Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff discuss the importance of carefully choosing which trainings to attend as insurance professionals. They emphasize the need to prioritize trainings that are relevant to an agent's current business needs and future goals, and stress the importance of balancing attendance with actual business productivity. They also share insights on the challenges of planning and attending conferences, and touch on the potential for hosting a cruise conference as a fun and educational event for their listeners. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the value of meaningful networking opportunities and practical takeaways from industry events.

In this insightful episode of Insurance Business Babes, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive deep into the crucial aspect of protecting and managing your business in the insurance industry. They share personal strategies on segregating emails for clients and carriers, handling overwhelming amounts of insurance-related spam, and employing technology such as CRMs while ensuring HIPAA compliance through Business Associate Agreements. Kathe reflects on her investigation of CRM options in light of rising costs and HIPAA considerations, expressing the importance of data ownership and the ability to export data securely. Joanna relays her experiences with VA training, stressing the significance of a business owner mentality over an employee mindset and the foresight needed for business growth, even sharing anecdotes from her recent house purchase. Lastly, the hosts commiserate over unwanted solicitations in the form of calls and texts, discussing tactics for maintaining clear and effective communication channels in their business operations.

In this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into the complexities of Medicaid waivers, vital programs that provide medical and financial assistance to individuals who don't meet traditional Medicaid requirements due to their income but who face severe medical challenges such as disabilities and chronic conditions. They illuminate community-based care options, highlight the significant cost of prescription medications, and discuss various patient assistance programs, including a database developed by pharmacist Norma Johnson. The hosts also touch upon strategies for veterans dealing with trauma and the importance of utilizing resources like benefitscheckup.org to aid aging clients. The focus of the episode is on the tangible ways insurance professionals can support their clients, from navigating the Katie Beckett waiver for disabled children to understanding the nuances of programs like PACE and VA aid and attendance benefits, to other programs most agents never think of.

We fixed the audio issue! In this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff discuss a controversial subject among insurance agents. They talk about the reasons why hospital and healthcare workers dislike Medicare Advantage Plans, delving into specific issues such as prior authorizations, network restrictions, and reimbursement rates that contribute to the discontent. The conversation also highlights real-life examples and emphasizes the need for insurance agents to be well-informed so they can provide valuable guidance to their clients AND the healthcare workers who can refer.

In this episode of "Insurance Business Babes" Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive into the world of tech tools that can revolutionize insurance businesses. They explore the DFY platform's automated features, emphasize the importance of owning customer data outside of Facebook, and discuss various CRM options like Agency Block and Medicare Pro, including HIPAA compliance and cost considerations. Kathe and Joanna also share their experience with different VoIP systems, video recording tools, and programs like Canva and Stencil for creating professional content. They highlight the efficiency of TypeDesk in managing repetitive communications and the innovative Contact Wearable bracelet for networking. Furthermore, they talk about the nuances of e-mail marketing with SendFox and Constant Contact, and how tools like Zapier can automate client interactions. Throughout, they remind listeners of affiliate opportunities that support the podcast without extra cost, posting to show notes for further details on the programs covered.

In this informative episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into the essential next steps for new insurance agents fresh from passing their exams. They provide practical advice on establishing a solid business foundation, including setting up an LLC, creating a professional online presence, and engaging in strategic networking with potential clients and referral partners. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding contractual nuances with FMOs, exploring initial insurance offerings like dental and vision, and preparing for a successful venture into the industry. The hosts share personal anecdotes and expert insights into the significance of building strong relationships, the nuances of agent release policies, and efficient financial management to help new agents thrive in their burgeoning careers.

In this episode of Insurance Business Babes, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive into the world of virtual co-working and the significance of accountability, especially for entrepreneurs. They share personal anecdotes about maintaining productivity through structured schedules and tidy workspaces while addressing the challenges of isolation when working from home. The discussion explores various platforms like Focusmate, Focus 101, and Cofocus, each offering different features such as the Pomodoro technique sessions, group rooms with ambient sounds, and focus sessions. Joanna details her preparation for an upcoming presentation and signs up with the Focus 101 program, including the importance of adhering to session rules for effectiveness. The episode balances the benefits of virtual co-working spaces with concerns about privacy, safety, and the social aspect of remote work, concluding with insights into optimizing such resources for business success and professional growth.

