

Agent Survival Guide Podcast
Sarah J. Rueppel | Ritter Insurance Marketing
Bringing insurance agents tips and strategies for making sales, staying compliant, marketing yourself, getting leads, and more! Think of the Agent Survival Guide as your go-to resource for insight, information, and the inspiration needed to take the next step on your journey. Whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned pro, the ASG Podcast has got you covered.
Empowering insurance agents selling Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, ACA, Long and Short-Term Care, Life, Annuities, and Final Expense.
Empowering insurance agents selling Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, ACA, Long and Short-Term Care, Life, Annuities, and Final Expense.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 9, 2025 • 17min
Aetna Health Plans to Exit ACA Marketplace for CY 2026
The Friday Five for May 9, 2025:
Rite Aid Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Again
Apple WWDC 2025 Dates & Rumors
Discount Medicare Insurance Scam Alert
Rueppel Recommends Books & Streaming Picks May 2025
Aetna Health Plans to Exit ACA Marketplace for CY 2026
Rite Aid Files for 2nd Chapter 11 Bankruptcy:
Download the “Rite Aid Letter to Customers - May 5, 2025.” Restructuring.Ra.Kroll.Com, Kroll Restructuring Administration, restructuring.ra.kroll.com/RiteAid/Home-DownloadPDF?id1=MzM0MTA2Mg%3D%3D&id2=0. Accessed 6 May 2025.
Grothaus, Michael. “Rite Aid Bankruptcy: What to Know about Store Closings, Prescription Transfers, Layoffs, Gift Cards, and More.” Fastcompany.Com, Fast Company, 6 May 2025, www.fastcompany.com/91329223/rite-aid-bankruptcy-2025-stores-closing-prescription-transfers-gift-cards.
Arias, Pilar. “Rite Aid Files for Bankruptcy for Second Time in Less than 2 Years.” Foxbusiness.Com, Fox Business, 6 May 2025, www.foxbusiness.com/economy/rite-aid-files-bankruptcy-second-time-less-than-2-years.
Powel, James. “Rite Aid Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, Promises ‘smooth Transfer’ of Prescriptions.” Usatoday.Com, Gannett Satellite Information Network, 6 May 2025, www.usatoday.com/story/money/retail/2025/05/05/rite-aid-chapter-11-bankruptcy/83467189007/.
“Rite Aid Store Locater.” Riteaid.Com, Rite Aid, www.riteaid.com/locations/. Accessed 6 May 2025.
Urie, Daniel. “Rite Aid Tells Vendors It ‘Has Generally Stopped Purchasing Goods and Services.’” Pennlive.Com, PennLive, 5 May 2025, www.pennlive.com/business/2025/05/rite-aid-tells-vendors-it-has-generally-stopped-purchasing-goods-and-services.html.
Mills, Sean I. “What to Do with Your Prescriptions Now That Rite Aid Is Closing All Stores.” Romesentinel.Com, Daily Sentinel, 6 May 2025, www.romesentinel.com/news/rome-new-hartford-rite-aid-store-closings/article_98f2300b-600c-4937-b8d0-686ece8d36e9.html.
Apple WWDC 2025 Dates & Rumors:
Lovejoy, Ben. “90% of People Shouldn’t Buy the iPhone 17 Air, per Apple.” 9to5mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 6 May 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/05/06/90-of-people-shouldnt-buy-the-iphone-17-air-per-apple/.
Schroeder, Stan. “Apple Is Planning a New iPhone Launch Schedule, Report Claims.” Mashable, Mashable, 5 May 2025, mashable.com/article/apple-iphone-launch-schedule.
“iOS 7 vs iOS 6 Side-by-Side Visual Comparisons.” Osxdaily.Com, OS X Daily, osxdaily.com/2013/06/11/ios-7-vs-ios-6-visual-comparison/. Accessed 6 May 2025.
Christoffel, Ryan. “iOS 19: Three New Features Are Being Announced next Month.” 9to5mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 5 May 2025, 9to5mac.com/2025/05/05/ios-19-three-new-features-are-being-announced-next-month/.
Clover, Juli. “iOS 19: Everything We Know.” Macrumors.Com, MacRumors, 5 May 2025, www.macrumors.com/roundup/ios-19/.
Discount Medicare Insurance Scam Alert:
“Emerging Discount Medical Insurance Scams.” Ic3.Gov, Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), 30 Apr. 2025, www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250430.
Dimuro, Claudia. “FBI Alerts Public in Pa., beyond to Emerging Scam: Here’s What to Know.” Pennlive.Com, PennLive, 5 May 2025, www.pennlive.com/life/2025/05/fbi-alerts-public-in-pa-beyond-to-emerging-scam-heres-what-to-know.html.
Burman, Theo. “FBI Issues New Warning Over Health Insurance Scams.” Newsweek.Com, Newsweek, 6 May 2025, www.newsweek.com/fbi-issues-new-warning-over-health-insurance-scams-2068626.
Rueppel Recommends:
Wynn-Williams, Sarah. “Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism.” Spotify, Flatiron Books, open.spotify.com/show/279JRLPYDjvmsS81C7SOzg?si=215e5504c3ea4510. Accessed 6 May 2025.
Ridgely, Charlie. “Everything Coming to Netflix, Max, Disney+ & Other Streaming Services in May 2025.” ComicBook.Com, ComicBook, 30 Apr. 2025, comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/new-streaming-movies-tv-shows-may-2025-netflix-disney-max/.
Bet-David, Patrick. “Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy.” Spotify, Gallery Books, https://open.spotify.com/show/1mCTkhoZxUOH6iA9b8Dx2y?si=b11263c88e3a43ff. Accessed 6 May 2025.
Bet-David, Patrick. Your Next Five Moves, Gallery Books, www.yournextfivemoves.com/. Accessed 6 May 2025.
Aetna Health Plans to Exit ACA Marketplace for CY 2026:
Minemyer, Paige. “Aetna to Exit the ACA Exchanges in 2026.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 1 May 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/aetna-exit-aca-exchanges-2026.
Pifer, Rebecca. “CVS Plans to Exit ACA Individual Exchanges, Strikes Wegovy Deal with Novo Nordisk.” Healthcaredive.Com, Healthcare Dive, 1 May 2025, www.healthcaredive.com/news/cvs-aetna-exit-aca-novo-nordisk-wegovy-deal/746833/.
Japsen, Bruce. “CVS Plans To Exit Obamacare In 2026, Affecting 1 Million Aetna Members.” Forbes.Com, Forbes Magazine, 1 May 2025, www.forbes.com/sites/brucejapsen/2025/05/01/cvs-plans-to-exit-obamacare-in-2026-impacting-1-million-aetna-members/.
How Plan Crosswalks Work in the ACA Marketplace: https://lnk.to/ASG664
Resources:
5 Myths About Selling ACA Health Insurance Plans: https://lnk.to/asg660
5 Things from the CMS 2026 MA and Part D Final Rule: https://lnk.to/asgf20250502
Agent Requirements for ACA Sales: https://lnk.to/ASG662
Learn How to Sell ACA Products During the Off-Season ft. Danica Stover: https://lnk.to/asg661
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle: https://lnk.to/brindle2025
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.

