Agent Survival Guide Podcast

2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2

The Friday Five for January 16, 2026:
Instagram “Your Algorithm” Personalization
Apple Health+ on the Horizon?
Apple Creator Studio
ACA Subsidy Extension Passes House
2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2
 
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.
 
Instagram “Your Algorithm” Personalization
Bell, Karissa. “Instagram wants you to personalize your Reels algorithm for 2026.” Engadget.com, Engadget, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.engadget.com/social-media/instagram-wants-you-to-personalize-your-reels-algorithm-for-2026-215252736.html.
“Introducing a new way to see and control your algorithm.” About.instagram.com, Instagram, 10 Dec. 2025, https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/reels-algorithm-control.
Hutchinson, Andrew. “Instagram Rolls Out Algorithm Control Option to All English-Speaking Users.” Socialmediatoday.com, Social Media Today, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-rolls-out-algorithm-control-option-to-all-english-speaking-users/809524/.
Peters, Jay. “Instagram wants to limit hashtag spam.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 18 Dec. 2025, https://www.theverge.com/news/847739/instagram-hashtag-spam-limit.
 
Apple Health+ on the Horizon?
Burkhardt, Michael. “Apple Launching ‘Revamped’ Health App Later This Year with These Four Upgrades.” 9to5mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 11 Jan. 2026, 9to5mac.com/2026/01/11/apple-health-new-features-and-overhaul-coming-ios-26-4/.
Raspall, David Bernal. “Apple’s Plans for the Health App Leak: A Huge Overhaul Closer than We Think.” Softonic.Com, Softonic, 12 Jan. 2026, en.softonic.com/articles/apple-health-plans-leak.
McMahon, Liv. “Apple Turns to Google to Power AI Upgrade for Siri.” Bbc.Com, BBC News, 13 Jan. 2026, www.bbc.com/news/articles/czdqvp2zqezo.
 
Apple Creator Studio
“Apple Introduces Apple Creator Studio, an inspiring collection of the most powerful creative apps.” Apple.com, Apple, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/01/introducing-apple-creator-studio-an-inspiring-collection-of-creative-apps/.
Rossignol, Joe. “Apple Introduces New 'Creator Studio' Bundle of Apps for $129 Per Year.” MacRumors.com, MacRumors, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/13/apple-creator-studio/.
Rossignol, Joe. “These Apple Apps Will No Longer Receive All New Features Without a Subscription.” MacRumors.com, MacRumors, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/13/apple-creator-studio-exclusive-app-features/.
 
ACA Subsidy Extension Passes House
Guggenheim, Benjamin, and Mia McCarthy. “ 17 Republicans Vote to Restore Lapsed Obamacare Subsidies.” Politico.Com, Politico, 8 Jan. 2026, www.politico.com/news/2026/01/08/17-republicans-vote-to-restore-lapsed-obamacare-subsidies-00717497.
Lillis, Mike, et al. “House Passes 3-Year Extension of ObamaCare Subsidies.” TheHill.Com, The Hill, 8 Jan. 2026, thehill.com/homenews/house/5680184-obamacare-tax-credits-bill-passes-house/.
Minemyer, Paige. “House Passes ACA Tax Credit Extension, With Support From 17 Republicans.” FierceHealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 12 Jan. 2026, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/legislators-revive-aca-debate-hill-trump-seeks-meeting-insurers.
 
2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2
“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.
“Marketplace 2026 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 12 Jan. 2026, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2026-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-0.
 
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/

5 Ways to Generate Medicare Leads

Leads are crucial to the success of your insurance business. Take a step outside the box with these creative Medicare lead-generation ideas!
   
Read the text version
   
🤝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 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out in a Crowd
Affinity Partnerships for Insurance Agents
Custom Ink
Field Notes on Partner Marketing Resources
Shop RitterIM
The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Establishing Successful Affinity Partnerships
 
References:
Forman-Katz, Naomi. “For National Radio Day, Key Facts about Radio Listeners and the Radio Industry in the U.S.” Pewresearch.Org, Pew Research Center, 17 Aug. 2023, www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/17/for-national-radio-day-key-facts-about-radio-listeners-and-the-radio-industry-in-the-us/.
 