In this insightful episode of Insurance Business Babes, Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff tackle the timely and critical issue of what agents can do if their Field Marketing Organization (FMO) is eliminated. They stress the importance of having a backup plan, which includes learning how to manage their own client data using affordable and HIPAA-compliant Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools like Less Annoying CRM and HubSpot. The hosts discuss the potential challenges of transferring and owning data, the necessity of maintaining direct relationships with lead vendors, and the significant focus on compliance - particularly when using carrier logos and in the recording of calls. Joanna emphasizes the value of her trainings for her downlines and the need for agents to become less reliant on IMOs for technology. They express concerns over the government's stance on the role of agents in the Medicare market, suggesting that there is a possibility agents could be marginalized, and underline the importance of being versatile with technology and being able to use paper applications in challenging situations. Agents are encouraged to own their data and be prepared for changes in the industry, including a shift away from traditional IMO structures.

In the 'All About Conferences' episode of 'Insurance Business Babes,' hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff discuss various facets of attending and maximizing the benefits of industry conferences. They talk about their strategies for effective networking, the significance of arriving early to conferences for relationship-building and handling jet lag, and share anecdotes from past events. They delve into the importance of having comprehensive insurance policies, including health, disability, dental, vision, and life insurance, with a special focus on Medicare Advantage clients. The hosts also contemplate the unique idea of hosting a conference on a cruise, exploring the logistical and educational aspects, and stress the importance of community and learning among agents in the insurance industry. To wrap up, they encourage listeners to share their conference experiences and hint at the potential discussion of these stories in a future episode.

Joanna breaks down Veterans benefits and how that effects Medicare for our listeners. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of healthcare services, but it's important to understand that the level of coverage varies based on priority levels. The highest priority is given to veterans who are 50% or more disabled, granting them free healthcare and prescriptions from the VA. Veterans at lower priority levels may have copayments for their care. Unfortunately, there are common misconceptions surrounding VA benefits. It is essential to debunk these myths to have a clear understanding of the available options. Contrary to popular belief, not all veterans receive free VA healthcare and prescriptions. Additionally, veterans are not limited to Medicare Advantage (MA) plans without drug coverage. Various options, such as MA, Medigap, and standalone drug plans, can all work in conjunction with VA benefits without any issues.

Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff continue their discussion from last week on getting leads. They start the discussion with Facebook groups. Joanna discusses the crucial role of being a resource for customers needing diabetic supplies and the value of customer referrals. They delve into the importance of creating personal networks for referrals, even with competitors, to ensure clients have access to comprehensive services. The hosts also emphasize the significance of partnering with medical professionals and leveraging strategic partnerships for mutual referrals. With invaluable networking tips and real-life experiences, this episode is packed with advice to help you grow your insurance business. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and tune in for all the insight you need to succeed in the insurance industry.

Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff share their insights on building leads and finding new clients in the insurance industry. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Local Events and Grassroots Methods: Joanna Wyckoff believes in establishing herself as a local agent and prioritizing her territory before venturing into other locations. She emphasizes the effectiveness of hosting local events, such as Thanksgiving senior center events, and utilizing branded giveaways to build personal branding and attract clients in the community. 2️⃣ Purchasing Reputable Leads: Joanna also discusses the advantages of purchasing leads from reputable vendors, including options such as direct mail and Facebook leads. Live transfers, which offer preset appointments with potential clients who have expressed interest in Medicare services, are also highlighted as a valuable strategy. 3️⃣ Personalized Marketing: Kathe Kline shares her experiences with sending handwritten birthday cards to individuals turning 65 as a way to gain new clients. The personalized nature of birthday cards and the high open rate they receive make them a slow but impactful way to connect with potential clients. Tune in to the full episode for more valuable insights on lead generation in the insurance industry. 🌟🎙️

In this episode, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive into the complex world of Medicare Advantage plans and prescription formularies. They discuss the challenges and unfairness that beneficiaries face, the intricacies of part B drugs, and the impact of potential issues with Medicare Advantage plans. Listen in as they share personal experiences, offer valuable insights into the industry, and highlight the importance of understanding clients' specific health needs when it comes to complicated Medicare planning. Stay tuned for this insightful and informative episode!

