
Agent Survival Guide | Empowering Insurance Agents to Survive Today and Thrive Tomorrow
230 episodes — Page 2 of 5

Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum: ACA Metal Tier Levels
Get the breakdown of each Affordable Care Act metal tier plan right here! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Questions to Ask Clients Shopping for an ACA Plan Selling ACA/Under-65 Health Insurance with Ritter The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans – FREE eBook Download Understanding the ACA Marketplace & Exchanges Understanding ACA Plan Metal Tiers PDF - Download References: “Average Monthly Marketplace Premiums by Metal Tier: KFF State Health Facts.” KFF, 3 Nov. 2025, https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/state-indicator/average-marketplace-premiums-by-metal-tier/. “Health Plan Categories: Bronze, Silver, Gold, & Platinum.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/choose-a-plan/plans-categories/. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

What Insurance Agents Need to Know About the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program
Learn more about the Medicare prescription payment plan program. Get the information you need now so you can answer questions from your clients. 🤝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 [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: The Complete Guide on How to Sell Prescription Drug Plans 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents 8 Strategies to Prevent Rapid Disenrollments from Medicare Plans Medicare Grievances & How Insurance Agents Can (Try To) Prevent Them The 2026 Medicare Part D Redesign Changes Agents Should Know References: “Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-fact-sheet.pdf Accessed 13 Jan 2026. “Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Final Part One Guidance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-prescription-payment-plan-final-part-one-guidance.pdf Accessed 13 Jan 2026. “Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Final Part Two Guidance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-prescription-payment-plan-final-part-two-guidance.pdf. Accessed 13 Jan 2026. “Inflation Reduction Act and Medicare.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/inflation-reduction-act-and-medicare Accessed 13 Jan 2026. “Medicare & You Handbook.” Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), www.medicare.gov/medicare-and-you. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026. “Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Details.” Medicare.Gov, CMS, www.medicare.gov/prescription-payment-plan. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026. 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 Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2
The Friday Five for January 16, 2026: Instagram “Your Algorithm” Personalization Apple Health+ on the Horizon? Apple Creator Studio ACA Subsidy Extension Passes House 2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2 Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Instagram “Your Algorithm” Personalization Bell, Karissa. “Instagram wants you to personalize your Reels algorithm for 2026.” Engadget.com, Engadget, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.engadget.com/social-media/instagram-wants-you-to-personalize-your-reels-algorithm-for-2026-215252736.html. “Introducing a new way to see and control your algorithm.” About.instagram.com, Instagram, 10 Dec. 2025, https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/reels-algorithm-control. Hutchinson, Andrew. “Instagram Rolls Out Algorithm Control Option to All English-Speaking Users.” Socialmediatoday.com, Social Media Today, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-rolls-out-algorithm-control-option-to-all-english-speaking-users/809524/. Peters, Jay. “Instagram wants to limit hashtag spam.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 18 Dec. 2025, https://www.theverge.com/news/847739/instagram-hashtag-spam-limit. Apple Health+ on the Horizon? Burkhardt, Michael. “Apple Launching ‘Revamped’ Health App Later This Year with These Four Upgrades.” 9to5mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 11 Jan. 2026, 9to5mac.com/2026/01/11/apple-health-new-features-and-overhaul-coming-ios-26-4/. Raspall, David Bernal. “Apple’s Plans for the Health App Leak: A Huge Overhaul Closer than We Think.” Softonic.Com, Softonic, 12 Jan. 2026, en.softonic.com/articles/apple-health-plans-leak. McMahon, Liv. “Apple Turns to Google to Power AI Upgrade for Siri.” Bbc.Com, BBC News, 13 Jan. 2026, www.bbc.com/news/articles/czdqvp2zqezo. Apple Creator Studio “Apple Introduces Apple Creator Studio, an inspiring collection of the most powerful creative apps.” Apple.com, Apple, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/01/introducing-apple-creator-studio-an-inspiring-collection-of-creative-apps/. Rossignol, Joe. “Apple Introduces New 'Creator Studio' Bundle of Apps for $129 Per Year.” MacRumors.com, MacRumors, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/13/apple-creator-studio/. Rossignol, Joe. “These Apple Apps Will No Longer Receive All New Features Without a Subscription.” MacRumors.com, MacRumors, 13 Jan. 2026, https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/13/apple-creator-studio-exclusive-app-features/. ACA Subsidy Extension Passes House Guggenheim, Benjamin, and Mia McCarthy. “ 17 Republicans Vote to Restore Lapsed Obamacare Subsidies.” Politico.Com, Politico, 8 Jan. 2026, www.politico.com/news/2026/01/08/17-republicans-vote-to-restore-lapsed-obamacare-subsidies-00717497. Lillis, Mike, et al. “House Passes 3-Year Extension of ObamaCare Subsidies.” TheHill.Com, The Hill, 8 Jan. 2026, thehill.com/homenews/house/5680184-obamacare-tax-credits-bill-passes-house/. Minemyer, Paige. “House Passes ACA Tax Credit Extension, With Support From 17 Republicans.” FierceHealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 12 Jan. 2026, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/legislators-revive-aca-debate-hill-trump-seeks-meeting-insurers. 2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2 “Marketplace 2025 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 17 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2025-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-2. “Marketplace 2026 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 12 Jan. 2026, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2026-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-0. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel

5 Ways to Generate Medicare Leads
Leads are crucial to the success of your insurance business. Take a step outside the box with these creative Medicare lead-generation ideas! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out in a Crowd Affinity Partnerships for Insurance Agents Custom Ink Field Notes on Partner Marketing Resources Shop RitterIM The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Establishing Successful Affinity Partnerships References: Forman-Katz, Naomi. “For National Radio Day, Key Facts about Radio Listeners and the Radio Industry in the U.S.” Pewresearch.Org, Pew Research Center, 17 Aug. 2023, www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/17/for-national-radio-day-key-facts-about-radio-listeners-and-the-radio-industry-in-the-us/. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads
Expand your Affordable Care Act client base with these six lead generation strategies! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out from the Crowd 5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media Build Your Brand with Community Involvement Ritter Carrier Partners Community Engagement & ACA Marketing Suggestions for Agents How to Better Market Yourself Marketing & Incentives Why Being a Likable Agent Is Good for Your Business References: “Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).” Medicaid.Gov, https://www.medicaid.gov/chip. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “CMS.Gov Enterprise Portal.” Portal.Cms.Gov, https://portal.cms.gov/portal/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “FFM Agent Broker Registration and Termination Status Page.” Data.Healthcare.Gov, https://data.healthcare.gov/ffm_ab_registration_lists. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “FAQs for Marketplace Agents and Brokers.” AgentBrokerFaq.Cms.Gov, https://www.agentbrokerfaq.cms.gov/s/article/Where-can-I-update-my-public-facing-agent-broker-profile-information-so-that-consumers-can-find-me-and-request-assistance. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Find Local Help.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/find-local-help/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Get Help Applying & More.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/find-assistance/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Help on Demand: Training and Registration Guide.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, https://www.cms.gov/CCIIO/Programs-and-Initiatives/Health-Insurance-Marketplaces/Downloads/Help-On-Demand-Training-Registration-Guide.pdf. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Log in or Sign Up.” Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Log in or Sign Up.” LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/home. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Returning Agents’ and Brokers’ Guide to Plan Year 2025 ...” CMS.Gov, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/returning-agents-and-brokers-guide-marketplace-registration-and-training.pdf. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Shop Health Insurance Overview.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/small-businesses/choose-and-enroll/shop-marketplace-overview/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. “Welcome to the Health Insurance Marketplace®.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Ringing in the New Year with CMS
The Friday Five for January 9, 2026: Rural Health Transformation Program Allocations Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth (BALANCE) Model Clear, Accurate, and Actionable Health Care Prices Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Rural Health Transformation Program Allocations: “CMS Announces $50 Billion in Awards to Strengthen Rural Health in All 50 States.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 29 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-50-billion-awards-strengthen-rural-health-all-50-states. “CMS Announces Establishment of the Office of Rural Health Transformation.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 29 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-establishment-office-rural-health-transformation. “CMS Launches Landmark $50 Billion Rural Health Transformation Program.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 Sep. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-launches-landmark-50-billion-rural-health-transformation-program. Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model: “CMS Proposes New Mandatory GUARD Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 21 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposes-new-mandatory-guard-model. “GUARD (Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs) Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guard. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026. Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model.” Federalregister.Gov, U.S. Government, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/23/2025-23705/guarding-us-medicare-against-rising-drug-costs-guard-model. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026. Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model: “CMS Proposes New Mandatory GLOBE Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 21 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposes-new-mandatory-globe-model. “Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model.” Federalregister.Gov, U.S. Government, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/23/2025-23702/global-benchmark-for-efficient-drug-pricing-globe-model. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026. “GLOBE (Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing) Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/globe. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026. Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth (BALANCE) Model: “BALANCE (Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth) Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/balance. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026. “CMS Launches Voluntary Model to Expand Access to Life-Changing Medicines, Promote Healthier Living.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 23 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-launches-voluntary-model-expand-access-life-changing-medicines-promote-healthier-living. How the BALANCE Model Will Help Medicare Part D & Medicaid Enrollees Access GLP-1s Minemyer, Paige. “CMS Launching Payment Model to Boost Access to GLP-1s in Medicaid, Part D.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 24 Dec. 2025, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-launching-payment-model-boost-access-glp-1s-medicaid-part-d. Clear, Accurate, and Actionable Health Care Prices: Minemyer, Paige. “CMS Proposes Updates to Price Transparency Regs to Make Data More Accessible, Usable.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 19 Dec. 2025, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-proposes-updates-price-transparency-regs-make-data-more-accessible-usable. “Transparency in Coverage.” Federalregister.Gov, U.S. Government, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/23/2025-23693/transparency-in-coverage. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026. “Transparency in Coverage Proposed Rule (CMS 9882-P).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 19 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/transparency-coverage-proposed-rule-cms-9882-p “Trump Administration Proposes Significant Updates to Disclosure Requirements to Make Health Care Prices Clear, Accurate, and Actionable for Americans.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 19 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/trump-administration-proposes-significant-updates-disclosure-requirements-make-health-care-prices Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, http

