Greg Etchison is an experienced professional in the Medicare supplement business. With a career spanning over 25 years in the healthcare industry, he also has extensive experience across major carriers. Greg is passionate about educating people about healthcare options and optimizing coverage for seniors. He is a leading voice in Medicare supplement education, guiding individuals through the complexities of healthcare.

Scott Wilson is a seasoned professional with 23 years of experience in the Medicare supplement business. He has extensive knowledge in all aspects of the business, from product strategy to compliance. With a focus on product development and operations, Scott has also overseen aspects of financial management, including profit and loss responsibilities. His comprehensive background enables him to offer holistic insight into the industry, ensuring a thorough understanding of the intricacies of Medicare for anyone seeking guidance.

One-third of financial advisors are predicted to retire in the next 10 years, creating an opportunity for advisors looking to grow or sell their practice. Join NAIFA member, David Wood, for the "M&A Summit: Opportunity of a Lifetime", offered in-person and virtually throughout the rest of 2024. Industry professionals come together for an in-depth exploration of mergers and acquisitions and learn how to harness the wave of retiring advisors to capitalize on this opportunity. 

We're proud to support David in this program because we've long heard our members struggle to understand how to value their business, options for succession planning, and practical tips for how to actually sell their business. Advisors in the growth mode of their business are looking to rapidly expand and understand that buying a book of business would catapult them to the next level, but typically don't know where to go or how to go about buying a business (or, how to afford it!) NAIFA is bringing members together to solve both sides of this problem and enabling our membership society to be a safe space for us to learn and work together to achieve win-win results.

This event is designed specifically for financial advisors looking to buy, sell, or merge practices. With a focus on strategic growth, you’ll gain essential tactics and insights on how to become acquisition-ready, leverage the M&A wave, and ensure your practice thrives amidst the evolving landscape of retiring advisors.

David is a recognized thought leader and speaker in the space and will cover the latest trends and best practices in mergers and acquisitions, offering you actionable strategies to maximize the value of your deals and secure a competitive edge in the market.

All of the firm’s advisors become NAIFA members and are poised to participate in NAIFA’s unmatched state and federal advocacy success under an agency-wide membership program.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce that Allstate The Goines Agency in Clarksville, Tennessee has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, Allstate The Goines Agency has enrolled all of its advisors as NAIFA members, enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs, and encourages them to participate in NAIFA as a group. Group members are proudly displayed to consumers on the consumer-facing financialsecurity.org site and members are listed in Life Happens’ “Find a Financial Service Professional” search at www.lifehappens.org.

NAIFA's Financial Security Advocate Academy is a fun and informative program available to NAIFA members at no cost. It provides insights and training that will financial professionals great political advocates on behalf of their businesses and clients. Decisions made in Washington, D.C., and state capitals can do as much as poor planning to derail consumers' finances. Financial professionals simply are not providing comprehensive services for their clients if they are not politically aware and involved.

Join your friends and colleagues at the Arizona Biltmore, September 19-21, for NAIFA's combined signature events, Apex and the National Leadership Conference. You can see who will be there on our Apex Who's Coming? page. Add your name to the list by registering today!

NAIFA is proud to announce that John M. Ruckel, LUTCF, a Financial Professional with MassMutual and owner of Ruckel Insurance and Financial Group in Nacogdoches, Texas, is the 2024 recipient of NAIFA’s Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award.

Join us for a deep dive webinar on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Eastern. Two Humana experts, with nearly 45 years of combined experience, will delve into the benefits and opportunities of Medicare Supplement products.

Shantell Wright is a seasoned professional with 14 years of experience in the financial services industry. He is also the visionary behind a financial services company that offers solutions to build and grow wealth. Having overcome personal challenges, Shantell uses his experience to empower clients from all socio-economic backgrounds. With a commitment to adding value, making connections, and creating an impact, he partners with marketing expert John Lewis to reimagine financial services through technology. Shantell is also a NAIFA member and a graduate of the Life in Leadership Institute.

John Lewis is a marketing expert, host of a community-focused podcast, and a dedicated social strategist providing financial information to underserved communities. His disadvantaged upbringing empowers him to educate and enrich his community with life-enhancing financial strategies. Alongside his professional pursuit, Lewis embodies a passion for creating meaningful connections and a genuine commitment to social service.

All of the firm’s advisors become NAIFA members and are poised to participate in NAIFA’s unmatched state and federal advocacy success under an agency-wide membership program.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce that Blake Wealth Partners in Columbus, Ohio has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, Blake Wealth Partners has enrolled all of its advisors as NAIFA members, enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs, and encourages them to participate in NAIFA as a group. Group members are proudly displayed to consumers on the consumer-facing financialsecurity.org site and members are listed in Life Happens’ “Find a Financial Service Professional” search at www.lifehappens.org.

One of the great things about NAIFA is that it gives insurance and financial professionals opportunities to network and share ideas with the best of the best. Our Apex event and National Leadership Conference attract top professionals and volunteer leaders from across our association and across the country.

This year, Apex and NLC (including the popular Belong awards gala) are combined as spectacular three-day event, September 19-21, at the Arizona Biltmore. Don’t miss out. Register today!

Panos Leledakis, a dynamic financial advisor and tech enthusiast, has revolutionized client engagement with cutting-edge digital strategies. With an impressive 25-year career spanning multiple countries, he has become a thought leader in utilizing AI and other technologies in the financial services industry. As a NAIFA member and a keynote speaker, Panos is committed to helping advisors implement technology into their practices to enhance productivity and service. He invented two software platforms for insurance needs analysis, which received innovation awards from organizations like MIT and the Chamber of Industrialists in Cyprus. 

Reggie Miller said, "Sharks never stop swimming; that's when they die. You gotta keep moving" and no one believes that more than NAIFA member, Walter Bond. In the essence of "never stop swimming," there are multiple places in the coming weeks where you have the opportunity to engage with Walter, the author of "Swim!: How a Shark, Suckerfish, and a Parasite Teach Your Leadership, Mentoring, and Next Level Success."  Jump in to discover how Walter can help make you more productive this summer from workshops to books to Apex!

On May 3, 2024, NAIFA Member, Herschel Hester, III, CLTC, LUTCF, CRPC, passed away at the age of 82. Hester was born on May 11, 1941, in Parsons, Kansas. He graduated from Webster State College in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science and from Utah State University in 1967 with a Master of Science.

Hester was active in NAIFA-Utah, joining in 1986, and was a past NAIFA Quality Award recipient. Throughout his career, Hester worked at Thiokol Corp., Weber State College, the Utah League of Cities and Towns, and Prudential Insurance Company. At the time of his death, he had an independent financial and insurance business specializing in Medicare, health, life, and long-term care insurance.

Documents are ever-present in the lives of insurance and financial professionals. From policy agreements to annuity contracts to the full slate of disclosures, written agreements and promises are important parts of what you do. 

Today, our nation celebrates one of its founding documents. Along with the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence ranks as the most revered document in the United States. On July 4th, 1776, as we all know, our American forebears used this document to proclaim their independence as a nation. The Constitution, the world’s oldest charter of government still in effect, came just over a decade later and serves as a promise to the American people of the obligations of the government and rights of the governed. 

I hope all of you who have come to Washington, D.C., for NAIFA’s Congressional Conference have taken the opportunity to see original versions of these awe-inspiring documents on display in the Rotunda of Freedom at the National Archives Building. If not, there’s always next year.

While you may not keep client agreements on display in a low-light, helium-filled case under bullet-proof glass, they represent another important type of freedom and independence. They provide American families with freedom from financial worry and small business owners with the independence to pursue the American Dream. On this day that we celebrate our nation’s independence and the freedoms we all enjoy, I am very proud to serve those of you who expand that independence to financial matters for so many Americans.

On behalf of NAIFA’s Board of Trustees and our national staff, I wish each of you a very happy Fourth of July.

Join us for a webinar on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Eastern, to explore Pension Risk Transfer (PRT) and discover how it can open the door to new client opportunities. This live event is free for members.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Connelly v. United States has fundamentally changed the landscape of buy-sell planning for many business owners. Join us for a webinar on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm eastern, to explore these changes and learn how to navigate the new complexities of buy-sell agreements effectively. This live event is free for members.

NAIFA is proud to announce the launch of the new digital edition of the Journal of Financial Service Professionals (JFSP) that offers a range of innovative features designed to enhance the reader experience. This exciting development not only makes the JFSP more accessible and interactive to NAIFA members but also supports sustainability efforts by reducing NAIFA’s carbon footprint.

NAIFA is proud to announce that Matthew S. Tassey, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, is the recipient of the 84^th annual John Newton Russell Memorial Award. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance. The selection committee consists of representatives of 11 leading organizations in the life insurance and financial services industry. Tassey will be celebrated and formally presented the award at NAIFA’s Apex 2024 and Belong event Sept. 21 at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix.

Message From the CEO

One hundred and thirty-four years ago today, a group of life insurance agents from different parts of the United States gathered at the Parker House in Boston to create the National Association of Life Underwriters. This organization, which grew into the NAIFA we cherish and celebrate today, was formed to promote the success of the life insurance industry and encourage laws prohibiting life insurance agents from engaging in questionable or unethical practices.