LOAs (Licensed Only Agents) take center stage as hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff explore the challenges, complexities, and opportunities of working with LOAs in the insurance industry. From the nuances of payroll management, handling legal aspects, and the importance of asset protection, to personal stories of adaptation and resilience in the face of health challenges, this episode is a rich tapestry of insights and experiences. Join us as we navigate the world of insurance and business with a supportive and empowering approach, sharing our journey and expertise to help others thrive in the Medicare business.

In today's episode, we delve into the crucial process of setting up an LLC for your insurance business. Cohost Joanna Wyckoff shares her first-hand experience of establishing her own agency, Top Flight Insurance, and the essential steps she took to form an LLC. From obtaining name approval to acquiring an EIN number and navigating state agency licenses, Joanna details the process in a quick and easy manner, emphasizing significant cost savings by handling the process herself. We also explore the benefits of having separate LLCs for each agent and the tax advantages it offers. Plus, we discuss retirement savings options for self-employed individuals and the insights into managing multiple LLCs. So, if you're ready to level up your insurance business with the power of an LLC, then stay tuned for all the expert tips and valuable insights coming your way.

In this episode, Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline dive into the world of hiring an executive assistant. Joanna discusses her recent experience in hiring an assistant and shares valuable insights on the importance of finding the right fit. The hosts also explore the use of tools and techniques to enhance productivity, including the benefits of hiring a virtual assistant and utilizing online scheduling systems. They also touch on the challenges of managing remote work and the importance of delegating administrative tasks. Join us as we uncover the significant impact an executive assistant can have on business efficiency and personal well-being.

In this episode, we continue the riveting conversation with Christian Brindle, as he shares a personal story about overcoming reluctance to sell dental, vision, and hearing plans, leading to remarkable sales growth. Kathe shares insights on leveraging compliance-approved videos to automate cross-selling and Joanna dives into the ease of getting out of the hustle stage by selling ACA plans. We also explore the importance of educating clients on insurance agent compensation and the adoption of automation and email drip marketing to enhance client interactions. We reflect on our personal experiences and failures, underscoring the necessity of communicating all available options to clients. From discussing the upcoming 7 Figure Medicare Agent Summit to exchanging tips for business growth and client engagement, this episode is packed with valuable advice for insurance professionals. Tune in as we delve into topics ranging from advertising and lead spending to diversifying business across different insurance sectors.

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Christian Brindle, founder of Christian Brindle Insurance Services and the man behind a thriving Medicare Agent Facebook group. Christian joins our hosts, Kathe Kline and Joanna, to delve into the nitty-gritty of the Medicare business. From discussing the complexities of the insurance market to navigating the stages of growth in a Medicare business, Christian shares invaluable insights and strategies. Get ready to dive into the world of insurance sales, business growth, and the power of automation as you tune in to this insightful episode. Christian Brindle is a passionate and dedicated insurance professional based in Salt Lake City, Utah. He is the founder of the 7 Figure Medicare Agent Facebook group and runs his own YouTube channel where he shares valuable insights and advice about the insurance industry. Christian Brindle is the owner of Christian Brindle Insurance Services, where he works tirelessly to provide top-notch insurance services to his clients. With a strong commitment to his work, Christian Brindle is always eager to share his knowledge and expertise in the field of insurance business.

