Agent Survival Guide | Empowering Insurance Agents to Survive Today and Thrive Tomorrow

Finding Opportunity Despite Medicare & ACA Market Challenges

The Friday Five for July 17, 2026:
A New Way to Read Classic Books, Speeches, & Essays
What We’ve Been Reading
Meta Pulls Instagram Muse Image Feature
The Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act of 2026 (H.R. 9187)
ACA Preliminary Rate Filings & What Agents Can Do in the Meantime
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
A New Way to Read Classic Books, Speeches, & Essays:
“Reading on a screen, with your hands.” Typewryte.com, Typewryte, https://www.typewryte.com/, Accessed 13 Jul 2026.
 
What We’ve Been Reading:
Rupe, Susan. “The Medicare agent squeeze.” Insurancenewsnet.com, Insurance News Net, 1 Jul 2026, https://insurancenewsnet.com/innarticle/the-medicare-agent-squeeze.
 
Meta Pulls Muse Image Feature:
“Introducing Muse Image: Image Generation Built for Your World.” About.fb.com, Meta, 7 Jul 2026, https://about.fb.com/news/2026/07/introducing-muse-image-meta-ai/.
Ropek, Lucas. “Meta removes controversial AI feature on Instagram after backlash.” TechCrunch.com, Tech Crunch, 10 Jul 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/10/meta-removes-controversial-ai-feature-on-instagram-after-backlash/.
Clark, Phil. “Meta withdraws its controversial AI image feature.” mashable.com, Mashable, 12 Jul 2026, https://mashable.com/tech/meta-withdraws-controversial-ai-feature-that-allowed-images-to-be-sourced.
Garner, Glenn et. Al. “Zucked Up! Meta Disables AI Image Generator After CAA & SAG-AFTRA Trashed It: ‘Missed The Mark’” deadline.com, Deadline, 10 Jul 2026, https://deadline.com/2026/07/meta-disables-new-ai-image-generator-zuckerberg-1236979706/.
 
The Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act of 2026 (H.R. 9187)
“H.R. 9187 - Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act of 2026.” congress.gov, United States Congress, 8 Jun 2026, https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/9187.
“Paul, Trina. “Lawmakers Revisit Bipartisan Commission to Avert Social Security Benefit Cuts by 2032.” Investopedia.com, Investopedia, 6 Jul 2026, https://www.investopedia.com/a-new-bill-would-create-social-security-commission-to-find-a-fix-to-social-security-s-funding-shortfall-12006512.
Lacey, Brooke. “Proposed legislation takes aim at Social Security shortfall.” insurancenewsnet.com, Insurance News Net, 6 Jul 2026, https://insurancenewsnet.com/innarticle/proposed-legislation-takes-aim-at-social-security-shortfall.
 
ACA Preliminary Rate Filings & What Agents Can Do in the Meantime:
 “In Preliminary Rate Filings, ACA Marketplace Insurers Largely Propose Double-Digit Premium Increase For 2027, Following a Steep Climb This Year.” kff.org, KFF, https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/in-preliminary-rate-filings-aca-marketplace-insurers-largely-propose-double-digit-premium-increase-for-2027-following-a-steep-climb-this-year/.
 
Resources:
2027 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification
How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility For Your Clients
New Scam Targeting Insurance Agents
Real Sales Expectations for Insurance Agents
Ritter Insurance Marketing Events & Webinars
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Empower Your Prospects to Act Before Turning 65

In the insurance industry, if your job begins and ends with meeting clients and selling insurance, you’re missing out on opportunities. In this episode, we’re exploring what empowerment is and how it can help embed you in your community for long-lasting and valuable partnerships.
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🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:  
3 Essential Steps New Insurance Agents Need to Take
17 Ways to Generate Medicare Leads (That You Probably Haven’t Tried Yet!)
Community-Based Marketing for Insurance Agents
Content Library Best Practices
The Definitive Guide to Getting Leads and Prospecting for Medicare Sales
How to Organize a Turning 65 Seminar on a Budget
Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You
IntegrityCONNECT
PlanEnroll
Ritter Insurance Marketing’s Content Library
ShopRitterIM
ShopRitterIM T65 Lead Mailer
 
