The MIEGI TALK PODCAST

Auto-Renewal Traps, Network Shakeups, and Why ‘Doing Nothing’ Can Cost You

In this episode of MIEGI Talk, Johnny breaks down the real risks of letting your ACA plan roll over without review. From surprise premium spikes and lost tax credits to major hospital systems dropping out of networks overnight, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what’s actually happening behind the scenes during open enrollment.

After the Deadline: What Open Enrollment Looks Like Now

We break down what happens after December 15, what coverage effective dates look like moving forward, and why waiting comes with real consequences. We discuss the ongoing uncertainty around enhanced premium tax credits, why current pricing must be treated as final for 2026, and how higher deductibles are becoming the new normal.
We also cover common post-deadline issues like missed calls, incomplete renewal forms, helper agents reaching out, and how to protect yourself from scams during Open Enrollment. If you’re still undecided, behind, or unsure who to trust, this episode explains exactly what to do next and how to avoid coverage gaps.
Open Enrollment isn’t forgiving. The clock didn’t stop, it just changed pace.

No More Waiting: Your 2026 Enrollment Game Plan

With uncertainty in Washington and significant premium hikes across the marketplace, 2026 requires a smarter enrollment approach. We unpack why enhanced credits likely won’t return in time, how benchmark plans impact your pricing, and why shopping the market every year is essential. Plus, learn about new strategies agents are using—HSAs, gold/bronze pivots, off-exchange plans, and pairing products to lower your total exposure.

Sticker Shock & Smart Strategy: Navigating 2025–2026 Open Enrollment

In this episode of MIEGI Talk, Johnny breaks down the major changes hitting Open Enrollment this year — from disappearing enhanced tax credits to why many families under 400% FPL are suddenly seeing zero subsidies. We compare last year’s premiums to this year’s sticker shock, explain when agents should pivot from Silver into Expanded Bronze and Gold, and discuss how pairing accident or indemnity plans can keep coverage affordable.
Johnny also covers the new CMS compensation disclosure rules, why some quoting tools are confusing agents, and how underwritten zero-deductible options may help clients priced out of the marketplace.
Whether you're with MIEGI or not, this quick breakdown helps brokers stay informed, compliant, and ready for a challenging season.

The Great Health Insurance Reset: Navigating 2026 Price Surges

On this episode of MIEGI Talk, Johnny joins the conversation to unpack one of the biggest shifts we’ve seen in years — major premium hikes and the loss of enhanced tax credits heading into 2026. We break down real examples of how plan costs have more than doubled for families and individuals, and discuss why even subsidized members are feeling the squeeze.
Johnny walks us through practical strategies agents can use to help clients pivot — from expanded bronze and gold plan options to pairing coverage with indemnity products that reduce risk without breaking the bank. Plus, get an inside look at new off-exchange, underwritten plans offering relief for higher-income, healthier families. Whether you’re an agent or consumer, this episode helps make sense of the chaos and shows how to adapt before open enrollment hits full swin

Surviving the Shutdown: Real Talk on Rates, Tax Credits, and the Future of Coverage

If you’re seeing your health plan prices skyrocket for 2026, you’re not alone. In this episode, we explain what’s behind the big shifts in the insurance world, what the government shutdown has to do with it, and how you can still find affordable coverage. From silver to bronze plans—and everything in between—we walk through creative ways to protect your health and your wallet this yea

Protecting the Agents: The Fight Against Commission Cuts

In this episode of MIEGI Talk, Johnny breaks down the alarming trend of carriers slashing agent commissions across both Medicare and ACA markets—and what it really means for consumers. From steering tactics to shrinking pay structures, we explore how these decisions could change the entire health insurance landscape. Learn what you can do as an agent to protect your livelihood, your clients, and your industry by taking your voice to your state representatives, Departments of Insurance, and CMS.

Government Shutdown & Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know

The headlines might sound scary—but open enrollment isn’t shutting down. Johnny from Marketplace Insurance Exchange Group explains what the government shutdown really means for your coverage, subsidies, and tax credits. Learn why it’s more important than ever to stay in touch with your agent, get your plan submitted early, and prepare for possible changes in tax credits later in the season.

Inside the 2025 Government Shutdown: Tax Credits, Healthcare Costs, and What’s at Stake

Johnny shares insights from his recent trip to Washington, D.C. with Health Agents for America. He breaks down the critical discussions on Capitol Hill about expiring enhanced tax credits, why the timeline for action is tighter than most realize, and how a potential 40% increase in premiums could spiral the insurance market if Congress waits too long.
We also dive into the looming government shutdown, the partisan tug-of-war between permanent vs. temporary extensions, and how broader issues like pharmaceutical costs, Medicaid changes, and immigration debates are being folded into the negotiations.
Johnny gives listeners a front-row look at conversations with lawmakers, the real risks if nothing is done, and why both sides secretly want a resolution—if leadership will just let it move forward.
Stay tuned until the end for ways you can get help with your own coverage questions.

Open Enrollment 2025: What You Need to Know!

In this episode, we break down the major changes coming to health insurance for 2025. Join us as Mr. Oz answers key questions about:
When open enrollment begins and the deadlines you need to know
Why Aetna and other carriers are leaving the marketplace
How income verification and $0 premium plan changes will affect you
What members can expect from their agents this season
Why it’s critical to update your information early and not wait until the last minute
From filing your taxes on time to understanding repayment caps, this episode is your go-to guide to avoid surprises and stay covered.