The Broker Link
The Broker Link empowers insurance agents to sell more, earn more and stay independent. Hosted by The Brokerage Inc.
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Breaking Down CMS’s Proposed 2027 Rule with Josh Slattery
12/18/2025
Breaking Down CMS’s Proposed 2027 Rule with Josh Slattery
In this episode of The Broker Link, Gillan Boyer and Josh Slattery unpack the proposed CMS 2027 rule and what it could mean for agents, consumers, and the future of the insurance industry. The discussion highlights a clear shift toward deregulation, with several proposed changes aimed at reducing administrative burden while increasing flexibility for both agents and consumers. Key topics include updates to Special Enrollment Period (SEP) rules, allowing plan changes when providers leave a network, and the removal of the 12-hour delay between educational and marketing events. Gillan and Josh also break down proposals to shorten record retention requirements for call recordings, simplify TPMO disclaimers, and eliminate certain low-value compliance requirements. The conversation explores how these changes could give agents more time to focus on what evidence shows matters most — educating and serving clients. Additionally, the episode covers proposed updates to the Stars program and discusses the long-term impact of making IRA changes permanent, particularly regarding Part D cost structures. Overall, the proposed 2027 rule signals a meaningful shift in CMS’s approach — one that industry professionals are cautiously optimistic about as it moves toward a more practical, agent-friendly regulatory environment. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Ripped From the Headlines: What Kyle Busch’s $8.5M Lawsuit Really Means for IUL
12/09/2025
Ripped From the Headlines: What Kyle Busch’s $8.5M Lawsuit Really Means for IUL
In this episode of The Broker Link, Gillan Boyer and Chris Newberry explore the headline-grabbing lawsuit filed by NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, who is suing Pacific Life Insurance for $8.5 million. Busch alleges that his index universal life (IUL) policy was designed to over-compensate the agent, ultimately hurting the long-term performance of his plan. Chris breaks down what’s actually happening behind the scenes and offers clarity for advisors who may be fielding client questions. He emphasizes that IUL remains a strong and effective product when designed properly — and that this case appears to stem from the agent’s compensation structure, not the integrity of Pacific Life. The conversation reinforces a key message for agents: 👉 Good advisors put client needs first. When policies are structured for the client — not the commission — performance, trust, and long-term relationships thrive. A timely, educational episode that reminds the industry to stay focused on ethics, transparency, and client-first solutions. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Exploring Alternate Health Solutions for 2026: Meet Presidio Healthcare
12/03/2025
Exploring Alternate Health Solutions for 2026: Meet Presidio Healthcare
In this episode of The Broker Link, National Health Sales Director Mike Papuc breaks down what agents can expect heading into the 2026 Open Enrollment Season — especially in light of the final CMS rules. With rising demand for alternate solutions outside the ACA market, Mike introduces Presidio Healthcare, a new carrier partner now available in Texas. Mike is joined by Cameron Mason, COO of Presidio, who shares insight into their flagship offering: The Fortress Plan, a non-ACA solution created to provide more affordability and flexibility for consumers. The plan features a $0 deductible, 50% coinsurance, and low max out-of-pocket options ranging from $2,500–$10,000. It also includes benefits for specified diseases and accidents, and offers maternity coverage with a $5,000 deductible during the first year. Presidio has aggressive growth plans, aiming to expand into 5–10 states by 2026, giving agents more tools to serve clients effectively in a shifting health insurance landscape. Mike emphasises that understanding and offering alternate solutions will be crucial as agents prepare for another dynamic enrollment season. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Inside Oscar Health: Growth, Innovation & the Future of ACA Coverage
11/19/2025
Inside Oscar Health: Growth, Innovation & the Future of ACA Coverage
In this episode of The Broker Link, Mike Papuc, National Health Sales Director at The Brokerage Inc., sits down with Breck Garrett, Texas Leader for Oscar, to explore the company’s rapid growth and forward-thinking strategy in the ACA marketplace. Oscar has surged past 2 million members and is preparing to expand into 20 states by 2026, including new markets like Alabama and Mississippi. Breck shares how Oscar is differentiating itself by designing personalized plans tailored to specific health needs — including solutions for diabetics, menopausal women, and other unique member populations. The conversation also highlights Oscar’s new AI-powered member support platform, Oswell, built to deliver faster answers, smarter navigation, and a more intuitive experience for members. With a Net Promoter Score in the low 60s, Oscar continues to lead the way in member satisfaction. Agents will also appreciate Oscar’s enhanced broker portal, offering real-time performance tracking and actionable insights to help partners grow and support their clients more effectively. This episode is a must-listen for agents looking to stay ahead of ACA trends and understand where the market is headed. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN UPDATE: What does this mean for the ACA?
