Raul Gonzalez, Oscar Ibieta

Medicare Agent IQ

Business EN ↓ 82 episodes

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 insurance agents. They are committed to sharing their wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to help...

Author

Raul Gonzalez, Oscar Ibieta

Category

Business

Latest episode

Jul 7, 2026

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Episodes

Ask These Questions Before Enrolling 07.07.2026

Giving the wrong Medicare enrollment advice can have lasting consequences. In this episode, Raul and Oscar break down the questions every agent should ask before recommending Medicare enrollment. They discuss employer coverage, COBRA, retiree plans, HSAs, Marketplace coverage, and the enrollment rules that can help clients avoid costly mistakes and lifetime penalties.

AEP Prep Starts Now 30.06.2026

AEP is just around there corner! In this episode, we discuss how agents can start preparing now by reviewing industry changes, planning for upcoming carrier updates, completing certifications early, and creating a strategy for the months ahead. We also share our thoughts on commission changes, new CMS rule updates, and the responsibilities agents have to the clients they serve.

What The Industry Might Be Missing 23.06.2026

Robert Davis from Physician's Mutual joins us to discuss the challenges facing today's Medicare Supplement market, why the cheapest plan isn't always the best choice, and how agents can help clients make smarter long-term healthcare decisions. We also explore Innovative Plan G, preventive care benefits, underwriting opportunities, and strategies for building a more diversified insurance business.

Follow-Up Strategies Top Agents Use 22.06.2026

Join us for another episode with Alex Esparza as we break down real-world sales conversations, follow-up strategies, and appointment-setting techniques. Through live role plays, we explore how top agents build trust, handle objections, and guide prospects through the Medicare decision-making process. If you've ever wondered what successful agent conversations sound like, this episode gives you a b...

Building A New Career and Betting on Yourself 09.06.2026

In this episode, special guest Alex Esparza shares his journey into the Medicare industry and what it took to go all in on building his business. We discuss mindset, follow-up strategies, overcoming fear, and the importance of consistency when growing a long-term Medicare career.

Not All Uplines Are Created Equal 02.06.2026

In Part 2 of our upline conversation, we break down what agents should actually look for when choosing an FMO. We discuss training, technology, compliance support, release policies, and why success in this industry requires more than just getting contracted. Choosing the right partner can make all the difference in your business.

What Makes A Good Upline? 19.05.2026

In this episode, we break down what Medicare agents should look for when choosing an FMO or upline. We cover contracts, vesting, release policies, training, carrier access, and the red flags agents should watch out for before partnering with an agency. Choosing the right FMO can have a major impact on your long-term success in the Medicare industry - for better or worse.

Medicare Isn’t a Seasonal Business 12.05.2026

What do you do when it’s not AEP or OEP? In this episode, we break down how to grow your Medicare business year-round. From turning 65 opportunities to special enrollment periods and referral strategies, we cover practical ways to stay busy, build your pipeline, and continue growing your book all year.

Growing Your Book Through Retention and Relationships 05.05.2026

Production gets attention, but retention builds income. In this episode, we talk about why keeping your clients matters more than constantly chasing new ones. From follow-up strategies to simple ways to stay in touch, we break down how strong relationships lead to more renewals, referrals, and long-term success.

Mistakes That Lead to Lifetime Penalties 29.04.2026

Learn when clients should enroll in Medicare and how to avoid late enrollment penalties. In this episode, we cover key Medicare enrollment rules, including employer coverage, VA benefits, COBRA, and common mistakes agents make when advising clients. If you want to confidently guide your clients and avoid common Medicare mistakes, this episode is a must-watch.

We're Back 29.04.2026

After a year and a half, Medicare Agent IQ is back! In this episode, we talk about industry disruption, commission changes, and why there’s still huge opportunity for Medicare agents who stay consistent. We also break down real strategies you can use right now to grow your book of business—even outside of AEP. Perfect for new and experienced Medicare insurance agents looking to stay competitive.

Go All In This AEP 02.10.2024

This week, we break down how to crush it during the Annual Enrollment Period. Get ready to dive into strategies like studying the market inside out, crafting a solid weekly game plan, and scheduling appointments strategically to avoid unnecessary travel. We'll talk about why quick responses to calls, keeping an up-to-date to-do list, and following up can make or break your AEP success. Plus, learn...

What's The Move? Part 4 18.09.2024

In part four of our "What's The Move?" series, we delve into complex Medicare scenarios that agents frequently face. From handling clients whose doctors are dropping their current plans, to explaining the differences between Medicare Advantage, supplements, and Original Medicare in simple terms—this episode covers it all. We also discuss how to ethically manage situations where clients are drawn t...

What's The Move? Part 3 11.09.2024

In this 4th part of our series, "What's The Move?", we tackle pressing questions from the Medicare world. This episode is packed with insights on navigating industry changes and how agents can prioritize client interests over personal gains, even amid fluctuating carrier policies. We discuss the implications of company boycotts, interstate plan transitions, and the intricacies of choosing between...

What's The Move? Part 2 04.09.2024

On this week's episode, we continue exploring real-world scenarios that Medicare agents may face in the field. Building on last week's discussion, we tackle more complex questions about enrollment and client situations, providing clear, actionable advice. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned agent, this episode is filled with practical insights that will help you navigate the challenges o...

What's The Move? 28.08.2024

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 and guidance designed to refine your approach and...

Navigating Medicare: Answering Agent FAQs 2024 Part 2 21.08.2024

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 between plan types effectively, ensuring clients re...

Navigating Medicare: Answering Agent FAQs 2024 14.08.2024

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. Whether you're new to the field or looking to ref...

Finding Your Why: Motivating Yourself for AEP Success 07.08.2024

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 adjusting your goals as circumstances change. Lastl...

Getting Started in Medicare: A Step by Step Guide for New Agents 31.07.2024

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 how to effectively get contracted with carriers....

Real Stories, Real Advice: Lessons from the Field Part 2 24.07.2024

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 after hours, ensuring that no opportunity slips th...

Real Stories, Real Advice: Lessons from the Field 17.07.2024

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 can make or break client relationships and sales op...

Networking Strategies for Medicare Agents 10.07.2024

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 world of peer networking, where connecting with othe...

Three MORE Ways to Make People Like You (Part 2) 03.07.2024

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 about themselves. Next, we discuss how to align conver...

Mastering Client Retention: Strategies for Medicare Success in 2025 26.06.2024

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 significantly enhance retention rates. We also expl...

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