In this episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, Kathe and Joanna discuss the importance of prioritizing health, both physically and mentally, as insurance agents. They start by talking about how it's all too common for agents to overwork themselves, getting little sleep and not taking proper breaks. Joanna shares how she used to work 18 hour days and gained 60 pounds, which took a toll on her health. Both agree it's crucial to listen to your body and not neglect self-care. Joanna details how she recently hired a virtual assistant, Emma, to help handle tasks like answering phones and scheduling appointments. This has helped reduce stress immensely. Kathe is proud of Joanna for learning to delegate work. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries and not being available 24/7. Kathy notes she only checks Facebook a couple times a day and doesn't let it interfere with her personal life. Joanna talks about past issues getting banned from Facebook for 90 days due to posts about her other business. This showed her risk of relying too heavily on one platform. The conversation wraps up with Joanna emphasizing the need to take breaks, spend time outside, and take care of physical and mental wellbeing to have long-term success and avoid health issues in this career. Overall, a thoughtful discussion on maintaining balance.

In this episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive into the topic of "giving up" certain things in order to grow your business. They emphasize that this is not about giving up in a negative way, but rather about letting go of clients, tasks, or habits that are not serving you well. Kathe shares a personal story about how she decided to give up a difficult client as a financial advisor. This client was berating her assistant, and Kathe realized that continuing to work with them was not a good use of her time. This example highlights the importance of recognizing when certain clients are not providing enough value in return for the time and effort invested. Joanna agrees and expands on this idea by discussing her own experience with releasing over 100 agents last year. These agents were causing issues and taking up too much of her time. However, she was able to rebuild her downline to over 200 agents who respect her time more. This demonstrates the positive impact of cutting ties with clients or agents who are not contributing to the growth and success of your business. The hosts also delve into the changing expectations of clients in today's constantly connected world. They talk about the entitlement some clients feel to immediate responses at all hours due to cell phone connectivity. To maintain a healthy work-life balance, both Kathe and Joanna have made the decision to cut off work communication after hours. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal time. Additionally, they discuss the need for agents to self-educate more through recorded trainings, rather than constantly relying on personal assistance. Kathe suggests Joanna set up a paid service, such as Clarity, to charge agents for assistance outside of her core downline. This would help Joanna better value her time and ensure that agents appreciate the value of personal assistance. Finally, they touch on the idea of dropping unprofitable tasks. Joanna considers obtaining an LOA to help with enrollments for drug plan clients affected by rate increases. This shows the importance of reassessing tasks and focusing on those that contribute to the growth and profitability of the business. In conclusion, Kathe and Joanna encourage listeners to identify what they need to "give up" or let go of in order to optimize their business and better value their own time. They emphasize that cutting unnecessary tasks and clients is essential for growth and success.

Welcome back to Insurance Business Babes, where we dive into the world of insurance and share our experiences as industry professionals. In today's episode, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff take a deep dive into the intricacies of insurance coverage, with a focus on Medicare and Medigap plans. They start by recounting a situation where a client received a letter stating that her doctor's office would no longer accept her Medigap plan, only to discover it was an error on the doctor's office's part. This highlights the importance of interpreting insurance letters and helping clients understand their benefits. Throughout the episode, Kathe and Joanna touch on various topics, such as the difference between Medicare and Medicaid, the significance of having the right insurance coverage for medical complications like amputations, and the challenges faced by agents in a heavily regulated industry. They also discuss the controversial issue of recording phone calls for private agents and question the discrepancies between government entities and private agents when it comes to storing these recordings. The hosts share their own personal experiences and frustrations, shedding light on the importance of educating clients on effective communication with insurance companies and the different types of plans available, like Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans. Additionally, they raise concerns about Medicare Supplement Select plans acting like HMOs within the Medigap system and the potential risks associated with disputes between hospitals and insurance companies. Tune in as Kathe and Joanna share their insights, frustrations, and experiences, providing valuable information for both agents and consumers in the ever-evolving world of insurance. Don't miss out on this informative episode of Insurance Business Babes.