11/10/2025
GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN UPDATE: What does this mean for the ACA?
In this timely episode of The Broker Link, Mike Papuc, National Sales Director for Health at The Brokerage Inc., joins Gillan Boyer to break down what the current government shutdown discussions could mean for the Affordable Care Act and the agents serving ACA members during open enrollment. Mike outlines clear, actionable strategies to help agents navigate uncertainty—starting with segmenting their client books based on Cost Share Reductions (CSRs) and overall eligibility for financial assistance. He walks through when to recommend $0 plans and how to position Bronze, Silver, and Gold options depending on a client’s unique circumstances. The conversation also covers alternative solutions, such as short-term medical and affordable choice products, especially important if enhanced subsidies are not extended. While projections show that the market could shrink by up to 30% without those subsidies, Mike shares encouraging news: The Brokerage Inc. is seeing a 66% year-over-year increase in ACA membership enrollments, signaling strong agent performance and consumer demand. Mike and Gillan close by urging agents to stay proactive, consistent, and relationship-focused. Serving clients well during uncertainty is what creates long-term trust—and long-term business. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Long-Term Care Awareness Month: Protecting Your Clients’ Futures
11/04/2025
Long-Term Care Awareness Month: Protecting Your Clients’ Futures
In this episode of The Broker Link, Cristal Bustillos from The Brokerage Inc. highlights the importance of Long-Term Care Awareness Month and why every advisor should be helping clients prepare for future care needs. Crystal discusses the rising costs of nursing homes and assisted living facilities and explains that Medicare and Medicaid offer limited coverage, leaving many families unprepared for the financial and emotional burden of long-term care. She shares practical solutions like long-term care insurance and life insurance policies with LTC riders, which can help clients maintain their financial security and personal dignity as they age. Crystal also encourages agents to continue their education by: Attending training sessions and webinars Using tools like the Cost of Care Calculator Completing long-term care certification courses Reviewing product guides and available resources As the year comes to a close, she reminds agents that December is the perfect time to tie up loose ends and plan ahead for a successful new year. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Bridging the Gap: UHC & Sanitas Clinics Bring Value-Based Care to San Antonio
10/29/2025
Bridging the Gap: UHC & Sanitas Clinics Bring Value-Based Care to San Antonio
In this episode of The Broker Link, Mike Papuc and Sonia Porras dive into the exclusive ACA partnership between UnitedHealthcare and Sanitas Clinics, a collaboration that’s reshaping access to care in the San Antonio community. Focused on value-based care, this partnership aims to deliver comprehensive, culturally aligned healthcare — from preventive medicine to mental health services — to better serve the Hispanic community, where more than 200,000 individuals remain uninsured. Listeners will learn how this partnership is designed to make coverage more accessible and sustainable through: 💡 Affordable plan options, including a $0 deductible Bronze plan 🩺 Comprehensive primary and virtual care ❤️ Community outreach and long-term health initiatives 💬 Commitment to maintain current commissions for agents Together, UnitedHealthcare and Sanitas Clinics are setting a new standard for community-based, value-driven healthcare in San Antonio. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Rethinking Employee Benefits: The Rise of ICHRAs with Ameriflex
10/23/2025
Rethinking Employee Benefits: The Rise of ICHRAs with Ameriflex
In this episode of The Broker Link, host John Ross Hopkin sits down with Christapher Estep, Vice President of Sales Midwest at Ameriflex to dive into the growing world of Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs). Introduced in 2018, ICHRAs are transforming how employers offer health benefits — giving businesses the ability to set defined allowances while empowering employees to choose their own health insurance plans. John and Christopher break down how this model provides flexibility, cost control, and satisfaction for both employers and employees. Tune in to learn why 90% of employers who switched to ICHRAs are staying with them, why 92% of employees say they’re satisfied, and how Ameriflex’s TAP plan is setting a new standard with compliance support, extra benefits, and a 98% client retention rate. This episode will give you the insights you need to understand why ICHRAs are one of the fastest-growing trends in employee benefits. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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The Power of Staying Connected: How Support Fuels Agent Success
