National Life Group’s Leadership Development Recognized by DDI

Addison, Tx., - (Jan. 7, 2026) Development Dimensions International (DDI) recently highlighted National Life Group’s leadership and development work in an article featuring critical insights by Dr. Wendi Walker-Schmidt, AVP of Learning and Organizational Development for National Life Group.

The piece entitled, “National Life Group proves that innovation starts with leadership alignment,” is included on DDI’s website. The article identifies a crucial opportunity to strengthen alignment by creating consistent leadership expectations across all levels of the organization.

“It is essential that organizations align their language, otherwise people tend to talk past each other,” explained Walker-Schmidt. “By creating the same language patterns, communication and trust are built more quickly. This lends itself to leaders being stronger coaches, thereby increasing the engagement and execution within their teams.”

The results of this work are significant. As featured in the article, 78% of leaders reported higher team productivity. Engagement rose as global benchmarks dropped by 33%. And turnover fell to a mere 10%, below the industry average.

About National Life Group

National Life Group has been keeping promises since 1848, providing access to flexible, secure life insurance and annuities for families, businesses, educators, and first responders nationwide. With an independent, entrepreneurial spirit, our values are to “Do good, Be good, Make good” for our customers, agents, employees, and the communities we serve Learn more at NationalLife.com

About Equity Services, Inc. (ESI)

Founded in 1968, Equity Services Inc. (ESI) is a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser committed to advisor growth, client confidence, and lasting partnership. Backed by the strength of 175+ year-old mutual company National Life Insurance Company, ESI offers a flexible affiliation model, access to industry-leading solutions, and a strong, independent platform for financial professionals nationwide. We believe relationships are the foundation of this industry and are committed to delivering a personal and exceptional advisor experience.

Contact: Beth Rusnock, corporate communications, National Life Group, 802-522-4067.

National Life Group® is a trade name of National Life Insurance Company (NLIC), Montpelier, VT founded in 1848, Life Insurance Company of the Southwest (LSW), Addison, TX chartered in 1955, and its affiliates. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. LSW is not an authorized insurer in New York and does not conduct insurance business in New York. NLIC, the flagship of National Life Group was founded in 1848, and all references to 1848 are attributable to NLIC.

Products are issued by National Life Insurance Company and Life Insurance Company of the Southwest.