Why Gen Z is a Good Fit For Selling Insurance
Discover all the reasons why we think Gen Z is a great match for the insurance industry! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Reasons Why Ritter Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency 10 Essential Tools for Beginner Insurance Agents Developing Power Habits ft. Dr. Noah St. John The Difference Between Captive & Independent Agents The Difference Between Medicare & Medicaid Your Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Started in Insurance Sales References: McAllister, Sean. “How is Gen Z changing the workplace?” Zurich.Com, https://www.zurich.com/media/magazine/2022/how-will-gen-z-change-the-future-of-work . Accessed 10 Dec. 2025. Veltheim, Hanna. “Pandemic’s Impact on the Young: Generation Z and Growing up in the Middle of Covid-19.” Futures Platform, Futures Platform, 28 Nov. 2024, https://www.futuresplatform.com/blog/pandemics-impact-generation-z. Hall, Rebecca. “Recruiting Gen Z: Understanding What Matters.” Imercer, https://www.imercer.com/articleinsights/Attracting-new-graduates-and-Gen-Z-with-the-right-pay-and-perks. Accessed 10 Dec. 2025. Wells, Andrea. “Young Agents Survey: The next Generation Steps Up.” Insurance Journal, 22 Apr. 2015, https://www.insurancejournal.com/magazines/coverstory/2015/04/20/364399.htm. “The Average Length of a Job by Generation: A Look at Workforce Trends.” Sudina Search, LinkedIn, 19 Feb. 2025, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/average-length-job-generation-look-workforce-trends-sudina-search-r4wqf#:~:text=Studies_indicate_that_Gen_Z,and_alignment_with_personal_values. Robinson, Bryan. “The Gen Z Mindset Graduates Bring to the Workplace in 2025.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 27 Apr. 2025, https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2025/04/26/the-gen-z-mindset-graduates-bring-to-the-workplace-in-2025/. Wilson, Heather H. “The Insurance Industry’s Talent Crunch: Attracting and Retaining Gen Z.” Insurance Journal, 24 Mar. 2025, https://www.insurancejournal.com/magazines/mag-features/2025/03/24/816425.htm . Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

8 Strategies to Prevent Rapid Disenrollments from Medicare Plans
Rapid disenrollments don't have to happen to you! Learn how better communication can smooth over most Medicare plan disenrollment issues. We outline 8 strategies that are simple for agents to implement. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 7 Reasons Clients Switch Medicare Plans During AEP Do's and Don'ts of Medicare Compliance Fact-Finder Worksheet PDF Helping Clients Navigate Medicare’s Durable Medical Equipment Coverage How to Save Beneficiaries Money on Prescription Drugs at a Preferred Pharmacy Medicare Advantage Emergency-Related SEPs Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Do's and Don'ts Medicare Advantage Trial Rights Explained for Agents Medicare Grievances & How Insurance Agents Can (Try To) Prevent Them Start Selling 5-Star Medicare Advantage Plans All Year Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing What Beneficiaries Value Most in Medicare Advantage Plans References: “Low Incomes, Little Savings: Many Medicare Beneficiaries Have Modest Financial Resources to Draw Upon in Retirement .” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicare/low-incomes-little-savings-many-medicare-beneficiaries-have-modest-financial-resources-to-draw-upon-in-retirement/. “Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Ecfr.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025. “Outbound Education and Verification Calls to All New Enrollees.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/Medicare/Health-Plans/ManagedCareMarketing/downloads/MMGSection70-6Rev.pdf. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025. “Part D Communication Requirements.” Ecfr.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025. Sparks, Grace et. al. “Public Opinion on Prescription Drugs and Their Prices.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/health-costs/public-opinion-on-prescription-drugs-and-their-prices. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents
In this episode, we’re tapping our past podcast guests for more advice. This time around, we asked what advice they would offer to more seasoned insurance agents. 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Adding Spokes to Your Wheel ft. Robert Rothschild Building the Foundation for Success ft. Roy Snarr How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

5 Tips for New Insurance Agents
Just starting out in the insurance industry? There’s a lot to learn! We’ve compiled some tips from past podcast guests on the advice they would give to new insurance agents. 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Building the Foundation for Success ft. Roy Snarr How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle Making Your Own Luck ft. Michael Krantz Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Medicare Grievances & How Insurance Agents Can (Try To) Prevent Them
It’s important that agents are equipped to handle Medicare grievances when they arise. Listen to learn how to prepare and best practices for avoiding these situations. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: A Review of Integrity’s Top Medicare Quoting Tools Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance IntegrityCONNECT PlanEnroll PlanEnroll Client Sync Tutorial PDF Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Sales Event The Survivor’s AEP Checklist Updates to the 2026 AHIP Certification You Should Know What Agents Can’t Say During Medicare Sales Appointments What Not to Say During Medicare Educational and Sales Events What to Know About SOAs in Medicare Health and Prescription Drug Plan Sales References: “Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (CMS-4208-F).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription-final. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025. “Closed Confirmed Consumer Complaints by Coverage Type - CIS.” Closed Confirmed Consumer Complaints by Coverage Type - CIS, https://content.naic.org/cis_agg_type.htm. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025. “Filing a Complaint.” Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/providers-services/claims-appeals-complaints/complaints. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025. “Welcome to Medicare.” Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.medicare.gov/. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

