Agent Survival Guide Podcast
The Friday Five
Episodes
Friday May 31, 2024
Friday May 31, 2024
The Friday Five for May 31, 2024:
Medicare Sales Planner & ACA Agent Calendar
The Fitbit Ace LTE
New Study on AI Adoption
KFF Health Policy 101 Resource
AHIP 2025 Certification Dates
How do you like to learn? Answer this week’s question of the week here: https://bit.ly/asgquestion
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
[01:39] Medicare Sales Planner & ACA Agent Calendar:
ACA Agent Sales Calendar PDF: https://ritterim.com/documents/the-busy-aca-agents-sales-calendar.pdf
Increase Sales and Productivity with the Busy Medicare Agent’s Sales Planner: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG570
Medicare Agent Sales Planner PDF: https://ritterim.com/documents/busy-medicare-agent-sales-planner.pdf
Stay Organized with the Busy ACA Agent’s Sales Calendar: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG571
[02:39] Fitbit Ace LTE:
Google announced a smartwatch for kids — and it looks pretty good: https://www.businessinsider.com/google-smartwatch-kids-fitbit-ace-lte-2024-5
Introducing Fitbit Ace LTE: the smartwatch kids and parents will both love: https://blog.google/products/fitbit/fitbit-ace-lte-smartwatch-kids/
Smartwatches Can Learn a Lot From Fitbit's New Kid-Focused Watch: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/smartwatches-can-learn-a-lot-from-fitbits-new-kid-focused-watch/
The Fitbit Ace LTE is like a Nintendo smartwatch for kids: https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/29/24166168/fitbit-ace-lte-kids-smartwatch-wearables
[06:22] New Study on AI Adoption:
AI products like ChatGPT much hyped but not much used, study says: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c511x4g7x7jo
Hardly any of us are using AI tools like ChatGPT, study says – here’s why: https://www.techradar.com/computing/artificial-intelligence/hardly-any-of-us-are-using-ai-tools-like-chatgpt-study-says-heres-why
What does the public in six countries think of generative AI in news? https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/what-does-public-six-countries-think-generative-ai-news
[10:29] KFF Health Policy 101:
Full Resource: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101/
KFF's Health Policy 101 Chapters:
The Affordable Care Act: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-the-affordable-care-act/
Congress, the Executive Branch, and Health Policy: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-congress-and-the-executive-branch-and-health-policy/
Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-employer-sponsored-health-insurance/
Health Care Costs and Affordability: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-health-care-costs-and-affordability/
Health Policy Issues in Women's Health: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-health-policy-issues-in-womens-health/
International Comparison of Health Systems: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-international-comparison-of-health-systems/
Medicaid: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-medicaid/
Medicare: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-medicare/
Race, Inequality, and Health: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-race-inequality-and-health/
The Politics of Health Care and the 2024 Election: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-the-politics-of-health-care-and-the-2024-election/
The Regulation of Private Health Insurance: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-the-regulation-of-private-health-insurance/
The Uninsured Population and Health Coverage: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-the-uninsured-population-and-health-coverage/
The U.S. Government and Global Health: https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-the-u-s-government-and-global-health/
[14:27] AHIP 2025 Certification Dates:
AHIP Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Online Course Site: https://www.ahipmedicaretraining.com/
Resources:
5 Social Media Trends for Insurance Agents in 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240524
9 Essential Tools for Beginner Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG595
AI Highlights from Google I/O 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240517
Best Free Note-Taking Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA60
Best Free Writing & Grammar Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA58
Knight School Online Video Training Library: https://ritterim.com/knight-school/
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 (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday May 24, 2024
Friday May 24, 2024
How do recent social media trends work (or not work!) for insurance agents? Sarah and Tina discuss the latest trends to help agents with their social strategies. Listen ‘til the end for a special invitation to a comprehensive social media marketing event tailored specifically to agents.
Register for the Webinar - How to Market Yourself Online: https://bit.ly/marketyourself2024
Don’t forget to answer this week’s question of the week: https://bit.ly/asgquestion
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
AI Highlights from Google I/O 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240517
Best Free Note-Taking Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA60
How AI Chat Bots Can Assist with Marketing & Social Media: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA20230809
How to Keep Social Media Professional and Personal Simultaneously: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG443
Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents: https://ritterim.com/social-media-ebook/
References:
11 social media trends you need to know in 2024: https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-media-trends/
12 Emerging Social Media Trends in 2024: https://www.cmswire.com/digital-experience/12-emerging-social-media-trends-in-2024/
2024 Digital Media Trends: https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/technology/digital-media-trends-consumption-habits-survey.html
Social Media Trends 2024: https://www.hootsuite.com/research/social-trends
The HubSpot Blog's 2024 Social Media Marketing Report: Data from 1400+ Global Marketers: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/hubspot-blog-social-media-marketing-report
The Top Marketing Trends of 2024 & How They've Changed Since 2023 [Data from 1400+ Global Marketers]: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/marketing-trends
THIS is how social media will change in 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAyUPsJ4JWY
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 (fka Twitter), https://twitter.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/
Friday May 17, 2024
Friday May 17, 2024
The Friday Five for May 17, 2024:
Camp Ritter Employee Training Event Next Week
Talkspace Official Enters Medicare Market
IRS Announces HSA & HDHP Amounts for CY 2025
Apple Announces New Accessibility Features
Highlights from 2024 Google I/O Conference
How comfortable are you with AI? Answer this week’s question of the week: https://bit.ly/asgquestion
Talkspace Officially Enters Medicare Market:
Online therapy covered by Medicare: https://www.talkspace.com/coverage/insurance/medicare
Talkspace Expands Access to Tele-Mental Healthcare With Medicare Launch: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240514596587/en/Talkspace-Expands-Access-to-Tele-Mental-Healthcare-With-Medicare-Launch
Talkspace expands online mental health therapy to millions of Medicare members: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/digital-health/talkspace-expands-online-therapy-millions-medicare-members
Talkspace rolls out teletherapy access to 13 million Medicare members: https://vator.tv/news/2024-05-14-talkspace-rolls-out-teletherapy-access-to-13-million-medicare-members