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. 

6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads

Expand your Affordable Care Act client base with these six lead generation strategies!
 
Read the text version
 
🤝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 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out from the Crowd
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media
Build Your Brand with Community Involvement
Ritter Carrier Partners
Community Engagement & ACA Marketing Suggestions for Agents
How to Better Market Yourself
Marketing & Incentives
Why Being a Likable Agent Is Good for Your Business
 
References:
“Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).” Medicaid.Gov, https://www.medicaid.gov/chip. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“CMS.Gov Enterprise Portal.” Portal.Cms.Gov, https://portal.cms.gov/portal/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“FFM Agent Broker Registration and Termination Status Page.” Data.Healthcare.Gov, https://data.healthcare.gov/ffm_ab_registration_lists. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“FAQs for Marketplace Agents and Brokers.” AgentBrokerFaq.Cms.Gov, https://www.agentbrokerfaq.cms.gov/s/article/Where-can-I-update-my-public-facing-agent-broker-profile-information-so-that-consumers-can-find-me-and-request-assistance. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Find Local Help.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/find-local-help/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Get Help Applying & More.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/find-assistance/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Help on Demand: Training and Registration Guide.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, https://www.cms.gov/CCIIO/Programs-and-Initiatives/Health-Insurance-Marketplaces/Downloads/Help-On-Demand-Training-Registration-Guide.pdf. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Log in or Sign Up.” Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Log in or Sign Up.” LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/home. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Returning Agents’ and Brokers’ Guide to Plan Year 2025 ...” CMS.Gov, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/returning-agents-and-brokers-guide-marketplace-registration-and-training.pdf. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Shop Health Insurance Overview.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/small-businesses/choose-and-enroll/shop-marketplace-overview/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
“Welcome to the Health Insurance Marketplace®.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/. Accessed 3 Apr. 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.

Ringing in the New Year with CMS

The Friday Five for January 9, 2026:
Rural Health Transformation Program Allocations
Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model
Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model
Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth (BALANCE) Model
Clear, Accurate, and Actionable Health Care Prices
    
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.
 
Rural Health Transformation Program Allocations:
“CMS Announces $50 Billion in Awards to Strengthen Rural Health in All 50 States.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 29 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-50-billion-awards-strengthen-rural-health-all-50-states.
“CMS Announces Establishment of the Office of Rural Health Transformation.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 29 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-establishment-office-rural-health-transformation.
“CMS Launches Landmark $50 Billion Rural Health Transformation Program.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 Sep. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-launches-landmark-50-billion-rural-health-transformation-program.
 
Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model:
“CMS Proposes New Mandatory GUARD Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 21 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposes-new-mandatory-guard-model.
“GUARD (Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs) Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guard. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.
Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model.” Federalregister.Gov, U.S. Government, 
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/23/2025-23705/guarding-us-medicare-against-rising-drug-costs-guard-model. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.
 
Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model:
“CMS Proposes New Mandatory GLOBE Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 21 Dec. 2025,
https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposes-new-mandatory-globe-model.
“Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model.” Federalregister.Gov, U.S. Government, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/23/2025-23702/global-benchmark-for-efficient-drug-pricing-globe-model. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.
“GLOBE (Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing) Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services,
https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/globe. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.
 
Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth (BALANCE) Model:
“BALANCE (Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth) Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/balance. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.
“CMS Launches Voluntary Model to Expand Access to Life-Changing Medicines, Promote Healthier Living.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 23 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-launches-voluntary-model-expand-access-life-changing-medicines-promote-healthier-living.
How the BALANCE Model Will Help Medicare Part D & Medicaid Enrollees Access GLP-1s
Minemyer, Paige. “CMS Launching Payment Model to Boost Access to GLP-1s in Medicaid, Part D.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 24 Dec. 2025, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-launching-payment-model-boost-access-glp-1s-medicaid-part-d.
 