May 8, 2025 • 10min
Community Engagement & ACA Marketing Suggestions for Agents
Get tips on how to get involved with your community, find potential ACA clients, and market your brand – all in this episode!
Read the text version
The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Establishing Successful Affinity Partnerships FREE eBook Download
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out in Crowd: https://lnk.to/asgf20250321
5 Things to Consider When Creating Your Personal Brand: https://lnk.to/asgf20250404
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media: https://lnk.to/asgf20250131
6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads: https://lnk.to/ASG663
ACA Consumer Authorization Form FREE PDF Download: https://ritterim.com/documents/aca-consumer-authorization-form-template.pdf
Apps for Content Creation: https://lnk.to/ASGA81
Best Video Editing Apps for Social Media: https://lnk.to/8xfGo0
Build Your Brand with Community Involvement: https://ritterim.com/blog/build-your-brand-with-community-involvement/
Free Insurance eBooks & Guides: https://ritterim.com/guides/
Meet Your Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
Register with Ritter: https://app.ritterim.com/public/registration/
Shop at Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://shopritterim.com/
The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans: https://ritterim.com/aca-ebook/
References:
“Age Distribution of Internet Users Worldwide 2024.” Statista.Com, https://www.statista.com/statistics/272365/age-distribution-of-internet-users-worldwide/. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
“Log in or Sign Up.” https://www.facebook.com/. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
“Make Your Day.” TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/en/. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
“Most Popular Social Networks Worldwide as of February 2025, by Number of Monthly Active Users.” Statista.Com, Statista, Feb. 2025, www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/.
“The Growth Engine: Superior Customer Experience In ...” McKinsey.Com, https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/industries/financial%20services/our%20insights/the%20growth%20engine%20superior%20customer%20experience%20in%20insurance/the_growth_engine_superior_customer_experience_in_insurance_may_2016.pdf. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
YouTube, YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/. Accessed 14 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
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