Virtual Mental Health Provider Talkspace Taps Into Medicare Market: https://bhbusiness.com/2024/05/14/virtual-mental-health-provider-talkspace-taps-into-medicare-market/
IRS Announces HSA and HDHP Amounts for CY 2025:
IRS Announces 2025 HSA, HDHP Limits: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/benefits-compensation/irs-announces-2025-hsa--hdhp-limits
IRS announces HSA, HDHP limits for 2025: https://www.benefitspro.com/2024/05/13/irs-announces-hsa-hdhp-limits-for-2025/
IRS releases HSA and high-deductible health plan limits for 2025: https://global.lockton.com/us/en/news-insights/irs-releases-hsa-and-high-deductible-health-plan-limits-for-2025
Savings Boost: IRS Raises HSA Contribution Limits for 2025: https://www.hrmorning.com/news/irs-announces-new-hsa-contribution-limits/
Apple Announces New Accessibility Features:
Apple announces new accessibility features, including Eye Tracking, Music Haptics, and Vocal Shortcuts: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/05/apple-announces-new-accessibility-features-including-eye-tracking/
Apple’s new accessibility features let you control an iPhone or iPad with your eyes: https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/15/24157271/apple-eye-tracking-speech-motion-sickness-accessibility-features
Highlights from 2024 Google I/O Conference:
Google I/O 2024 – the 7 biggest AI announcements, from Gemini to Android 15: https://www.techradar.com/phones/android/the-7-biggest-ai-announcements-from-google-io-2024
Google I/O 2024: Everything revealed including Gemini AI, Android 15 and more: https://www.engadget.com/google-io-2024-everything-revealed-including-gemini-ai-android-15-and-more-210414423.html
Google now offers ‘web’ search — and an AI opt-out button: https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/14/24074314/google-now-offers-web-search
Resources:
5 Alternative Apps to Replace Google Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240329
Best Free Writing & Grammar Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA58
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Greater Access to Health Coverage for DACA Recipients: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240510
Interview: The 5 Pillars of Integrity: https://ritterim.com/blog/interview-the-5-pillars-of-integrity/
Interview: Training Opportunities for Agents at Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://ritterim.com/blog/interview-training-opportunities-for-agents-at-ritter-insurance-marketing/
Ready to Join an FMO? 10 Things to Consider: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG593
The Best Books for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG590
Tips for Becoming a Top Producing Insurance Agency: https://ritterim.com/blog/tips-for-becoming-a-top-producing-insurance-agency/
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 (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday May 10, 2024
Friday May 10, 2024
The Friday Five for May 10, 2024:
Summer 2024 Menus from Dunkin’ & Starbucks
What Apple Announced at their "Let Loose" Event
CMS Update on ACA Unauthorized Enrollment & Switching
Medicare Trust Fund Solvency Extended Through 2036
Greater Access to Health Coverage for DACA Recipients
Are you Team Dunkin’ or Team Starbucks? Choose your side in this week’s ASG Podcast Question of the Week: https://bit.ly/asgquestion
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Summer 2024 Menus from Dunkin’ & Starbucks:
Dunkin’ Unleashes Its Sips Of Summer: Debuts Kiwi Watermelon Dunkin’ Refresher With $3 Deal For Rewards Members: https://news.dunkindonuts.com/news/early-summer-menu-2024
Summer’s On at Starbucks with New Summer-Berry Starbucks Refreshers Beverages: https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2024/summers-on-at-starbucks-with-new-summer-berry-starbucks-refreshers-beverages/
What Apple Announced at their "Let Loose" Event:
Apple iPad event: all the news from Apple’s ‘Let Loose’ reveal: https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/7/24150047/apple-ipad-let-loose-event-news-announcements
Everything announced at Apple's Let Loose iPad event: https://www.engadget.com/everything-announced-at-apples-let-loose-ipad-event-161005007.html
Everything Apple unveiled at its 'Let Loose' event: iPad Pro, Air, Pencil, M4, and more: https://www.zdnet.com/article/everything-apple-unveiled-at-its-let-loose-event-ipad-pro-air-pencil-m4-and-more/
Here’s Everything Apple Announced at Its 'Let Loose' iPad Event: https://gizmodo.com/everything-announced-at-apple-let-loose-ipad-event-1851461307
CMS Update on ACA Unauthorized Enrollment & Switching:
Alert: Unauthorized Agent and Broker Activity on ACA Marketplace: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/agent-broker-infographic-2024-final.pdf
CMS Statement on Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity, Update: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-statement-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity-update
CMS Statement on Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-statement-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity
Medicare Trust Fund Solvency Extended Through 2036:
2024 Medicare Trustees Report: https://www.cms.gov/oact/tr/2024
Fact Sheet: 2024 Social Security and Medicare Trustees Reports: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/TR-2024-Fact-Sheet.pdf
Medicare hospital trust fund extended by 5 years to 2036: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/medicare-hospital-trust-fund-extended-five-years-2036
Medicare Trust Fund Extends Solvency Another 5 Years: https://www.ajmc.com/view/medicare-trust-fund-extends-solvency-another-5-years
Medicare Hospital Trust Fund to Stay Solvent Until 2036, Trustees' Report Says: https://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/medicare/109997
Medicare Posts $12B Loss for 2023: https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2024/05/07/medicare-posts-12b-loss-for-2023/
Greater Access to Health Coverage for DACA Recipients:
Biden-Harris Administration Finalizes Policies to Increase Access to Health Coverage for DACA Recipients: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-finalizes-policies-increase-access-health-coverage-daca-recipients
Clarifying the Eligibility of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Recipients and Certain Other Noncitizens for a Qualified Health Plan through an Exchange, Advance Payments of the Premium Tax Credit, Cost-Sharing Reductions, and a Basic Health Program: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/05/08/2024-09661/clarifying-the-eligibility-of-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals-daca-recipients-and-certain
HHS Final Rule Clarifying the Eligibility of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Recipients and Certain Other Noncitizens: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-final-rule-clarifying-eligibility-deferred-action-childhood-arrivals-daca-recipients-and-certain
Resources:
2024 State of the Senior Market Address: In Review: https://ritterim.com/blog/2024-state-of-the-senior-market-address-in-review/
The Best Books for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG590
Best Free Writing & Grammar Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA58
DOJ to Reschedule Marijuana: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240503
How Agents Can Protect Clients from Unauthorized ACA Plan Switching: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-agents-can-protect-clients-for-unauthorized-aca-plan-switching/
How to Recruit Agents to Your Downline in 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG588
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 (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday May 03, 2024
Friday May 03, 2024
The Friday Five for May 3, 2024:
iPhone Silent Alarm Bug Fix
LinkedIn: Gaming & X Replacement?