Carson Porter is an experienced financial advisor providing specialized life insurance, annuities, and financial services across the United States. His journey from owning auto repair shops to excelling in the financial industry is marked by a passion for education, innovation, and business development. Carson founded a mastermind group dedicated to empowering insurance agents and advisors through unbiased education, collaboration, and accountability. With a decade of industry experience, he has built and sold multiple brokerage businesses and shares his insights at live events, including NAIFA's APEX conference.

In the ever-evolving world of insurance, finding your niche and building lasting relationships are keys to success. For Chris Davenport, a seasoned professional in the field, his journey into the insurance business began unexpectedly but has since flourished into a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others protect their futures.

Earlier this year, I encountered a remarkable AI tool with transformative capabilities. This tool can seamlessly import various documents, such as a PDF of an IUL illustration, and then empower users to enact changes effortlessly. With just a simple click of a button labeled "Analyze with AI," it initiates a swift process of recalculations, adjusting parameters like premium, face amount, load amount, and credit rating. Within moments, users witness a comprehensive comparison between the original illustration and the updated version, highlighting all alterations. What's truly astonishing is the elimination of the tedious back-and-forth with carrier software for rerunning illustrations; instead, this tool offers instant results with an impressive 99% accuracy rate in predictive calculations. Moreover, it facilitates the creation of Inforce ledgers without the need to procure them from the Life Carrier.

Major federal tax legislation is all but certain to be coming from Washington, D.C., in 2025. Many provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire at the end of next year and Congress will need to address the situation. This NAIFA advocacy webinar will give you a better understanding of what is being dubbed the "Super Bowl of Tax" and provide insights into some of the proposals likely to shape the debate.

Message From the CEO

Graduates of NAIFA’s Leadership in Life Institute have a deep appreciation for The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by renowned leadership authority Stephen Covey. They may be familiar with Covey’s quote, “If there’s one thing that’s certain in business, it’s uncertainty.” The same principle applies to life.

Transitions often amplify uncertainty, and among the most uncertain times for many is the transition into retirement. It has been widely reported that 2024 is the year of “peak 65” in the United States, as an average of 11,000 people reach the traditional retirement age of 65 each day. With more than half of peak 65ers owning investable assets of less than $100,000, according to the 2024 Protected Retirement Income and Planning (PRIP) by the Alliance for Lifetime Income (ALI), the unlikelihood of enjoying lasting financial wellbeing is a real concern for many. The 2024 Insurance Barometer Study by LIMRA and Life Happens, NAIFA’s consumer-education arm, confirms this conclusion, revealing that “having enough money for a comfortable retirement” is U.S. consumers’ leading financial concern, ranking even above worries about paying monthly bills and reducing debt.

In the ever-evolving landscape of retirement planning, Social Security remains a critical source of income for most Americans. The annual release of the Trust Fund Report, issued in May, sparked widespread media coverage and client concern. Questions such as "Will Social Security still be there?" and "Is it going broke?" continue to circulate. Join us for a webinar on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Eastern, sponsored by Security Mutual Life which can help you deal with the concerns that clients may have. 

NAIFA members are invited to the Q3 State of NAIFA webinar at 12 pm Eastern, June 27, 2024. Hear updates on NAIFA's advocacy efforts, professional development programs and other membership activities designed to enhance your professional growth.

May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month. To mark the occasion, Advisor Today is please to bring you this article by the DI Geek, himself, Corey Anderson. Opinions expressed are those of the author.

Prior to NAIFA's Congressional Conference, our new partner, Stonewood Financial, provided a workshop titled, Protecting Your Clients (and Their Retirement) from Washington. Becky Ruby Swansburg and Neil Wilding both presented during the morning and are both authors, along with Becky's father, Martin H. Ruby of The Holistic Retirement book which was distributed to all attendees.

NAIFA and Stonewood became a NAIFA partner in February 2024  and many NAIFA members have benefited from their training and presentations. Todd Gaswick, LACP, loyal member since 2005, provided a testimonial during the preconference session stating how much their content has helped his practice. Jim Musgrave, CRPC, a new member who joined NAIFA while attending the Stonewood Financial conference in Louisville where NAIFA spoke and exhibited in February came to his first Congressional Conference this week. 

Asset-Map and NAIFA are co-hosting a webinar showcasing the new "Caring Conversation" stencil designed by Carroll Golden, author, speaker, and Executive Director of NAIFA's Centers of Excellence. Learn how to use this tool to have more comprehensive conversations with your clients and tackle tough topics such as long-term care with grace and ease.

Special Webinar on The Caregiving Conversation for FAs
When: Thursday, June 6th
Time: 2 pm eastern

Arlington, VA – The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is excited to announce the launch of the “Caring Conversation” Stencil, a new tool developed by Carroll Golden, Executive Director of NAIFA's Centers of Excellence. This revolutionary stencil is integrated into the Asset-Map software platform, enhancing the toolkit available to financial advisors. This innovation aims to provide advisors with the means to offer comprehensive financial planning solutions, encompassing short-term, long-term, and extended care scenarios.

The “Caring Conversation” Stencil has been crafted with precision to assist advisors in mapping out all possible financial implications of caregiving scenarios. This tool allows for a more holistic approach to financial planning by addressing the specific needs related to caregiving, a critical aspect often overlooked in traditional financial planning processes.

Carroll Golden, the architect of the “Caring Conversation” Stencil and a prominent figure in caregiving financial planning, commented on the release, "With the growing need for specialized financial advice in the context of caregiving, it became essential to provide a tool that empowers advisors to address these unique challenges comprehensively. The “Caring Conversation” Stencil is designed to seamlessly integrate into the existing framework of Asset-Map’s software, ensuring that advisors can provide targeted guidance efficiently and effectively."

Asset-Map, known for its innovative financial planning software, will now feature the “Caring Conversation” Stencil as a part of its platform. This inclusion aims to facilitate advisors in delivering personalized and precise financial planning strategies that account for the complexities of caregiving. The stencil enhances advisors' ability to visualize and manage their clients' financial landscapes, considering the potential financial impact of caregiving responsibilities.

Iris Nance is an experienced insurance agent who helps people optimize their coverage to meet their needs. With a celebrated career of over 26 years in the insurance industry, she worked as a bank examiner for over 10 years. Iris is deeply committed to education, mentorship, and community service, actively participating in programs for students and young entrepreneurs. A proud member of NAIFA, she has served on the board and has taken on leadership roles within the association. Recognized for her perseverance, advocacy for continuous learning, and strategies for balancing work and family life, Iris inspires many as a role model in the financial services industry.

In the complex world of financial planning, life insurance remains fundamental. However, the traditional view of life insurance as merely a safety net is evolving, especially when it comes to enhancing charitable giving strategies. We invite you to join our us on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Eastern. This webinar is made available at no cost to both NAIFA members and non-members, thanks to the generous sponsorship by the American Cancer Society.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is thrilled to announce a new strategic partnership with Brookstone Capital Management, a leading financial advisory firm based in Wheaton, IL. The partnership was formalized earlier this year and will be launched through Brookstone’s participation in NAIFA’s upcoming Congressional Conference to be held May 20-21, 2024 in Washington, D.C.

As part of the partnership agreement, Brookstone Capital Management will join NAIFA’s member benefits program and be recognized as a sponsor of NAIFA’s Center of Excellence. Derek Gubala, Director of Business Development, will join the Center’s Advisory Group and provide expert feedback for NAIFA’s Legislative Working Group. Additionally, the two organizations will mutually support events, publications, and thought leadership initiatives.

May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month (DIAM), a national awareness campaign that NAIFA’s consumer division Life Happens created and coordinates each year. This awareness campaign is critical because 4 in 10 people of working age are “extremely concerned” about being able to support themselves if an illness or injury were to keep them out of work, according to the 2023 Insurance Barometer Study by Life Happens and LIMRA.

Evan Fabricant is a financial advisor committed to helping his clients achieve their financial goals, whether planning for retirement or exploring efficient strategies to pass on their wealth to the next generation. Evan has been advising clients since 1997 and is passionate about forming genuine relationships and positively influencing individuals and their families.

As a firm believer in professional education, Evan holds several distinctions, including Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP). He is highly active in the Society of Financial Service Professionals (SFSP) and NAIFA, demonstrating his leadership by advocating for the industry's future and committing to legislative impact.

At the end of April, NAIFA was a proud sponsor of the 2024 Farmers Embrace Conference in Las Vegas. In 2020, this conference was created by Gabriela Reyna, loyal member since 2011, has grown to more than 800 attendees in just five years. Life Happens was honored to be selected as the 2024 Conference Charity and sponsored keynote speaker, Van Mueller, loyal member since 1979.

The Trifecta teams of Membership, IFAPAC, and Grassroots have identified their Q1 2024 Hard Hat Winners. Congratulations to Lee Owen and Rith Nou dual recipients for Membership, Mark Miller for Grassroots, and Tom Henry for IFAPAC. These leaders have gone above and beyond in the first three months of this year to move the needle in their respective areas. We are #NAIFAproud of the work they do every day in their communities, for their clients, and our association!

