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Agent Survival Guide Podcast | ASG Podcast

Agent Survival Guide Podcast | ASG Podcast
Author: Sarah J. Rueppel | Ritter Insurance Marketing
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Description
Bringing insurance agents tips and strategies for making sales, staying compliant, marketing yourself, getting leads, and more. Think of the ASG Podcast as your go-to resource for insight, information, and the inspiration needed to take the next step on your journey.
Whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned pro, the Agent Survival Guide Podcast has got you covered.
Empowering insurance agents selling Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, ACA, Long and Short-Term Care, Life, Annuities, and Final Expense.
Powered by Ritter Insurance Marketing, an Integrity Company.
Whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned pro, the Agent Survival Guide Podcast has got you covered.
Empowering insurance agents selling Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, ACA, Long and Short-Term Care, Life, Annuities, and Final Expense.
Powered by Ritter Insurance Marketing, an Integrity Company.
365 Episodes
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We illustrate 5 life insurance myths and why your clients may believe them. Learn how to counter these objections so your clients can better understand the life product and you can make the sale!
Read the text version
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
4 Tips for Making a Better Insurance Sales Pitch
A Quick Guide to Understanding Universal Life Insurance
How to Make the Most of Life Insurance Awareness Month
Identifying Ideal Clients for Universal Life Products
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
What to Do If Your Clients Can No Longer Afford Their Permanent Life Insurance Premiums
When to Recommend Life Insurance Based on Its Tax Advantages
References:
“2024 Life Insurance Fact Sheet.” LIMRA.Com, LIMRA, www.limra.com/siteassets/newsroom/fact-tank/fact-sheets/2024-life-insurance-fact-sheet.pdf. Accessed 8 Sept. 2025.
“2025 Facts About Life Insurance.” LIMRA.Com, LIMRA, www.limra.com/siteassets/newsroom/liam/2025/2025_facts_about_life_insurance.pdf. Accessed 8 Sept. 2025.
“Ensuring a Protected Tomorrow with Life Insurance.” LIMRA.Com, LIMRA, www.limra.com/en/research/research-abstracts-public/2025/2025-insurance-barometer-study/ensuring-a-protected-tomorrow-with-life-insurance-partial-infographic/. Accessed 8 Sept. 2025.
“Modernizing Life Insurance.” LIMRA.Com, LIMRA, www.limra.com/en/research/research-abstracts-public/2024/2024-insurance-barometer-study/. Accessed 8 Sept. 2025.
“The Diner Dispatch: 2023 American Dining Habits.” Usfoods.Com, US Foods, www.usfoods.com/our-services/business-trends/american-dining-out-habits-2023.html. Accessed 8 Sept. 2025.
“The Diner Dispatch: 2024 American Dining Habits.” Usfoods.Com, US Foods, www.usfoods.com/our-services/business-trends/american-dining-out-habits-2024.html. Accessed 8 Sept. 2025.
Wood, Stephen, and Maggie Leyes. “2025 Insurance Barometer Study.” LIMRA.Com, LIMRA, 25 June 2025, www.limra.com/en/research/research-abstracts-public/2025/2025-insurance-barometer-study/.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
The Friday Five for September 26, 2025:
AEP Countdown & Ritter Resources
New D-SNP Client Resources
Hacking Your Social Media Algorithm
iOS 26 Updates to Apple CarPlay
The Fight for ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Ritter Resources:
Connect with Your Sales Rep
Download eBooks and Guides
Read the Ritter Blog
Register for Events and Webinars
Surviving AEP
New D-SNP Client Resources:
D-SNP Benefit Eligibility Client Letter
D-SNP Client Doctor, Provider, and Prescription Checklist
Hacking Your Social Media Algorithm:
“Hacking Your Social Media Feed to Enhance Mental Health.” Well Nourished Psych, Well Nourished Psych, wellnourishedpsych.com/hacking-your-social-media-feed-to-enhance-mental-health/. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
Poyourow, Joanne. “How to Create Your Own Good News Feed.” Change-Making News, Change-Making News, https://www.change-making.com/how-to-quit-doomscrolling/. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
“How To Cultivate A Feel-Good Social Media Feed.” Sweat.Com, Sweat, sweat.com/blogs/wellbeing/feel-good-social-media-feed. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
“How To Cultivate A Positive Social Media Experience.” Henryford.Com, Henry Ford Health, 28 Feb. 2025, www.henryford.com/blog/2025/02/how-to-cultivate-a-positive-social-media-experience.
“Tips for Using News and Social Media in a Healthy Way.” KaiserPermanente.Org, Kaiser Permanente, healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.tips-for-using-news-and-social-media-in-a-healthy-way.acl3156. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
iOS 26 Updates to Apple CarPlay:
Swanner, Nate. “Apple CarPlay Users Are About To Notice Huge Changes.” Autoblog.Com, Auto Blog, https://www.autoblog.com/news/apple-carplay-users-are-about-to-notice-huge-changes. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
Poultney, Leon. “I’ve Tried CarPlay’s New iOS 26 Makeover – Here Are My 5 Favorite Upgrades.” TechRadar.Com, TechRadar, 16 Sept. 2025, www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/ive-tried-carplays-new-ios-26-makeover-here-are-my-5-favorite-upgrades.
