Agent Survival Guide Podcast

Field Notes on Traditional Marketing Resources

Learn how to promote your insurance business with traditional marketing strategies. We cover what agents should know: marketing materials, use cases, and where to find resources!
 
Partner Resources:
AllOver Media
Lead Concepts
LeadingResponse
ReminderMedia Branded Magazine Info
Ritter Agents working with ReminderMedia
 
Design Resources:
99Designs
Fiverr
Freelancer
Upwork
 
Print Resources:
4imprint
Carvertise
FASTSIGNS
Lead Concepts
MOO
Office Depot Printing Services
Printful
Staples Print & Marketing Services
Sticker Mule
Vistaprint
Wrapify
 
Ritter Resources:
8 Relationship Marketing Strategies for Insurance Agents featuring ReminderMedia’s Luke Acree and Andrew Saksa
Get Access to Exclusive Leads When You Become a PlanEnroll Network Agent
Integrity Official Site
Integrity Tools
LeadCENTER
MedicareCENTER
MedicareCENTER FAQs
PlanEnroll FAQs
Read The Ultimate Agent Resource List Part 1
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
ShopRitterIM
 
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.

What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?

In this episode of Agent Essentials, we’re covering the definition of the Health Insurance Marketplace!
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans
 
Resources:
FREE DOWNLOAD – The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans: https://ritterim.com/aca-ebook/  
How Much Can Agents Make Selling Under-65 Insurance: https://lnk.to/TlGBGH
Meet Your Ritter Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
Under-65 Health Products: https://ritterim.com/products/under-65/
 
State Based Marketplaces:
“Covered California: The Official Site of California’s Health Insurance Marketplace.” Covered California, https://www.coveredca.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Colorado’s Official Health Insurance Marketplace.” Connect for Health Colorado, 27 May 2025, https://connectforhealthco.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
Access Health CT, https://www.accesshealthct.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Welcome to DC Health Link | DC Health Link.” DC Health Link, https://www.dchealthlink.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Find Affordable Health Insurance in Georgia.” Georgia Access, 23 Jan. 2025, https://georgiaaccess.gov/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Your Health Idaho " Idaho’s Official Health Insurance Marketplace.” Your Health Idaho " Idaho’s Official Health Insurance Marketplace, 23 May 2025, https://www.yourhealthidaho.org/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“A Healthier, Happier Kentucky Starts Here.” Kynect, https://kynect.ky.gov/healthcoverage/s/?language=en_US. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Home.” Maryland Health Connection, 11 June 2025, https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/.
“Welcome to the Massachusetts Health Connector.” MA Health Connector, https://www.mahealthconnector.org/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“A Plan That Fits. A Price That Works.” Home | CoverME.Gov, https://www.coverme.gov/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“MNsure Home.” MNsure, https://www.mnsure.org/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Looking to Enroll in Health Insurance?” Nevada Health Link - Official Website, https://www.nevadahealthlink.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“GetCoveredNJ.” WWW.nj.gov, https://nj.gov/getcoverednj/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“BeWellnm - Your Health Insurance Marketplace in New Mexico.” BeWellnm, https://bewellnm.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“NY State of Health, the Official Health Plan Marketplace.” Ny.gov, 2013, https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/.
‌Home | Pennie. https://pennie.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
‌“Home.” HealthSource RI, https://healthsourceri.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
‌“VHC Landing Page.” Vermont.gov, 2020, https://portal.healthconnect.vermont.gov/VTHBELand/welcome.action. Accessed 12 June 2025.
‌“Home Page | Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace.” Www.marketplace.virginia.gov, https://www.marketplace.virginia.gov/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
‌“Home | Washington Healthplanfinder.” Wahealthplanfinder.org, 2018, https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
‌“English (United States) Home.” Illinois.gov, 2020, https://getcovered.illinois.gov/.
‌
References:
“ACA Health Insurance Plans & Coverage: Aetna CVS Health.” Aetna CVS Health, https://www.aetnacvshealth.com/. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Fast, Easy ACA Enrollment.” HealthSherpa, https://www.healthsherpa.com/agents/features. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“Individual & Family ACA Marketplace Plans | Individuals & Families | UnitedHealthcare.” UHC, UnitedHealthcare, https://www.uhc.com/individuals-families/aca-marketplace. Accessed 12 June 2025.
“The Marketplace in Your State.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/marketplace-in-your-state/. Accessed 3 June 2025.
“State Health Insurance Marketplace Types.” KFF, 29 May 2025, https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/state-indicator/state-health-insurance-marketplace-types/.
“Welcome to the Health Insurance Marketplace®.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/. Accessed 3 June 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.

