Agent Survival Guide Podcast
Ritter
Episodes
Wednesday Oct 22, 2025
Wednesday Oct 22, 2025
Jeff Snyder joins Sarah to chat about Ritter Insurance Marketing’s Content Library for insurance agents. Find out how to use non-insurance related content in your marketing efforts.
📚Browse Ritter Insurance Marketing’s Content Library for Insurance Agents
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Resources:
5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out in a Crowd
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media
Content Library: Master Medicare Insurance Coverage
Field Notes on Partner Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Traditional Marketing Resources
Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents
Reach out to Ritter’s Compliance Team
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Friday Oct 17, 2025
Friday Oct 17, 2025
The Friday Five for October 17, 2025:
Social Security 2026 COLA delayed
Meet Rust-Out; the apathetic cousin of Burnout
Instagram Goes PG-13 for Teens 13-17
A Chat with Jake McGeoy for our Maryland Agents
eHealth Medicare AEP Consumer Insights Survey
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.
Social Security 2026 COLA delayed:
September 2025 CPI Release Rescheduled
Meet Rustout; the apathetic cousin of Burnout
Forget Burnout: 5 Clear Signs You're Suffering From Rust-Out
Rust-Out and Burnout: Steps You Can Take to Overcome Them at Work
Rust Out - The warning signs and what to do about them
What is 'rust out' and are you experiencing it?
Instagram Goes PG-13 for Teens 13-17:
Instagram Teen Accounts Will Be Guided by PG-13 Ratings
Instagram to bring in version of PG-13 system to protect children, says Meta
Instagram Will Limit Content for Teenagers Based on PG-13 Ratings
Instagram will now be PG-13 for teens with Meta’s latest update
Motion Picture Association Film Ratings
A Chat with Jake McGeory for our Maryland Agents:
Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Team in Your Region
eHealth Medicare AEP Consumer Insights Survey
Resources:
How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly
What Agents Forget to Do When Preparing for Appointments
Where It All Begins: Obtaining Permission to Contact for Medicare Sales
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.
Friday Oct 10, 2025
Friday Oct 10, 2025
The Friday Five for October 10, 2025:
Medicare Telehealth in Limbo
Potential Delay for 2026 COLA?
Public Support for Extending ACA Subsidies
FFM Certification Now Available
5 Days Until AEP 2026
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Medicare Telehealth in Limbo:
Beavins, Emma. “Hospitals, Doctors Face Virtual Care Cliff with Telehealth, Hospital at Home Services on the Line.” Fierce Healthcare, 29 Oct. 2025, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/telehealth-hospital-home-deadlines-approach-no-funding-deal-sight.
Miller, Marika. “Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities: Countdown to September 30, 2025.” Foley & Lardner LLP, 11 Sept. 2025, https://www.foley.com/insights/publications/2025/09/medicare-telehealth-flexibilities-countdown-to-september-30-2025/.
Jackson, Marshall E., et al. “Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities Expire: Immediate Impacts and next Steps.” McDermott Will & Schulte, 1 Oct. 2025, https://www.mwe.com/insights/medicare-telehealth-flexibilities-expire-immediate-impacts-and-next-steps/.
Konish, Lorie. “Social Security Cola for 2026: How Federal Government Shutdown May Affect Announcement.” CNBC, CNBC, 9 Oct. 2025, https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/09/social-security-cola-2026-benefit-increase.html.
Blake, Suzanne, and Gabe Whisnant. “Social Security Update: Government Shutdown Will Delay Major Announcement.” Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025, https://www.newsweek.com/social-security-update-government-shutdown-2026-sola-10842238.
“US Government Shutdown Will Delay Social Security 2026 Cola Announcement | Reuters.” Reuters, 7 Oct. 2025, https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-government-shutdown-will-delay-social-security-2026-cola-announcement-2025-10-07/.
Public Support for Extending ACA Subsidies:
Sparks, Grace, et al. “KFF Health Tracking Poll: Public Weighs Political Consequences of Health Policy Legislation.” KFF, 3 Oct. 2025, https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/kff-health-tracking-poll-public-weighs-political-consequences-of-health-policy-legislation/.
