Entrepreneurs Raul Gonzalez and Oscar Ibieta share motivation and ideas to increase our professional value.
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Welcome to Medicare Agent IQ, the podcast dedicated to helping you, the Medicare Insurance Agent, boost your success and elevate your career. Hosted by seasoned professionals Raul Gonzalez and Oscar Ibieta, who together have 26 years of combined experience in the Medicare realm, this 30-minute show is your go-to resource for mastering the competitive landscape of the insurance market. As experts in their field, Raul and Oscar have witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs faced by insu ...
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In this episode of 'What's The Move?', your hosts dive into hypothetical scenarios that every Medicare agent might encounter. They discuss the complexities and ethical considerations of navigating Medicare enrollments, timing transitions between plans, and assisting financially challenged clients. Join us for a session filled with crucial insights …
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Navigating Medicare: Answering Agent FAQs 2024 Part 2
32:45
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Join us for another insightful Q&A episode, as we dive deeper into the complex situations Medicare agents often encounter. From managing changes in provider networks to strategizing for the Annual Enrollment Period, this episode provides invaluable insights for new and experienced agents alike. We also discuss strategies to handle transitions betwe…
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Navigating Medicare: Answering Agent FAQs 2024
30:51
30:51
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30:51
We're back answering your questions! Join Run as we tackle various listener questions, offering insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of Medicare. From handling special enrollment periods to discussing ACA's impact on Medicare, we cover a wide range of topics to enhance your understanding and effectiveness as an agent.…
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Finding Your Why: Motivating Yourself for AEP Success
22:25
22:25
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22:25
In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the essence of inspiration and how it fuels our professional drive. Starting with personal stories that illustrate the profound impact of true inspiration, we explore what it means to find and define your 'why.' As the conversation unfolds, we delve into practical strategies for maintaining motivation and a…
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Getting Started in Medicare: A Step by Step Guide for New Agents
32:22
32:22
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32:22
Launching your career in Medicare can be daunting, but we're here to simplify it for you. In this insightful episode, we outline the foundational steps every new agent needs to take, from securing the right licenses to choosing your Field Market Organization (FMO). We'll walk you through the must-haves like E&O insurance, AHIP certification, and ho…
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Real Stories, Real Advice: Lessons from the Field Part 2
20:43
20:43
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Dive into this insightful discussion on why staying connected beyond standard hours can dramatically boost your business in Medicare sales. Discover how top agents leverage their availability to capture more leads and secure more deals. The episode emphasizes the critical importance of always being ready to engage with clients, even on weekends or …
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Real Stories, Real Advice: Lessons from the Field
35:33
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Dive into this week’s episode where Raul and Oscar share eye-opening anecdotes from their time in the field. From accidentally entering the wrong home to the crucial importance of answering calls even after hours, each story packs a powerful lesson about being meticulous, responsive, and informed. Learn why knowing your market and being available c…
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Networking Strategies for Medicare Agents
29:11
29:11
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Step up your networking game with this essential episode for Medicare agents, ‘Networking Strategies for Medicare Agents’ We cover four crucial areas to help you build a robust professional network. First, learn how to engage effectively with insurance carrier representatives who are pivotal in staying updated and supported. Then, delve into the wo…
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Three MORE Ways to Make People Like You (Part 2)
24:55
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This week, we explore additional timeless principles from Dale Carnegie's influential book "How To Win Friends and Influence People". In this episode, we focus on enhancing interpersonal connections through effective communication strategies: First, we emphasize the importance of being a good listener, a skill that invites others to share more abou…
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Mastering Client Retention: Strategies for Medicare Success in 2025
28:18
28:18
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28:18
Discover essential strategies to keep your Medicare Advantage clients engaged and satisfied well into 2025. In this episode, we delve into effective communication techniques including texting, calling, and mailing that ensure your clients feel constantly supported. Learn how hosting events, sending out newsletters, and leveraging social media can s…
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Three Ways To Make People Like You (Part 1)
26:41
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Join us today as we talk about three ways to make people like you.By Raul Gonzalez, Oscar Ibieta
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Hidden Insights on Medicare Supplements Every Agent Should Know
29:36
29:36
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29:36
Dive into the critical aspects of Medicare Supplements that every agent needs to master. This episode unpacks the complexities introduced by the MACRA 2020 rules, explores the nuances of pre-existing conditions, guaranteed issue rights, and the implications of high-deductible Plan G. We also discuss the essentials of foreign travel emergency and ex…
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Unlocking The Secrets to Better Relationships.
