Shows
Insurance Business BabesGroups That Grow Your Insurance Business BNI, NABIP, and HAFA ExploredUnlocking Success Through Networking: Lessons from Insurance Business Babes PodcastNetworking Groups: Beyond the StereotypesOn Episode 83 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff tackled the power — and misconceptions — surrounding networking groups in the insurance industry. While some online conversations dismissed groups like BNI (Business Network International) as ineffective, both Kathe and Joanna shared personal stories that shattered these preconceptions. Kathe credited BNI for jumpstarting her Medicare career, highlighting how meeting diverse professionals led to surprising and lucrative referrals — even from seemingly unrelated fields like makeup sales. Joanna, initially skeptical, later founde...2025-08-0441 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowReal Stories, Real Lessons: Organizing Your Estate to Protect Your Family with David EdeeThis episode of the Rock Your Retirement show dives into a topic that many people shy away from but is absolutely crucial: estate planning and what happens when we’re no longer here. Host Kathe Kline, accompanied by Barb Mock, welcomes guest David Edee, who brings his personal and professional experience to the discussion. David shares his own difficult story of settling his parents’ estate—an ordeal that involved seven years in court, ten court appearances, and $50,000 in legal fees, all exacerbated by a lack of preparation and open conversation within his family. This deeply...2025-08-0430 minInsurance Business BabesFuture-Proofing Your Agency Amid Medicare Advantage VolatilityNavigating Industry Volatility: How Insurance Agents Can Thrive in a Changing Medicare LandscapeThe latest episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast brings together host Kathe Kline, co-host Joanna Wyckoff, and industry powerhouse Neil Reich for an honest discussion of the current turbulence in the Medicare insurance world. With plan exits, shrinking commissions, regulatory uncertainties, and unprecedented price hikes, agents must now adapt, diversify, and deepen relationships to stay successful.Industry Upheaval: What’s Changing in Medicare AdvantageAccording to guest Neil Reich, the past year has brought volatility unlike anything he’s seen...2025-07-2836 minInsurance Business BabesMed Supp Shakeup: Part B Prior Authorization Pilot ProgramUnderstanding the New Medicare Preauthorization Pilot: What Agents Need to KnowIf you’re an insurance agent, advisor, or just someone who loves to stay on top of Medicare changes, episode 85 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast is a must-listen. Hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline dive deep into Medicare’s new pilot program for prior authorizations on certain Part B services—sparking lots of questions (and a bit of anxiety) among agents and clients alike. Here’s a summary and further commentary on what you need to know.What’s Changing and Where?...2025-07-2124 minInsurance Business BabesStress-Busting Mindset Strategies During Medicare’s Busy SeasonUnlocking Success in Insurance: The Power of Mindset with Mitch WeisberghOn episode 82 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, host Kathe Kline welcomed mindset expert Mitch Weisbergh for an insightful discussion on the transformative power of mind shifting, particularly as it applies to professionals in the insurance industry. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways and practical strategies shared during their conversation.The Role of Mindset in InsuranceKathe set the stage by highlighting that Medicare insurance agents are, by nature, educators. Most clients aren’t “sold” on Medicare—it’s a necessity—so...2025-07-1430 minInsurance Business BabesFinding, Screening, and Training Virtual AssistantsHow to Successfully Hire and Manage a Virtual Assistant for Your Insurance BusinessRunning an insurance practice means juggling countless tasks, and as your client roster grows, so does the need for reliable support. In this week’s episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive deep into hiring virtual assistants (VAs)—sharing years of hands-on wisdom from building their own teams. Here are the best nuggets from their conversation, expanded for our blog readers.Why and When to Hire a Virtual AssistantMost insurance agents hit a br...2025-07-0743 minInsurance Business BabesBreaking Down Fixed and Indexed Annuities for Medicare AgentsBreaking Down Fixed and Indexed Annuities for Medicare AgentsIn episode 80 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, host Kathe Kline is joined by Tiffany Washington, whose unique journey from optometry to Medicare insurance provides valuable lessons for insurance professionals at every stage.Tiffany began her insurance career as a Licensed Only Agent (LOA), not fully understanding the differences between being an LOA and an independent agent. Her turning point arrived after three years with the same company, when she realized a new contract would leave her without ownership of her existing book of business. Despite...2025-06-3041 minInsurance Business BabesDon’t Wait: Why Early Certifications Are Essential for Insurance Agents in a Disruptive YearThe Rush for Early CertificationIn Episode 79 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline emphasize a time-sensitive issue for agents: annual certification season is here, and this year, it’s more important than ever to get it done early. With sweeping industry changes, particularly around MAPDs, and PDPs, waiting until the last minute could seriously jeopardize your business. Delays in certification reporting can easily make agents “not ready to sell” when the season kicks off, resulting in missed opportunities and unhappy clients. As Kathe puts it: “You cannot wait this year, folks. There ar...2025-06-2328 minInsurance Business BabesThe End of Grocery Cards: What D-SNP Agents Need to Know and Do NextHow Medicare Special Needs Plans Are Changing—and How Agents Can Support Clients NowRecent shifts in Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs), especially those affecting dual-eligible (D-SNP) beneficiaries, are causing ripples both for insurance professionals and the vulnerable individuals they serve. In this episode of Insurance Business Babes, Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff break down what's ahead and offer actionable strategies for agents to stay ahead of these changes.Understanding the Major Benefit ReductionsBeginning in 2026, CMS regulations will roll back many popular ancillary benefits for D-SNPs—including the much-loved grocery card. While chro...2025-06-1631 minInsurance Business BabesStay Ahead of Medicare Industry Changes Tools and Tactics for Agents with Dalton MillerPreparing for AEP: Embracing Technology and Proactive Strategies in the Insurance IndustryHost Kathe Kline and guest Dalton Miller dove headfirst into the changing landscape of Annual Election Period (AEP) preparation and why insurance agents must stay ahead of industry trends—especially in today’s rapidly evolving environment. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways and how you can apply them to your business.The Countdown to AEP Is On: Get Ahead EarlyDalton opened the conversation with a reality check—there are fewer business days than you think before AEP kicks off. The...2025-06-0950 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowHow to Tame Your Photo Chaos and Preserve Memories for GenerationsIn this episode of "Rock Your Retirement," host Kathe Kline and co-host Barb are joined by special guest Angela Andrieux, a fine art photographer and photography coach who works with Mylio Photos. The conversation centers around a problem many retirees—and really, anyone with a camera—face: what to do with the countless photos accumulated over a lifetime, scattered across different devices, albums, and platforms. Barb shares her personal struggle with organizing photos spanning decades, from physical albums in her motorhome to digital files on old computers, Facebook, Shutterfly, and her phone. She confesses the over...2025-06-0238 minInsurance Business BabesWhy Top Producers Network Differently: The Impact of Exclusive Sales TripsA Royal Experience: The Power of Insurance Sales Incentive TripsIn the latest episode of Insurance Business Babes, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dove into the unique world of insurance sales incentive trips—what they’re really like, how they differ from standard industry conferences, and the unexpected lessons learned along the way.Winning the Trip: More Than Just NumbersJoanna recently qualified for Physicians Mutual’s prestigious sales convention as an IMO, a milestone she reached within just a few short years of launching her agency, Top Flight. She described the event...2025-06-0233 minInsurance Business BabesSecret Sunfire Tool! How explaining it could have prevented an upline switchTechnology Transforming the Insurance Business: Insights from the Insurance Business Babes PodcastBig Changes and Hard Decisions In the most recent episode of "Insurance Business Babes," Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff offered an honest look into the critical decisions agents face—and how technology is rapidly reshaping insurance workflows. Kathe shared her journey of moving her business to Top Flight after years with a large organization that incentivized her with significant marketing dollars. But as her marketing needs evolved and desired operational changes (like making her assistant an LOA) de...2025-05-2648 minInsurance Business BabesAre Big Business Wins Hurting Independent Insurance Agents?Why Agents Should Think Twice Before Celebrating Industry “Good News”On the latest episode of Insurance Business Babes, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive into the issues behind Medicare’s disaster SEPs (Special Election Periods), recent government reversals, and why not all agent celebrations are necessarily cause for joy. If you’re an agent who’s popped the champagne over recent changes, this episode is for you.When "Wins" Aren't Wins for EveryoneThe government recently reversed a rule, now allowing agents to enroll clients using the disaster SEP again, rather than having cli...2025-05-1935 minInsurance Business BabesGet More Done by Automating Everyday BusinessUnlocking the Power of Automation for Insurance ProfessionalsIn a recent episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, host Kathe Kline sat down with automation expert OpeYemi Sanusi to explore how automating everyday business tasks can be a total game changer—especially for insurance professionals and agency owners who want to free up their time and focus on client relationships.Why Automate? The True Cost of Manual TasksKathe opened up about her own experience running an active Facebook group, explaining how time-consuming it was to manually process new member requests and collect da...2025-05-1238 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowTools and Tips for a Happy Retirement with Marlene Scheipel, PhDIn this episode of the Rock Your Retirement Show, host Kathe Kline and co-host Barb welcome Dr. Marlene Scheipel, a PhD in counseling psychology and licensed life coach, to discuss navigating the emotional and psychological aspects of retirement. Dr. Scheipel shares her extensive experience working with clients who are approaching or already in retirement and feeling uncertain, anxious, or unprepared for the transition. She emphasizes that while the financial side of retirement is often well addressed in society, the mental health and emotional planning required is frequently overlooked.The conversation digs into the practical steps...2025-05-0537 minInsurance Business BabesBeyond Boring: Creative Ways to Showcase Your Personality in InsuranceDon’t Be Boring: How Personality and Passion Can Transform Your Insurance MarketingWhen it comes to building a thriving insurance business, standing out from the crowd is key. In the latest episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline share invaluable insights into why infusing your marketing with your unique personality and passions isn’t just more fun—it’s also a winning strategy.Let Your Passions Shine ThroughKathe shares the story of an agent whose love for sports became the heartbeat of his marketing. Instead of a bor...2025-05-0522 minInsurance Business BabesThe Art of Email Marketing: Insights for Insurance AgentsCrafting Effective Email Strategies for Insurance Prospects and ClientsIn this episode of the "Insurance Business Babes" podcast, Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into the nuances of email communication in the insurance industry, offering a treasure trove of insights for agents looking to refine their approach.Client Communication: Less is MoreKathe begins by detailing her client email strategy, which revolves around sending just one email per month to prevent overwhelming her clients. This strategic choice not only respects her clients' inbox space but ensures that each communication is valued and not...2025-04-0721 minInsurance Business BabesFrom Busy Work to Profit: The Importance of Tracking in InsuranceUnderstanding the Importance of Tracking Metrics in Insurance BusinessIn our latest episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into a crucial aspect of managing an insurance business: metrics. These essential tools can transform a fledgling side hustle into a thriving enterprise by offering insights into profitability, productivity, and growth opportunities.Profit Tracking and Expense ManagementAs Joanna emphasizes, "Profit is crucial in any business." Understanding your financial health involves more than just knowing your gross income. It’s vital to assess net income by tracking al...2025-03-3134 minInsurance Business BabesBuilding Scalable Insurance OperationsScaling Your Insurance Business: Strategies and ToolsIn the latest episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff explore the crucial topic of scaling an insurance business. They share insights and practical advice on how to efficiently manage and grow a client base without sacrificing time or resources.Joanna and Kathe emphasize the importance of leveraging technology to enhance business operations. A prime example they discuss is the use of VOIP phone systems, like RingCentral or Dialpad, that not only record calls but also provide AI-generated summaries. This feature allows...2025-03-2434 minInsurance Business BabesHow to change UplinesNavigating the Transition: Changing Your Upline in the Insurance IndustryIn the dynamic world of insurance, making the decision to change your upline involves careful consideration and strategic planning. As discussed by Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff in the "Insurance Business Babes" podcast, understanding the intricacies of this process is crucial to making a smooth transition.Understanding the Release ProcessBefore initiating a move, agents must understand the release process. It’s essential to have a conversation with your current upline, expressing your intention and discussing any financial investments made, such as marketing fu...2025-03-1739 minInsurance