In this episode of the Insurtech Building Blocs podcast, host Cory Schmidt welcomes Bill Hepscher, founder of the Canadian Medstore. They discuss Bill's unique journey into the healthcare industry, the challenges of navigating prescription drug costs, and the logistics of importing medications from countries like Canada.

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

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In this episode of the Insurtech Building Blocs podcast, host Cory Schmidt speaks with Sam Melamed about the evolution of Insurance-Forums.com, the importance of community in the insurance industry, and Sam's journey from agent to CEO. They discuss the significance of building a caring company culture, market trends in ancillary products, and the necessity of continuous learning in the ever-evolving insurance landscape. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in customer service and the balance between technology and human connection.

Takeaways
- Insurance-Forums.com was crucial for Sam learning and sharing in the industry.
- Community and cooperation are vital for growth in the insurance market.
- Building a caring company culture can lead to better customer retention.
- Continuous learning is essential for success in the insurance industry.
- AI can enhance productivity but should not replace human connection.
- The insurance industry has low barriers to entry, making it accessible.
- Ancillary products are becoming increasingly important for customer retention.
- Understanding market trends is crucial for brokers and agents.
- Customer care should be prioritized to build goodwill and trust.
- Mistakes can lead to growth if handled well.

Chapters
00:00 The Evolution of Insurance Forums
05:54 Sam's Journey in the Insurance Industry
11:54 Building a Caring Company Culture
18:00 Market Trends in Ancillary Products
25:03 The Importance of Continuous Learning
33:46 The Role of AI in Customer Service

Stay Connected:
Learn more about AgencyBloc: https://www.agencybloc.com
Connect with Sam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sammelamed
Learn more about NCD: https://www.ncd.com
Learn more about Insurance Forums: https://www.insurance-forums.com/

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
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In this episode of the Insurtech Building Blocs Podcast, host Cory Schmidt speaks with John Greene from Tri-Branch Resolution about his career in the insurance industry, insights from AgencyBloc's BlocBuilder 2025 conference, and the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act on Medicare. They discuss the challenges faced by agents in the Medicare market, the need for legislative changes, and the importance of political engagement for agents. John emphasizes the need for a more streamlined process for agents and beneficiaries alike, and shares his vision for the future of the Medicare landscape.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Conference Highlights
03:13 John Greene's Career Journey and Entrepreneurial Insights
06:01 State of the Industry: Key Takeaways from BlocBuilder 2025
09:07 Inflation Reduction Act: Impacts on Medicare and Drug Costs
12:06 Challenges in the Medicare Market and Carrier Dynamics
15:12 Legislative Changes and Their Implications for Agents
18:16 Navigating the Medicare Advantage Landscape
21:05 Engagement Strategies for Agents and Brokers
24:09 Future Legislation and Market Trends
26:57 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

Stay Connected:
💻 Learn more about AgencyBloc: https://www.agencybloc.com
🎟️ Learn more about Tri-Branch Resolution: https://www.tri-branch-resolution-llc.com/

#Insurtech #Medicare #inflationreductionact #healthcare #agents #BlocBuilder2025 #insurance #insuranceindustry #healthcarepolicy

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
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In this conversation, Dyani Galligan discusses the complexities of digital marketing for insurance agencies, emphasizing the importance of personal branding, trustworthy partnerships, and engaging content. She highlights the challenges agencies face in navigating digital marketing and the need for education and support. The discussion also touches on consumer expectations in the digital age and the significance of maintaining personal connections in marketing efforts. Dyani advocates for a streamlined approach to marketing tools that enhances agency efficiency and retention strategies that focus on educating clients throughout their journey.

Takeaways
- Agencies often lack control over their digital presence.
- Digital marketing involves tools, content, and know-how.
- Many agencies find digital marketing overwhelming.
- Trustworthy marketing partners are essential for success.
- Personalized content is crucial for engagement.
- Education plays a key role in effective marketing.
- Outdated mindsets hinder digital marketing adoption.
- Consumer expectations have evolved in the digital age.
- Marketing should foster conversations, not just broadcasts.
- Retention strategies must start from the initial client engagement.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:21 Exploring Digital Marketing Challenges
05:05 Understanding Digital Marketing Components
08:02 Building Turnkey Solutions for Agencies
10:56 The Importance of Personal Touch in Marketing
12:29 Consumer Expectations in the Digital Age
17:13 The Role of Agents in a Complicated Space
19:53 Creating Engaging Marketing Strategies
22:52 Vision for Integrated Marketing Solutions
27:42 Retention Strategies for Agencies
34:51 Upcoming Developments at AgencyBloc

Stay Connected:
💻 Learn more about AgencyBloc: https://www.agencybloc.com
🎟️ Register for our Websites Webinar: https://resources.agencybloc.com/agencybloc-websites-webinar

#digitalmarketing  #insuranceagencies #personalbranding #marketingpartnerships #contentcreation  #agencyretention #marketingeducation #marketingtools

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
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In this episode of the Insurtech Building Blocs Podcast, host Cory Schmidt interviews Brett Rosen, a seasoned M&A advisor with Rosen Advisory. They discuss Brett's unique experiences in the deal process, his transition from the buy side to the sell side, and the importance of understanding seller objectives. Brett shares insights on valuation factors, the significance of organized financials, and the typical timeline for selling an agency. The conversation emphasizes the need for sellers to be prepared and the role of relationship building in successful M&A transactions.