FOMC April/May 2024 Meeting
Walmart Health to Shut Down
DOJ to Reschedule Marijuana
Which NYT game is your favorite? Answer our ASG Podcast question of the week here: https://bit.ly/asgquestion
iPhone Alarms Bug:
Apple confirms bug that is keeping some iPhone alarms from sounding: https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/04/apple-confirms-bug-that-is-keeping-some-iphone-alarms-from-sounding/
If your iPhone alarm has gone quiet, Apple says it’s working on a fix: https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/30/24145296/apple-iphone-alarm-sounds-broken-ios-bug-fix-coming
Ring the alarm bells, the iPhone alarm isn’t working: https://techcrunch.com/2024/04/30/ring-the-alarm-bells-the-iphone-alarm-isnt-working/
LinkedIn: Gaming & X Replacement?
LinkedIn is the latest company to get in on gaming: https://www.theverge.com/24145605/linkedin-gaming-puzzle-game-nyt-wordle-netflix-games
LinkedIn is the Twitter/X rival no one is talking about: https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/01/linkedin-is-the-twitter-x-rival-no-one-is-talking-about/
LinkedIn launches gaming: 3 logic puzzles aimed at extending time spent on its networking platform: https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/01/linkedin-launches-gaming-three-logic-puzzles-aiming-to-extend-time-spent-on-its-networking-platform/
FOMC April/May 2024 Meeting:
Consumer Price Index - March 2024: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf/
Personal Income and Outlays, March 2024: https://www.bea.gov/news/2024/personal-income-and-outlays-march-2024
Fed announces reduction in balance sheet runoff pace: https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/fed-announces-reduction-balance-sheet-runoff-pace-2024-05-01/
Fed holds interest rates at 23-year high as inflation continues to push back timing of a rate cut: https://www.cnn.com/business/live-news/markets-federal-reserve-meeting-05-01-24/index.html
Fed meeting recap: Powell pretty much rules out a hike as the central bank’s next move: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/01/fed-meeting-today-live-updates-on-may-fed-rate-decision.html
Federal Open Market Committee Meeting Schedule: https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm
The Fed rate decision meeting is today. Here's their rate decision. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/federal-reserve-interest-rate-meeting-may-1-2024/
Walmart Health to Shut Down:
Walmart closing health care clinics, ending virtual services: https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4632752-walmart-closing-health-care-clinics-ending-virtual-services/
Walmart Health Is Closing: https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/04/30/walmart-health-is-closing
Walmart shuttering all 51 health centers, citing lack of profitability: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/providers/walmart-shuttering-all-51-health-centers-virtual-care
Walmart will close all of its health care clinics: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/30/business/walmart-closes-health-clinics/index.html
DOJ to Reschedule Marijuana:
Biden gives cannabis industry a badly needed win: https://www.axios.com/2024/05/01/biden-marijuana-reclassification-cannabis-industry
Drug Scheduling: https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling
Justice Dept plans to reschedule marijuana as a lower-risk drug: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/30/economy/dea-marijuana-rescheduling/index.html
Justice Dept. Recommends Easing Restrictions on Marijuana: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/30/us/politics/justice-department-reclassify-marijuana.html
US moves to reclassify marijuana in historic shift: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-68932612
US poised to ease restrictions on marijuana in historic shift, but it’ll remain controlled substance: https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-biden-dea-criminal-justice-pot-f833a8dae6ceb31a8658a5d65832a3b8
What rescheduling marijuana would look like: https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4634174-rescheduling-marijuana-look-like/
Resources:
5 Alternative Apps to Replace Google Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240329
2025 Marketplace Final Rule: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240412
Best Free Writing & Grammar Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA58
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
How Agents Can Break into the Medicare World: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-agents-can-break-into-the-medicare-world/
How to Recruit Agents to Your Downline in 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG588
Improve Your Customer Service with the Soft Skill of Negotiation: https://ritterim.com/blog/improve-your-customer-service-with-the-soft-skill-of-negotiation/
Interview: Learn How to Sell ACA Products During the Offseason: https://ritterim.com/blog/interview-learn-how-to-sell-aca-products-during-the-offseason/
Medicaid Unwinding One Year Later: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240426
Medicaid Unwinding SEP Extended Through November 2024: https://ritterim.com/blog/medicaid-unwinding-sep-extended-through-november-2024/
The Best Books for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG590
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 (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Apr 26, 2024
Friday Apr 26, 2024
The Friday Five for April 26, 2024:
Ritter Roadshows & MTM Summit
Apple Announces Let Loose Event
TikTok Ban Provision Passed
FTC Bans Noncompete Agreements
Medicaid Unwinding One Year Later
Answer this week’s poll: https://bit.ly/asgquestion
Upcoming Ritter Events:
Ritter Roadshows:
Florida (Boca Raton, FL)
Illinois (Schaumberg, IL)
Wisconsin (Wauwatosa, WI)
More Than Medicare (MTM) Summit: https://summits.ritterim.com/
Apple Announces Let Loose Event:
Apple announces May 7th event for new iPads: https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/23/24078670/apple-may-product-event-ipad-date
Apple announces special event for May 7: ‘Let Loose’: https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/23/apple-announces-special-event-for-may-7-let-loose/
Ross Young: New iPad Air won’t feature mini-LED after all, but a new mystery iPad is coming in Q4: https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/24/ross-young-new-ipad-air-wont-feature-mini-led-after-all-but-a-new-mystery-ipad-is-coming-in-q4/
Tim Cook hints at new Apple Pencil 3 coming next month – here’s what the rumors say: https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/23/tim-cook-hints-apple-pencil-3/
TikTok Ban Provision Passed:
Biden signs a bill that could ban TikTok — after the 2024 election: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/congress-biden-bill-ban-tiktok-when-2024-election-rcna148792
President Biden signs law to ban TikTok nationwide unless it is sold: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/24/1246663779/biden-ban-tiktok-us
FTC Bans Noncompete Agreements:
After 26,000 public comments, FTC to vote on rule banning noncompete agreements: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/23/1246430110/noncompete-agreements-ftc-ban-lina-khan
Business groups are fighting to keep your non-competes on the books: https://www.businessinsider.com/ban-noncompete-agreements-approved-ftc-challenges-await-2024-4
Fact Sheet on FTC’s Proposed Final Noncompete Rule: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/04/fact-sheet-ftcs-proposed-final-noncompete-rule
FTC Announces Rule Banning Noncompetes: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/04/ftc-announces-rule-banning-noncompetes
Noncompete Rule: https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/rules/noncompete-rule