31:07
31:07
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In this episode, delve into the essential role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in shaping robust personal and professional bonds. Raul and Oscar discuss how developing a high EQ can lead to more meaningful interactions and a healthier work culture. Learn about practical ways to apply the enduring wisdom of 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' i…
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Hosting Hit Medicare Seminars: Engage, Educate, & Excel
30:27
30:27
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Dive into the essentials of hosting impactful Medicare seminars in this week’s episode. We cover everything from mastering public speaking to selecting the perfect venue. Learn how to transform your presentations from standard deliveries to dynamic, engaging sessions that captivate your senior audience. We'll discuss important guidelines and regula…
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Have Your Best AEP Yet: Early Prep For a Successful Season
29:06
29:06
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This week is all about gearing up for this year's Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). Join our hosts Raul and Oscar as they walk you through the essential steps to ensure you're fully prepared. From completing certifications and AHIP training early in the summer to understanding the implications of a projected 50% market disruption, this episode covers…
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Navigating Medicare: Answering Agent FAQs Part 2
27:23
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In this follow-up episode, we continue with a fresh set of agent FAQs. Explore how COBRA interacts with Medicare, including its role as creditable coverage and the impact on Special Enrollment Periods. We also address the delayed Part B enrollment process, debunk myths about keeping marketplace plans at age 65, and clarify who is eligible for Plan …
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Navigating Medicare: Answering Agent FAQs
24:33
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This week, we tackle a series of questions that every Medicare agent encounters. From understanding changes in coverage specifics, such as out-of-pocket limits and the implications of plan switches, to personal career moves like licensing in different states, this episode offers a deep dive into the essentials. We also discuss critical timings for …
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The Right Response: Mastering Customer Complaints
25:52
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This week we delve into the art of effectively handling customer grievances. This episode challenges the age-old philosophy of 'the customer is always right' by emphasizing the importance of truly listening and understanding the underlying issues behind complaints. We explore strategies for resolving conflicts, mitigating future grievances, and the…
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Ethical Selling: Navigating Medicare Sales with Integrity
27:38
27:38
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Ethical selling: A cornerstone for lasting success in any sales profession. In this week's episode, we discuss the critical importance of conducting a thorough needs analysis to truly understand and meet your clients' needs. We highlight how ethical practices not only build trust but also enhance client retention, significantly reducing the rate of…
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Allies in the Field: Redefine Competitor Relationships in Medicare Sales
25:46
25:46
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In this week’s episode, we explore the role of competition in professional growth and industry dynamics. We discuss the positive aspects of competing, emphasizing that the most impactful competition is often against one’s own previous achievements rather than solely against others. We also cover effective strategies for maintaining constructive rel…
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The Medicare Divide: Understanding Advantage and Supplement Plans
31:36
31:36
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In this week's episode, Raul and Oscar guide agents through the medicare divide. They will help agents have a better understanding of Advantage and supplement plans. Join us on this journey to master your understanding of the Medicare divide with confidence, enabling you to better assist and guide your clients.…
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Welcome back to another insightful episode of Medicare Agent IQ, where we delve into the art of client retention in the Medicare industry. In this episode, we explore why retaining your Medicare clients isn't just beneficial; it's essential for building a sustainable and thriving business. Five years down the line, agents who prioritize retention w…
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Real Life Scenarios: Mastering Medicare Conversations Part 2
35:22
35:22
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Continuing our "Real Life Scenarios" series, Raul and Oscar bring to life two new situations in this episode. First, they role-play a conversation with a client worried about the cost of their medication, providing insights on how to tackle this common issue. Then, they step into a scenario where an agent meets a prospect referred by a doctor's off…
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Real Life Scenarios: Mastering Medicare Conversations
31:25
31:25
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31:25
Join Raul and Oscar as they dive into the world of Medicare through engaging role-play scenarios in this episode. They tackle two common yet complex situations: Advising a federal employee on the choice between FEHB and Medicare Advantage plans, and guiding a veteran accustomed to VA benefits through Medicare enrollment These realistic simulations …
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Medicare Telesales: A Chat with Victoria Cabrera
41:29
41:29