Sue Kuraja is a brokerage director specializing in providing non-profit consultancy services. She focuses on aligning personal and professional goals to maximize outcomes for organizations. With her strategic guidance and personalized approach, she helps build successful and sustainable organizations that drive real-world impact. As an experienced tech researcher, journalist, and business transformation advocate, Sue was recognized as the 2021 Women in Insurance & Financial Services Woman of the Year and achieved the Financial Security Advocate badge from NAIFA. 

Message From the CEO

Life Happens, NAIFA’s consumer-education arm, has collaborated for the 14th year with LIMRA to conduct the 2024 Insurance Barometer Study. The findings reveal a great opportunity for financial professionals to educate Americans about the importance of life insurance and dispel some of the myths and misunderstandings that contribute to a life insurance need-gap in the United States. As we wrap up April, National Financial Literacy Month, it’s a great time to remember that an important part of being a financial professional involves improving the financial literacy of clients and consumers.

NAIFA is saddened by the news that association Past President Robert B. Hughes, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, LIC, recently passed away. A Senior Agent with Principal Financial Group in East Lansing, Michigan, before he retired, Hughes first became a NAIFA member in 1962 and served as national President for the 1983-1984 term. He was the President of NAIFA-Michigan in 1977-1978.

A NAIFA Advocacy Webinar
May 2 | 2 pm eastern

The U.S. Department of Labor‘s final fiduciary-only rule will force the vast majority of financial professionals offering retirement planning services and products into a fee-for-service model, unless Congress or the courts intervene. It will deprive many consumers of the valuable option of working with professionals operating under alternative models, including those with commission-based compensation, that may better meet their needs.

Richard Dobson is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who strives to simplify communication between clients and financial advisors. As a keynote speaker, he has provided insurance and investment advice for over 40 years. Richard is the author of Make Simplicity Your Superpower! and The Trusted Professional. He is also a NAIFA member and has previously served as a former FINRA Broker Dealer Chief Compliance Officer (CCO).

Ensuring income protection is critical for your clients, particularly during their income-earning years. We invite you to join our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Eastern. Sponsored by Ash Brokerage, this webinar is designed to arm financial professionals with the tools and techniques needed to effectively manage discussions around disability income plans and life insurance.

Congratulations to NAIFA Trustee Stephen Kagawa, LUTCF, FSS, on being named the 71^st recipient of NAIFA-Los Angeles’s Will G. Farrell Public Service Award. The CEO and Chairman of the Board of The Pacific Bridge Companies has been a loyal NAIFA member since 1986.

NAIFA Trustee Barbara A. Pietrangelo, an accomplished Financial Planner and a loyal member of NAIFA since 1992, stands out as a beacon of expertise and commitment. Her career began in 1991 at the Prudential Insurance Company of America, where she has since ascended to become the Wealth Solutions Report Financial Planner of the Year as One of the Top Women Industry Leaders for 2024. 

David McKnight is a renowned financial advisor and expert in zero-tax retirement planning, having assisted thousands of Americans in achieving the zero percent tax bracket. He has frequently appeared in numerous national publications, including Forbes, USA Today, the New York Times, Fox Business, CBS Radio, and Bloomberg Radio. With four #1 Amazon best-selling books to his credit, including The Power of Zero, Look Before You LIRP, The Volatility Shield, and Tax-Free Income for Life, David has established himself as a leading authority in retirement planning. In his acclaimed book, The Power of Zero, he presents a comprehensive guide on how to achieve a 0% tax bracket in retirement through a carefully crafted, step-by-step approach.

NAIFA has redesigned and relaunched the Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF®) program, a three-course training series for one of the most sought-after designations in the insurance industry. Since 1984, NAIFA’s LUTCF has prepared more than 70,000 insurance and financial professionals to excel in the industry and is often the first designation successful agents and advisors earn.

The Foundation for Financial Service Professionals has announced the recipients of the Kenneth Black Jr. Journal Author Awards for articles published in the Journal of Financial Service Professionals in 2023. Since 1988, the Foundation has recognized the top three articles published in a specific volume (six issues within the same calendar year) with these annual awards. 

In celebration of Financial Literacy Month, Life Happens has created a social media toolkit of posts and graphics available to all members who utilize their social media platforms to raise awareness of the importance of financial literacy. The images are co-branded with both the NAIFA and Life Happens logos.

Mike Paffhausen’s journey from a civil engineering graduate to the owner of the Mike Paffhausen State Farm Agency in Butte, Montana, is a tale of finding one's true calling beyond the confines of traditional career paths. His transition into the insurance sector was largely influenced by his desire to help others navigate their financial lives, a passion ignited by a book on financial literacy he received upon graduating from Carroll College. This newfound purpose led him to leave a budding career in engineering to join the family legacy at State Farm, driven by the dream of making a tangible difference in people’s lives through financial services. Eventually, this led him to take over a State Farm agency, where he utilizes his engineering skills in systematic planning and problem-solving to assist his clients through their toughest days. His dedication and impact in the field were recognized when he became a 2023 Advisor Today 4 under 40 award winner which highlighted his contributions to the industry and his community. 

Beyond the professional success Paffhausen's commitment to financial literacy didn't stop with his clients. Paffhausen is actively involved with NAIFA and as the 2022 state president of NAIFA-Montana saw him spearheading a campaign to mandate a financial literacy course for high school students in Montana. This initiative, borne from his own realization of the lack of financial education in schools, showcases his commitment to empowering the next generation with essential financial skills. Through NAIFA, Paffhausen has been instrumental in turning this vision into law, ensuring that future high school graduates in Montana are equipped with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions.

Paffhausen's story is not just about a career shift but a profound journey towards making a difference in the community through financial education and literacy. His efforts highlight the importance of personal finance knowledge and the significant role professionals in our industry can play in advocating for educational reform. Read the full story of Mike Paffhausen’s journey and his impact on financial literacy education, on Insurance News Net.

April is National Financial Literacy Month, an annual observation NAIFA wholeheartedly agrees with. But why is financial literacy important and what are we doing about it?

Out of the work that NAIFA has done through its Limited & Extended Care Planning Center spearheaded by Carroll Golden, best-selling author of three books on funding a dignified life and caregiving, as well as the organizer of NAIFA's Legislative Working Group that focuses on state and federal issues that will affect producers, we are proud to announce that we're continuing to expand our work in the Medicare space by partnering with Medicarians Vegas 2024. 

Medicarians is the home of senior health, wealth, and AgeTech. Set for April 8th - 10th, 2024, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, this event is a must-attend for those looking to navigate the future of the industry with confidence. This will be the only place to network and learn from more than 2,500 participants across this sector. NAIFA and Medicarians are partnering together to bring NAIFA's legislative risk knowledge to attendees and ensure that producers are aware of upcoming changes in the proposed final rule. 

NAIFA’s Congressional Conference is where you get to advocate for your business, peers, clients, and communities right at the heart of policy-making in Washington, D.C. It’s a direct line to influencing the decisions that affect millions who depend on your guidance. Engaging with Congress members this May isn’t just about representing your own interests; it's about voicing the collective needs of the financial services industry and the families and businesses that rely on you.

Have you ever wondered how to connect with prospects effortlessly? Imagine being able to establish meaningful relationships with anyone, anywhere, and at any time, regardless of the setting or circumstance. Surprisingly, it's not your technical knowledge of products and services that you can provide that forges these connections. Instead, it's your proficiency in developing essential soft skills that transform prospects into loyal clients.

Ronald Koehler: A Lifetime of Financial Planning Excellence and Advocacy

Ronald Koehler, ChFC, LUTCF, a veteran financial planner and loyal NAIFA member since 1984 from Galesburg, IL, has dedicated an impressive four decades to the industry. His impact resonates not only within his local community but also across the broader landscape of financial planning advocacy. In an exclusive interview, Koehler shared profound insights into his career journey, emphasizing his involvement with NAIFA (National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors) and the pivotal role of mentorship in shaping the future of financial advising.

Koehler's odyssey commenced in 1984, fresh out of Iowa State University in Ames, IA. Koehler's professional trajectory led him to Galesburg, where he is currently a Partner at Charterpoint Wealth Strategies.

Carina Hatfield is a Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist (CLCS), and Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP). As a third-generation insurance agent, she specializes in property and casualty insurance and works with locally owned businesses. Carina serves NAIFA as a National Trustee and a moderator for Pennsylvania’s Leadership in Life Institute. She is also the immediate past President of NAIFA Pennsylvania. Recently, Carina helped develop the organization’s new online LACP prep course. Her passion and dedication to the association earned her the 2020 Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year award.

Jill Judd is a distinguished Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), Financial Services Specialist (FSS), and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) with extensive experience in the insurance industry. Her professional mission is to provide individuals with the necessary tools and resources to manage the risks of everyday life, recover from unexpected events, and achieve their aspirations. Jill's expertise in the field has also led her to serve as a past President of NAIFA.

Before her career in financial services, Jill was an accomplished marketer who ran an advertising and marketing firm. Today, she leverages her knowledge and skills in the insurance industry to help clients navigate complex financial situations and make informed decisions about their future.

NAIFA members, mark your calendars for April 11th at 12 pm Eastern for the Q2 State of NAIFA webinar. Learn about the latest on NAIFA’s progress, advocacy efforts, and how you can get the most out of your membership.

