Mike Smith: Is Obamacare the ‘Unaffordable Care Act?’ — Health Policy Podcast

Published May 12, 2026 · Featuring Mike Smith of The Brokerage, Inc.

Mike Smith, President Emeritus at The Brokerage, Inc., discusses the Affordable Care Act's impact on health insurance and the challenges facing the industry tod

Mike Smith, President Emeritus at The Brokerage, Inc., discusses the implications of the Affordable Care Act on healthcare costs and access in a recent episode of the Health Policy Podcast. The conversation covers Medicare reform and the challenges surrounding rising healthcare expenses.

WASHINGTON — May 25, 2026 — Mike Smith, President Emeritus at The Brokerage, Inc., joined the Health Policy Podcast to discuss the Affordable Care Act, its impact on healthcare costs, and access to care. The episode highlights the ongoing challenges in the healthcare system, including the expiration of enhanced premium subsidies and the potential shift toward a national healthcare plan.

Smith emphasized the rising premiums associated with the Affordable Care Act, stating, "When the Affordable Care Act was promoted back in 2008, it was promoted in such a way that it'll be more affordable." He noted that the reality has been quite different, leading to significant premium hikes that have left many Americans struggling to afford coverage. "We almost have to call that the Unaffordable Care Act, because now all of a sudden we're seeing significant premium hikes," he added.

The discussion also touched on the mixed results of the ACA, with some states experiencing unexpected gains in insured populations, while others faced significant losses. Smith highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing these challenges, stating, "If we can't come up with some form of a reasonable, affordable, suitable solution, that we may be staring down the pipe of a national healthcare plan." He acknowledged that while there have been winners in terms of improved access to care, the overall system is under strain.

The Brokerage, Inc. is a marketing organization that connects insurance companies with independent agents to provide health insurance solutions. With over 30 years of experience, the company has adapted to the evolving landscape of healthcare and insurance.

About the Health Policy Podcast

The Health Policy Podcast focuses on energy, infrastructure, policy, and economic growth within the healthcare sector. The show features expert guests discussing pressing issues and developments in health policy.

About The Brokerage, Inc.

The Brokerage, Inc. is a national insurance marketing organization that supports insurance agents and agencies with Medicare, life insurance, annuities, and employee benefits products, along with training, compliance, and back-office support services.

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About the Guest

Mike Smith — President Emeritus

Mike Smith entered the insurance industry in 1993 as a marketing and agent service representative at The Brokerage Inc. and later became president of the company. The Brokerage is licensed in all 50 states and specializes in life, health, financial and senior insurance products, along with marketing services for insurance professionals. Smith oversees the company’s marketing strategy, operations, sales support, business development, website development and public relations efforts.

About the Health Policy Podcast

The Health Policy Podcast hosts conversations on energy, infrastructure, policy and economic growth — interviewing the operators, regulators, and innovators powering America's grid, gas, nuclear, and industrial future. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.