Agents, producers, and advisors across the country — let’s face it, we are in a time of upheaval, uncertainty, and volatility in the equity markets. I know I might sound like a broken record — my recent commentaries have circled around this same theme — but the reality is this: Middle America needs our help now more than ever. 

People are anxious. They’re watching their 401(k)s and IRAs get battered by market swings. They’re seeing headlines about tariffs and wondering what it all means for their future. And while the market tumbles, we stand strong with guarantees. Clients are looking for safety. They’re looking for income they can count on. They’re looking for someone to trust — and that someone is you. 

Fixed-indexed annuities are shining right now. Interest rates are high. Our products are offering tremendous opportunities for growth without market risk. And when you pair that with a volatile stock market and an uncertain economic outlook, it’s clear — the stars are aligning. 
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We, the Safe Money Places agents, are finally in the spotlight. And in a time like this, we look like the hero. So be the hero. Pick up the phone. Reach out to those clients who said, “I want to wait until the market comes back.” You and I both know — now is the time. They’re probably already panicking and calling their current advisors. Be the calm in the storm. ​

​At the Ohlson Group, we give you the tools to win. When you work with Ohlson Group,  you’re part of the Safe Money Places agent network, you’re backed by a brand that builds trust. You can proudly display that badge on your website — because it means something. It means you’re aligned with professionals who specialize in helping retirees and pre-retirees secure their future. 

So, if you’ve got a prospect, and you’re not quite sure what to do — call us. Email us. Whether it’s a tricky case, a big case, or just someone you’re not sure how to approach, we’re here to help. Let’s make this the moment where you step up for your clients and step into your role as their financial hero. Strike while the iron’s hot. Make hay while the sun is shining. 

Give us a call today — let’s go to work. 

If you’ve ever struggled to distinguish between wants and needs, you are not alone. Sometimes we want something so intensely it feels like a need. Similarly, we may actually need something that we have dismissed as a want. For example, we may think that taking some time off work is a frivolous want and not something we should dedicate too much of our headspace to. In reality, we may be barreling towards burnout if we don’t give ourselves a break. 

It isn’t always easy to tell the difference between a need and a want or to identify the value in satisfying our needs and wants. However, understanding our needs and wants better can help us to improve our financial health and well-being. 

Anyone considering life insurance will face two challenges, how much do they need and how do they fit this want within their budget. 

Each stage of life has different needs to protect, as the illustration below shows, but how does one protect today’s needs and prepare for tomorrows? 

Life insurance is generally more affordable than most people realize. But trying to buy a life policy that will cover all the needs for an entire life would probably exceed current budget available today. How does one address those needs in a cost-effective and budget-friendly way? 

A balanced solution that uses both temporary and permanent insurance

Rather than make one policy do everything, combining two different types of policy may be a more effective and cost-efficient solution.  

• Temporary, or term, insurance provides affordable coverage for a set period of time. 
• Permanent insurance provides coverage for long-term or lifelong needs. Additional features can help provide greater flexibility in how you can use it. 

The benefit of balancing temporary and permanent insurance

Using both types of policy can address challenges concerning coverage and budget: 

• You have greater protection only while you need it. 
• You’re not paying for what you don’t need. 

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Permanent insurance can provide a base of protection, while term insurance acts as a supplement during times of greater need. A balanced solution addresses immediate and future needs without delaying the purchase of permanent insurance. 

Advantages of a balanced approach:

• Combining term and permanent policies is less expensive: Blending term and permanent coverage is generally less expensive than buying a permanent policy alone for the same amount of coverage, or buying a new term policy later in life. 
• Reducing costs: Both types of insurance are usually less expensive the younger, and healthier a person is when they purchase them. Buying one policy first, and then another later, generally, means one will pay more for the second than if they’d bought both at the same time because waiting until one is older will increase the costs. 
• Locking in coverage: Insurability is “locked in” with the permanent coverage. If health declines, valuable life insurance protection remains in place at a time when the cost of a new policy may be prohibitive or they could be unable to qualify for a new policy at all.. 
• Ease of conversion: If one needs more permanent insurance at a later time, they might be able to convert part or all of your term coverage to permanent, without another medical exam. 
• Supplemental Income: Some permanent policies, in addition to the death benefit, potentially accumulate cash value, which can be used to supplement income, and in most cases on income tax free basis.  

Work with The Ohlson Group and Levon Justice to find the right type and amount of life insurance for your client's needs. Together, we can find the right balance for your client's life insurance needs.