Takeaways
- Transitioning from the buy side to the sell side allows for better representation of sellers.
- Understanding seller objectives is crucial for a successful sale.
- Valuation is influenced by the size and stability of the business.
- Organized financials are essential for a smooth selling process.
- The selling timeline typically spans six months.
- Sellers should be prepared for the due diligence process.
- Cultural fit is as important as financial offers in M&A.
- Brett emphasizes the importance of relationship building in M&A.
- He encourages sellers to think about their long-term goals before selling.

Chapters
00:00 The Unexpected Deal: A Ghosting Story
02:45 Brett Rosen's Journey: From Buyer to Seller Advocate
05:33 Navigating the M&A Landscape: The Role of Advisors
08:14 Understanding Seller Objectives: More Than Just Money
11:01 Deal Structures: Earn-Outs and Owner Engagement
13:55 Valuation Factors: What Makes a Business Extraordinary?
18:52 The Exponential Growth of Business Value
20:58 Understanding Business Valuation Factors
24:51 The Importance of Organized Financials
27:39 Mindset Shift: Producer vs. Business Owner
31:09 Navigating the Selling Process
35:53 Future Insights and BlocBuilder 2025 Networking Opportunities

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agencyblocams
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In this episode of Insurtech Building Blocs, Tim Robinson and Cory Schmidt reflect on the past year, discussing AgencyBloc's growth, product development, and the importance of customer feedback. They highlight new features and innovations set for release in 2025, as well as strategies for enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. The conversation emphasizes the company's commitment to continuous improvement and adapting to market trends.

Takeaways
- AgencyBloc has been focusing on product development and customer satisfaction.
- Customer feedback is crucial for product optimization.
- The integration of new features is a priority for AgencyBloc.
- The company is committed to making their products easier to use.
- There is a strong emphasis on understanding customer needs and preferences.
- AgencyBloc is excited about new tools to enhance customer efficiency.
- The team is preparing for significant innovations in 2025.
- Continuous improvement is a core value at AgencyBloc.

Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Reflections on the Holiday Season
02:54 AgencyBloc's Growth and Product Development
05:55 Customer Feedback and Product Improvement
09:00 Innovations in VoIP and Mobile App Development
12:15 New Product Launches and Future Plans
18:00 Website Solutions and Marketing Strategies for Agencies

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agencyblocams
X: https://twitter.com/agencybloc

In this episode of the Insurtech Building Blocs Podcast, hosts Tim Robinson and Cory Schmidt discuss the upcoming AEP and the challenges faced by independent agents in the insurance industry. They are joined by Jason Schmittgens and Andrew Tutaj from ConnectureDRX, who introduce their new product, PlanCompare Edge for Agents, designed to streamline the quoting and enrollment process for individual agents. The conversation covers the need for a unified platform, the response from IMOs and FMOs, and the impact of CMS regulations on the market. The episode concludes with insights on how agents can benefit from the new solution and how to get started.

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
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Join AgencyBloc for a comprehensive discussion on employee benefits with Marcie Strouse, Partner at Capitol Benefits Group (https://capitol-benefits.com).  This episode dives deep into the ever-changing group benefits market, offering valuable insights for businesses of all sizes.

Key Discussion Points:

• Market Dynamics: Explore the impact of carrier consolidation and its implications for employers.
• Navigating Healthcare Costs: Gain insights into managing rising healthcare expenses and understanding drug pricing models.
• Beyond Traditional Options: Discover innovative solutions like level-funded plans, association health plans, and Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs).
• Employee Well-being: Learn how prioritizing mental health benefits and voluntary benefits can enhance your recruitment and retention strategies.
• The Future of Benefits: Get a glimpse into the role of advocacy, technology, and work-life balance in shaping the employee benefits landscape.

This episode is a valuable resource for business owners, HR professionals, and anyone involved in selecting employee benefits.  Gain the knowledge you need to create a competitive benefits package that attracts top talent and fosters a healthy, engaged workforce.

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
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In this episode, Tim Robinson and Cory Schmidt interview Cristin Hopkin-Bishop, COO at The Brokerage Inc. Cristin shares her background, the history of The Brokerage Inc., and the current landscape, shifts, and consolidation in the insurance industry.

The Brokerage Inc. is a family-owned national FMO (Field Marketing Organization), IMO (Independent Marketing Organization), and BGA (Brokerage General Agency) specializing in Life, Health, and Medicare products.

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
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In this episode, Tim Robinson and Cory Schmidt recap the BlocBuilder 2024 conference. BlocBuilder 2024 was a powerful event where AgencyBloc team members, customers, and partners came together in Atlanta for 3 days of leadership meetings, educational sessions, and 1-on-1 meetings.

Insurtech Building Blocs is presented by AgencyBloc, the #1 Recommended Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the benefits and senior market space with 6,500+ customers across multiple solutions within the platform. With a range of insurance-specific solutions for sales enablement, client and policy management, compliance management, quoting and proposals, and commissions management — all with highly recommended customer support — we've got you covered.

Learn more at https://www.agencybloc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agencybloc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/agencybloc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agencybloc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agencyblocams
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