References:
Empowerment - ResearchGate, www.researchgate.net/publication/316451077_Empowerment. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
“Get Started with Medicare.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
Hanna, Katie Terrell. “What Is Affinity Marketing?: Definition from TechTarget.” WhatIs, TechTarget, 2 May 2024, www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/affinity-marketing.
“Independence and Older Adults: Importance and Promoting It.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/independence-and-the-elderly. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Real Sales Expectations for Insurance Agents

Are your expectations grounded in reality? Or, are you setting yourself up for disappointment? Goals are great, smart goals are even better, but we often equate goals with expectations and wind up frustrated when the two don’t match up. Listen to learn how to avoid the pitfall of unrealistic expectations and the actions you can take instead.
 
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Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
How Insurance Agents Can Set SMART Goals to Succeed
4 Effective Techniques for Closing Insurance Sales
How to Overcome Common Medicare Insurance Sales Objections
5 Common Sales Mistakes You Might Be Making (And How to Fix Them!)
3 Additional Effective Techniques for Closing Insurance Sales
What’s Inside The Complete Guide on How to Sell Medicare Advantage Plans?
This Is the Time to Start Selling Under-65 Marketplace Plans!
There's More to Life Insurance Than Just a Policy
How Much Money Can Agents Make Selling Ancillary Health Insurance?
Diversify Your Insurance Portfolio & Reap Real Rewards
What’s Inside A Quick Guide to Cross-Selling Ancillary Insurance with Medicare Products?
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

2027 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification

Don’t miss the details on 2027 ACA Certification for the Federal Marketplace and State-Based Exchanges! We cover training deadlines, continuing education creds, and recertification requirements!
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Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Ritter Insurance Marketing Certification Center
 
State Exchanges:
CA “Covered California” https://www.coveredca.com/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
CO “Connect for Colorado” https://connectforhealthco.com/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
CT “Access Health CT” https://www.accesshealthct.com/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
GA “Georgia Access” https://georgiaaccess.gov/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
IL “Get Covered Illinois” https://getcovered.illinois.gov/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
KY “kynect” https://kynect.ky.gov/healthcoverage/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
MD “Maryland Health Connection” https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
NJ “Get Covered NJ” https://www.nj.gov/getcoverednj/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
NY “NY State of Health” https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/agent/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
PA “Pennie” https://agency.pennie.com/brokers/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
VA “Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace” https://www.marketplace.virginia.gov/ Accessed 10 Jul 2026.
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

New Scam Targeting Insurance Agents

The Friday Five for July 10, 2026:
Halfway Through 2026
Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits
Musings on Artificial Intelligence
CDC High Heat & Medication Guidance
Scam Targeting Insurance Agents
 
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📣 Shoutouts? 🤔 Questions? 💌 Feedback? Send them all to: ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com
⛰️ Ritter Summits Registration Now Open! Save Your Spot Today!!
 
Musings on Artificial Intelligence:
Abrams, Zara. “How AI is reshaping human skills and thinking.” Apa.org, American Psychological Association, 1 July 2026, https://www.apa.org/monitor/2026/07-08/ai-job-skills-thinking.
Hoover, Amanda. “Is AI making us dumber?” businessinsider.com, Business Insider, 7 Jul 2026, https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-making-us-dumber-research-2026-7.
 
CDC High Heat & Medication Guidance:
“CDC Heat Risk Map.” Ephtracking.cdc.gov, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/Applications/HeatRisk/, Accessed 7 Jul 2026.
Price, Jamiese. “Doctors warn GLP-1 users about dehydration risk amid severe heat.” Abc11.com, 11ABC, 1 Jul 2026, https://abc11.com/post/doctors-warn-glp-1-users-dehydration-risk-amid-severe-heat/19432623/.
“Heat and Medications – Guidance for Clinicians.” Cdc.gov, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, 18 Sep 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/hcp/clinical-guidance/heat-and-medications-guidance-for-clinicians.html.
French, Mandy et. al. “These 10 Medications May Raise Your Risk of Heat-Related Illness.” Healthline.com, Healthline, 5 Jul 2026, https://www.healthline.com/health-news/10-common-medications-heat-related-illness-risk.
 