What Are the ACA Marketplace Alternatives for Health Insurance?
The Affordable Care Act health insurance is a great option for many. But it may not be the right fit for your clients. Discover ACA alternatives that fit your clients’ needs. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance A Quick Guide to Cross-Selling Ancillary Insurance with Medicare Products Government & Insurers Reconsider Short-Term Limited Duration Product Changes How the ACA Subsidy Cliff Impacts Client Shopping for Marketplace Coverage How to Prepare for AEP Like a Pro How Much Money Can Agents Make Selling Ancillary Health Insurance Key Takeaways From the 2025 Marketplace Integrity and Affordability CMS Final Rule Secure a Bigger, Better Business with Ancillary Products The One Big Beautiful Bill: What Health Insurance Agents Should Know References: “E&O Insurance for Insurance Agents.” Insureon, www.insureon.com/insurance-agent-business-insurance/errors-omissions. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025. Stevenson, Michael. “Mid-Year 2025 Employee Benefits Market Update: 4 Trends to Watch.” Seubert, 7 Aug. 2025, www.seubert.com/blog/mid-year-2025-employee-benefits-market-update-4-trends-to-watch/. “Minimum Essential Coverage.” CMS.Gov, www.cms.gov/marketplace/health-plans-issuers/minimum-essential-coverage. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025. “Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) - Glossary.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/glossary/minimum-essential-coverage/. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025. “Qualifying Health Coverage - Glossary.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/glossary/qualifying-health-coverage/. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Top 5 Episodes of 2025
Sarah reveals the top Agent Survival Guide Podcast episodes of 2025. Did your favorite episode make the cut? You’ll have to listen to find out! 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Links to the Top ASG Podcast Episodes of 2025: 2026 Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles 5 Ways to Survive Enrollment Season 2026 7 Actions You Can Take If Your Medicare Plans Go Non-Commissionable The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover Understanding the ACA Marketplace & Exchanges Honorable Mention: 2026 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info 2026 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D 5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe 6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads Celebrating 20 Years of Medicare AEPs & Growth: Looking Back at 2005 FMO vs. IMO vs. NMO vs. MGA vs. GA: What’s the Difference? How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly Optimize Your Online Presence ft. Aaron Kassover Setting SMART Goals in 2025 The Best Appointment Schedulers for Insurance Agents Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Holly Jolly Holiday Traditions
Join our merry elves as we celebrate the newest Content Library release: A Happy, Healthy Christmas! We talk content with a cup of holiday cheer and a heaping side of nostalgia. Resources: Content Library – A Happy, Health Christmas Packet Ritter Insurance Marketing Content Library YouTube Series – Cold Coffee & Stale Donuts Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Holiday Gift Guide 2025
Sarah and Tina are back with another gift guide to help you survive holiday shopping! Listen as they chat about their favorite gifts to give and maybe one or two they’re hoping to receive this year. 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Mentioned in this episode: Pinch Provisions Quince Uncommon Goods Waxing Poetic Other episodes you might like: Celebrating 20 Years of Medicare AEPs & Growth: Looking Back at 2005 Holiday Toy Shopping Guide 2025 How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Questions to Ask Clients Shopping for an ACA Plan
Use these questions to help your client find the right Affordable Care Act coverage! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Tips for Finding Supplemental Coverage for ACA Plans ACA Enrolment Periods Explained Everything You Need to Know About the ACA OEP FAQs About Selling On-Exchange & Off-Exchange Under-65 Plans How the ACA Subsidy Cliff Impacts Shopping for Marketplace Coverage How to Help Client Navigate ACA Marketplace Subsidies & Taxes Meet Your Sales Team Surviving OEP The Ritter Docs – Under 65 There’s More to Life Insurance Than Just a Policy The State of the ACA Market in 2025 Understanding ACA Plan Metal Tiers Understanding the ACA Marketplace & Exchanges What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Your Medicare & ACA Clients References: “Low Cost Marketplace Health Care, Qualifying Income Levels.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs/. Accessed 4 Dec. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Enrollment Stats, Snapshots & Spotlights
The Friday Five for December 12, 2025: Wrapping Up AEP 2026 Spotify Wrapped 2025 Pebble Index 01 2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #1 KFF 2026 Medicare Advantage Spotlight Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Pebble Index 01: Perez, Sarah. “Pebble’s Founder Introduces a $75 AI Smart Ring for Recording Brief Notes with a Press of a Button.” Techcrunch.Com, TechCrunch, 9 Dec. 2025, techcrunch.com/2025/12/09/pebbles-founder-introduces-a-75-ai-smart-ring-for-recording-brief-notes-with-a-press-of-a-button/. Chokkattu, Julian. “Pebble is Making a $75 Smart Ring.” Wired.com, Wired, https://www.wired.com/story/pebble-index-ring/. Pierce, David. “The next Pebble gadget is the Index 01, a ring with a microphone.” theverge.com, The Verge, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.theverge.com/gadgets/840352/pebble-index-smart-ring-launch-price. 2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #1: “Marketplace 2025 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Dec. 2024, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2025-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-0. “Marketplace 2026 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 5 Dec. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2026-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot. KFF 2026 Medicare Advantage Spotlight: Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2026 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2026-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/. Freed, Meredith, Nancy Ochieng, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2026 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Premiums and Benefits.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2026-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-premiums-and-benefits/. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The 2026 Medicare Part D Redesign Changes Agents Should Know
New coverage year, new changes to Medicare Part D! Don't miss our refresher on the Part D Redesign updates coming in 2026. Familiarize yourself with these changes now so you can be a helpful resource for your clients! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2025 Medicare Part D Redesign Updates The Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Determination Changes for 2025 or Beyond References: “Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (CMS-4208-F).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription-final. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Announces Actions to Lower Prescription Drug Prices.” The White House, The United States Government, 15 Apr. 2025, https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/04/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-announces-actions-to-lower-prescription-drug-prices/. “Final CY 2026 Part D Redesign Program Instructions.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/final-cy-2026-part-d-redesign-program-instructions. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “H.R.5376 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 | Congress.Gov | Library of Congress.” Congress.Gov, https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5376. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “Lowering Drug Prices by Once Again Putting Americans First.” The White House, The United States Government, 15 Apr. 2025, https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/lowering-drug-prices-by-once-again-putting-americans-first/. “Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage: CMS Finalizes Revised Simplified Determination Method for 2026.” Risk Strategies - Part of the Brown & Brown Team, https://www.risk-strategies.com/blog/medicare-part-d-creditable-coverage-cms-finalizes-revised-simplified-determination-method-for-2026. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medicare-prescription-payment-plan. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Santiago, Abdie, and Stephnie A. John. “The IRA in 2025: The Future of Medicare Part d.” Mintz, https://www.mintz.com/insights-center/viewpoints/2146/2025-02-13-ira-2025-future-medicare-part-d. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Aboulenein, Ahmed. “Trump Signs Healthcare Executive Order That Includes a Win for Pharma Companies | Reuters.” Reuters, https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-signs-healthcare-executive-order-that-includes-win-pharma-companies-2025-04-15/. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Things to Think About Post-AEP
In this episode we’re highlighting some important things to think about while AEP is still fresh in your mind. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 3 Benefits of Contracting to Sell Medicare Advantage Plans Outside of AEP 8 Powerful Practices for Selling Prescription Drug Plans 2026 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D A Review of Integrity’s Top Medicare Quoting Tools Carriers with Ritter Get a FREE Portfolio Review IntegrityCONNECT Insurance Agents as TPMOS: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You Meet Your Sales Team PlanEnroll – Take Your Business to the Next Level Ritter Summits Surviving AEP The Benefits of Joining a Top Insurance FMO The Definitive Guide to Getting Leads and Prospecting for Medicare Sales FREE eBook The Ritter Platform The Ultimate Agent Resource List Pt. 3: Staying Organized What Agents Forget to Do When Preparing for Appointments Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

What Are the CMS Medicare Gift Rules?
Before you wrap it up and put a bow on it, does that gift for your Medicare client follow CMS guidelines? Listen to this episode of the Agent Survival Guide Podcast to find out and stay compliant! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Affinity Partnerships for Insurance Agents Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Sales Event The Complete Guide to Client Loyalty and Retention What are the Medicare Gift Rules? References: “Associations Urge Stronger Oversight of MA Marketing Practices.” Npaonline.Com, National Pace Association, https://www.npaonline.org/about-npa/news/news/2024/08/07/associations-urge-tougher-enforcement-of-anti-predatory-medicare-advantage-marketing-practices. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. “General Questions Regarding Certain Fraud and Abuse Authorities.” Office of Inspector General | Government Oversight | U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 8 July 2024, https://www.oig.hhs.gov/faqs/general-questions-regarding-certain-fraud-and-abuse-authorities. “Subpart V—Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federal Register :: Request Access, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. “Subpart V—Part D Communication Requirements.” Federal Register :: Request Access, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. “OIG-Policy-Statement-Gifts-of-Nominal-Value.Pdf.” Oig.Hhs.Gov/, https://www.oig.hhs.gov/documents/special-advisory-bulletins/887/OIG-Policy-Statement-Gifts-of-Nominal-Value.pdf. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. “The Fine Line between Gifts and Bribes.” Adams & Associates, PLC, 14 Nov. 2023, https://www.azwhitecollarcrime.com/blog/2019/04/01/the-fine-line-between-gifts-and-bribes/. 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.

Developing Power Habits ft. Dr. Noah St. John
bonusDr. Noah St. John joins Sarah to talk about his Freedom Lifestyle Formula, Power Habits, and other strategies he's written about over the years. Find out why Dr. Noah says that willpower doesn't help change habits and there's more to success than just mindset. Get ready to unlock your potential with his honest and actionable strategies. Find Dr. Noah St. John Online: Breakthrough With Noah Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Official Website Power Habits® The 7-Figure Life The Book of Afformations™ YouTube Resources: How Insurance Agents Can Turn Anxiety into Fuel How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly How to Build Intentional Value ft. Neil Reich Optimize Your Online Presence ft. Aaron Kassover 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 [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

Do's and Don'ts of Medicare Compliance
As a certified insurance agent, staying CMS compliant is a crucial component to your success. Listen to this episode for a mini crash-course on best practices, guidelines, and resources to stay compliant. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: FAQs About the Medicare Call Recording Requirements FAQs & Guidelines on Compliant Medicare Marketing Materials Guidelines for Sharing Personal Beneficiary Data with Other TPMOs How to Stay Compliant During All Medicare Sales Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You IntegrityCONNECT Login Learn more about PlanEnroll Ritter's Preferred Partners What to Know About SOAs in Medicare Health and Prescription Drug Plan Sales Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event What Agents Can't Say During Medicare Sales Appointments What CMS Requires Agents to Discuss Prior to Medicare Enrollments What Not to Say During Medicare Educational and Sales Events Where It All Begins: Obtaining Permission to Contact for Medicare Sales References: “Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “Medicare Marketing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-guidelines. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “Part D Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. “Federal Register.” Federal Register, https://www.federalregister.gov/. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Why Plan N Is Becoming a Go-To Medicare Supplement Choice
Medicare Supplement comes in a few different variations, and each has its own merits. In this episode of our ASG Podcast, learn more about Med Supp Plan N and why it deserves a spot in your portfolio. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Ritter & Integrity Webinars/Events The Ideal Client for Medicare Supplement Plans When Do Med Supp Plans K, L, M, & N Make Sense? References: “2024 Rate Increase Justification Plain ...” UHC.Com, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, https://www.uhc.com/content/dam/uhcdotcom/en/Legal/required-state-notices/2024-VT-Rate-Increase-Justification-AARP-Medicare-Supp-plans.pdf. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Rosenberg, Alex, and Holly Carey. “How Much Does a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan Cost?” NerdWallet, https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/medicare/medigap-cost. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Maiale, Ben. “Medicare Supplement Premium Rates – Looking to the Past and Planning for the Future.” Genre, https://www.genre.com/us/knowledge/publications/2023/october/medicare-supplement-premium-rates-en. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Whicheloe, Emily. “Medigap Changes in 2020.” Medicare Rights Center, 11 Apr. 2019, https://www.medicarerights.org/medicare-answers/2019/04/11/blog-medigap-changes-in-2020. “NHE Fact Sheet.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/data-research/statistics-trends-and-reports/national-health-expenditure-data/nhe-fact-sheet. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Noam, Eli. Medigap Plans Analysis Nov 2023, Columbia University Emeritus Professors in Columbia, https://professorsemeritus.columbia.edu/sites/professorsemeritus.columbia.edu/files/content/PDFs/Medigap-plans-analysis-Nov-2023.pdf. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025. Fuglesten Biniek, Jeannie, et al. “Traditional Medicare Spending Fell Almost 6% in 2020 as Service Use Declined Early in the COVID-19 Pandemic.” KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, https://www.kff.org/medicare/traditional-medicare-spending-fell-almost-6-in-2020-as-service-use-declined-early-in-the-covid-19-pandemic/. 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.

