Steve Bergee LACP's dedication to the financial services industry and NAIFA highlights the importance of advocacy, relationship-building, and the profound impact insurance professionals have on their clients' lives. 

Steve began his journey in the financial services industry as a customer service representative at a life insurance company. This experience opened his eyes to the importance of a strong advisor-client relationship, sparking his passion for the profession. Steve was drawn to the financial services industry by the ability to provide solutions and protect people’s financial goals. The satisfaction of helping clients safeguard their future continues to inspire him daily. Steve and his team at E4 Insurance Services LLC (which was named NAIFA’s 2024 Financial Security Champion of the Year) specialize in life insurance, annuities, long-term care, and disability income solutions.

Congratulations to Life Happens, which joined NAIFA as our consumer-education community last year and is celebrating its 30^th anniversary today. NAIFA was a key player among the industry organizations that founded Life Happens in 1994 to educate consumers about life insurance and related products.

I have had my share of memories regarding Presidential elections going back for some time now. Probably the first I vividly remember involved Republican challenger and Senator Barry Goldwater running against incumbent President Lyndon Johnson. I particularly remember the ad showing the potential destruction of an atomic bomb that was run by the Johnson campaign. It indicated that Senator Goldwater would be trigger-happy with the A-bomb if he won the White House. And so it has been regarding presidential elections since that time.

New NAIFA member, Alexander Flecker, CFP, CIMA, Head of Distribution at Measured Risk Portfolios, shares insights into his journey in the financial services industry and the firm's rapid growth since joining in mid-2023. During his tenure, Measured Risk Portfolios has seen a significant rise in assets under management, from $260 million to over $345 million, and has led a complete rebranding of the firm’s flagship SMA offering, now called SynthEquity™. This expansion has been fueled by increased visibility in the marketplace, which has led to new external partnerships and increased advisor allocations. However, when asked, Flecker humbly attributes the strategy’s exceptional performance to his ability to execute a successful business development effort.

Amanda Brewton is a seasoned Medicare expert with over 17 years in the industry. Opening her agency five years ago, she now oversees approximately 500 agents across 40 states and hosts two national conferences designed to empower and educate professionals in her field. Amanda is passionate about advocacy for seniors, ensuring they don't have to choose between essential needs due to Medicare complexities. Her innovative approach involves using themed training to enhance engagement and creating supportive communities for independent insurance agents.

As we conclude another impactful Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM), I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible efforts of our NAIFA members, corporate partners, and the broader financial services community. Together, we’ve made significant strides in educating and empowering individuals and families across the nation about the importance of life insurance and its critical role in securing financial futures.

Jake Kaufmann’s dedication to his clients, his passion for the financial services industry, and his leadership within NAIFA all highlight his commitment to helping others succeed. His journey serves as an inspiring example of what it means to thrive in the insurance profession while making a meaningful difference in the lives of clients and colleagues alike. Hailing from Billings, MT, Jake has been a loyal NAIFA member since 2017.

As we approach the sunset of key provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) set for 2025, taxpayers and businesses alike are bracing for significant changes. With the potential for major tax legislation on the horizon, now is the time to prepare.

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