How I Became a Trusted Health Insurance Broker for 1,000+ Families
The first time I read a health insurance policy, I laughed.
“It felt like it was written for aliens,” I told Dennis. “That’s when I realized people need a translator, not a salesman.”
I started my career behind the camera, working on film sets and theater productions in New York. I didn’t plan on becoming a health insurance broker.
But the same skills that made me effective in storytelling—listening, translating, and guiding people through complex decisions—turned out to be exactly what my clients needed most.
Today, I run eHealth20, serve over 1,000 families, and help people navigate U.S. healthcare with plans that actually make sense. Explore our Individual & Family Health Insurance Plans to see what’s available.
From Theater to Insurance
My background is in directing and producing. I studied theater and film, and worked in New York for years before transitioning into insurance.
“It’s all communication. Whether it’s a performance or a policy, people want someone who can walk them through it.”
Understanding character, structure, and decision-making turned out to be more useful than a script. When clients come in overwhelmed by copays, plan codes, and network maps, I explain it in plain terms.
I also share easy-to-understand Insurance Guides & Resources for people who want to learn more at their own pace.
Leaving the Captive Model
I started out as a captive agent—only allowed to sell plans from one company.
“You couldn’t really choose what was best. You were limited to one brand, even if it didn’t make sense for the person.”
That’s why I launched eHealth20, an independent brokerage. Now, I can compare options across carriers and prioritize fit over quotas.
Real Stories From My Clients
These aren’t made-up situations—these are real conversations I’ve had with clients in the video:
1. The Single Mother Who Almost Bought a Worthless Plan
One woman was considering a plan advertised online for $80/month. But the fine print said it would only pay $100 per day in the hospital.
“I told her—if you end up in the ER for one night, you’ll owe thousands. That $80 plan is not a safety net.”
She avoided a financial disaster thanks to a quick phone call with me.
2. The 22-Year Client Who Referred a Georgian Immigrant
One of my longest-standing clients, Irena, referred a Georgian woman who didn’t speak English.
“She didn’t feel comfortable until I explained everything to her in Russian. That’s what makes a difference—someone who can explain, not just sell.”
3. The Immigrant Family Who Thought They Had Medicaid
One family thought they qualified for Medicaid—but they hadn’t filed their taxes correctly and weren’t eligible. I caught the issue during a review.
“They thought they were covered. They weren’t. If they had gone to the doctor, it would’ve been all out-of-pocket.”
A Quick Look Inside My Office
In the video, I walk Dennis through my space:
- Organized documents and state licenses
- Espresso machine for client meetings
- Thank-you cards from clients on my desk
- A setup built for both in-person and Zoom sessions
Why Clients Stick With Me
I don’t advertise. I don’t use call centers or AI bots.
I answer the phone. I help people understand their options. And if their current plan is better than anything new, I tell them to keep it.
“It’s not about selling. It’s about giving people the info they need so they don’t get hurt.”
Some of my clients have been with me for 10 to 20 years. I’ve helped individuals transition to small business owners, and families who now call when their kids turn 26 and need coverage.
I also help many families with Medicare Supplement Plans as they support aging parents.
What Sets eHealth20 Apart
I built my firm on a few clear principles:
- Speak clearly, in your first language—Russian, English, whatever you prefer
- Never push a plan that doesn’t fit your needs
- Respond quickly—no AI bots or phone trees
- Make people comfortable asking questions, no matter how small
Ready to Talk With Someone Who Listens?
If you’re overwhelmed by healthcare choices—or just want to talk to someone who will actually explain what everything means—I can help.
- Licensed in multiple states
- Fluent in Russian
- 20+ years in the field
- Trusted by over 1,000 families