Miller, Chance. “This IOS 26 Change Makes Carplay Even Better.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 22 Sept. 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/09/22/carplay-in-ios-26-smart-display-zoom/.
The Fight for ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits:
Muoio, Dave. “Delaying ACA Subsidy Legislation Past Sept. 30 Limits next Year’s Premium Reductions: CBO.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 18 Sept. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/delaying-aca-subsidy-legislation-past-sept-30-limits-next-years-premium-reductions-cbo.
Sullivan, Peter. “GOP Considers Changing and Extending ACA Subsidies.” Axios.Com, Axios, 22 Sept. 2025, www.axios.com/2025/09/22/republicans-aca-tax-credit-changes.
“The Estimated Effects of Enacting Selected Health Coverage Policies on the Federal Budget and on the Number of People With Health Insurance.” Cbo.Gov, Congressional Budget Office, 18 Sept. 2025, www.cbo.gov/publication/61734.
What the Stay on 2025 ACA Final Rule Changes Means
Ortaliza, Jared, Anna Cord, et al. “Inflation Reduction Act Health Insurance Subsidies: What Is Their Impact and What Would Happen If They Expire?” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/inflation-reduction-act-health-insurance-subsidies-what-is-their-impact-and-what-would-happen-if-they-expire/.
More Episodes Like This One:
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Small business have a few different options for offering coverage to their employees Learn about these 3 options and how your role as an agent fits in.
Read the text version
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance
ACA Enrollment Periods Explained
Contract & Get Appointed to Sell with Health Insurance Companies
Community-Based Marketing for Insurance Agents
Meet Your Sales Team
Simplify Marketplace Enrollment with HealthSherpa
Six Ways to Generate ACA Leads
Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents FREE eBook DOWNLOAD
The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Generating Referrals FREE eBook DOWNLOAD
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
References:
“Agents & Brokers: How to Register to Sell Shop Insurance.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/small-businesses/agents-and-brokers/. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025.
Author: Louise Norris | Date Posted: October 11. “Can Small Businesses Use the ACA’s Health Insurance Marketplaces (Exchanges)?” Healthinsurance.Org, 2 May 2025, www.healthinsurance.org/faqs/ive-heard-a-lot-about-health-insurance-exchanges-but-what-are-shop-exchanges/.
“Find Local Help.” Local Assistance for Health Insurance Application, www.healthcare.gov/find-local-help/. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025.
“Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAS).” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/small-businesses/learn-more/individual-coverage-hra/. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025.
“Nexben.Com.” Nexben, 22 May 2024, www.nexben.com/.
“Promoting Healthcare Choice and Competition Across the United States.” Federal Register, 17 Oct. 2017, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/10/17/2017-22677/promoting-healthcare-choice-and-competition-across-the-united-states.
“What Is a QSEHRA?” Healthinsurance.Org, 7 July 2025, www.healthinsurance.org/glossary/qualified-small-employer-health-reimbursement-arrangement/.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Aaron Kassover from AgentMethods joins Sarah to talk about the growing importance of a well-rounded online presence. Don’t miss his approach to creating a digital footprint that shows leads you’re an active insurance agent.
AgentMethods Official Website
Follow AgentMethods on Social!
AgentMethods on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/AgentMethods AgentMethods on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/agentmethods-llc/ AgentMethods on Twitter, https://twitter.com/AgentMethods AgentMethods on YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/AgentMethods
Resources:
5 Marketing Podcasts to Follow
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
How Relationship Marketing Can Make the Difference in Your Agency
Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Partner Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Traditional Marketing Resources
Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Get involved and help businesses in your community offer employees affordable health care through Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs).
Read the text version
Work with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Community Engagement & ACA Marketing Suggestions for Agents
Field Notes – Digital Resources for Agents
How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments
How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals
Meet Your Ritter Sales Team
The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Generating Referrals
References:
“Health Insurance Marketplace Calculator.” KFF, 14 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/interactive/subsidy-calculator/.
“HRA Council Data Insights Hub.” HRA Council, https://www.hracouncil.org/report. Accessed 22 Aug. 2025.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
The Friday Five for September 19, 2025:
Wrapping up the 2025 Ritter Summits
Compliant Compensation for Medicare Sales, Renewals, or Services
New Features for Spotify Free & Premium
Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert… Otrovert?
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Ritter Resources:
Download eBooks and Guides
Read the Ritter Blog
Register for Events and Webinars
Compliant Compensation for Medicare Sales, Renewals, or Services:
“Burden of Proof.” Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law, www.law.cornell.edu/wex/burden_of_proof. Accessed 19 Sept. 2025.
