Health Insurance Sherpa

About Health Insurance Sherpa

Hi, I’m Lisa Martin, and this is Health Insurance Sherpa. If you’re shopping for an ACA plan, or even just thinking about it, you’ve probably noticed something: the more you look, the more confusing it gets. Maybe you’re comparing several options and trying to figure out how an individual ACA plan stacks up next to an employer plan or COBRA. Maybe Medicare is also on the horizon. Health insurance can feel confusing, expensive, and overwhelming. And if you’ve ever wondered what’s really true, about the old mandate and penalties, pre-existing conditions, deductibles and copays, or what your plan actually covers, you’re definitely not alone. There’s a lot going on behind the scenes that most people never see. And that’s exactly why this podcast exists. For years, I’ve seen how often people are left with more questions than answers. So we’ll talk about what’s changed, what really matters, and the details people commonly miss, details that can make a real difference in your health, your budget, and your peace of mind. So here, we’re going to slow it down and walk through it together. We’ll break down ACA plans in plain English, what’s changed, what matters most, and what you actually need to pay attention to before you enroll. From deductibles and networks to the extra benefits many people don’t even realize they have, we’ll uncover the pieces that can affect how your coverage works for you. My goal is simple: help you feel more confident, more informed, and a lot less in the dark when it’s time to choose a plan. If you’ve ever felt like there’s more to the story, you’re right. Because with health insurance, what you don’t know can cost you, and what you do know can make all the difference. The details matter, and so does having someone you can count on. Subscribe to Health Insurance Sherpa, and let’s get into it.

Publisher

Lisa Martin

Category

business · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Jun 2026

Latest episode

29 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Sept 2026

   ACA News: 760,000 Cancellations and What It Means for Your Open Enrollment

   Headlines this week say hundreds of thousands of people are losing their ACA coverage - but what's really going on? In this episode, Lisa breaks down the CMS announcement canceling about 315,000 enrollments covering roughly 760,000 people so far, over suspected fraud, plus over 400,000 more being asked to re-verify eligibility. You'll learn what's changing for 2027 open enrollment, including a new annual agent authorization starting October 12 and who may need to complete identity verification. Then we flip to what you can control: how enrollment fraud happens, the warning signs to watch for, and a simple five-minute check to make sure your coverage is exactly what you think it is. Open enrollment starts November 1st - how you can get ready now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

2. 

   15 Sept 2026

   Open Enrollment Payoff: 5 Moves That Could Save You Money

   Open enrollment isn't just a deadline - it's your yearly chance to make sure your health coverage is actually working for you. In this episode, Lisa walks through five simple steps that can help you save money and avoid costly surprises, from double-checking your income to making sure your doctor is still in network. Plus, an Arizona-specific look at reduced or even free insulin costs and chronic condition coverage. Whether you're renewing or shopping for the first time, this episode will help you head into open enrollment feeling confident, informed, and ready to make the most of it.

3. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Decoding Medicare AEP: 2027 Part D Changes and What to Do About Them

   Medicare's 2027 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs October 15 through December 7, 2026. This is your window each year to review and change your Medicare coverage for 2027. In this episode of Health Insurance Sherpa, Lisa Martin talks with Medicare Mike about what AEP is, what's changing with Part D drug plans next year (a higher deductible, a new out-of-pocket max, and shifting insurer subsidies), and what to actually do before the window closes - including what to look for in your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). We're in this together, one conversation at a time. Questions? Reach Lisa at 602-852-5215 or lisa@ecafinancial.com, and Mike at (480) 229-3715 or michael@markhamgroupaz.com.

4. 

   1 Sept 2026

   Auto-Renew or Manual Climb? Finishing 2026 Strong and Prepping for Open Enrollment 2027

   Open Enrollment 2027 is coming, and your Sherpa has the map. In this episode, Lisa breaks down exactly what you need to close out 2026 right and walk into 2027 prepared: key dates, new Marketplace verification steps, and why some clients may need to actively re-enroll this year instead of coverage renewing automatically. Whether you're a returning client or applying for the first time, you'll get a clear checklist and a clear plan — because with the right guide, Open Enrollment doesn't have to be complicated. This is the first in a series of Open Enrollment episodes, so stay tuned as more timely updates become available. We'll navigate this together, one conversation at a time!

