The Broker Link

The Brokerage Inc.
  • 5.0 (11)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Biweekly

The Broker Link empowers insurance agents to sell more, earn more and stay independent. Hosted by The Brokerage Inc.

  1. 1d ago

    The Annuity Opportunity: Helping Clients Create Lifetime Income

    The annuity market is booming, and the opportunity for agents is growing right alongside it. In this episode of The Broker Link, Chris Newberry sits down with Colby Cox to discuss the rapid growth of the annuity market, the important role these products can play in retirement planning, and how agents can incorporate annuities into their business. Chris and Colby highlight the growing need for reliable retirement income, particularly as fewer Americans have access to traditional pensions. They explain how annuities can provide lifetime income and offer tax advantages that may make them an attractive alternative to traditional savings vehicles such as bank CDs. The conversation breaks down the major types of annuities, including immediate and deferred annuities, as well as income and accumulation strategies. They also explore fixed and fixed index annuities and how each can serve different client needs depending on their retirement goals. The episode also introduces The Brokerage Inc.'s expanded in-house annuity support, including new tools, resources, and training designed to make the annuity process easier for agents. With additional support available throughout the process, agents can confidently expand their product offerings while helping clients build more secure retirement strategies. Whether you're new to annuities or looking to grow your existing business, this episode provides a practical look at why annuities are becoming an increasingly important part of the retirement conversation—and the opportunity they represent for agents. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  2. Aug 11

    AI for Insurance Agents: Tools to Grow Your Business Smarter

    In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, The Brokerage Inc. President Emeritus Mike Smith explores how artificial intelligence is helping insurance agents become more efficient, strengthen client relationships, and grow their businesses. Mike introduces three AI-powered platforms designed to support agents at every stage of the client journey. AgentReview.net helps agents build credibility through verified online reviews; Medicare Mike serves as a digital AI assistant that educates Medicare prospects and answers common questions; and Aiden RX simplifies the annual prescription drug plan review process by automating much of the work involved in renewals. Throughout the episode, Mike emphasizes that AI isn't replacing agents—it's empowering them. By automating routine tasks and providing smarter ways to engage clients, these tools allow agents to spend more time building relationships, delivering personalized guidance, and growing their businesses. Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or looking for practical ways to integrate it into your agency, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology can improve efficiency, support compliance, and help you stay ahead in an evolving insurance industry. Mike also mentioned a few links.   For Agent Review: https://agentreview.net/a/mike-smith#add-review To reach out to Mike:  mike at thebrokerageinc.com Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  3. Aug 4

    2027 AEP Carrier Rollouts: What Agents Need to Know | Part 1 - HealthSpring & Aetna

    Chapters: :00     - 17:00    - 2027 AEP Overview 17:00 - 41:00    - HealthSpring 41:00- 1:05:00 - Aetna   The 2027 AEP season is here, and with it comes significant changes that every Medicare agent needs to understand. In the first episode of a special two-part Carrier Rollout Series, co-hosts Josh Slattery and David Ireland break down the latest carrier announcements, industry trends, and regulatory updates shaping the upcoming Annual Enrollment Period. The discussion begins with the continued impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on the Medicare Advantage market. As plan revenues struggle to keep pace with rising healthcare costs, carriers are making strategic adjustments to benefits, networks, and product offerings. Josh and David explain what these market pressures mean for agents and how they may influence client conversations during AEP. The episode also explores key carrier updates, including HealthSpring's transition to the HCSC brand and its continued focus on HMO products and Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) expansion. The hosts discuss Aetna's strategy centered on network efficiency and product enhancements, noting that approximately 60% of members are expected to experience stable or improved benefits despite ongoing market challenges. Beyond carrier-specific news, the conversation covers important regulatory updates, changes to the SSBCI qualification process, and why ancillary products will continue to play a vital role in helping clients address coverage gaps. Josh and David also preview additional carrier releases, market expansions, and emerging opportunities that agents should be watching as the rollout season continues. Whether you're preparing for your first client appointment or refining your AEP strategy, this episode provides the insights needed to stay informed and confident heading into the 2027 selling season. Be sure to tune in for Part 2, coming later this August, as Josh and David continue their analysis of the latest carrier rollouts and what they mean for your business. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  4. Jul 28

    NCD's Approach to Better Benefits and Better Member Experiences

    Ancillary benefits are no longer just an add-on—they're an essential part of helping clients build comprehensive health coverage. In this episode of The Broker Link, host Mike Papuc welcomes Jamison Keller, Chief Commercial Officer at NCD, to discuss how ancillary products are improving customer experiences while creating new opportunities for insurance agents. Jamison shares NCD's mission of improving lives through better health and exceptional service, offering a portfolio of products that includes dental, vision, accident medical expense plans, and an upcoming hospital indemnity product. He explains how these solutions complement major medical coverage by helping clients manage out-of-pocket costs while gaining access to valuable provider network discounts. The conversation also explores why agents should make ancillary products part of every client conversation. Jamison highlights the importance of cross-selling dental and vision coverage—not only because they help protect physical and mental health, but because they strengthen client relationships and increase long-term retention. You'll also get an inside look at NCD's commitment to customer service, including its U.S.-based member care team, rapid response times, and highly rated member experience. Learn more about NCD online at https://www.ncd.com  Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. and how to get contracted with NCD by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  5. Jul 21