Robert Miller, a retired second-generation financial advisor, has grown up around many prominent New York insurance agents and has served over six thousand clients. A loyal NAIFA member since 1983, he is the past President of NAIFA-New York City. As a graduate of the NAIFA Leadership in Life Institute (LILI), Robert served as the Chair of the NAIFA Governance Committee and was a member of the organization’s Finance Committee. His extensive experience and contributions to the financial advising industry make him a highly respected and accomplished professional.

The current 2024 issue of Advisor Today magazine is now available as a digital edition. All NAIFA members receive the printed edition of Advisor Today as an exclusive member benefit and we make the digital edition available after the print issue release. If you are not a NAIFA member, join us today!

Demetrius Bryant is an insurance agent helping individuals safeguard their income against unforeseen expenses. He runs a multi-line insurance business that has been a NAIFA member since 2011. Through his company, Demetrius offers comprehensive insurance services, including automobile, home, life, and business policies. He believes that protecting one's financial interests is fundamental to improving the overall quality of life.

Have you ever wondered if great leaders are born or made? Anyone can be a great leader if they understand themselves, know what motivates others to want to follow them, and apply what they learn.

NAIFA is proud to announce the formation of its Industry Leadership Board (ILB) comprised of distinguished leaders within the insurance and financial services sector. This inaugural board brings together a select group of financial professionals dedicated to helping NAIFA members succeed in their businesses and serve their clients.

Join us on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Eastern for a webinar on the evolving needs of aging clients in the financial industry. This session is vital for financial professionals who are navigating the complexities of managing assets for clients facing aging-related challenges. From unexpected caregiving roles to dementia and the necessity of leaving the workforce to care for loved ones, these issues significantly impact assets under management (AUM).

NAIFA's Congressional Conference shines a spotlight on NAIFA's unmatched advocacy influence and provides financial professionals with another way to serve consumers' best interests. NAIFA members who meet with their members of Congress this May will not only be advocating for their own businesses but also for their colleagues, clients, and communities. Decisions made in Washinton, D.C., affect the financial security of  families and businesses nationwide that rely on NAIFA members for financial guidance.

Congratulations to Mike Washburn, FSS, CLF, LUTCF, loyal member since 1987 of Cordova, TN on being inducted into American National's Multiple Line Hall of Fame. This honor recognizes a career of success in performance excellence, support of American National and its values, and a spirit of giving back to the industry, communities, and peers. In addition to receiving the most prestigious recognition that can be bestowed upon a member of the American National field team, he was also recognized as the Life Insurance MLGA of the Year, Gold. Mike joined American National in 1986 and became a NAIFA member the following year. He has held numerous positions on the NAIFA-Memphis/West-TN board, including serving as president in 1996.

Glenn Crawford is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) and a licensed insurance agent holding a Series 65 Investment Advisor Representative distinction. His mission is to support better financial outcomes for clients by educating, enabling, and empowering them to make sound decisions about their financial well-being. Glenn has also dedicated a significant part of his practice to advising clients on the financial aspects of divorce. Before entering the wealth management industry, he enjoyed a career in information technology and was a partner in a $65 million consultancy firm.

With over three decades of expertise in the Life Insurance sector, I've come to realize there's nothing more vital for safeguarding your business than cybersecurity. Whether you're a financial advisor, an insurance agent, a broker-dealer, or a principal of a brokerage agency, a single cyberattack could devastate your business. Adopting a Zero Trust approach is essential. Moreover, cybersecurity is crucial for meeting regulatory and compliance obligations. I urge you to conduct audits on your network and website. I'm here to assist you in securing a complimentary audit. Now, let's delve into some key insights on cyber insurance, compliance, and security.

Frank Maselli is an accomplished keynote speaker, coach, and author of three best-selling books. With over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, he has helped thousands of financial professionals grow and achieve success by providing them with contemporary skills well-suited to the demands of today's clients. With his programs based on human psychology, Frank is known for his pioneering ideas, dynamic thinking, and engaging delivery. He is a sought-after presenter, recognized as a top industry speaker.

In an ever-evolving landscape of personal finance and estate planning, staying ahead of the latest trends and legislative changes is paramount for professionals in the field. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the upcoming webinar led by Marty Shenkman, JD, CPA, MBA, PFS, will go over the critical developments and changes anticipated in 2024. Join us on February 27, 2024, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm eastern. 

NAIFA and Stonewood Financial have completed a partnership agreement whereby Stonewood Financial will become part of NAIFA’s Business Performance Center that provides education and legislative debriefs to members on issues concerning practice management. Additionally, the two organizations will have a presence at organizational meetings and conferences, including NAIFA’s May Congressional Conference in Washington, D.C., and its September Apex educational event in Phoenix, Arizona, and Stonewood’s spring and fall Innovate Conferences in Louisville, Ky.

Throughout February, NAIFA will be showing our appreciation for our members with articles on the Advisor Today platform and in social media posts. Our first print 2024 issue of Advisor Today magazine will be mailed exclusively to NAIFA members this month, with articles highlighting NAIFA President Tom Cothron, LUTCF, FSCP, 2023 NAIFA award recipients, attendees of NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference and Belong event, and much more.

February, the month of love, brings with it a unique opportunity to express our deepest affections in the most meaningful way possible. Life Happens, a devoted advocate for financial protection and security and NAIFA's consumer outreach arm, spearheads Insure Your Love Month every February.

This initiative serves as a reminder that one of the most profound demonstrations of love is ensuring the financial safety of our loved ones. The message is clear and powerful: acquiring life insurance is not just a financial decision; it's an act of love.

Do you have a well-thought-out strategy to start your day off right? Like many people, you might not. Instead, you probably have morning routines on autopilot, like making your bed and brushing your teeth. But, if you want to get the most out of your day, it is not the morning routines that will change your life, it’s mastering morning rituals!

Tom Palmeri is a Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) committed to helping clients build and safeguard their wealth. As a financial advisor, he has over 25 years of experience in insurance, investments, estate preservation, and employee benefit plans. Tom specializes in helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through compassion and empathy. He has demonstrated his leadership acumen by serving as a past President of the New York and Suffolk County chapters of NAIFA.

Delvin Joyce is a Certified Financial Planner specializing in providing comprehensive financial planning services. He collaborates with clients and their advisors to create a detailed and robust financial plan tailored to their unique needs and goals. As a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP), Delvin offers investment advisory services for retirement, education, and small business planning.

Join us on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm eastern, for a webinar on the future of Long-Term Care (LTC) planning. As states like Washington begin implementing mandated LTC plans, it's clear that addressing the care needs of our aging population is more crucial than ever. This session will delve into the evolving landscape of LTC insurance, exploring various options that range from traditional insurance to innovative life and annuity hybrids. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of these options, insights into the planning process, and an overview of state-level developments in LTC planning. This event is an invaluable opportunity for anyone involved in financial planning, insurance, or retirement strategies. NAIFA members can register for free, making it a not-to-be-missed event for those looking to stay informed in this rapidly changing field. This webinar is brought to you by Ash Brokerage. 

This week we brought staff and leaders together to host a new member orientation for the Texas state chapter. With so many new members coming into the NAIFA Family from the merger with FSP, the NAIFA-Texas board thought it would be a great idea to supplement the orientation that NAIFA holds every week with their "Welcome to Your State Chapter" so that they could tell members all about the history, culture, and activities that make NAIFA-Texas uniquely NAIFA-Texas.

The NAIFA-FSP Resource Center is a benefit available to all NAIFA members and their colleagues in the financial profession. The center is a library of free downloadable content including white papers, webinars, product guides, case studies, industry analysis, and much more, provided by experts and vendors within the insurance industry.

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, was named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential People in Insurance” by CIO Views magazine.

Among his achievements cited by the magazine is Mayeux’s leadership of NAIFA’s transformation into a modern, forward-looking association. Under his guidance, NAIFA has revamped its bylaws and unified as One NAIFA with a strong national presence and revitalized state chapters working together with local chapters to best serve the needs of financial professionals and consumers. He managed this transformation began in 2019 while navigating additional challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

John D. Richardson, RICP, LACP, has received the 2023 President’s Citation from the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) for his extraordinary service to the association.

The NAIFA President’s Citation recognizes an association member who exemplifies NAIFA leadership and has gone above and beyond in their support for NAIFA and the industry. NAIFA’s 2023 President Bryon Holz selected Richardson to receive the President’s Citation to acknowledge his exemplary work in political advocacy and membership recruitment. The award was presented at NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., in December.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Suzanne Carawan is NAIFA’s Vice President, Membership and will lead a newly created department focused on creating exceptional member value and increased engagement in NAIFA’s core areas of advocacy, education, and volunteer leadership. She and her team will develop strategies and implement tactics to deliver NAIFA’s value proposition to an expanded pool of financial professionals that now call NAIFA home due to the recent merger with the Society of Financial Service Professionals.

In this Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP) webinar, Fairway Reverse Mortgage Specialist, George Bain, will explore the challenges today’s retirees face and how they can benefit from the strategic use of a reverse mortgage. The presentation will include a discussion of incorporating home equity into a retirement income strategy, with case study examples and planning scenarios for long-term care and life insurance.

The Society of Financial Service Professionals' annual Institute is January 28-31 in Jacksonville, FL. This is one of the premier professional development events in the financial service industry and NAIFA members are invited to attend. Registration includes high-impact educational sessions and opportunities to earn CE credit. The Institute features opportunities for productive networking and offers a unique environment that inspires collaborative learning.

