7 Figure Annuity Sales

In this episode, we unpack why becoming an expert in the annuity industry isn't the finish line—it's the starting point. Having a solid grasp of products, strategies, and regulations is the bare minimum every agent should strive for. But what separates the average from the elite is what you do beyond that—going the extra mile for your clients, working closely with carriers, and constantly leveling up your knowledge and effort. If you want to be a top producer, it starts with expertise, but it takes much more to truly stand out.

In this episode, we talk about the deeper mission behind Retirement Realized—building high-character individuals first, because true success in this industry starts with who you are, not just what you achieve. The goal isn't just to create top producers, but people who lead with integrity, generosity, and a genuine desire to serve others. That kind of character shows up before the big numbers ever do, and it's exactly what sets the foundation for lasting success in the annuity business and beyond.

This episode covers two often overlooked but critical areas for annuity agents: tracking your numbers and understanding Roth conversions. We explore why consistently monitoring your activity and performance metrics can lead to smarter decisions and better results. Then we break down the value of Roth conversions, how they fit into retirement planning, and why they can be a powerful tool in client conversations. Packed with practical insights, this episode is all about tightening your process and adding more value to every appointment.

In this episode, we unpack why the carrier behind the product matters just as much as the product itself during the fact-finding process. While several annuity products might check all the boxes for a client's needs, the carrier you choose can have a major impact on the client experience—from service and support to long-term stability and trust. Chad shares why digging deeper into carrier differences is a crucial part of doing what's truly in the client's best interest, and how being intentional with this step can set you apart as a top-tier agent.

In this episode, we dive into the mindset of working for a lasting legacy instead of chasing instant gratification. Chad shares his perspective on why building something that outlives you—whether it's for your family, your clients, or the impact you leave behind—should be the true motivation behind your work. It's about making decisions today that set up long-term success, rather than focusing only on short-term rewards. Hear how shifting your mindset toward legacy can bring deeper purpose, fulfillment, and lasting impact to everything you do.

In this episode, Chad shares why he's still expecting a record-breaking year in annuity production—even with market uncertainty on the horizon. He unpacks the mindset, strategies, and opportunities that make strong sales possible regardless of market conditions. From staying proactive with clients to focusing on value-driven conversations, Chad explains how agents can thrive even when the broader financial outlook looks shaky.

In this episode, Chad shares real-time insights from his day-to-day experience as an active annuity agent in the field. From recent calls, appointments, and sales conversations, he breaks down what he's seeing in today's market—what's working, what clients are responding to, and where agents might be missing the mark. It's a candid look into the patterns, challenges, and opportunities he's observed over the past few weeks, giving you a pulse on what it really takes to succeed right now in the annuity space.

Explore the challenging yet rewarding journey to top-tier success in the annuity business in this episode, where we delve into the mindset needed to achieve exceptional results. Writing millions in annuity premiums annually is not just difficult; it's a rare accomplishment that requires dedication, resilience, and a strategic approach. We discuss the importance of renewing your mindset to embrace the hard work and persistence necessary to reach these heights. Learn why every bit of effort is worthwhile, given the significant earning potential each sale in this industry can bring. This episode is essential listening for any agent aiming to understand the true nature of success in the competitive world of annuities and how to mentally prepare for the journey ahead.

Dive into the importance of truly understanding your insurance products in this episode, where we emphasize the necessity for agents to have a complete and accurate grasp of the products they offer. Being well-informed is crucial not only for building trust with your clients but also for ensuring that you can confidently answer questions and manage expectations. We discuss the potential pitfalls of misinformation, including the embarrassment and damage to credibility that can occur when incorrect information is given to clients. Learn strategies for keeping your knowledge up-to-date and techniques for verifying the details of each product you handle. This episode is a must for any agent who aims to excel in the insurance field by being thoroughly informed and reliable.