FFM Certification Now Available:
2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info
Ritter Insurance Marketing Resources for AEP & Beyond:
Contact our Ritter Sales Team
Content Library
eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents
Events & Webinars for Insurance Agents
Knight School
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Ritter Blog
Ritter Carrier Pages
Ritter Docs
Surviving AEP Resource List
Surviving OEP Resource List
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.
Friday Oct 03, 2025
Friday Oct 03, 2025
CMS released their 2026 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D projections this week. Join Sarah as she highlights info for agents, from estimates on enrollment and premiums to plan accessibility and more!
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
2025 MA Enrollment Stats & Trends
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT
Can Insurance Agents Charge Medicare Consultation Fees?
Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit
Optimize Your Online Presence ft. Aaron Kassover
Risk Adjustment & Finding Value Beyond Coding Changes ft. Dr. Shannon Decker
Surviving AEP with Ritter Insurance Marketing
The Fight for ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist
What Agents Can't Say During Medicare Sales Appointments
What Can MAPD Insurance Agents Do Prior to AEP?
References:
“2026 MA and Part D Landscape State Fact Sheet.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/files/document/2026-ma-part-d-landscape-state-state-fact-sheet.pdf. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.
“Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Programs Expected to Remain Stable in 2026.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/medicare-advantage-medicare-prescription-drug-programs-expected-remain-stable-2026. Accessed 1 Oct. 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.
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
You've probably heard that partnering with a field marketing organization is a great idea for independent agents. Today, we're diving into the WHY. Learn more about Ritter Insurance Marketing: a national FMO offering resources and support for agents like you.
Read the text version
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
5 Things to Consider When Creating Your Personal Brand
2026 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D
Carriers Partnered with Ritter
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
Everything You Get With Your Ritter Registration
Events & Webinars for Insurance Agents
Everything You Get With Your Ritter Registration
Get in Touch with Ritter's Sales Team
How Insurance Agents Can Use AI Tools
IntegrityCONNECT Registration
Knight School Online Training for Insurance Agents
Learn More About Integrity Tools
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle
Marketing & Incentives with Ritter Insurance Marketing
PlanEnroll Information
Training & Educational Resources at 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.
Friday Sep 26, 2025
Friday Sep 26, 2025
The Friday Five for September 26, 2025:
AEP Countdown & Ritter Resources
New D-SNP Client Resources
Hacking Your Social Media Algorithm
iOS 26 Updates to Apple CarPlay
The Fight for ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Ritter Resources:
Connect with Your Sales Rep
Download eBooks and Guides
Read the Ritter Blog
Register for Events and Webinars
Surviving AEP
New D-SNP Client Resources:
D-SNP Benefit Eligibility Client Letter
D-SNP Client Doctor, Provider, and Prescription Checklist
Hacking Your Social Media Algorithm:
“Hacking Your Social Media Feed to Enhance Mental Health.” Well Nourished Psych, Well Nourished Psych, wellnourishedpsych.com/hacking-your-social-media-feed-to-enhance-mental-health/. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
Poyourow, Joanne. “How to Create Your Own Good News Feed.” Change-Making News, Change-Making News, https://www.change-making.com/how-to-quit-doomscrolling/. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
“How To Cultivate A Feel-Good Social Media Feed.” Sweat.Com, Sweat, sweat.com/blogs/wellbeing/feel-good-social-media-feed. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
“How To Cultivate A Positive Social Media Experience.” Henryford.Com, Henry Ford Health, 28 Feb. 2025, www.henryford.com/blog/2025/02/how-to-cultivate-a-positive-social-media-experience.
“Tips for Using News and Social Media in a Healthy Way.” KaiserPermanente.Org, Kaiser Permanente, healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.tips-for-using-news-and-social-media-in-a-healthy-way.acl3156. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
iOS 26 Updates to Apple CarPlay:
Swanner, Nate. “Apple CarPlay Users Are About To Notice Huge Changes.” Autoblog.Com, Auto Blog, https://www.autoblog.com/news/apple-carplay-users-are-about-to-notice-huge-changes. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025.
Poultney, Leon. “I’ve Tried CarPlay’s New iOS 26 Makeover – Here Are My 5 Favorite Upgrades.” TechRadar.Com, TechRadar, 16 Sept. 2025, www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/ive-tried-carplays-new-ios-26-makeover-here-are-my-5-favorite-upgrades.