Hurson, Brendan A. “City of Columbus Et Al. vs. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Et Al.” Democracyforward.Org, Democracy Forward, 22 Aug. 2025, democracyforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/35-City-of-Columbus-memorandum-opinion.pdf.
Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V/section-422.2274. Accessed 17 Sept. 2025.
Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V/section-423.2274. Accessed 17 Sept. 2025.
“Preponderance of the Evidence.” Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law, www.law.cornell.edu/wex/preponderance_of_the_evidence. Accessed 19 Sept. 2025.
New Features for Spotify Free & Premium:
“7 Ways Spotify’s New User Controls Put You in Charge of Your Listening.” For the Record, Spotify, 8 Sept. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-09-05/new-user-controls-personalize-listening/.
Shanklin, Will. “Free Spotify Users Can Finally Listen to Any Track Immediately.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 15 Sept. 2025, www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/free-spotify-users-can-finally-listen-to-any-track-immediately-130013081.html.
“Lossless Listening Arrives on Spotify Premium With a Richer, More Detailed Listening Experience.” For the Record, Spotify, 10 Sept. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-09-10/lossless-listening-arrives-on-spotify-premium-with-a-richer-more-detailed-listening-experience/.
Connellan, Shannon. “Spotify’s Free Users Can Now Search and Play Songs with Ease.” Mashable.Com, Mashable, 16 Sept. 2025, mashable.com/article/spotify-free-search-play-songs.
“Spotify’s Free Experience Is Even Better—Here’s How to Make the Most of It.” For the Record, Spotify, 15 Sept. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-09-15/free-experience-updates-features-tips/.
Mehta, Ivan. “Spotify Is Finally Launching Support for Lossless Music Streaming.” TechCrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 10 Sept. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/09/10/spotify-is-finally-launching-support-for-lossless-music-streaming/.
Rogers, Tammy. “Spotify Lossless Just Dropped — Here’s How It Compares to Apple Music, Tidal and Other High-Res Services.” Tomsguide.Com, Tom’s Guide, 15 Sept. 2025, www.tomsguide.com/entertainment/music-streaming/streaming-quality-everything-you-need-to-know-about-your-favorite-music-streamer.
Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert… Otrovert?
“A Deeper Dive into Otrovert Traits.” Theothernessinstitute.Com, The Otherness Institute, www.othernessinstitute.com/in-other-words/a-deeper-dive-into-otrovert-traits/. Accessed 17 Sept. 2025.
Burke, Olivia. “Expert Explains New ‘Otrovert’ Personality Type and It’s Very Different to Introverts or Extroverts.” LADbible.Com, LADbible, 12 Sept. 2025, www.ladbible.com/community/personality-type-otrovert-explained-dr-rami-kaminski-378511-20250912.
Kaminski, Rami. “‘Otroverts’ and Why Nonconformists Often See What Others Can’t.” Bigthink.Com, Big Think, 2 July 2025, bigthink.com/big-think-books/otrovert/.
Mendoza, Luis Felipe. “The Otrovert, New Personality Type Identified by Psychiatrists.” Colombia One, colombiaone.com, 16 Sept. 2025, colombiaone.com/2025/09/16/otrovert-new-personality/.
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT:
“Integrity Announces IntegrityCONNECT, an All-in-One Technology Growth Engine for Agents and Agencies.” Integrity.Com, Integrity, 17 Sept. 2025, integrity.com/announcingintegrityconnect/.
IntegrityCONNECT Agent Learning Center
List of IntegrityCONNECT Training Webinars
More Episodes Like This One:
5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
How Insurance Agents Can Use AI Tools
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Put your insurance business on the map by creating Google Business Profile. Learn how to create a profile, optimize it, and reach larger audiences online. Listen for all this and more!
Work with Ritter Insurance Marketing!
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet
Field Notes for Agents – Communication, Productivity, & Business Resources
Setting Up Your Insurance Business Structure ft. Frank Lavery & Justin Abodalo
Tips for Becoming a Top Producing Insurance Agency
What New Insurance Agents Need to Know
References:
“Get Listed on Google.” Google Business Profile, Google, https://business.google.com/us/business-profile/. Accessed 18 Aug. 2025.
“Manage Your Service Areas for Service-Area & Hybrid Businesses.” Google Business Profile Help, Google, https://support.google.com/business/answer/9157481. Accessed 18 Aug. 2025.
“Sign up for Business Profile.” Google Business Profile Help, Google, https://support.google.com/business/answer/10514137. Accessed 18 Aug. 2025.
“Verify Your Business on Google.” Google Business Profile Help, Google, https://support.google.com/business/answer/7107242. Accessed 18 Aug. 2025.
“Understand Your Business Profile Performance.” Google Business Profile Help, Google, https://support.google.com/business/answer/9918094. Accessed 18 Aug. 2025.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Discover Ritter Insurance Marketing's resource hub for surviving AEP 2026!