In today's episode, your hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff start the conversation about Short Term Care and then have a captivating discussion about the dark side of FMOs that want agents to be dependent on them. They explore the importance of agents taking ownership of their tools, such as call recording, CRM, and websites, and question why some agents choose carrier business cards over personal branding. Join them as they share their own personal branding stories and discuss the power of branding oneself instead of relying solely on the upline or company names. They also uncover the deceptive practices in the insurance industry, including recent cases of misleading commercials for Medicare plans and the controversial world of short term health plans. As always, your hosts offer their expert advice and reveal their own preferred call recording services and strategies for success in the insurance business. So, grab your headphones and get ready for another eye-opening episode of Insurance Business Babes. Let's dive in!

Today we dive into the world of insurance and share our experiences, successes, and struggles in growing our own businesses. In this episode, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff discuss various topics that are impacting the insurance industry today. They express their frustrations with the new regulations regarding plan representation and the challenges it poses for agents operating in multiple states and counties. The hosts also address the issues surrounding power of attorney and the need for better protections for seniors with cognitive impairments. Additionally, they touch upon the proliferation of Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) and the potential abuse of these opportunities. Tune in for a passionate conversation filled with insights and ideas, as well as a thoughtful poem about the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). Stay tuned, and let's get busy!

In today's episode, Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive into the exciting world of insurance agent marketing. They explore how compliance rules have changed the game, specifically when it comes to Medicare marketing. Join them as they discuss the frustrations and challenges of these new rules and share their thoughts on how they should be applied. Our hosts also explore the power of networking and forming partnerships, highlighting the importance of building relationships with carrier reps and attending various events. They reveal their own strategies for generating leads and referrals, from leveraging referral networks to co-marketing opportunities. Plus, Joanna offers insights into her workshops on Social Security and prescription assistance, sharing her expertise and discussing the value of charging for these valuable sessions. As always, they tackle important topics like the shift towards social media marketing, the enduring human touch in the insurance industry, and the future of insurance agents. Stay tuned, because this episode is packed with marketing gold for all you insurance business babes out there!

In this episode, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff have a lively conversation about various topics in the insurance industry. They discuss the challenges of dealing with spam emails and social media sales pitches, the importance of personalizing sales approaches, and the risks of relying too heavily on carriers for client communication. Kathe also shares her experience with setting up a directory and the benefits of having high-quality leads. Joanna talks about the pitfalls of building a downline and the need for balance between agent and consumer-focused materials. Additionally, they touch on the advantages of using virtual assistants and the power of automation in streamlining business processes. If you're interested in learning more about these topics or want them to dive deeper into a specific subject, stay tuned to this episode of Insurance Business Babes!

Today's episode was supposed to be episode 10 but we are releasing it early due to the impact on independent agents business. Listen now to find out how the new proposed CMS regulations can hurt independent agents and what to do about it. We discuss the following key items: 1. Government regulation impact on agents 2. CRM system challenges and postcard strategy 3. Client medication costs and plan recommendations 4. Voice signatures and episode relevance 5. Legal protections for powers of attorney 6. Compensation concerns and marketing money 7. Using carrier logos and agent independence Listen to the episode now and protect your business.

Welcome back to "Insurance Business Babes"! In this episode, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff share their experiences in the Medicare insurance industry, highlighting the unexpected benefits of competition within a networking group, and the importance of maintaining long-term client relationships. They delve into the intricacies of Medicare plans, navigating government regulations, and utilizing technology to streamline their work. With candid discussions on entrepreneurial challenges, community involvement, and the evolution of their businesses, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone in the insurance industry or seeking to build sustainable client connections. Stay tuned for an engaging and informative episode of "Insurance Business Babes"!

In today's inaugural episode, we discuss: 1. Workplace Challenges: Discrimination, toxic environment, health struggles 2. Lead Generation: Challenges, limited resources, purchasing discrepancies 3. Business Growth: Struggles, perseverance, success journey 4. Company Culture: MLM model, favoring top producers, limited support 5. Industry Expertise: Medicare sales, navigating complexities, networking 6. Personal Development: Self-doubt, imposter syndrome, individual goals 7. Mentorship & Collaboration: Seeking guidance, networking, collaboration opportunities Listen in and get our secrets on how to improve YOUR insurance business!