About Us

We understand because we’ve been there.

Suncoast Insurance Advisors began with the notion that if insurance exists to protect people and their livelihood, then insurance should be about people. Founder and owner, Ryan Southerland, spent years working with various insurance agencies and saw first-hand how these companies would prioritize profit over people. As a family man with a strong belief in caring for one’s neighbor as yourself, Suncoast Insurance Advisors was created to help guide individuals, families, and commercial businesses to get set up with the right plan that fits their budget and their needs.

We’re the guide to help you at all times.

Suncoast Insurance Advisors has already helped thousands of people receive coverage for their home, auto, and assets. Our desire to build a relationship with our clients paves the way to navigate through various insurance plans and to find the right one for each individual. Each of our clients understands that their personal agent is standing by at all times to help walk through any questions or to be there should a tragedy occur.

Who We Are

Meet the Team

Ryan K. Southerland

Ryan K. Southerland

Owner & Principle Agent

Ryan K. Southerland has been an insurance agent in the Tampa Bay area for over fourteen years. He was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. He studied at Saint Leo University where he received a degree in Psychology. His career in insurance began as a representative with State Farm Insurance. After two years in the industry, Ryan was offered a position as an independent agent with Tampa Bay Insurance Center. He was there for over seven years and then decided to take an opportunity in corporate industry. He accepted a position at HUB International of Florida as a Personal Lines Advisor and was there for three years before deciding to open his own agency. He formed Suncoast Insurance Advisors, LLC in 2018. Ryan’s extensive knowledge in the Tampa area has made it easy for his clients to seek guidance from him in this vast market. His dedication, resolve and insight are key factors in him securing his clients the best options for their insurance needs. Ryan is currently active in Rotary in which he was a past president of his club. He is a Paul Harris Fellow where he is involved in many charitable projects.

Patricia Hackett Southerland

Director of Operations

Patricia Hackett Southerland serves as Director of Operations at Suncoast Insurance Advisors. Originally from the Chicago area, she earned her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Illinois State University before moving to Florida. With 14 years of experience as a Speech Language Pathologist and Director of Rehab, Patricia brings strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills to the team. Outside the office, she enjoys family time, community events, and serving as an active Rotarian.

Karyn Nicely

Sales and Operations Manager | Licensed Florida Insurance Agent

Karyn Nicely brings more than 20 years of insurance experience to her role as Sales and Operations Manager. As a licensed Florida insurance agent, she is known for her leadership, client care, and ability to guide people through their coverage options with clarity and confidence. Karyn values trust, communication, and helping clients protect what matters most. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with her three children.

Michelle Veloz

Personal Lines Producer

Michelle Veloz is a licensed Florida independent insurance agent who helps clients find coverage for their home, auto, and business needs. A lifelong learner with a background in ministry, Michelle combines education, service, and relationship-building in her approach to insurance. She believes in empowering clients with knowledge so they can make confident coverage decisions. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys reading, relaxing with a good movie, and spending time with her family and Schnoodle.

Suzy Alvarez

Personal Lines Insurance Advisor

Suzy Alvarez brings a strong financial background to her role as a Personal Lines Insurance Advisor. After years in the mortgage industry helping clients through the home-buying process, she transitioned into insurance to continue helping people protect their most valuable assets. Suzy uses her knowledge of both mortgages and insurance to make coverage feel simple and approachable. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and reading.

Stacie Amoriello

Personal Lines Insurance Advisor

Stacie Amoriello brings a warm, detail-oriented approach to her role as a Personal Lines Insurance Advisor. Originally from Long Island, she moved to Florida in 2016 and began her insurance career with State Farm in 2018. After gaining valuable industry experience, she joined Suncoast Insurance Advisors and advanced into her current producer role. Stacie enjoys building strong client relationships and, outside of work, loves animals, creative writing, go-karting, and relaxing with a good movie.

Stefani Cooley

Insurance Advisor

Stefani Cooley is a proud Tampa native who brings strong attention to detail, a collaborative mindset, and a hands-on work ethic to Suncoast Insurance Advisors. She enjoys problem-solving and helping clients and teammates find practical solutions. Outside of work, Stefani loves spending time outdoors, especially boating and off-roading in her Jeep. She also enjoys time with her two dogs, volunteering in the community, working on cars, and tackling home improvement projects.

Amber Lindgren

Insurance Advisor

Amber Lindgren brings eight years of personal lines insurance experience to Suncoast Insurance Advisors. As a Florida native, she understands the unique coverage challenges local clients face and is committed to helping them make confident, informed decisions. Amber focuses on finding the right protection without unnecessary costs, always leading with honesty and integrity. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and six children, visiting Florida’s beaches and rivers, and cheering at her kids’ sporting events.