The final 2023 issue of Advisor Today magazine is now available as a digital edition. All NAIFA members receive the printed edition of Advisor Today as an exclusive member benefit and we make the digital edition available after the print issue release. If you are not a NAIFA member, join us today!

With 39 years of expertise, ReMark excels in providing data intelligence, marketing, and technological solutions. SCOR is a prominent global reinsurance company, and ReMark is a division of SCOR's digital solutions sector. In the previous year, I discussed their Global Consumer Study (GCM) in NAIFA’s AdvisorToday. The latest edition, covering the 2023-2024 period, has been released, encompassing multiple lines of insurance business for Gen Z and Millennials.

As we ring in another new year, this is an exciting, historic time for our association. The American public needs the services of insurance and financial professionals more than ever. You and your fellow NAIFA members help them achieve financial security, prepare for retirement, and create enduring financial legacies. NAIFA with you every step of the way, and 2024 promises to be a great year as we continue with the integration of three iconic brands within our industry – NAIFA, the Society of Financial Service Professionals, and Life Happens.

Joseph Spinelli, CLU, helps people prepare for the future by prioritizing their financial goals and customizing insurance solutions to best suit their needs. With a robust skill set that includes insurance, life insurance, customer service, disability insurance, term life insurance, and more, he contributes valuable insights to the industry. Joseph has a bachelor's degree in economics from Bridgewater College.

With 2023 coming to a close, we look back at our top podcasts from this year. Advisor Today's podcast series has been a source of inspiration and knowledge for the financial services community through deep dives into the strategies, stories, and wisdom of industry leaders. Let's celebrate the voices and insights that have resonated the most with our audience starting at #5

As we wrap up 2023 its the perfect time to revisit the top posts from Advisor Today in 2023 that captured the attention and engaged our readers the most. The Advisor Today Blog brings you the tools, ideas and techniques you need to build and enhance your financial practice. It is the go-to place for insurance and financial advisors who are looking for the latest news and trends that are shaping the insurance and financial-advising industry. Lets begin the countdown with #5.

5. Digital Marketing & AI Technology to Drive Life Insurance & Annuity Sales in 2023
This post explores the transformative impact of digital marketing and AI technology on the life insurance and annuity sectors. It delves into how these innovative strategies are reshaping the way professionals approach sales and client engagement, offering a glimpse into the future of the industry.

NAIFA members, set a reminder! The Q1 State of NAIFA 2024 webinar is happening on January 25th at 12 pm Eastern. Don't miss this first update of the year, as it's a key part of our commitment to keeping you well-informed about our developments and future goals.

John D. Richardson is a financial planner who has been providing sound financial advice to his clients since 2005. His primary focus is to help people align their financial decisions with their values and truths to live enriching lives. As a Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) and a Life and Annuities Certified Professional (LACP), John advises clients on retirement planning, investment planning, and risk management. He serves as a NAIFA leader and has held several leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels.

NAIFA’s Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors of the Society of Financial Service Professionals have both voted unanimously to approve a merger agreement between the two associations. The votes come after the membership of NAIFA and FSP both voted overwhelmingly in favor of the merger earlier this year.

Brian Steiner has recently been named the Executive Director of Life Happens, the consumer education arm of NAIFA. His return to the NAIFA fold (he was NAIFA's Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships from 2015-2021) comes as NAIFA adds Life Happens and completes a merger with the Society of Financial Service Professionals. In an interview for an article in InsuranceNewsNet, Steiner discussed his plans to rejuvenate Life Happens, emphasizing the significance of their national awareness campaigns such as Life Insurance Awareness Month, Insure Your Love Month, and Disability Insurance Awareness Month. These initiatives highlight the importance of life insurance and related products.

NAIFA 2023 President Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, and 2024 President Tom Cothron, LUTCF, FSCP, cut the ribbon on NAIFA's new national headquarters in Arlington, VA, in early December. Also participating in the ceremony were NAIFA Past Presidents Tom Michel, LACP, CLTC, and Larry Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP.

The Department of Labor thinks it knows what's best for Americans preparing for retirement. NAIFA President Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, and his long-time client Chuck Ross think the DOL is wrong and bring their real-life experience to the argument.

NAIFA has formally elected its officers and Board of Trustees at its annual business meeting as part of the National Leadership Conference and Belong awards celebration in Washington, D.C.

More than 250 NAIFA members took to Capitol Hill today to meet with over 200 Congressional offices to advance the need to protect the worker classification of financial service professionals as independent contractors and to provide consumers a variety of choices in financial service professionals. The Day on the Hill was coupled with NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference which serves to train the leaders of state and local chapters in grassroots advocacy.

Chris Carothers is an insurance professional and a Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF). As a second-generation veteran in the insurance industry, he has been serving and advocating for his community for 30 years. Chris works with over 300 licensed insurance agents to help Americans plan for their current and future insurance needs. He also partners with insurance carriers to develop and introduce new health products.

Rith Nou, a dedicated and loyal member of  NAIFA since 2017, serves as a New York Life agent in Waltham, Massachusetts. InsuranceNewsNet magazine interviewed and featured Nou for an article in the magazine. She is deeply committed to aiding her community, especially the Cambodian population in Lowell and surrounding areas, in building secure financial futures. Drawing on her own experiences as a Cambodian immigrant born in a Thai refugee camp, Nou's work is driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with similar backgrounds. She emphasizes the importance of life and disability insurance in building a secure financial foundation. Nou's approach is tailored, aiming to address the unique needs and overcome financial trauma within diverse cultural groups. She is committed to bridging cultural gaps and clarifying misconceptions around financial products, ensuring her clients make informed decisions for their financial well-being.

Mickey Straub is a successful entrepreneur, renowned speaker, accomplished author, devoted patriot, and mayor emeritus. He is passionate about inspiring people to set audacious goals with short deadlines so they can achieve more and regret less. 

With 23 years of experience inspiring organizational success, Mickey provides the necessary resources to implement a goal-oriented, activity-based, and metric-driven performance management system. This system helps individuals and sales teams identify, manage, and measure high-payoff activities, enabling them to achieve their goals and steer their businesses in the right direction.

As part of Long-Term care awareness month our latest spotlight highlights the insights from Tom Riekse’s article on Long-Term Care (LTC) insurance. He breaks down the often overwhelming array of options into manageable choices, guiding through the intricacies of health underwriting, product features, and funding strategies. To get the full breadth of Tom's expertise, read his in-depth article.

November is National Long-Term Care Awareness Month and it is a great time to bring potential limited and extended care planning needs top-of-mind with your clients. It is important for every comprehensive financial plan to include LTC considerations. So even if LTC insurance is not your primary line of business, Long-Term Care Awareness Month gives you a good opportunity to get clients up to speed.

Our partner at Asset+Map is holding an event this week that they're allowing all of our NAIFA members to attend! The innovative fintech event brings together thought leaders to provide product unveils and insights into how companies are innovating in the financial services space. Everyone is invited to attend and learn how agents and advisors are integrating in technology to up their client game and get to the "yes" faster. Tools such as Asset+Map allow advisors to quickly create customized visual diagrams of where the clients' assets are so that comprehensive financial planning can take place more quickly and easily. Being able to show a client's assets in pictorial form allows individuals to feel more confident and make elusive concepts such as "life insurance" or "home equity" money feel more tangible, more "real", and therefore, more in the clients' control to affect. We're proud to partner with Asset+Map and even more excited about that Asset+Map and Carroll Golden, Executive Director, of the Centers of Excellence and author of How Not to Pull Your Family Apart and How Not to Tear Your Family Apart are working together on a new stencil that will be available in the Asset+Map platform to allow advisors to better discuss long-term care and dignified living needs.

When: November 2nd and 3rd 
Time: 12:30 - 5:00 pm eastern
Check out the agenda and note that all registrants receive the recordings post-event so you can still register even after the event. 

Register

As a Financial Security Champion firm, E4 Insurance Services (E4IS) has a long history with NAIFA. It's no wonder that this firm was NAIFA's first Financial Security Champion with so many members of their team volunteering their time with NAIFA. E4IS President and Managing Partner, Dan Peterson, LLIF, LUTCF, FIC, and Vice President of Institutional Accounts, Steven Walker, CLTC, LUTCF, are both past presidents of NAIFA-North Dakota. Walker was also named one of NAIFA's Advisor Today's 4 Under 40 in 2021. Chief Distribution Officer and Managing Partner, Brendon DeRouin, CLU, ChFC, LACP, RICP is a two-time past president of NAIFA-Wisconsin. We are #NAIFA proud to have 50 members of their firm as NAIFA members through our Financial Security Champion program.

The end of 2023 is around the corner and it's vital to be prepped for what 2024 might bring. Who better to guide us than the seasoned leaders from MassMutual Greater Houston? On November 16 at 2 pm eastern, NAIFA is hosting J.K. McAndrews, CLU, the President & CEO, and Lena Allouche, the Chief Growth Officer, in an upcoming NAIFA Live session.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Brian Steiner has rejoined NAIFA as the Executive Director of Life Happens, the consumer arm of the association. Steiner previously served as NAIFA’s Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships from 2015-2021 and most recently as President of United Wealth Advisors Group.