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41:29
Join us as we dive into the world of Medicare Telesales with expert Victoria Cabrera. She breaks down what's on the horizon with the upcoming FCC regulations, how telesales stands out from in-person sales, and why it's crucial to create your own lead pipeline. Victoria shares practical advice and insights that anyone in telesales will find valuable…
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Own Your Area: Agent's Guide to Local Dominance
29:15
29:15
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29:15
In this week's episode, Raul and Oscar dive into the strategies that can make you the go-to Medicare agent in your community. From the power of grassroots marketing and getting involved locally to the impact of networking and smart digital marketing tactics, we cover all the bases. This episode is your roadmap to building a strong local presence, c…
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Scaling Your Medicare Business: Hiring Your First Admin
34:28
34:28
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34:28
In this week's episode, Raul and Oscar explore the pivotal moment in a business's growth when hiring an administrative assistant becomes essential. This episode covers the key qualities to look for in a potential employee, effective management strategies, and offer valuable insights from their own experiences It's all about finding the right person…
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Navigating the FMO Maze: Friend or Foe for Insurance Agents
28:43
28:43
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28:43
In this week's episode, we explore the vital aspects of selecting the right Field Marketing Organization, or FMO, for your Medicare career. We discuss the importance of receiving proper support, engaging in meaningful training, and securing direct compensation, alongside the red flags every agent should be wary of, such as dubious contracts, a lax …
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In this week's episode, we get into the crucial process of conducting a thorough needs analysis for your clients. Understanding the depth and importance of asking the right questions can transform the service you offer. We walk you through key inquiries that unlock your clients' true needs, highlight the pitfalls of skimming over this essential ste…
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Dreaming of starting your own Medicare insurance agency? This episode is your go-to guide for turning that dream into reality. We go over the essentials of understanding the Medicare landscape and the qualities of a selfless leader who puts the team and clients first. From the intricacies of recruiting and training top-notch agents to navigating th…
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In this week's episode, we explore one of the most common crossroads faced by those approaching Medicare eligibility. From breaking down employer coverage options to comparing them with what Medicare offers, we provide a comprehensive overview to help you assist clients in making informed decisions. We emphasize the personalized nature of this choi…
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Make This Your Best Year Yet. How? Part 2
30:01
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In Part 2 of our 'Make This Your Best Year Yet. How?', Oscar and Raul dive into the crucial elements of relationship-building and trust in the Medicare business. Discover why forging strong, personal connections with clients isn't just beneficial – it's essential for ensuring they stay with you. Beyond just business tactics, our hosts also share in…
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Ready to make this year your most successful one yet? In the first episode of 2024, we share the strategies and mindsets that can elevate your game to the next level. Our hosts explore the power of setting SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound objectives that keep you on track and focused. We also delve into the c…
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In Part 2 of our "Post-AEP: Building for the Future' series, we continue to guide agents through the crucial post-AEP period. This episode zeroes in on utilizing the remaining days of December to strategically prepare for the Open Enrollment Period (OEP). We emphasize the importance of being alert to Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) and the opport…
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Post-AEP Strategy: Building For The Future
28:06
28:06
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28:06
In this week's episode, we focus on the crucial steps agents should take after the hustle and bustle of the Annual Enrollment Period. As the dust settles, maintaining momentum is key. We dive into the importance of consistent follow-up calls, not just as a strategy to maintain client relationships but as a foundation for future success. Additionall…
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Diving Deep Into Your Sales Questions Part 2
24:11
24:11
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In this week's episode, we pick right up from where we left off last week. Answering agents' questions! We tackle the sensitive topic of how to handle it when a client decides to 'fire' you and the critical task of comparing clients' group health plans with Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans. To close out the episode, we get to the heart of our…
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Diving Deep into Your Sales Questions Part 1
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28:05
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28:05
In this episode of Medicare Agent IQ, we're diving into the questions that keep agents up at night. From grappling with a low AEP sales rate to pondering the expansion into ACA and Final Expense, we're tackling your biggest concerns head-on. Whether you're questioning your path or considering diversifying your portfolio, our hosts offer insights dr…
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The Art of Communication: A Journey For All of Us