Clear, Accurate, and Actionable Health Care Prices:
Minemyer, Paige. “CMS Proposes Updates to Price Transparency Regs to Make Data More Accessible, Usable.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 19 Dec. 2025, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-proposes-updates-price-transparency-regs-make-data-more-accessible-usable.
“Transparency in Coverage.” Federalregister.Gov, U.S. Government, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/23/2025-23693/transparency-in-coverage. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.
“Transparency in Coverage Proposed Rule (CMS 9882-P).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 19 Dec. 2025,
https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/transparency-coverage-proposed-rule-cms-9882-p
“Trump Administration Proposes Significant Updates to Disclosure Requirements to Make Health Care Prices Clear, Accurate, and Actionable for Americans.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 19 Dec. 2025,
https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/trump-administration-proposes-significant-updates-disclosure-requirements-make-health-care-prices
 
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.

Why Gen Z is a Good Fit For Selling Insurance

Discover all the reasons why we think Gen Z is a great match for the insurance industry!
  
Read the text version
 
🤝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:
4 Reasons Why Ritter Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency       
10 Essential Tools for Beginner Insurance Agents
Developing Power Habits ft. Dr. Noah St. John
The Difference Between Captive & Independent Agents
The Difference Between Medicare & Medicaid
Your Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Started in Insurance Sales
 
References:
McAllister, Sean. “How is Gen Z changing the workplace?” Zurich.Com, https://www.zurich.com/media/magazine/2022/how-will-gen-z-change-the-future-of-work . Accessed 10 Dec. 2025.
Veltheim, Hanna. “Pandemic’s Impact on the Young: Generation Z and Growing up in the Middle of Covid-19.” Futures Platform, Futures Platform, 28 Nov. 2024, https://www.futuresplatform.com/blog/pandemics-impact-generation-z.
Hall, Rebecca. “Recruiting Gen Z: Understanding What Matters.” Imercer, https://www.imercer.com/articleinsights/Attracting-new-graduates-and-Gen-Z-with-the-right-pay-and-perks. Accessed 10 Dec. 2025.
Wells, Andrea. “Young Agents Survey: The next Generation Steps Up.” Insurance Journal, 22 Apr. 2015, https://www.insurancejournal.com/magazines/coverstory/2015/04/20/364399.htm.
“The Average Length of a Job by Generation: A Look at Workforce Trends.” Sudina Search, LinkedIn, 19 Feb. 2025, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/average-length-job-generation-look-workforce-trends-sudina-search-r4wqf#:~:text=Studies_indicate_that_Gen_Z,and_alignment_with_personal_values.
Robinson, Bryan. “The Gen Z Mindset Graduates Bring to the Workplace in 2025.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 27 Apr. 2025, https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2025/04/26/the-gen-z-mindset-graduates-bring-to-the-workplace-in-2025/.
Wilson, Heather H. “The Insurance Industry’s Talent Crunch: Attracting and Retaining Gen Z.” Insurance Journal, 24 Mar. 2025, https://www.insurancejournal.com/magazines/mag-features/2025/03/24/816425.htm .
 
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.

8 Strategies to Prevent Rapid Disenrollments from Medicare Plans

Rapid disenrollments don't have to happen to you! Learn how better communication can smooth over most Medicare plan disenrollment issues. We outline 8 strategies that are simple for agents to implement.
 
Read the text version
 
🤝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:
7 Reasons Clients Switch Medicare Plans During AEP
Do's and Don'ts of Medicare Compliance
Fact-Finder Worksheet PDF
Helping Clients Navigate Medicare’s Durable Medical Equipment Coverage
How to Save Beneficiaries Money on Prescription Drugs at a Preferred Pharmacy
Medicare Advantage Emergency-Related SEPs
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Do's and Don'ts
Medicare Advantage Trial Rights Explained for Agents
Medicare Grievances & How Insurance Agents Can (Try To) Prevent Them
Start Selling 5-Star Medicare Advantage Plans All Year
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
What Beneficiaries Value Most in Medicare Advantage Plans
 
