Tag: Innovation
Unstoppable Ascent: Rod Mims on Athene’s Rise to the Top (Ep. 92)

Unstoppable Ascent: Rod Mims on Athene’s Rise to the Top (Ep. 92)

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From launching a retail annuity business to becoming the leading annuity distributor, Athene’s journey is a masterclass in growth and adaptability.

This week, Jeremy Houser sits down with Rod Mims, EVP and Head of Retail at Athene USA, to explore the strategies and pivotal decisions that fueled their rapid ascent.

This episode pulls back the curtain on technology breakthroughs, the power of people and culture, and the “silver tsunami” driving unprecedented annuity demand. They also dive into what it truly takes to sustain growth while delivering meaningful value to clients and partners.

Rod discusses:

  • The founding story of Athene’s retail business and lessons from scaling up from $10 billion to $36 billion in annual premium
  • The role of technology, especially moving from paper applications to 90% electronic processing and piloting paperless carrier-to-carrier transfers
  • The importance of building strong strategic partnerships and maintaining operational efficiency to support exponential growth
  • The impact of demographic shifts, interest rates, and volatility on the future of the fixed index annuity industry
  • How Athene fosters a high-retention, engaged culture through communication, leadership training, and employee feedback
  • And more!

Connect With Rod Mims

Connect with Jeremy Houser:

About Our Guest:

Rod Mims serves as the Executive Vice President and Head of Retail Sales at Athene USA. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing Athene’s retail annuity business and driving continued growth through the development of strong partnerships.

Mr. Mims joined Athene in 2011 and served as Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager until he assumed his current role, bringing extensive institutional experience and strategic initiative to continue the successful execution of the organization’s growth plans.

Prior to joining Athene, he was the National Sales Manager for Genworth Financial, with responsibility spanning its bank, wirehouse, and independent broker-dealer channels.

Mr. Mims received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, accompanied by a degree in Marketing and Supply Chain Management. He graduated from the GE Management Development Institute- Crotonville and completed Executive Education from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.

About Athene:

Athene is a leading retirement services company that specializes in helping its customers retire with confidence and is a solutions provider to institutions. As a company, Athene is driven to do more and is never satisfied with the status quo. Athene strives to create innovative financial solutions and has a strong team to serve our policyholders and our communities.

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The Entrepreneur Blueprint with Mike Milligan (Ep. 64)

The Entrepreneur Blueprint with Mike Milligan (Ep. 64)

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Adopting innovative ideas and a fresh approach is a great way to transform your financial advisory career. Lets dive into an industry leading Entrepreneurs mindset!

Join Jeremy Houser as he talks with Mike Milligan, the visionary entrepreneur and Certified Financial Planner® behind Ideas by Mike. Together, they touch on the ever-evolving landscape of the financial services industry, sharing insights on thriving in a post-COVID world, leveraging technology for growth, and the importance of adapting to meet clients’ changing needs. Follow along to elevate your practice and create impactful, lasting change within the industry.

Jeremy and Mike discuss: 

  • The transition to offering virtual financial services and the advantages of reaching clients nationwide
  • Strategies for effective entrepreneurship and business growth in the financial sector
  • Embracing financial technology in the virtual world
  • The struggles and perseverance of business owners from being overworked and under-resourced to overcome issues
  • The impact of COVID-19 on the industry and how it has reshaped advisor-client interactions
  • The importance of assembling the right team to foster innovation and improve service
  • And more

 

Resources:

Connect with Mike Milligan:

Book Time with Jeremy Houser: 

Connect with Jeremy Houser:

 

About Our Guest:

Mike Milligan is the CEO of Ideas By Mike. With over 24 years of experience in guiding individuals through the complexities of finance and life, Mike is well-versed in offering support as an advisor, confidant, and mentor. He acknowledges the universal need for assistance and credits his own journey of personal growth and professional success to the invaluable guidance he has received.

Having transformed physical fitness and business acumen, Mike recognizes the power of mentorship and cognitive control in shaping one’s life choices. A lifelong learner, he channels his honed expertise to aid others, drawing from his qualifications in life and health insurance, as well as his CFP® (CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™) and Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) designations.

Mike’s career trajectory spans stints at major financial institutions and boutique investment firms, culminating in the establishment of his own firm nearly a decade ago. His professional ethos centers on being the trusted advisor who prioritizes the best interests of every client. On a personal level, Mike aspires to excel as a devoted father to his three children—Zach, Grace, and Paige—and a supportive husband to his wife, Leigh Ana. The Milligan household is further enriched by the presence of their cherished canine companions, Lady Goos and Lady Luna.

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Mastering Your Mindset with Ricky Kalmon (Ep. 60)

Mastering Your Mindset with Ricky Kalmon (Ep. 60)

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Ready to grow in 2024? Mindset matters.

Join us on the latest installment of the Advisor Mentorship Podcast as Jeremy Houser and special guest Ricky Kalmon delve into the world of mindset mastery. Explore the essential traits of successful sales leaders in 2024 and the importance of differentiation in the advisor space. Discover how mastering your mindset and overcoming limiting beliefs can pave the way for unparalleled success.

Ricky and Jeremy discuss: 

  • The importance of sleep management and stress reduction to optimize performance and well-being
  • The importance of creating and maintaining healthy habits to promote personal growth
  • Business leadership and self-development: How exceptional leaders prioritize self-awareness and continuous improvement to drive success
  • The Ricky Kalman app: Explore how it can revolutionize your mindset, sleep quality, stress management, and overall growth journey
  • And more!

 

Resources: 

Connect With Ricky Kalmon:

Book Time with Jeremy Houser: 

Connect with Jeremy Houser:

 

About Our Guest:

Ricky Kalmon is a mindset expert, motivational speaker, and celebrity hypnotist who delivers high-energy and motivational keynote programs. His programs are inspirational and offer compelling, applicable tools anyone can use in personal and professional development. Kalmon reveals how our mindset can be the greatest tool in achieving new heights, reducing stress, and increasing productivity and potential. 

Ricky Kalmon’s mindset message and techniques will change the way you live, work, and think. Kalmon works with Fortune 500 companies, sales teams, leaders, executives, and sports teams, teaching them how to reinforce their thoughts and beliefs to enhance their results. By creating awareness of your thoughts, Kalmon reveals how to enhance your mindset to eliminate doubt and ignite your positive intentions. 

Through his programs, thousands have changed their world by changing the way they think. In addition, he has made numerous special guest appearances on ESPN, Disney, Hallmark Channel, Fox, FX, E, HLN/CNN, TV Guide and Comedy Central. Ricky Kalmon delivers top rated corporate entertainment and mindset motivational keynote programs for corporate events, meetings and special events.

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