10/14/2025
The Power of Staying Connected: How Support Fuels Agent Success
In this episode of The Broker Link, Mike Papuc and Trey Owens dive into the heart of what keeps agents thriving—consistent communication and meaningful support. They discuss the importance of upline check-ins that aren’t driven by an agenda but by a genuine desire to help agents grow. Trey shares insights from his experience with health insurance carriers, emphasizing that open communication is the key to lasting success. Mike adds that understanding each agent’s personal goals is essential to helping them achieve professional success. Together, they highlight how a lack of support can hold agents back, and why The Brokerage’s commitment to partnership makes all the difference. The episode wraps with a powerful reminder: don’t hesitate to speak up about what you need—your success starts with connection. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Fall Into Final Expense: Simplifying End-of-Life Planning
10/07/2025
Fall Into Final Expense: Simplifying End-of-Life Planning
In this episode of The Broker Link, Cristal Bustillos from The Brokerage Inc. explores the growing importance of final expense insurance, especially for baby boomers nearing retirement. With rising funeral and burial costs, the demand for affordable and straightforward coverage continues to grow. Cristal explains how final expense insurance offers easy qualification, with many plans providing guaranteed coverage. She also introduces a helpful cheat sheet available on The Brokerage Inc. website, outlining carrier options, underwriting types (Simplified Issue and Guaranteed Issue), and coverage limits — up to $25,000 for Guaranteed Issue and $50,000 for Simplified Issue. Agents can also access valuable resources like the Agent Portal, which streamlines the process with electronic applications and real-time status tracking. Whether you’re new to final expense insurance or looking to expand your portfolio, this episode offers practical tools and insights to help you better serve your clients. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Join Us for the 2026 Kickoff
08/20/2025
Join Us for the 2026 Kickoff
In this episode of The Broker Link, The Brokerage Inc. highlights the upcoming 2026 Kickoff Events designed to help agents gear up for both AEP and OEP. These in-person events will be hosted across multiple cities — Miami, Tampa, Houston, San Antonio, El Paso, Harlingen, Corpus Christi, and Dallas — bringing together local carrier reps, provider groups, and our Brokerage leadership team. Attendees can look forward to: Expert panel discussions The latest industry updates Best practices from top-performing agents Networking opportunities with carriers and peers Plus, enjoy exciting extras like raffles, free professional headshots, and one-on-one time with carrier representatives. 📍 Don’t miss your chance to learn, connect, and prepare for a successful year. Visit brokerageinc.com/kickoff to RSVP and reserve your spot today! Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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The Role of Life Insurance in Back-to-School Planning
08/12/2025
The Role of Life Insurance in Back-to-School Planning
In this episode of The Broker Link, Crystal Bustillos from The Brokerage Inc. discusses how the back-to-school season is the perfect time for agents to talk with parents about long-term financial planning—specifically life insurance. She highlights how juvenile life insurance can lock in low premiums, secure lifetime insurability, and build cash value for future expenses like college, a first home, or a wedding. Crystal reviews standout products, including Gerber’s Children’s Whole Life and United of Omaha’s Children’s Whole Life, plus IUL options for kids. She explains key features like guaranteed purchase options, face amount increases at age 18, and underwriting guidelines. This episode is full of actionable ideas for helping families protect their children’s futures while easing financial stress during the busy school season. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Aetna & Cigna: What’s New for 2026 with Josh Slattery
08/05/2025
Aetna & Cigna: What’s New for 2026 with Josh Slattery