References:
“Low Incomes, Little Savings: Many Medicare Beneficiaries Have Modest Financial Resources to Draw Upon in Retirement .” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicare/low-incomes-little-savings-many-medicare-beneficiaries-have-modest-financial-resources-to-draw-upon-in-retirement/.
“Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Ecfr.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.
“Outbound Education and Verification Calls to All New Enrollees.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/Medicare/Health-Plans/ManagedCareMarketing/downloads/MMGSection70-6Rev.pdf. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.
“Part D Communication Requirements.” Ecfr.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.
Sparks, Grace et. al. “Public Opinion on Prescription Drugs and Their Prices.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/health-costs/public-opinion-on-prescription-drugs-and-their-prices.
 
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 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents

In this episode, we’re tapping our past podcast guests for more advice. This time around, we asked what advice they would offer to more seasoned insurance agents. 
 
🤝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:
Adding Spokes to Your Wheel ft. Robert Rothschild
Building the Foundation for Success ft. Roy Snarr
How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman
 
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 Tips for New Insurance Agents

Just starting out in the insurance industry? There’s a lot to learn! We’ve compiled some tips from past podcast guests on the advice they would give to new insurance agents. 
 
🤝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:
Building the Foundation for Success ft. Roy Snarr
How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle
Making Your Own Luck ft. Michael Krantz
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman
 
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. 

Medicare Grievances & How Insurance Agents Can (Try To) Prevent Them

It’s important that agents are equipped to handle Medicare grievances when they arise. Listen to learn how to prepare and best practices for avoiding these situations.
 
Read the text version
 
🤝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:
A Review of Integrity’s Top Medicare Quoting Tools
Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance
IntegrityCONNECT
PlanEnroll
PlanEnroll Client Sync Tutorial PDF
Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event
Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Sales Event
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist
Updates to the 2026 AHIP Certification You Should Know
What Agents Can’t Say During Medicare Sales Appointments
What Not to Say During Medicare Educational and Sales Events
What to Know About SOAs in Medicare Health and Prescription Drug Plan Sales
References:
“Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (CMS-4208-F).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription-final. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025.
“Closed Confirmed Consumer Complaints by Coverage Type - CIS.” Closed Confirmed Consumer Complaints by Coverage Type - CIS, https://content.naic.org/cis_agg_type.htm. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025.
“Filing a Complaint.” Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/providers-services/claims-appeals-complaints/complaints. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025.
“Welcome to Medicare.” Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.medicare.gov/. Accessed 26 Nov. 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.

What Are the ACA Marketplace Alternatives for Health Insurance?

The Affordable Care Act health insurance is a great option for many. But it may not be the right fit for your clients. Discover ACA alternatives that fit your clients’ needs.
 
Read the text version
 
🤝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:
ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance
A Quick Guide to Cross-Selling Ancillary Insurance with Medicare Products
Government & Insurers Reconsider Short-Term Limited Duration Product Changes
How the ACA Subsidy Cliff Impacts Client Shopping for Marketplace Coverage
How to Prepare for AEP Like a Pro
How Much Money Can Agents Make Selling Ancillary Health Insurance
Key Takeaways From the 2025 Marketplace Integrity and Affordability CMS Final Rule
Secure a Bigger, Better Business with Ancillary Products
The One Big Beautiful Bill: What Health Insurance Agents Should Know 
References:
“E&O Insurance for Insurance Agents.” Insureon, www.insureon.com/insurance-agent-business-insurance/errors-omissions. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.
Stevenson, Michael. “Mid-Year 2025 Employee Benefits Market Update: 4 Trends to Watch.” Seubert, 7 Aug. 2025, www.seubert.com/blog/mid-year-2025-employee-benefits-market-update-4-trends-to-watch/.
“Minimum Essential Coverage.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/marketplace/health-plans-issuers/minimum-essential-coverage. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.
“Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) - Glossary.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/glossary/minimum-essential-coverage/. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.
“Qualifying Health Coverage - Glossary.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/glossary/qualifying-health-coverage/. Accessed 5 Nov. 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.

