About Us

With 15 years in the insurance industry, I’ve had the privilege of helping more than 2000 clients navigate the often overwhelming world of healthcare coverage. I believe in taking the time to truly understand each person’s unique situation—so they feel informed, confident, and supported every step of the way.

I’ve built my career on trust, empathy, and deep knowledge of the insurance landscape. It means so much to me when clients describe me not just as their agent, but as their advocate—someone who genuinely cares.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about giving back. I regularly organize events for local senior centers, volunteer with nonprofits, and serve on the board of a local veterans organization. I’m also the proud founder of 100 Women Who Care of Williamson County and _Girls Night In 4 A Cause_—both focused on bringing women together to make a positive impact in our community.

Over the years, I’ve been honored to receive several awards for service and sales, but what means the most is the lasting relationships I’ve built. For me, this work is personal—and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to support my clients and contribute to the community I love.

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With more than 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, I specialize in helping people navigate the often-confusing world of Medicare. I work with both individuals and corporations to simplify the decision-making process, ensuring that each client understands their options and makes confident, informed choices. 

Over the decades, I’ve guided thousands of seniors, caregivers, and employees approaching retirement through what can feel like a maze of Medicare rules, plans, and benefits. My approach is hands-on, educational, and community-focused — building trust by taking the time to answer questions, clarify details, and provide personalized solutions. 

Whether it’s one-on-one guidance for an individual or supporting employers as they prepare their Medicare-aged employees for retirement, my mission is the same: to make Medicare simple, clear, and accessible. 

On a personal note, I enjoy golf, music, and a good steak. I love to travel and experience new foods and cultures. My faith and my family are the pillars I’ve built my life upon.

Brooke Thurman is an Independent Medicare Advisor with Core Insurance Advisors, specializing exclusively in Medicare insurance needs for the past eight years. She helps individuals and caregivers navigate Medicare with clarity and confidence — whether that means choosing the right plan, understanding benefits, or reviewing coverage to ensure it still meets their needs. With over a decade of prior experience assisting businesses with human resources and insurance, Brooke brings a deep understanding of how to match people with the right solutions for their unique situations. She is especially passionate about guiding clients through the Annual Enrollment Period, when reviewing and updating Medicare plans can make a significant difference in care and cost. A Knoxville native, Brooke is proud to serve the community she calls home. She has been married to her longtime best friend for 20 years and is the proud mother of three children, ages 15, 13, and 10.

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Teja worked in healthcare industry for 15 years as a Diabetes Account Manager, Home Health Care Representative, Business Development Manager for Dental Providers, and Cardiovascular & Nervous System Medical Device Representative. During this time Teja provided the community with free educational seminars and personally made sure diabetes patients wouldn’t have to worry about their glucometers.She provided clinics for Healthy Habits, Balance Clinic, Hypertension & Cholesterol discussions, and Diabetic Bingo and has volunteered at Assisted Living facilities in East TN.

Teja was also a liaison between a mail order pharmacy and 400 insurance agents in TN, KY, and VA, providing information to each agent on how to keep their clients informed of the changes in diabetes coverage. During that time, the bug to provide services to seniors was planted and about 7 years later, an opportunity arose to realize a quiet dream she’s had for all these years.

Having such varied background allows Teja to intimately understand some of the special needs of seniors, which ultimately helps her provide extra assistance to her clients. And that is what her ultimate goal is – do the best she can to help those in need of insurance coverage.

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Heather brings a welcomed base of knowledge with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Through the course of her career, Heather has had the opportunity to work with many individuals and is dedicated to personal service. Through these experiences, Heather has built essential, trusting relationships and she is excited to continue providing exceptional care and advice as she helps her customers in East Tennessee understand all their options in meeting their insurance needs.

Heather has enjoyed participating in area health fairs and educational seminars at local senior centers and getting to know individuals in the community. Her goal is to meet the specific needs of her customers and be a valuable resource in the decision making process in choosing the best health care coverage.

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George has 16 years of customer service experience. He has built his reputation as a “Customer First” solution builder, using his knowledge to ensure customers have the right solution for their needs. His experience in working with small businesses and individuals over the years has given him invaluable knowledge for problem-solving in unique situations. This has helped him build trusting relationships with people from all walks of life while also helping them understand their products and being there with answers when they need him.

When serving his clients, George focuses on getting the best solutions to fit his customers’ needs and ensure they understand all that their plan entails.

He has been avid in helping his community through different kinds of disasters throughout the southeast and loves helping others. He will continue to take time to care for and understand the needs of others.

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Jennifer has been helping clients meet their healthcare needs for 20 years. As a second-generation sales representative, her mother instilled in her to treat clients with dignity and respect. Therefore, fostering an exceptional customer experience is her priority. She runs a marathon to provide clients and prospects with the education and knowledge needed to make informed decision regarding their
healthcare needs. Jennifer takes a personal approach to every aspect of supporting clients from assessing needs to the final decision.

Currently, she is licensed in three states (MS, TN, and AR). Within the industry, Jennifer has shown her passion and grit by conducting one-on-ones with clients, community outreach events, and conducting seminars all to help customers understand their healthcare options.

Jennifer can be summed up with two words, resourceful and relentless.

Ralph is a highly experienced insurance professional with over 30 years of experience in the Medicare industry. He and his wife, Melissa, grew up in East Tennessee and have deep roots in the community. Ralph began his professional career 1986 in the financial services industry and later transitioned to the insurance industry in 2006. Since then, he has been helping clients navigate the complex world of Medicare and various Medicare plans.

Ralph’s extensive experience has given him a deep understanding of the nuances of Medicare. He is well-equipped to help clients choose the best plan for their needs. Ralph understands that choosing the right Medicare plan can be daunting, filled with questions, paperwork, and pitfalls. He is committed to helping his clients easily navigate this process, ensuring they are fully informed and confident in their decisions.

