Tom Schmidt, CFBS CLTC LACP’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication. From an unconventional start in the life insurance business to becoming a highly successful financial professional, Tom has navigated a career filled with challenges and triumphs. Over the decades, he has built enduring relationships with clients, many of whom have been with him for over 30 years.

Tom entered the financial services industry in February 1988, stepping into a career he hadn’t anticipated. Leaving behind a job at Amoco, Tom was enticed by the promise of a more rewarding future in financial services. However, he quickly discovered that the role centered on life insurance, something he hadn’t been aware of beforehand. Despite the initial shock and challenges of working on straight commission, Tom leaned into his natural work ethic, his extensive network, and his determination to succeed. He shares, “For a newbie in the business, I had pretty good success right off the bat. But it wasn’t easy—I learned quickly that building trust and relationships was everything in this industry.”

Tom’s perseverance paid off, and over time he cultivated a thriving client base. Many of his first clients remain with him today, a testament to the loyalty and trust he inspires.

The January issue of the Journal of Financial Service Professionals has arrived, and it’s a must-read for anyone in the financial services community. A much-anticipated feature of this edition is the annual indexed retirement and Social Security numbers for 2025, conveniently presented in an easy-to-reference table. Whether you’re working with clients on retirement strategies or simply staying current on new regulations, this table is an invaluable resource you’ll find yourself consulting all year long. For over 75 years, the Journal has been recognized as one of the best and most prestigious publications in the financial services field.

According to the 2024 Insurance Barometer Study by Life Happens and LIMRA, 59% of U.S. adults use social media to find information about financial and insurance products. Recognizing this growing trend, Life Happens, now part of the NAIFA family, offers NAIFA-branded social media content covering life insurance, disability insurance, long-term care insurance, annuities, and general financial planning.

Happy New Year from your friends and colleagues at NAIFA. I hope you had a joyful and restful holiday season.

Joe Sparacio, CLU, LUTCF, CLF, a 30-year veteran of the financial services industry and loyal member since 1991, stands as a beacon of dedication and leadership. His career, marked by stints at major firms such as Prudential Financial, MassMutual, and now National Life Group, reflects a deep commitment not just to his profession but also to its broader impact. Joe’s journey illustrates the fusion of personal success, community impact, and industry stewardship, with a significant part of his story woven through his connection with the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA).

Christopher Potts, a seasoned financial professional and passionate advocate for the financial services industry, exemplifies leadership, commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Christopher has seamlessly combined his roles as a mentor, advisor, and advocate, leaving an indelible mark on the communities he serves and the industry he represents.

After earning a finance degree from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, Tyler Engelhaupt entered the insurance industry, initially seeking a case manager role with a focus on financial advising. Instead, he found himself in a sales position at Ash, where his career quickly flourished. Specializing in annuities and retirement planning, Tyler now works alongside other advisors to help clients achieve their retirement goals through customized financial strategies.

NAIFA, the leading association of financial professionals in the United States, has revitalized its Find a Financial Service Professional search directory to provide consumers with easy access to the highly skilled, experienced professionals who subscribe to NAIFA’s Code of Ethics. The tool is located on lifehappens.org, the consumer-facing website of NAIFA’s Life Happens community. It draws from a database of financial service professionals from various practice specialties who are NAIFA members, including legacy members of the Society of Financial Service Professionals, or subscribers to Life Happens Pro.