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30:21
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In this week's episode, we're tackling the invaluable skill of communication. Good communication goes beyond words—it's about connection, understanding, and growth. We'll discuss how refining your communication skills can open doors in both your personal and professional lives, and why it's a lifelong journey worth embarking on. From insightful ane…
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No Fear: Build Confidence in Your Sales Strategy
30:36
30:36
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30:36
Every agent has felt it at one point or another – the gripping fear of failure. This week, Raul and Oscar discuss the real impact this fear has on Medicare agents and how it can drastically hold them back. But, guess what? Overcoming it is more attainable than you think. Join us as we explore how mastering your products and setting manageable goals…
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Diversify to Multiply: Boosting Your Business Revenue
30:13
30:13
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In this week's episode, Raul and Oscar break down the magic of cross-selling—a strategy every agent can use to enhance their revenue. Join us this week as we uncover the ins and outs of cross-selling, emphasizing its power to elevate your business and truly cater to your clients' diverse needs. Step up your sales game by tapping into the full spect…
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Elevate Your Approach: An Interview with a Listener
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Join us in a breakthrough episode where, for the first time, we invite a listener, Leancy, into the conversation, turning her challenges into shared wisdom for all. Leancy opens up about the hurdles she faces with calling leads—feeling bogged down and getting rejected. Your hosts, Raul and Oscar, and special guest, Priscilla, explore new avenues an…
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From Swipe to Sales: Reacting to Shorts with Raul & Oscar
29:28
29:28
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Ever wondered what seasoned pros think about those quick sales tips on YouTube shorts? Join Raul and Oscar this week as they dive into these bite-sized sales insights, sharing their takes, offering expert advice, and hashing out what they agree with and what misses the mark. Tune in and compare your thoughts with theirs…
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In this episode, Raul and Oscar chat about handling Medigap sales during the busy AEP season. While Medicare Supplement plan changes can be made any time of the year, agents are likely to get calls from Medigap clients who may think they need a change. Your hosts discuss being cautious when switching plans, what happens when a client's Medicare Adv…
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Mindsets Matter: Exploring Growth vs. Fixed Perspectives
26:34
26:34
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26:34
In our latest episode of Medicare Agent IQ, we discuss one of the most crucial tools for success - mindset. Discover why fostering a growth mindset can be beneficial, both personally and professionally, and how it differs from a fixed mindset. If you've ever felt trapped by limitations or wondered how to break out of a pattern, this episode is your…
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Switching Lanes with Ernest Arredondo: From Final Expense to Medicare
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On this week's episode, we chat with one of our own, Ernest Arredondo. Ernest walks us through his background, spills the details on how he got started in insurance sales, and breaks down his move from final expense to Medicare insurance. Curious about life as an independent Medicare insurance agent? Ernest's got some stories and insights you won't…
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Expand your horizons, Agents! In the second installment of The 4-Legged Stool, Raul and Oscar continue the conversation and discuss even more game-changing strategies! Tune in as your hosts cover: The Power of Informal Sales Events Unlocking Retail Opportunities Leveraging Social Media Marketing Best Practices & Expert Tips to Stay Ahead Whether yo…
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Diversifying your sales pipeline is the key to longevity and success in the Medicare field. In this week's two-part episodes, Raul and Oscar discuss a few strategies that can revitalize your sales approach and provide stability in ever-changing markets. In this first episode, we cover: The Art of Networking 'Turning 65' Educational Dinners Client R…
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The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is just around the corner, and for Medicare agents, it's the crunch time. In this week's episode, we share essential last-minute preparations to ensure you're ready for the AEP surge. Discover the importance of: Timely Medicare certifications. Cultivating strong relationships with local doctors and dentists. Tappi…
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Join us for another episode of Medicare Agent IQ where you hosts Raul Gonzalez and Oscar Ibieta break down the Dual Special Needs client. We cover the ins and outs of helping your dual clients with Medicaid and share some practical tips on finding these unique clients. If you're looking to expand your knowledge and better serve your dual clients, t…
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To Enroll or Not to Enroll: Navigating Medicare at 65
28:40
28:40
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28:40
In this episode, we dive into a crucial decision that every senior faces when they turn 65: whether to enroll in Medicare or not. As agents, understanding these intricacies can significantly enhance the support and guidance you provide your clients. Join us as we break down the pros and cons, navigate potential penalties and downsides, and illumina…
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