4 Ways to Help Your Clients Find Their Medicare Beneficiary Identifier
Your client’s Medicare Beneficiary Identifier is an important piece of the enrollment application. Discover the multiple ways for a client to locate their MBI and why it’s important. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Stress Relief Tips to Get You Through AEP The 2026 COLA Increase & How it Affects Your Clients What CMS Requires Agents to Discuss Prior to Medicare Enrollments References: “Contact Medicare.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/talk-to-someone. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers (Mbis).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/training-education/partner-outreach-resources/new-medicare-card/medical-beneficiary-identifiers-mbis. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “The United States Social Security Administration.” Social Security, www.ssa.gov/. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

5 Takeaways from the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Proposed Rule
CMS recently published their 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Proposed Rule. In this week’s Friday Five episode, we talk initial takeaways and the impact on agents and beneficiaries. 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 [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2026 Medicare Cost Roundup 2026 Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles Government & Insurers Reconsider Short-Term Limited Duration Product Changes How the 2027 Medicare Advantage & Part D Proposed Rule Could Impact Insurance Agents & Beneficiaries Prescription Drug Pricing: MFN & GENEROUS The 2026 COLA Increase & How it Affects Your Clients References: Hagerstrom, Chris. “11 Key Changes in CMS’s Contract Year 2027 Proposed Rule That Agents Should Be Watching.” Jsaonline.Com, Jack Schroeder and Associates, LLC, 2 Dec. 2025, www.jsaonline.com/resources/blog/11-key-changes-in-cmss-contract-year-2027-proposed-rule-that-agents-should-be-watching/. “Contract Year 2027 Policy & Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, & Medicare Cost Plan Program Proposed Rule.” Chamberhillstrategies.Com, Chamber Hill Strategies, 2 Dec. 2025, chamberhill.com/insights/cy2027-ma-part-d-proposed-rule/. “Contract Year 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Proposed Rule.” CMS.Gov, CMS, 25 Nov. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2027-medicare-advantage-part-d-proposed-rule. Minemyer, Paige. “CMS Proposes Significant Overhauls to Medicare Advantage Star Ratings Metrics.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 25 Nov. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-proposes-significant-overhauls-medicare-advantage-star-ratings-metrics. Singh, Vandana. “CMS Unveils 2027 Rule To Refocus Medicare Advantage On Outcomes.” Benzinga.Com, Benzinga, 26 Nov. 2025, www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/11/49083625/cms-unveils-2027-rule-to-refocus-medicare-advantage-on-outcomes. “Medicare Program; Contract Year 2027 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, and Medicare Cost Plan Program.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 28 Nov. 2025, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/11/28/2025-21456/medicare-program-contract-year-2027-policy-and-technical-changes-to-the-medicare-advantage-program. 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.

Tips for Working With a Difficult Client
Every career field has its challenges. One challenge you’ll likely encounter at some point as an insurance agent is a difficult client. In this episode, we’ve got tips and advice about what to do in those situations! Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources How Client Retention Boosts Insurance Sales Keys to Client Retention: Digital Communication Keys to Client Retention: Face-to-Face Communication PlanEnroll – Quoting & Enrollment Platform The Complete Guide to Client Loyalty and Retention FREE eBook Download The Ritter Platform What Agents Can’t Say During Medicare Sales Appointments References: Sloan, Kayla. “4 Reasons You Shouldn’t Drop a Client on a Whim.” Due, 21 Feb. 2023, https://due.com/drop-a-client/. “Explore Your Medicare Coverage Options.” Medicare.Gov, https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/. Accessed 6 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.

Ep 73410 Tips to Submitting an Error-Free Medicare Enrollment Application
Double and triple check your enrollment applications for errors! Make sure your applications don't get flagged during the submissions process by following these tips. Read the text version Register with Ritter & Unlock Digital Tools Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Announcing IntegrityCONNECT Meet Your Ritter Sales Team IntegrityCONNECT Leads FAQs PlanEnroll – Take Your Business to the Next Level Integrity Sales Technology – Ritter Docs What to Know About SOAs in Medicare Health and Prescription Drug Plan Sales IntegrityCONNECT References: “Social Security Performance.” Social Security, www.ssa.gov/ssa-performance. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. “ Title 42 Chapter IV Subchapter B Part 422 Subpart V § 422.2264.” Federal Register, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V/section-422.2264. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. Ruhle, Jessica. “What Do Seniors Do Online? 2025 Data for Marketers.” Creating Results, 26 Mar. 2025, www.creatingresults.com/blog/2025/03/13/what-do-seniors-do-online-2025-data-for-marketers/. 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.

How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals
Your clients are a great resource to generate new leads. Happy and loyal clients will tell friends and family about your remarkable service. Find out how to build a referral network with current clients to grow your business! Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Building Client Loyalty: More Than Just a Plan Generate Medicare Leads Using Marketing Materials from ShopRitterIM How Insurance Agents Can Learn About Their Social Media Audience How Relationship Marketing Can Make the Difference in Your Agency Integrity Tools Register with Ritter Shop Ritter Insurance Marketing The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Establishing Successful Affinity Partnerships FREE eBook The Ritter Blog Where It All Begins: Obtaining Permission to Contact for Medicare Sales References: “Free Design Tool: Presentations, Video, Social Media | CANVA.” Canva, Canva, www.canva.com/. Accessed 1 Dec 2025. “Free Online Document Editing with Microsoft Word: Microsoft 365.” Free Online Document Editing with Microsoft Word | Microsoft 365, Microsoft, www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/word. Accessed 1 Dec 2025. “Word-of-Mouth Marketing: How to Get Happy Customers to Advocate for Your Business.” BigCommerce.Com, BigCommerce, 17 Nov. 2025, www.bigcommerce.com/articles/ecommerce/word-of-mouth-marketing/. Max Freedman. “Why Word of Mouth Beats Traditional Advertising.” Business News Daily, Business News Daily, 17 Jan. 2024, www.businessnewsdaily.com/2353-consumer-ad-trust.html. “Medicare Marketing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-guidelines. Accessed 1 Dec 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X (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/

What Agents Can’t Say During Medicare Sales Appointments
Serve your clients and stay CMS compliant. That’s your priority as an insurance agent. Here at Ritter, we’re happy to help! Check out this episode for a refresher on what you can’t say during Medicare sales appointments and why. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Tips for Making a Better Insurance Sales Pitch Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You Meet Your Ritter Sales Team PlanEnroll The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Generating Referrals FREE eBook Download What Are the ACA Marketplace Alternatives for Health Insurance?What Are the CMS Medicare Gift Rules? What to Know About SOAs in Medicare Health and Prescription Drug Sales References: “2024 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule (CMS-4201-F).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2024-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-final-rule-cms-4201-f. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. Wrage, Alexandra. “Bribery Is Bad... for Business.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 25 Jan. 2017, www.forbes.com/sites/alexandrawrage/2017/01/25/bribery-is-bad-for-business/. Freed, Meredith, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings.” KFF, 15 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/. “Medicare Marketing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-guidelines. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. “Subpart V—Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Hidden Value of Selling Medicare Supplements During AEP
The Annual Enrollment Period holds many sales opportunities; some you may not know the full value of! Discover how Medicare Supplements can benefit you and your clients during AEP! Read the text version Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: A Comprehensive Guide to Medicare Supplement Underwriting FREE eBook Download CSG Actuarial – Quote & Enroll Ancillary Solutions Cure Your Client’s Needs with a PDP Finding the Best Medicare Supplement Plan Letter for Your Client Guiding Your Clients Through Med Supp Underwriting How to Save Your Clients Money on Prescription Drugs Meet Your Ritter Sales Team Medicare Supplements Full the Gaps in Your Portfolio The Ideal Client for Medicare Supplement Plans What to Know When Replacing Existing Med Supp Plans for Clients When Do Med Supp Plans K, L, M, & N, Make Sense? References: “Am Best.” Web.Ambest.Com, www.web.ambest.com/home. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025. “Get Ready to Buy.” Medicare.Gov, www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025. “How Much Does Medicare Drug Coverage Cost?” Medicare.Gov, www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/part-d/basics/costs. Accessed 29 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.

FAQs & Guidelines on Compliant Medicare Marketing Materials
Marketing is a vital part of any business. But when it comes to marketing your services as an agent selling Medicare, there are specific rules and regulations. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of FAQs around compliant Medicare marketing. Press play to get started! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2026 Medicare Advantage & Part D Certification Info Certification Center – Ritter Insurance Marketing Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance FAQs About the Medicare Call Recording Requirements Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources Field Notes on Traditional Marketing Resources Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You IntegrityCONNECT – Save time. Sell more. PlanEnroll - Take Your Business to the Next Level ShopRitterIM Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents FREE eBook Download References: “Digital and Email Marketing Platform | Constant Contact.” Constant Contact, www.constantcontact.com/. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. “Medicare Communications and Marketing Guidelines (MCMG) Date: 02/09/2022.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-communications-marketing-guidelines-2-9-2022.pdf. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. “Prohibition of Misuse of Symbols, Emblems, or Names in Reference to Social Security or Medicare.” Social Security Act §1140, www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/ssact/title11/1140.htm. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. “Subpart V—Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. “Subpart V—Part D Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 10 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Holiday Toy Shopping Guide 2025
Special delivery… the official ASG Podcast guide to holiday toy shopping in 2025! We’ve done the research, now it’s time to report our findings. Which toy will come out at number one this year? You’ll have to listen to find out! Agent Survival Guide Podcast Toy List 2025: Bluey and Bingo Supermarket Playset: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Cows in Space: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart DJ Furby: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Maggie the Feed & Follow Cow: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie MeowMazing Interactive Dollhouse: Amazon | Target | Walmart Gui Gui Slime Kit: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Jurassic Park Primal Hatch Interactive Toy: Amazon | Official Site | Walmart Lovevery Play Kits: Amazon | Official Site | Target Monopoly Scrabble: Amazon | Official Site | Walmart Moose Match Mayhem: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Nintendo Switch 2: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Rubik's Cube Pulse Cube: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Tamagotchi Paradise: Amazon | Official Site Toniebox 2: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart UNO Show 'Em No Mercy: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart 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. 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