Scam Targeting Insurance Agents:
“Should I Be Concerned | Insurance Forums.” Insurance-Forums.Com, Insurance Forums, www.insurance-forums.com/community/threads/should-i-be-concerned.117816/. Accessed 7 July 2026.
 
Resources:
2027 Medicare Advantage & Part D Certification Info
Certification 2027, America Turns 250, Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demo Webinar
Community-Based Marketing for Insurance Agents
CMS Medicaid Work Requirements
Federal Judge Vacates Several CMS ACA Provisions
Q3 ACA Sales Calendar
Q3 Medicare Sales Planner
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Medicare & Medicaid Compared: How Both Programs Benefit Insurance Agents

Have you ever had a client mistake Medicare and Medicaid (or have you mixed the two up)? In this episode of the Agent Survival Guide podcast, we’re comparing, contrasting, and clarifying how these two government-funded programs differ and how they work together!
 
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Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Agent Registration
How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client
Meet Your Sales Team
Stay Busy Outside of AEP With Special Enrollment Periods
The Beginner's Guide to D-SNPs
 
References:
“4 Types of Medicare Savings Programs and What They Cover.” UnitedHealthcare, www.uhc.com/news-articles/medicare-articles/4-types-of-medicare-savings-programs-and-what-they-cover. Accessed 8 June 2026.
Burns, Alice, et al. “10 Things to Know about Medicaid.” KFF, 12 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicaid/10-things-to-know-about-medicaid/.
“Create an Account.” Healthcare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/create-account. Accessed 8 June 2026.
“Eligibility Policy.” Medicaid, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility-policy. Accessed 8 June 2026.
“How Medicaid Works with Medicare.” Medicare Interactive, 2 Apr. 2025, www.medicareinteractive.org/understanding-medicare/cost-saving-programs/medicare-and-medicaid/how-medicaid-works-with-medicare.
“Low Cost Marketplace Health Care, Qualifying Income Levels.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs/. Accessed 8 June 2026.
“Medicaid & Chip Coverage.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/getting-medicaid-chip/. Accessed 8 June 2026.
Williams, Elizabeth, et al. “Medicaid Financing: The Basics.” KFF, 21 Apr. 2026, www.kff.org/medicaid/medicaid-financing-the-basics/.
“Parts of Medicare.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/medicare-basics/parts-of-medicare. Accessed 8 June 2026.
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility For Your Clients

Did you know that CMS estimates three million Medicare beneficiaries aren’t enrolled in the government’s Medicare Extra Help program but could benefit from it? In this episode of the Agent Survival Guide, we see what this program is and how it can help your clients.
 
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Get Connected:
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📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
8 Powerful Practices for Selling Prescription Drug Plans
How to Help Clients Avoid Medicare Late Enrollment Penalties
How to Save Beneficiaries Money on Prescription Drugs at a Preferred Pharmacy
The Beginner's Guide to D-SNPs
The Part D SEP Triggers That Can Help You Post-AEP
What Agents Can't Say During Medicare Sales Appointments
 
