lance cashion: remote control

Aspirando et Perseverando

Since arriving at Avon Old Farms School in the fall of 1989, a thread runs through my life that links directly back to one of the most unique schools in America. The school's Latin motto; "Aspirando et Perseverando" means "Aspire and Persevere". To a 14 year old boy, it meant very little. However, as a 36 year old man, it's meaning strikes at the core of the human experience.

We each aspire to do better and to be better people than we were yesterday. We should aspire to become better versions of ourselves. We persevere through trials and challenges. Tell me something is impossible and I'll give you examples throughout history where humans have aspired and persevered to achieve the impossible. Think about it next time you board an aircraft, or turn on your computer or seek medical treatment. Someone achieved the impossible for us to be able to enjoy our modern (convenient) lifestyle. 

Try this. Borrow the Latin phrase "Aspirando et Perseverando'. I'm sure that Avon Old Farms School won't mind. Write it down on a Post-it note and place it somewhere obvious and refer to it a few times per day. Write it down in Latin. When you read it aloud in another language, it will leave an imprint on your mind that English cannot. Do this for one week. When you come up against a challenge, read it.

See what happens.

Note: Avon Old Farms School is a prep school for boys located in Avon, CT (about 20 minutes from Hartford).

Visit Lance Cashion at www.lancecashion.com or www.hybridcare.com

Debate 101: Defense vs Deflection (in American Politics)

Today I'm going to discuss some debate basics.  You wish to make a statement (going on the offensive). 

Example: I believe PPACA (Obamacare) is a bad piece of legislation or Kathleen Sebebius is trying to intimidate private insurers.

First, we DO NOT attack the person.  We attack behavior, outcomes, actions, philosophy, and ideas.  There is a proper logical way to debate that garners respect and causes people to think, and an improper way that is negative, hurtful and makes you (and your cause) look foolish.  Many times, when you make statements that attack or question laws, ideals or philosophy, instead of getting a robust defense from your opponent, you are met with a deflection.  Often times, this goes unnoticed and you end up going down the road of defending a non-sequitur.  Meanwhile, your opponent has gone on the offensive.  I would like to point out that this is a tactic widely used by the Left (Liberals).  You must recognize it as a 'tactic'. Once you recognize it, you can call it out and defeat it. (simply)  Do this gently, as most who use this tactic don't realize it's a tactic (albeit easliy defeated).  Plus, by respecting your opponent, you keep your friendship in tact or build a new relationship.  I've won great friends though respectful debate.  I may not agree with them, but who wants to be surrounded by people you agree with all the time?  Boring!  Let's talk about deflection and keep in mind it is NOT a defense in debate.  Here's what it looks like...

Example:

YOU: I believe PPACA (Obamacare) is a bad piece of legislation and here is why (provide evidence to support your statement)

Opponent (reply): Tell me what Bush actually accomplished in 8 years? (Defelction)

See what happened? Let's unpack it;

Your opponent accomplishes two goals by deflecting (if you fall for it);

1. Your opponent avoids making a defense based on your initial statement or assertion. 

2. Your opponent places the burden on you to defend a position you did not take in the first place. 

It's called a deflection.  It draws the focus away from your original statement where your opponent is unable or unwilling to make a defense.

There are ways to avoid this.  First, before you make an assertion/statement, make sure you have evidence to support it.  Second, check your pulse. Make sure you are not emoting (this will backfire).  Third, if the opposition is going to engage, they must defend. Don't get sucked in by a question (the opponent must defend or choose not to engage).  Finally, when your opponent engages in the discussion, make sure you keep the focus on your original statement (provide evidence or re-state your position).

You must be aware at all times.  Logic wins in the end.  Think things through and when things get heated (emotional), call it out and re-focus on your original statement. Keep an eye out for emotionally charged words and statements like (racist, you hate puppies and kittens, etc).  When I see these tactics deployed, I know I have my opponent on an 8 count.  Their defeat is immanent.

Observation, logic and tact are not passive.  You must actively employ them in discussion.  Don't get thrown off course with a awry statement or deflection.

Be gentle in delivery. 

Do you debate?

Thanks

Lance Cashion

Defeat 'Them' on Nov 2nd

 

Learning Perseverance from a Toddler

If we could only persevere like my 17 month old son! Over the last year and seven months, I have become very observant. I've watched this little boy go from the process of not being able to move from one place to his current activity of running through the house.

For several weeks, Nelson (our son) has been attempting to climb the giant leather ottoman in our family room. I've quietly watched him circle the piece of furniture, get a running start and try to somehow force his way on top. I've seen him try to pull himself up, straining with every ounce of strength until the little veins in his head looked like they were going to pop out, only to topple down to the floor. At first, my wife and I were telling him "no" and trying to pursued him into a different activity. (That was a losing battle).

Last week, I saw him hiking one leg up in the air and using the sofa as leverage to climb on top. He fell between the ottoman and the sofa. Needless to say, he was not happy. I was thinking to myself, "That ottoman is to tall for him. He'll eventually make it, but not anytime soon."