7 Actions You Can Take If Your Medicare Plans Go Non-Commissionable
Frustrated by Medicare plans going non-commissionable? We get it, and we've got some actionable tips for insurance agents navigating these changes. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Finding the Best Medicare Supplement Plan Letter for Your Client Get Your Medicare Advantage Sales Contracts Here — Recommendations for 2026 How Much Money Can Agents Make Selling Ancillary Health Insurance? How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals Medicare Supplements Fill the Gaps in Your Portfolio Signs It's Time to Expand Your Insurance Portfolio & Make the Move! Why Plan N Is Becoming a Go-To Medicare Supplement Choice References: “Agent Broker Compensation.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-marketing-guidelines/agent-broker-compensation. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. McGough, Matt, et al. “How Has Healthcare Utilization Changed since the Pandemic?” Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, 31 Jan. 2023, www.healthsystemtracker.org/chart-collection/how-has-healthcare-utilization-changed-since-the-pandemic/. Copeland, Lindsey. “More People Are Enrolling in Medicare Advantage at High Cost to Medicare and Taxpayers.” Medicare Rights Center, 31 July 2025, www.medicarerights.org/medicare-watch/2025/07/31/more-people-are-enrolling-in-medicare-advantage-at-hight-cost-to-medicare-and-taxpayers. MacDonald, Ilene. “Regulatory Roundup: Judge Vacates CMS Regulation to Limit Ma Broker, Agent Pay Caps; Elevance Health Loses Star Ratings Case; and More.” RISE Health, www.risehealth.org/insights-articles/article/regulatory-roundup-judge-vacates-cms-regulation-to-limit-ma-broker-agent-pay-caps-elevance-health-loses-star-ratings-case-and-more/. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. “Welcome to Medicare.” Medicare, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.medicare.gov/. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Sales Event
Sales events are a great way to generate Medicare leads. Learn best practices and how to stay CMS compliant while hosting a Medicare sales event in this episode! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 3 Easy Ways to Build Your Insurance Sales Territory eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents How to Stay Compliant During All Medicare Sales Ritter Insurance Marketing Carrier Pages Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event What Not to Say During Medicare Educational and Sales Events References: “Subpart V—Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. “Subpart V—Part D Communication Requirements.” Federal Register, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event
Get ready to host a Medicare educational event with help from the Agent Survival Guide! We highlight what agents need to know to stay compliant with your carriers and CMS Rules. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents How to Organize a Turning 65 Seminar on a Budget How to Stay Compliant During All Medicare Sales Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Sales Event What Not to Say During Medicare Educational and Sales Events References: “Federal Register.” FederalRegister.Gov, www.federalregister.gov/. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. “Medicare Marketing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/managed-care-marketing/medicare-guidelines. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.`

How Health Insurance Agents Can Stay TCPA Compliant
Learn more about how the Telephone Consumer Protection Act applies to insurance agents. ⚠️ Spoiler Alert: the TCPA also applies to text messages. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Federal TCPA Compliance Checklist PDF Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing Guidelines for Sharing Personal Beneficiary Data with Other TPMOs How to Stay Compliant During All Medicare Sales Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You Where It All Begins: Obtaining Permission to Contact for Medicare Sales References: “California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).” Oag.ca.Gov, State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General, 28 Jan. 2025, oag.ca.gov/privacy/ccpa. “CAN-SPAM Act: A Compliance Guide for Business.” Ftc.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, 22 July 2025, www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/can-spam-act-compliance-guide-business. “Federal Trade Commission.” Ftc.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, 3 Apr. 2024, www.ftc.gov/about-ftc. “Federal Trade Commission Do Not Call Registry.” Donotcall.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, www.donotcall.gov/. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025. DeTorres, Dustin. “Navigating Telemarketing Laws: What Insurance Agents Need to Know About Calling Aged Leads.” Badassinsuranceleads.Com, Badass Insurance Leads, 16 Jan. 2025, badassinsuranceleads.com/navigating-telemarketing-laws-what-insurance-agents-need-to-know-about-calling-aged-leads/. “Telemarketing in NY.” NYSenate.Gov, The New York State Senate, www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GBS/399-Z. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. “Telemarketing in PA.” Attorneygeneral.Gov, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, www.attorneygeneral.gov/resources/telemarketing-in-pa/. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. “Telemarketing Sales Rule.” Ftc.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, 25 Oct. 2024, www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/rules/telemarketing-sales-rule. “Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).” Fcc.Gov, Federal Communications Commission, www.fcc.gov/sites/default/files/tcpa-rules.pdf. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. “UPDATE: 11th Circuit Vacates FCC’s One-to-One TCPA Consent Rule.” Wiley.Law, Wiley Rein LLP, www.wiley.law/alert-UPDATE-11th-Circuit-Vacates-FCCs-One-to-One-TCPA-Consent-Rule. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. Stefen. “What Is TCPA Express Consent?” Dnc.Com, Contact Center Compliance, 16 June 2025, www.dnc.com/blog/what-tcpa-express-consent. “What Is the TCPA?” Dnc.Com, Contact Center Compliance, www.dnc.com/what-is-tcpa/. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. Stines, Robert A., and Jeremy D. Richardson. “What to Know About Florida’s Telephone Solicitation Act.” Sgrlaw.Com, Freeborn & Peters LLP, www.sgrlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/What-to-Know-About-Floridas-Telephone-Solicitation-Act-Final.pdf. Accessed 23 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.

2026 Medicare Cost Roundup
The Friday Five for November 21, 2025: Update on Telehealth Prescription Flexibilities Google Calendar Tasks Feature Medigap F, G & J Deductibles for 2026 Medigap K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits for 2026 Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles + MA, MAPD & Medicare Part D Premium Projections 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 [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Apple iPhone Pocket Sold Out: Kelly, Samantha. “Apple’s $230 Cloth iPhone Pouch Is Already Sold Out - Here’s What It’s Like.” Bloomberg.Com, Bloomberg, 14 Nov. 2025, www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-11-14/apple-issey-miyake-iphone-pocket-price-colors-review-where-to-buy-sold-out. Mzizi, Yola. “Confused by the iPhone Pocket? That’s by Design.” Nytimes.Com, New York Times, 14 Nov. 2025, www.nytimes.com/2025/11/14/style/iphone-pocket-apple-issey-miyake.html. Phelan, David. “iPhone Pocket: Exactly Why The Issey Miyake Collaboration Sold Out Super-Fast.” Forbes.Com, Forbes Magazine, 16 Nov. 2025, https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/11/16/apple-iphone-pocket-why-the-issey-miyake-collaboration-sold-out-in-hours/. Update on Telehealth Prescription Flexibilities: Beavins, Emma. “DEA to Publish 4th Extension of Telehealth Prescribing Rule in Wave of Relief for Virtual Care Providers.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 13 Nov. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/dea-publish-fourth-extension-telehealth-prescribing-rule-wave-relief-telehealth. “Pending Fourth Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications .” Reginfo.Gov, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, 10 Nov. 2025, www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eoDetails?rrid=1162112. Google Calendar Tasks Feature: Bonifield, Stevie. “Google Calendar Can Finally Block off Time without Faking a Meeting.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 17 Nov. 2025, www.theverge.com/news/822492/google-calendar-tasks-busy-time-block. Bonggolto, Jay. “Google Calendar’s New Task Feature Is the Productivity Upgrade You Actually Need.” Androidcentral.Com, Android Central, 18 Nov. 2025, https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/google-calendars-new-task-feature-is-the-productivity-upgrade-you-actually-need. Washenko, Anna. “Google Calendar Now Lets You Schedule Tasks.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 17 Nov. 2025, www.engadget.com/apps/google-calendar-now-lets-you-schedule-tasks-231026000.html. Moore, Mike. “Need to Get Some Work Done? There’s No Need Create a Fake Meeting to Get Some Time to Yourself, Thanks to This New Google Calendar Tool.” TechRadar.Com, TechRadar, 18 Nov. 2025, www.techradar.com/pro/software-services/need-to-get-some-work-done-theres-no-need-create-a-fake-meeting-to-get-some-time-to-yourself-thanks-to-this-new-google-calendar-tool. Medigap F, G & J Deductibles for 2026: “F, G & J Deductible Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/f-g-j-deductible-announcements. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. Medigap K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits for 2026: “K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/k-l-out-of-pocket-limits-announcements. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles + MA, MAPD & Medicare Part D Premium Projections: “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. “2026 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2026-medicare-parts-b-premiums-deductibles. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. “CMS Fast Facts.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Data, www.data.cms.gov/fact-sheet/cms-fast-facts. Accessed 18 Nov. 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. “Social Security Announces 2.8 Percent Benefit Increase for 2026 .” SSA, 24 Oct. 2025, www.blog.ssa.gov/social-security-announces-benefit-increase-for-2026/. Resources: 2026 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Premiums 2026 Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles Celebrating 20 Years of Medicare AEPs & Growth: Looking Back at 2005 Prescription Drug Pricing: MFN & GENEROUS The 2026 COLA Increase & How it Affects Your 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-insur

