Agent Survival Guide Podcast

Is 2026 really the new 2016? Join Sarah as she talks about this internet trend, takes the time machine back to 2016 to compare data, and explains how agents can get in on the fun while it lasts!   Get Connected:

Get the breakdown of each Affordable Care Act metal tier plan right here!   Read the text version  

Learn more about the Medicare prescription payment plan program. Get the information you need now so you can answer questions from your clients.  

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:

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    

Expand your Affordable Care Act client base with these six lead generation strategies!   Read the text version  

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:

Discover all the reasons why we think Gen Z is a great match for the insurance industry!    Read the text version  

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  

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.   

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.   

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  

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  

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!  

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/  

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.  

Use these questions to help your client find the right Affordable Care Act coverage! Read the text version

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:

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  

In this episode we're highlighting some important things to think about while AEP is still fresh in your mind. Read the text version  

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  

Dr. 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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

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  

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  

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  

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:

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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  

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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  

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.

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  

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  

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  

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  

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:

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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  

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:

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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/. “Pop Culture in Review for the Year 2005.” Mrpopculture.Com, Mr. Pop Culture , 29 Nov. 2023, mrpopculture.com/pop-culture-in-review-for-the-year-2005/. "The Medicare Advantage program: Availability, benefits, and special needs plans - Chapter 9." Medpac.Gov, Medpac.gov, www.medpac.gov/wp-content/uploads/import_data/scrape_files/docs/default-source/reports/Jun06_Ch09.pdf. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. Gold, Marsha. “The Landscape of Private Firms Offering Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage in 2006.” Modern.Kff.Org, The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, www.kff.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/7474.pdf. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “The next Generation of Medicare Beneficiaries - Chapter 2.” Medpac.Gov, Medpac.gov, www.medpac.gov/wp-content/uploads/import_data/scrape_files/docs/default-source/reports/chapter-2-the-next-generation-of-medicare-beneficiaries-june-2015-report-.pdf. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. Crowder, Courtney. “Throwback: Pop Culture Trends of 2005.” Usatoday.Com, USA Today, 30 July 2015, www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/2015/07/30/pop-culture-trends/30739417/. “Update to Medicare Deductible, Coinsurance and Premium Rates for 2006.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/downloads/R31GI.pdf. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. “Variation and Trends in Medigap Premiums.” Aspe.Hhs.Gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/migrated_legacy_files/43721/index.pdf. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025. Hosch, William L. “YouTube.” Britannica.Com, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 19 Oct. 2025, www.britannica.com/topic/YouTube.   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.

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  

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:

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  

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

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 ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com 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.

Have you heard? The definition of Short-Term Limited Duration Insurance has changed. We unpack what it means for insurance agents!   Read the text version