Joseph Schreck, CPFA, President at the Piedmont Group in Atlanta, GA, is the NAIFA Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year for 2023.  

Corey Anderson is an insurance agent specializing in counseling advisors on implementing insurance plans for disabled clients. As an industry leader, Corey is a frequently featured speaker at industry meetings on topics pertaining to disability insurance. He has served on the state and local NAIFA board for over 18 years, holding various roles, including president.

NAIFA congratulates the newly elected Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson and looks forward to working with him on legislative matters that impact the financial security of Americans and the ability of insurance and financial professionals to serve their clients’ best interests.

NAIFA hosted its inaugural regional conference based on its national conference named Apex –  Apex East – October 24 at its association headquarters building in Arlington, VA. Apex East is a regional spin-off of the Apex conference that was launched in August 2022 and will be held again in Arizona in September 2024.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), is pleased to announce the winners of its 2023 4 Under 40 awards: Matthew Cloutier, CRC, RFC, of Golden Wealth Solutions (Osaic) in Littleton, CO, loyal member since 2022; Jennifer Lewis of Wise Medicare Insurance Solutions (United Healthcare) in Rolla, MO, loyal member since 2022; Joseph Spinelli, CLU, FICF, LUTCF, of the Jim Spinelli Agency (Knights of Columbus) in Tallahassee, FL, loyal member since 2009; and Mike Paffhausen, of the Paffhausen Insurance Agency (State Farm) in Butte, MT, loyal member since 2015. 

NAIFA is sad to learn that long-time member Reginald Rabjohns passed away October 19. 

He became a NAIFA member in 1968 and found success at an early age. He became the General Agent for State Mutual and later was the General Agent in Chicago for Allmerica and New England Life. At age 27, Reggie became the youngest Life Member of MDRT. He became MDRT's President in 1999. He was a tremendous speaker and helped motivate and educate financial services audiences in 39 states and 25 countries for MDRT.

Winona Havir, CPCU, CLF, LUTCF, FSS, LACP, AIC, Executive Vice President, Business Development for Educators Insurance Resources Services, Inc. (The Horace Mann Companies), in Saint Paul, MN, has been recognized as the NAIFA Diversity Champion for 2023. 

NAIFA is proud to announce that John A. Davidson, LUTCF, FSS, President and CEO of Davidson Insurance & Financial Services, Inc., in Moorpark, CA, is the 2023 recipient of NAIFA’s Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award.

Dan Finley is an experienced financial advisor and professional coach who founded a business consulting and coaching service dedicated to helping advisors enhance their business. He began his brokerage career in 1993, spent 13-plus years as a successful financial advisor, and since 2004, has conducted over 20,000 hours of individual and group coaching sessions for financial advisors. His financial advisory and coaching experience includes all three major distribution channels: wire-house, bank, and independent.

Dan frequently speaks at branch offices, local chapters of the FPA, NAIFA, and national conferences. He is also the author of 101 Advisor Solutions: A Financial Advisor's Guide to Educate, Motivate, and Inspire!

NAIFA's Chapter Excellence Award (CEA) was launched this year to recognize the success of those Chapters that have excelled in providing a quality member experience to their members, as determined by their Chapter Agreement Compliance, their Chapter Health Rating, and membership growth. Congratulations to this year's Chapter Excellence Award winners! 

Are your small and mid-size business clients having trouble attracting and keeping key employees? Jordan Skog, J.D., CLU, ChFC, CFP, Senior Advanced Market Consultant at Allianz Life, has some great ideas for using Indexed Universal Life products in compensation strategies that are uniquely appealing to highly sought key employees.

Join us on October 19, 2023, for a special NAIFA Live session featuring David O'Malley, the President & CEO of Penn Mutual, and Howard Sharfman, the Senior Managing Director at NFP Solutions, to talk about what 2024 might look like for the industry. The discussion, which starts at 2 PM eastern, will shed light on the possible trends and challenges of the coming year.

Lynne Franklin is a persuasion expert, leadership communication consultant, coach, author, and TEDx speaker. As a neuroscience nerd, she studies how the brain works and how to use the findings to better connect with anyone and lead without manipulation. Since the inception of her communications practice in 1993, Lynne has worked with organizations that want to use persuasive communication skills to increase their performance, productivity, and profits. 

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, told the Biden Administration in a meeting that the Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) current efforts to revive a fiduciary-only regulation for financial professionals is unnecessary and likely to harm low- and middle-income consumers.

John Wheeler is an accomplished Certified Financial Planner (CFP) with a wealth of experience in the financial services industry since 1969. He has earned several impressive designations, including Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC), Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), LACP, and CLTC. In his current role, John supports his firm through seminars, advanced joint sales work, recruiting, and developing financial planning services. He is a highly respected speaker in the financial services industry and has also taught various certification programs such as the CRPC and CFP.

NAIFA’s Committee on Governance has nominated Christopher L. Gandy, LACP, Founder of the Midwest Legacy Group in Lisle, IL, to be the 2024 NAIFA Secretary. A current member of NAIFA’s Board of Trustees, Gandy has been a loyal NAIFA member since 2003. As incoming Secretary, Gandy will be in line to serve as President-Elect in 2025 and President in 2026.

Morris Morrison is a world-class speaker, author, and entertainer who has learned the value of choosing to tell a better story and the power that comes from the stories we live. Drawing purpose and inspiration from his faith, family, and motivation to energize individuals and communities, Morris builds stronger, smarter, and kinder human beings. 

NAIFA and Sales Activity Management, Inc. (SAM) have completed an educational and affinity partnership agreement, under which the popular SAM Planner can be obtained by NAIFA members at a preferred rate. Additionally, Sales Activity Management, Inc. will become a sponsor of NAIFA’s Talent Development Center of Excellence to collaborate on blog posts, webinars, and other tools focused on enhancing individual advisor/agent performance.

Sandra McKeever, AIF, the President and CEO of Asia Pacific Financial Management Group and a loyal NAIFA member since 2014, has been named Chairperson of the University of Guam Board of Regents. She is a Past President of NAIFA-Marianas and also a former board member of the Guam Chamber of Commerce.

NAIFA is saddened by the recent passing of Anne Rigney, JD, CLU, ChFC, who served as the General Counsel at the Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP) and as the Managing Editor of the Journal of Financial Service Professionals, one of the oldest and most prestigious publications in the financial planning field.

NAIFA's Apex East is nearly sold out. You need to act now before you miss out on this amazing event. 

The one-day schedule includes multiple networking breaks where you can build relationships with leading financial, estate planning law, accounting, technology, and performance coaching professionals. This is a pure-play sales summit that will give you ideas and connections to help you grow your business.

Rith Nou, a proud NAIFA member since 2017, has seen the American Dream from both sides: as an immigrant who worked hard to find business success and as an advisor helping others achieve their financial goals.

In the current issue of InsuranceNewsNet magazine, Nou explains, "Our profession pays you well and also allows you to give back in a way that makes you feel aligned. It really has helped me achieve my American dream, but I’m not finished. This profession offers new inspiration and challenges every day."

Richard (Rick) Demko is a licensed life insurance agent who speaks nationally to associations, consumers, and producer groups regarding proper life insurance planning strategies. He holds the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP), Life Underwriting Training Council Fellowship (LUTCF), Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP), and is currently challenging the CFP. Rick was Texas’ fourth Advisor Today national 4 Under 40 recipient, inaugural Texas Young Advisor of the Year, past NAIFA Houston President, and current State Director. 

NAIFA has not been sitting idle as the Department of Labor made moves to propose a new fiduciary rule. In anticipation of the rulemaking, NAIFA helped the National Conference of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) draft a resolution that opposes the DOL's new fiduciary rule as unnecessary and likely harmful to consumers. The resolution, which NCOIL adopted in July after NAIFA testified at the Conference's 2023 Summer Meeting, states: "NCOIL urges the DOL to refrain from further rulemaking that would revive all or parts of the 2016 Fiduciary Rule" and "...urges state legislators and other interested stakeholders to join in opposition to any further rulemaking by DOL reviving the 2016 Fiduciary Rule."

NAIFA Nation is saddened to learn that David J. Reedy, a Past President of NAIFA-New York, has passed away. Reedy joined NAIFA in 1978 and was also a Past President of NAIFA-Buffalo. He was a longtime member of Buffalo Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals and the Million Dollar Round Table.

NAIFA encourages everyone to vote. Our elected officials make decisions that impact everyone's financial security, so it is important for everyone who is eligible to participate in selecting who they are.

NAIFA encourages all insurance and financial professionals to vote in local, state, and federal elections and to encourage others to follow their example. Approximately 63 million Americans who are eligible are not even registered to vote. Encouraging your colleagues, team, and clients to register is a great first step and a way to show your dedication to participating in the democratic process.

Every salesperson has wrestled with the age-old question, “What’s the best way to get referrals?” Depending on how you’ve been trained, you might have a few different ways to answer. Many say “ask” or “ask the right way" or “make sure you’re planting referral seeds along the way to make it easier for someone to provide them to you” but I beg to differ. I have always found that the best way to get referrals is to be referrable. To me, there is only one way to be referrable in our industry: by creating a superior client experience that fosters stark raving fans.

