The Broker Edge

Fixing Broker Bottlenecks: The Guardian and ThreeFlow partnership

Discover how Guardian and ThreeFlow Connect help brokers quote faster, simplify renewals, and turn better data into better client conversations — without adding work to their day.

 

If You’re Not Discussing Paid Leave with Your Clients, Someone Else Is

As a broker, you may see paid leave as a mandate‑only issue or assume state plans are enough. In this episode, we unpack why that thinking can limit growth — and how paid leave helps you start stronger absence conversations as client and employee expectations evolve.

Winning the Finalist Meeting: How brokers and carriers succeed together

This episode zeroes in on the pivotal role of the finalist meeting. The discussion explores how the outcome of these meetings can significantly influence a client’s decision-making process, often determining whether a broker secures or loses new business.

 

Rising Dental Care Costs: Broker strategies for retention and growth

Rising dental care costs are putting pressure on employers. Learn how brokers can use smart plan design and clear messaging to retain clients and drive growth.

EDI to API — Best practice scenarios that reduce work

This episode makes ben tech practical through real broker–client scenarios. We break down when APIs matter, where EDI still fits, and how brokers can guide clients toward the right ben admin and HCM setup. You’ll also hear best practices from finalist meetings and a consultative playbook brokers can use right away.

 

The Retailification of Employee Benefits

The rise of gig work, solopreneurs, and digital platforms is driving a shift toward retail-style benefits offerings. Rick Porterfield explores how brokers can tap into new markets, including non-traditional workers and platform users, by leveraging retail products and alternative distribution channels. Learn how to create value for clients in a world where benefits are increasingly direct-to-consumer.

The broker’s guide to successfully selling supplemental health

Explore how supplemental health products strengthen broker portfolios. This episode covers bundling strategies, member experience improvements, pricing trends, carrier partnerships, and practical ways to position supplemental health as a value‑driven benefits solution in a competitive market. 

The AI Advantage: Future-proofing your brokerage practice

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the insurance and benefits industry. Rick Porterfield discusses the latest innovations, from agentic AI to care navigation, and what brokers need to know to stay ahead. This episode explores how AI is impacting client service, plan design, and even the structure of employment itself, offering actionable strategies for brokers to adapt and thrive.

Hospital Indemnity, Reimagined

Guardian’s new hospital indemnity offering goes beyond coverage — supporting fertility health, caregiving, mental health, and more. Brokers, here’s how to position this holistic solution for today’s workforce. 

Breaking Through: Achieving early career wins for brokers and carrier rep

Want to thrive as a benefits broker? Learn how top performers build lasting success through client-first thinking, strong carrier relationships, and bold growth moves. Guardian’s top sales rep shares practical tips and inspiration for new brokers and mentors alike.