How the ACA Subsidy Cliff Impacts Clients Shopping for Marketplace Coverage
Changes are coming to ACA subsidies that you should be working with your clients to prepare for. We’ve got what agents need to know about Affordable Care Act Subsidies and how it affects your clients. Read the text version Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Boost Your Commissions with a New Hospital Indemnity Sales Strategy Meet Your Ritter Sales Team Sense Success with Dental, Vision, and Hearing Plans The State of the ACA Market in 2025 What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Your Medicare & ACA Clients References: Sparks, Grace, Lunna Lopes, et al. “Americans’ Challenges with Health Care Costs.” KFF, 15 Sept. 2025, www.kff.org/health-costs/americans-challenges-with-health-care-costs/. Kffjaredo. “Congressional District Interactive Map: HOW MUCH WILL ACA Premium Payments Rise If Enhanced Subsidies Expire?” KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/congressional-district-interactive-map-how-much-will-aca-premium-payments-rise-if-enhanced-subsidies-expire/. Swagel, Phillip L. “Estimated Effects on the Number of Uninsured People in 2034 Resulting From Policies Incorporated Within CBO’s Baseline Projections and H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” CBO.Gov, Congressional Budget Office, www.cbo.gov/system/files/2025-06/Wyden-Pallone-Neal_Letter_6-4-25.pdf. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025. Rakshit, Shameek, et al. “How Does Cost Affect Access to Healthcare?” Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, 7 Apr. 2025, www.healthsystemtracker.org/chart-collection/cost-affect-access-care/. “How Does the American Rescue Plan Affect Premiums?” Beyond the Basics, 1 July 2024, www.healthreformbeyondthebasics.org/category/new-laws-policies/how-does-the-american-rescue-plan-impact-premiums/. Tolbert, Jennifer, et al. “Key Facts about the Uninsured Population.” KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/uninsured/key-facts-about-the-uninsured-population/. “Offsetting ACA Enhanced Subsidy Extensions.” Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, www.crfb.org/blogs/offsetting-aca-enhanced-subsidy-extensions. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025. Coughlin, Teresa A., et al. “Sources of Payment for Uncompensated Care for the Uninsured.” KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/sources-of-payment-for-uncompensated-care-for-the-uninsured/. Kffjaredo. “Who Might Lose Eligibility for Affordable Care Act Marketplace Subsidies If Enhanced Tax Credits Are Not Extended?” KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/who-might-lose-eligibility-for-affordable-care-act-marketplace-subsidies-if-enhanced-tax-credits-are-not-extended/. 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.

Understanding the ACA Marketplace & Exchanges
In this episode we explain marketplace exchanges, ACA enrollment, and share educational Ritter resources for selling ACA! Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 3 Benefits of Selling ACA Insurance Plans 4 Reasons Why Ritter Insurance Marketing Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency ACA Enrollment Periods Explained Agent Requirements for ACA Sales Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT Everything You Need to Know About the ACA OEP FAQs About Selling On-Exchange & Off-Exchange Under-65 Plans Learn more about Ritter Insurance Marketing! Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing Simplify Marketplace Enrollment with HealthSherpa The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans References: “Getting Health Coverage Outside Open Enrollment.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/coverage-outside-open-enrollment/special-enrollment-period/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025. “The Marketplace in Your State.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/marketplace-in-your-state/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025. “Welcome to the Health Insurance Marketplace®.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/. Accessed 31 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.

2026 Medicare Part A & B Premiums & Deductibles
🚨THIS JUST IN: 2025 Medicare Part A and B premium and deductible numbers are live! Listen for details on the cost of Medicare for your clients in coverage year 2026. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2026 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Premiums 5 MORE Real-Life Medicare Sales Scenarios and How to Handle Them 5 Real-Life Medicare Sales Scenarios & How to Handle Them 5 Ways to Survive Enrollment Season 2026 Prescription Drug Pricing: MFN & GENEROUS Stress Relief Tips to Get You Through AEP References: “2026 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2026-medicare-parts-b-premiums-deductibles. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025. “CMS Fast Facts.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Data, www.data.cms.gov/fact-sheet/cms-fast-facts. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025. “Social Security Announces 2.8 Percent Benefit Increase for 2026 .” SSA, 24 Oct. 2025, www.blog.ssa.gov/social-security-announces-benefit-increase-for-2026/. 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.

7 Reasons Clients Switch Medicare Plans During AEP
Nothing stays the same. Your clients’ health needs, financial situations, and the Medicare industry itself can change each year. Learn how to best help your clients switch coverage with these 7 scenarios. Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Reasons Why Ritter Insurance Marketing Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency 5 Tips to Make the Most of AEP How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing The Benefits of Selling D-SNPs The Ritter Blog What to Know When Replacing Existing Med Supp Plans for Clients References: Emerson, Jakob. “32 Health Systems Dropping Medicare Advantage Plans | 2024 - Becker’s Hospital Review | Healthcare News & Analysis.” Beckershospitalreview.Com, Becker’s Hospital Review, www.beckershospitalreview.com/finance/15-health-systems-dropping-medicare-advantage-plans-2024/. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025. “2024 Medicare Advantage and Part D Star Ratings.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2024-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-star-ratings. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025. Pifer, Rebecca. “Humana and CVS Are Downsizing Their Medicare Advantage Plans for 2025. Which Insurers Could Benefit?” Healthcaredive.Com, Healthcare Dive, 10 June 2024, www.healthcaredive.com/news/humana-cvs-medicare-advantage-benefit-plan-cuts-2025-unitedhealth/716764/. 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.

Halfway Through AEP: Reflect & Renew Your Medicare Sales Strategies
Congrats on making it this far into AEP! Take time to access what is and isn’t working for your business and hear our tips for improvement! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Tips for Making a Better Insurance Sales Pitch 5 Tips for Selling Medicare Advantage Plans 8 Powerful Practices for Selling Prescriptions Drug Plans Events & Webinars with Ritter Insurance Marketing FREE eBooks & Guides for Agents Get a FREE Portfolio Review Get Your Medicare Advantage Sales Contracts Here – Recommendations for 2026 How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments How Client Retention Boosts Insurance Sales How to Follow up with Medicare Clients Compliantly How to Survive AEP: Wellness Tips for Insurance Agents IntegrityCONNECT IntegrityCONNECT Leads Knight School Training for Agents Learn More About PlanEnroll Organization Tips & Tricks for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period PlanEnroll Lead Program Training Registration Stress Relief Tips to Get You Through AEP When Do Med Supp Plans K, L, M, & N Make Sense? Why Being a Likable Agent Is Good for Your Business References: Diamond, Dan. “10,000 People Are Now Enrolling in Medicare - Every Day.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 11 June 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/dandiamond/2015/07/13/aging-in-america-10000-people-enroll-in-medicare-every-day/#1ebb581f3657. 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.

Prescription Drug Pricing: MFN & GENEROUS
The Friday Five for November 14, 2025: iPhone Pocket Brings Back… Pockets. CMS Rural Health Transformation Program Government Shutdown Update Most-Favored Nation Drug Pricing CMS GENEROUS Model 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 [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Phone Pocket Brings Back… Pockets. Articles of Interest – More Pockets Hart, Jordan. “Apple and Issey Miyake Design $230 Iphone Pocket Inspired by a ‘Piece of Cloth.’” Business Insider, Business Insider, www.businessinsider.com/apple-issey-miyake-design-iphone-pocket-2025-11. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Crossbody Strap – Sienna.” Apple, www.apple.com/shop/product/mggn4ll/a/crossbody-strap-sienna. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. Cross, Greta. “Internet Conflicted over Apple’s $230 Iphone Pocket Case. See New Product.” USA Today, Gannett Satellite Information Network, www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2025/11/11/iphone-pocket-apple-phone-case/87214270007/. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Introducing Iphone Pocket: A Beautiful Way to Wear and Carry iPhone.” Apple Newsroom, 12 Nov. 2025, www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/11/introducing-iphone-pocket-a-beautiful-way-to-wear-and-carry-iphone/. Jewiss, Connor. “The Iphone Pocket Is the Apple Accessory You Never Saw Coming.” CNET, www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/the-iphone-pocket-is-the-apple-accessory-you-never-saw-coming/. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. Rural Health Transformation Program: “All 50 States Seek to Transform Rural Health with CMS.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/all-50-states-seek-transform-rural-health-cms. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. Muoio, Dave. “All 50 States Submit Applications for $50B Rural Health Transformation Program.” Fierce Healthcare, www.fiercehealthcare.com/providers/cms-opens-state-applications-50b-rural-health-transformation-program. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. Government Shutdown Update: Swenson, Ali. “An Emerging Shutdown Deal Doesn’t Extend Expiring Health Subsidies. Here’s What Could Happen to Them.” AP News, AP News, 10 Nov. 2025, www.apnews.com/article/shutdown-health-tax-credits-affordable-care-act-2b5ae3651ff16783a00e00dc1ce264bf. “Division A - Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026.” United States Senate Committee on Appropriations, www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/continuing_appropriations_act_2026_bill_text.pdf. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Division B - Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agency Appropriations Act, 2026.” United States Senate Committee on Appropriations, www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/agfy26conf.pdf. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Division C - Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2026.” United States Senate Committee on Appropriations, www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/lbfy26aconf.pdf. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Division D - Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026.” United States Senate Committee on Appropriations, www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/mcvafy26conf.pdf. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Federal Shutdown Deal Would Wipe out Hard-Won THC Consumables Market in Texas.” Dallas News, The Dallas Morning News, 12 Nov. 2025, www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2025/11/11/federal-shutdown-deal-would-wipe-out-hard-won-thc-consumables-market-in-texas/. Caballero, Martín. “Senate Advances Hemp Ban amid Growing Prohibition Fears.” Brewbound, 11 Nov. 2025, www.brewbound.com/news/senate-advances-hemp-ban-amid-growing-prohibition-fears/. Gringlas, Sam. “Senate Approves Shutdown Ending Legislation, Sending Bill to the House for a Vote.” NPR, NPR, 11 Nov. 2025, www.npr.org/2025/11/10/g-s1-97245/senate-shutdown-vote. Yarrow, Grace. “Senators Reject Paul’s Hemp Plans.” Politico, www.politico.com/live-updates/2025/11/10/congress/senators-reject-pauls-hemp-plans-00646064. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025. “Speaker Johnson Won’t Guarantee Vote in House on ACA Subsidies.” ABC7 Los Angeles, 12 Nov. 2025, www.abc7.com/live-updates/government-shutdown-updates-house-speaker-mike-johnson-commits-vote-senate-funding-deal/18139514/entry/18140103/. Usigan, Ysolt. “THC Ban Hidden in Government Spending Bill Could Shut down Delta-8 Market, so Stock up Now.” VICE, 12 Nov. 2025, www.vice.com/en/article/federal-thc-ban-on-hemp-products/. Lalljee, Jason. “The Bill to Reopen the Government Would Shut down These THC Products.” AXIOS, www.axios.com/2025/11/12/government-shutdown-bill-thc-hemp-products. Accessed 13 Nov. 2025. Tsirkin, Julie, and Frank Thorp V. “The Government Shutdown May Last Longer Because of a Fight over Hemp.” NBCNews.Com, NBCUniversal News Group, 10 Nov. 2025, www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/government-shutdown-may-last-longer-fight-hemp-rcna243075. Faguy, Ana. “Trump Signs Spending Bill to End Longest Shutdown in US History.” BBC Ne