NAIFA Live is back this month, scheduled for September 21st, 2023. This time, we turn our focus to the core pillars of financial planning – professional and personal growth, and achieving unimaginable success. Led by Joey Davenport, CLU, CLF, President & Co-Founder of the Hoopis Performance Network, this event promises to be a game-changer for financial professionals seeking to excel in their careers and lives.

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, a 20-year tradition created and coordinated by NAIFA partner Life Happens and commemorated by the entire life insurance industry, elected officials, and consumers across the country. The goal of LIAM is to put the importance of life insurance front-of-mind for a greater number of Americans and help more people get the coverage they need so their loved ones are protected financially.

NAIFA is saddened to learn that member William John Kalmer of Wauwatosa, WI, passed away August 22, 2023. 

After graduating from Marquette University and serving as a medic in both the Army and Air Force, Kalmer began his 51-year career in the insurance and financial service industry. He was a highly successful agent for Connecticut Mutual, MassMutual, and Partners Financial.

Laurie Adams is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), helping people create financial plans to achieve financial security through investment management, retirement, trust, and planning services. She spent 21 years as a professional education instructor creating and teaching courses to CFP professionals, bank trust officers, CPAs, and insurance license holders. Laurie is a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP), and a long-time NAIFA member and top producer. 

Three best-in-class associations will integrate operations to amplify their impact on advocacy and education for financial service professionals and promote financial wellness for American consumers.

The National Association of Insurance and FinancialAdvisors(NAIFA), the Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP), and Life Happens announced plans to come together as one organization, pending membership approval. The expanded organization will retain all three brands under the NAIFA umbrella and leverage each organization’s strengths to create a greater impact on the industry, financial service professionals, and consumers. The integrated organization aims to empower financial professionals and consumers through world-class advocacy and education. The merger will take place following a vote of the membership of each organization, expected to be early this fall.

 “NAIFA is excited to formally welcome FSP and Life Happens into our family where we collectively can better leverage our unique talents and resources and do more together. FSP will now be able to provide its top-notch education and training to an even broader base of professionals and Life Happens will continue to be the leader in consumer awareness for the importance of life insurance and other risk protection products,” stated Kevin Mayeux, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of NAIFA. “Being able to work together as one organization will expand our reach in the industry, help us better serve financial professionals, and increase the impact we have on helping all Americans have a secure financial future.”

When Priscilla King was an accounting student at Mississippi State University, her first job interview was with an insurance company, but that is not when she joined the industry. After finishing her bachelor’s degree, she pursued an MBA with an emphasis in accounting. While in school, she worked in sales at RadioShack and found she liked talking to people and was very successful in selling wants. When she graduated, she became a store manager. Then, while making a deposit one day in 1997, she ran into the man who eventually recruited her to Shelter Insurance Companies, where she has been ever since.

Brought to you exclusively by NAIFA and the Society of FSP, this essential webinar delves deep into the time-sensitive implications of provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 that are scheduled to sunset by 2025. The panel of industry experts will arm you with strategic insights, ensuring you capitalize on evolving planning opportunities and prepare your clients effectively for the imminent shifts in the tax landscape.

NAIFA is proud to announce Joseph W. Jordan, inspirational speaker, behavioral finance expert, best-selling author, and one of the founders of the Insured Retirement Institute (IRI), is the recipient of the 82nd annual John Newton Russell Memorial Award. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance. The selection committee consists of representatives of the nine leading organizations in the life insurance and financial services industry. Jordan will be celebrated and formally presented the award at NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference and Belong event in Washington, D.C., on December 4.

Nate Wyatt, CFP, always knew he loved numbers, but he also knew he wanted a career helping people. So, in his junior year in college, he switched his major from engineering to finance. He took an internship at a bank and started his career in insurance and financial services right out of college. 

This month's NAIFA Live taking place on the 17th, focuses on two of some of the most critical aspects of financial planning being college funding and retirement savings. Both can significantly impact an individual's financial stability, and navigating these domains requires strategic foresight and guidance.

If it’s Tuesday after business hours, you’ll probably find Jennifer Hodges, LACP, CIC, at the local American Legion post in her regular place at the $10 poker game she’s been a part of for the past five years. But if you ask her about her poker face, she might hesitate.

What is a Modern Elder?

The Modern Elder Academy describes modern elders as people in midlife (45–65) or older who are as curious as they are wise.

“Elderly refers solely to years lived on the planet, while ‘elder’ refers to what we do with those years” – Chip Conley, Author of Wisdom@Work and Co-Founder of The Modern Elder Academy

An agent with Missouri Insurance Advisors, Ryan Mooneyham serves his community in Springfield, Missouri. 

NAIFA's Apex East conference is a pure-play sales summit that brings together high-performing producers and their colleagues in the financial services industry, including professionals in the fields of estate planning law, accounting, financial technology, performance coaching, wellness, and others.

Are you a successful producer, dedicated to your career and committed to providing knowledgeable, ethical client service? Let the world know by getting NAIFA’s Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP) certification.

In the rapidly evolving health insurance sales landscape, efficient process management poses significant challenges for Field Marketing Organizations (FMOs) and Brokerage General Agencies (BGAs). Enrollment, quoting, customer management and engagement, and commissions are handled by disparate platforms that lack communication and may not be tailored to the industry's specific needs.

August is In-District Meetings month at NAIFA.

Every August, Congress recesses, allowing Senators and Representatives to spend a few weeks working from their home states and districts. Things slow to a crawl in our nation’s capital but they really heat up in Congressional districts across the country. It’s an opportunity NAIFA does not pass up.

Danny Mielneczek started his insurance and financial services career recruiting new advisors. After two years, he decided to pivot and became a financial representative with COUNTRY Financial.  

I was reading an analysis the other day and they quoted a study saying a third of entrepreneurs plan on investing more in training, specifically sales, in the economic uncertainty. And we all know that in uncertain times and recession, investing in skills and sales are the best investments possible.

Tom Cothron is an agency manager for a multi-line insurance company offering auto, home, and life insurance products. Tom is a seasoned expert, spending 40-plus years dedicated to the financial services industry. He is a certified Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) and a Financial Services Certified Professional (FSCP). He currently presides as NAIFAs President-Elect.

When Rodney Mogen, DBA, DFP, CRPC, AAMS, LACP, says he fell into a career in insurance and financial services, he means it literally. As a 7’2” college basketball player, Mogen was preparing for a career playing abroad when he injured his right leg coming down from a dunk. Not long after, he learned about the insurance and financial services industry at a career fair and began his career as a financial advisor. 

A study conducted by OneAmerica found that 46% of financial professionals do not recommend long-term care (LTC) protection to their clients.

The study highlights a potential gap in helping clients prepare financially for potential LTC expenses. It is estimated that almost 70% of individuals over the age of 65 will require LTC services at some point in their lives, making LTC protection an important aspect of retirement planning.

NAIFA-MT Past President Mike “Montana Mike” Paffhausen grew up in the insurance industry. His father had a long career as an insurance agent and agency manager and, when the time came to choose a career, Paffhausen chose to make a difference in his community by opening his own State Farm agency.

Iris Nance, LUTCF, got into the insurance and financial services industry because of a postcard.  In 1997, she was working as a Real Estate Finance Credit Analyst at a local bank after more than 10  years as a Bank Examiner with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).  While exploring other career opportunities that would allow quality time with her twin daughters, she received a postcard in the mail from Farmers Insurance, and the rest is history.

The Summer 2023 issue of NAIFA's Advisor Today magazine is here! NAIFA members will receive a copy in the mail soon. For non-members and those who prefer a digital format, the current issue and our back catalog are available online.

Earlier this year, NAIFA conducted its annual membership survey. This year, five randomly selected members who completed the survey received a $100 gift card. We're excited to congratulate the winners:

Harry Hoopis is an entrepreneur and industry leader in the insurance and financial services space who has built a successful firm based in Chicago, IL. He speaks, teaches, and inspires executives, advisors, and front-line salespeople — providing the systems, methods, efficiencies, and confidence needed to excel in the industry. He is the author of the best-selling book, The Road to the Bountiful Life, and recipient of NAIFA's prestigious John Newton Russell Memorial Award. 

After 17 years of working with animals in pet shops, shelters, and zoos, Christian Kalinowski decided it was time for a change. He considered a sales career in a few different sectors before finally settling on insurance and financial services. He wanted to help educate people on a topic he didn’t learn much about growing up—personal finance. So, in 2021, he joined Dipaola Financial Group as a financial service professional.  

Each year ThinkAdvisor shines the spotlight on individuals and firms that are changing the investment advisory industry where it matters most. This year we are #NAIFAproud to have three of our members receiving this recognition! Congratulations to Jamie Hopkins, MBA, CFP, LLM, CLU, ChFC, RICP, Derek Notman, CFP, CLU, LUTCF, and Eric Thomes.

When Aaron Gose, WMCP®, FSCP®, started his career as an engineer, he could tell there was something missing. He loved problem-solving but found he was more curious about how projects were funded rather than how they were designed and built.

Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of spending time with Nick Bowman, CFP, MS, CEP, in New York City at the Insurtech Insights Conference. Previously associated with Lion Street as an Advanced Sales Professional, Nick now serves as the CEO of Motif Insurance, a company that is revolutionizing the future of in-force life insurance. Motif's primary objective is to empower advisors in managing their portfolios by harnessing the potential of data. Nick possesses exceptional expertise in in-force life insurance policies, making him not only a valuable contributor to this article but also the initiator of an important survey. The survey/questionnaire, consisting of just a couple of questions, can be accessed by clicking the link provided at the end of this article.