Miller, Chance. “This IOS 26 Change Makes Carplay Even Better.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 22 Sept. 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/09/22/carplay-in-ios-26-smart-display-zoom/.
The Fight for ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits:
Muoio, Dave. “Delaying ACA Subsidy Legislation Past Sept. 30 Limits next Year’s Premium Reductions: CBO.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 18 Sept. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/delaying-aca-subsidy-legislation-past-sept-30-limits-next-years-premium-reductions-cbo.
Sullivan, Peter. “GOP Considers Changing and Extending ACA Subsidies.” Axios.Com, Axios, 22 Sept. 2025, www.axios.com/2025/09/22/republicans-aca-tax-credit-changes.
“The Estimated Effects of Enacting Selected Health Coverage Policies on the Federal Budget and on the Number of People With Health Insurance.” Cbo.Gov, Congressional Budget Office, 18 Sept. 2025, www.cbo.gov/publication/61734.
What the Stay on 2025 ACA Final Rule Changes Means
Ortaliza, Jared, Anna Cord, et al. “Inflation Reduction Act Health Insurance Subsidies: What Is Their Impact and What Would Happen If They Expire?” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/inflation-reduction-act-health-insurance-subsidies-what-is-their-impact-and-what-would-happen-if-they-expire/.
More Episodes Like This One:
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Friday Sep 19, 2025
Friday Sep 19, 2025
The Friday Five for September 19, 2025:
Wrapping up the 2025 Ritter Summits
Compliant Compensation for Medicare Sales, Renewals, or Services
New Features for Spotify Free & Premium
Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert… Otrovert?
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Ritter Resources:
Download eBooks and Guides
Read the Ritter Blog
Register for Events and Webinars
Compliant Compensation for Medicare Sales, Renewals, or Services:
“Burden of Proof.” Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law, www.law.cornell.edu/wex/burden_of_proof. Accessed 19 Sept. 2025.
Hurson, Brendan A. “City of Columbus Et Al. vs. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Et Al.” Democracyforward.Org, Democracy Forward, 22 Aug. 2025, democracyforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/35-City-of-Columbus-memorandum-opinion.pdf.
Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V/section-422.2274. Accessed 17 Sept. 2025.
Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V/section-423.2274. Accessed 17 Sept. 2025.
“Preponderance of the Evidence.” Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law, www.law.cornell.edu/wex/preponderance_of_the_evidence. Accessed 19 Sept. 2025.
New Features for Spotify Free & Premium:
“7 Ways Spotify’s New User Controls Put You in Charge of Your Listening.” For the Record, Spotify, 8 Sept. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-09-05/new-user-controls-personalize-listening/.
Shanklin, Will. “Free Spotify Users Can Finally Listen to Any Track Immediately.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 15 Sept. 2025, www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/free-spotify-users-can-finally-listen-to-any-track-immediately-130013081.html.
“Lossless Listening Arrives on Spotify Premium With a Richer, More Detailed Listening Experience.” For the Record, Spotify, 10 Sept. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-09-10/lossless-listening-arrives-on-spotify-premium-with-a-richer-more-detailed-listening-experience/.
Connellan, Shannon. “Spotify’s Free Users Can Now Search and Play Songs with Ease.” Mashable.Com, Mashable, 16 Sept. 2025, mashable.com/article/spotify-free-search-play-songs.
“Spotify’s Free Experience Is Even Better—Here’s How to Make the Most of It.” For the Record, Spotify, 15 Sept. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-09-15/free-experience-updates-features-tips/.
Mehta, Ivan. “Spotify Is Finally Launching Support for Lossless Music Streaming.” TechCrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 10 Sept. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/09/10/spotify-is-finally-launching-support-for-lossless-music-streaming/.
Rogers, Tammy. “Spotify Lossless Just Dropped — Here’s How It Compares to Apple Music, Tidal and Other High-Res Services.” Tomsguide.Com, Tom’s Guide, 15 Sept. 2025, www.tomsguide.com/entertainment/music-streaming/streaming-quality-everything-you-need-to-know-about-your-favorite-music-streamer.
Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert… Otrovert?
“A Deeper Dive into Otrovert Traits.” Theothernessinstitute.Com, The Otherness Institute, www.othernessinstitute.com/in-other-words/a-deeper-dive-into-otrovert-traits/. Accessed 17 Sept. 2025.