Overall, Ralph is a dedicated and experienced insurance professional passionate about helping his clients make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. If you are looking for guidance and support with your Medicare plan, Ralph is the right person to turn to.

Tina is a seasoned customer service professional with over 20 years of experience in the field. Her passion for helping others and making their lives better is unparalleled. With a background in the Army, Tina knows what it means to go above and beyond to serve others.

Tina’s expertise lies in conducting calculated needs assessments that ensure an educational guarantee. She has helped countless individuals and families choose the right health plan for their needs, leaving them confident, prepared, and satisfied.

Tina is licensed in 29 states and is always ready to help you navigate your next season of life. Her dedication and commitment to her clients are unmatched, making her a reliable resource you can always count on.

Cedric Gumm, is an insurance professional with over 22 years of experience. Over his career he has used his knowledge and expertise to help countless individuals navigate the complex world of insurance. He has established himself as a valuable resource in the local community. 

Beyond his professional success, Cedric is a proud father of three who enjoys many athletic pursuits. He is passionate about basketball and coaches a successful high school basketball team.

With over a decade of experience in customer service and specializing in Medicare for 2 years, Amanda has a strong foundation in understanding clients’ needs. Her genuine love for helping people and building meaningful relationships sets her apart.

Amanda is a proud wife and mother of three beautiful children. She spends her spare time playing trivia, doing puzzles, and tackling mountains of laundry.

As a member of the Core Insurance Advisors team, you can count on Amanda Kemp to be your trusted advisor, guiding you through the complex world of insurance with care and expertise.

Paige is a compassionate and knowledgeable insurance agent, helping Medicare recipients with their healthcare choices for over five years. With a decade of experience in customer service before becoming a licensed insurance agent, Paige brings a unique set of skills to the table. She is passionate about helping people navigate the maze of Medicare and finding solutions for a healthier tomorrow.

Paige is a proud native of Knoxville and is happily married. She recently became a devoted new mother and cherishes spending time with her family. When she’s not helping customers, you can find her enjoying the outdoors or exploring new places around her community.

Jolene is a highly experienced professional with a proven track record of helping seniors navigate significant life decisions. With over two decades of experience in the real estate industry, Jolene has developed a reputation for her exceptional problem-solving skills, unwavering commitment to meeting her clients’ goals, and remarkable attention to detail. Her honesty and transparency are second to none, and her clients always appreciate her straightforward approach. Jolene is passionate about helping people and truly cares about everyone she works with.

She enjoys spending time with her four-legged children and family and traveling in her free time. If you need help making an important life decision, Jolene is the confident, capable professional you can count on to guide you every step of the way.

Pamela is a highly experienced professional in the Medicare insurance industry with over 15 years of experience. She has a unique background as a former teacher, which has allowed her to bring a unique perspective to her work in ensuring that people make informed decisions based on their understanding of the entire plan rather than a single benefit.

Pamela is passionate about helping people make the right choices regarding their healthcare coverage. Her dedication to her work is evident in her commitment to ensuring that everyone she works with is fully informed about their options.

When she’s not working, Pamela loves to spend time outdoors. She enjoys hunting rocks, hiking, and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings of Athens, TN. She is also a proud grandmother and loves playing with her adorable grandson.

Pamela’s expertise, passion, and commitment make her an excellent resource for anyone seeking guidance on Medicare insurance coverage.

Meet Steve Hordos, the newest member of the Core Insurance Advisors team! With 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, Steve has built a solid foundation through sales and sales leadership roles at Humana and United Healthcare. His wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field makes him an invaluable asset to Core Insurance Advisors and the clients he serves.

Beyond his professional achievements, Steve is a dedicated family man. Happily married to his wife, Kaila, he takes great pride in being a father to two wonderful boys, Logan and Hudson. Steve cherishes spending quality time with his family, particularly engaging in outdoor activities and sports. We are thrilled to welcome Steve aboard and eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will bring to our team and clients.

You can reach out to Steve at steve@coreinsuranceadvisors.com or give him a call at 203-617-7593.

Gina Kinkaid, a human resources expert with over 30 years of experience, has made it her mission to serve as a trusted advisor. She has observed many individuals’ struggles in understanding their health benefits, especially Medicare, and has dedicated herself to helping people make informed decisions about their Medicare options.

Originally from East Tennessee, Gina’s professional journey commenced as a nurse after graduating from the University of Tennessee. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys tending to her garden, exploring the great outdoors through hiking, and cherishes spending quality time with her family, including her beloved grandson.

With over 13 years of experience in the health insurance industry, Alissa has consistently been recognized as a top-performing agent, earning the title for three consecutive years. Known for her deep knowledge of Medicare and her ability to explain complex information in a way that’s easy to understand, Alissa brings a compassionate, people-first approach to her work.
Before entering the insurance field, Alissa served as a social worker assistant with Tennessee’s Adult Protective Services, where she advocated for the safety and financial well-being of seniors and adults with special needs. This foundation of care and advocacy continues to guide her every day.
Outside of work, Alissa is active in numerous community outreach programs and is a proud supporter of veterans. She also enjoys beekeeping, traveling with her husband, and spending time with her two busy daughters whenever time allows.

Brad joins us in the East Tennessee market after a rewarding career as an agent with Humana. As one would expect, he is well versed in all things Medicare as well as the ACA marketplace.
Prior to working in health insurance, Brad worked in the recruiting, financial services, hospitality, and agriculture sectors.
On a personal note, Brad is an avid outdoorsman—whether it be camping, hiking, kayaking, or playing soccer with his club team. Brad also volunteers at the Young-Williams Animal Shelter and KARM.