The Ambitious Agent: Recent Episodes
Charisse
Welcome to the podcast for Agents, Agency owners and businesses owners. Where I give it to you straight with no chaser Bite sized bits of practical information that you can apply today.
In this episode I break down what really changes for Medicare Part D in 2026—how the three coverage phases work now, what the new annual cap means at the pharmacy, how the “smoothing” monthly payment option works, and what to know about Medicare’s first negotiated drug prices (MFPs). I keep it plain-English and action-focused so you can make confident choices during AEP.
What you’ll learn
- The 3 coverage phases in 2026 (deductible → initial coverage → $0 after you hit the annual cap)
- How “smoothing” turns big counter costs into a predictable monthly bill
- Negotiated Maximum Fair Prices (MFPs): what they are and which drugs are affected first
- A simple explanation of True Out-of-Pocket (TrOOP) and why it matters
- How to avoid common surprises (and where to double-check your own plan details)
Links mentioned
• Book a “What Medicare Doesn’t Cover” session: https://calendly.com/churst-2/ltc-facility-solutions-clone
• Download my free guide “10 Medicare Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands”: https://echofc.com/mistakes
John and Barbara thought the hardest part was behind them after John’s stroke and rehab stay. But when he came home, the challenges — and the bills — only grew. Doctor visits, therapy sessions, medications, and unexpected cognitive decline turned into an exhausting routine that pushed Barbara to her breaking point.
This episode uncovers what Medicare Part B really means for retirees:
- How 20% coinsurance on every visit, test, and therapy session adds up with no out-of-pocket maximum
- Why bringing John home wasn’t the relief Barbara hoped for
- The $8,000/month shock when John returned to the nursing home
- How tapping into John’s IRA set off a financial domino effect — higher taxes, doubled Medicare premiums through IRMAA, and even reduced Social Security checks
John and Barbara’s story reveals how one health crisis can ripple through every corner of retirement — from healthcare to taxes to income security.
Listen now to understand how Part B works, and why planning ahead is critical.
If you’d like a copy of my eBook, The top 10 Medicare mistakes and how to avoid them, go to http://echofc.com/mistakes
Episode 2: The Medicare Piece — Part A: The Hospital Piece (and How It Really Handles Long-Term Care)
Most retirees assume Medicare Part A will take care of their hospital bills and rehab costs. But as John and Barbara’s story reveals, the fine print can turn a health crisis into a financial crisis.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why an “observation stay” isn’t the same as an inpatient admission
- The 3-day rule for skilled nursing coverage — and why so many families miss it
- What Medicare really pays for in rehab, and when the bills shift to you
- The real 2025 costs: deductibles, daily copays, and the point where coverage ends
Medicare Part A is essential, but it isn’t a blank check. This episode will give you the clarity you need to protect yourself and your family.
If you’d like a copy of my eBook.
The top 10 Medicare mistakes and how to avoid them, go to http://echofc.com/mistakes
Medicare is one of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning. In this kickoff episode of The Medicare Piece, Charisse Hurst, CIMP, CDP, LTCCP, breaks down the truth about what Medicare really pays for—and just as importantly, what it doesn’t.
You’ll learn:
- The real differences between Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
- Common misconceptions that cost retirees thousands
- What Medicare actually covers for hospital stays, doctor visits, prescriptions, and skilled nursing care
- Why long-term care isn’t included—and how to prepare before a crisis hits
Whether you’re approaching 65, already enrolled, or helping a loved one navigate the system, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and practical steps to avoid costly surprises.
👉Plus, download your free guide “10 Medicare Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands” at http://echofc.com/mistakes
Charisse Hurst exposes the hidden toll caregiving takes on families — long before the money runs out. Learn how the emotional, physical, and career costs of caregiving can spiral — and what financially smart families are doing now to stay in control. If you want to learn mor about us, visit us at echofc.com
Charisse walks you through how long-term care can quietly erase a retirement — and what proactive families are doing now to prepare. You'll hear real financial examples and a fresh way to think about protecting your retirement accounts. You can find us at echofc.com
In this kickoff episode, Charisse shares real stories of families financially blindsided by dementia and introduces the idea of taking action while you're still healthy. You'll learn what hybrid LTC annuities are and why they're becoming the go-to plan for families with a history of Alzheimer's.
When care is needed and no plan is in place, someone you love will step in — not because they’re ready, but because they love you.
But that often means emotional burnout, financial sacrifice, and strained relationships.
In this episode, Charisse Hurst, founder of Echo Consulting, shares powerful real-life stories about families navigating dementia care — and how with the right planning, you can protect your loved one’s future and your family's peace of mind.
Learn why it's so important to create a plan now — and how you can help your loved ones stay connected to you, not become overwhelmed by caregiving.
🎁 Plus, download your free guide: Outsmarting the Cost of Long-Term Care at www.echofc.com/outsmart
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone — we’re here to help you stay calm, connected, and in control.
Hospice care isn’t just for the final days — especially for dementia.
In this powerful episode, Charisse explains what hospice really means under Medicare rules, how to know when it's time, and why hospice can be a support for months — not just days.
Families deserve compassionate care without fear — this episode will give you the answers.
🎁 Access your free dementia care guide: www.echofc.com/outsmart
Home health aides can bring vital support to dementia families — but navigating when and how to bring in help can be confusing.
This week, Charisse shares what home health aides really do, how Medicare coverage works, what questions to ask agencies, and signs it's time to bring in extra help.
🎁 Download your free guide to dementia care planning here: www.echofc.com/outsmart
Adult daycare programs can be a powerful tool for families caring for a loved one with dementia — but many families don't know they exist.
In this episode, Charisse breaks down what adult daycare really offers, how to know when it's time to explore one, what to expect, and what Medicare may or may not cover.