References:
“Apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help Program.” Social Security, www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“CMS Issues Additional Guidance on Program to Allow People with Medicare to Pay Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs in Monthly Payments.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-issues-additional-guidance-program-allow-people-medicare-pay-out-pocket-prescription-drug-costs#:~:text=The%20Medicare%20Prescription%20Payment%20Plan%2C%20which%20goes%20into%20effect%20in,-of-pocket%20cost%20upfront. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Extra Help With Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs.” Social Security, secure.ssa.gov/i1020/Ee001View.action. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Get Lower Prescription Costs with the Extra Help Program.” Kaiser Permanente, healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/georgia/shop-plans/ready-for-medicare/extra-help. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Get Medicare Help from Your Local Ship Program: Ship Ta Center.” State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, 16 Mar. 2026, www.shiphelp.org/.
“Guide to Consumer Mailings from CMS, Social Security, and Plans in 2025/2026.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/prescription-drug-coverage/limitedincomeandresources/downloads/consumer-mailings.pdf. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Help with Drug Costs.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/drug-costs. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Low Income Subsidy for Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/medicare/enrollment-renewal/part-d-plans/low-income-subsidy. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
Medicare.Gov, www.medicare.gov/account/login. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Medicare Savings Programs Eligibility and Coverage.” Medicare Savings Program Eligibility and Coverage, www.ncoa.org/article/medicare-savings-programs-eligibility-coverage/. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
“Supplemental Security Income (SSI).” Social Security, www.ssa.gov/ssi. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Q3 ACA Sales Calendar

The 3rd quarter of each year is an essential period of time for preparing yourself. Before the ACA Open Enrollment is upon us, know the details, the dates, and the key prep steps with this episode of the Agent Survival Guide.
 
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Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources
2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info
Contract & Get Appointed to Sell with Health Insurance Companies
FAQs About ACA Certification and Training
Free Ritter Guides
Meet Your Sales Team
Ritter Agent Registration
The Busy ACA Agent’s Sales Calendar 2026
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Q3 Medicare Sales Planner

Q3 has arrived and preparations for AEP 2027 are starting. Listen to find out what agents selling Medicare should focus on during this time of year.
 
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Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
3 Benefits of Contracting to Sell Medicare Advantage Plans Outside of AEP
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
2027 MA and Part D Max Commissions
CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge
Learn More About Online Contracting with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Request Your Portfolio Review from Ritter Insurance Marketing
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Certification 2027, America Turns 250, Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demo Webinar

The Friday Five for June 26, 2026:
Certification Resources for Agents
Dunkin & Starbucks Summer Part 2
America 250 Semiquincentennial
Student Loan Repayment Update
Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration Webinar
 
Register to Attend Integrity’s Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration Webinar
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Certification Resources for Agents:
Everything You Get With Your Ritter Registration
Ritter’s Certification Center
Ritter Docs
2027 NABIP Medicare Certification
AHIP Test Tips and Tricks for Medicare Certification 
FAQs About NABIP Medicare Certification
What Is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It?
 
Dunkin’ & Starbucks Summer Part 2:
“Dunkin’ Serves Pink This Summer with a Bold Beverage Lineup and Iconic Collaboration with Barbie.” Dunkindonuts.com, Dunkin’, 3 Jun 2026, https://news.dunkindonuts.com/news/new-menu-june-2026.
“Starbucks to launch new summer drinks, and bring back S’mores Frappucino.” About.starbucks.com, Starbucks, 8 Jun 2026, https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2026/starbucks-launches-new-summer-drinks-brings-back-smores-frappuccino/.
 
America 250 Semiquincentennial:
“America 250 Official Website.” America250.org, America 250, https://america250.org/, Accessed 24 Jun 2026.
“Giving Forth.” America250.org, America 250, https://america250.org/giving4th/, Accessed 24 Jun 2026.
How to Enjoy July 4th While Staying Healthy and Safe
“Join the Celebration: America’s Block Party.” America250.org, America 250, https://america250.org/americas-block-party/, Accessed 24 Jun 2026.
 
Student Locan Repayment Update:
Hanson, Melanie. “Average Cost of College by Year.” Educationdata.org, Education Data Initiative, 23 Sep 2025, https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-college-by-year.
Turner, Cory. “Student loan borrowers will get an interest rate cut if they sign up for auto pay.” Npr.org, NPR, 16 Jun 2026, https://www.npr.org/2026/06/18/nx-s1-5863085/student-loan-auto-pay-discount.
Nova, Annie. “Trump administration temporarily cuts student loan interest rates for borrowers on autopay.” Cnbc.com, CNBC, 18 Jun 2026, https://www.cnbc.com/2026/06/18/trump-student-loan-autopay-interest-rate-discount.html.
Gupta, Gaya. “US student debt repayment system is being overhauled – here’s what to know.” Theguardian.com, The Guardian, 16 Jun 2026, https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jun/16/us-student-debt-repayment-system-changes-explainer.
 
Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration Webinar:
Register to attend Integrity’s Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Webinar
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Top 5 Products to Sell During Medicare's Lock-In Period

Here are the top five insurance products you should be looking to sell during the Medicare lock-in period. The insurance industry never stops moving. Make sure you know the products to keep your business moving along with it.
 
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Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Cancer & Critical Illness Plans:
5 Steps to Selling Cancer Insurance
Critical Illness Plans: Your Cure for Unhealthy Sales
Cross-Selling Cancer, Heart Attack and Stroke, and Critical Illness Insurance
 
Dental, Vision, Hearing Insurance:
4 Steps to Selling Dental, Vision, and Hearing Insurance
Cross-Selling Dental, Vision, and Hearing (DVH) Insurance
Dental, Vision, and Hearing Insurance Sales: How, Who, and Why
 
Hospital Indemnity Insurance:
Boost Business Selling Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Cross-Selling Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Interview: Boost Your Commissions with a New Hospital Indemnity Sales Strategy
Selling Hospital Indemnity with Medicare Advantage: Is It Worth It?
 
Life Insurance:
4 Ways to Calculate Your Clients’ Life Insurance Needs
5 Life Insurance Myths Your Clients May Believe
Introducing the Life & Annuity Resource Center
How to Explain the Real Cost of a Funeral & Help Your Clients Plan for One
Life Insurance for Each of Life’s Stages
 
Long-Term Care & Short-Term Care Insurance:
4 Out-of-the-Box Long-Term Care Insurance Solutions
4 Ways to Fund Hybrid Long-Term Care Insurance Agents Should Mention
Are You Offering Multiple LTC Insurance Options?
Cross-Selling Long-Term Care Insurance
Cross-Selling Short-Term Care Insurance
 
Special Needs Plans (SNPs):
4 Characteristics of Agents Who Successfully Sell Special Needs Plans
C-SNP Eligibility and Enrollment
D-SNP Enrollment
How to Transition from AEP to D-SNPs
The Beginner’s Guide to C-SNPs
The Beginner’s Guide to D-SNPs
 
eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents:
A Quick Guide to Cross-Selling Ancillary Insurance with Medicare Products
The Complete Guide on How to Sell D-SNPs
The Complete Guide on How to Sell Final Expense Insurance (eBook)
The Complete Guide to Prospecting and Selling C-SNPs
The Complete Guide to Selling Critical Illness Plans
The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Understanding Hospital Indemnity Policies
 
References:
“Basic Needs.” Basic Needs | ACL Administration for Community Living, acl.gov/ltc/basic-needs. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Cancer of Any Site - Cancer Stat Facts.” SEER, seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/all.html. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans (C-Snps).” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/medicare/enrollment-renewal/special-needs-plans/chronic-conditions. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Does Medicare Cover Dental, Vision, and Hearing Care?” Does Medicare Cover Dental, Vision, and Hearing Care?, www.ncoa.org/article/what-medicare-covers-for-dental-vision-and-hearing-a-guide-for-older-adults/. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-Snps).” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/medicare/enrollment-renewal/special-needs-plans/dual-eligible. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Heart and Stroke Statistics.” Www.Heart.Org, www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-and-stroke-association-statistics. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Long-Term Care Insurance.” NAIC, content.naic.org/insurance-topics/long-term-care-insurance. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Long Term Care Insurance: Looking Back and Thinking Ahead.” New York State Department of Financial Services, www.dfs.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/06/dfs_ltc_report_20230607.pdf. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Nursing Home Care.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/coverage/nursing-home-care. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Special Needs Plans (SNP).” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/health-plans/your-health-plan-options/SNP. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
“Statistics and Graphs.” Statistics and Graphs | Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences (DCCPS), cancercontrol.cancer.gov/ocs/statistics. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