Setting Up Your Insurance Business Structure ft. Frank Lavery & Justin Abodalo

Ever thought about incorporating your insurance business? Not sure if it’s the right move? In this episode, Sarah is joined by attorneys Frank Lavery and Justin Abodalo to learn more about business entities and how they’re structured. Frank focuses on the corporate law side, while Justin specializes in tax implications. Listen as theyir share their knowledge and weigh the pros and cons of each business structure option.
 
Find Frank Lavery Online:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-lavery-a05a57255/
McNees: https://www.mcneeslaw.com/people/frank-lavery/
 
Find Justin Abodalo Online:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-abodalo-463b3547/
McNees: https://www.mcneeslaw.com/people/justin-abodalo/
 
References:
Finnerty, Timothy, et al. “Closing Call for the Corporate Transparency Act: Fincen Removes Reporting Requirements for Domestic Business Entities.” Mcneeslaw.Com, McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC, 27 Mar. 2025, www.mcneeslaw.com/closing-call-corporate-transparency-act-fincen/.
Abodalo, Justin. “New Digital World, New Category of Form 1099.” Mcneeslaw.Com, McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC, 2 Oct. 2024, www.mcneeslaw.com/new-digital-world-form-1099/.
“Tax and Corporate Law Publications.” Mcneeslaw.Com, McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC, 30 Apr. 2025, www.mcneeslaw.com/practice/corporate-tax/.
 
Resources:
Building the Foundation for Success ft. Roy Snarr: https://lnk.to/snarr2025
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle: https://lnk.to/brindle2025
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman: https://lnk.to/zimmerman2025
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
 
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 Pros and Cons of Working with Regional and National Carriers

Is business growth on your 2025 goals list? Don't miss this episode! We outline features and drawbacks of the different carrier types to help you fill in portfolio gaps.
 
Read the text version
 
Request your Free Portfolio Review from the team at Ritter
 
Resources:
Adding Spokes to Your Wheel ft. Robert Rothschild: https://lnk.to/rothschild2025
Diversify Your Insurance Portfolio & Reap Real Rewards: https://lnk.to/asg651
Learn more about Integrity Tools: https://ritterim.com/integrity-tools/
Meet the Ritter Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman: https://lnk.to/zimmerman2025
Portfolio Review Request: https://ritterim.com/portfolio/?utm_source=asg_podcast_link
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://app.ritterim.com/public/registration/?utm_source=asg_podcast_link
Ritter Insurance Marketing Carriers by State: https://ritterim.com/products/by-carrier/
Ritter Platform: https://app.ritterim.com/
Takeaways on Social Media Marketing in 2025: https://lnk.to/asgf20250523
 
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.

Takeaways from the 2025 ACA Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Final Rule

Join Sarah for a rundown of this week’s updates for insurance agents, featuring her deep dive into the CMS 2025 ACA Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Final Rule.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Connect With 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/
 
Resources:
5 Things About the Insurance License Exam, 1 Year Later: https://lnk.to/asgf20250620
Are You Self-Sabotaging Your Insurance Sales Success? https://ritterim.com/blog/are-you-self-sabotaging-your-insurance-sales-success/
Four Reasons Why Ritter Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency: https://ritterim.com/blog/four-reasons-why-ritter-should-be-your-fmo-insurance-agency/
How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich: https://lnk.to/reich2025
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle: https://lnk.to/brindle2025
Register with RitterIM.com
Seven Figures or Bust Episode 79 - What Is CMS Doing? w/ Special Guest Sarah Rueppel! https://lnk.to/qzTwIw
Summer 2025 Survival Guide: https://lnk.to/asgf20250606
 
