Mike Shipley - Simplifying Medicare for Our Community
Local Expertise. Lasting Relationships.
For many, navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming - filled with complex rules, changing policies, and countless plan options. That’s where local licensed agent Mike Shipley comes in. With a passion for helping others and a deep commitment to building lasting relationships, Mike has made it his mission to simplify Medicare for the people in our community.
Mike grew up in Ohio and earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ohio State before moving to Georgia, where he has lived for the past 21 years. He and his wife, Stacey, make their home in Acworth along with their daughter Shannon, a 6th grader. Stacey works at Grady Memorial Hospital, and together they share the joy of raising a blended family, including Mike’s stepdaughter, Leslieann, who is in her third year at the University of Alabama’s nursing program.
Three years ago, Mike decided to take a leap into the world of Medicare advising. His inspiration was personal - he wanted to be more informed to better support his own parents, who were on Medicare. At the same time, a family friend who worked in the field emphasized the real need for trusted, knowledgeable advisors. “It’s a win-win,” Mike explains. “You’re helping people at a crucial time in their lives while also building a meaningful career.”
Today, Mike works with individuals who are turning 65 as well as those already enrolled in Medicare. His services include consultations on Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, stand-alone prescription drug coverage, and ancillary options such as dental, vision, and hospital indemnity plans. Importantly, there is never a charge for his services. “Even if you’re not a client of mine, don’t hesitate to call,” he says. “I’ll always answer to the best of my ability.”
What sets Mike apart is his personal, local approach. Unlike the distant call centers that focus on quick signups, Mike builds long-term relationships with his clients. “You know that you have someone right here in the community who can meet with you face-to-face and really understand your situation,” he says.
Education is also at the heart of his work. Twice a month, Mike hosts Turning 65 seminars (T65s) at local restaurants, where attendees learn the basics of how Medicare works. He also holds private educational sessions within local communities. These events often make a profound difference. “I’ve had people walk in nearly in tears because they didn’t know where to start,” he recalls. “They always leave feeling calmer and more confident.”
Of course, staying current with Medicare’s yearly changes is one of the greatest challenges of the job. Plans can shift dramatically from year to year, making it essential to know what’s new and what’s ending. This year, the **Annual Enrollment Period—October 15 through December 7—**is especially critical. “There are some significant changes to certain carriers’ plans and even some plan terminations as companies adjust,” Mike notes. “Now is the time for people to review their options.”
When asked what advice he would give residents approaching retirement, Mike encourages them to start early. “Around age 64 to 64½, begin learning how Medicare works,” he says. “There’s a lot of information out there, but it’s not always presented clearly. Getting informed sooner makes the transition so much smoother.”
Mike is proud to serve as a reliable guide for neighbors during this important stage of life. His approachable, knowledgeable style ensures that residents don’t just sign up for a plan—they make confident, informed choices that suit their needs today and in the future.