May 7, 2025 • 4min
Agent Apps | Location Sharing Apps
Need to keep track of everyone during a busy week or a night out? Check out these location sharing apps!
Glympse App Official Website: https://corp.glympse.com/
Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/
SnapChat: https://www.snapchat.com/
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Apps to Take with You on Your Next Road Trip: https://lnk.to/asga77
Best Apps for Sports Fans: https://lnk.to/asga78
The Power of Listening & Laughter: https://lnk.to/kDjaoK
References:
Google Maps, Google, https://www.google.com/maps/. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.
“Less Social Media. More Snapchat.” Snapchat, https://www.snapchat.com/. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.
“Share Your Real-Time Location with Others in Google Maps.” Google Maps Help, Google, https://support.google.com/maps/answer/15437054?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.
“Streamline Operations and Enhance Productivity with Real-Time Location Intelligence.” Glympse, https://corp.glympse.com/. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.
What Is Family Center? – Snapchat Support, https://help.snapchat.com/hc/en-us/articles/7121384944788-What-is-Family-Center. Accessed 17 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
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

May 5, 2025 • 12min
How Plan Crosswalks Work in the ACA Marketplace
What are plan crosswalks in the Affordable Care Act Marketplace? Find out what this means for your clients and how agents can help in the process.
Read the text version
Register with Ritter: https://app.ritterim.com/public/registration/
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Everything Agents Need to Know About Selling in Sate-Based Marketplaces: https://ritterim.com/blog/everything-agents-need-to-know-about-selling-in-state-based-marketplaces/
Everything You Need to Know About the ACA OEP: https://ritterim.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-aca-oep/
FAQs About Selling On-Exchange & Off-Exchange Under-65 Plans: https://ritterim.com/blog/faqs-about-selling-on-exchange-off-exchange-under-65-plans/
How to Help Clients Navigate ACA Marketplace Subsidies & Taxes: https://lnk.to/qzlRwV
Knight School: https://ritterim.com/knight-school/
Steps to Get Ready for OEP: Federal Exchange States & State-Based Exchanges: https://lnk.to/SyqM9T
The Ritter Blog: https://ritterim.com/blog/
Meet Your Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
Under-65 Health: https://ritterim.com/products/under-65/
What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Your Medicare & ACA Clients: https://ritterim.com/blog/what-the-inflation-reduction-act-means-for-your-medicare-aca-clients/
References:
“2025 Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Proposed Rule.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-marketplace-integrity-and-affordability-proposed-rule. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.
“ECFR :: 45 CFR 164.512 -- Uses and Disclosures for Which an Authorization or Opportunity to Agree or Object Is Not Required.” Code of Federal Regulations, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-B/part-155/subpart-D/section-155.335. Accessed 8 Apr. 2025.
“Low Cost Marketplace Health Care, Qualifying Income Levels.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs/. Accessed 8 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
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

May 3, 2025 • 16min
Operating From a People-First Mentality ft. Scott Zimmerman
Putting others first in a me-first world? Scott Zimmerman joins Sarah to chat about this mentality that we’re all familiar with, and the powerful results it can have on your insurance business.
Find Scott Zimmerman Online:
Email: scott@corpstrat.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scott.zimmerman.75491
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescottzimmerman/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-zimmerman-9463a12/
Official Website: https://www.corpstrat.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqxWt4UeW26lqlQ9Qdz3Uyw
Start Working with Ritter Insurance Marketing!
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