Non-Compete Clause Final Rule: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/noncompete-rule.pdf
U.S. bans noncompete agreements for nearly all jobs: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/23/1246655366/ftc-bans-noncompete-agreements-lina-khan
Medicaid Unwinding One Year Later:
Halfway Through Medicaid Unwinding: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240216
KFF Survey of Medicaid Unwinding: https://www.kff.org/medicaid/poll-finding/kff-survey-of-medicaid-unwinding/
Medicaid Enrollment and Unwinding Tracker: https://www.kff.org/report-section/medicaid-enrollment-and-unwinding-tracker-overview/
Medicaid Unwinding SEP Extended Through November 2024: https://ritterim.com/blog/medicaid-unwinding-sep-extended-through-november-2024/
NAHU Rebrand, Medicaid Unwinding, & the State of the Senior Market 2023: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20230106
Navigating the Latest in Legislative & Regulatory Updates: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240405
Where Medicaid unwinding and disenrollments stand at the one-year mark: https://www.healthinsurance.org/blog/where-medicaid-unwinding-and-disenrollments-stand-at-the-one-year-mark/
Resources:
2025 Marketplace Final Rule: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240412
Agent’s Guide to Traditional Marketing Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG583
Best Free Writing & Grammar Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA58
Drug Shortage Resources & ACA Unauthorized Switching Update: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240419
Health Care Provisions in Biden’s 2025 Budget: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240315
Interview: Developing a Client Retention Mindset: https://ritterim.com/blog/interview-developing-a-client-retention-mindset/
Interview: Learn How to Sell ACA Products During the Offseason: https://ritterim.com/blog/interview-learn-how-to-sell-aca-products-during-the-offseason/
Medicaid Unwinding SEP Extended Through November 2024: https://ritterim.com/blog/medicaid-unwinding-sep-extended-through-november-2024/
Navigating the Latest in Legislative & Regulatory Updates: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240405
The Guide to Making Money Selling Health Insurance: https://ritterim.com/making-money-selling-insurance/
Why Client Retention Should Be Your Top Priority: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG581
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
The Friday Five for April 19, 2024:
Instagram-Like TikTok Notes Begins Rollout
Rebel Moon Part 2 & The Tortured Poets Department
CPI Data for March 2024
Drug Shortage Resource for Agents
ACA Unauthorized Plan Switching Update
Vote for your favorite Taylor Swift album in our ASG Podcast Question of the Week Poll!
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Instagram-Like TikTok Notes Begins Rollout:
TikTok Notes is basically Instagram for your TikTok account: https://www.engadget.com/tiktok-notes-is-basically-instagram-for-your-tiktok-account-170151958.html
TikTok Notes is the new competitor to Instagram. What is the app and how does it work? https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/apr/18/tiktok-notes-instagram-competitor-launch-canada-australia-what-is-it-explainer
TikTok Notes starts rolling out as a new rival to Instagram: https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/17/24133311/tiktok-notes-photos-text-app-instagram
The Tortured Poets Department:
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-tortured-poets-department/1736268193
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/5JeTM9iqdtLFfSFedipKdD?si=6ace8084c0f443c3
CPI Data for March 2024
Consumer Price Index - March 2024: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf
Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March 2024 is Projected to Rise 3.4% Yera-Over-Year: https://insight.factset.com/consumer-price-index-cpi-for-march-2024-is-projected-to-rise-3.4-year-over-year
Consumer prices rose 3.5% from a year ago in March, more than expected: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/10/cpi-inflation-march-2024-consumer-prices-rose-3point5percent-from-a-year-ago-in-march.html
Here’s what would happen to the US economy if there are no rate cuts this year: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/16/economy/what-if-no-rate-cuts-this-year/index.html
Inflation Back in the Picture as Markets Adapt to Delayed Interest Rate Cuts: https://www.usnews.com/news/economy/articles/2024-04-08/inflation-back-in-the-picture-as-markets-adapt-to-delayed-interest-rate-cuts
Stocks end the day higher even as blowout jobs report pushes some Fed officials to consider another rate hike: https://www.cnn.com/business/live-news/march-jobs-report-04-05-24/index.html
Stocks wobble after Powell warns that rate cuts will likely come later than expected: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/16/business/chair-powell-discussion/index.html
The Fed may have pumped so much money into the economy that it's now taking way longer to cut rates: https://www.businessinsider.com/fed-powell-pump-money-us-economy-delayed-cut-interest-rate-2024-4
This Fed meeting is dangerous for markets. Here’s why: https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/20/investing/premarket-stocks-trading/index.html
US economy adds 303K jobs in March, much stronger than expected: https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/us-jobs-report-march-2024
Watch Fed Chair Powell speak live during a policy forum in Washington: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/16/watch-fed-chair-powell-speak-live-during-a-policy-forum-in-washington.html
Drug Shortage Resource for Agents:
ASHP Calls for Policy Solutions as Drug Shortages Reach All-Time High: https://www.ashp.org/about-ashp/ceo-blogs/recent-blogs/ashp-calls-for-policy-solutions-as-drug-shortages-reach-all-time-high
Drug Shortages (FDA): https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/drug-shortages
Drug Shortages List from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): https://www.ashp.org/drug-shortages/current-shortages/drug-shortages-list
Drug Shortages Statistics: https://www.ashp.org/drug-shortages/shortage-resources/drug-shortages-statistics
Healthy Returns: U.S. drug shortages reach record high, hitting Wegovy, ADHD medications: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/16/healthy-returns-us-drug-shortages-reach-record-high-hitting-wegovy.html
Hundreds of drugs are in short supply around the U.S., pharmacists warn: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/drug-shortages-adderall-adhd-chemo/
ACA Unauthorized Plan Switching Update:
CMS Statement on Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-statement-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity
Resources:
2025 Marketplace Final Rule: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240412
Agent's Guide to Partner Marketing Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG585
Medicaid Unwinding SEP Extended Through November 2024: https://ritterim.com/blog/medicaid-unwinding-sep-extended-through-november-2024/
Navigating the Latest in Legislative & Regulatory Updates: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240405
QR Code Scanner Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA56
The Guide to Making Money Selling Health Insurance: https://ritterim.com/making-money-selling-insurance/
Useful Apps that Teach You How to Cook: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA57
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Friday Apr 12, 2024
The Friday Five for April 12, 2024:
Ritter Insurance Marketing Roadshows
ACA Unauthorized Plan Switching
Spotify AI Playlist
2024 Senior Market Symposium
2025 CMS Marketplace Final Rule
What kind of pet(s) do you have at home? Vote in our Question of the Week Poll!