Yesterday, I was looking after Nelson in the family room (Kat was out with her mother and sister... leaving us boys at home). He was leaning on the ottoman watching Finding Nemo. I left the room for a moment. When I came back, I saw an amazing event.

I watched and listened as my son grunted and battled his way on to the top of the ottoman. It took him several moments of extreme effort. I quietly sat down on the couch behind him and watched him battle. He reached the summit. He gathered his composure, still huffing and puffing. He steadied himself then turned around, stood up and smiled at me. Mission accomplished!

So often, I find myself wondering about teachable moments for my children. I think to myself that I need to say or do this or that. To my surprise, my toddler provided me with a teachable moment.

If we put in the focus and effort that Nelson used to conquer that ottoman, how would our lives be different?

Imagine your life if doubt did not exist?

There was no doubt in that little boy's mind that he would make it to the top of the ottoman yesterday. He was committed.

He persevered, won and I consider it a lesson.

Thanks Son!

Save by gettng creative with your health insurance

I've taken some time off from the ole blog... I'm back!

As you get older, your premiums are going to increase.  That is the truth.  There is no getting around it.  Don’t panic! 

Get creative! 

For instance, I had a 35 yr old young lady who is opening her own business and needed insurance (she was being dropped from her group and COBRA was too expensive).  Her budget was around $130 per month.   That can be a tough one.  The key is to get her on something to cover catastrophic events for a year or two, while she’s building her business.  Keeping in mind that her situation will eventually change and she’ll have a bigger budget for her health insurance. 

The plan of action:
1. We start looking at high deductible HSA (Health Savings Account qualified) plans
2. We hedge against accident with a $5000 Accident Benefit for $29.95/mo
3. We address her desire for physician consultations with a free CallMD benefit (included with the Accident Benefit)
4. We agree that a $5000 (100%) HSA is what she needs for now at $109.00/mo

The result is a hybrid of Health Insurance and essential risk hedges that provide security and protect against catastrophic health events that could jeopardize her finances.  I'm willing to bet that when she does have the extra budget for health insurance, she won't use it.  Why would she?  She got a solid plan to begin with ;)

Budget Target: $130/mo
Cost: $138.95/mo
Benefit: $5 Million in coverage, $5000 accident benefit, CallMD, $5000 Max out of pocket for illness, $250 out of pocket for Accident ($250 deductible on benefit).

We got within $8.95 of her budget and other agents were quoting her $250-$300!  How can a new small business owner with a budget of around $130/mo survive and thrive with premiums eating her budget.  I’ll tell you what happens with most folks, they end up dropping their health coverage to meet payroll, pay a vendor or deal with an emergency.  That is dangerous and there is NO need for it when you get creative! 

Lesson over for today!

Thanks for reading

Lance Cashion

Question Day: Tuesday July 27

Today is Question Day!

Every day, I get several emails, calls and messages from folks with various insurance questions. So, I've decided to dedicate a day to giving you answers to your questions. My goal is to build a reliable reference for the people I serve without sales pressure.

I will prove that I provide the BEST customer service in the insurance industry!  Even if you are not a customer, I'll treat you like one.

We're going to keep this simple. You can ask your questions the following ways:

1. Comment Below

2. Email Me

If you have questions that must be held in confidence (ie. pre-existing conditions, health history, etc), please email me. By law, I cannot share information given by clients without permission.

Here are the areas I'll be covering this week:

-Individual Health Insurance

-HSAs

-Term Life

-Medicare Supplements

Let's see how this works out.

Thanks in advance for being a part of the process!

What is your question?

Intel: Your Personal Brand (Article Linked)

After reading the Inc. article, I decided to write about it...

 When most people think “brand”, images of Apple, Google and Nike usually come to mind.  However, we must recognize the importance and power of the faces, values and personalities that are brands in and of themselves. Think about the personal brands of Dave Ramsey, Billy Graham, Steve Jobs, The Grateful Dead. Donald Trump and Prince.  These are strong brands.  You know them.  You know what they do.

I learned the importance of the personal brand several years ago when I was building a brand around my music career as a DJ and producer.  Over the years, dedicated fans, music enthusiasts and potential customers would see (or hear) my name or my company name (Slow Motion Music) on print ad, flyers, message boards, radio, or word-of-mouth and know that the event, record or product was of the highest quality possible. I held myself and the people I chose to work with to the highest standards possible.  After four years of hard work, our brand was the standard on which all others were measured in Austin, Texas.

Today, technology has given each of us an opportunity to brand ourselves and our products cheaply and effectively.  You must leverage these powerful tools and communication platforms to build your brand. 

Below is an article from Inc. Magazine entitled; How to Build Your Personal Brand- With traditional publicity vehicles and the Web’s resources at hand, making a name for yourself is easier than ever. Author: April Joyner

Article Link Here

This article is packed full of useful information and links of further research.  I highly suggest you read it, digest it and implement some of the strategies.  I have published an article about defending your brand here.
 