    Beyond ACA & Medicare: Why Ancillary Products Matter with Manhattan Life

    In this episode of The Broker Link, host Mike Papuc, National Health Sales Director at The Brokerage Inc., welcomes Darcy Soltys, Regional Vice President, and Jason Yoo, Vice President of Individual Sales at Manhattan Life, for a conversation about the evolving health insurance landscape and why ancillary products are becoming more important than ever. As ACA and Medicare continue to evolve, the guests explain why agents should look beyond major medical plans and consider offering supplemental solutions that help fill coverage gaps. They highlight Manhattan Life's Affordable Choice plan, which provides valuable first-dollar benefits with no deductible and no copay, giving clients additional financial protection while creating new opportunities for agents. Throughout the episode, Mike, Darcy, and Jason emphasize the importance of product diversification. By bundling ancillary products with ACA or Medicare plans, agents can provide more comprehensive solutions that better meet their clients' needs while strengthening retention and growing their business. The conversation also explores how Manhattan Life's streamlined e-app simplifies the enrollment process, making it easier for agents to quote, enroll, and serve clients efficiently. Whether you're looking to expand your product portfolio, increase client value, or stay ahead in today's evolving healthcare market, this episode offers practical strategies to build stronger client relationships through ancillary coverage. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  6. Jul 14

    Protecting the Paycheck: Why Disability Insurance Matters

    What happens if your client can't work? While many clients focus on protecting their families with life insurance or planning for long-term care later in life, one of their greatest financial assets—their paycheck—is often left unprotected. In this mini-episode of The Broker Link, hosts Cristal Bustillos and Chris Newberry explore why disability insurance is an essential part of a well-rounded financial protection strategy. They explain how disability insurance provides income replacement during a client's working years, helping protect their lifestyle and financial obligations if illness or injury prevents them from earning a living. Cristal and Chris walk listeners through the disability insurance process, including medical underwriting, income verification, and the structure of benefits. They also discuss how different carriers specialize in serving a wide range of occupations, from white-collar professionals and business owners to blue-collar and skilled trade workers, making disability insurance a solution for far more clients than many agents realize. The conversation also highlights how The Brokerage's Life Department makes it easy for producers to enter the disability insurance market through its turnkey DI Partners program. With access to experienced specialists, product expertise, and dedicated support, agents can confidently introduce disability insurance into client conversations without having to become experts overnight. Beyond the client benefits, Cristal and Chris discuss why disability insurance represents a significant business opportunity for producers. In addition to helping clients protect their most valuable asset—their income—disability insurance can generate meaningful commissions and long-term renewal income, creating lasting value for both clients and agents. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  7. Jul 7

    ICHRAs Are Here: Why Every Agent Needs to Pay Attention

    Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs) are quickly becoming one of the biggest opportunities in employee benefits, and on this episode of The Broker Link, Mike Papuc sits down with John Ross Hopkin to discuss why brokers should be paying attention. The conversation explores how ICHRAs are transforming the way employers offer health benefits by providing an alternative to traditional group health insurance. With affordability continuing to challenge both businesses and employees, ICHRAs are giving employers greater flexibility while helping control healthcare costs. Mike and John Ross highlight the rapid growth of ICHRAs in 2026, noting that more than half of brokers are now utilizing this strategy. They also discuss how major employers, including Amazon and Southwest Airlines, have adopted ICHRAs as part of their employee benefits approach, signaling a significant shift in the marketplace. The episode emphasizes the importance of broker education, explaining how understanding ICHRAs can open new opportunities for business growth and client retention. They also break down the critical role third-party administrators (TPAs), such as Ameriflex and Predictable Benefits, play in helping employers successfully implement these plans. Whether you're looking to help employers reduce costs, retain employees, or expand your own business, this episode provides valuable insights into one of the fastest-growing segments of the health insurance industry. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

  8. Jun 30

    Becoming Indispensable: Building Strong Provider Relationships

    In this episode of The Broker Link, host Danielle Tworek sits down with Provider Relations expert Aleshia Holliday to discuss what it takes for agents to become truly indispensable to their provider partners. Aleshia shares valuable insights into the day-to-day challenges healthcare providers face, from staffing shortages and administrative burdens to increasingly complex reimbursement processes. While providers are focused on delivering quality patient care, many are stretched thin managing operational demands, creating opportunities for agents to step in and provide meaningful support. Throughout the conversation, Aleshia emphasizes that successful provider relations are built on trust, consistency, and rapport. Agents who take the time to understand a provider's needs, address front desk concerns, communicate clearly, and follow through on commitments quickly differentiate themselves from the competition. She explains that being responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with can make an agent an invaluable resource for both providers and their staff. The discussion also explores practical ways agents can add value beyond enrollment support, including assisting with patient education, resolving common issues, and providing marketing resources that strengthen provider visibility in the community. By focusing on solutions and becoming a reliable partner, agents can build stronger relationships that benefit providers, clients, and their own business growth. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes are available every Tuesday. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

The Broker Link empowers insurance agents to sell more, earn more and stay independent. Hosted by The Brokerage Inc.

Information

  • Creator
    The Brokerage Inc.
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Broker Link

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