Success means different things to different people. For Kathy Blanco, success is measured not by policies sold, but by the people she helps, the relationships she builds, and the impact she creates in her community.
That philosophy has guided Kathy throughout her journey from a young immigrant arriving in the United States from Colombia to becoming co-owner of Blanco Agencies, a trusted insurance brokerage serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout Tampa Bay.
Like many immigrant families, Kathy’s journey was built on sacrifice, perseverance, and hope. Learning a new language and adapting to a new culture taught her resilience and empathy, qualities that continue to shape the way she serves others today.
After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Criminal Justice, Kathy initially envisioned a career with the FBI. Instead, she found her calling in the insurance industry, where she discovered a passion for helping people protect their health, families, and futures.
In 2009, Kathy and her husband, Johan Blanco, founded Blanco Agencies. Together, they built a business centered on education, trust, and service. As their business evolved, they made the strategic decision to become independent brokers, allowing them to offer clients a broader range of healthcare options.
When choosing partners, Florida Blue stood out as a natural fit.
Having been a Florida Blue member for more than a decade, Kathy personally experienced the company’s commitment to its members. That trust eventually led Blanco Agencies to establish a direct relationship with Florida Blue, creating new opportunities to serve the community.
The partnership soon became about much more than business.
Through Florida Blue leaders Drew Pennoyer, Senior Manager of Sales for the West Region, and Stephen Brocato, Senior Director of Business Development, Kathy was invited to participate in a community health insurance education initiative designed to support small businesses, part-time employees, and seasonal workers who often lack access to employer-sponsored health coverage.
During one event, Kathy presented Health Insurance 101 in both English and Spanish to ensure attendees could fully understand their healthcare options and feel comfortable asking questions.
One moment from that event left a lasting impression. A participant shared that neither she nor her family had ever had health insurance. Two days later, Kathy met with her individually to provide education, answer questions, and help her better understand her available options.
For Kathy, that experience represented the heart of her mission.
“It wasn’t about selling insurance,” she explains. “It was about educating people and helping them understand what resources are available.”
That commitment to education aligns closely with Florida Blue’s mission of helping people and communities achieve better health and well-being.
The partnership also led to another meaningful connection. Through Stephen, Kathy was introduced to the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber, opening the door to a vibrant network of entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders.
Through the Chamber, Kathy has participated in networking events, cafecitos, educational programs, and community initiatives that allow her to continue serving as a trusted resource while building meaningful relationships across Tampa Bay.
“What I appreciate most is that both Florida Blue and the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber share a commitment to empowering people through education, connection, and opportunity,” says Kathy.
Today, Kathy serves as a bridge between those organizations and the community. Whether she is working with business owners, families, or individuals exploring healthcare options for the first time, her focus remains the same: helping people make informed decisions that improve their lives.
Although Kathy is proud of her Colombian roots and enjoys assisting Spanish-speaking families, she emphasizes that her mission extends to everyone.
“Healthcare education should be accessible to all,” she says. “Everyone deserves someone willing to listen, guide, and help.”
As Blanco Agencies continues to grow, Kathy remains committed to expanding that impact alongside Johan. Through personalized outreach, educational events, and one-on-one consultations, their team works to ensure individuals and families have access to reliable information and the confidence to make informed healthcare decisions.
Join Us for Health Insurance 101
As part of her ongoing commitment to community education, Kathy Blanco will be leading an upcoming Health Insurance 101 educational session in partnership with the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber.
The event is designed for individuals, families, entrepreneurs, part-time employees, and small business owners who want to better understand health insurance, enrollment options, coverage basics, and available resources.
Date: November 12, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Entrepreneur Collaborative Center
RSVP: Registration Link
Those who are unable to attend are encouraged to connect with Kathy and her team for personalized one-on-one educational consultations and informational support.
For Kathy Blanco, insurance is simply the vehicle. Building healthier, stronger, and more connected communities is the destination.
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