Business BabesThis one tip could make you thousands of dollarsIn this episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff welcome Susan Sutton, a seasoned carrier representative from Ohio, to discuss strategies that could significantly enhance business growth in the insurance sector. They delve into the importance of making timely follow-up calls to clients and leveraging the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) to solidify relationships and garner referrals. Susan shares valuable insights into registered sales events, enhancing client engagement and education. The hosts and Susan also emphasize the significance of cultivating systems for client follow-ups...2025-03-1035 minInsurance Business BabesThe Small World of Insurance: Never Underestimate Carrier ConnectionsBuilding Strong Relationships with Carrier RepsIn the latest episode of the "Insurance Business Babes" podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff stress the significance of cultivating strong relationships with carrier reps in the insurance industry. Through anecdotes and practical advice, they highlight the advantages of such alliances.The Importance of Carrier ConnectivityKathe opens with a reminder that while frustrations with carriers are common, maintaining a good rapport with them is invaluable. She shares a recent experience where her patience and initiative in engaging with her carrier rep, Fred, turned a potentially...2025-03-0323 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowDiscovering New Passions in Retirement Insights from Becky Blue's BookIn this episode of the "Rock Your Retirement" podcast, host Kathe Kline and guest host Barbara welcome Rebecca (Becky) Blue as a special guest. Rebecca, an accomplished author and retired nurse, discusses her journey of writing a book during the pandemic. The book reflects on aging and explores the possibilities for what she refers to as the "third chapter" in life. With her background as a geriatric nurse, Becky shares her reflections and essays, drawing from a rich library of aging literature she collected over the years.The conversation delves into Becky's childhood and her...2025-03-0335 minInsurance Business BabesSimplifying Your Insurance Business Less is MoreIn this episode of the Insurance Business Babes Podcast, hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline discuss the challenges and strategies for insurance agents in focusing on profitable endeavors, rather than getting distracted by less beneficial tasks. They share their experiences with selling travel and dental insurance without needing multiple state licenses or excessive contracts. Emphasizing the importance of focusing on core business areas and efficient operations, they advocate for concentrating on local markets or specific products and avoiding the pitfalls of spreading oneself too thin. They also...2025-02-2443 minInsurance Business BabesResolving Business Bottlenecks with Joshua MongeResolving Business Bottlenecks: Insights from Joshua MongeIn episode 61 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, Kathe Kline interviewsJoshua Monge, a fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO), who shares his expertise on improving operations within small businesses, particularly insurance agencies. This blog post delves into key points from their discussion, providing valuable insights for business owners looking to optimize their operations.Monge starts by highlighting the importance of identifying bottlenecks within a business. He compares the flow of business operations to a river, where blockages can significantly impede progress. Surprisingly, in many small businesses, the owner is...2025-02-1746 minInsurance Business BabesReduce your Hours by Going LocalLocal Marketing: A Game-Changer for Insurance AgentsIn this week's episode of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff elaborated on the power and efficiency of focusing on local marketing. Here are some key insights from their conversation.Kathe shares her experience since moving from California to South Carolina in 2019. She initially saw a decrease in client acquisition but eventually achieved remarkable growth by focusing on her new neighborhood. For instance, in 2022, Kathe managed to get 103 new clients by primarily concentrating on a local marketing, including a specialized Facebook group. She...2025-02-1038 minInsurance Business BabesManaging Bias, Burnout, and Business Growth in InsuranceIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," Joanna Wyckoff shares a challenging incident where a client was unwilling to engage with her assistant due to racial bias. This underscores the ongoing issues of discrimination that persist even in professional settings. Joanna emphasizes the importance of her office process, where clients must communicate with her assistant for scheduling—allowing her to focus on more critical insurance matters.Kathe Kline suggests tools like Calendly for online scheduling, yet Joanna points out that some clients still prefer or are unaware of these digital methods. Kathe’s alternative approach to managing her...2025-02-0339 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowTransforming Your Space How Organization Enhances Joy and Reduces ChaosIn this episode of the "Rock Your Retirement" podcast, host Kathe Kline and long term guest Barbara Mock delve into the transformative power of organization.
The conversation begins with Barbara sharing her recent accomplishments in organizing her home, particularly her closet. As she walks into her newly organized space, she describes the happiness and satisfaction it brings her. Her move and subsequent downsizing prompted her to evaluate what possessions truly matter, leading to a gradual organization process that culminated in a partnership with Closets by Design for a custom closet installation.
Barbara explains the practical...2025-02-0324 minInsurance Business BabesOEP: It's time to Refresh and Revitalize your Business!In the latest episode of the "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline dove into an insightful discussion on balancing business growth with maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle. The hosts address the age-old debate: Should one scale their business for greater financial gain, or prioritize a simpler, more content life?Kathe shared an anecdote about a Mexican fisherman content with his modest, yet fulfilling life, contrasting with the American tourist's ambition to scale his income. Kathe resonated with the fisherman, advocating for a business that sustains her financially without demanding aggressive expansion. Her...2025-01-2748 minInsurance Business BabesThe Future of Disaster SEPs: Agents Adjust to New CMS RulesIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline delve into the complexities and evolving landscape of disaster-related special election periods (SEPs) and their potential phase-out, largely due to misuse by giant call centers and regulatory changes from CMS.They discuss the impact these changes have on independent agents, including the challenge of managing client enrollments and commissions amidst growing restrictions and automatic enrollments. The episode covers various industry issues such as the influence of high-profile figures in policy-making, the role of nonprofits like Health...2025-01-1331 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowReviewing "Die with Zero"In this episode of "Rock Your Retirement," host Kathe Kline welcomes Barbara, our long-term guest who delves into the thought-provoking concepts introduced in the book "Die with Zero" by Bill Perkins.