🎁 Don’t forget to grab your free dementia care planning guide: www.echofc.com/outsmart
When you're caring for someone with dementia, knowing the difference between respite care and palliative care can change everything.
In this episode, Charisse explains what each service really means, how they work, what Medicare covers, and when your family might need to consider them.
Clear answers. Practical tips. Real support.
🎁 Download your free guide: www.echofc.com/outsmart
You cannot pour from an empty cup — and caregiver burnout is real.
Today, Charisse shares the early warning signs of burnout, how to recognize when it’s time to ask for help, and simple ways to start building your support system without guilt.
Caring for yourself is caring for them, too.
Download your free dementia care resourceOutsmarting the Cost of Care: www.echofc.com/outsmart
Creating a safer, calmer home doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In this episode, we walk through simple, practical steps to reduce fall risks, ease confusion, and give your loved one a space that feels secure.
Start small — even little changes can protect dignity and bring more peace to your home.
Access your free guide "Outsmarting the Cost of Care": www.echofc.com/outsmart
Series: Staying Calm, Connected, and In Control: Dementia Care Tips That Work
When dementia affects language, communication becomes about more than just words — it’s about connection.
Today, we’ll explore how tone, body language, and warmth become your most important tools, plus easy techniques to reduce frustration and create more peaceful moments.
Small changes can make a big difference for both you and your loved one.
Grab your free dementia care guide here: www.echofc.com/outsmart
Series: Staying Calm, Connected, and In Control: Dementia Care Tips That Work
Dementia caregiving is unlike any other experience — because you’re caring for someone who won’t get better.
In this episode, we talk about the emotional rollercoaster caregivers ride every day: anticipatory grief, sadness, anger, and guilt.
You'll learn simple, compassionate tips to manage these emotions and give yourself the grace you deserve.
Download your free resource guide: www.echofc.com/outsmart
Series: Staying Calm, Connected, and In Control: Dementia Care Tips That Work
Caring for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming—but understanding what to expect can make all the difference. In this first episode, Charisse Hurst, Certified Dementia Planner and founder of Echo Consulting, walks you through the 7 stages of dementia—from early warning signs to the later stages of care.
Whether you're a family member, caregiver, or just beginning this journey, this episode will give you a clear, compassionate overview of what each stage looks like—and how to stay calm, connected, and in control throughout it all.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
· How to recognize early cognitive decline
· What changes to expect in memory, behavior, and function
· Why understanding the stages helps you plan more effectively
· Tips for supporting your loved one while protecting your own well-being
Looking for ways to afford long-term care—without draining your savings?
Grab a copy of Charisse’s free guide:
�� Outsmarting the Cost of Long-Term Care
echofc.com/outsmart
Guys for the next few weeks we will be breaking down long term care insurance and how it works! We will talk about all of the parts in detail as well as some unknown long term care stratagies and tax advantages. I'll catch you on this weeks episode!
During todays episode we will discuss how to know when it is time for a loved one to receive long-term care, and how to decide where that care should be received.
During todays episode we will discuss how to know when it is time for a loved one to receive long-term care, and how to decide where that care should be received.
Today marks the month long series on where will you or your loved one receive care if long term care services are needed. We will start with the place that most people want to receive care, The HOME. We will talk about the cost, where to start, services available and so much more
Long-Term Care. What is it? How much does it cost, and who pays for it? During our bite sized episode today, we will begin the discussion on the Long-Term Care crisis. Over the next few weeks, we will dive deep into LTC, when its needed, and strategies used to pay for it.
Over my 16 years with working with seniors, I have noticed that many are not prepared for retirement and if they need LTC. There are little things that can affect them in big ways that are never talked about, and today, we are going to explore just that.
Over my 16 years with working with seniors, I have noticed that many are not prepared for retirement and if they need LTC. There are little things that can affect them in big ways that are never talked about, and today, we are going to explore just that.
Over my 16 years with working with seniors, I have noticed that many are not prepared for retirement and if they need LTC. There are little things that can affect them in big ways that are never talked about, and today, we are going to explore just that.
Today we will talk about how to overcome your fears when selling Medicare and how to build confidence.
Today we talk about how to help clients findthe plan that is the best fit for them among the many plans that are available in their service area. We make it easy!
During todays epispde, I explain how I have created a 6 figure Medicare business. I reveal some of the tips and tricks that I used and why they are so effective.
Over the years I have learned that most agents do not fully understand how Medicare Advantage benefits work. What that means for me is more business!! It can mean the same for you too!! Listen in as I review how some Medicare Advantage benefits work, and explain how knowing these things can grow and protect your book of business
Today we are giving tips to Medicare aged folks who are searching for new Medicare plan. These tips will ensure you are prepared when sitting with an agent.
I learned the hard way that most new agents will waste. your. time. Listen in as I tell my story and what I've learned.
While you do not need to know every detail of every plan in your area, it is important to know the details of some of them so that you will be more proficient when closing sales and giving presentations.
It is so important to truly understand all of the Medicare benefits that clients are entitled to. But understanding the benefits, how to explain them, and how to use them can help us not only grow our book of business, but maintain it!
Understanding how hospice care, and how it fits in with your clients insuruance and healthcare needs can transform your business
Sometimes it makes sense for someone to stay on their employer insurance, and other times it doesn't. Also there is a lot of misinformation floating around, and it is important to be able to properly explain to someone their options if they plan on working past 65.
Many people fail in the insurance business, not because they do not know their products, but because they have never learned how to properly handle objections. Learn some techniques that will help with learning how to overcome objections.
All of us suffer from anxiety, fear, and nervousness from at some point in our career. We all know that we have to learn to get past those feelings, but how? Today I will share what has worked for me.