References:
“2025 Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Final Rule.” CMS.Gov, CMS, 20 June 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-marketplace-integrity-and-affordability-final-rule.
“2025 Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Proposed Rule.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 10 Mar. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-marketplace-integrity-and-affordability-proposed-rule.
“CMS Finalizes Major Rule to Lower Individual Health Insurance Premiums for Americans.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 20 June 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-finalizes-major-rule-lower-individual-health-insurance-premiums-americans.
Minemyer, Paige. “CMS Finalizes Rule Aimed at ‘improper’ Sign-Ups on the ACA Exchanges.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 20 June 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-finalizes-rule-aimed-improper-sign-ups-aca-exchanges.
Minemyer, Paige. “Democrats Introduce Bill to Establish a Medicare ‘part E’ Public Option.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 16 June 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/democrats-introduce-bill-establish-medicare-part-e-public-option.
Mercado, Darla. “Fed Decision Recap: Central Bank Signals Stagflation Fears, Powell Says Fed ‘Well Positioned to Wait’ on Rates.” CNBC.Com, CNBC, 18 June 2025, www.cnbc.com/2025/06/18/fed-meeting-live-updates-feds-interest-rate-projections-loom.html.
“HHS Secretary Kennedy, CMS Administrator Oz Secure Industry Pledge to Fix Broken Prior Authorization System.” HHS.Gov, Department of Health & Human Services, 23 June 2025, www.hhs.gov/press-room/kennedy-oz-cms-secure-healthcare-industry-pledge-to-fix-prior-authorization-system.html.
Minemyer, Paige. “Mehmet Oz: Insurers’ Prior Auth Pledge ‘an Opportunity for the Industry to Show Itself.’” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 23 June 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/oz-insurers-prior-auth-pledge-opportunity-industry-show-itself.
“Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Marketplace Integrity and Affordability.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/06/25/2025-11606/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-marketplace-integrity-and-affordability. Accessed 25 June 2025.
Schneider, Howard. “Powell Repeats Rate Cuts Can Wait as Fed Studies Tariff Impacts.” Reuters.Com, Reuters, 24 June 2025, www.reuters.com/business/powell-repeats-rate-cuts-can-wait-fed-studies-tariff-impacts-2025-06-24/.
Simmons-Duffin, Selena. “RFK Jr. and Dr. Oz Say Health Insurers Will Cut Red Tape on ‘Prior Authorizations.’” NPR.Org, NPR, 24 June 2025, www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/06/24/nx-s1-5442713/rfk-jr-dr-oz-health-insurance-prior-authorization.
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

2026 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D

This just in: CMS 2026 maximum broker commissions for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D. Listen to learn more about commission structure and the caps writing MA and PDP business in your market for the upcoming 2026 plan year.
 
Read the text version
 
Resources:
AHIP 2026 Certification Dates: https://lnk.to/asgf20250516
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
FAQs About NABIP Medicare Certification: https://ritterim.com/blog/faqs-about-nabip-medicare-certification/
How to Avoid Using Elderspeak: https://lnk.to/asgf20250530
Reach out to the team at Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/ 
Reassuring Your Clients During Difficult Times: https://lnk.to/asg671
What is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://lnk.to/asg672
 
References:
“2026 Medicare Advantage and Part D Rate Announcement.” CMS.Gov, CMS, 7 Apr. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2026-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-rate-announcement.
Agent Broker Compensation and Training and Testing Requirements CY2026: https://ritterim.com/documents/cms-memos/memo-agent-broker-compensation-and-training-and-testing-requirements-cy2026.pdf
 
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.

FAQs About NABIP Medicare Certification

Join Sarah and Tina as they review frequently asked questions about NABIP Medicare Certification. Don’t miss out on resources to help you get ready-to-sell!
 