Make This Your Best AEP Yet!
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
The Friday Five for September 12, 2025:
Ritter Summit Takeaways Part 2
Are Brokers Still in the Crosshairs? Policy and Market Updates for 2026
2026 Medicare & You Handbook
Release Date for iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, and WatchOS 26
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment
Ritter Summit Takeaways Part 2:
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits
Are Brokers Still in the Crosshairs? Policy and Market Updates for 2026:
Watch the Webinar
2026 Medicare & You Handbook:
Download Your Copy
Release Date for iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, and WatchOS 26:
Peters, Jay. “iOS 26 Is out on September 15th.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 9 Sept. 2025, www.theverge.com/news/770784/apple-ios-26-release-date-liquid-glass.
McAuliffe, Zachary. “I Was Right Yet Again: iOS 26 Is Coming Monday, Sept. 15.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 9 Sept. 2025, www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/i-was-right-yet-again-ios-26-is-coming-monday-sept-15/.
Perry, Alex. “Apple iOS 26 Release Date: When You Can Download It.” Mashable.Com, Mashable, 9 Sept. 2025, mashable.com/article/apple-ios-26-release-date-how-to-download.
Diaz, Maria. “iOS 26 Update Is Coming Soon - How to Download It (and Which iPhones Support It).” Zdnet.Com, ZDNET, 10 Sept. 2025, www.zdnet.com/article/ios-26-update-is-coming-soon-how-to-download-it-and-which-iphones-support-it/.
Teague, Katie. “iOS 26: What to Know about the Free iPhone Software Update Arriving September 15.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 11 Sept. 2025, www.engadget.com/mobile/ios-26-what-to-know-about-the-free-iphone-software-update-arriving-september-15-135749658.html.
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment:
August 22, 2025 Friday Five: Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit
“By the Numbers: House Bill Takes Health Coverage Away From Millions of People and Raises Families’ Health Care Costs.” Cbpp.Org, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, www.cbpp.org/research/health/by-the-numbers-house-bill-takes-health-coverage-away-from-millions-of-people-and. Accessed 11 Sept. 2025.
“CMS Broadens Access to Catastrophic Exchange Plans.” Modernhealthcare.Com, Modern Healthcare, 4 Sept. 2025, www.modernhealthcare.com/politics-regulation/mh-catastrophic-health-plans-open-enrollment-2026/.
“Entities Approved to Use Enhanced Direct Enrollment.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Aug. 2024, www.cms.gov/files/document/ede-approved-partner.pdf.
Reed, Tina. “Exclusive: HHS to Expand Eligibility for Catastrophic Plans.” Axios.Com, Axios, 4 Sept. 2025, www.axios.com/2025/09/04/trump-hhs-expand-catastrophic-plan-eligibility.
“Expanding Access to Health Insurance: Consumers to Gain Access to ‘Catastrophic’ Health Insurance Plans in 2026 Plan Year.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/expanding-access-health-insurance-consumers-gain-access-catastrophic-health-insurance-plans-2026.
“Guidance on Hardship Exemptions for Individuals Ineligible for Advance Payment of the Premium Tax Credit or Cost-Sharing Reductions Due to Income, and Streamlining Exemption Pathways to Coverage.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/files/document/guidance-hardship-exemptions.pdf.
“HHS Expands Access to Affordable Health Insurance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-expands-access-affordable-health-insurance.
“HHS Expands Access to Affordable Health Insurance.” HHS.Gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.hhs.gov/press-room/hhs-expands-access-affordable-catastrophic-health-coverage.html.
Ortaliza, Jared, Matt McGough, Kaitlyn Vu, et al. “How Much and Why ACA Marketplace Premiums Are Going up in 2026.” Healthsystemtracker.Org, KFF, 6 Aug. 2025, www.healthsystemtracker.org/brief/how-much-and-why-aca-marketplace-premiums-are-going-up-in-2026/.
Minemyer, Paige. “Trump Administration Expands Access to ACA Catastrophic Plans.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 4 Sept. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/trump-administration-expands-access-aca-catastrophic-plans.
Resources:
2026 ACA & Medicare Cost Projections
3 Benefits of Selling ACA Insurance Plans
5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe
2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
AEP 2026 will be here before you know it. We’ve broken down the path to a successful Annual Enrollment Period in 5 steps, tap that play button to find out what they are!
Read the text version
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Certification Center on Ritter Docs
Compliance Posts on the Ritter Blog
Compliance Tab in Ritter Docs
Get Registered with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Integrity Technology Training Schedule
Meet Your Sales Team at Ritter Insurance Marketing
Miramar:Agent
Pinpoint Global
Ritter Events Calendar
The Complete Guide on How to Sell Medicare Advantage Plans
The Complete Guide on How to Sell Prescription Drug Plans
The Ritter Agent Compliance Handbook
References:
“CMS 2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/04/23/2024-07105/medicare-program-changes-to-the-medicare-advantage-and-the-medicare-prescription-drug-benefit. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.
“Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.
“Medicare Marketing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-guidelines. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.
“Part D Communication Requirements.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Discover the benefits to selling hospital indemnity plans!
Download Your FREE Copy – The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Understanding Hospital Indemnity Policies
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Artificial intelligence can streamline and automate menial tasks for agents. In this episode find out the pros and cons of using AI for your insurance business.
Read the text version
Partner with Ritter Insurance Marketing!
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Ask Integrity
Gen Z and Insurance Sales: The Perfect Match
How to Recruit Agents to Your Downline
Integrity Tools for Agents
Introducing Integrity for Agencies: Innovate Your Downline Insurance Business
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Tips for Becoming a Top Producing Insurance Agency
References:
“Siri.” Apple, https://www.apple.com/siri/. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.
“What Is Gemini and How It Works.” Gemini, https://gemini.google/overview/. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.
“Why Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) so Important?: CSU Global.” Colorado State University Global, 22 Apr. 2025, https://csuglobal.edu/blog/why-ai-important.
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
This week, we tackle 5 Medicare myths that your clients may believe. Learn how to respectfully refute these myths, educate your clients, and empower them to make informed choices.
The Content Library from Ritter Insurance Marketing
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Medicare Basics Resources on the Content Library*:
How and When Can I Change Medicare Insurance Plans?*
The Basics of Medicare Insurance*
What is Original Medicare? *
What is Medicare Part C (Advantage)? *
What is Medicare Part D? *
What are Medicare Supplements? *
Additional Podcast Episodes & Resources:
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media
Apps for Content Creation
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents ft. Lisa Lynch and Jeff Snyder
Medicare Advantage Trial Rights Explained for Agents
What New Insurance Agents Need to Know
What to Know When Replacing Existing Med Supp Plans for Clients
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
*Requires RitterIM.com registration & login
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
We’ve got updates on the 2026 ACA Exchange, requirements, and training resources!
Read the text version
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
List of State Exchange Websites
Resources:
Certification Center - Ritter Docs
Everything Agents Need to Know About Selling in State-Based Marketplaces
FREE eBook download The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans
How to Become Certified for ACA Marketplace Sales with FFM Training
OEP Ready-to-Sell Checklist for New Agents
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Simplify Marketplace Enrollment HealthSherpa
References:
“Brokers.” Marketplace Individual & Families, https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/agent/. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
“Brokers: Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority.” PHIEA, https://agency.pennie.com/brokers/. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
“FAQs for Marketplace Agents and Brokers.” Agent Broker FAQ CMS, https://www.agentbrokerfaq.cms.gov/s/article/What-is-the-Marketplace-Learning-Management-System-and-how-do-I-access-it. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
“Find Affordable Health Insurance in Georgia.” Georgia Access, 8 Aug. 2025, https://georgiaaccess.gov/.
“For Certified Brokers.” Connect for Health Colorado, 10 June 2025, https://connectforhealthco.com/for-certified-brokers/.
“Home.” Maryland Health Connection, 5 Aug. 2025, https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/.
“Official Site of the State of New Jersey.” GetCoveredNJ | Brokers & Agents, https://nj.gov/getcoverednj/home/assisters_ba.shtml. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025
“Registration and Training for Marketplace Agents and Brokers.” CMS.Gov, https://www.cms.gov/marketplace/agents-brokers/registration-training. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
“Welcome to Kynect Health Coverage.” HealthCoverage, https://kynect.ky.gov/healthcoverage/s/?language=en_US. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
The Friday Five for August 29, 2025:
Ritter Summits Takeaways & Shoutouts
What I’m Watching Right Now
Apple “Awe Dropping” Event Announced
Spotify Slips Into the DMs
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Ritter Summits Takeaways & Shoutouts:
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits
What I’m Watching Right Now:
The Residence on Netflix
Apple “Awe Dropping” Event Announced:
Esposito, Filipe. “5 iPhone 17 Rumors Apple Basically Confirmed in Its ‘Awe Dropping’ Event Invite.” Macworld.Com, Macworld, 27 Aug. 2025, www.macworld.com/article/2889966/5-iphone-17-rumors-apple-just-confirmed-in-its-awe-dropping-event-invite.html.
Lord, Sarah. “Apple’s ‘Awe Dropping’ iPhone 17 Event: What to Expect and How to Watch.” PCMAG.Com, PCMAG, 27 Aug. 2025, www.pcmag.com/news/apple-awe-dropping-iphone-17-event-what-to-expect-how-to-watch.
Hall, Zac. “Apple Officially Announces iPhone 17 Event: ‘Awe Dropping.’” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 26 Aug. 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/08/26/iphone-17-event-announcement-2/.