Explore the critical role of your Field Marketing Organization (FMO) in this episode, where we question whether your FMO is truly bringing value beyond just a compensation bump. We delve into why it's essential for agents to partner with an FMO that not only enhances their potential to write more business but also contributes to their overall growth and development as an agent. Discover the key aspects that define a valuable FMO, such as training opportunities, marketing support, and access to a wider range of products. Learn why choosing the right FMO could mean the difference between mediocre success and outstanding performance in the long run. Join us as we unpack what to look for in an FMO to ensure they are genuinely invested in improving your capabilities and helping you increase your earnings.

Join us as we dive into how laziness can be the biggest barrier to achieving success, not just for agents but also for their clients' financial dreams. In the competitive annuity business, going the extra mile makes all the difference. This episode explores the crucial habits that set successful agents apart: the relentless pursuit of new clients, the determination to push business through by consistently communicating with insurance companies, and a steadfast commitment to doing whatever it takes to serve clients' best interests. Contrast this with the pitfalls of laziness—how doing just the bare minimum can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately, fail to protect and grow your clients' retirement dreams. Discover actionable strategies to avoid complacency and ensure you're always operating at your best.

Join us as we delve into the recent updates made to the Fact Finder, a crucial tool for annuity agents. Learn how we've revamped this essential one-sheet to better capture all the necessary information during the first phone call with a client. This episode covers the enhancements designed to help agents fully understand their clients' situations and needs, addressing the modern-day challenges of the annuity business. Discover the strategic improvements that make the Fact Finder more effective and efficient, equipping agents to make informed decisions and provide top-notch service in today's dynamic market.

Join us for an engaging update from Chad as he shares insights from his recent move to Colorado, recaps the adventures from his trips over the past year, and reflects on the importance of family. He'll also dive into his strategies for tackling the annuity business as we head into 2025. This episode offers a personal look at how balancing life and work can lead to greater success and satisfaction in the professional realm. Listen in to get inspired by Chad's journey and gain tips on how you can approach your own business challenges in the coming year.

  Explore effective talking points for engaging clients who are enthusiastic about the stock market. Start by addressing the bullish mentality that underlies their willingness to stay invested despite potential risks, discussing the concepts of paper loss versus paper gain, and emphasizing that gains are not truly realized until they are captured. Dive into their comfort with market fluctuations, questioning if they would still find satisfaction if they hedged against potential downsides. Prompt them to consider the unpredictability of tomorrow's market and their financial threshold for potential losses. By calculating potential losses in dollar terms, clients can gain a clearer perspective on the risks they are willing to take, akin to strategies used in gambling. These discussions can help clients reflect on their investment strategies and consider the benefits of diversifying with annuities for more stable returns.

In this episode, Caleb discusses some of the common traits, practices, and tendencies of elite annuity producers. Learn from these commonalities and attempt to implement them into your own business while mixing them with your own strengths. When combined you too can become an elite producer.

In this episode, we discuss three key pitfalls to avoid in annuity sales. First, always verify your lead information; assuming it's correct without checking can lead to issues down the line. Next, avoid presenting too many product options to clients, as this can overwhelm them and hinder decision-making. Lastly, we examine a specific strategy used by Chad—focusing on tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, highlighting the importance of customization in successful sales. Tune in to learn how avoiding these common errors can improve your sales process.

Explore essential strategies for maximizing your end-of-year sales in this episode focused on Q4 best practices. We discuss the importance of maintaining momentum and not assuming prospects want to wait until after the holidays to make financial decisions. Learn how to approach leads and appointments during the fourth quarter differently, ensuring you stand out from other agents and close the year strong. This episode offers valuable insights into keeping your sales process active and effective during the busy holiday season.

Dive into effective strategies for moving pending annuity sales to completion in this insightful episode. Learn how to accelerate the approval process and ensure your deals close more efficiently. We cover tips for improving communication with underwriters, streamlining paperwork, and managing client expectations to minimize delays. Whether you're dealing with complex cases or routine sales, get practical advice to help you push your pending business through to successful completion.

