BIP Summer 2025

Johnson zeroed in on protecting the tax exclusion for employer-sponsored health insurance, noting its massive value and vulnerability. “It’s so, so important,” Johnson said. “The threats started to really percolate over the last year… and we’ve been busy on the advocacy front.” For brokers, the professional takeaway is this: Stay educated on your core issues and ready to speak about them when the moment comes. "Even if the threat doesn’t materialize this spring,” Johnson said, “this is always something to keep in the back of our minds.” 4 Chris Cillizza: Adapt or be forgotten Former CNN political reporter Chris Cillizza delivered an urgent message on the evolution of media and communication: adapt your approach or risk being ignored. “The disaggregation of mainstream media is huge,” he said. “Legacy media used to serve you one plate — like meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans. Now we live are — not just what you sell. — Rachel Strauss “ ” Your superpower is your brand. Use LinkedIn to show people who you really

circles, asking: What are three words you’d use to describe me? What’s my superpower? What do I need to improve? Once you know how others see you, you can begin showing up more clearly online and in person. “Your superpower is your brand,” Strauss said. “Use LinkedIn to show people who you really are — not just what you sell.” 2 Kevin Mayeux: Engagement is the cornerstone of influence In his keynote, the CEO of NAIFA (National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors) emphasized that real leadership in this industry begins with showing up. “Being present, being in the game, being willing to take several days out of your incredibly busy schedules to come up here and advocate for the profession… is the right thing to do,” Mayeux said. He linked active participation to long-term credibility, especially in a time of shifting regulatory authority. “Choosing not to be engaged means you're going to get run over,” Mayeux said. “And we as a larger industry cannot afford to do that.” His message was clear: advocacy is professional development, and every time you speak up for your clients, you're also building your influence. 3 Katy Johnson: Be ready, stay visible As president of the American Benefits Council, Katy Johnson understands the intersection of policy and positioning. Her message to brokers? Stay prepared, even when your issue isn’t center stage.

in Vegas. You can get sushi at 2 a.m. You can get anything, anytime.” The implication for brokers: whether you’re talking to clients, policymakers or peers, how you deliver your message matters. “The power of one person’s voice, unfiltered, is greater than ever,” Cillizza said. His advice: use your platforms, tell your story and don’t wait for permission. 5 Glen Mulready: Be the local authority Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready, a former broker himself, encouraged attendees to own their expertise — not just with clients, but with lawmakers, too. “You know your markets better than CMS does,” he said, referencing federal oversight gaps in Medicare Advantage and special enrollment. “When one of the major health systems goes out of network in Tulsa, maybe CMS sees one hospital. But they don't understand the impact. We do.” His message: brokers and agents are closest to the ground — and often the first to spot where policy needs adjusting. “We're the professionals. We can take care of folks,” he said. “Make sure your lawmakers know that.” Each speaker emphasized the same underlying message: NABIP members are not just intermediaries. You’re educators, connectors, advocates and leaders. And the stronger your voice — online, on the Hill and in your local community — the more impact you have. “Try telling your story,” said Strauss. “Watch what happens.”

TIP: Don’t wait for permission to lead. Whether posting online, talking to clients, or meeting with lawmakers, your voice shapes the future of this industry.

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