Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Catherine Okubo. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Catherine, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

The biggest difference is that we operate as an alternative to traditional health insurance by promoting health plans based on the HealthSharing model, where it’s all designed to empower the member to take control of their own health. The company and the member both benefit by being healthy which is a very different philosophy from the traditional insurance model.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My professional journey has been anything but conventional, spanning industries as diverse as acting, health insurance, vitamins, and fitness. While these fields may seem unrelated, each experience has enriched my perspective, proving that a diverse background is a powerful asset in business. It allows me to approach challenges from various angles rather than the traditional “business-only” mindset, an essential trait for staying creative and adaptable.

My path to MPB Health was lucky and unexpected—one of those rare moments where everything aligns perfectly. Through a series of incredible coincidences, I had the opportunity to meet Rod Maxson, the visionary founder of MPB Health. At first, I was simply intrigued by his company, but the more I learned, the clearer it became: MPB Health isn’t just another health plan, it’s a revolutionary approach to healthcare.

Much like how Uber disrupted the taxi industry, HealthSharing is redefining the way people access and afford quality healthcare. Traditional insurance models are often rigid, expensive, and filled with limitations that don’t serve the best interests of individuals and families. MPB Health takes a holistic approach, offering a flexible, community-driven alternative health plans that provides comprehensive protection against high medical costs.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey –

Hands down, this is one of the most transformative books for both personal and professional growth. Covey masterfully lays out a philosophy that is not only logical but also deeply practical. Each habit builds upon the previous one, reinforcing the idea that you can’t reach the next level without first mastering the fundamentals. This book has been instrumental in shaping my leadership skills, helping me develop a mindset rooted in effectiveness, accountability, and long-term success.

Talent is Never Enough by John C. Maxwell –

This book is a must-read for anyone with artistic or creative talent who struggles to bridge the gap between passion and practical success. Maxwell brilliantly emphasizes that while talent is an asset, it’s persistence, discipline, and strategic action that truly sets you apart. It’s a motivating and eye-opening read, especially for those looking to turn their gifts into something tangible.

Podcast: Built by Leila Hormozi –

Leila is the perfect blend of sharp businesswoman, humor, and no-nonsense advice. She delivers practical, real-world strategies for scaling a company, with a strong emphasis on hiring, leadership, and company culture. What I love most about her approach is her blunt honesty, she doesn’t sugarcoat anything, and that’s exactly what makes her insights so valuable.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I had to unlearn the misconception that pressure equals progress. In reality, there’s a fine balance when executing large projects, and that balance often shifts depending on deadlines and expectations. However, one thing remains constant: a motivated, enthusiastic team will always outperform a stressed, overburdened one.

Sustained success isn’t about pushing harder, it’s about creating an environment where people are driven by passion rather than pressure. In the long run, building enthusiasm and a shared sense of purpose leads to greater productivity, creativity, and resilience than simply enforcing urgency and stress.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mpb.health/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpb.health/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineok/

Image Credits

Marcio Amaral