Carlson, Jeff. “Deciphering Apple’s ‘Awe Dropping’ iPhone 17 Event Invite.” CNET.Com, CNET, 27 Aug. 2025, www.cnet.com/tech/deciphering-apples-awe-dropping-iphone-17-event-invite/.
Hardwick, Tim. “What Not to Expect at Apple’s ‘Awe Dropping’ September 9 Event.” MacRumors.Com, MacRumors, 28 Aug. 2025, www.macrumors.com/2025/08/28/what-not-to-expect-apple-iphone-17-event/.
Spotify Slips Into the DMs:
“Introducing Messages, A New Way To Share What You Love on Spotify with Friends and Family.” Newsroom.Spotify.Com, Spotify, 26 Aug. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-08-26/introducing-messages-a-new-way-to-share-what-you-love-on-spotify-with-friends-and-family/.
Schneider, Marc. “Spotify’s DMS Are Open.” Billboard.Com, Billboard, 26 Aug. 2025, www.billboard.com/pro/spotify-messages-app-sharing-dms-feature/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Spotify Is Adding DMS.” TheVerge.Com, The Verge, 26 Aug. 2025, https://www.theverge.com/news/765771/spotify-messages-dms-audio-sharing-feature.
Spangler, Todd. “Spotify Launches In-App Messaging, Hoping New DM Feature Will Boost Listening and ‘Drive Hype.’” Variety.Com, Variety, 26 Aug. 2025, variety.com/2025/digital/news/spotify-launches-in-app-messaging-1236497588/.
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions:
Hurson, Brendan A. “City of Columbus Et Al. vs. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Et Al.” Democracyforward.Org, Democracy Forward, 22 Aug. 2025, democracyforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/35-City-of-Columbus-memorandum-opinion.pdf.
Minemyer, Paige. “Courts Press Pause on Key Elements of Trump Administration’s ACA Rule.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 25 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/courts-press-pause-key-elements-trump-administrations-aca-rule.
Bruner, Bethany. “Federal Judge Halts Implementation of Health Insurance Changes in Lawsuit Columbus Filed.” Dispatch.Com, The Columbus Dispatch, 25 Aug. 2025, www.dispatch.com/story/news/courts/2025/08/22/federal-judge-halts-trump-administration-health-insurance-rules-columbus-ohio-lawsuit-aca-obamacare/85782252007/.
“Healthcare.Gov’s Marketplace in Your State.” HealthCare.Gov, HealthCare.gov, www.healthcare.gov/marketplace-in-your-state/. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.
Pifer, Rebecca. “Judge Stays Provisions of Trump Administration Rule Overhauling ACA.” Healthcare Dive, healthcaredive.com, 25 Aug. 2025, www.healthcaredive.com/news/trump-affordable-care-act-rule-stay-cms/758474/.
Clason, Lauren. “RFK Jr.’s Obamacare Changes Partially Paused by Federal Judge.” Bloomberglaw.Com, Bloomberg Law, 22 Aug. 2025, news.bloomberglaw.com/health-law-and-business/rfk-jr-s-obamacare-changes-partially-paused-by-federal-judge.
Oeschner, Troy, et al. “What’s at Stake in California v. Kennedy?” Rockinst.Org, Rockefeller Institute of Government, 22 Aug. 2025, www.rockinst.org/blog/whats-at-stake-in-california-v-kennedy/.
Resources:
3 Benefits of Selling ACA Insurance Plans
5 Things About ICHRA
2026 ACA & Medicare Cost Projections
ACA Enrollment Periods Explained
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
We're back with another update on Ritter's Content Library - Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage! This time, Sarah and Jeff chat about how this content can help agents educate clients about the ins and outs of their Medicare coverage.
📚Browse Ritter Insurance Marketing’s Content Library for Insurance Agents
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Resources:
5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out in a Crowd
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media
Field Notes on Partner Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Traditional Marketing Resources
How Relationship Marketing Can Make the Difference in Your Agency
Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents
Learning to Delight in the Limelight ft. Linda Ugelow
Reach out to Ritter’s Compliance Team
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance plans can be a lucrative addition to your business!
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads
2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info
ACA Enrollment Periods Explained
Agent Requirements for ACA Sales
Everything Agents Need to Know About Selling in State-Based Marketplaces
How to Become Certified for ACA Marketplace Sales with Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) Training
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman
The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Plans – FREE eBook Download
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
References:
“5 Steps to Start Selling Marketplace Health & Dental Plans.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/agent-broker-quick-start/. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
“Low Cost Marketplace Health Care, Qualifying Income Levels.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs/. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
“Marketplace Enrollment, 2014-2025.” KFF, 8 July 2025, https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/state-indicator/marketplace-enrollment/.