May 2, 2025 • 9min
5 Things from the CMS 2026 MA and Part D Final Rule
Join Sarah as she dives back into CMS regulations! This week, she highlights 5 regulations from the 2026 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
5 Things About the 2026 CMS MA and Part D Rate Announcement: https://lnk.to/asgf20250411
CMS 2025 Marketplace Integrity & Affordability Proposed Rule: https://lnk.to/asgf20250314
CMS Updates to MA and Part D for CY 2026: https://lnk.to/asgf20250425
Expanded Medicare Telehealth Benefits Extended Through September 2025: https://ritterim.com/blog/expanded-medicare-telehealth-benefits-extended-through-september-2025/
Partner with Ritter Insurance Marketing
Recent ACA Coverage Changes Reversed with 2025 Marketplace Proposed Rule: https://ritterim.com/blog/recent-aca-changes-reversed-with-2026-marketplace-proposed-rule/
References:
“CMS Finalizes 2026 Payment Policy Updates for Medicare Advantage and Part D Programs.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 7 Apr. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-finalizes-2026-payment-policy-updates-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-programs.
“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, 4 Apr. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription-final.
“Medicare and Medicaid Programs; 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.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, 15 Apr. 2025, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/15/2025-06008/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-to-the-medicare.
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.

Apr 30, 2025 • 13min
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!
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
5 Insurance Marketing Tips to Help Agents Stand Out from the Crowd: https://lnk.to/asgf20250321
5 Types of Content to Share on Social Media: https://lnk.to/asgf20250131
Apps for Content Creation: https://lnk.to/ASGA81
Build Your Brand with Community Involvement: https://ritterim.com/blog/build-your-brand-with-community-involvement/
Carriers with Ritter: https://ritterim.com/products/by-carrier/
Community Engagement & ACA Marketing Suggestions for Agents: https://ritterim.com/blog/community-engagement-aca-marketing-suggestions-for-agents/
How to Better Market Yourself: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-to-better-market-yourself/
Marketing & Incentives: https://ritterim.com/marketing-incentives/
Meet Your Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
Why Being a Likable Agent Is Good for Your Business: https://ritterim.com/blog/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
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Apr 29, 2025 • 34min
Leveling Up: From Chill Mode to Growth Mode ft. Christian Brindle
Ready to break out of your comfort zone and start scaling your insurance business? Christian Brindle, host of the Seven Figures or Bust podcast, joins Sarah to talk about next steps for agents, regardless of where you’re at in the industry today.
Read the text version
The 7 Figures or Bust Community:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/551409828919739
Podcast: https://lnk.to/qxXT4M
Register for the Seven Figures Summit: https://sevenfiguremedicareagentsummit.com/
University: https://sevenfigureu.com/
Find Christian Brindle Online:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christianbrindle/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-brindle-a4411ab4/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCa1Nb2ZB5TbBJ3-jYO90chQ
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing!
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.

Apr 28, 2025 • 10min
Agent Requirements for ACA Sales
Discover the steps to get ready-to-sell in the Affordable Care Act Marketplace. We’re talking certifications, client authorization, and more!
Read the text version
Register with Ritter
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
ACA Forms:
ACA Consumer Authorization Live Call Script: https://ritterim.com/documents/aca-consumer-authorization-live-call-script.pdf
Eligibility Application Attestation: https://ritterim.com/documents/aca-eligibility-application-attestation.pdf
Eligibility Application Attestation Live Call Script: https://ritterim.com/documents/aca-consumer-eligibility-application-attestation-live-call-script.pdf
Marketplace Consent Form: https://ritterim.com/documents/aca-consumer-marketplace-authorization-form.pdf
Resources:
2025 ACA Exchange & FFM Certification Info: https://lnk.to/ZvnhS8
Contract & Get Appointment to Sell with Health Insurance Companies: https://ritterim.com/blog/contract-get-appointed-to-sell-with-health-insurance-companies/
Everything Agents Need to Know About Selling in State-Based Marketplaces: https://ritterim.com/blog/everything-agents-need-to-know-about-selling-in-state-based-marketplaces/ (check podcast)
Free eBooks & Guides: https://ritterim.com/guides/
How Agents Can Protect Clients from Unauthorized ACA Plan Switching: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-agents-can-protect-clients-from-unauthorized-aca-plan-switching/
How to Become Certified for Aca Marketplace Sales with Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) Training) https://ritterim.com/blog/how-to-become-certified-for-aca-marketplace-sales-with-federally-facilitated-marketplace-ffm-training/ (check podcast version)
How to Help Clients Navigate ACA Marketplace Subsidies & Taxes: https://lnk.to/qzlRwV
Meet Your Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
New Required Documents Agents Need for ACA Sales: https://ritterim.com/blog/new-required-documents-agents-need-for-aca-sales/
OEP Ready-to-Sell Checklist for New Agents: https://ritterim.com/documents/oep-ready-to-sell-checklist.pdf
Recent ACA Coverage Changes Reversed with 2025 Marketplace Proposed Rule: https://ritterim.com/blog/recent-aca-changes-reversed-with-2026-marketplace-proposed-rule/
The Ritter Blog: https://ritterim.com/blog/
The Ritter Platform: https://ritterim.com/the-ritter-platform/
Under-65 Health: https://ritterim.com/products/under-65/
References:
“CMS Update on Actions to Prevent Unauthorized Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-update-actions-prevent-unauthorized-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.
“Returning Agents’ and Brokers’ Guide to Plan Year 2025 ...” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/returning-agents-and-brokers-guide-marketplace-registration-and-training.pdf. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.
“The Marketplace in Your State.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/marketplace-in-your-state/. Accessed 31 Mar. 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.