The episode kicks off with Barbara explaining how she was recommended the book by a listener, and why its principles deviate from traditional financial advice. The book, which challenges the norm of scrimping and saving for retirement, advocates for living a rich, experience-filled life. The key premise is that individuals should aim to spend their money on creating memories and enjoying life rather than hoarding wealth...2025-01-0627 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowHow to Enjoy Retirement on a Budget
In this episode of "Rock Your Retirement," Kathe Kline and Barbara Mock discuss a range of affordable living and travel options for seniors, particularly focused on those with limited financial means.
Addressing concerns about the targeted demographic of the show, Kathe and Barbara dive into practical solutions for managing housing expenses, such as selling a home and moving to a more cost-effective area or exploring reverse mortgages, despite potential inheritance implications. They also introduce the concept of "home share," where senior services connect home providers with seekers, offering shared living arrangements that reduce costs and...2024-12-0234 minInsurance Business BabesStreamlining Medicare Enrollments Tips and Tricks for Agents (Part 2 of Plan Shutdowns...)Crisis Alert: Navigating Plan Closures and Provider DisruptionsAs agents in the ever-evolving landscape of Medicare, staying ahead of substantial changes is critical. The latest episode of Insurance Business Babes tackled urgent and pressing issues of plan closures and provider disruptions, highlighted by hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff.This year, Kathe Kline faced the daunting reality of 18 Medicare plans closing in her area. It's not just about informing clients; it's about comprehensive client care. Preceding the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), Kathe's assistant diligently sent out notifications and made follow-up calls to ensure that no...2024-11-2523 minInsurance Business BabesPlan Shutdowns and Automation: An AEP Survival GuideCrisis Alert: Navigating Plan Closures and Provider DisruptionsAs agents in the ever-evolving landscape of Medicare, staying ahead of substantial changes is critical. The latest episode of Insurance Business Babes tackled urgent and pressing issues of plan closures and provider disruptions, highlighted by hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff.This year, Kathe Kline faced the daunting reality of 18 Medicare plans closing in her area. It's not just about informing clients; it's about comprehensive client care. Preceding the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), Kathe's assistant diligently sent out notifications and made follow-up calls to ensure that no...2024-11-1826 minRock Your Retirement ShowBreaking the Cycle of NegativityKathe Kline and Barbara Mock go for an unscripted and heartfelt discussion on the topic of negativity, particularly among individuals aged 60 and older. Although Barbara is known for her unfailing positivity, she steps up to offer insights and advice on dealing with negativity in aging communities. The episode dives into various scenarios where older adults often exhibit pessimistic and critical attitudes, exploring the underlying reasons and potential remedies for such behavior.
Kathe shares her personal experience of managing a large Facebook group within her community, where she has encountered various instances of negativity. She relays a particular...2024-11-0428 minInsurance Business BabesShould Agents Pay Up?# Should You Pay Your FMO for Training? Insights from the Insurance Business Babes**The Initial Investment: Paying for Training to Foster Seriousness**In the latest episode of *Insurance Business Babes*, hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline delve into a contentious topic: whether new insurance agents should pay their Field Marketing Organization (FMO) for training. Wyckoff starts by mentioning that although selling one application can cover a $200 monthly training fee, the investment creates a deterrent for those who are not serious about succeeding in the industry. She proposes that agents pay upfront for their training with...2024-10-2830 minInsurance Business BabesHate Dental? Rethinking Dental InsuranceHosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff were joined by Jamieson Keller, Chief Commercial Officer at NCD, whose insights on dental insurance are invaluable for every Medicare agent.Cross-Selling OpportunitiesJamieson emphasizes the importance of cross-selling dental insurance as a critical component of comprehensive client service. By integrating dental plans, agents can fill significant gaps in coverage that many clients overlook. This is not merely about augmenting sales; it's about addressing real healthcare needs. As Joanna Wyckoff noted, clients rely on their agents for full-spectrum coverage, making dental insurance an essential offer.Understanding the...2024-10-2142 minInsurance Business BabesReduce Anxiety and Increase Productivity with OrganizationIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Joanna Wyckoff and Kathe Kline stress the importance of organization and preparation, especially before the Annual Election Period (AEP). They discuss various strategies for maintaining focus and efficiency, such as scheduling health appointments in advance, keeping detailed to-do lists, and using technology to manage tasks. Joanna shares her experience of feeling overwhelmed by clutter and how moving to an organized space brought her peace, while Kathe emphasizes the benefits of a highly organized back office and ergonomic investments like standing desks. They explore tools like Sunfire, Google Sheets, screen recording software...2024-10-1438 minInsurance Business BabesHow the Inflation Reduction Act Reforms Medicare Part D Plans in 2025Understanding Medicare Part D and the Inflation Reduction ActKathe Kline is joined by Andrew Saul, Sales Director at Physicians Mutual, to delve into the complexities surrounding Medicare Part D and the changes ushered in by the Inflation Reduction Act. Key points of discussion included the new $2,000 out-of-pocket cap and its impact on seniors, along with price negotiation for prescription drugs.One of the major hurdles discussed was the inability of Medicare to negotiate drug prices, which has historically driven up costs for seniors. Andrew Saul illustrated this disparity with the example of Eliquis, a...2024-09-3040 minInsurance Business BabesClient Retention Strategies Amid Medicare Plan DisruptionsNavigating Medicare Plan Changes: Key Strategies for Insurance AgentsIn our latest episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff dive deeply into the essentials of managing Medicare plan changes and the importance of timely communication with clients. Here are the most critical takeaways and strategies discussed to ensure a smooth transition during plan updates.Joanna Wyckoff emphasizes the importance of contacting clients as early as possible to lock in new Medicare plans, minimizing coverage gaps and anxiety. Starting communications with clients whose plans are leaving their county first ensures that they...2024-09-2337 minInsurance Business BabesLast Minute AEP preparation tipsLast-Minute AEP Preparation: Key Strategies from Industry ExpertsAs we approach the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), ensuring that your preparations are comprehensive and efficient is critical for a successful season. In this episode of Insurance Business Babes, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff shared valuable insights and strategies for last-minute AEP prep. Here’s a summary of their advice to help you navigate through this busy time.The hosts emphasized the importance of staying updated on market changes and new regulations, particularly in light of the Inflation Reduction Act and its ef...2024-09-1626 minInsurance Business BabesSurviving Major Carrier Compensation Cuts: Insights and Strategies for BrokersNavigating the Shifting Landscape of Medicare Plans: Insights from Insurance Business BabesIn a recent episode of the ever-insightful "Insurance Business Babes" podcast, hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into pressing issues facing insurance brokers and their clients in the Medicare universe. From the discontinuation of broker commissions to the underappreciated importance of ancillary insurance plans, the conversation offers valuable guidance for both professionals and clients.Kathe Kline opens the episode expressing her deep frustration with a significant insurance carrier halting broker payments for prescription drug plans (PDPs). This development threatens to cut her...2024-09-0925 minInsurance Business BabesStage 8: Selling Your Medicare Business: Insights and Tips for a Smooth TransitionIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," host Kathe Kline is joined by guest Christian Brindle to discuss the intricacies of preparing for the transition or sale of a Medicare business.