In today’s fast-paced financial world, where big-name brokerage firms and high-profile investment advisors dominate the airwaves and screen time, one question lingers in the independent insurance agent’s mind now more than ever before: “Who are you?” 

For the independent annuity producer, the answer needs to be more than just a name on a business card. Clients and prospects are being courted daily by firms with deep pockets and national name recognition. It’s not enough to be great at what you do—you need to be seen as great. That’s where the Safe Money Places Agent Network, backed by The Ohlson Group, comes into play. As you are likely aware we own and operate www.safemoneyplaces.com.  

When an agent submits their first piece of business with the Ohlson Group, they’re automatically enrolled into the Safe Money Places Agent Network—a nationally recognized brand that brings credibility, authority, and marketing horsepower to your independent practice. 

First, it means you get your own Safe Money Places-themed website at no cost. This isn’t some empty shell of a site either. It’s packed with consumer-facing videos, downloadable PDF guides, your professional bio, and most importantly—the “Proud Member of the Safe Money Places Agent Network” badge, clearly showcasing your membership in this exclusive and trusted network. 

Just like independent real estate agents lean on powerhouse brands like Century 21, RE/MAX, or Berkshire Hathaway, you too can align yourself with a respected name that opens doors and builds trust. And in the annuity business, trust is everything. 

Being part of the Safe Money Places network isn’t just about image. It’s about resources. We offer prospecting tools, an annuity lead program, and a marketing framework that all tie back to the strength of the Safe Money Places brand. It becomes your anchor point in conversations with clients who are already familiar with big names and looking for confidence in the person sitting across the table from them. 

The Safe Money Places name tells your prospects, "I’m not just out here on my own—I’m backed by a network that stands for consumer education, transparency, and financial safety." 

So, the next time someone asks you, “Who are you?” —you’ll have a powerful answer. You’re an independent annuity producer with a national brand behind you. You’re part of something bigger. You’re a Safe Money Places agent. And that means something. 

The stock market is rocky, to say the least. Since the beginning of the year, we’ve seen some serious volatility in the markets. One week it's up, the next week it drops, and the uncertainty continues to rattle clients who are nearing or in retirement. The S&P 500 has had its moments of growth, but it's also been on a rollercoaster ride with dips and swings that make even the most seasoned investors nervous. 

And that’s where YOU come in. 

You have access to something most advisors don’t: Safe Money Products offered through The Ohlson Group that can shield your clients from the storm. While the market shakes and rattles, FIA’s offer shelter--principal protection, market-linked growth potential, and guaranteed income for life. That’s something your clients not only want right now... they need it. 

You should feel confident in what you offer. Because when you sit down with a client, you’re not just pitching a product—you’re delivering peace of mind. You’re giving retirees a way to secure the nest egg they’ve worked a lifetime to build. And with features like chronic illness benefits that double their guaranteed income if the unexpected happens, you’re providing real value in times of real need. 

Let’s talk about timing. The current rate environment? Incredible. These are the golden days of the annuity world. A few years from now, we’re going to look back and say, “Wow… those were the good old days.” So what do we do when the sun’s shining? That’s right—make hay. 

At The Ohlson Group, we’ve got more than just top-tier products. We’ve got your marketing engine: the Safe Money Places Agent Network. When you submit a piece of business through us, you get access to: 

• A FREE custom website 
• Lead generation tools 
• Professional branding 
• And the prestigious Safe Money Places badge on your emails 

That badge sets you apart. It shows clients you’re not just another independent agent—you’re a Safe Money Places expert. You’re part of a movement. And all it takes to join? Just submit a piece of annuity business. That’s it. 

The outlook for fixed indexed annuities for the rest of this year? Strong. Promising. And full of opportunity. Clients are looking for answers, and you’ve got the right tools in your toolkit. 

So stay encouraged. Keep going. Remember: every “no” is just one step closer to a “yes.” Persevere. Push forward. The people you help today will thank you tomorrow. 

Submit a case. Join the network. And let’s make this your best year yet!

​In today’s market, uncertainty is the only certainty. The stock market continues to experience wild swings, with the Volatility Index (VIX) spiking in recent days, a flashing red blinker indicating investor fear. With the equity markets fluctuating unpredictably, clients are searching for stability—something to shield their hard-earned assets from devastating losses. Many have memories of 2008-2009 and can sense the headwinds coming. Strike now while the iron is hot – these cap rates, cap lock guarantee features and high premium bonuses will not last forever. This is why I feel we are entering an exciting moment in the FIA industry.

