressure sales.
How would your friends describe you?
I hope they would say “considerate, and willing to help with whatever needs to be done”.
Which talent would you most like to have?
If I could wake up tomorrow with the skill to play the guitar, I would be really happy!
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would be more committed to an exercise routine.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
The Law of Success and the Freakonomics/Superfreakonomics set.
What is your favorite movie?
The Prestige. Inception was great, too.
What is your favorite TV show?
Ax Men or Ice Road Truckers
What is your favorite Lincoln restaurant?
Mazatlan or Lazlo’s
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
I think Edison. He invented so many things everybody uses every day.
What is the best way to contact you?
Call me at 402-480-2534 or email me at ryansmcclure@mwarep.org.