Apr 25, 2025 • 17min
CMS Updates to MA and Part D for CY 2026
The Friday Five for April 25, 2025:
Dr. Oz shares MAHA vision as CMS admin
CY 2026 Part D Coverage Cost Breakdown
CY 2026 Selected Drug Subsidy Cost Breakdown
Provisions Not Finalized in 2026 MA and Part D Final Rule
Impact of Non-Finalized Provisions on Agents
Dr. Oz shares MAHA vision as CMS admin:
Simmons-Duffin, Selena. “5 Things to Know as Dr. Oz Prepares to Lead Medicare and Medicaid.” NPR.Org, NPR, 3 Apr. 2025, www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/03/25/g-s1-55766/dr-mehmet-oz-medicare-medicaid-cms-trump.
“Dr. Mehmet Oz Shares Vision for CMS.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 25 Apr. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/dr-mehmet-oz-shares-vision-cms.
Olsen, Emily. “Dr. Oz Sworn in as CMS Administrator.” Healthcaredive.Com, Healthcare Dive, 21 Apr. 2025, www.healthcaredive.com/news/dr-mehmet-oz-sworn-in-cms-administrator/745880/.
CY 2026 Part D Coverage Cost Breakdown:
“Final CY 2026 Part D Redesign Program Instructions.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/final-cy-2026-part-d-redesign-program-instructions. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
“Medicare and Medicaid Programs; 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.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, 15 Apr. 2025, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/15/2025-06008/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-to-the-medicare.
CY 2026 Selected Drug Subsidy Cost Breakdown:
John, Stephnie A., and Abdie Santiago. “The IRA in 2025: The Future of Medicare Part D.” Mintz.Com, Mintz, 13 Feb. 2025, www.mintz.com/insights-center/viewpoints/2146/2025-02-13-ira-2025-future-medicare-part-d.
“Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Manual – Chapter 5.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/chapter-5-benefits-and-beneficiary-protection-v92011.pdf. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
“Factsheet: Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-selected-drug-negotiation-list-ipay-2026.pdf. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
Provisions Not Finalized in 2026 MA and Part D Final Rule:
“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, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription-final. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
Tong, Noah. “Medicare Advantage Final Rule Excludes Anti-Obesity Drug Coverage under Medicare, Medicaid.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 4 Apr. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/medicare-advantage-final-rule-excludes-anti-obesity-drug-coverage-under-medicare-medicaid.
“Medicare and Medicaid Programs; 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.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/15/2025-06008/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-to-the-medicare. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
“Medicare Coverage of Anti-Obesity Medications.” Aspe.Hhs.Gov, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, 26 Nov. 2024, aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/127bd5b3347b34be31ac5c6b5ed30e6a/medicare-coverage-anti-obesity-meds.pdf.
Resources:
2025 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D: https://ritterim.com/blog/2025-maximum-broker-commissions-for-medicare-advantage-and-medicare-part-d/
3 Additional Effective Techniques for Closing Insurance Sales: https://lnk.to/asg656
4 Effective Techniques for Closing Insurance Sales: https://lnk.to/asg655
5 Things About the 2026 CMS MA and Part D Rate Announcement: https://lnk.to/asgf20250411
CMS Updates, Content Library, & More! https://lnk.to/asgf20250328
Recent ACA Coverage Changes Reversed with 2025 Marketplace Proposed Rule: https://ritterim.com/blog/recent-aca-changes-reversed-with-2026-marketplace-proposed-rule/
Subscribe to the Ritter Blog: https://ritterim.com/blog/
The Best Appointment Schedulers for Insurance Agents: https://lnk.to/asg657
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.