Ritter Roadshows:
Indiana (Carmel, IN)
Ohio (Columbus, OH)
Michigan (Ypsilanti, MI)
ACA Unauthorized Plan Switching:
2024 Unauthorized Plan Switch (UPS) Update: https://kffhealthnews.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/03/UPS-Cross-_Year-_Updates-022624-5CR-022224.pdf
ACA Plans Are Being Switched Without Enrollees’ OK: https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/aca-obamacare-plans-switched-without-enrollee-permission-investigation/
Unauthorized ACA plan switches drive call for action against rogue agents: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2024/04/08/1243328699/health-insurance-obamacare-aca-plan-switch-rogue-agents
Unauthorized sign-ups cast shadow on Obamacare’s record enrollment: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/04/04/unauthorized-sign-ups-cast-shadow-obamacares-record-enrollment/
Spotify AI Playlist:
Spotify adds new ‘AI Playlist’ feature that uses text prompts: https://9to5google.com/2024/04/08/spotify-ai-playlist/
Spotify Premium Users Can Now Turn Any Idea Into a Personalized Playlist With AI Playlist in Beta: https://newsroom.spotify.com/2024-04-07/spotify-premium-users-can-now-turn-any-idea-into-a-personalized-playlist-with-ai-playlist-in-beta/
2024 Senior Market Symposium:
Craig Ritter’s Senior Market Symposium Keynote: https://ritterim.wistia.com/medias/3djxgzf9ex
2025 CMS Marketplace Final Rule:
2025 Marketplace Final Rule Changes Agents Should Know: https://ritterim.com/blog/2025-marketplace-final-rule-changes-agents-should-know/
HHS Finalizes Policies to Make Marketplace Coverage More Accessible and Expand Essential Health Benefits: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-finalizes-policies-make-marketplace-coverage-more-accessible-and-expand-essential-health
HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2025 Final Rule: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-and-payment-parameters-2025-final-rule
Resources:
3 Growth Strategies for Your Insurance Sales Territory: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG5875
5 Alternative Apps to Replace Google Podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240329
Ask the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Navigating the Latest in Legislative & Regulatory Updates: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240405
QR Code Scanner Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA56
The Advisor Approach: Cross-Selling by Fact-Finding: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG587
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Apr 05, 2024
Friday Apr 05, 2024
The Friday Five for April 5, 2024*:
Streamlining Enrollment in CHIP & Medicaid
Medicaid Unwinding SEP Extended
Short-Term Medical Insurance Changes
Final CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program
2025 CY MA and Part D Rate Announcement
*Note: This episode was recorded prior to the release of the CY 2025 MA and Part D Final Rule. Stay tuned for more information!
Which social media app would you like to learn more about? Cast your vote!
Have questions about marketing and sales? Ask the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Streamlining Enrollment in CHIP & Medicaid:
Biden-Harris Administration Builds on the Success of the Affordable Care Act by Streamlining Enrollment in Medicaid and CHIP Coverage: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-builds-success-affordable-care-act-streamlining-enrollment-medicaid-and
Medicaid Program; Streamlining the Medicaid, Children's Health Insurance Program, and Basic Health Program Application, Eligibility Determination, Enrollment, and Renewal Processes: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/04/02/2024-06566/medicaid-program-streamlining-the-medicaid-childrens-health-insurance-program-and-basic-health
Medicaid Unwinding Extended:
HHS Takes Additional Actions to Help People Stay Covered During Medicaid and CHIP Renewals: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-takes-additional-actions-help-people-stay-covered-during-medicaid-and-chip-renewals
Medicaid Enrollment and Unwinding Tracker: https://www.kff.org/report-section/medicaid-enrollment-and-unwinding-tracker-overview/
Short-Term Medical Insurance Changes:
Biden-Harris Administration Protects Consumers from Low-Quality Coverage by Limiting “Junk” Health Plans: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-protects-consumers-low-quality-coverage-limiting-junk-health-plans
Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance and Independent, Noncoordinated Excepted Benefits Coverage: https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-06551.pdf
Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance and Independent, Noncoordinated Excepted Benefits Coverage (CMS-9904-F) Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/short-term-limited-duration-insurance-and-independent-noncoordinated-excepted-benefits-coverage-cms#_ftn1
STLDI Final Rules to Affect Short-Term Medical & Hospital Indemnity Plans: https://ritterim.com/blog/stldi-final-rules-to-affect-short-term-medical-and-hospital-indemnity-plans/
Final CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program:
Final CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/final-cy-2025-part-d-redesign-program-instructions-fact-sheet
2025 CY MA and Part D Rate Announcement:
2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Rate Announcement: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-rate-announcement
CMS Finalizes Payment Updates for 2025 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Programs: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-finalizes-payment-updates-2025-medicare-advantage-and-medicare-part-d-programs
Fact Sheet: 2024 Medicare Advantage and Part D Rate Announcement: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/fact-sheet-2024-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-rate-announcement
Medicare Moves Toward Election Season Clash With Insurers: https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2024/04/02/medicare-moves-toward-election-season-clash-with-insurers/
Payers say MA rate cut puts affordable care at risk: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/ai-and-machine-learning/medicare-advantage-rate-cut-remains-feds-keep-pressure
Resources:
5 Alternative Apps to Replace Google Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240329
BOI Reporting for LLCs & ACA Enrollment Updates: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240105
Halfway Through Medicaid Unwinding: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240216
Health Care Provisions in Biden's 2025 Budget: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240315
References:
Federal Register Website: https://www.federalregister.gov/
Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V
Medicare Marketing Guidelines: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-guidelines
Part D Communication Requirements: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V
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 Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Mar 29, 2024
Friday Mar 29, 2024
Searching for a Google Podcasts replacement? We’ve got you covered! Sarah and Tina reviewed 5 podcast players (that aren’t Apple or Spotify) to highlight unique features and give our recommendations.