2027 Medicare Advantage & Part D Certification Info

Keep track of your AEP prep to-do checklist with help from Ritter's certification resources! Listen to find out how to access AHIP, NABIP, carrier MA and PDP certification, product training details, and more!
Read the text version
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
2027 Medicare Advantage & Part D Certification Info
2027 NABIP Medicare Certification
eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents
FAQs About NABIP Medicare Certification
Making Cross‑Selling Less Awkward for Insurance Agents ft. Demetri Simos and Dawn Myers
Ready-Made Marketing for Insurance Agents: Inside the Content Library
Ritter Insurance Marketing 2027 Certification Center
What Does 'Ready-to-Sell' Mean for Medicare Agents?
What is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It?
 
References:
“Medicare Advantage Certification.” NABIP.Org, NABIP, www.nabiptraining.org/nabip/medicare , Accessed 9 May 2026.
“Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Training.” Ahip.Org, AHIP, www.ahip.org/courses/medicare-fraud-waste-and-abuse-training , Accessed 9 May 2026.
“Miramar:Agent.” Miramar-Agent.Com, Miramar, https://miramar-agent.com/identity/login, Accessed 9 May 2026.
“Medicare Certification System.” pinpointglobal.com, Pinpoint Global, www.pinpointglobal.com/medicare-certification-system,  Accessed 9 May 2026.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Federal Judge Vacates Several CMS ACA Provisions

The Friday Five for June 19, 2026:
Certification for AEP 2027 Coming June 22
Microsoft Teams Location Tracking
Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Starts July 1
CMS to Codify Medicare Drug Price Negotiation
Federal Judge Vacates Several CMS ACA Provisions
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Certification for AEP 2027 Coming June 22:
2027 NABIP Medicare Certification
AHIP Test Tips and Tricks for Medicare Certification 
What is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It?
 
Microsoft Teams Location Tracking:
Jawad, Usama. “Microsoft Teams is getting a controversial location tracking feature that users may hate.” Neowin.com. Neowin. 12 Jun 2026, https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-teams-is-getting-a-controversial-location-tracking-feature-that-users-may-hate/.
Parmar, Mayank. “Microsoft Teams will auto-detect when you’re at the office via Wi-Fi, roll out confirmed, but you can opt out.” Windowslatest.com, Windows Latest, 15 Jun 2026, https://www.windowslatest.com/2026/06/15/microsoft-teams-will-auto-detect-when-youre-at-the-office-via-wi-fi-roll-out-confirmed-but-you-can-opt-out/.
Okemwa, Kevin. “Microsoft’s controversial Wi-Fi tracking in Teams is back – but this time with better privacy controls.” 15 Jun 2026, https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/microsoft-teams/microsofts-controversial-wi-fi-tracking-in-teams-is-back-but-this-time-with-better-privacy-controls.
 
Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Starts July 1:
CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge
Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration
How the BALANCE Model Will Help Medicare Part D & Medicaid Enrollees Access GLP-1s
“Medicare GLP-1 Bridge.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/prescription-drug-coverage/medicare-glp-1-bridge, Accessed 17 Jun 2026.
Reed, Tina. “Medicare weight-loss drug coverage could overwhelm doctors.” Axios.com, Axios, 15 Jun 2026, https://www.axios.com/2026/06/15/medicare-glp1-prescription-tsunami-seniors.
 
CMS to Codify Medicare Drug Price Negotiation:
“CMS Proposed Rule Locks in Lower Prices and Fosters Innovation for the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 12 Jun 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposed-rule-locks-lower-prices-fosters-innovation-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program.
Landi, Heather. “CMS proposes permanent framework for Medicare drug price negotiations.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 12 Jun 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-proposes-permanent-framework-medicare-drug-price-negotiations.
“Fact Sheet: Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program Proposed Rule.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/mdpnp-nprm-fact-sheet.pdf, Accessed 17 Jun 2026.
“Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program and Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/current. Accessed 17 June 2026.
“Timeline: Medicare Drug Price Negotiation.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/mdpnp-nprm-milestones.pdf, Accessed 17 Jun 2026.
 