Keep on, keepin’ on

Lance Cashion
American Health Underwriters

Advice for the head-honcho : Serving your people

As many of you may have figured out.  I am a Seth Godin fan.  I enjoy reading his insights, several of which I apply to my work.  Below is his blog entry from May, 15th 2010.  As a team leader, I must remain focused on the needs of my team.  In order for me to succeed, I must work to provide them with every tool, technology, and support possible to accomplish their goals.  Without them, I am just a dude behind a desk with a vision.   Without my team, I have no one to share my vision with and that vision will not become reality.  It’s always healthy to get a gentle reminder… Thanks Seth!  Servant Leadership is the way WE all want to be lead.  And the post below speaks to that imo.

Who do you work for? (And who works for you?)

"I always took the position that my boss (when I had a job) worked for me. My job was to do the thing I was hired to do, and my boss had assets that could help me do the job better. His job, then, was to figure out how best give me access to the people, systems and resources that would allow me to do my job the best possible way".  Read more here... (Seth's Blog)

Enjoy and see you again soon!

Lance Cashion

American Health Underwriters

The Hybrid Health Plan of Tomorrow (post-Obamacare)

I was just running some quotes for a client.  We all know that we're going to see some huge rate increases in the next 6 months (Obamacare).  That does not stop folks from needing health insurance.  As an agent, I am responsible for directing this process for my clients.  They depend on my to make the right decision for them.  The choice that makes sense and will protect & provide for them in a time of need.

Here is what I came up with for a 45 year old female in Texas (good health).  She is currently paying $350 and its going to increase over $400 in June.

• HSA Plan 75/25: $2500 Deductible = $192/mo
• SBA $5000 Accident Coverage = $29.95/mo
• $20,000 Lump Sum: Critical Illness/Long Term Disability/Life Benefit = $30/mo

Total: $251.95

I just saved her $149 per month and provided better coverage.  Not to mention, I served her need by protecting her on all fronts for a fraction of her current premium.  When rates increase in 6 months, she'll be better positioned to absorb the blow.

There you have it!  The method of insuring for the PO (Post-Obamacare) world. It is a hybrid combination of several products that provide protection and security.  I've been doing this for years... It was always one of many options... Tomorrow, it may be THE ONLY option.

It is just a matter of time before we start seeing $20K and $50K deductible health plans hit the market... you hear it here first.

Holler if you need help with this stuff!  If you are interested in work with a team dedicated to helping people with this stuff, holler.

Lance Cashion

American Health Underwriters

Intel: Lessons from MassCare and What We Can Expect

Well, it’s been nearly a month since my last blog entry.  I’ve been working with my team on the task of repositioning our organization in light of Healthcare Reform Legislation.  That said, I have posted an article below by Mark Gaunya who is the president of the Massachusetts Association of Health Underwriters (MAHU).He provides solid insight into what we can expect from Obamacare.

I think this quote from Mark sums it up; “Health Insurance is expensive because health CARE is expensive”.  The article explains that Obamacare is focused on symptoms of rising costs, not the disease.  Furthermore, I submit that this legislation misses the mark completely.  The question begs to be asked…  Is Healthcare Reform REALLY about lower costs OR is HealthCare Reform just an expansion of bureaucracy and Government power. Read more on Bureaucracy here.

Decide for yourself!

Article Link: Download Be Careful what you wish for, America-INN article.

The original article is from Insurance News Net Magazine

http://www.insurancenewsnetmagazine.com

Have a good day.

Lance Cashion

American Health Underwriters

Intel: Health Insurance Premiums Increasing in Six Months

Now is the time to purchase health insurance. 

Below is some information based on my research and some ideas that can help you and your family navigate this environment.

As you are well aware, on Sunday March 21, 2010 The United States Congress passed the Healthcare Reform Bill.  We are seeing positive effects of the legislation within the market.

In the short-term (6 months), we see a major catalyst on the horizon that our agents, current policyholders and prospective clients need to know about.  Individual Health Premiums are going to increase significantly in 6 months.  Some major factors for this increase include; the first wave of guarantee issue applicants joining current risk pools (children with pre-existing conditions), elimination of policy lifetime maximum amounts, and the requirement that all policies cover preventative care.  For families with children with pre-existing conditions, this portion of the legislation is a good idea.

What can you do, as the consumer to be proactive?

-Act with a sense of URGENCY! It is time to buy a health insurance plan that you and your family can stay on for several years without feeling the effects of these major increases.

-Buy Major Medical Plans and HSAs that have 24-36 month Rate Guarantees (for additional premium, you can lock your rate for up to 3 years)  Note: I have one insurer that offers an HSA with a 4 year fixed rate!

-Look at this as getting a discount on your health insurance.  Six months from now will be too late.

-If you have a child with a Pre-existing condition.  You may want move the rest of the family to a new plan now and leave the one child on your current plan.  The goal is to move your child with pre-ex to a guaranteed issue plan in 6 months.  This will save you money in the long run.

-Consider the HSA!  If you don't know about it, research it or ask me.

As you can see, actively engaging this process is the only way to go!  Hopefully this information is helpful.

Thanks

Lance Cashion

email here