Which of the 5 podcast apps are you most likely to try? VOTE HERE!
Podcast Addict: Android | Web
Overcast: iOS | Web
Podbean: Android | iOS | Web
Pocket Casts: Android | iOS | Web*
*Plus subscription required for web, Apple Watch, and Wear OS apps
YouTube Music: Android | iOS | Web
References:
Google Podcasts Is Going Away. Here’s How to Transfer Your Subscriptions: https://www.wired.com/story/google-podcasts-how-to-transfer-your-subscriptions/
It could’ve been great: An abridged Google Podcasts history: https://9to5google.com/2024/03/25/google-podcasts-history/
Migrate your podcast shows from Google Podcasts (US Only 🇺🇸): https://support.google.com/youtubemusic/thread/249139848/migrate-your-podcast-shows-from-google-podcasts-us-only-%F0%9F%87%BA%F0%9F%87%B8?hl=en
Why I'm happy to see the end of Google Podcasts: https://www.androidpolice.com/happy-end-google-podcasts/
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Mar 22, 2024
Friday Mar 22, 2024
The Friday Five for March 22, 2024:
#FierceMadness
EWG’s Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen
iPad Update & This Week’s Streaming Pick
FOMC March 2024 Meeting
The DUALS Act of 2024
What would you rather? Read a story, listen to it, or watch the movie? VOTE HERE!
#FierceMadness:
#FierceMadness: Grab a bracket and vote for the most overused buzzword in healthcare! https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/special-reports/fiercemadness-grab-bracket-and-help-us-find-biggest-buzzword-healthcare
Fierce Madness Bracket PDF: https://s3.amazonaws.com/publiceditorial.qtxasset.com/Fierce+Madness+Round+1+Bracket.pdf
Environment Working Group’s Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen:
2024′s ‘Dirty Dozen’: The 12 fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides—and tips for enjoying them safely: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/20/dirty-dozen-2024-12-fruits-and-vegetables-with-the-most-pesticides.html
Blueberries, strawberries again on the ‘Dirty Dozen’ list: https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/19/health/dirty-dozen-produce-pesticides-2024-wellness/index.html
'Dirty Dozen' Guide Shows 95% of These Fruits and Veggies Tested Positive for Pesticides: https://www.commondreams.org/news/ewg-2024-dirty-dozen-pesticides
EWG’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™: The Dirty Dozen™ is packed with fungicides that can disrupt human hormones: https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news-release/2024/03/ewgs-2024-shoppers-guide-pesticides-producetm-dirty-dozentm
The Clean Fifteen (EWG Official List): https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/clean-fifteen.php
The Dirty Dozen (EWG Official List): https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php
RR – iPad Update & This Week's Streaming Pick
Apple's iPad Pro could come with a matte display: https://mashable.com/article/apple-ipad-pro-matte-display-rumors
Claim of iPad announcement on March 26 ‘not true’ – Gurman: https://9to5mac.com/2024/03/21/ipad-announcement/
Gurman: No iPad Announcement Planned for March 26: https://www.macrumors.com/2024/03/21/gurman-no-ipad-announcement-march-26/
New iPad Air already shipping to US ahead of launch — and there’s a new size this time around: https://www.tomsguide.com/tablets/ipads/new-ipad-air-already-shipping-to-us-ahead-of-launch-and-theres-a-new-size-this-time-around
New iPad Pros and iPad Airs could land on March 26, but one model might be missing: https://www.techradar.com/tablets/ipad/new-ipad-pros-and-ipad-airs-could-land-on-march-26-but-one-model-might-be-missing
The Three-Body Problem: The 'unfilmable' Chinese sci-fi novel set to be Netflix's new hit 3 Body Problem: https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240319-3-body-problem-china-censored-sci-fi-netflix-hit
FOMC March 2024 Meeting:
Consumer Price Index (CPI) February 2024: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf
Consumer prices up 3.1 percent from January 2023 to January 2024: https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2024/consumer-prices-up-3-1-percent-from-january-2023-to-january-2024.htm
Fed Holds Rates Steady and Projects Three Cuts This Year: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/20/business/fed-meeting-interest-rates.html
Federal Open Market Committee 2024 Calendar: https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm
Fed meeting recap: Everything Powell said during Wednesday’s market-moving news conference: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/20/fed-meeting-today-live-updates-on-march-fed-rate-decision.html
Personal Income and Outlays, January 2024: https://www.bea.gov/news/2024/personal-income-and-outlays-january-2024
The DUALS Act of 2024:
Cassidy, Carper, Cornyn, Warner, Scott, Menendez Comprehensive Legislation Improve Care For Patients Jointly Enrolled In Medicare And Medicaid: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-carper-cornyn-warner-scott-menendez-comprehensive-legislation-improve-care-for-patients-jointly-enrolled-in-medicare-and-medicaid/
Medicare, Medicaid Plans Could Drastically Change: https://www.newsweek.com/duals-act-new-bill-medicare-medicaid-integration-1879855
The Delivering Unified Access to Lifesaving Services Act of 2024: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Duals-Legislation-One-Pager-Final.pdf
Vulnerable Americans are stuck in a Medicare-Medicaid maze. Is a fix in sight? https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2024/03/14/1238386157/vulnerable-americans-are-stuck-in-a-medicare-medicaid-maze-is-a-fix-in-sight
Resources:
Agent’s Guide to Digital Marketing Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG584
Agent’s Guide to Traditional Marketing Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG583
Developing a Retention Mindset ft. Blake Amos (Cigna Healthcare): https://link.chtbl.com/2024BlakeAmos
Health Care Provisions in Biden’s 2025 Budget: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240315
How to Be an Adaptable Insurance Agent: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG582
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 Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Friday Mar 15, 2024
Friday Mar 15, 2024
The Friday Five for March 15, 2024:
Ritter's Senior Market Symposium
Amazon to Deliver LillyDirect Prescriptions
Microsoft Teams Consolidating App Versions
House Passes Bill that Might Ban TikTok
Health Care Provisions in Biden’s 2025 Budget
Should each Friday Five mention be numbered, or can we go numberless? VOTE HERE!