5. 

   25 Aug 2026

   Short-Term Health Insurance: What It Really Covers (and What It Doesn't)

   Everyone tells you short-term health insurance is "cheap coverage." Almost no one tells you what that price actually buys — or what it quietly leaves out. In this episode, I sit down with Kim Anderson of Black Gould / Warner Pacific to pull back the curtain on short-term plans: what they really cover, where the gaps hide, and why 2026's ACA premium shock has more people asking about them than ever. We get into the pre-existing condition loophole most people don't find out about until they file a claim, and the handful of situations where a short-term plan genuinely makes sense — versus the ones where it could leave you exposed. If you've ever wondered whether "cheaper" health insurance is actually a good deal...this episode is for you.

6. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Life Happens: When You Can Change Your Health Insurance

   Life changes fast—and your health insurance options may change too. In this episode, Lisa breaks down qualifying life events, Special Enrollment Periods, and the key steps to take after a marriage, new baby, move, job change, or loss of coverage.

7. 

   11 Aug 2026

   Small-Business Health Plans With Two Employees: What Arizona Employers Should Know

   In this episode of The Health Insurance Sherpa, Lisa Martin sits down with Chris Keel of Emerson Rogers to talk about group health insurance for Arizona’s small businesses—even businesses with just two employees enrolling. Lisa and Chris walk through two options: traditional fully insured plans and alternative-funding plans. They’ll discuss eligibility, employer contributions, medical underwriting, possible savings, and potential refunds when claims are lower than expected. They’ll also explain a valuable Arizona tax credit that may help eligible businesses reduce the cost of a new group health plan. If you own a small business or work with small-business owners, this conversation will help you understand what questions to ask and where to begin. Keep in mind that eligibility can vary by business structure, employee classification, and carrier guidelines.

8. 

   4 Aug 2026

   Group Health or Medicare? The "20-Employee Rule" and More Explained!

   Should you delay Medicare when you’re still on an employer plan? In this episode, “Medicare Mike” (Mike Markham) explains how employer size—especially whether your workplace has fewer than 20 employees—can change who pays first, your risk for late enrollment penalties, and the best path for timing your Medicare enrollment. You’ll also hear a practical checklist of questions to ask before age 65, including how your group plan affects Part B decisions, HSA contributions, family coverage, deductibles/out-of-pocket costs, provider networks, and IRMAA considerations—so you can make a confident, well-timed move.

9. 

   28 Jul 2026

   ACA Specialty Plans: Diabetes, COPD, and Menopause Too

   In this episode, Lisa Martin and guest Kim Anderson break down Arizona’s 2026 ACA specialty plans for people living with diabetes, COPD, and other ongoing health needs. They’ll explain how some condition-focused plans may include free or lower-cost care for key services and help listeners compare options with confidence.

10. 

    21 Jul 2026

    A Candid Review and Comparison of All 7 of Arizona's ACA Insurance Companies with Guest, Kim Anderson

    Get an exclusive insider look at the Arizona individual health insurance marketplace from a broker's perspective. Lisa is joined by her long-time general agent, Kim Anderson of Black, Gould & Associates. Together, they break down all seven insurance carriers offering Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans in Arizona for the current 2026 enrollment year.

11. 

    14 Jul 2026

    Arizona ACA 2026: Understanding HMO Networks Before You Enroll

    Choosing a health plan isn’t just about the premium - it’s about the network. In this episode, Lisa Martin breaks down how ACA networks work for 2026, with a special focus on Arizona where all marketplace plans are HMOs. You’ll learn why simply recognizing a big insurance company name isn’t enough, how to properly verify if your doctors are in-network, and the exact question you should be asking every provider to avoid unexpected bills. Lisa also walks through key Arizona updates for 2026, including the shift to all HMO plans, differences between major carrier networks, and what to watch for with referrals, medications, and specialist access. Whether you’re in Arizona or anywhere in the U.S., this episode will help you choose smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and feel confident using your coverage. Have questions or need help comparing plans? Visit the provider search tools in the show notes or reach out directly at lisa@ecafinancial.com. Subscribe, share and like, for more clear, practical health insurance guidance from your Health Insurance Sherpa.