Burke, Olivia. “Expert Explains New ‘Otrovert’ Personality Type and It’s Very Different to Introverts or Extroverts.” LADbible.Com, LADbible, 12 Sept. 2025, www.ladbible.com/community/personality-type-otrovert-explained-dr-rami-kaminski-378511-20250912.
Kaminski, Rami. “‘Otroverts’ and Why Nonconformists Often See What Others Can’t.” Bigthink.Com, Big Think, 2 July 2025, bigthink.com/big-think-books/otrovert/.
Mendoza, Luis Felipe. “The Otrovert, New Personality Type Identified by Psychiatrists.” Colombia One, colombiaone.com, 16 Sept. 2025, colombiaone.com/2025/09/16/otrovert-new-personality/.
Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT:
“Integrity Announces IntegrityCONNECT, an All-in-One Technology Growth Engine for Agents and Agencies.” Integrity.Com, Integrity, 17 Sept. 2025, integrity.com/announcingintegrityconnect/.
IntegrityCONNECT Agent Learning Center
List of IntegrityCONNECT Training Webinars
More Episodes Like This One:
5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
How Insurance Agents Can Use AI Tools
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Monday Sep 15, 2025
Monday Sep 15, 2025
Discover Ritter Insurance Marketing's resource hub for surviving AEP 2026!
Make This Your Best AEP Yet!
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Friday Sep 12, 2025
Friday Sep 12, 2025
The Friday Five for September 12, 2025:
Ritter Summit Takeaways Part 2
Are Brokers Still in the Crosshairs? Policy and Market Updates for 2026
2026 Medicare & You Handbook
Release Date for iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, and WatchOS 26
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment
Ritter Summit Takeaways Part 2:
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits
Are Brokers Still in the Crosshairs? Policy and Market Updates for 2026:
Watch the Webinar
2026 Medicare & You Handbook:
Download Your Copy
Release Date for iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, and WatchOS 26:
Peters, Jay. “iOS 26 Is out on September 15th.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 9 Sept. 2025, www.theverge.com/news/770784/apple-ios-26-release-date-liquid-glass.
McAuliffe, Zachary. “I Was Right Yet Again: iOS 26 Is Coming Monday, Sept. 15.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 9 Sept. 2025, www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/i-was-right-yet-again-ios-26-is-coming-monday-sept-15/.
Perry, Alex. “Apple iOS 26 Release Date: When You Can Download It.” Mashable.Com, Mashable, 9 Sept. 2025, mashable.com/article/apple-ios-26-release-date-how-to-download.
Diaz, Maria. “iOS 26 Update Is Coming Soon - How to Download It (and Which iPhones Support It).” Zdnet.Com, ZDNET, 10 Sept. 2025, www.zdnet.com/article/ios-26-update-is-coming-soon-how-to-download-it-and-which-iphones-support-it/.
Teague, Katie. “iOS 26: What to Know about the Free iPhone Software Update Arriving September 15.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 11 Sept. 2025, www.engadget.com/mobile/ios-26-what-to-know-about-the-free-iphone-software-update-arriving-september-15-135749658.html.
CMS & HHS Expand ACA Catastrophic Coverage Enrollment:
August 22, 2025 Friday Five: Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit
“By the Numbers: House Bill Takes Health Coverage Away From Millions of People and Raises Families’ Health Care Costs.” Cbpp.Org, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, www.cbpp.org/research/health/by-the-numbers-house-bill-takes-health-coverage-away-from-millions-of-people-and. Accessed 11 Sept. 2025.
“CMS Broadens Access to Catastrophic Exchange Plans.” Modernhealthcare.Com, Modern Healthcare, 4 Sept. 2025, www.modernhealthcare.com/politics-regulation/mh-catastrophic-health-plans-open-enrollment-2026/.
“Entities Approved to Use Enhanced Direct Enrollment.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Aug. 2024, www.cms.gov/files/document/ede-approved-partner.pdf.
Reed, Tina. “Exclusive: HHS to Expand Eligibility for Catastrophic Plans.” Axios.Com, Axios, 4 Sept. 2025, www.axios.com/2025/09/04/trump-hhs-expand-catastrophic-plan-eligibility.