Federal Judge Vacates Several CMS ACA Provisions:
“City of Columbus Et Al. v. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Et Al. Memorandum Opinion.” Litigationtracker.Law.Georgetown.Edu, Georgetown University, 12 June 2026, litigationtracker.law.georgetown.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Columbus_2025.08.22_ORDER-ON-MOTION-FOR-PRELIMINARY-INJUNCTION.pdf.
Conley, Julia. “Court Blocks ‘Illegal’ Trump Rule That Created Barriers to Affordable Care Act Coverage.” Commondreams.org, Common Dreams, 12 Jun 2026, https://www.commondreams.org/news/aca-trump.
“Judge tosses multiple provisions of CMS’ 2025 ACA program integrity rule.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 15 Jun 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/judge-tosses-multiple-provisions-cms-2025-aca-program-integrity-rule.
Casolo, Elizabeth. “Judge vacates parts of ACA ‘integrity’ rule.” Beckerspayer.com, Becker’s Payer Issues, 16 Jun 2026, https://www.beckerspayer.com/payer/aca/judge-vacates-parts-of-aca-integrity-rule/.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
 

Community-Based Marketing for Insurance Agents

Listen as we explore why community-based marketing is becoming more popular and how insurance agents can get started. This strategy is a great way for agents to grow their business just by getting involved in your local community.
 
Read the text version
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents
The Ultimate Agent Resource List Pt. 1: Market Yourself
Why Trust in an Insurance Agent’s Most Important Non-Renewable Resource
Your Guide to Forming an Insurance Agent Network
 
References:
Shah, Nirmit. “Community-Based Marketing: Strategies to Reach Your Audience.” Sprinklr.com, Sprinklr, 19 Mar 2025, https://www.sprinklr.com/blog/community-based-marketing/.
Abe, Stephanie. “Community Marketing: How 6 Brands Unite Customers.” Adroll.com, AdRoll Blog, https://www.adroll.com/blog/community-marketing-how-6-brands-unite-customers, Accessed 10 Jun 2026.
“What Is Digital Marketing? Key Concepts & Tips.” Mailchimp.com, mailchimp, https://mailchimp.com/marketing-glossary/digital-marketing/, Accessed 10 Jun 2026.
“What is Traditional Marketing? – Channels & Examples.” Feedough.com, Feedough, https://www.feedough.com/traditional-marketing/, Accessed 10 Jun 2026.
Mason, Rodney. “Why Community Will Make or Break Creators and Brands in 2025.” Forbes.com, Forbes, 7 Jan 2025, https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesagencycouncil/2025/01/07/why-community-will-make-or-break-creators-and-brands-in-2025/.
Varoquiers, Carrie. “Why Human Connection Is Your Ultimate AI-Era Advantage.” Forbes.com, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2026, https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesnonprofitcouncil/2026/02/23/why-human-connection-is-your-ultimate-ai-era-advantage/.
“Why, What and How of Community Outreach and Engagement.” Extension.unh.edu, University of New Hampshire, https://extension.unh.edu/resource/community-outreach-and-engagement-information-brief, Accessed 10 Jun 2026.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Start Selling 5-Star Medicare Advantage Plans All Year

This episode of the Agent Survival Guide podcast explores 5-Star Medicare Advantage plans. We’ll break down what they are, how they became 5-star plans, and why you can sell them throughout the year!
 
Read the text version
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Meet Your Sales Team
PlanEnroll
Why People Are CHoosing Part C Over Original Medicare
 
References:
“Part C and D Performance Data.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/part-c-d-performance-data. Accessed 5 May 2026.
“Special Enrollment Periods.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan/special-enrollment-periods. Accessed 5 May 2026.
“Special Enrollment Periods for Medicare Advantage and Part D - Medicare Interactive.” www.medicareinteractive.org/resources/special-enrollment-periods-for-medicare-advantage-and-part-d. Accessed 5 May 2026.
 
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Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube
Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.