Read the text version
 
NABIP Official Website: https://www.nabiptraining.org/
 
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: https://lnk.to/cdV0H1
Making Your Own Luck ft. Michael Krantz: https://lnk.to/krantz2025
Survive AEP with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://ritterim.com/aep/
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist: https://ritterim.com/blog/the-survivors-aep-checklist/ 
What is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://lnk.to/asg672
 
References:
“Approved Carriers for 2025.” NABIP.Org, https://www.nabiptraining.org/nabip/carriers. Accessed 5 June 2025.
“Corporate Partnership.” NABIP, https://nabip.org/membership/corporate-partnership. Accessed 5 June 2025.
“Course Credit Details.” NABIP.Org, https://www.nabiptraining.org/site/courseDetails/1777. Accessed 5 June 2025.
“Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (MFWA) Online Course.” Ahipmedicaretraining.Com, https://www.ahipmedicaretraining.com/. Accessed 5 June 2025.
“Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Compliance Requirements User Guide” NABIP.Org, https://nabip.org/media/8564/nabip-ma-user-guide.pdf . Accessed 5 June 2025.
“State Rules for Insurance Continuing Education.” NABIP.Org, https://www.nabiptraining.org/site/staterules. Accessed 5 June 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.

2026 NABIP Medicare Advantage Certification

Learn more about the NABIP Medicare Advantage Certification (MMACR), an alternative program for agents looking to satisfy their Medicare & Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training requirements from CMS.
 
Read the text version
 
Resources:
4 Ancillary Cross-Sales to Show Clients You Care: https://lnk.to/asg670
AHIP 2026 Certification Dates: https://lnk.to/asgf20250516
Reassuring Your Clients During Difficult Times: https://lnk.to/asg671
Takeaways on Social Media Marketing in 2025: https://lnk.to/asgf20250523
What Is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://lnk.to/asg672
 
References:
“NABIP Approved Carriers .” NABIP.Org, NABIP, https://www.nabiptraining.org/nabip/carriers. Accessed 2 June 2025.
“NABIP Medicare Advantage Certification.” NABIP.Org, NABIP, https://www.nabiptraining.org/nabip/medicare. Accessed 2 June 2025.
“NABIP Official Site.” Nabip.Org, NABIP, nabip.org/. Accessed 2 June 2025.
“NABIP Professional Development.” Nabip.Org, NABIP, nabip.org/professional-development. Accessed 2 June 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.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

FAQs About AHIP

 
The 2026 AHIP Certification training is now live! We’re covering AHIP FAQs to help you prepare!
 
Read the text version 
 
Resources:
Diversify Your Insurance Portfolio & Reap Real Rewards: https://lnk.to/asg651
Get Access to Exclusive Leads When You Become a PlanEnroll Network Agent: https://lnk.to/3pKJsF
FAQs About NABIP Medicare Certification: https://ritterim.com/blog/faqs-about-nabip-medicare-certification/
FMO vs. IMO vs. NMO vs. MGA vs. GA: What’s the Difference? https://lnk.to/asg658
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist: https://ritterim.com/blog/the-survivors-aep-checklist/
Updates to the 2026 AHIP Certification You Should Know: https://ritterim.com/blog/updates-to-the-2026-ahip-certification-you-should-know/
 
References: 
“AHIP Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (MFWA) Online Course.” Ahipmedicaretraining.com, 2025, https://www.ahipmedicaretraining.com/page/login. Accessed 20 May 2025.
AHIP Technical Support: Support@AHIPInsuranceEducation.org
Sawchuck, Craig. “Test Anxiety: Can It Be Treated?” Mayo Clinic, 14 May 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/generalized-anxiety-disorder/expert-answers/test-anxiety/faq-20058195. Accessed 20 May 2025.
‌“Top Universities.” Top Universities, Nov. 2012, https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/health-and-support/exam-preparation-ten-study-tips. Accessed 20 May 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.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

2026 Medicare Advantage and Part D Certification Info

Keep track of your AEP prep to-do checklist with help from Ritter's certification center and Ritter Blog weekly roundups. Listen to find out how to access carrier AHIP, NABIP, MA and PDP certification, product training details, and more!
 