As you know, we have that shield clients are looking for. FIAs provide clients with a safe harbor from market losses and volatility while offering guaranteed lifetime income, safe  accumulation, and even long-term care-like benefits. In this climate, annuities aren’t just an option—they are the solution for many. Particularly those who’ve been overlooked by investment advisors who only work with clients who’ve got $1M of AUM. There are hundreds of thousands of hard-working folks who are looking for a lifeline and captain to navigate them through this potential storm. You, the agent, have the tools and products to help. And working with the Ohlson Group, you will find the best marketers, back office and digital marketing team in the industry.

• Guaranteed Cap & Participation Rates – Contractually locked in year after year, ensuring clients receive the same caps or participation rates they started with. No surprises, no reductions.
• High Premium Bonuses – We have top-tier income and accumulation value bonuses from leading carriers, helping clients maximize their annuity value.
• Income Doublers on Income Riders – Provide a hedge against LTC costs and peace of mind for future health care needs

In summation, we are in a golden era for annuity sales. It’s a rare moment when:

• Interest rates on indexed and fixed annuity products are at all-time highs
• Equity market volatility is soaring, increasing investor fears of a market crash
• Clients are actively searching for financial security and protection – especially those overlooked as discussed above.

Our marketers are standing by ready for action – give us a call or book an appointment. One of our marketing directors can help you with case design, lead generation (internal annuity lead program) and discuss the benefits of being a member of The Safe Money Places Agent Network. Let’s make it a banner year – and thanks for your support!

For insurance agents looking to provide their clients with more than just traditional life insurance protection, Indexed Universal Life (IUL) offers a unique combination of benefits. Beyond the death benefit, IUL policies provide tax-advantaged cash value accumulation, income potential, and living benefits like long-term care (LTC) riders. 

At Ohlson Group, we specialize in helping agents structure and present IUL solutions tailored to their clients’ needs. Whether you’re new to selling IUL or looking to refine your approach, our Life Insurance Director, Levon Justice, and our experienced team are here to help. 

IUL is more than just life insurance—it’s an asset. Unlike term policies that only provide a death benefit, IUL allows policyholders to: 

• Build Cash Value with Market-Linked Growth – IUL policy cash values track stock market indices (like the S&P 500), giving clients the opportunity to grow their cash value without direct market risk. Gains are locked in, and with floor protection, policyholders never lose value due to a market downturn. 
• Tax-Advantaged Growth and Income – The cash value inside an IUL policy grows tax-deferred, and if structured correctly, policyholders can access this money tax-free through policy loans and withdrawals. This makes IUL an excellent source of supplemental retirement income. 
• Living Benefits - More Than Just a Death Benefit – Many IUL policies come with built-in or optional long-term care (LTC) and chronic illness riders. These allow clients to access a portion of their death benefit to cover LTC expenses—an increasingly important feature given rising healthcare cost. 
• ​Flexible Premiums and Protection – Unlike whole life insurance, IUL policies offer premium flexibility, allowing policyholders to adjust contributions over time based on their financial situation. 

One of the biggest selling points of IUL is its potential to create a tax-free income stream in retirement. By leveraging the tax-free loan provisions built into these policies, clients can supplement their retirement without increasing their taxable income—helping them avoid higher tax brackets, Social Security taxation, and Medicare surcharges. 

Compared to other retirement savings vehicles like 401(k)s and IRAs, IUL offers: 

• No contribution limits (unlike qualified retirement plans) 
• No required minimum distributions (RMDs) 
• Tax-free income potential 
• Market-linked growth without downside risk 

At the Ohlson Group, we work closely with agents to structure Indexed Universal Life cases that sell. Whether your client is looking for tax-free retirement income, legacy planning, or living benefits, we can help tailor a policy that meets their needs. 
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• Levon Justice, our Life Insurance Director, brings years of experience in designing IUL solutions and helping agents close cases. 
• We work with multiple top-rated carriers, ensuring you have access to the best IUL products on the market. 
• Need help with other life insurance cases? We assist with all types of life insurance sales, from term and whole life to advanced estate planning solutions. 

Selling Indexed Universal Life is not just about offering life insurance—it’s about helping clients create a financial asset that provides protection, growth, and tax-efficient income. At the Ohlson Group, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. 

Contact us today to discuss your next IUL case and see how Levon Justice and our team can help you succeed. Whether it’s an IUL strategy or any other life insurance need, we have the expertise and support to help you grow your business.   

In today’s interest rate environment, financial professionals are searching for ways to protect their clients' assets while still offering growth potential. With bond markets facing volatility and traditional fixed-income yields remaining uncertain, fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) have emerged as a great alternative. 