12. 

    7 Jul 2026

    Medicare Made Simple: The A, B, C, D’s You Need to Know Before Turning 65

    Turning 65 brings a flood of Medicare decisions, confusing mailers, and important choices that can impact your healthcare for years to come. In this episode of Health Insurance Sherpa, Lisa Martin sits down with longtime Medicare advisor Mike Markham to break down the Medicare maze.Together they explain the basics of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, how Medicare Advantage compares to Medicare Supplements, what happens to your HSA when you enroll, common Medicare myths, enrollment deadlines, and why the decision you make at 65 can have lasting consequences.Whether you’re approaching Medicare age, helping a parent navigate their options, or simply planning ahead, this episode provides the clarity and confidence you need to make informed healthcare decisions.

13. 

    30 Jun 2026

    Stop Guessing: The Health Insurance Terms Everyone Should Understand

    Lisa breaks down the confusing world of health insurance into simple, practical terms anyone can understand. Whether you're shopping for coverage on Healthcare.gov, reviewing your employer benefits, or simply trying to make better healthcare decisions, this episode provides the foundation you need.You'll learn the five core insurance concepts that impact your healthcare costs—premiums, copays, deductibles, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums—as well as essential ACA terminology, enrollment periods, provider networks, subsidies, and cost-sharing reductions.Lisa also explains how formularies, HSAs, prior authorizations, COBRA coverage, and Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) work, helping you become a more informed healthcare consumer. Packed with real-world examples and practical tips, this episode will help you understand not just what health insurance costs, but how to maximize the value of your coverage.

14. 

    16 Jun 2026

    Unlocking the Hidden Wealth in Your HSA

    Are you taking full advantage of your Health Savings Account (HSA)? Whether you have coverage through your employer or an ACA Bronze plan, an HSA could be one of the most powerful financial tools available to you.In this episode, Health Insurance Sherpa Lisa Martin sits down with Jonathan Fagan of Wilde Wealth to explore why financial advisors love HSAs and how individuals and families can use them to save money today while building a tax-advantaged nest egg for the future.Jonathan breaks down the unique "triple tax advantage" of HSAs, explains 2026 contribution limits, and shares strategies for using your HSA as both a healthcare funding tool and a retirement planning asset.In This Episode, You'll Learn:How to determine whether your health plan is HSA eligibleNew 2026 ACA Bronze and Catastrophic plan HSA eligibility rulesCurrent HSA contribution limits and catch-up contributionsWhy HSAs are considered the only triple tax-advantaged accountHow HSA funds can be invested for long-term growthEligible expenses you may not realize qualify for HSA reimbursementCommon mistakes and pitfalls to avoidRecord-keeping best practicesHow HSAs fit into a broader retirement and tax-planning strategy

15. 

    12 Jun 2026

    The Story Behind the Sherpa: My Journey Into Health Insurance

    Welcome to the very first episode of Your Health Insurance Sherpa!In this debut episode, Lisa Martin shares the personal journey that led her into the health insurance industry and the mission behind this podcast. What started as a career leap of faith more than 20 years ago became a calling to help individuals, families, and small business owners navigate one of the most confusing—and important—decisions they face.Lisa is joined by her father, Bob Wernecke, founder of ECA Financial, who reflects on his 40+ years in the insurance industry and the lessons that shaped their family business. Together, they discuss how health insurance has evolved, why guidance matters more than ever, and the real-life stories that demonstrate the value of having the right coverage.Whether you're uninsured, underinsured, self-employed, transitioning between jobs, or simply overwhelmed by your options, this episode is designed to give you confidence and clarity.

16. 

    4 Jun 2026

    Welcome to Health Insurance Sherpa

    A sneak peek at what's ahead...

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.