Celebrating 20 Years of Medicare AEPs & Growth: Looking Back at 2005
Jump in the time machine with us as we travel back circa 2005 for the first Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, the debut of Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, two new Med Supp plans, and more! Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet 4 Reasons Why Ritter Insurance Marketing Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency 5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe 10 Tips to Submitting an Error-Free Medicare Enrollment Application 2026 Medicare Part D Bid Info Likely Means Higher Premiums & Plan Disruption — Here's Why A Review of Integrity's Top Medicare Quoting Tools How Insurance Agents Can Use AI Tools How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly IntegrityCONNECT & PlanEnroll FAQs Register with RitterIM.com Risk Adjustment & Finding Value Beyond Coding Changes ft. Dr. Shannon Decker The Future of Medicare Part D: The Push Toward MAPD The Ultimate Agent Resource List Pt. 3: Staying Organized References: “2005 CMS Statistics.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/research-statistics-data-and-systems/statistics-trends-and-reports/medicaremedicaidstatsupp/downloads/2005_cms_statisticspdf. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “2025 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 8 Nov. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-medicare-parts-b-premiums-and-deductibles. McManus, Melanie Radzicki. “A Short History of How Netflix Won World Domination in Streaming.” Entertainment.Howstuffworks.Com, HowStuffWorks, 21 Dec. 2018, entertainment.howstuffworks.com/short-history-netflix-world-domination-streaming.htm. “Beneficiaries with Special Needs Can Get Help from Medicare Managed Care Plans.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/beneficiaries-special-needs-can-get-help-medicare-managed-care-plans. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. Laschober, Mary. “Estimating Medicare Advantage Lock-In Provisions Impact on Vulnerable Medicare Beneficiaries.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/05springpg63pdf. “IPod Shuffle (1st Generation).” Apple.Fandom.Com, Apple Wiki, apple.fandom.com/wiki/IPod_shuffle_(1st_generation). Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/k-l-out-of-pocket-limits-announcements. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Programs to Remain Stable as CMS Implements Improvements to the Programs in 2025.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 27 Sept. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/medicare-advantage-and-medicare-prescription-drug-programs-remain-stable-cms-implements-improvements. Freed, Meredith, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/. Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fugleston Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Premiums and Benefits.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-premiums-and-benefits/. “Medicare Part B Immunosuppressive Drug Benefit.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/partbid-provider. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Demonstration to Transition Enrollment of Low Income Subsidy Beneficiaries .” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 8 June 2006, www.cms.gov/Medicare/Prescription-Drug-Coverage/PrescriptionDrugCovContra/Downloads/MemoLTCContracting_060806.pdf. “Medicare Part B Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2006/10/27/E6-17690/medicare-part-b-income-related-monthly-adjustment-amount. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. Cubanski, Juliette, and Anthony Damico. “Medicare Part D in 2025: A First Look at Prescription Drug Plan Availability, Premiums, and Cost Sharing.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-part-d-in-2025-a-first-look-at-prescription-drug-plan-availability-premiums-and-cost-sharing/. “Medicare Program Description and Legislative History.” Ssa.Gov, Social Security Administration, www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/supplement/2006/medicare.html. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Program; Establishment of the Medicare Advantage Program.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2005/01/28/05-1322/medicare-program-establishment-of-the-medicare-advantage-program. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “Part D / Prescription Drug Benefits.” Medicareadvocacy.Org, Center for Medicare Advocacy, 30 May 2025, medicareadvocacy.org/medicare-info/medicare-part-d/

4 Tips for Making a Better Insurance Sales Pitch
Want to improve your selling skills? Learn how to make a better insurance sales pitch! We outline four game-changing sales presentation tips for insurance agents. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 10 Tips to Submitting an Error-Free Medicare Enrollment Application 16 Ways to Generate Medicare Leads (That You Probably Haven’t Tried Yet!) Friday Five Archive – Agent Survival Guide Podcast How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly How to Stay Compliant During All Medicare Sales What Agents Forget to Do When Preparing for Appointments Ritter Insurance Marketing Blog References: Stemler, Sam. “9 Things Customers Want in 2025, According to Research.” Webascender.Com, Web Ascender, 10 Dec. 2024, www.webascender.com/blog/9-things-customers-want-in-2025-according-to-research-2/. Goman, Carol Kinsey. “10 Powerful Body Language Tips.” Amanet.Org, American Management Association, www.amanet.org/articles/10-powerful-body-language-tips/. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. “Active Listening Techniques: Best Practices for Leaders.” Ccl.Org, Center for Creative Leadership, 14 Oct. 2025, www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/coaching-others-use-active-listening-skills/. Tanner, Jeff, and Mary Anne Raymond. “Chapter 3 Consumer Behavior: How People Make Buying Decisions.” Https://2012books.Lardbucket.Org/Books/Marketing-Principles-v1.0/S06-Consumer-Behavior-How-People-m.Html, Flatworld. Bronten, George. “How to Sabotage Your Sales with Bad Assumptions.” Membrain.Com, Membrain, www.membrain.com/blog/how-to-sabotage-your-sales-with-bad-assumptions. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025. “Why Your Pace of Speech Matters in Public Speaking.” Teleprompter.Com, Teleprompter, www.teleprompter.com/blog/why-your-pace-of-speech-matters. Accessed 23 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.