They differentiate between selling the entire business, which includes systems and leadership and tends to be more lucrative, and selling just the client book or policies, which is generally less profitable.
They delve into key concepts such as EBITDA, earnouts, and the importance of knowing your business metrics.
They also emphasize the necessity of proper succession planning to avoid losing the business's...2024-09-0221 minRock Your Retirement ShowFrom Grumpy Old Men to Blue Zones: Garry Cole on AgingIn this heartfelt and insightful episode of "Rock Your Retirement," host Kathe Kline and long term guest co-host Barbara Mock welcome Garry Cole to engage in a deep conversation about aging, purpose, and relationships in the context of retirement.
Barbara shares her excitement about her new project and inquires about Gary's future aspirations post-retirement. Gary opens up about his evolving purpose, as his children have moved away and he now channels his energy into learning and sharing knowledge about aging through various platforms.
The discussion organically transitions to the critical topics of health and longevity...2024-09-0239 minInsurance Business BabesStage 7: Acquiring and Managing a Sales TeamKathe and Joanna are preparing for AEP, so we're bringing you Stage 7 of a Medicare Agents business, originally aired on Christian Brindle's YouTube Channel.Kathe Kline and Christian Brindle delve into the intricate balance between managing a growing business and maintaining a manageable workload. They explore the challenges and potential benefits of hiring and managing a sales team, and the impact of technological advancements in the Medicare industry.### Reluctance to Manage DownlinesKathe Kline expresses her reluctance to sell or be responsible for a downline's marketing expenses, fearing it might adversely impact her earnings. Christian Brindle...2024-08-2730 minInsurance Business BabesStage 6 of Medicare Business: Building Tweaking, and Maintaining SystemsJoanna and Kathe are still on vacation, so our latest episode of "Insurance Business Babes," is a replay of Christian Brindle and Kathe Kline where they discussed the sixth stage of a Medicare Agent's Business: The building Tweaking, and Maintaining Stage.**Building Robust Systems for Success**A major topic we delved into was the critical importance of building efficient systems, particularly through Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools. A CRM is indispensable for tracking client interactions, ensuring compliance, and maintaining strong relationships. We emphasized that agents must control their data, rather than relying solely on carrier sites or...2024-08-1940 min
Insurance Business BabesInsurance Marketing: From TikTok Success to University Partnerships with Scott SimsIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Scott Sims, Joanna Wyckoff, and Kathe Kline delve into the dynamics of leveraging social media and traditional marketing for business growth in the insurance industry. Scott shares his journey of transitioning from viewing TikTok as a fun experiment to using it as a powerful marketing tool, acquiring over 100 clients and amassing significant followers. The conversation explores diverse marketing strategies, including partnerships with the University of Oregon athletic department and local TV commercials. Kathe questions the ROI and effort involved in social media, comparing it to podcasting, and emphasizes the value of paid...2024-07-2945 min
Insurance Business BabesBalancing Business and Life: Joanna's New Personal AssistantIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff discuss Joanna's decision to hire a personal assistant to help balance her demanding work and personal life. Joanna highlights the challenges of managing her business alongside personal responsibilities, especially due to her disability. She shares her past experiences with unreliable help and stresses the importance of finding someone trustworthy and capable. The personal assistant will handle tasks such as organizing, cooking, and administrative work, giving Joanna the opportunity to focus on higher-value tasks and improve her mental health. Both hosts emphasize the significance of delegating tasks to...2024-07-2234 min
Insurance Business BabesStreamline Your Medicare Process with your own T65 VideoIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into the creation and utilization of video content for insurance professionals, particularly focusing on Medicare education.
Kathe shares her journey with using video creation tools like Loom and her strategy of white-labeling a perfected educational video for CertifiedMedicareAgents.com Gold members, while debating the inclusion of California-specific content. The duo underscores the efficiency and client engagement benefits of using pre-recorded, unbranded videos, supporting the practice with personal anecdotes and practical tips like employing teleprompters and editing software.
