The Broker Link

On this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, Cristal Bustillos and Chris Newberry from the life department break down the growing opportunity around life settlements and how agents can use them to better serve clients. The discussion explains that a life settlement allows a client to sell an unwanted or unaffordable life insurance policy on the secondary market. In return, the client receives compensation and no longer has to pay ongoing premiums. However, ownership of the policy and the death benefit transfer to the buyer. Cristal and Chris highlight situations where life settlements can be especially valuable, including: Business-owned policies Key person coverage Clients with non-liquid assets who need quick access to cash Policies that are no longer needed or affordable They also walk through how the process works at TBI, starting with a qualifying worksheet to help determine whether a policy may have value. From there, medical records are reviewed to establish life expectancy, and settlement brokers negotiate offers on the client's behalf. The episode also emphasizes how agents can position life settlements as another strategic planning tool for clients, while TBI provides guidance, support, and free resources throughout the process. 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/

In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, Mike Smith and Josh Slattery break down the key updates from the 2027 CMS Medicare Final Rule and what it means for agent partners. One of the biggest headlines is the rate increase for Medicare Advantage plans, rising from 0.9% to 2.48%, which injects approximately $13 billion into the system. While this funding boost is significant, it will likely influence product design, including potential reductions in certain non-essential supplemental benefits. The discussion also highlights the codification of the Inflation Reduction Act provision that caps out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,100, providing greater financial protection for beneficiaries. From a compliance standpoint, several important changes are addressed. The removal of the 48-hour waiting period for Scope of Appointment and the reduction of call recording retention requirements from 10 years to 6 years are expected to streamline agent workflows while maintaining regulatory standards. The episode also explores the evolving focus of Star Ratings, with a shift toward clinical outcomes and away from administrative measures — signaling a broader move toward quality of care and patient results. The Brokerage Inc. will continue to keep you informed about CMS changes for 2027. Visit our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com to learn more. 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/

In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, Mike Papuc and Danielle Tworek sit down with Luis Moreno, owner of Simply Health Insurance, to discuss his 25-year journey in the insurance industry. Luis shares how he first obtained his life and health insurance license in 1999 while transitioning from a career in teaching. Over the years, he built experience across multiple areas of the industry, including time in the military and working with Mutual of Omaha before launching his own Farmers Insurance agency in 2001. As the market evolved, Luis expanded his business to include Affordable Care Act marketplace plans and Medicare in 2014, helping clients access comprehensive health coverage while continuing to grow his agency. Luis also discusses his passion for mentoring new agents. Through his YouTube channel and the Skool platform, he provides training and support to help agents build confidence and develop their businesses. His advice for new agents is simple: get contracted now, invest in training, and offer a full range of insurance solutions so clients can rely on you as a trusted advisor. 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/

In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, Chris Newberry and Cristal Bustillos break down essential business insurance strategies every advisor should understand — and every business owner should implement. The conversation centers on key person insurance and buy-sell agreements, two critical tools for protecting business continuity. Key person insurance provides financial stability to a company if a vital employee or owner passes away, helping offset lost revenue and operational disruption. Buy-sell agreements, when properly funded with life insurance, ensure smooth ownership transitions and protect both partners and families from financial uncertainty. Chris and Cristal emphasize the importance of proactive planning and discuss how complementary business valuations help owners understand their true exposure and funding needs. They also explore worksite marketing opportunities, available to businesses with as few as 15 employees. With guaranteed issue options and portable coverage, these policies offer meaningful benefits to employees and their families — while creating strong revenue opportunities for agents. Additionally, the episode covers disability insurance, including income protection and business overhead expense coverage — critical safeguards that protect both personal paychecks and company operations. Whether you're advising business owners or looking to grow your book of business, this episode highlights why business insurance planning is not only essential for clients, but also a highly profitable line of coverage 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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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, 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/

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, 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/

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, 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/

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, 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/

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, 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/