Here's another chance to catch up on some of the panel discussions The Brokerage Inc. had at their annual 2025 AEP Kickoff events as agents start their selling season. We look back at these discussions in this replay from the DFW event. Our President Emeritus, Mike Smith talks with reps from the top Medicare Supplement carriers to discuss the plan benefits for 2025. Included are reps from: Aetna Blue Cross Blue Shield Cigna Humana UnitedHealthcare Wellcare If you would like to see each of these ...
Oct 15, 2024•30 min
During The Brokerage Inc. 2025 AEP Kickoff events, we hosted panels discussing important information for insurance agents as they prepare for their selling season. We are taking a look back at these discussions in this replay from the DFW event. Our Executive Vice President, Josh Slattery talks with reps from the top Medicare Advantage carriers to discuss the plan benefits for 2025. Included are reps from: Aetna Blue Cross Blue Shield Cigna Humana UnitedHealthcare Wellcare If you would like to s...
Oct 08, 2024•35 min
Were you able to make it to one of our annual AEP roadshows this year? If not, we have you covered. Fresh off our 7 Annual AEP Kickoff events, we are sharing some of our discussions. The first is a discussion titled "Fireside Chat on the Inflation Reduction Act Impact & Part D with our Executive Vice President, Josh Slattery and Bill Hepscher, Founder of The Canadian Medstore. It is an in-depth conversation about how prescription drug changes will affect you and your clients. If you would li...
Oct 01, 2024•26 min
If you have been around since the beginning of Facebook, you have probably noticed differences in how you see and share your content. The same goes for Facebook Ads. The Facebook algorithm is creating better results for organic content and stories rather than ads. In this episode of The Broker Link, Bob Whitis with BrightFire busts a few myths about using Facebook Ads for Independent Insurance Agents. Here are some suggestions for getting better traction on Facebook: Post consistently Invite pol...
Sep 17, 2024•22 min
Are you planning on attending one of The Brokerage Inc. Kickoff events? We really hope to see you there! Each year at the time The Brokerage Inc. hosts a kickoff event in four Texas cities. This year we have expanded it into three more. These events are to help our agents prepare for the upcoming AEP and OEP. We have already hosted our Miami, Tampa, and El Paso roadshows but have four more coming up in Texas. In this episode of the podcast, Gillan walks you through what to expect at each event. ...
Sep 09, 2024•5 min
Have you considered using AI in your business? What is the best way to use it? It can be very effective if used properly. In this episode of The Broker Link, we talk with Bob Whitis from BrightFire. BrightFire provides a suite of tools for digital marketing solutions. So how can you use AI in your insurance business? One way is for brand awareness and messaging. Another way to use it is for content, code, answers to questions, and so much more. Some AI solutions include ChatGPT, Gemini by Google...
Aug 27, 2024•25 min
Wouldn't it be great if insurance agents could have a place to go to help inform and keep their clients? Now you do. The Brokerage Inc. is offering its agents a way to stay in touch and provide the very latest, up-to-date information. It's called the Member Retention Program and is now available. In this episode of The Broker Link, The Brokerage Inc. Executive Vice President, Josh Slattery introduces us to the Member Retention Program. This is a re-watch of a webinar he shared with agents. He wi...
Aug 20, 2024•18 min
Do you understand all the changes coming to Medicare Part D in 2025? These changes are significant so we decided to run through everything you need to know! In this episode of The Broker Link, Josh Slattery, Executive VP at The Brokerage Inc. and Regional Sales Director, David Ireland talk through all of the changes. They will help you: Understand the critical Part D changes for 2025 and how it impacts both the agents and members Determine what consumer and agent behaviors will change as a resul...
Aug 13, 2024•43 min
As we approach the insurance selling season, it's time to review and strategize your techniques for selling. In this episode of The Broker Link, we peek in on a presentation by our National Health Sales Director, Mike Papuc on mastering your sales technique. You will gain insights on understanding client pain points, positioning yourself as a multifaceted solution maker, and practical strategies for identifying and addressing client concerns, building trust, and driving loyalty. Unlock success b...
Aug 06, 2024•36 min
It's been a very turbulent year in the insurance industry, are you ready for all the changes? Do you have the tools necessary to thrive in AEP 2025? The Brokerage Inc. is here to help guide you through. In this episode of The Broker Link, The Brokerage Inc.'s Executive Vice President, Josh Slattery and President Emeritus, Mike Smith break down all the information you will need to have a successful AEP. You will learn; Where we stand with the CMS Final Rule of 2024 How the political season will i...
