Meet Lauren Vandlen

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Vandlen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?

One example is, prescription drug coverage is often overlooked. Every insurance plan has its own formulary, which is essentially a list of the generic and brand-name drugs that the plan covers. Since prices and coverage can vary significantly between plans, it’s important to review your specific prescriptions to make sure you’re getting the best pricing and coverage.

This is where working with a knowledgeable agent becomes essential. Agents understand the complexities of healthcare plans and can ask the right questions to help ensure individuals get the best coverage for their unique needs.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I always imagined I’d become an elementary school teacher, so I pursued higher education with that goal in mind. However, I soon realized that being in a classroom with young kids wasn’t quite the right fit for me. Ironically, a career in insurance wasn’t on my radar either. My journey into health insurance happened quite unexpectedly. During a friend’s 40th birthday trip to Jamaica, I met her friend who worked in health insurance, and she thought I’d be a great fit for an opening at her agency.

At that time, I was working a job that fit around my children’s school schedules. As they transitioned to full-time school, I was ready for a full-time professional opportunity, and this position in health insurance was the perfect match.

Now, I’m part of the BeneGuides Health Insurance team as a Medicare Enrollment Guide. My role is to help people navigate Medicare, focusing on educating them so they can make informed decisions about their healthcare. It’s a role that suits my background and skills really well.

I’m proud of the work we do. We’re dedicated to serving our clients and finding the best solutions for them. What sets us apart is our commitment to being with our clients every step of the way—gathering information, researching and reviewing plan options, assisting with sign-ups, advocating for them afterward, and providing detailed annual reviews during open enrollment. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’m able to ease the stress of what can often be a complicated process.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting the Lansing for a week, I’d make sure we had a blast together! We’d definitely start by exploring Old Town and ReoTown—there are so many great shops and delicious places to eat.

One day, we’d visit Michigan State University’s campus and grab some ice cream at the Dairy Store. If it’s football season, catching a Spartans game would be a must—there’s nothing like the energy of game day. Go Green!

We’d also have to check out a Lansing Lugnuts game for some afternoon fun and then enjoy dinner on the patio at LBC. Another highlight would be spending time at Horrock’s, where we’d explore their eclectic selections and hopefully catch some live music.

I’d definitely want to go kayaking on the Grand River, and for breakfast, we’d hit up either Soup Spoon or The People’s Kitchen—both are fantastic spots.

To round off the week, we’d explore Downtown Lansing’s breweries and distilleries. And, of course, I’d set aside one evening to just relax on my patio with my family and our awesome neighbors. That’s where the best conversations and memories happen!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I feel very fortunate to have had successful role models throughout my life. Growing up, I watched my parents and extended family pursue higher education and build successful careers, which set a great example for me. I knew I wanted that same success, and I was determined to make it happen.

Fast forward more than 20 years, and I can truly say I have them to thank for my achievements. I earned my bachelor’s degree and have pursued various roles and experiences that have significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. The mentorship and opportunities I’ve encountered in my work have been instrumental in challenging me to learn, stretch my abilities, and step outside my comfort zone.

The people you surround yourself with are essential to your growth, and I’m incredibly grateful for the “village” that has helped shape me into the person I am today.

Website: www.beneguides.com

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-vandlen-7130a424b

Image Credits
Sarrah Gani