Enhance your annuity sales approach in our latest episode '3 Strategies To Improve Your Appointment Process.' Discover the impact of thorough fact-finding, the importance of a polished presentation process, and the value of deep product and carrier knowledge. These key strategies are designed to streamline your appointments and boost your sales effectiveness.

Discover how Chad achieved his best year in annuity sales ever, despite a decrease in lead flow, in this insightful episode. We delve into the strategies and tactics that allowed him to maximize production with fewer leads. Learn how focusing on high-quality engagements, refining sales techniques, and leveraging existing client relationships can lead to substantial growth. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for any agent looking to increase their production effectively, even when facing challenges like reduced lead flow.

Explore strategies for handling falling rates when selling annuities in this episode. We dive into how to navigate the challenges of a declining interest rate environment while maintaining client trust and sales momentum. Discover techniques for emphasizing the stability and security that annuities can offer, even when rates are dropping. Learn how to adjust your sales pitch to highlight the benefits of annuities that go beyond rate considerations, such as guaranteed income and protection against market volatility. This episode is essential for any agent looking to thrive in fluctuating financial landscapes.

In this week's episode we revisit one our of best ever episodes! Uncover the secrets to building a repeatable and scalable annuity sales process in this podcast. Learn how Chad Owen structures and builds his own personal process and how you can apply it to your self.

Dive into "The Psychology of Choice" in this episode where we examine why many agents present a variety of products, allowing clients to choose what seems best for them. This strategy can empower clients and reduce liability for the agent, but it might also diminish the client's perception of the agent's expertise and the value they add. We explore how agents can offer choice without these downsides, emphasizing the importance of thorough fact-finding. Learn how asking the right questions, much like a skilled car salesperson, can guide clients to make informed decisions while still feeling in control of their financial future.

Explore the significant role of index crediting in income-focused annuity cases in this episode. We delve into why, while income remains the primary concern, the choice of index crediting strategies can be crucial. Learn how these decisions impact the account value, which is essential not just for maintaining the principal but also for benefits tied to the account value, like long-term care enhancements and death benefits. We'll also discuss how these factors influence client discussions during annual reviews, referrals, and overall satisfaction. Join us as we break down how selecting the right indices involves a strategic blend of the index characteristics, crediting methods, and current rates.

Dive into the crucial link between presence and productivity as we explore why being fully engaged is essential for achieving your goals. We discuss the importance of ensuring you're focused on the right tasks, as presence alone isn't enough if you're not on the right path. Whether in professional settings or personal relationships, discover how making presence a priority can transform your effectiveness and help you maximize your time.

In this episode, we take a closer look at Chad's transition from exclusively face-to-face appointments to incorporating 50% virtual interactions. Discover why he chose to make this shift, the hurdles he faced along the way, and the most rewarding outcomes from adopting a hybrid approach. Chad also shares insights on any emerging trends he's noticed through this change. Join us for an in-depth exploration of adapting to the evolving dynamics of client meetings in the annuity sales industry.

In this episode, we discuss "3 Ways to Invest in Your Annuity Business," offering insights into how strategic investments can enhance your operations and secure your future in the industry. We'll cover different areas where focusing your resources can lead to substantial growth and stability. Join us to uncover key strategies that could transform your business approach and set you up for long-term success.

This week we revisit an old episode that is one of our best as a reminder of principles that still apply today. The final episode of a 3 week series. So far we've covered the current market landscape and how annuities impact that market. In this episode, we'll cover the common objections retirees have with annuities and how to overcome them.

Explore the unique challenges and opportunities of selling annuities during the summer months in this episode. We look closely at Chad's performance data, revealing that summer often yields some of the lowest sales quarters, with a notable absence of peak months since 2010. What's behind this trend? We dive into factors like vacations, which commonly affect both agents and clients, and the broader psychological shift into 'vacation mode' that seems to occur during these warmer months. This episode offers strategies to overcome these challenges, ensuring your sales don't cool off when the weather heats up. Join us to learn how to maintain momentum in your annuity sales throughout the summer.