5 Ways to Survive Enrollment Season 2026
Feeling frustrated this enrollment season? This episode is for you! We’ve got some ideas to help you take a break, take care, and make it through AEP and OEP. Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Turn Self-Care Into a Game with the Finch App: “Finch: Self-Care Pet - Apps on Google Play.” Google, www.play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.finch.finch. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. “Finch: Self-Care Pet App.” App Store, 7 Dec. 2024, www.apps.apple.com/us/app/finch-self-care-pet/id1528595748. “Your New Self-Care Best Friend.” Finch, www.finchcare.com/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. ‘Tis the Season for Holiday Flavors at Dunkin’ & Starbucks: “Celebrate the season: Starbucks Holiday Menu Returns Nov. 6 with Festive Drinks, Cups and Treats.” About Starbucks, www.about.starbucks.com/stories/2025/celebrate-the-season-starbucks-holiday-menu-returns-nov-6-with-festive-drinks-cups-and-treats/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. “Dunkin’® Unwraps the Holidays with New Cookie Butter Cloud Latte, Berry Sangria Refresher and Bacon Jam Creations.” Dunkin’, 5 Nov. 2025, www.news.dunkindonuts.com/news/holiday-menu-2025. “Dutch Bros® Cranks up the Cheer with 2025 Holiday Menu.” Dutch Bros® Cranks Up the Cheer with 2025 Holiday Menu | Dutch Bros, www.dutchbros.com/news-events/holiday-2025-drink-menu/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. “Starbucks Holiday Menu Returns Nov. 6.” About Starbucks, www.about.starbucks.com/stories/2025/starbucks-holiday-menu-returns-nov-6/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. “Starbucks Unveils Joyful Holiday Beverages: Starbucks Stories Asia.” About Starbucks, www.stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2025/starbucks-unveils-joyful-holiday-beverages/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. Dictation Goes Modern with Sandbar’s Stream Ring: Evans, Courtney. “Ex-Meta Founders Launch Smart Ring for Music & Notes.” CEO Today, 5 Nov. 2025, www.ceotodaymagazine.com/2025/11/ex-meta-smart-ring-music-voice-notes/. Werth, Timothy Beck. “Former Meta Employees Launch Sandbar, a New Smart Ring Brand.” Mashable, Mashable, 5 Nov. 2025, www.mashable.com/article/meta-employees-launch-smart-ring-sandbar. Mehta, Ivan. “Former Meta Employees Launch Stream, a Smart Ring That Takes Voice Notes and Controls Music.” TechCrunch, 5 Nov. 2025, www.techcrunch.com/2025/11/05/former-meta-employees-launch-stream-a-smart-ring-that-takes-voice-notes-and-controls-music/. “Stream Ring: A Voice-First Ring for Capturing Thoughts and Building Ideas.” Sandbar, www.sandbar.com/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. Chokkattu, Julian. “Whisper into This AI-Powered Smart Ring to Organize Your Thoughts.” Wired, Conde Nast, 5 Nov. 2025, www.wired.com/story/sandbar-stream-smart-ring/. Google Maps Adds Landmarks & More AI Capabilities: Mehta, Ivan. “Google Maps Bakes in Gemini to Improve Navigation and Hands-Free Use.” TechCrunch, 5 Nov. 2025, www.techcrunch.com/2025/11/05/google-maps-bakes-in-gemini-to-improve-navigation-and-hands-free-use/. Moore, Amanda Leicht. “Google Maps Navigation Gets a Powerful Boost with Gemini.” Google, Google, 5 Nov. 2025, www.blog.google/products/maps/gemini-navigation-features-landmark-lens/. “Google Maps Is Getting More Hands-Free for When You’re Driving.” CNET, www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/google-maps-is-getting-more-hands-free-for-when-youre-driving/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. Field Notes on the Longest Government Shutdown Ever: Solendar, Andrew, and Kate Santaliz. “A Group of House Democrats and Republicans Is Floating a Plan to End the Shutdown.” AXIOS, www.axios.com/2025/11/03/shutdown-aca-tax-credits-democrats-republicans. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. “Bacon, Suozzi, Hurd, Gottheimer Release Bipartisan Principles to Temporarily Extend and Reform Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits.” U.S. Congressman Don Bacon, 3 Nov. 2025, www.bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2805. Gringlas, Sam. “How an Enduring Debate over Healthcare Sparked a Now Record-Long Shutdown.” NPR, 5 Nov. 2025, www.npr.org/2025/11/05/nx-s1-5596472/government-shutdown-record-health-care-subsidies. Beavins, Emma, et al. “How the Shutdown Impacts Healthcare: Legislators Float Bipartisan Plan to Extend, Reform Aca Tax Credits.” Fierce Healthcare, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/shutdown-tracker-cms-issues-billing-guidance-hhs-furloughs-32000-employees. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025. Recently Published Episodes: 5 Real-Life Medicare Sales Scenarios & How to Handle Them Content Library: Cooking for Beginners ft. Jeff Snyder How Insurance Agents Can Use AI Tools How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly Stress Relief Tips to Get You Through AEP 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://ww

Medicare Prior Authorization Changes for Beneficiaries
CMS plans to simplify prior authorization for Medicare beneficiaries beginning in 2026. Listen to learn more about changes coming to Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Reasons Why Ritter Insurance Marketing Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency 5 Medicare Myths Your Clients May Believe 16 Ways to Generate Medicare Leads (That You Probably Haven’t Tried Yet!) Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly References: “HHS Secretary Kennedy, CMS Administrator Oz Secure Industry Pledge to Fix Broken Prior Authorization System.” HHS.Gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 23 June 2025, www.hhs.gov/press-room/kennedy-oz-cms-secure-healthcare-industry-pledge-to-fix-prior-authorization-system.html. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. “Health Plans Are Making Voluntary Commitments to Support Patients And Providers” AHIP.Org, www.ahip.org/health-plans-are-making-voluntary-commitments-to-support-patients-and-providers. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. “Health Plans Take Action to Simplify Prior Authorization - AHIP.” AHIP.Org, www.ahip.org/news/press-releases/health-plans-take-action-to-simplify-prior-authorization. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. Ochieng, Nancy, et al. “Medicare Advantage in 2025: Premiums, out-of-Pocket Limits, Supplemental Benefits, and Prior Authorization.” KFF, 9 Aug. 2025, www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-premiums-out-of-pocket-limits-supplemental-benefits-and-prior-authorization/. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Program; Implementation of Prior Authorization for Select Services for the Wasteful and Inappropriate Services Reduction (WISeR) Model.” FederalRegister.Org, www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2025-12195/medicare-program-implementation-of-prior-authorization-for-select-services-for-the-wasteful-and. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. “Prior Authorization and Pre-Claim Review Initiatives.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/data-research/monitoring-programs/medicare-fee-service-compliance-programs/prior-authorization-and-pre-claim-review-initiatives. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025. LeValley, Donna. “Prior Authorization Coming to Traditional Medicare Starting in 2026.” Kiplinger.Com, Kiplinger, 7 July 2025, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/medicare/prior-authorization-coming-to-traditional-medicare. Accessed 19 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.

5 MORE Real-Life Medicare Sales Scenarios and How to Handle Them
Every Medicare client has their own unique situation and needs. Learn how to best assist them with 5 more insurance sales scenarios! Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 3 Essential Steps New Insurance Agents Need to Take 4 Ancillary Cross-Sales to Show Clients You Care 4 Out-Of-the-Box Long-Term Care Insurance Solutions 5 Must-Haves for Every Agent This AEP 5 Real-Life Medicare Sales Scenarios & How to Handle Them Agent Survival Guide Podcast Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance How to Prepare for AEP like a Pro How VA Benefits Work with Medicare Life Insurance for Each of Life’s Stages Meet Your Ritter Sales Team Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Sales Event Surviving AEP Resources The Survivor’s AEP Checklist The Complete Guide on How to Sell Final Expense Insurance FREE eBook DOWNLOAD Your Clients May Not Be Automatically Enrolled in Medicare References: “Agent of Record.” Insuranceopedia, 14 Jan. 2025, https://www.insuranceopedia.com/definition/674/agent-of-record. “Avoid Late Enrollment Penalties.” Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/medicare-costs/avoid-penalties. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025. “Cobra and Medicare Coordination.” Medicare Interactive, 31 Mar. 2025, https://www.medicareinteractive.org/understanding-medicare/coordinating-medicare-with-other-insurance/cobra-and-medicare/cobra-and-medicare-coordination. “How Medicare Works with Other Insurance.” Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/coordination. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025. “Job-Based Insurance When You Are Disabled.” Medicare Interactive, 23 Mar. 2025, https://www.medicareinteractive.org/understanding-medicare/coordinating-medicare-with-other-insurance/job-based-insurance-and-medicare/job-based-insurance-when-you-are-disabled. “Medicare Information.” SSA, https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/medicare.htm. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025. “Tricare for Life (Tfl) Basics.” Medicare Interactive, 23 Mar. 2025, https://www.medicareinteractive.org/understanding-medicare/coordinating-medicare-with-other-insurance/military-retiree-insurance-and-medicare/tricare-for-life-tfl-basics. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

5 Real-Life Medicare Sales Scenarios & How to Handle Them
One of the best ways to prepare for the insurance field is with real life scenarios. In this episode we dive into 5 scenarios and how to best assist your clients. Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Tips for Making a Better Insurance Sales Pitch 10 Tips to Submitting an Error-Free Medicare Enrollment Application Contact Ritter Insurance Marketing eBook: A Comprehensive Guide to Medicare Supplement Underwriting How to Save Your Clients Money on Prescription Drugs How SPAPs and Their SEPs Can Bring You New Business Reach Out to Ritter's Sales Team Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing The Beginner’s Guide to D-SNPs Stay Busy Outside of AEP With Special Enrollment Periods References: “Extra Help Basics.” Medicare Interactive, 1 May 2025, https://www.medicareinteractive.org/understanding-medicare/cost-saving-programs/the-extra-help-low-income-subsidy-lis-program/extra-help-basics. “Get Ready to Buy.” Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025. “Glossary Archive.” Medicare Interactive, https://www.medicareinteractive.org/glossary. Accessed 25 Sept. 2025. “I Am Turning 65 in a Few Months and Want to Go on Medicare. Will I Be Automatically Enrolled in Parts A and B or Do I Need to Sign Up?” KFF, 18 Sept. 2025, https://www.kff.org/faqs/medicare-open-enrollment-faqs/enrollment-information-for-people-new-to-medicare/i-am-turning-65-in-a-few-months-and-want-to-go-on-medicare-will-i-be-automatically-enrolled-in-parts-a-and-b-or-do-i-need-to-sign-up/. 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.

Stress Relief Tips to Get You Through AEP
Things can get hectic during AEP. From sales appointments, applications, and following up with clients, it’s easy to brush aside rest and self-care, so consider this episode as a reminder! Read the text version Save Time, Sell More - IntegrityCONNECT Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: A Review of Integrity’s Top Medicare Quoting Tools Agent Survival Kits Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments IntegrityCONNECT - Login PlanEnroll – Take Your Business to the Next Level Ritter’s Round Table Your Guide to Forming an Insurance Agent Network Fun Local Resources near Harrisburg PA: Lancatster Cat Cafe Meditation to Calm the Mind (Free) Round-A-Bout-Bagels Carlisle Cat Cafe Volunteer with The Harrisburg Humane Society (Free) Wildwood Park (Free) – Harrisburg PA Yoga at Harrisburg YMCA References: “3 Tips to Manage Stress.” Www.Heart.Org, American Heart Association, https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/3-tips-to-manage-stress. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025. “Your Frontline Source for Tech News.” Techreport, 6 Oct. 2025, https://techreport.com/. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Stress Relievers: Tips to Tame Stress.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 3 Aug. 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relievers/art-20047257. Matijczak, Angela, et al. “The Influence of Interactions With Pet Dogs on Psychological Distress.” American Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2023-97081-001.html. Accessed 8 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.