The Broker Link

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

  1. 3D AGO

    Insure Your Love Month: Products That Matter Most

    In this episode of The Broker Link, Crystal Bustillos and Chris Newberry explore a variety of insurance solutions under the theme "Insure Your Love Month," focusing on products that help protect families, legacies, and financial security. They begin with final expense insurance, highlighting its simplicity and accessibility. These policies help cover funeral costs and outstanding debts, with coverage options up to $50,000 for simplified issue and $25,000 for guaranteed issue, making them an approachable solution for many clients. The conversation also introduces the Gerber Children's Grow-Up Plan, which allows families to secure life insurance early, with the face amount doubling at age 18 without a premium increase—a long-term planning tool that offers lasting value. Crystal and Chris discuss the importance of long-term care insurance, whether as a standalone policy or an add-on, emphasizing the high likelihood of future care needs and the financial strain it can place on families. Additional products covered include term life, whole life, IUL, universal life, annuities, disability insurance, and life settlements, giving agents a broad perspective on how to tailor coverage to meet clients' evolving needs. 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/

    11 min

  2. FEB 3

    Ready to Grow? How Agents Can Build Full-Service Agencies

    In this episode of The Broker Link, David Ireland and Scott Christie share valuable insights on how Medicare-focused agents can successfully grow their businesses into full-service agencies. The discussion explores two primary growth models. The traditional independent agent model focuses on building a team by hiring back-office support and recruiting independent agents to expand production. The Licensed Agent of Agency (LOA) model takes a different approach by hiring employees who work under the agency while earning a base salary combined with commission opportunities. David and Scott emphasize the importance of maintaining ownership and control of client relationships while implementing technology solutions to effectively manage client data and communication. They also highlight the opportunity for agents to strengthen their business by cross-selling additional products such as hospital indemnity, long-term care, and other supplemental coverage options. The conversation reinforces the importance of establishing a strong business foundation, including forming an LLC and creating clear operational structures. Agents are encouraged to leverage brokerage partnerships for resources, training, and operational support to accelerate growth and long-term success. This episode provides practical guidance for agents looking to transition from individual production to building scalable, sustainable agencies. 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/

    39 min

  3. JAN 20

    Building Momentum: Life Sales Wins in 2025 and What's Ahead for 2026

    In this episode of The Broker Link, Chris Newberry is joined by Sherry Kelson and Cristal Bustillos to recap a standout year for the Life team and preview what's coming next. The conversation highlights 2025 as a milestone year—ranking as the second-best year in Life sales and the best year ever for Final Expense and Annuities. The team credits this success to agent engagement, diversification, and a strong focus on education and support. Looking ahead to 2026, several exciting initiatives are on the horizon. The team reintroduces the Life Bonus Program, designed to reward agents based on production, along with Brokerage Bucks, which allows agents to earn credits simply by submitting business. They also discuss the rollout of the Firelight platform, which will streamline quoting and submissions to improve efficiency and ease of use. Ongoing education remains a top priority, with plans for monthly webinars, personalized training sessions, and the introduction of a customized life insurance menu to better support agents and their clients. The episode also reinforces the importance of diversification, encouraging agents to expand into annuities, long-term care, and other complementary products. This episode is a must-listen for agents looking to build on 2025's momentum and position themselves for continued growth in 2026. 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/

    21 min

  4. JAN 13

    UnitedHealthcare in the ACA Market: Data, Value-Based Care, and What Agents Need to Know

    In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, Mike Papuc and Sonia Porras take a deep dive into UnitedHealthcare's growing role in the ACA market and what it means for agents and consumers. As a top-five Fortune 500 company, UHC continues to expand its footprint across multiple product lines, leveraging robust data and analytics to design plans that better meet member needs. The conversation highlights how UHC uses data to inform healthcare delivery while addressing social determinants of health, helping improve access, outcomes, and long-term member satisfaction. Mike and Sonia also discuss the potential impact of expiring enhanced premium tax credits, noting how consumer behavior may shift from Silver plans toward Bronze or Gold options as affordability becomes a key factor. A key focus of the episode is UHC's value-based care partnership with Sanitas in the San Antonio market, which brings primary care, preventive services, and specialty care together under one roof for a more integrated member experience. The episode wraps with encouragement for agents to diversify their portfolios, stay informed during market uncertainty, and continue delivering exceptional service to clients navigating ACA decisions. 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/

    26 min

  5. JAN 6

    Understanding Medicare OEP: Rules, Timing, and Opportunities for Agents

    In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, the focus is on the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which runs from January 1 through March 31. Josh Slattery breaks down what OEP means for both beneficiaries and agents, emphasizing that this window allows Medicare Advantage members to make a one-time plan change if their current coverage no longer meets their needs. The discussion covers key effective dates—and clarifies important marketing and compliance guidelines. While agents cannot actively urge beneficiaries to enroll during OEP, general marketing and education remain permitted. Josh also highlights the importance of retail presence and community outreach, particularly for members experiencing buyer's remorse after AEP. He provides historical context on OEP, noting its reintroduction in 2019, and clarifies that standalone Part D plans are not included during this period. This episode equips agents with the knowledge they need to stay compliant, support their clients effectively, and identify meaningful opportunities during OEP. 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/

    12 min

  6. 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, 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/

    30 min

  7. 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, 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 min

  8. 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, 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/

    48 min
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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