Delve into the world of commissions in the annuity space with our focused discussion on 'All Things Commission.' This episode unpacks the dynamics of commission structures influenced by competitive products, like a 7-year surrender period offering lower compensation. We'll explore the differences between street commission and other types, and how factors like surrender periods and client age affect commission percentages. We also break down the three main types of commission schedules—upfront, upfront plus trail, and all trail—examining what's considered fair and under what circumstances commission bumps should be warranted. Join us to gain insights on how commissions are structured and what that means for you in your practice.

Dive into the uncertainties of retirement planning in this episode, where we address crucial questions every retiree faces. We explore topics like lifespan predictions, market volatility, long-term care plans, longevity insurance, market protection strategies, and ensuring financial security for surviving spouses. This discussion is designed to help you guide clients through the complexities of preparing for the unknowns of retirement, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive planning and the protective role of annuities. Learn how to help clients feel secure in their future, regardless of what life throws their way.

Explore strategies for selling annuities by focusing on worst-case scenarios in this insightful episode. We discuss how addressing potential negative outcomes can reassure clients and solidify their decision-making. Learn to present annuities as a safeguard against financial uncertainty, highlighting features like guaranteed income and downside protection. This approach helps clients appreciate the value of annuities in securing their financial future, even in the most challenging times. Gain tips on how to tactfully navigate these conversations to build trust and confidence with your clients.

Explore the powerful link between personal well-being and professional success in this episode focused on the mantra 'Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Soul = Healthy Business.' We delve into how maintaining your physical health, nurturing mental wellness, and fostering spiritual balance can significantly boost your effectiveness as an annuity agent. Get practical tips for incorporating health and wellness into your daily routine and see firsthand how a holistic approach to personal care can enhance your business productivity and success.

Dive into the details of interest crediting index strategies in this episode, where we unpack the various methods used in fixed and indexed annuities. Learn about the impact each strategy has on annuity growth, explore the benefits and factors to consider with different indices, and understand how they fit into the current market conditions. This session is crucial for anyone aiming to enhance their understanding of annuity products and improve their investment decisions.

Explore the upcoming DOL Rule effective September 23, 2024, and its implications for financial advisors. Understand the expanded definition of a fiduciary, the responsibilities for providing honest, best-interest advice, and the exemptions for insurance intermediaries like IMOs, FMOs, and BGAs. We'll guide you on preparing for the new standards—staying informed, ensuring compliance, and continually enhancing your knowledge to best serve your clients.

Chad's taking on virtual appointments! Discover how he's balancing virtual and face-to-face meetings, and what it means for his business. We look at the numbers: a slightly lower sit rate and smaller average case size, but a higher application rate. Chad weighs in on the benefits and challenges he's faced, changes to his sales process, and shares essential tips for making virtual appointments work.

Let's talk about the current state of the annuity market in our latest episode. We discuss how rates are holding steady and take a look at some exciting updates from Equitrust, Lincoln Financial, and Global Atlantic. You'll also hear from Chad about his recent experiences with clients and from Caleb on what's trending with agents right now, including the quest for the highest rates and a noticeable increase in income strategies. Tune in to stay updated on the latest shifts in the annuity world.

This week we re-visit an old episode that is one of our best... Replacing An Annuity. This is one of the most case by case areas of annuity sales. Certain situations may incline you to push for a replacement on the line, and still others that could easily be replaced may not be the best thing for the client. In this episode, we'll cover all things related to the good and bad of replacing annuities.

Tune into 'Index Strategies, Crediting, and Allocation' for a comprehensive look at the nuts and bolts of index-based annuities. We'll guide you through choosing the right index strategies, understanding crediting methods, and making smart allocation decisions. This episode is jam-packed with actionable insights to help you maximize the potential of your annuity products and tailor your approach to fit each client's unique financial landscape. Perfect for advisors looking to deepen their knowledge and refine their strategies in the ever-evolving world of annuities.