The Fourth of July, naturally, celebrates our nation’s independence declared in 1776, won through the struggle and sacrifice of the American Revolution, and maintained by generations of Americans throughout the history of the United States. NAIFA joins in this celebration of our country and the freedoms we all enjoy.

For New York Life Agent Vesela Nikay, life insurance is personal. When she was 13 years old, she lost her father to cancer. Her family had to move from their home and Nikay had to move to a new school and make new friends. Protecting families from experiences like hers is why she chose a career in the insurance and financial industry. “I'm very, very passionate about life insurance, and that's what keeps me going,” she says. “If I can protect one more family today and save one more child's future, that's what motivates me.”

The end of June brings a close to this year's National Annuity Awareness Month, but the work NAIFA has done has raised awareness that will last yearlong. We hope you saw our videos on social media featuring NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux and ACLI President and CEO Susan Neely. 

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, is one of eight newly named association executives named to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Association Committee of 100, also known as the C100. Mayeux will represent the interests of NAIFA members within the C100 by building partnerships and seeking common ground with other associations facing similar public policy issues. The C100 works together to "enhance the U.S. Chamber's pro-business advocacy and coalition work and strengthen Chamber efforts to fight for American business," according to a press release issued by the organization.

Scott Blake is a Wealth Management Advisor and Founder at a leading wealth management firm delivering comprehensive planning, investment, and insurance services for individuals, families, and businesses to help them achieve financial success and live rich, rewarding lives. A passionate leader in his community, Scott is a 2022 national winner of Advisor Today’s 4 Under 40 Award and a board member of several organizations in Columbus, Ohio. He is the President of the Columbus chapter of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and has an MBA in finance and financial management services from Capital University. 

NAIFA members, mark your calendars! The Q3 State of NAIFA webinar is scheduled for July 11th at 12 pm eastern. This third update of the year is an integral part of our commitment to keep you informed about our progress and the direction we're heading.

As a music professor for over 20 years, Jill Van Nostrand never imagined a career in insurance and financial services. However, when a family member developed a serious illness, she learned all she could about financial planning. In helping her family navigate the financial strain, she realized she could help others in her community in the same way. In 2018, she became a financial advisor with NAIFA Financial Security Champion Certified Financial Services.

Your ability to master the annuity market has the power to elevate your financial advisory practice to new heights. Keeping abreast of the latest trends and being equipped with effective sales strategies are key factors in succeeding. On this note, we are excited to announce a golden opportunity you wouldn't want to miss!

This week, NAIFA-Colorado hosted its 2023 State Conference. The action-packed program featured inspiring talks from NAIFA President Bryon Holz, INVI MindHealth Founder and CEO Jonathan Wilson, inspirational speaker Corey Ciocchetti, Sales Activity Management, Inc., CEO Mickey Straub, and bestselling author and behavioral finance expert Joe Jordan.

Rith Nou offers her clients products to help meet different insurance and financial needs including college funding, retirement, managing costs for extended care, and income strategies. 

Throughout his career, Todd Gottshall has dedicated himself to helping people. After working as a corrections officer and in property management, he wanted to find a career that would allow him to spend more time with his family and found the right fit at NAIFA 100% Agency Weigner Insurance and Financial Services.  

Craig Garofolo always knew he wanted to be in the insurance and financial services industry. He had the right skill set—it was just a matter of finding the right place. After several years in sales and marketing positions, he found the right opportunity with Guardian in 2011 and started his financial services career. Since then, he has worked with and learned from many of the top professionals in the industry.  

NAIFA Nation mourns the passing of Allen A. Skogebo, CLU, ChFC, a loyal member since 1969, the year he entered the life insurance business. He was the owner of Skogebo Associates in Greenbelt, MD.

Joe Jordan is an inspirational speaker and behavioral finance expert. In 2013, he released his award-winning book Living a Life of Significance, which has sold 90,000-plus copies in five languages. Additionally, Joe is a Founder of the Insured Retirement Institute and was featured on the cover of Life Insurance Selling Magazine. He was also honored by Irish America magazine as one of the “Top 50 Irish Americans on Wall Street.” Before becoming an international speaker, Joe worked in insurance and retired from his role as Senior Vice President at MetLife.

Ameritas Regional Vice President David Murphy decided to go into the insurance and financial services industry while in college. As a quarterback for Holy Cross football team in Worcester, MA, he became interested when the upperclassmen captain of the team went into the industry, but that’s not the only reason he wanted to be a financial services professional. He recalls stretching on the field one day and saying to a teammate, “Your dad’s at practice every day at 3:00, on the sidelines in a three-piece suit and driving a Mercedes. What does he do?” When his friend responded, “He’s in the insurance business,” Murphy paused and replied, “I think that’s what I’m going to do.”

Do you know any college students interested in the insurance and financial services industry? NAIFA's Future Leaders Program is a unique opportunity for college students and recent graduates to get a glimpse into careers in insurance and financial services.

Future Leaders was created to raise awareness about opportunities in the industry and invite more students into the profession. It is presented by NAIFA members who volunteer their time to get the word out about careers in financial services and is an excellent opportunity for students to make connections with industry professionals.

22-year-old Laura Fazzini discovered her passion for helping people at an early age. She grew up watching her father, David Fazzini, LUTCF, co-founder of Premier Planning Group and a loyal NAIFA member since 1991, serving his community and grow his practice. Fazzini had the same desire to make a difference in her community, so she spent her summers during college interning for three companies, gaining valuable experience in several different areas of insurance and financial services. When she graduated, she chose to join her father at Premier Planning Group and has been learning and growing in the industry ever since. 

A new study from the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) shows an increased interest in annuities amid growing economic uncertainty.

The study, which surveyed more than 1,000 Americans between the ages of 45 and 65, found that 54% of respondents are considering “a guaranteed lifetime income product that pays out like a pension.” This trend held among all income brackets, with the greatest interest among minority communities, including Black and Hispanic respondents and those who identified as "other." The survey also found that 91% of respondents would prefer to work with a financial professional who offers products and services that meet their needs.

In a recent article, Susan Neely, President and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI), highlights the growing concern among Americans about their financial security during retirement, given increasing lifespans and economic pressures. The passage of SECURE and SECURE 2.0 aimed to address these concerns by closing savings gaps and expanding retirement security.

In 2002, Lynn Schreder entered the insurance and financial services industry after being laid off from her telecommunications job. She put her problem-solving skills to work and soon found that she loved having a career dedicated to helping people.  

Lawrence (Larry) Holzberg is the Brokerage Director of a single-source wealth management firm providing products and services to help address every aspect of your financial life. Larry’s 20 years of experience in brokerage, advanced sales, and solutions-based advice assists his responsibility in leading the firm’s financial professionals. He is also the Immediate Past President of NAIFA, the only organization representing insurance and financial advisors regardless of the products they sell or the focus of their practice. 

For nearly 50 years, the throughline of Doug Lenhoff's career has been protection. A West Point graduate, Lenhoff spent 15 years in the US Army—including five years in Germany—before making the switch to insurance and financial services. Since then, he’s developed his niche and become an expert in disability insurance. 

LinkedIn can be a powerful platform to help grow and establish your business, as well as get your foot in the door for booking meetings with prospects. However, coming up with an effective and efficient strategy can be hard to establish to make the jump from social media to booking a call.

Discover the secrets to LinkedIn prospecting success in the next Business Performance Center webinar on Wednesday, June 14 at 12 pm eastern. Join the Founder and CEO of NAIFA partner Hummingbird Growth & Automation, Bruno Nicoletti, as he helps you crack the code by unveiling his step-by-step process for booking 15 meetings a month on LinkedIn.

Like many, Chad Horsham, LUTCF^®, CLU^®, ChFC^®, RICP^®, got into the insurance and financial services industry through serendipity. In 2004, he ran into his real estate agent while out on a walk with his dog. When she heard he was looking for a new job, she suggested he look into New York Life Insurance Company. Nineteen years later, he’s a financial advisor through Eagle Strategies, LLC, an insurance agent at New York Life, and owns his own agency, Horsham Financial Group.

NAIFA President Bryon Holz understands as well as anyone how annuity products can fit in holistic financial plans for many of his clients. They are the only product that can provide guaranteed income for life and are often the perfect complement to other planning products.

NAIFA’s 8th Annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Symposium: REPRESENT was a resounding success! With more than 175 participants, the program featured top speakers sharing their experiences with diversity, how to recruit more diverse talent into the insurance and financial services industry, and strategies to reach underserved populations.

The event kicked off with remarks from NAIFA President Bryon Holz, NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, and OneAmerica President of Individual Life and Financial Services (ILFS) Dennis Martin. Martin addressed the ongoing efforts to increase diversity, saying, “DEI is a journey, not a destination.”

It's fitting on the first day of National Annuity Awareness Month for us to recognize the great work done by NAIFA leaders, members, and lobbyists in 37 states that have implemented the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) model for annuity transactions. NAIFA chapters, along with our partners at ACLI, have worked with lawmakers and regulators in the states to get the measures passed.