“Expanding Access to Health Insurance: Consumers to Gain Access to ‘Catastrophic’ Health Insurance Plans in 2026 Plan Year.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/expanding-access-health-insurance-consumers-gain-access-catastrophic-health-insurance-plans-2026.
“Guidance on Hardship Exemptions for Individuals Ineligible for Advance Payment of the Premium Tax Credit or Cost-Sharing Reductions Due to Income, and Streamlining Exemption Pathways to Coverage.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/files/document/guidance-hardship-exemptions.pdf.
“HHS Expands Access to Affordable Health Insurance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-expands-access-affordable-health-insurance.
“HHS Expands Access to Affordable Health Insurance.” HHS.Gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 4 Sept. 2025, www.hhs.gov/press-room/hhs-expands-access-affordable-catastrophic-health-coverage.html.
Ortaliza, Jared, Matt McGough, Kaitlyn Vu, et al. “How Much and Why ACA Marketplace Premiums Are Going up in 2026.” Healthsystemtracker.Org, KFF, 6 Aug. 2025, www.healthsystemtracker.org/brief/how-much-and-why-aca-marketplace-premiums-are-going-up-in-2026/.
Minemyer, Paige. “Trump Administration Expands Access to ACA Catastrophic Plans.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 4 Sept. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/trump-administration-expands-access-aca-catastrophic-plans.
Resources:
2026 ACA & Medicare Cost Projections
3 Benefits of Selling ACA Insurance Plans
5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe
2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
The Survivor’s AEP Checklist
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Tuesday Sep 09, 2025
Tuesday Sep 09, 2025
Discover the benefits to selling hospital indemnity plans!
Download Your FREE Copy – The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Understanding Hospital Indemnity Policies
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
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.
Friday Sep 05, 2025
Friday Sep 05, 2025
This week, we tackle 5 Medicare myths that your clients may believe. Learn how to respectfully refute these myths, educate your clients, and empower them to make informed choices.
The Content Library from Ritter Insurance Marketing
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Medicare Basics Resources on the Content Library*:
How and When Can I Change Medicare Insurance Plans?*
The Basics of Medicare Insurance*
What is Original Medicare? *
What is Medicare Part C (Advantage)? *
What is Medicare Part D? *
What are Medicare Supplements? *
Additional Podcast Episodes & Resources:
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media
Apps for Content Creation
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents ft. Lisa Lynch and Jeff Snyder
Medicare Advantage Trial Rights Explained for Agents
What New Insurance Agents Need to Know
What to Know When Replacing Existing Med Supp Plans for Clients
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/
*Requires RitterIM.com registration & login
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Friday Aug 29, 2025
Friday Aug 29, 2025
The Friday Five for August 29, 2025:
Ritter Summits Takeaways & Shoutouts
What I’m Watching Right Now
Apple “Awe Dropping” Event Announced
Spotify Slips Into the DMs
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Ritter Summits Takeaways & Shoutouts:
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits
What I’m Watching Right Now:
The Residence on Netflix
Apple “Awe Dropping” Event Announced:
Esposito, Filipe. “5 iPhone 17 Rumors Apple Basically Confirmed in Its ‘Awe Dropping’ Event Invite.” Macworld.Com, Macworld, 27 Aug. 2025, www.macworld.com/article/2889966/5-iphone-17-rumors-apple-just-confirmed-in-its-awe-dropping-event-invite.html.
Lord, Sarah. “Apple’s ‘Awe Dropping’ iPhone 17 Event: What to Expect and How to Watch.” PCMAG.Com, PCMAG, 27 Aug. 2025, www.pcmag.com/news/apple-awe-dropping-iphone-17-event-what-to-expect-how-to-watch.
Hall, Zac. “Apple Officially Announces iPhone 17 Event: ‘Awe Dropping.’” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 26 Aug. 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/08/26/iphone-17-event-announcement-2/.
Carlson, Jeff. “Deciphering Apple’s ‘Awe Dropping’ iPhone 17 Event Invite.” CNET.Com, CNET, 27 Aug. 2025, www.cnet.com/tech/deciphering-apples-awe-dropping-iphone-17-event-invite/.
Hardwick, Tim. “What Not to Expect at Apple’s ‘Awe Dropping’ September 9 Event.” MacRumors.Com, MacRumors, 28 Aug. 2025, www.macrumors.com/2025/08/28/what-not-to-expect-apple-iphone-17-event/.