In this episode of The Broker Link, Josh Slattery breaks down key carrier updates that will impact Medicare Advantage and Part D plans in 2026. Highlights include: 🔄 Cigna's rebrand to HealthSpring Following its acquisition by HCSC, Cigna’s Medicare Advantage and Part D plans will now be branded under HealthSpring. The focus will shift to HMO plans and expanded C-SNP offerings, with continued support for members with partial Medicaid eligibility. 💊 New HealthSpring benefits Expect features like a $0 tier one copay and RX deductibles on tiers 3–5, offering competitive value for members. 📈 Aetna's strategy for 2026 Led by Steve Nelson, Aetna is focused on regaining market share through D-SNP and C-SNP expansion, zero premium plans, and $0 PCP copays—all while reinforcing stability and broker support. Both carriers are prioritizing member rewards, enhanced broker tools, and adapting to regulatory changes heading into the new plan year. This episode is packed with the strategic insight agents need to stay competitive and informed for AEP 2026. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Retain Your Clients This AEP with Our Member Retention Program
07/29/2025
Retain Your Clients This AEP with Our Member Retention Program
In this episode of The Broker Link, Josh Slattery shares insights on the upcoming Member Retention Program, designed to help insurance agents proactively retain clients amid rising plan terminations and cost increases. Josh highlights: The success of last year’s retention campaign Why having a CRM and streamlined processes is critical Free tools available: direct mail, email templates, and QR codes in both English and Spanish How Medicare Pro organizes data and integrates with Simply Enroll The program is completely free and supports up to 1,000 members per agent The episode also spotlights new educational courses and reinforces the importance of local market expertise and year-round client engagement. Whether you're a new agent or an experienced pro, this episode is packed with tools and strategies to build loyalty and boost retention heading into AEP. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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2026 Medicare Preview with Josh Slattery
07/22/2025
2026 Medicare Preview with Josh Slattery
In this episode of The Broker Link, Josh Slattery dives into the 2026 Final Rule and its impact on the health insurance landscape. While this year’s changes are more modest compared to previous updates, several important developments were discussed: GLP-1 Coverage & Debit Card Rules: Proposed changes to expand GLP-1 drug coverage for obesity and revise flex debit card use were not included in the final rule. SSA Qualification Process: The process for Medicare Special Enrollment Periods is now more complex, requiring verification from past claims or providers. Part D Risk Adjustment: Updates were made to help stabilize the Part D market amid growing cost pressures. Medicaid Impacts: The “Big Beautiful Bill” introduced major changes, including work requirements and stricter eligibility limits for Medicaid beneficiaries. Medicare Advantage Update: Penetration rates have reached 53%, but 6% of enrollees faced plan terminations this year. Josh also shares insights on the current regulatory climate, market volatility, and what agents should watch for as policy changes continue to evolve. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Rethinking Benefits: The Rise of ICHRA and What It Means for Agents
07/08/2025
Rethinking Benefits: The Rise of ICHRA and What It Means for Agents
In this episode of the Broker Link, Mike Papuc and JR Hopkin from our Health team dive into the growing momentum behind ICHRA — the Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement — and how it’s reshaping the future of employer-sponsored benefits. With 175 million Americans currently covered through group plans and 25 million still uninsured, ICHRA presents a flexible, cost-controlled alternative that empowers employees to choose their own health insurance. Our speakers break down how ICHRA works, its potential to shift 10% of the uninsured into coverage over the next five years, and why agents should take notice. They also highlight the critical role of education, compliance, and working with TPAs to ensure smooth implementation. For brokers and agents, ICHRA represents a new, high-retention revenue stream with strong commission potential. Whether you're new to ICHRA or looking to expand your offerings, this episode lays out why now is the time to get involved. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Freedom and Financial Security: The Independence Life Insurance Brings
07/01/2025
Freedom and Financial Security: The Independence Life Insurance Brings