They also highlight the importance of relatability and authenticity...2024-07-1532 min
Insurance Business BabesSafeguarding Your Insurance Legacy: Keith Nabb's Tips for Effective Succession PlanningIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Joanna Wyckoff, and Kathe Kline talk with Keith Nabb, delving into the critical aspects of succession planning for insurance professionals. They emphasize the importance of treating an insurance business like a business by investing in tools like CRM and assistants, the significance of maintaining separate bank accounts for commissions, and the necessity of an estate plan and trust to save on probate costs. The discussion covers securing sensitive information through tools like LastPass and setting up essential legal documents through reasonably priced templates offered on their website. Using real-life examples, they underscore...2024-07-0841 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowPreparing for the Future: Safety, Cancer Care, and End-of-Life DecisionsIn this episode, host Kathe Kline and guest Barbara delve into crucial aspects of end-of-life planning and the importance of safety for older adults. They discuss bathroom accessibility improvements, emphasizing the need for thoughtful renovations to prevent falls. Barbara shares her personal journey as a breast cancer patient, highlighting her experiences with radiation therapy and the significance of humor during such challenges. They stress the necessity of legal preparations like wills, medical directives, and trusts to ease future burdens on loved ones, and offer practical advice on managing personal belongings and organizing essential information for emergencies. The conversation underscores the...2024-07-0131 min
Insurance Business BabesAre you treating your insurance business like a business?In this episode, Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff discuss various aspects of running a successful insurance business, drawing from personal experiences and industry knowledge. They highlight the importance of having professional representation and the pitfalls of conflicting interests, using LegalShield as an example. They emphasize treating the business professionally, from having separate phone numbers and emails to maintaining updated professional photos and name badges. The hosts stress the importance of time management, goal setting, and adapting to industry changes, while also ensuring work-life balance through time blocking and setting boundaries. They address financial planning, professionalism, and the necessity of errors...2024-06-2438 min
Insurance Business BabesPreparing for AEP: Early Certifications and Effective Client Communication StrategiesIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff delve into the crucial aspects of managing Medicare certifications and plan comparisons. They discuss the utility of creating spreadsheets for comparing benefits between different counties and plans, leveraging a virtual assistant for data entry, and the importance of completing AHIP and UnitedHealthcare Fast Track recertifications early to avoid disruptions. Emphasizing meticulous organization, they recommend updating these spreadsheets, utilizing a HIPAA compliant CRM, attending carrier meetings, and building cheat sheets. With personal anecdotes highlighting the perils of being uninformed, the hosts underscore the vital role of broker managers...2024-06-1735 min
Insurance Business BabesUsing AI and CRMs to Optimize Client Care and Business OperationsIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff talk about a bunch of different things, but delve into the importance of using CRM systems and technology to streamline client interactions and protect against disputes. They discuss various tools like Applaud AI for recording face-to-face meetings, Dialpad for phone calls, and RingCentral for sales calls, stressing the necessity of keeping detailed records and obtaining consent. The hosts share their experiences in dealing with client billing issues, managing educational events, and leveraging technology like AI and CRM systems to enhance their business operations. Amid personal and professional...2024-06-1035 min
Insurance Business BabesAdapting to CMS changes for 2025In this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," hosts Kathe Kline and Joanna Wyckoff, alongside guest Angela Palo, delve into the multifaceted challenges faced by insurance agents amid evolving CMS regulations and Medicare policies. They discuss the skewed perceptions government employees have about agents due to primarily hearing complaints, emphasizing the need for CMS employees to better understand the agents' work. The conversation highlights concerns over potential changes to essential tools like Connecture and Sunfire, and the financial burden these might place on agents. They also address issues with client communication during plan changes, the affordability and necessity of CRM systems...2024-06-0346 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowEmbracing Change: Barbara's Cancer Recovery Journey and Journey to HealingHost Kathe Kline sits down with guest Barbara, who shares her emotional journey after undergoing surgery for breast cancer. Barbara discusses the challenges of the surgical process, the physical and emotional toll of post-surgery recovery, and the impact of her diagnosis on her retirement plans. The conversation delves into the complexities of accessing medical care and the importance of addressing health issues as we age. Barbara's resilience and determination to find hope amidst uncertainty provide insights and inspiration for listeners navigating similar experiences. Tune in as they explore the snow globe analogy and discuss the integral role of mental, emotional...2024-06-0335 min
Insurance Business BabesDAC- Navigating The Medicare Maze for Developmentally Disabled AdultsIn this episode of "Insurance Business Babes," guest Cynthia McCluskey joins Kathe Kline to delve into the unique challenges faced by adults with developmental disabilities, specifically focusing on the complexities surrounding Medicaid and Medicare systems. They discuss the often-overlooked Disabled Adult Child (DAC) program, highlight the importance of community engagement and education to improve awareness of available benefits, and tackle the difficulties in finding suitable housing and accessing necessary medical care. The episode is enriched with expert insights from Cynthia McCluskey, who adds perspective to the conversation through her advocacy experience. She emphasizes the significance of properly navigating the healthcare...2024-05-2040 min
Insurance Business BabesConference Dilemma: How to Determine Which Insurance Trainings Are Worth Your TimeKathe 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.2024-05-0625 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowGrace and Gratitude: Barbara's Cancer Journey and Seeking SupportIn this episode of "Rock Your Retirement," host Kathe Kline is joined by Barbara as they delve into a deeply personal and poignant discussion surrounding Barbara's recent breast cancer diagnosis. This heartfelt conversation touches upon the emotional upheaval and complexities of navigating medical procedures, support, and the fear of recurrence. The episode also explores the impact of the diagnosis on Barbara's family dynamic and provides valuable insights on navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Join us as we explore the importance of early detection, coping strategies, and the significance of seeking support during challenging times.2024-05-0637 min