“New Agents’ and Brokers’ Guide to Plan Year 2025 Marketplace Registration and Training.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/new-agents-and-brokers-guide-marketplace-registration-and-training.pdf. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
“Over 24 Million Consumers Selected Affordable Health Coverage in ACA Marketplace for 2025.” CMS.Gov, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/over-24-million-consumers-selected-affordable-health-coverage-aca-marketplace-2025. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
“Registration and Training for Marketplace Agents and Brokers.” CMS.Gov, https://www.cms.gov/marketplace/agents-brokers/registration-training. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Lisa Marzolino and Danica Stover join Sarah to talk about ICHRA (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements) and the partnership between Nexben and Ritter Insurance Marketing. Listen to learn more about this exciting opportunity for agents!
🚨UPDATE: This episode was recorded and produced prior to U.S. District Judge Hurson's decision to stay several provisions from the 2025 ACA Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Rule. For information on those changes, we recommend listening to our August 29th Friday Five episode, Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
Questions about ICHRA? Ready to get started? Reach out to Nexben at RitterICHRA@nexben.com or call 1-888-613-6461.
Resources:
5 Things About ICHRA
How an ICHRA Partnership Can Support ACA Sales
ICHRA vs. QSEHRA vs. Group Health Plans: Sales Opportunities for Insurance Agents
Questions to Ask Clients Shopping for an ACA Plan
References:
“A Broker’s Guide to ICHRA Defined Contributions: Strategies, Affordability, and Examples.” Nexben.Com, Nexben, 31 July 2025, www.nexben.com/blog/a-brokers-guide-to-ichra-defined-contributions-strategies-affordability-and-examples.
“ICHRA Guide for Individual Coverage HRAS 2025.” Takecommandhealth.Com, Take Command Health, 10 June 2025, www.takecommandhealth.com/ichra-guide.
“ICHRA Reporting Requirements: Details to Know & How Nexben Helps.” Nexben.Com, Nexben, 18 June 2025, www.nexben.com/blog/ichra-reporting-requirements-details-to-know-how-nexben-helps.
“The Power of an ICHRA: ICHRA Benefits for Employees, Employers, and Brokers.” Nexben.Com, Nexben, 17 Apr. 2025, www.nexben.com/blog/the-power-of-an-ichra-ichra-benefits-for-employees-employers-and-brokers.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
The Friday Five for August 22, 2025:
Field Notes on OBBBA, Spotify, and TikTok
D. Power Medicare Advantage Member Satisfaction Survey
Sonder Health Plans Inc. Termination
Short-Term Medical Plan Regulation Update
Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit
Get Connected:
📞Contact Ritter’s Team in Georgia – Steve Telander, Jada Morthland, and Betsy Bond!
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Field Notes on OBBBA:
5 Things From the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill
The One Big Beautiful Bill: What Health Insurance Agents Should Know
Field Notes on Spotify:
“Mix Your Favorite Playlists Seamlessly by Adding Your Own Transitions.” Newsroom.Spotify.Com, Spotify, 19 Aug. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-08-19/mix-your-favorite-playlists-seamlessly-by-adding-your-own-transitions/.
Romero, Andrew. “Spotify Is Doubling down on Track Transitions with New Custom Options.” 9to5google.Com, 9to5google, 19 Aug. 2025, 9to5google.com/2025/08/19/spotify-custom-playlist-transitions/.
Perez, Sarah. “Spotify’s Latest Feature Lets You Add Your Own Transitions to Playlists.” TechCrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 19 Aug. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/08/19/spotifys-latest-feature-lets-you-add-your-own-transitions-to-playlists/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Spotify’s New Track Mixing Tool Adds DJ Features to Your Playlists.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 19 Aug. 2025, www.theverge.com/news/761290/spotify-playlist-mix-audio-transition-feature.
Mauran, Cecily. “Spotify Now Allows Custom Transitions in Playlists.” Mashable.Com, Mashable, 19 Aug. 2025, mashable.com/article/spotify-custom-transitions-in-playlists.
Field Notes on TikTok:
West, Chloe. “TikTok Hashtags: How to Use the Best Hashtags for More Views in 2025.” Sproutsocial.Com, Sprout Social, 14 Aug. 2025, sproutsocial.com/insights/tiktok-hashtags/.
Hutchinson, Andrew. “TikTok Implements Hashtag Limit.” Socialmediatoday.Com, Social Media Today, 17 Aug. 2025, www.socialmediatoday.com/news/tiktok-implements-five-hashtag-limit-per-post/757857/.
Adegbola, Anu. “TikTok Limits Posts to Five Hashtags.” Searchengineland.Com, Search Engine Land, 18 Aug. 2025, searchengineland.com/tiktok-limits-hashtags-460894.
J.D. Power Medicare Advantage Member Satisfaction Survey:
“2025 U.S. Medicare Advantage Study.” Jdpower.Com, J.D. Power, 19 Aug. 2025, www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-medicare-advantage-study.
“J.D. Power: Medicare Advantage Headwinds Impacting Member Satisfaction.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 19 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/jd-power-medicare-advantage-headwinds-impacting-member-satisfaction.