Have feedback for the Agent Survival Guide Podcast team? Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim Twitter, https://twitter.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:
Developing a Retention Mindset ft. Blake Amos (Cigna Healthcare): https://link.chtbl.com/2024BlakeAmos
Free Webtoon & Comic Book Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA55
Medicare Part D Prescription Payment Plan Updates: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240308
Optimize Client Acquisition by Becoming a Registered Social Security Analyst ft. Tom Drapala: https://link.chtbl.com/2024TomDrapala
Talkspace Plans to Enter Medicare Market: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240301
Ritter's Senior Market Symposium:
Register for Ritter’s Senior Market Symposium: https://www.ritterim.com/symposium
Amazon to Deliver LillyDirect Prescriptions:
Eli Lilly strikes deal with Amazon Pharmacy for home delivery of Zepbound, other drugs: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/eli-lilly-strikes-deal-with-amazon-pharmacy-for-home-delivery-of-zepbound-other-drugs-7cddddcb
Eli Lilly strikes drug dispensing deal with Amazon: https://www.ft.com/content/64730a98-7744-4c16-abd3-b1f1e0aa43c7
Eli Lilly teams with Amazon to offer home delivery of its Zepbound weight-loss drug: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/weight-loss-zepbound-eli-lilly-amazon/
Microsoft Teams Consolidating App Versions:
Microsoft Teams is finally moving to a single app for personal and work: https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/13/24099723/microsoft-teams-unified-app-personal-work-accounts
Microsoft Teams will merge into single app for work and personal: https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-teams-will-merge-into-single-app-for-work-and-personal/
House Passes Bill that Might Ban TikTok:
House passes bill that could lead to US ban of TikTok: https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/tiktok-ban-bill-house-vote-03-13-24/index.html
House Passes Bill to Force TikTok Sale From Chinese Owner or Ban the App: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/13/technology/tiktok-ban-house-vote.html
H.R. 7521 the "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act" Text: https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20240311/HR%207521%20Updated.pdf
The House passed a TikTok ban bill. But is the app really a national security threat? https://www.npr.org/2024/03/14/1238435508/tiktok-ban-bill-congress-china
TikTok ban timeline: Congress' yearslong case against ByteDance: https://www.axios.com/2024/03/12/tiktok-ban-explain-why-china-congress
Health Care Provisions in Biden’s 2025 Budget:
Biden budget focuses on unfinished health care business: https://www.axios.com/2024/03/12/biden-budget-drug-costs-insurance
Breaking down Biden's $7.3T proposed budget for 2025: Here are his top health priorities: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/breaking-down-bidens-2025-proposed-budget-here-are-his-top-health-priorities
Budget of the U.S. Government Fiscal Year 2025: https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/budget_fy2025.pdf
Fact Sheet: The Biden-Harris Administration Urges Congress to Lower Drug Costs for Americans with Commercial Insurance: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2024/03/11/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-urges-congress-lower-drug-costs-americans-with-commercial-insurance.html
FACT SHEET: The President’s Budget Protects and Increases Access to Quality, Affordable Healthcare: https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/briefing-room/2024/03/11/fact-sheet-the-presidents-budget-protects-and-increases-access-to-quality-affordable-healthcare/
President Biden’s Drug Pricing Policy: State Of The Union Takeaways: https://www.forbes.com/sites/gebai/2024/03/10/president-bidens-drug-pricing-policy-state-of-the-union-says-it-all/?sh=7b0cc7575f7d
Remarks of President Joe Biden — State of the Union Address As Prepared for Delivery: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2024/03/07/remarks-of-president-joe-biden-state-of-the-union-address-as-prepared-for-delivery-2/
Statement by Secretary Becerra on the President’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2024/03/11/statement-by-secretary-becerra-on-the-presidents-fiscal-year-2025-budget.html
Friday Mar 08, 2024
Friday Mar 08, 2024
The Friday Five for March 8, 2024:
Contract Now Feature Changes for New Agents
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program Updates
Medicare Advantage Enrollment Trends Study from Chartis
Waze Updates App Features
How to Disable X (fka Twitter) Calling Feature
Ask 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 Twitter, https://twitter.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/
Info on Ritter’s Tools for Agents:
5 Things About Working with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20230512
Everything You Get With Your Ritter Registration: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG503
FAQs About Working with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG492
Meet Your Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program UPDATES:
Biden-Harris Administration Issues Final Guidance to Help People with Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Manage Prescription Drug Costs: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-issues-final-guidance-help-people-medicare-prescription-drug-coverage
Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Final Part One Guidance: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-prescription-payment-plan-final-part-one-guidance.pdf
KFF Poll on Affordability & ACA: Takeaways for Agents (February 23, 2024 Friday Five episode): https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240223
Timeline: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Implementation: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-timeline.pdf
Medicare Advantage Enrollment Trends Study from Chartis:
Chartis: A look at Medicare Advantage enrollment trends in 2024: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/chartis-look-medicare-advantage-enrollment-trends-2024
Mounting headwinds in Medicare Advantage market haven’t stopped growth: https://www.chartis.com/insights/mounting-headwinds-medicare-advantage-market-havent-stopped-growth
Waze Updates App Features:
Waze update: 6 new features added to make driving safer, easier: https://mashable.com/article/waze-update-6-new-features
Waze will warn you about speed bumps and sharp curves soon: https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/5/24091139/google-waze-maps-new-alerts-speed-bumps-parking-traffic-circles
How To Disable X (fka Twitter) Calling Feature:
A new call feature on X is on by default, and you should probably turn it off: https://appleinsider.com/inside/iphone/tips/a-new-call-feature-on-x-is-on-by-default-and-you-should-probably-turn-it-off
How to Make Free Video and Audio Calls on X (Twitter): https://tech.co/news/how-to-make-free-video-audio-calls-x-twitter
How to turn off the feature on X that people are freaking out about: https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-turn-off-audio-video-calls-x-twitter-ip-2024-3