As we all know, unlike traditional bonds, FIAs offer principal protection, tax-deferred growth, and the ability to participate in market upside without the risk of market losses. This combination makes FIAs an attractive solution for clients seeking stability, growth, and guaranteed income options, particularly as we navigate the ever-changing economic landscape. 

Traditionally, bonds have been a go-to asset for conservative investors, offering steady income and lower risk. However, in today’s economic climate, bonds carry interest rate risk—when rates rise, bond values fall. Additionally, bond yields have struggled to keep pace with inflation, leaving investors searching for alternative solutions that can provide both protection and reasonable returns. 

FIAs, by contrast, provide a unique advantage: 

• Principal Protection – Unlike bonds, which can lose value as interest rates rise, FIAs guarantee that the initial premium will not decline due to market downturns. 
• Market-Linked Growth – Clients earn interest based on the performance of an underlying index, such as the S&P 500, while avoiding market losses. 
• Tax-Deferred Growth – FIAs allow clients to grow their money tax-deferred. 
• Guaranteed Lifetime Income Options – Many FIAs offer income riders that can provide a predictable income stream in retirement, something bonds cannot always guarantee. Plus, many FIAs offer chronic-illness features that can help cover long-term care related costs. 

​Finding the right FIA to fit your clients’ needs can be overwhelming, given the variety of products and features available. That’s where Ohlson Group comes in. Nick and Joe Ohlson have been helping agents find product solutions for over 20 years and our marketing team is well-versed in the annuity and life insurance marketplace. 

With interest rates in flux and market uncertainty persisting, fixed indexed annuities are an excellent bond alternative for clients seeking growth potential with downside protection. Whether you're looking for better product options, expert guidance, or a lead generation program, Ohlson Group is here to help. 

Contact the Ohlson Group today with case details!

​In today’s unpredictable market, insurance agents specializing in annuities have a unique opportunity to provide clients with a powerful solution: Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB) Riders, also known as Lifetime Income Riders. These riders not only offer guaranteed income but also provide higher payout potential than traditional investment strategies—without the risk of market downturns. 

For years, financial advisors have relied on the 4% withdrawal rule, a strategy that assumes retirees can safely withdraw 4% of their portfolio annually without running out of money. However, in a volatile market, this rule is shaky at best. Market declines can quickly deplete a retiree’s assets, forcing them to either reduce withdrawals or risk outliving their savings. 

With annuities featuring Lifetime Income Riders, your clients don’t have to gamble on market performance. Instead, they receive contractually guaranteed income for life, regardless of economic conditions. Unlike traditional investments that require clients to self-manage withdrawals, annuities guarantee exact payout numbers, ensuring peace of mind for retirees who need reliable income. 

One of the biggest advantages of annuities with Lifetime Income Riders is the ability to offer higher income than traditional investment strategies. Many advisors use a safe withdrawal rate of 3-4%, but annuities can provide 5% or more, depending on age and product selection. This means: 

• More income without market risk 
• Predictability in a volatile economy 
• No fear of outliving retirement funds 

By locking in higher payouts, clients can enjoy their retirement without the anxiety of stock market fluctuations. 

At The Ohlson Group, we specialize in helping insurance agents put together strong, competitive annuity cases. Whether you’re looking for the best product for a specific client or need marketing support to grow your annuity business, Nick Ohlson, Joe Ohlson, and our experienced team are here to assist you. 

We provide: 

• Product recommendations to maximize client benefits 
• Case design support to position annuities effectively 
• Sales and marketing tools to help you close more business 
• Access to top-rated carriers offering competitive income riders 

With our expertise, you’ll be able to confidently present annuity solutions that outperform traditional investment strategies. 

​In a market where uncertainty is the norm, Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit Riders provide security, predictability, and higher income payouts. Unlike traditional investments that leave retirees at the mercy of market swings, annuities guarantee their income for life. 

Partner with Nick Olson, Joe Olson, and The Ohlson Group marketing team to bring these powerful solutions to your clients. Let’s grow your annuity business together! 

Want to learn more? Contact The Ohlson Group today and start putting together your next successful annuity case! 

For annuity producers, one of the most challenging parts of the sales process is simply getting a prospect on the phone. Leads may express interest in learning more about their retirement options, but life gets busy—and answering an unexpected call isn't always a priority. If you’re finding it difficult to connect with leads, you’re not alone. Fortunately, with a thoughtful approach and strategic outreach, you can increase your chances of landing that crucial first appointment. 

Here are practical strategies to help you work your leads better and overcome the phone connection hurdle. 

It’s important to be persistent—without crossing the line into being pushy. Data shows that multiple follow-up attempts dramatically improve the chances of making contact with a lead. 