Spotify Slips Into the DMs:
“Introducing Messages, A New Way To Share What You Love on Spotify with Friends and Family.” Newsroom.Spotify.Com, Spotify, 26 Aug. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-08-26/introducing-messages-a-new-way-to-share-what-you-love-on-spotify-with-friends-and-family/.
Schneider, Marc. “Spotify’s DMS Are Open.” Billboard.Com, Billboard, 26 Aug. 2025, www.billboard.com/pro/spotify-messages-app-sharing-dms-feature/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Spotify Is Adding DMS.” TheVerge.Com, The Verge, 26 Aug. 2025, https://www.theverge.com/news/765771/spotify-messages-dms-audio-sharing-feature.
Spangler, Todd. “Spotify Launches In-App Messaging, Hoping New DM Feature Will Boost Listening and ‘Drive Hype.’” Variety.Com, Variety, 26 Aug. 2025, variety.com/2025/digital/news/spotify-launches-in-app-messaging-1236497588/.
Judge Grants Stay on Many 2025 ACA Final Rule Provisions:
Hurson, Brendan A. “City of Columbus Et Al. vs. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Et Al.” Democracyforward.Org, Democracy Forward, 22 Aug. 2025, democracyforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/35-City-of-Columbus-memorandum-opinion.pdf.
Minemyer, Paige. “Courts Press Pause on Key Elements of Trump Administration’s ACA Rule.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 25 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/courts-press-pause-key-elements-trump-administrations-aca-rule.
Bruner, Bethany. “Federal Judge Halts Implementation of Health Insurance Changes in Lawsuit Columbus Filed.” Dispatch.Com, The Columbus Dispatch, 25 Aug. 2025, www.dispatch.com/story/news/courts/2025/08/22/federal-judge-halts-trump-administration-health-insurance-rules-columbus-ohio-lawsuit-aca-obamacare/85782252007/.
“Healthcare.Gov’s Marketplace in Your State.” HealthCare.Gov, HealthCare.gov, www.healthcare.gov/marketplace-in-your-state/. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.
Pifer, Rebecca. “Judge Stays Provisions of Trump Administration Rule Overhauling ACA.” Healthcare Dive, healthcaredive.com, 25 Aug. 2025, www.healthcaredive.com/news/trump-affordable-care-act-rule-stay-cms/758474/.
Clason, Lauren. “RFK Jr.’s Obamacare Changes Partially Paused by Federal Judge.” Bloomberglaw.Com, Bloomberg Law, 22 Aug. 2025, news.bloomberglaw.com/health-law-and-business/rfk-jr-s-obamacare-changes-partially-paused-by-federal-judge.
Oeschner, Troy, et al. “What’s at Stake in California v. Kennedy?” Rockinst.Org, Rockefeller Institute of Government, 22 Aug. 2025, www.rockinst.org/blog/whats-at-stake-in-california-v-kennedy/.
Resources:
3 Benefits of Selling ACA Insurance Plans
5 Things About ICHRA
2026 ACA & Medicare Cost Projections
ACA Enrollment Periods Explained
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover
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.
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
We're back with another update on Ritter's Content Library - Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage! This time, Sarah and Jeff chat about how this content can help agents educate clients about the ins and outs of their Medicare coverage.
📚Browse Ritter Insurance Marketing’s Content Library for Insurance Agents
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Resources:
5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out in a Crowd
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media
Field Notes on Partner Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources
Field Notes on Traditional Marketing Resources
How Relationship Marketing Can Make the Difference in Your Agency
Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents
Learning to Delight in the Limelight ft. Linda Ugelow
Reach out to Ritter’s Compliance Team
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Friday Aug 22, 2025
Friday Aug 22, 2025
The Friday Five for August 22, 2025:
Field Notes on OBBBA, Spotify, and TikTok
D. Power Medicare Advantage Member Satisfaction Survey
Sonder Health Plans Inc. Termination
Short-Term Medical Plan Regulation Update
Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit
Get Connected:
📞Contact Ritter’s Team in Georgia – Steve Telander, Jada Morthland, and Betsy Bond!
