For many Americans, reaching Medicare eligibility marks a noticeable decrease in healthcare spending. Of course, that doesn’t mean that Medicare is free. For financial advisors helping clients prepare for retirement, understanding and planning for the costs associated with Medicare is critical. While these costs are often lower than those incurred through pre-65 health insurance, they remain significant, especially when viewed over a multi-decade retirement.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) has appointed Dan Peterson, LLIF, LUTCF, FIC, President and Managing Partner for E4 Insurance Services, to the Industry Leadership Board (ILB).

Wayne McCullough didn’t plan on spending five decades in the insurance and financial services industry. In fact, he thought it would be a quick stop on his way back to college. But what began as a six-month detour became a lifelong career—one rich with relationships, professional growth, and meaningful impact.

When it comes to retirement planning, financial expertise alone isn’t enough. Today’s clients are looking for more than just numbers. They want guidance that speaks to their goals, fears, and vision for the future. Building trust and addressing the emotional side of retirement decisions can be just as important as crafting tax-efficient strategies.

Grace Staten is a seasoned marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. She has led comprehensive initiatives in branding, digital strategy, public relations, and advisor development, significantly enhancing organizational growth and visibility. Grace holds a MBA in finance from San Jose State University, FSCP designation, and multiple FINRA licenses. A passionate advocate for women in finance, she serves as National President of the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance and was named a Top 50 Woman Leader in Finance for 2025 by Women We Admire.

NAIFA members, mark your calendars for June 26th at 12 pm Eastern for the Q3 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.

Juli McNeely, CFP, CLU, LUTCF, is a seasoned financial services professional with over 25 years of experience. Through her consulting work and speaking engagements, she continues to empower financial professionals to define success on their own terms and excel in their careers. In 2014, Juli made history as the first female president of NAIFA. She is also the accomplished author of No Necktie Needed: A Woman’s Guide to Success in Financial Services, which offers insights into achieving a balanced and fulfilling career in the industry.

The NAIFA National Grassroots Committee proudly recognizes Brian Fleming of NAIFA-Minnesota as the recipient of the Q1 2025 Hard Hat Award for his exceptional advocacy leadership and unwavering dedication to our industry.

Brian played a pivotal role in organizing NAIFA-MN’s grassroots mobilization during the early fight against House File 2437, legislation that proposed a sales tax on a range of professional services—including financial planning, insurance commissions, legal services, and even CPA services.

Please join us in congratulating Paul Szkotak, our Q1 Hard Hat Award winner in the Membership category!

As a dedicated member of the National Membership Committee, Paul has invested countless hours into enhancing NAIFA’s new member onboarding experience. His thoughtful input and strategic vision have laid the groundwork for a refreshed and more impactful welcome process—one that ensures new members feel connected, informed, and valued from day one.

NAIFA is proud to recognize Joseph Orr of NAIFA-Texas as the Q1 recipient of the Hard Hat Award in the PAC category - an honor reserved for outstanding champions of political advocacy. Known for his magnetic leadership and heartfelt commitment to NAIFA’s mission, Joseph was instrumental in the success of the NAIFA-TX Centennial Celebration, helping drive over $12,000 in PAC contributions.