In this episode, Crystal Bustillos from The Brokerage Inc. dives into the critical role life insurance plays in achieving financial independence and long-term security. She explains how life insurance not only provides peace of mind by covering funeral costs and lost income, but also offers living benefits through permanent policies like Whole Life or Indexed Universal Life. These policies can build cash value—a flexible financial tool that can be used for emergencies, retirement income, or other major life expenses. Mike Papuc also shares details about an upcoming ACA agent training in Corpus Christi on July 10, encouraging agents to stay engaged and continue learning. She wraps by reminding agents to take full advantage of the resources offered by The Brokerage Inc., including past webinars, training materials, and marketing tools to better serve their clients and grow their business. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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2025 Marketplace Final Rule: What You Need to Know
06/26/2025
2025 Marketplace Final Rule: What You Need to Know
In this episode, we break down the CMS Final Rule for the 2025 Marketplace and what it means for agents, insurers, and consumers. Key highlights include: Past-due premium enforcement: Carriers may require payment of prior premiums before activating new coverage, with flexibility for state-specific rules. Standardized Open Enrollment: → 2026: Nov 1 – Jan 15 → 2027 and beyond: Federal deadline of Dec 15 Tighter eligibility verification: 75% of applications will be randomly selected for verification. DACA exclusion: DACA recipients will no longer be eligible for Marketplace coverage. Financial impact: CMS estimates $12 billion in savings and an average 5% premium reduction due to increased oversight and fraud prevention. This final rule is a major step toward greater compliance, reduced fraud, and a more stable Marketplace. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Non-Commissionable Plans: What's Going On?
06/24/2025
Non-Commissionable Plans: What's Going On?
In this episode, we dive into the growing trend of non-commissionable Medicare Advantage plans and what it means for agents and the industry. Josh Slattery, Executive VP of The Brokerage Inc. and a seasoned expert in the Medicare space, explains that carriers are labeling certain plans as non-commissionable primarily to curb financial losses, often driven by low profitability, plan redundancy, or rising costs. A major talking point is UnitedHealthcare’s decision to make 15% of its PPO portfolio non-commissionable, impacting over 100 plans nationwide. The episode also explores the financial strain caused by the V28 risk adjustment model, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and unfavorable post-COVID utilization trends. Despite these headwinds, agents are encouraged to: Stay informed on carrier changes Leverage technology to improve efficiency Prioritize client retention to build long-term value Consider cross-selling ancillary products to offset lost commissions The episode emphasizes that field agents remain critical in navigating local markets and client relationships, even amid shifting compensation structures. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Annuity Awareness Month: Securing a Lifetime of Income
06/17/2025
Annuity Awareness Month: Securing a Lifetime of Income
In this episode, Cheryl Chapman, Annuities Specialist with 19 years of experience, joins Sherry Kelson, Director of the Life Team at The Brokerage Inc., to break down what agents need to know about annuities. Cheryl walks through the key requirements for selling annuities, including: A life and health license State-specific certifications Anti-money laundering (AML) training Errors & omissions (E&O) coverage Product-specific training She explains the main types of annuities—fixed, indexed, and single premium income annuities (SPIAs)—and shares how each can serve clients' long-term goals like retirement, college funding, or guaranteed income. With current interest rates around 5.3%, annuities are becoming an attractive, low-risk option offering tax-deferred growth and portfolio diversification. Cheryl also notes that annuities typically issue within a week, and agents can reach out to her directly for guidance and support. You can reach Cheryl through The Brokerage Inc. website. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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The Business of Being Independent: Advice for Insurance Agents
06/10/2025
The Business of Being Independent: Advice for Insurance Agents
In this episode of The Broker Link, Mike Papuc and Trey Owens from the Health team at The Brokerage Inc., explore what it means to be truly independent as an insurance agent. They break down the importance of carefully reading and negotiating contracts, ensuring agents aren't locked into unfavorable terms that limit their growth. Trey shares why being a 1099 agent is essential for long-term success and business control, while Mike talks about the power of ongoing support through tools like Monday masterminds and personal outreach. If you're an agent looking to maintain independence, communicate effectively, and grow with confidence—this episode is for you. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Building a Holistic Financial Practice: Beyond Medicare and Life Insurance with Cory Procter
