How to Think Like an Underwriter (And Why It's a Game-Changer) | with Bobby Stuart

"Understanding how an underwriter thinks and how they manage risk allows you to create a solution that actually creates impact and change for the long term." - Bobby Stuart This week on the show, I'm joined by Bobby Stuart, a benefits consultant with Hotchkiss Insurance, for a deep dive into the mindset of a modern, forward-thinking advisor. We discuss his journey into the industry and what it takes to guide employers through the complexities of self-funding. Bobby also broke down his playbook for creating long-term value for his clients. We explore why learning to "think like an underwriter" is a crucial skill for managing risk, the importance of simplifying complex ideas for employers, and why mastering the industry's language is the first step to finding simple solutions. We also discuss how these strategies translate into real-world results, including how Bobby's team uses direct contracts and early intervention to help members get high-cost cancer care for free, removing the financial burden so they can focus on their health. Chapters: (00:00:00) How To Think Like An Underwriter (And Why It’s A Game-Changer) (00:04:03) Overcoming the Complexity of Self-Funding (00:04:59) Learning to Speak the Language of Insurance (00:08:49) The Power of Thinking Like an Underwriter (00:18:48) How To Stay Optimistic As A Benefits Consultant Key Links for Social: @SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFunded Listen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02 Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286 Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/ Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/