Resources:
eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents: https://ritterim.com/guides/
FAQs About NABIP Medicare Certification: https://ritterim.com/blog/faqs-about-nabip-medicare-certification/
Ritter Insurance Marketing Certification Center: https://docs.ritterim.com/products/certification/
What Is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://lnk.to/asg672
 
References:
“Medicare Advantage Certification.” NABIP.Org, NABIP, www.nabiptraining.org/nabip/medicare. Accessed 30 May 2025.
“Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Training.” Ahip.Org, AHIP, www.ahip.org/courses/medicare-fraud-waste-and-abuse-training. Accessed 30 May 2025.
“Miramar:Agent.” Miramar-Agent.Com, Miramar, miramar-agent.com/KnowledgeBase/Article?kb=5. Accessed 30 May 2025.
“Medicare Certification System.” Pinpointglobal.Com, Pinpoint Global, www.pinpointglobal.com/medicare-certification-system. Accessed 30 May 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.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

AHIP Test Tips and Tricks for Medicare Certification

Certification season is here! Learn more about the AHIP test including how to prepare yourself, tips, tech hacks, and more. Listen before you begin your first attempt, you'll be glad you did!
 
Read the text version
 
Have questions about AHIP Certification? Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Contact Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://ritterim.com/contact/
How to Survive AEP: Wellness Tips for Insurance Agents: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-to-survive-aep-wellness-tips-for-insurance-agents/
Medicare Part D - Could Be Just What the Doctor Ordered: https://ritterim.com/blog/medicare-part-d-could-be-just-what-the-doctor-ordered/
What Does 'Ready-to-Sell' Mean for Medicare Agents? https://ritterim.com/blog/what-does-ready-to-sell-mean-for-medicare-agents/
What Is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://lnk.to/asg672
Why Insurance Agents Fail (& How Not To!): https://ritterim.com/blog/why-insurance-agents-fail-how-not-to/  
Why You Need to Make Time for Medicare Agent Training: https://ritterim.com/blog/why-you-need-to-make-time-for-medicare-training-and-where-to-find-great-resources/
 
References:
Oppido, Luigi. “How to Connect a Laptop to a Monitor.” wikiHow.Com, wikiHow, 20 Apr. 2025, www.wikihow.com/Connect-a-Laptop-to-a-Monitor.
“Positive Thinking: Stop Negative Self-Talk to Reduce Stress.” Mymlc.Com, Mosaic Life Care, www.mymlc.com/health-information/articles/p/positive-thinking-stop-negative-self-talk-to-reduce-stress/. Accessed 29 May 2025.
“The Impact of Stress on Our Health: How Can We Manage Stress in a Healthy Way?” Insightspsychology.Org, Insights Psychology, 28 Oct. 2024, insightspsychology.org/impact-of-stress-on-health-healthy-stress-management/.
 
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.

5 Things About the Insurance License Exam, 1 Year Later

Sarah reflects on the insurance licensing process one year after passing the exam. Listen as she outlines her journey, how to get started, and what she learned along the way.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Adding Spokes to Your Wheel ft. Robert Rothschild: https://lnk.to/rothschild2025
FMO vs. IMO vs. NMO vs. MGA vs. GA: What’s the Difference? https://lnk.to/asg658
Making Your Own Luck ft. Michael Krantz: https://lnk.to/krantz2025
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman: https://lnk.to/zimmerman2025
Summer 2025 Survival Guide: https://lnk.to/asgf20250606
What is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://lnk.to/asg672
 
References:
“Insurance Departments by State.” Content.Naic.Org, NAIC, content.naic.org/state-insurance-departments. Accessed 10 June 2025.
“Multiple Choice Test Taking Strategies.” Dmu.Edu, Des Moines University, www.dmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/MULTIPLE-CHOICE-TEST-TAKING-STRATEGIES.pdf. Accessed 10 June 2025.
“NAIC - National Association of Insurance Commissioners.” Naic.Org, NAIC, content.naic.org/. Accessed 10 June 2025.
“NIPR - National Insurance Producer Registry.” Nipr.Com, National Insurance Producer Registry, nipr.com/. Accessed 10 June 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 Pros and Cons of Selling Insurance

Thinking about becoming an insurance agent? In this episode, we weigh the pros and cons of selling insurance, so you’ll have the information you need before you make that big decision!
 