"Dive into 'Best Practices for Selecting Products and Carriers' for insider tips on choosing the right annuity products and insurance carriers. We'll discuss what to look for in terms of financial stability, customer service, product features, and overall reputation. Plus, we'll cover how to match these factors with your clients' needs for a winning combination. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that benefit both you and your clients."

Listen in on 'Annuities for Income vs. Accumulation' where we break down the key differences and benefits of using annuities for steady income versus long-term growth. We'll explore how to decide which approach fits your financial goals, whether you're looking to secure a reliable income stream in retirement or to build and grow your savings over time. This episode is perfect for anyone trying to understand the strategic uses of annuities and how to make them work best for their financial future.

Check out our episode '3 Talking Points With Retirees' where we dive into crucial conversations about retirement planning. We cover the essentials: Pensions, Social Security, and Defined Contribution Plans, and why they matter more than ever. We also introduce the two questions nobody can answer but every retiree should consider. Lastly, we unpack the Sequence of Returns Risk and its impact on retirement savings. This episode is packed with insights for those looking to navigate retirement discussions with confidence.

Tune into 'Communicating The Risks and Benefits of Annuities' for a deep dive into the ins and outs of Fixed and Indexed Annuities. We're tackling the common concerns like liquidity, fees, and the fear of low returns, while highlighting the major wins like downside protection, upside potential, and guaranteed income. Plus, we get into how understanding the purpose of the money is key to balancing these risks and benefits. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to get clear on annuities and how to communicate their value effectively.

Tune in to 'The Three Pillars Of Annuity Sales Success' where we uncover the core components that drive success in annuity sales. We'll explore effective lead generation, refine your sales process with expert training, and delve into choosing the best carrier and product solutions. This episode is your guide to elevating your sales approach and achieving greater success in the annuity market.

Dive into 'Selling Annuities Virtually' for all you need to know about online annuity sales. We'll touch on setting up your digital space, nailing virtual presentations, and keeping up with clients online. Perfect for anyone looking to boost their virtual sales skills.

Tune into 'Index Allocation in 2024' for a straightforward take on navigating index choices for your annuities. We'll cover why most indices tend to track closely together and the risks of new index strategies. Learn when the S&P 500 might be your best bet and how economic cycles influence the top-performing asset classes. It's all about making smarter allocation decisions, packed into one insightful episode.

Join us for a deep dive into 'Legacy Planning With Annuities' on our latest episode. We start with a fundamental question: what's the purpose of your money, planning for life or planning for legacy? We explore strategies like passing wealth through life insurance while living off annuities, and the savvy move of using annuity income to cover life insurance premiums. For those not insurable, we discuss the benefits of guaranteed death benefit rollup annuities. Tune in for practical advice on crafting a legacy plan that aligns with your financial goals and family needs.

Dive into our episode on 'Selling Annuities in a Rate Drop Environment' where we explore effective strategies for dealing with lower interest rates. We discuss how to build urgency without resorting to fear tactics and how to respond when clients want to wait for rates to rise. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you maintain robust sales in challenging times.

Jump into our latest episode where we break down the '5 Main Product Selection Criteria' for annuity products. We'll look at how to gauge an insurer's financial stability, sift through to find the best benefits, and check out their customer service game. Plus, we'll dive into the nitty-gritty of payout or growth potential and the honesty behind renewal rates. It's all about making smart, client-friendly choices in the annuity market. Tune in for some straight talk on picking the best products out there.

Dive into the world of income riders and learn the secrets of asking the right questions to boost your annuity sales. This episode is packed with tips on effectively presenting income riders, engaging clients, and building trust through strategic communication. Get ready for practical insights that will sharpen your questioning skills and elevate your approach to annuity sales.

Join us for 'Annuity Industry Forecast for 2024,' where we peek into the future of annuities. After record sales in the past couple of years, we're exploring why 2024 might see a slight dip, considering factors like the S&P 500's rise, changing annuity rates, and trends in treasury bonds. We'll also look at how big events like the US election could shake things up. Plus, get tips on how to avoid a sales slump and even boost your numbers in a changing market. It's all about staying savvy in the shifting world of annuities.