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Field Notes on OBBBA:
5 Things From the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill
The One Big Beautiful Bill: What Health Insurance Agents Should Know
Field Notes on Spotify:
“Mix Your Favorite Playlists Seamlessly by Adding Your Own Transitions.” Newsroom.Spotify.Com, Spotify, 19 Aug. 2025, newsroom.spotify.com/2025-08-19/mix-your-favorite-playlists-seamlessly-by-adding-your-own-transitions/.
Romero, Andrew. “Spotify Is Doubling down on Track Transitions with New Custom Options.” 9to5google.Com, 9to5google, 19 Aug. 2025, 9to5google.com/2025/08/19/spotify-custom-playlist-transitions/.
Perez, Sarah. “Spotify’s Latest Feature Lets You Add Your Own Transitions to Playlists.” TechCrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 19 Aug. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/08/19/spotifys-latest-feature-lets-you-add-your-own-transitions-to-playlists/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Spotify’s New Track Mixing Tool Adds DJ Features to Your Playlists.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 19 Aug. 2025, www.theverge.com/news/761290/spotify-playlist-mix-audio-transition-feature.
Mauran, Cecily. “Spotify Now Allows Custom Transitions in Playlists.” Mashable.Com, Mashable, 19 Aug. 2025, mashable.com/article/spotify-custom-transitions-in-playlists.
Field Notes on TikTok:
West, Chloe. “TikTok Hashtags: How to Use the Best Hashtags for More Views in 2025.” Sproutsocial.Com, Sprout Social, 14 Aug. 2025, sproutsocial.com/insights/tiktok-hashtags/.
Hutchinson, Andrew. “TikTok Implements Hashtag Limit.” Socialmediatoday.Com, Social Media Today, 17 Aug. 2025, www.socialmediatoday.com/news/tiktok-implements-five-hashtag-limit-per-post/757857/.
Adegbola, Anu. “TikTok Limits Posts to Five Hashtags.” Searchengineland.Com, Search Engine Land, 18 Aug. 2025, searchengineland.com/tiktok-limits-hashtags-460894.
J.D. Power Medicare Advantage Member Satisfaction Survey:
“2025 U.S. Medicare Advantage Study.” Jdpower.Com, J.D. Power, 19 Aug. 2025, www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-medicare-advantage-study.
“J.D. Power: Medicare Advantage Headwinds Impacting Member Satisfaction.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 19 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/jd-power-medicare-advantage-headwinds-impacting-member-satisfaction.
Payerchin, Richard. “Medicare Advantage Policy Changes Fuel Confusion, Skepticism among Beneficiaries.” Edited by Todd Shryock, MedicalEconomics.Com, MedicalEconomics, 19 Aug. 2025, www.medicaleconomics.com/view/medicare-advantage-policy-changes-fuel-confusion-skepticism-among-beneficiaries.
Sonder Health Plans Inc. Termination:
Contact Ritter’s Team in Georgia – Steve Telander, Jada Morthland, and Betsy Bond!
“Important Announcement Regarding Sonder Health Plans, Inc.” Oci.Eorgia.Gov, Georgie Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Fire Safety, oci.georgia.gov/press-releases/2025-08-15/important-announcement-regarding-sonder-health-plans-inc. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.
“Sonder Health Plans, Inc. - In Receivership.” Sonderhealthplans-Inreceivership.Com, Sonder Health Plans, sonderhealthplans-inreceivership.com/. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.
Short-Term Medical Plan Regulation Update:
“Federal Agencies Signal a Shift in Enforcement of Short-Term Health Insurance Rules.” Aha.Org, American Hospital Association, 8 Aug. 2025, www.aha.org/news/headline/2025-08-08-federal-agencies-signal-shift-enforcement-short-term-health-insurance-rules.
“Short-Term Health Insurance Availability and Limits by State.” Healthinsurance.Org, healthinsurance.org, 15 Aug. 2025, www.healthinsurance.org/short-term-health-insurance/.
“Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance and Independent, Noncoordinated Excepted Benefits Coverage.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, 3 Apr. 2024, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/04/03/2024-06551/short-term-limited-duration-insurance-and-independent-noncoordinated-excepted-benefits-coverage.
“Statement of U.S. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury Regarding Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 7 Aug. 2025, www.cms.gov/files/document/statement-regarding-short-term-limited-duration-insurance.pdf.