Jul 31, 2024•30 min
Have you ever considered selling travel insurance to your clients? Travel insurance can be an essential part of your travel planning, especially for Medicare customers. In this episode of The Broker Link, we hear from Todd Taylor of GeoBlue, about the importance of travel insurance. We also explore all of GeoBlue's travel insurance plans, why your clients need it, and how it works, including premiums, policy periods, and coverage options. We'll delve into the details of what's covered, such as m...
Jul 23, 2024•24 min
How much do you keep up with Social Security? Do you understand how it's calculated or even how it's even changed over the years? For the second year straight, The Brokerage Inc. hosted a special webinar with Social Security expert Jody Harris. And today we are bringing all of that information to you. In this episode you will learn: Why you should coordinate your Social Security benefits with other retirement sources How your benefits are calculated What is the impact of your marital status, wor...
Jul 02, 2024•33 min
Insurance agents, have you ever thought you would like to build your own insurance agency? And if you just had the tools and knowledge you could do it. Now you do! In this episode of The Broker Link, Regional Medicare Sales Director, David Ireland explains what it takes to start an agency, recruit agents, and grow it into a successful business. How many years do you need as an agent? Do you need start-up money to start an agency? What will be different? He answers all these questions and more in...
Jun 18, 2024•35 min
Are you thinking about expanding your insurance business? Have you considered becoming a Registered Social Security Analyst or RSSA? Insurance agents are overlooking this lead generation strategy. In this episode of The Broker Link, we talk with Thomas Drapala, Registered Social Security Analyst's Director of Strategic Partnerships. He dives into how agents can help their clients make the best decisions for their retirement while growing their businesses. Drapala goes over what you get in return...
Jun 11, 2024•22 min
Have you been thinking about getting into selling Medicare? Or maybe you are a health and life insurance agent wanting to expand your portfolio. This is a great time to get into Medicare sales and we want to help you get started. In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, we go back to the basics of how to get started in Medicare sales. One of The Brokerage Inc.'s Regional Sales Directors, David Ireland walks us through the process of selling Medicare. You will also learn: How to get certified ...
Jun 04, 2024•46 min
It's that time of year again when people hit the roads to take to the skies for their annual vacation. It's also a great time of year for agents to see if their clients need travel insurance. Adding travel insurance to your portfolio is a great way to increase your cross-selling opportunities. In this replay of our travel insurance episode, Ronda Logan, the Director of Business Development with IMG walks agents through the different products they offer including the iTravel insured program, shor...
May 28, 2024•47 min
In the market for an FMO? Now is the time to start doing your research. An FMO or Field Marketing Organization is an insurance marketing organization that is a third party between the agent and the insurance carrier. The insurance carriers rely on these entities to support the agent at no charge to the independent broker. In this episode of The Broker Link, Gillan breaks down the differences between an FMO, IMO, and GA. He will also share what to look for when choosing the right partner. Some th...
May 21, 2024•21 min
In business and life, you can learn a lot from the people who have experienced it before you. At The Brokerage Inc., we have the honor and pleasure to have Cheryl Hopkin as our CEO. Cheryl and her husband Ross started this company in the 1970s and over time it continues to be one of the premier FMOs (Field Marketing Organizations) in the country. At a recent employee summit, Cheryl spoke with Ivonne Acuna about her history, what it takes to be a business owner and how she feels about all of her ...
May 15, 2024•42 min
If you don't fully understand the new CMS Final Rule pertaining to FMOs you are not alone. It's still a little unclear. In this episode of The Broker Link, The Brokerage Inc. President Emeritus, Mike Smith talks with John Greene, Sr. Vice President of Government Affairs of NABIP (National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals). This discussion occurred at an event with insurance agents and agency owners. You will hear questions from agents on what matters to them. Please excuse any...
May 07, 2024•39 min
Agents, do you ever talk with your clients about Social Security? If not you should start discussing their benefits and options when to take it. In this episode of The Broker Link, Mike Smith, a newly appointed Registered Social Security Analyst (RSSA) discusses what agents should know about Social Security. He will also talk about the process of becoming an analyst. If you want to learn more about RSSA, you can visit their website www.rssa.com . Or you can reach out to Mike or our office at The...