Read the text version
 
Get Started by Registering with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://app.ritterim.com/public/registration/
 
Learn More with These Resources:
2025 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D Update: https://lnk.to/dFX1s1
2025 State of the Senior Market Address: In Review: https://ritterim.com/blog/2025-state-of-the-senior-market-address-in-review/
5 Perks of Being a Part-Time Insurance Agent: https://lnk.to/YGJ3KX
Agent Survival Guide Podcast: https://lnk.to/asgpodcast
Building Client Loyalty: More than Just a Plan: https://ritterim.com/blog/building-client-loyalty-more-than-just-a-plan/ 
Contact the Ritter Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/contact/
Four Reasons Why Ritter Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency: https://ritterim.com/blog/four-reasons-why-ritter-should-be-your-fmo-insurance-agency/
Get Access to Exclusive Leads When You Become a PlanEnroll Network Agent: https://lnk.to/3pKJsF  
How Insurance FMOs Work: https://ritterim.com/how-insurance-fmos-work/?utm_source=asg_podcast_link
How Much Can Agents Make Selling Under-65 Insurance? https://lnk.to/TlGBGH
How Much Can Insurance Agents Make Selling Medicare? https://ritterim.com/blog/how-much-can-insurance-agents-make-selling-medicare/
How Professional Organizations Make You a Better Agent: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-professional-organizations-make-you-a-better-agent/ 
REWIND: 8 Relationship Marketing Strategies for Insurance Agents: https://lnk.to/9b3cTl
Ritter Insurance Marketing eBooks & Guides: https://ritterim.com/guides/
Ritter Insurance Marketing Events: https://ritterim.com/events/
The Advantages of Being a Field vs. Call Center Insurance Agent: https://ritterim.com/blog/the-advantages-of-being-a-field-vs-call-center-insurance-agent/ 
The Guide to Earning a Living Selling Health Insurance: https://ritterim.com/earning-a-living-selling-insurance/?utm_source=asg_podcast_link
Your Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Started in Insurance Sales: https://ritterim.com/free-guide/?utm_source=asg_podcast_link
 
References:
Cubanski, Juleette. “A Current Snapshot of the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Benefit.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/a-current-snapshot-of-the-medicare-part-d-prescription-drug-benefit/.
“Marketplace 2025 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 17 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2025-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-2.
Rosanes, Mark. “Want to Build a Career Selling Insurance? Here Are the Pros and Cons.” Insurance Business America, Insurance Business, 22 Jan. 2024, www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/guides/want-to-build-a-career-selling-insurance-here-are-the-pros-and-cons-473774.aspx.
 
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.

How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich

Value is more than just a care model for Neil Reich. He recently joined Sarah to chat about his background in the Medicare Advantage space, his focus on value-based care, and how providing value still drives his business today.
 
Find Neil Reich Online:
Care Connect Agency: https://careconnectagency.com/advisors/
Get the Playbook: https://careconnectadvisors.com/agent-playbook-download-form/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-reich-3382498
 
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
 
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. 

Takeaways from Apple WWDC 2025

The Friday Five for June 13, 2025:
Field Notes 6.13.2025
Apple Renames OS Versions
Apple Liquid Glass
Apple iPad Windowing
New Apple Features: Sarah’s Picks
 
Register for the ICHRA Introduction Webinar from Ritter & Nexben
 
Field Notes for June 13, 2025:
“AHIP Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Online Course.” Ahipmedicaretraining.Com, AHIP, www.ahipmedicaretraining.com/page/login. Accessed 10 June 2025.
ICHRA Webinar Information & Registration: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/20edcbcf-3b83-4971-8e26-b1c7854a8180@70dbad32-6e58-4114-88e8-84f5666158df 
“NABIP Medicare Advantage Certification.” NABIP.Org, NABIP, www.nabiptraining.org/nabip/medicare. Accessed 10 June 2025.
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits: https://summits.ritterim.com/
 