Payerchin, Richard. “Medicare Advantage Policy Changes Fuel Confusion, Skepticism among Beneficiaries.” Edited by Todd Shryock, MedicalEconomics.Com, MedicalEconomics, 19 Aug. 2025, www.medicaleconomics.com/view/medicare-advantage-policy-changes-fuel-confusion-skepticism-among-beneficiaries.
Sonder Health Plans Inc. Termination:
Contact Ritter’s Team in Georgia – Steve Telander, Jada Morthland, and Betsy Bond!
“Important Announcement Regarding Sonder Health Plans, Inc.” Oci.Eorgia.Gov, Georgie Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Fire Safety, oci.georgia.gov/press-releases/2025-08-15/important-announcement-regarding-sonder-health-plans-inc. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.
“Sonder Health Plans, Inc. - In Receivership.” Sonderhealthplans-Inreceivership.Com, Sonder Health Plans, sonderhealthplans-inreceivership.com/. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.
Short-Term Medical Plan Regulation Update:
“Federal Agencies Signal a Shift in Enforcement of Short-Term Health Insurance Rules.” Aha.Org, American Hospital Association, 8 Aug. 2025, www.aha.org/news/headline/2025-08-08-federal-agencies-signal-shift-enforcement-short-term-health-insurance-rules.
“Short-Term Health Insurance Availability and Limits by State.” Healthinsurance.Org, healthinsurance.org, 15 Aug. 2025, www.healthinsurance.org/short-term-health-insurance/.
“Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance and Independent, Noncoordinated Excepted Benefits Coverage.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, 3 Apr. 2024, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/04/03/2024-06551/short-term-limited-duration-insurance-and-independent-noncoordinated-excepted-benefits-coverage.
“Statement of U.S. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury Regarding Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 7 Aug. 2025, www.cms.gov/files/document/statement-regarding-short-term-limited-duration-insurance.pdf.
Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit:
O’Conner, Reed. “Americans for Beneficiary Choice & Council for Medicare Choice vs. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.” Gove.Uscourts.Com, U.S. District Court, 18 Aug. 2025, storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.txnd.389767/gov.uscourts.txnd.389767.62.0.pdf.
“Judge Vacates Medicare Advantage Marketing Rule Provisions.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 19 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/judge-vacates-medicare-advantage-marketing-rule-provisions.
Resources:
2025 MA Enrollment Stats & Trends
2026 ACA & Medicare Cost Projections
2026 Midwest D-SNP Market Opportunity
2026 D-SNP Market Snapshot
5 Things About ICHRA
Americans for Beneficiary Choice Wins Medicare Advantage Broker Compensation Ruling Lawsuit
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
In this Field Notes episode we’re reviewing Agency Management Systems to automate tasks, distribute leads, and streamline your business.
Read the text version
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Agency Management Systems:
AgencyBloc AMS+
AMS360
Hawksoft
MedicarePRO
NextAgency
Radius Agency
Resources:
How to Sell Final Expense Insurance FREE eBook Download
How to Recruit Agents to Your Downline
Integrity Tools for Insurance Agents
The Difference Between Captive and Independent Agents
Your Best AEP Yet with Ritter Insurance Marketing
References:
“AMS360.” Vertafore, https://www.vertafore.com/products/agency-management-software/ams360. Accessed 31 July 2025.
“Agency Management System Built for You!” Radius, https://www.radiusbob.com/. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
“Agency Management System/CRM for Health & Life Insurance: Agencybloc.” AgencyBloc Insurance Agency CRM, https://www.agencybloc.com/. Accessed 31 July 2025.
“AMS vs CRM: Choosing the Right Fit for You.” AMS vs CRM: What’s Right for You?, https://www.glueup.com/blog/ams-vs-crm. Accessed 31 July 2025.
HawkSoft. “Privacy.” HawkSoft, https://www.hawksoft.com/privacy/. Accessed 31 July 2025.
“Industry Standard CRM and Sales Tool.” MedicarePRO, https://www.medicareproapp.com/site/siteController/index. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
HawkSoft. “Insurance Agency Management System.” HawkSoft, https://www.hawksoft.com/agency-management-system/. Accessed 31 July 2025.
Katz, Alan. “Nextagency Agency Management System.” NextAgency, 2 Aug. 2025, https://nextagency.com/.
“Riskmatch for Agencies & Brokers.” Vertafore, https://www.vertafore.com/products/insurance-analytics-tool/riskmatch. Accessed 31 July 2025.
“Sales Enablement Tools for Health & Life Insurance Agencies.” AgencyBloc Insurance Agency CRM, https://www.agencybloc.com/ams/sales-enablement/. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
Presson, Molly. “What Is an Agency Management System?” Home, PlanYear, Inc., 18 Apr. 2023, https://www.planyear.com/blog/what-is-an-agency-management-system.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
This is good stuff. Thank you.