Medicare mamas: trailblazing women in the Medicare sector

Shifting gears in our series, I want to highlight some trailblazing women in the Medicare sector of our industry.  With Medicare open enrollment starting next month and significant changes coming in 2025, it’s essential to recognize those working tirelessly to support and educate our older population.

Medicare currently serves over 65 million Americans, with nearly 10,000 baby boomers enrolling daily. As all boomers become eligible by 2030, these numbers will continue to rise, making it more crucial than ever to navigate the evolving landscape. With many changes on the horizon, these women are ensuring that seniors remain informed and confident about their decisions.

These leaders are on the front lines, breaking down the complexities of Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplements and Original Medicare, explaining new preventive care options, and advocating for expanded telehealth services. They work tirelessly to enhance access, affordability, and quality of care for seniors.

As we approach 2025, I’d like to introduce Amanda, Gaylan, and Sylvia — women whose roles are increasingly vital in empowering seniors to make informed choices and advocating for a health care system that meets their needs. They are making a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of Americans.

Amanda Brewton, Medicare Answers Now

“I’ve been in the insurance industry for over 17 years, specializing in Medicare. I run an FMO dedicated to educating agents about how to grow their business and help Medicare-eligible individuals find health solutions that meet their unique needs. Given Medicare’s highly regulated nature, I’ve developed a passion for the legislative and compliance aspects of this business, advocating for both individual agents and the beneficiaries they serve.

I travel across the country speaking on various topics, with this year’s focus on the latest changes to the 2025 Final Rule and the Inflation Reduction Act. I also host two national industry conferences — Medicare & Margaritas and Ms. Medicare — bringing together professionals to share insights and strategies. This year, I took on the role of Content Director and partner for the industry’s largest convention, Medicarians, ensuring it was a valuable and impactful experience for all attendees.”

Gaylan Hendricks, CEO of Senior Security Benefits and Queen of the Bundle, Senior Security Benefits, An Integrity Owned Company

“I’m known as the “Queen of the Bundle.” I started my insurance career in 1985 and have sinceexperienced every aspect of the industry, from commission accounting to designing some of its most innovative products. I was the first woman to create a proprietary health product with Aetna — the cancer, heart attack and stroke plan. This plan grew from under $1 million in annual premiums in 2013 to $2.5 million in a single month in 2024. I also designed products for Manhattan Life Insurance and led a critical lawsuit in 2015 to protect consumer choice in health plans, winning again in appellate court in 2016.

Currently, I serve as President of Ronald McDonald House in Fort Worth, Texas, where I will continue for two more years as President Emeritus. I’m heavily involved in NABIP and other organizations, working to ensure that consumers always have the freedom to choose. I speak at events nationwide, teaching agents how to build effective protection packages for clients. With a deep passion for helping veterans and seniors, who are among the most underserved in our country, I coach agents on delivering the plans we fought to keep in the market. My mission is to advocate for choice and empower both clients and agents.”

Sylvia Gordon, JD, TheMedicareFamily.com

“I founded TheMedicareFamily.com to help retirees navigate their Medicare health care options. On a dare, I started a TikTok account to prove to my teenager that retirees are active on social media, too! What began as a playful challenge quickly turned into something much bigger; now, I have over a million followers across various platforms. Through my content, I provide valuable answers to questions that are often hard to find, especially when it comes to Medicare. 

While I don’t make any money from this, it’s incredibly fulfilling to help others understand their choices. This journey has become a fun and meaningful way for me to give back to the community. I never expected that a simple dare would lead to such a rewarding experience, but it has been a joy to connect with so many people and provide guidance where it’s needed most.”

These stories showcase the incredible achievements of the women in our industry. If you know someone who is making an impact, I’d love to hear her story! Please reach out by emailing scombs@combsandco.com. Let’s join together to celebrate and support these amazing women!