Apple Renames OS Versions:
Shibu, Sherin, and Melissa Malamut. “Apple Is Making a Major Change to Its Operating Systems Across All Products. Here’s What We Know.” Entrepreneur.Com, Entrepreneur, 29 May 2025, www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/apple-is-renaming-its-operating-systems-for-iphone-ipad/492439.
Mendes, Marcus. “Apple’s New OS Naming Could Make ‘iPhone 17’ Sound Even Weirder.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 28 May 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/05/28/apples-new-os-naming-vs-iphone-17/.
Preston, Dominic. “Apple Renames Its Operating Systems.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 9 June 2025, www.theverge.com/news/679221/apple-ios-macos-watchos-ipados-26-name.
 
Apple Liquid Glass:
Peters, Jay. “Apple’s Liquid Glass Was a Wild Change to My iPhone.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 10 June 2025, www.theverge.com/apple/683914/apple-iphone-ios-26-changes-liquid-glass.
Mickle, Tripp, and Brian X. Chen. “Apple’s New Software Focuses on Design Aesthetics Over A.I.” Nytimes.Com, New York Times, 9 June 2025, www.nytimes.com/2025/06/09/technology/apple-wwdc-ios-26.html.
Perez, Sarah. “Apple Redesigns Its Operating Systems with ‘Liquid Glass’ at WWDC 25.” TechCrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 9 June 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/06/09/apple-redesigns-its-operating-systems-with-liquid-glass/.
Lovejoy, Ben. “Here’s a Closer Look at the Liquid Glass Design in iOS 26 on the iPhone.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 10 June 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/06/10/heres-a-closer-look-at-the-liquid-glass-design-in-ios-26-on-the-iphone/.
 
Apple iPad Windowing:
Shanklin, Will. “Apple’s Walled Garden Is the iPad’s Biggest Roadblock to Becoming a Mac.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 9 June 2025, www.engadget.com/mobile/tablets/apples-walled-garden-is-the-ipads-biggest-roadblock-to-becoming-a-mac-223014619.html.
“iPadOS 26 Introduces Powerful New Features That Push the Capabilities and Versatility of iPad Even Further.” Apple.Com, Apple, 10 June 2025, www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/06/ipados-26-introduces-powerful-new-features-that-push-ipad-even-further/.
Christoffel, Ryan. “PSA: iPadOS 26 Removes Split View and Slide Over Multitasking Features.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 9 June 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/psa-ipados-26-removes-split-view-and-slide-over-multitasking-features/.
 
New Apple Features (Sarah’s Picks):
“Apple Elevates the iPhone Experience with iOS 26.” Apple.Com, Apple, 10 June 2025, www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/06/apple-elevates-the-iphone-experience-with-ios-26/.
“Apple finally brings Journal to iPad & Mac for better writing, sketching & reflection” appleinsider.com, Apple Insider, 9 June 2025, https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/06/09/apple-finally-brings-journal-to-ipad-for-better-writing-sketching-reflection.
Malik, Aisha. “Apple Unveils watchOS 26 with New Design, Wrist-Flick Gesture, and AI Workout Buddy Feature.” Techcrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 9 June 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/06/09/apple-unveils-watchos-26-with-new-design-wrist-flick-gesture-and-ai-workout-buddy-feature/.
“Journal App Finally Coming to Mac and iPad.” Macrumors.com, MacRumors, 9 June 2025, https://www.macrumors.com/2025/06/09/journal-app-finally-coming-to-mac-and-ipad/.
“watchOS 26 Delivers More Personalized Ways to Stay Active, Healthy, and Connected.” Apple.Com, Apple, 10 June 2025, www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/06/watchos-26-delivers-more-personalized-ways-to-stay-active-and-connected/.
 
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.