06/03/2025
Building a Holistic Financial Practice: Beyond Medicare and Life Insurance with Cory Procter
In this episode, Chris Newberry from The Brokerage joins Cory Procter, founder of Pro Capital, to explore what it means to take a truly holistic approach to financial practice. Chris emphasizes that advisors must go beyond selling just Medicare or life insurance, advocating for a broader suite of services that meet clients’ evolving financial needs. Cory shares his powerful personal journey from financial instability to building a career in wealth management, highlighting the value of long-term planning, managing through market volatility, and conducting regular financial reviews. He sheds light on common issues such as probate pitfalls and the importance of naming contingent beneficiaries—details that are often overlooked but critical to effective planning. Together, they stress the need for advisors to offer a diverse menu of financial services and to prioritize ongoing education for both themselves and their clients, to deliver real, lasting value. All the information you can need about Pro Capital can be found on Cory's website, . Or check out his podcast, The Pro Capital Show Wisdom & Wealth, on or . Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Decoding CMS: Legislative Insights from the FMO Summit with Mike Smith
05/20/2025
Decoding CMS: Legislative Insights from the FMO Summit with Mike Smith
In this special episode, Mike Smith of The Brokerage Inc. leads a timely and insightful panel discussion from the FMO Summit, joined by two distinguished guests: John Greene, Founder & Principal of Tri-Branch Resolution LLC, and Nick Uehlecke, Principal at Todd Strategy Group. Together, they unpack the latest legislative and regulatory developments surrounding the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Listeners will gain insider perspectives on key policy shifts, implications for FMOs and agents, and what to expect in the evolving healthcare landscape. With their deep experience in government affairs and healthcare strategy, Greene and Uehlecke shed light on how these changes might shape the future of Medicare marketing, compliance standards, and the overall regulatory environment. This episode is a must-listen for professionals navigating the complexities of healthcare legislation and those looking to stay ahead of CMS updates. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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From Onboarding to Earning: How TBI Empowers New Agents
05/13/2025
From Onboarding to Earning: How TBI Empowers New Agents
In this episode of The Broker Link, Trey Owens and Mike Papuc dive into platform updates designed to simplify and enhance the onboarding experience for insurance agents. They address a common industry problem: agents often feel forgotten after joining. TBI is tackling this through ongoing support tools, including brief, twice-weekly training sessions and a personalized white glove contracting service. The episode also discusses TBI's financial incentive called Brokerage Bucks, offering agents up to $450 per sale each month. Trey and Mike stress that true success comes not just from tools, but from ongoing coaching and mentorship — both of which are central to TBI’s agent-first philosophy. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Disability Insurance Awareness Month: Protecting Your Paycheck
05/06/2025
Disability Insurance Awareness Month: Protecting Your Paycheck
In this insightful episode, Crystal Bustillos joins the show to spotlight the often-overlooked topic of disability insurance, timed perfectly with Disability Insurance Awareness Month. Crystal emphasizes that a client’s income is their most valuable financial asset, and protecting it should be a top priority. She breaks down the differences between short-term and long-term disability insurance, helping agents understand when each type makes sense. Crystal also covers disability riders—customizable policy add-ons—and shares strategies for overcoming client objections, a common challenge in this area. To support agents, Crystal highlights tools available on The Brokerage Inc.'s Disability Center, including educational resources and marketing materials. She encourages proactive outreach through webinars and social media series to build awareness and trust with clients. A key takeaway: the best time to secure disability coverage is when clients are young and healthy, ensuring lower premiums and greater peace of mind. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Countdown to the Life Symposium: Insight, Strategy & Connection
04/22/2025
Countdown to the Life Symposium: Insight, Strategy & Connection