Top 5 Episodes of 2025

Sarah reveals the top Agent Survival Guide Podcast episodes of 2025. Did your favorite episode make the cut? You’ll have to listen to find out!
 
🤝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.
 
Links to the Top ASG Podcast Episodes of 2025:
2026 Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles
5 Ways to Survive Enrollment Season 2026
7 Actions You Can Take If Your Medicare Plans Go Non-Commissionable
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
Understanding the ACA Marketplace & Exchanges
 
Honorable Mention:
2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info
2026 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D
5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe
6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads
Celebrating 20 Years of Medicare AEPs & Growth: Looking Back at 2005
FMO vs. IMO vs. NMO vs. MGA vs. GA: What’s the Difference?
How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly
Optimize Your Online Presence ft. Aaron Kassover
Setting SMART Goals in 2025
The Best Appointment Schedulers for Insurance Agents
 
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. 

Holly Jolly Holiday Traditions

Join our merry elves as we celebrate the newest Content Library release: A Happy, Healthy Christmas! We talk content with a cup of holiday cheer and a heaping side of nostalgia.
 
Resources:
Content Library – A Happy, Health Christmas Packet
Ritter Insurance Marketing Content Library
YouTube Series – Cold Coffee & Stale Donuts
 
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/
 
🤝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.
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Holiday Gift Guide 2025

Sarah and Tina are back with another gift guide to help you survive holiday shopping! Listen as they chat about their favorite gifts to give and maybe one or two they’re hoping to receive this year.
 
🤝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.
 
Mentioned in this episode:
Pinch Provisions
Quince
Uncommon Goods
Waxing Poetic
 
Other episodes you might like:
Celebrating 20 Years of Medicare AEPs & Growth: Looking Back at 2005
Holiday Toy Shopping Guide 2025
How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly
 
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. 

Questions to Ask Clients Shopping for an ACA Plan

Use these questions to help your client find the right Affordable Care Act coverage!
Read the text version
🤝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 Tips for Finding Supplemental Coverage for ACA Plans
ACA Enrolment Periods Explained
Everything You Need to Know About the ACA OEP
FAQs About Selling On-Exchange & Off-Exchange Under-65 Plans
How the ACA Subsidy Cliff Impacts Shopping for Marketplace Coverage
How to Help Client Navigate ACA Marketplace Subsidies & Taxes
Meet Your Sales Team
Surviving OEP
The Ritter Docs – Under 65
There’s More to Life Insurance Than Just a Policy
The State of the ACA Market in 2025
Understanding ACA Plan Metal Tiers
Understanding the ACA Marketplace & Exchanges
What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Your Medicare & ACA Clients
 
References: 
“Low Cost Marketplace Health Care, Qualifying Income Levels.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs/. Accessed 4 Dec. 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.

Enrollment Stats, Snapshots & Spotlights

The Friday Five for December 12, 2025:
Wrapping Up AEP 2026
Spotify Wrapped 2025
Pebble Index 01
2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #1
KFF 2026 Medicare Advantage Spotlight
 
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.
 
Pebble Index 01:
Perez, Sarah. “Pebble’s Founder Introduces a $75 AI Smart Ring for Recording Brief Notes with a Press of a Button.” Techcrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 9 Dec. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/12/09/pebbles-founder-introduces-a-75-ai-smart-ring-for-recording-brief-notes-with-a-press-of-a-button/.
Chokkattu, Julian. “Pebble is Making a $75 Smart Ring.” Wired.com, Wired, https://www.wired.com/story/pebble-index-ring/.
Pierce, David. “The next Pebble gadget is the Index 01, a ring with a microphone.” theverge.com, The Verge, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.theverge.com/gadgets/840352/pebble-index-smart-ring-launch-price.
 
2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #1:
“Marketplace 2025 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Dec. 2024, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2025-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-0.
“Marketplace 2026 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 5 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2026-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot.
 
KFF 2026 Medicare Advantage Spotlight:
Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2026 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2026-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/.
Freed, Meredith, Nancy Ochieng, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2026 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Premiums and Benefits.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2026-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-premiums-and-benefits/.
 
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.