Insurance Business BabesTaking Control: The Shift from Employee to Owner MindsetIn 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...2024-04-2928 min
Insurance Business BabesMedicaid Waivers and other Out of the Box ideas for your clientsIn 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...2024-04-2234 min
Insurance Business BabesUnderstanding Health Care Professionals' Concerns About Medicare Advantage Plans: Exploring Real IssuesWe 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.2024-04-1526 min
Insurance Business BabesStep Up Your Insurance Game with Tech ToolsIn 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...2024-04-0837 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowThe RightSize Mindset: Transforming Your Home and HappinessKathe Kline invites special guests Barbara Mock and Marni Jameson to unwrap the art of living simply and meaningfully as we progress through the various stages of retirement. Marni's newest book, Rightsize Today, is a must read for anyone considering changing homes, changing locations, or rethinking how to live in their current home.2024-04-0136 min
Insurance Business BabesFrom Pass to Prep: How New Agents Can Hit the Ground RunningIn 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...2024-04-0137 min
Insurance Business BabesTackling Procrastination: The Power of AccountabilityIn 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...2024-03-2531 min
Insurance Business BabesAre you prepared to Lose your FMO (or at least the benefits they provide)?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...2024-03-1825 min
Insurance Business BabesMaking Every Conference Count: Valuable Lessons for Insurance AgentsIn 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...2024-03-1142 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowMoving Beyond the RV: Downsizing, Community, and Redefining RetirementIn this episode of the Rock Your Retirement Show, host Kathe Kline is joined by guest Barbara to discuss the challenges and experiences of moving and downsizing after years of RV living. Barbara shares her journey from living in an RV as a snowbird to downsizing and finally moving into a new home closer to family, detailing the emotional and practical aspects of the move. From unexpected costs and adjustments to the joys of being near family, Barbara provides an insightful look into the reality of major life changes in retirement. Tune in to gain valuable insights and learn about...2024-03-0429 min
Insurance Business BabesMore Leads (Part 2 of Leads leads Leads)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...2024-02-2631 min
Insurance Business BabesLeads Leads Leads Part 1Kathe 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. L...2024-02-1930 min
Insurance Business BabesThe Part B Drug Predicament: Exploring MAPD Challenges and Client StoriesIn 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!2024-02-1229 min
Insurance Business BabesGetting Started with LOAsLOAs (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.2024-02-0545 min
Insurance Business BabesBoosting Productivity: Hiring an Executive AssistantIn 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.2024-01-2236 min
Insurance Business BabesThe Hustle and Growth of Medicare Business Part 1 with Christian BrindleIn 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...2024-01-0833 min
Insurance Business BabesIt's time to Give up...to Grow Your BusinessIn 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...2023-12-2533 min
Insurance Business BabesThe Importance of Educating Clients: Mental Health Benefits, Balance Billing, and Uncovered ServicesWelcome 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...2023-12-1832 min
Insurance Business BabesThe Power of Personal Branding: Joanna and Kathe Dissect Agent Practices in the Insurance IndustryIn 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...2023-12-1129 min
Insurance Business BabesUnveiling the Challenges: Medicare Insurance Regulations, SEPs, and Power of Attorney ReformsToday 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...2023-12-0418 min
Insurance Business BabesMarketing in the New Era: Adapting to Compliance Rules and Maximizing Lead GenerationIn 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...2023-11-2734 min
Insurance Business BabesNavigating AEP and Building a Successful Insurance Business: A Candid ConversationIn 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...2023-11-2026 min
Insurance Business BabesMastering Medicare Sales: Tactical Advice from Insurance Business Babes PodcastWelcome 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 "...2023-11-1336 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowPickleball, Purpose, and the Delights of Retirement ExplorationIn this episode of "Rock Your Retirement," host Kathe Kline welcomes guest Betsy again, who shares her recent adventures in retirement. Betsy talks about her upcoming trip to Italy during a less busy time of year, detailing their plans to navigate the country using buses and taxis, as well as hiring a private driver for a few days. She looks forward to visiting iconic sites like Pompeii and the Isle of Capri, with private tours and boat trips on the agenda.
The conversation takes a turn towards Betsy's newfound hobbies in retirement, including taking CPR and first aid classes, as...2023-11-0648 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowThriving in Retirement: Betsy's Update on Her First 4 Months of RetirementIn this episode of the Rock Your Retirement Show, Betsy makes a triumphant return to update host Kathe Kline on her exciting journey since retiring four months ago. From embarking on an exhilarating trip to Morocco to settling into the rhythm of retired life, Betsy shares her experiences and offers valuable insight into making the most of this newfound freedom.
Adapting to retirement initially proved to be an adventure in itself, but Betsy quickly found her groove. She discusses the importance of keeping up with appointments, errands, and chores while still finding ample time for self-care and enjoyable activities. A...2023-09-1117 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowA Journey of Retirement: Nurturing Bonds, Overcoming Challenges, and Embracing the Golden YearsIn this episode of the Rock Your Retirement Show, Betsy, a retired individual, opens up about the incredible bond she has formed with her elderly mother-in-law. Betsy recounts the recent incident where her mother-in-law suffered a compression fracture in her spine after falling out of bed. She explains how they had to rush her to the hospital and then to a rehab facility. Throughout this challenging time, Betsy has been there for her mother-in-law, assisting her with little tasks and gaining valuable insights into her life and experiences.
As Betsy navigates the world of retirement, she also sheds light on...2023-08-1420 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowThe Joys and Strategies of Retirement: A Conversation with New Retiree BetsyIn this episode of Rock Your Retirement, Kathe Kline introduces us to Betsy, a retiree who shares her experiences and insights on how to make the most of retirement. Betsy is excited about the freedom and autonomy that retirement brings, and she looks forward to spending more time with her loved ones, exploring new hobbies, and traveling to new places.