Nobody Wants Phone Calls From Twitter. Here's How to Turn Them Off: https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/nobody-wants-phone-calls-from-twitter-heres-how-to-turn-them-off/
Twitter Adds Voice And Video Calls: Here's How To Disable It: https://www.slashgear.com/1430439/twitter-how-to-disable-voice-video-calling/
Friday Feb 23, 2024
Friday Feb 23, 2024
The Friday Five for February 23, 2024:
Apple Music Replay Monthly
FDA Approves Severe Frostbite Treatment
New Audio Features from Samsung
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program
KFF Poll on Affordability & ACA: Takeaways for Agents
Ask 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 Twitter, https://twitter.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:
4 Perks of Partnering with an FMO: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG575
A Financial Snapshot of Medicare Beneficiaries in 2023: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240209
Halfway Through Medicaid Unwinding: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240216
Learning from Lost Medicare Insurance Sales: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG576
Social Media Marketing Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA52
Apple Music Replay Monthly:
Apple Music introduces a monthly version of Replay: https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/20/apple-music-introduces-a-monthly-version-of-replay/
Apple Music Reply will recap listening habits monthly: https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/20/24078224/apple-music-reply-will-recap-listening-habits-monthly
FDA Approves Severe Frostbite Treatment:
FDA approves first treatment for severe frostbite: https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/14/health/iloprost-frostbite-fda/index.html
FDA Approves Iloprost for Severe Frostbite: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/fda-approves-iloprost-severe-frostbite-2024a10003cn?form=fpf
US FDA approves first treatment for severe frostbite: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-fda-approves-first-treatment-severe-frostbite-2024-02-14/
New Audio Features from Samsung:
Samsung details a host of audio upgrades coming to its phones, tablets, and TVs: https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/20/24078026/samsung-galaxy-buds-auracast-360-audio-auto-switch-support
Samsung is upgrading a bunch of audio capabilities on its phones, tablets and earbuds: https://www.engadget.com/samsung-is-upgrading-a-bunch-of-audio-capabilities-on-its-phones-tablets-and-earbuds-133533584.html
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program:
CMS Issues Additional Guidance on Program to Allow People with Medicare to Pay Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs in Monthly Payments: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-issues-additional-guidance-program-allow-people-medicare-pay-out-pocket-prescription-drug-costs
Draft CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/draft-cy-2025-part-d-redesign-program-instructions-fact-sheet
Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-fact-sheet.pdf
Maximum Monthly Cap on Cost-Sharing Payments Under Prescription Drug Plans: Draft Part One Guidance on Select Topics, Implementation of Section 1860D-2 of the Social Security Act for 2025, and Solicitation of Comments: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-part-1-guidance.pdf
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan: Draft Part Two Guidance on Select Topics, Implementation of Section 1860D-2 of the Social Security Act for 2025, and Solicitation of Comments: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-draft-part-two-guidance.pdf
Timeline: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Implementation: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-timeline.pdf
KFF Poll on Affordability & ACA: Takeaways for Agents:
Boost Your Commissions with a New HI Sales Strategy ft. Harry Rittner & Damon Logan: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG494
Cross-Selling Cancer, Heart Attack and Stroke, and Critical Illness Insurance: https://ritterim.com/knight-school/expand-dominate/cross-sell/6/
KFF Health Tracking Poll February 2024: Voters on Two Key Health Care Issues: Affordability and ACA: https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/poll-finding/kff-health-tracking-poll-february-2024-voters-on-two-key-health-care-issues-affordability-and-aca/
Questions for our Sales Team? Reach out for answers: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
The Advisor Approach: Cross-Selling by Fact-Finding: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG587
Friday Feb 16, 2024
Friday Feb 16, 2024
The Friday Five for February 16, 2024:
Gmail Spam Protection Rolling Out
Threads Testing New Feature
2025 MA and Part D Advance Notice
Draft of CY 2025 Part D Redesign
Halfway Through Medicaid Unwinding
Ask 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 Twitter, https://twitter.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:
4 Perks of Partnering with an FMO: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG575
A Financial Snapshot of Medicare Beneficiaries in 2023: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240209
Apps to Help You Stay Healthy: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA53
Things to Think About Post-OEP: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG572
What You Need to Know About 1035 Exchanges: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG573
Gmail Spam Protection Rolling Out:
New Mass Gmail Rejections To Start April 2024, Google Says: https://www.forbes.com/sites/daveywinder/2024/02/14/google-warns-of-mass-gmail-message-blocks-new-email-security-rules/?sh=4c19402532fa
Tired of spam emails? Google has new protections for Gmail users: https://www.techradar.com/computing/tired-of-spam-emails-google-has-new-protections-for-gmail-users
Threads Testing New Feature:
In battle with X, Threads gets trending topics where politics will be allowed: https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/12/in-battle-with-x-threads-gets-trending-topics-where-politics-will-be-allowed/
Threads is testing ‘Today’s topics’ to tell users what’s trending in the US: https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/12/24071014/threads-topics-testing-us-test
CMA 2025 MA and Part D Advance Notice:
2024 Medicare Advantage and Part D Advance Notice Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2024-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-advance-notice-fact-sheet
2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Advance Notice Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-advance-notice-fact-sheet
CMS Draft of CY 2025 Part D Redesign:
Draft CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions Fact Sheet: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/draft-cy-2025-part-d-redesign-program-instructions-fact-sheet
Halfway Through Medicaid Unwinding:
Halfway through 'unwinding,' Medicaid enrollment is down about 10M: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/halfway-through-unwinding-medicaid-enrollment-down-about-10-million
Medicaid Enrollment and Unwinding Tracker: https://www.kff.org/report-section/medicaid-enrollment-and-unwinding-tracker-overview/