Judge Vacates HHS MA Commissions Lawsuit:
O’Conner, Reed. “Americans for Beneficiary Choice & Council for Medicare Choice vs. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.” Gove.Uscourts.Com, U.S. District Court, 18 Aug. 2025, storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.txnd.389767/gov.uscourts.txnd.389767.62.0.pdf.
“Judge Vacates Medicare Advantage Marketing Rule Provisions.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 19 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/judge-vacates-medicare-advantage-marketing-rule-provisions.
Resources:
2025 MA Enrollment Stats & Trends
2026 ACA & Medicare Cost Projections
2026 Midwest D-SNP Market Opportunity
2026 D-SNP Market Snapshot
5 Things About ICHRA
Americans for Beneficiary Choice Wins Medicare Advantage Broker Compensation Ruling Lawsuit
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.
Friday Aug 15, 2025
Friday Aug 15, 2025
The Friday Five for August 15, 2025:
Threads, Waze, AEP Countdown
CMS 2026 Medicare Part D Bid Information
Medicare Part B Cost Projections
2026 COLA Estimate
CY2026 ACA Premium Rate Filings
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Threads, Waze, AEP Countdown:
“Number of Threads Users.” Backlinko.Com, Backlinko, 17 July 2025, backlinko.com/threads-users.
Mendes, Marcus. “Threads Crosses 400M Monthly Active Users as It Gains on X.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 13 Aug. 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/08/12/threads-crosses-400m-monthly-active-users-as-it-gains-on-x/.
Price, Emily. “Threads Just Achieved Its Biggest Milestone Yet.” FastCompany.Com, Fast Company, 12 Aug. 2025, www.fastcompany.com/91384230/meta-threads-just-achieved-its-biggest-milestone-yet.
Malik, Aisha. “Threads Now Has More than 400 Million Monthly Active Users.” TechCrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 12 Aug. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/08/12/threads-now-has-more-than-400-million-monthly-active-users/.
“Waze Will End Updates for Older Android Devices Soon.” 9to5google.Com, Google, 11 Aug. 2025, 9to5google.com/2025/08/11/waze-will-end-updates-for-older-android-devices-soon/.
CMS 2026 Medicare Part D Bid Information:
“2026 Medicare Part D Bid Information and Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration Parameters.” CMS.Gov, CMS, 28 July 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2026-medicare-part-d-bid-information-and-part-d-premium-stabilization-demonstration-parameters.
2026 Medicare Part D Bid Info Likely Means Higher Premiums & Plan Disruption — Here's Why
The 2026 Medicare Part D Redesign Updates Agents Should Know
Medicare Part B Cost Projections:
“2025 Medicare Trustees Report.” CMS.Gov, CMS, 18 June 2025, www.cms.gov/oact/tr/2025.
LeValley, Donna. “Seven Medicare Changes Coming in 2026.” Kiplinger.Com, Kiplinger, 8 Aug. 2025, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/medicare/medicare-changes-coming-in-2026.
2026 COLA Estimate:
“2025 Medicare Trustees Report.” CMS.Gov, CMS, 18 June 2025, www.cms.gov/oact/tr/2025.
LeValley, Donna. “Seven Medicare Changes Coming in 2026.” Kiplinger.Com, Kiplinger, 8 Aug. 2025, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/medicare/medicare-changes-coming-in-2026.
CY2026 ACA Premium Rate Filings:
Minemyer, Paige. “KFF Analysis Finds a Median ACA Premium Hike of 18% for 2026.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, FierceHealthcare, 8 Aug. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/kff-analysis-finds-median-aca-premium-hike-18-2026.
Ortaliza, Jared, Matt McGough, Kaitlyn Vu, et al. “How Much and Why ACA Marketplace Premiums Are Going up in 2026.” Healthsystemtracker.Org, KFF, 6 Aug. 2025, www.healthsystemtracker.org/brief/how-much-and-why-aca-marketplace-premiums-are-going-up-in-2026/.
Resources:
5 Things About ICHRA
2026 D-SNP Market Snapshot
2026 Midwest D-SNP Market Opportunity
Ritter Insurance Marketing Certification Center
Should You Hire an Assistant for Your Insurance Business?
What New Insurance Agents Need to Know
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.