Apr 24, 2024•29 min
Do you have any plans to help clients with Long Term Care? It's a growing problem that could get even worse in the coming years. In this episode of The Broker Link, we sit down with Mike Smith, President Emeritus at The Brokerage Inc. to discuss this growing problem and how you can help with the solution. If you want to learn more about Long Term Care or any of the products at The Brokerage Inc., visit www.thebrokerageinc.com ....
Apr 17, 2024•26 min
As we continue our series on SEP Success, today we take a look at how to bundle some of your products. Health expert, Michelle McLaren explains the power of strategic bundling and how it can help you thrive in the off-season. Michelle tells us how to: Learn client-focused solutions Bundle packages Key practices for success in insurance sales Explain a client's qualifications Help clients dealing with Medicaid Unwinding Talk about deductibles And a lot more! And if you would like to start this se...
Apr 09, 2024•35 min
How can you maximize sales of ACA health insurance plans during Special Enrollment Periods? In this episode of the Broker Link, we listen to a webinar hosted by Michelle McLaren, a Sales Specialist with The Brokerage Inc. Michelle teaches us about qualifying life events, plan options, and affordability programs to boost your sales. She offers valuable tips and strategies for selling ACA plans successfully outside of Open Enrollment. This is a great chance for you to enhance your sales strategies...
Mar 19, 2024•49 min
The Brokerage Inc. ACA Health team is growing and expanding, gearing up for our best year yet! In this episode of The Broker Link, you will meet our new Health National Sales Director, Mike Papuc who talks with John Ross Hopkin, our Director of Strategic Partnerships about all the exciting things going on in the ACA department. You will learn about: Our growth in other states Sales Techniques Cross Selling strategies Supplemental Health Call Centers Business Retention And a lot more! If you want...
Mar 12, 2024•30 min
NABIP held its annual Capitol Conference 2024 last week in Washington, DC to discuss topics and legislation affecting health insurance professionals. The Brokerage Inc. has always supported NABIP and the Capitol Conference. Mike Smith, our President Emeritus, and Josh Slattery, our Vice President, attended the conference to see what to expect in the upcoming year. NABIP is an organization that works hard to ensure all Americans have access to high quality, affordable Healthcare and related servi...
Mar 05, 2024•36 min
Protecting your business from cyber threats is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your success. Cybercriminals won't hesitate to infiltrate your online presence and do damage in the process. If you are an insurance agent or agency, you should take a look at what CyberFin can do for you. In this episode of The Broker Link, Chris and Daniel from CyberFin run down all the potential threats insurance agents and agencies are facing. They will also tell you how you can protect your...
Feb 27, 2024•25 min
Are you looking to give your Medicare Clients financial advice? There are times when we want to help our clients beyond their insurance needs. Now there is a partner you can share with your clients. They are Retirable, a service providing your clients financial wellness benefits while growing your client relationships, retention and revenue. In this episode of The Broker Link, Gillan speaks with Tyler End, the Founder and CEO of Retirable. They talk about how this service works and how you can h...
Feb 20, 2024•15 min
Looking for something new and different to give this Valentine's Day? What about protecting your family and loved ones with an insurance policy? February is Insure Your Love month and the perfect time for talking to your clients about protecting the ones they love. In this episode of The Broker Link, Chris Newberry discusses all the way you can protect your family and how you can secure a policy quickly without hassle. If you don't offer life insurance or final expense insurance, you should cont...
Feb 13, 2024•25 min
Welcome back to The Broker Link podcast! As we kick off our 4th season, we give you a look at what you can expect in this new season of the podcast. Our host and Director of Marketing and Communications, Gillan Boyer takes a deep dive into how we will break down our new season. We have a lot of incredible podcast topics to share with you in the new season and you can expect all NEW content. We hope you will enjoy the 2024 season and find the support you need to grow your insurance business. Plea...
Feb 06, 2024•12 min
If you are an insurance agent and live in the South, you have probably heard of Miguel Delgado of Elite Partners. He is the founder and CEO of this very successful insurance agency. But his insurance journey wasn't clear-cut nor an easy one. In this episode of The Broker Link, we conclude our series on successful Agency Partners of The Brokerage Inc. Miguel didn't start his career in insurance but quickly grew Elite Partners into one of the biggest agencies in the South. He explains his rise in ...
Dec 05, 2023•10 min