This episode of the Broker Link podcast discusses the upcoming Life Symposium on May 20 at the new Flower Mound office. Chris Newberry and Crystal Bustillos from the Life team highlight new features like the Vive platform for term insurance, which allows agents to run quotes and apply directly. The symposium will cover various life insurance products, including term, IUL, long-term care, final expense, and worksite products. It will feature presentations from carriers and other partners, with a fast-paced schedule and a working lunch. Registration is encouraged as space is limited. Additionally, monthly webinars and custom partner program calls are available for further training and support. To RSVP to the Life Symposium, click on this link: https://thebrokerageinc.com/training/life-symposium-dfw/ Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Marketing & Sales Strategies to Maximize Event Success
04/15/2025
Marketing & Sales Strategies to Maximize Event Success
Marketing & Sales Strategies to Maximize Event Success In this episode of Broker Link, Cynthia Rosales, Regional Sales Director at The Brokerage Inc., with 28 years of experience in Medicare sales, discussed the importance of differentiating between sales and educational events, emphasizing the need for reporting in sales events. She advised choosing venues where seniors gather, such as restaurants or senior centers, and securing dates consistently. Rosales recommended a budget under $15 per person and highlighted the significance of national marketing during AEP (August-December). She suggested scheduling events 21 days in advance and maintaining consistency for six months. Rosales also stressed the importance of being compliant, using the correct language, and being confident in product knowledge. With years of experience in the field, Cynthia offers practical, actionable tips to help agents and teams host successful, high-impact events. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! Linkedin: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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What Agents Really Want from an FMO
04/08/2025
What Agents Really Want from an FMO
What Agents Really Want from an FMO In this episode of Broker Link, Trey Owens from The Brokerage Inc. sits down with experienced agent Lewis to explore what truly matters to agents when choosing an FMO (Field Marketing Organization). Louis shares valuable insights from the field, warning agents to steer clear of FMOs offering “free leads”—often a red flag for low-quality support. Instead, he stresses the importance of partnering with an FMO that provides real value, including carrier connections, community involvement, and growth support. Trey highlights how The Brokerage Inc. delivers on these needs through: ✅ Recruitment assistance ✅ Financial marketing tools ✅ A powerful broker dashboard for training and tracking sales Both emphasize that consistent training and responsive support are key to helping agents succeed. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! Linkedin: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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The Role of Life Insurance in Legacy Planning
04/01/2025
The Role of Life Insurance in Legacy Planning
In this episode of Broker Link, Cristal Bustillos with The Brokerage Inc. Life team dives into the critical role of life insurance in legacy planning. She breaks down how it helps manage estate taxes, facilitates charitable giving, and ensures a smooth wealth transfer. Cristal also explains how life insurance provides liquidity for illiquid assets like family farms or businesses, helping families avoid financial strain. Plus, she highlights how it can bypass probate, saving time and legal costs. Crystal encourages agents to take action by attending our legacy planning workshops in April and starting meaningful conversations with clients about their future goals. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! Linkedin: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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Yunior Santana Joins The Brokerage Team
03/25/2025
Yunior Santana Joins The Brokerage Team
The Brokerage Inc. is so excited to announce Yunior Santana is joining the company as a new Regional Sales Director in Florida. Yunior is an experienced agent and agency owner in the Miami area and is a great addition to our sales team. Yunior takes over for Carl-Philippe Denis, who has been promoted to Senior National Sales Director. In this episode of The Broker Link, get to know Yunior and what he brings to the Brokerage team and the state of Florida. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, . Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! Linkedin: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website:
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