Suggested Call Schedule: 

• Call 2 to 3 times per week for the first two weeks. 
• Vary the time of day for your calls (morning, mid-afternoon, or early evening) to increase the chance of catching the lead at a convenient time. 
• If there’s no response after two weeks, reduce your attempts to once a week for the following month. 

Persistence signals professionalism and genuine interest—not desperation—when done respectfully. 

The objective of the initial call isn’t to close a sale. Instead, focus on building rapport and setting a time for a more in-depth conversation. 

What to Say: 

• Start by introducing yourself and your reason for calling. 

• Keep it brief and personal: “Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Company Name]. You recently requested some information about retirement strategies, and I’d love to schedule a time to chat and answer any questions you have.” 

• Offer a simple call-to-action: “What does your schedule look like this week for a quick 15-minute conversation?” 

Remember--you’re not selling the product on this call; you’re selling the appointment. ​

Many leads won’t answer on the first call. Leaving a warm and professional voicemail can encourage them to return your call. 

Voicemail Script: 
“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Company Name]. You recently expressed interest in learning more about retirement strategies, and I wanted to personally follow up. I’ll try reaching you again soon, but feel free to call or text me at [Phone Number] if that’s easier for you. Looking forward to connecting!” 

Keep it short, friendly, and actionable. Avoid overwhelming them with too much information. 

Emails can reinforce your phone outreach and give leads a way to respond on their own time. 

Email Template: 
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Subject Line: Quick Follow-Up to Your Retirement Inquiry 

Body: 
Hi [Name], 
I wanted to follow up on your recent interest in retirement strategies. I’d love to schedule a quick call to answer your questions and share some insights tailored to your situation. 
What does your schedule look like this week for a 15-minute conversation? 
Feel free to reply to this email or call/text me directly at [Phone Number]. 
Looking forward to connecting, 
[Your Name] 
[Your Title/Company Name] 

Texting is an increasingly effective way to reach leads who may not respond to calls or emails. 

Text Message Example: 
“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company Name]. Just following up on your request for retirement info. When would be a good time for a quick call? Feel free to text me back if that’s easier!” 

Texts should always be short, respectful, and easy to respond to. 

Personalization shows the lead that you’re genuinely interested in their unique situation. Use any available information from the lead form to tailor your outreach. 

For example: If the lead mentioned they’re nearing retirement, acknowledge that in your messaging: “Many clients I work with are navigating the transition from work to retirement, and I’d love to share some strategies that might benefit you.” 

It’s easy to feel discouraged when calls go unanswered, but persistence pays off. Studies show that it can take 5 to 8 contact attempts before reaching a decision-maker. Stay consistent, professional, and optimistic. 

By following these strategies—and balancing persistence with respect—you can increase your chances of connecting with leads, building relationships, and ultimately helping more clients secure their financial future. 

Happy calling, and good luck landing those appointments! 

​As an agent in the competitive world of retirement planning, it’s essential to have a diverse toolbox of products to meet the varying needs of your clients. One product that has consistently stood out for its unique combination of growth potential and protection is the Fixed Index Annuity (FIA). This article will explore the benefits, features, and key selling points of FIAs to help you confidently present them to your clients.

​A Fixed Index Annuity is a type of insurance product designed to provide a reliable income stream in retirement while offering the opportunity for growth linked to the performance of a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. Unlike variable annuities, FIAs protect your client’s principal from market downturns, making them an attractive option for risk-averse individuals.

​When discussing FIAs, some clients may raise concerns.

​Here are ways to address common objections:

1. “What if the market does really well? Won’t I miss out?” While FIAs have caps or participation rates, they provide a balanced approach: clients gain from market upswings while avoiding losses in downturns. Highlight the peace of mind this balance offers.
2. “Aren’t annuities too complicated?” Break down the product’s features in simple terms and focus on how it aligns with their goals. Use clear examples to demonstrate how the interest credits work.
3. “What about liquidity?” Emphasize the availability of penalty-free withdrawals (typically up to 10% annually) and discuss how FIAs fit as part of a diversified portfolio, not the entire strategy.

Fixed Index Annuities offer a unique combination of safety, growth potential, and income stability that can appeal to a broad range of clients. By understanding their needs and presenting the benefits of FIAs in a clear and relatable way, you can position yourself as a trusted advisor and help them achieve their retirement goals.
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Remember, your role isn’t just to sell a product—it’s to provide solutions that improve your clients’ financial well-being. With Fixed Index Annuities, you’re offering a product that brings peace of mind and security for the future.