Betsy acknowledges the importance of financial planning in retirement, but she also emphasizes the need to focus on other pillars, such as health and wellness, life-long learning, giving back to the community, and having fun. She advises listeners to take...2023-04-2427 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowLearning Moments in RetirementKathe Kline talks with columnist Steve Lopez about retirement and retirement lifestyle2023-01-0941 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowSection 16: Barbara's RV Retirement Adventure Part 2Kathe Kline talks with Barbara Mock about retirement lifestyle and her RV Retirement Adventure.2021-11-2949 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowSection 14: Finding our Purpose in LifeFor this episode, Kathe Kline gives us an update on her retirement quest. We have a health segment on Pickleball, and Barbara will give an update on how her actual retirement is going.2021-09-2745 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowSection 12: Focusing on Health in RetirementBarbara Mock and Kathe Kline discuss health in retirement. Barbara has had some people close to her with some health issues. When loved ones have health issues we tend to rethink our priorities. We also talk about renting e-bikes and what is next in Barbara's retirement journey.2021-07-2752 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowCOVID-19 message to our listenersToday's message is about how to stop the spread of COVID-19 and how we are changing the show a bit to deal with this crisis.
Transcript below:
Hi, I’m Kathe Kline, the founder of the Rock Your Retirement Show. I’m recording this special episode on Sunday, March 22nd 2020, and it’s regarding COVID 19.
If this is the first time you’ve listened, understand that today’s show isn’t our normal type of show. I wanted to talk with you and share some things about this crisis that we are in throughout the world.
Last week I sent everyone on ou...2020-03-2321 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowKathe Guests on Hillbilly Nerd Talk to talk about Retirement – Ep 207As we’re getting ready to make major life changes, we’re consulting with an expert on making the next phase of life the best it can be. Kathe Kline of RockYourRetirement.com and The Rock Your Retirement Podcast joins us to talk about more than finances moving into “after work years”. Kathe shares with us great tips about being prepared for retirement, planning together, not being tied to “stuff”, and Meetup.com.
Retirement
There are so many people that don’t want to retire. Take my husband, for example, Les is financially able to retire, he doesn’t work per se, for mone...2019-12-301h 24
Rock Your Retirement ShowYour Medications Can Cause Dementia – Ep 196This episode is from the vault and was first released November 20, 2017.
Dr. Newton wants to educate people on how medications can cause dementia. Also, how to avoid these medications.
The only thing worse than having dementia is taking care of a loved one with dementia.
Many people do not realize that many medications can cause dementia.
Dr. Camille Newton is a home visiting physician. You may also know it as a traveling doctor or mobile doctor. It is such an important service for seniors that are not able to travel for the doctor’s appointments. She focuses on minimizing medications. Es...2019-10-1439 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowKathe Joins the Retire Hoppy Show to Discuss Health Shares – Episode 192This is Angie, the Rock Your Retirement producer. Kathe has been featured in other podcasts over the years. This episode takes you back to 2017, where Kathe appeared on the Retire Hoppy Podcast. We hope you enjoy it.
And while you're enjoying our podcast, can you do us a quick favor? Click on this link to join the Retirement Community and Rock Your Retirement at http://www.rockyourretirement.com/group.
One challenge of early retirement is finding affordable health insurance. Enter Health shares a more cost effective option for some. On this episode, I joined Roy Weinberg and Ted Carr of R...2019-09-1620 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowTop 10 Most Downloaded Episodes of 2018HERE'S THE LIST OF THE TOP 10 MOST DOWNLOADED PODCAST IN 2018
* Episode 135 – Downsize your Home and your Life by Kathy Gottberg* Episode 141 – Retire Early and Travel Part 1 by Keith and Tina Paul* Episode 117 – Finding Meaning and Purpose in Retirement by Fritz Gilbert* Episode 143 – Tips for a Great Retirement Experience by Randy Gardner* Episode 116 – Six Pillars of Retirement by Kathe Kline* Episode 142 – Retire Early and Travel Part 2 by Keith and Tina Paul* Episode 123 – Longevity and Staying Young by Judy Gaman* Episode 121 – How Seasonal Jobs can Help you Rock Your Retirement by Kelcy Fowler and Matt Moore* Episode 138 – Men and Women in Retirement by Dr. Sara Yogev* Episode...2018-12-3125 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowLiving Healthy in Retirement: Episode 150Living Healthy in Retirement
I am Kathe Kline and I am back with another episode of the Rock Your Retirement Show. Today’s episode is all about living healthy and our special guest is Georganne Schuch, often called as healthy habit master. After going through two extremely difficult pregnancies, which almost put her in a life and death situation, a cardiomyopathy scare, and several other health issues, Georgeanne decided to change her life and help others do the same.
The health enthusiast has developed 12 healthy habits set to assist people to make their lives healthy without spending a lot of mo...2018-10-2931 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowMedications can cause dementia: Episode 101Dr. Newton wants to educate people on how medications can cause dementia and how to avoid these medications.
The only thing worse than having Dementia is taking care of a loved one with Dementia.
Many people do not realize that a large number of medications can cause dementia.
Dr. Camille Newton is a home visiting physician. You may also know it has a traveling doctor or mobile doctor. It is such an important service for seniors that are not able to travel for doctor’s appointments. She focuses on minimizing medications, especially psychotropic pharmaceuticals to help senior’s brains stay heal...2017-11-2041 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowDocuments we need to have a great retirement: Episode 73I asked Karin to come on the show to talk to us about the documents we need to have a great retirement.
Karin Schumacher has been an attorney since 2001. She is regarded as compassionate, accomplished, and dedicated at Elder Law & Advocacy, Legal Aid Society, and San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program. She has effectively served over 12,000 clients.
She talks about her grandfather who was a very “well to do” business owner. (He owned 3 auto supply stores). At the time he passed away in 1975, he had over ten million dollars. He wanted his children and his grandchildren to receive that. The problem was...2017-05-0831 min
Rock Your Retirement ShowWhy Rock Your Retirement? An FAQ- #000Why Rock your Retirement? A FAQ
Retirement is not just about money.
Why Rock Your Retirement? Hi, I'm Kathe Kline and I've been working with retirees and pre-retirees since 1990. Over the years I've noticed that happiness in retirement had very little to do with how much money you had, (unless you are living in poverty) and had a lot more to do with what you decide to do with your time after you retire. I had clients who had huge houses who were not having a good retirement, and clients who were living in tiny mobile homes who were having the...2016-03-0409 min